EXCURSIONS BY CITYVISION
It is a place to revisit grace and elegance, imagination and craftsmanship. A place to revisit passion. All in the heart of Mountain Brook Village.
METRO BIRMINGHAM
This is Lane Parke.
METRO BIRMINGHAM
INSIDE:
Charm revisited. Enchantment revisited. Authenticity revisited.
BARBER VINTAGE MOTORSPORTS MUSEUM EXPANDS ITS SPACE AND RECORD-SETTING COLLECTION
TRADITIONS REVISITED VISIT US ON THE WEB AT LANEPARKE.INFO
A’ MANO
B. PRINCE
CHARBAR NO. 7
P2 PLATINUM PILATES WESTERN MARKET
THE LOCAL TACO
REVELATOR COFFEE
GRAND BOHEMIAN HOTEL MOUNTAIN BROOK OPENING SPRING 2018:
MIDICI
TULIPANO
SWOOP
8TH EDITION
KINNUCAN’S SPECIALTY OUTFITTERS
DINING SHOPPING ATTRACTIONS NIGHT LIFE RECREATION OUTDOORS AND MUCH MORE
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L i v e a nd d i n e w i t h o u t r e g r e t. C o LLe C t me m o r i e s , n o t t h i n g s . s av o r B i r mi ng h a m o n e Bi t e at a t i m e .
2300 Woodcrest Place at the embassy suites birmingham 205.879.9995 For menus & additional information, visit RuthsChris.net
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR & PUBLISHER
WELCOME TO BIRMINGHAM!
Recently, the citizens of Birmingham elected a new mayor, the first new mayor in more than a decade, and with his election came a sense of renewed progress for our city. Restaurateurs continue to open new concepts and thrive and the world is taking notice. A host of internationally-known magazines, news organizations and websites have shined a big spotlight on Birmingham for the progress it is making and for the tremendous foodie scene that continues to grow and impress. We are fortunate to feature many of those restaurants, both new and seasoned, in this edition. Please take time to explore the wide and varied restaurant options we present to you in this edition. Our feature story this edition showcases the amazing Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. This museum houses a Guinness World Record number of motorcycles and cars in a newly expanded facility that will leave you in awe whether you are a motorcycle or car buff or someone who simply appreciates the history and artistry of innovation. Be sure to set aside some time during your visit to meander through this incredible facility locally known as “Motorcycle Heaven.” Special thanks goes to Kelly Stewart for writing the article and directing the photo shoot for the cover. My sincerest appreciation goes to the many advertisers who believe in the power and reach of this publication. I strongly encourage you to assist me in thanking them by visiting their places of business and letting them know that EXCURSIONS led you to their doors. In case you haven’t noticed, I love this city. I’ve been here most of life and I’m proud to be one of its many ambassadors. Also, it takes a small village of us to make these publications available to you. The folks on my team are as dedicated as I am to bringing forth the best that Metro Birmingham offers to travelers and I’m truly grateful for them. EXCURSIONSGO.com is our mobile-friendly website for this publication. Take advantage of the new EXCURSIONS mobile profile pages we created for each of our advertisers. It puts all pertinent information at your fingertips and provides up-to-date information by displaying their current Facebook posts and more. We also maintain a robust calendar of events so you can find something fun to do while you’re here and discover many reasons to return over and over. Safe travels and many returns,
Brent Boyd @bb_shoots
GO. DO. ENJOY. REPEAT.
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EDITOR & PUBLISHER
Brent Boyd brent@cityvision.tv
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Myra Sawyer myra@excursionsgo.com COPY EDITOR
Rachel Davis
EXCURSIONSGO.COM EDITOR
Amy Balentine
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Heather Adams Kelly Stewart
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brent Boyd David R. Donaldson Benjamin N. Smith Jeffrey Rease CONTRIBUTING GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Kara Sparks
@excursionsbycityvision @excursionsgo Please leave this copy of EXCURSIONS in this room for the next reader to enjoy. EXCURSIONS is a registered service mark and is published by CityVision, Inc. 4415 3rd Ave. S, Birmingham, AL 35222 205.595.0809; www.cityvision.tv Copyright 2018-19 by CityVision, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without express written permission of CityVision, Inc. For information on display rates or media kits, please email brent@cityvision.tv or visit our website at cityvision.tv. Copies of this book may be purchased for $20 plus shipping and handling by contacting the publisher at 205.595.0809. A limited number of back issues are also available for purchase. See our website for publication archives.
DESTINATIONS
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CONTENTS
6 One Man’s Vision
Local businessman’s lifelong passion turned world-class collection and top local attraction.
10 Getting Your Bearings
Maps showing where all major cities, neighborhoods, entertinment districts and major landmarks are located.
12 Explore Lane Parke and the
Villages of Mountain Brook
Lane Parke and the Villages of Mountain Brook offer walkable villages and entertainment districts full of charm and style.
16 Your Special Invitation to
Visit Homewood, Alabama
Birmingham’s nearest neighbor to the south is known for its boutique shopping and cozy eateries.
20 Entertainment Districts Birmingham’s historic urban areas provide a stunning backdrop for modern entertainement.
36 Retail Therapy
Here’s where to treat yourself to something special.
40 Beauty & Wellness
Take some time to pamper yourself while you’re here.
42 Main Attractions
The Birmingham Metro area offers a broad range of attractions worth getting out of your hotel room.
52 Performing Arts
No longer an industrial giant, Birmingham’s new “magic” is in the thriving arts community.
56 Welcome to Foodie Paradise
There’s good reason why Birmingham consistently lands at the top of all the best lists for culinary pleasures...enjoy!
78 Discover a World of Food at
The Pizitz Food Hall
Birmingham’s newest hot spot for all things food.
72 Local Nightlife
From cocktails, karaoke and vape lounges to live music, craft beer and late night dancing, you’ll find your perfect spot.
80 Annual Events
From art exhibits, parades, music festivals and football to bass fishing, NASCAR and motocross, Birmingham has something for adults and children alike every month of the year.
ON THE COVER
A small preview of the multi-story and expansive recently renovated Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
THIS PAGE
Photography by Brent Boyd
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PHOTO:
Birmingham’s clever use of lighting transforms the viaducts connecting southside to downtown.
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COVERING THESE ALABAMA CITIES
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Aerial view of Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and Barber Motorsports Park..
6 EXCURSIONS
COVERSTORY
Floor to ceiling windows flank most of the museum’s interior..
ONE MAN’S VISION LOCAL BUSINESSMAN’S LIFELONG PASSION TURNED WORLD-CLASS COLLECTION AND TOP LOCAL ATTRACTION b y K E L LY S T E W A R T
P
repare to be amazed when you enter the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, a destination many refer to as “Motorcycle Heaven.” The stunning five-story museum is home to the largest collection of motorcycles in the world according to Guinness World Records. With more than 1,600 motorcycles, 55 vintage Lotus cars, a variety of eclectic machines and a 2.38-mile racetrack, the Barber Museum is truly a motorsports paradise. Located at the 880-acre Barber Motorsports Park, the 228,650-square-foot Barber Museum has motorcycle and car exhibits on each of its five floors. Floor-to-ceiling windows flank most of the building’s perimeter. To help keep its vehicles in running condition, the museum has an active restoration area that is visible to guests from each level. The museum’s motorcycle collection spans more than 100 years of production, offering interesting insights into the evolution of engineering over time. You’ll see examples of some of the oldest motorcycles in the world, such as a model of an 1867 Roper Steam Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
Velocipede, as well as the museum’s oldest running motorcycle, the 1902 Steffey. There are Harley-Davidsons, Hondas and Indians on exhibit alongside less familiar makes, like Showa, DSK and Cagiva. The museum also has rare motorcycles like the 1996 Britten V1000, which is one of only 10 ever built. With such a diverse collection, you may even see an example of the very first motorcycle you ever rode. The Barber Museum has a notable history. The dream that ultimately became today’s Barber Museum began back in 1988 in an old warehouse on the Southside of Birmingham. There, Birmingham native and former Porsche racer George Barber began collecting motorcycles, starting off with a trio of Honda V-Fours, followed by a rare 1952 Victoria Bergmeister. As Barber’s interest and passion for motorcycles continued to grow, so did his outstanding collection. In 1995, after establishing the Barber Museum as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit foundation, Barber donated his burgeoning motorcycle collection to the museum and then opened it to the public. In 2003, when the collection exceeded the square footage EXCURSIONS 7
The park features a spectacular waterfall, lakes, pedestrian bridges, art and sculptures..
of its original Southside home, it made the move to its current location at Barber Motorsports Park. Even before the museum opened the doors of its current location, worldrenowned track designer Alan Wilson had been brought on to create a world-class, 16-turn road course behind it. Having such a road course accessible is important to the Barber Museum as it allows restoration staff to demonstrate, test and exercise vehicles in the collection. The road course also offers the opportunity for major races, such as the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama, to take place right here in Birmingham. When you compare it to other motorsports venues, Barber Motorsports Park is extraordinary. Considering that it is indeed a comprehensive and highly technical motorsports facility, many first time visitors to the museum and park are surprised by its vastness and natural beauty. Consequently, Barber Motorsports Park is also proud to have become a special destination for garden clubs who take scheduled tours aboard open-air trams throughout the year. During race events at the park, ticket holders are afforded great liberty when it comes to choosing the perfect 8 EXCURSIONS
spot from which to watch. Rather than have permanent grandstands, Barber Motorsports Park was designed to provide people with the very best views from its many grassy hillsides, shaded areas, and lightly-treed spaces. Other noteworthy features of the park include gorgeous lakes, beautiful art and sculptures, pedestrian bridges, and a spectacular 20-foot waterfall. Of the total 880 acres that make up Barber Motorsports Park, about 400 acres remain untouched forest. This creates a dramatic landscape and a natural sound buffer. While the Barber Museum is open most days of the year, the racetrack and other various areas of Barber Motorsports Park are open to spectators only during certain scheduled events. However, because the track is used regularly, there are ample opportunities to see a variety of different motorsports activities taking place from inside the museum. In addition to the Barber Museum using the track to demonstrate, test and exercise vehicles in its collection, the Porsche Sport Driving School uses the track to provide its participants introductory level and advanced driving courses. Zoom Motorsports manages the many weekend events that take
place in the park, on the track and at the Barber Proving Grounds, as well as major annual racing events like the Barber Vintage Festival, which draw fans from around the world to The Magic City of Birmingham. 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway Birmingham, AL 35094 205.699.7275 barbermuseum.org @barbermuseum Museum Hours: April 1–September 30 Monday–Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 6 p.m. October 1–March 31 Monday–Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m. Closed Major Holidays See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
COVERSTORY
A rare Britten V1000 attempts to tame the Barber road course—a sight to see.
The collection includes 55 Lotus and other rare cars.
The museum boasts 228,650 square feet of motorcycles and cars on exhibit..
The world-class road course, which preceded the museum, was designed by Alan Wilson.
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EXCURSIONS 9
LOCALMAPS
UPTOWN
11th Ave N
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9th Ave N Birmingham Museumof Art
DOWNTOWN Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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LOCALMAPS
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BIRMINGHAM MOUNTAIN BROOK
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BESSEMER
VESTAVIA HILLS
Getting Your Bearings
IRONDALE
59
LEEDS
459
Easy to read maps to help you find your bearings. Please leave the book behind for the next reader to enjoy!
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CAHABA HEIGHTS
HOOVER
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CHELSEA
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Map not to scale
Oak Mountain State Park
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Cobb Lane Bed & Breakfast
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Hassinger Daniels Masion Bed & Breakfast
The Westin
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The Redmont
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Courtyard by Marriott
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EXCURSIONS 11
V I S I T M O U N TA I N B R O O K
Shades Creek Mill House Mountain Brook, Alabama Built in 1926, the Old Mill remains a symbol of the City of Mountain Brook and is depicted in the city’s official seal. Source: waymarking.com .
Photograph by JEFFREY REASE
Explore the villages of
MOUNTAIN BROOK, ALABAMA JUST SOUTH OF RED MOUNTAIN LIES THE CITY OF MOUNTAIN BROOK. Mountain Brook is a suburb of Birmingham situated just
“over the mountain” from downtown. A short drive, but a different world in terms of the atmosphere and appearance. It’s probably one of the most notable small cities in America due to its high median income, lush tree-lined streets and magnificent homes. Mountain Brook is also home to some of the most unique shops in the metro area, packaged together in areas that feel like little towns or villages. These three distinct villages, English Village, Crestline Village and Mountain Brook Village, each offer easy parking and walkable merchant areas reminiscent of a bygone era before department stores and malls came into existence. Lane Parke is the newest development in Mountain Brook Village, but 12 EXCURSIONS
the architecture remains true to the old world styling that defines it yet different and worthy of investigating. Each village has its own flair, great variety of locally-owned specialty retailers, fine and casual eateries and night spots. When exploring Mountain Brook, one should travel the winding roads that connect village to village and enjoy the tremendous views of the private country club golf courses, spectacular homes and brilliantly manicured landscapes. The villages are perfect for strolling from store to store and exploring the many shops and eateries. Mountain Brook is also notable for a host of celebrities including Sara Evans, Fannie Flagg, Kate Jackson, Courteney Cox and former Green Bay Packers quarterback, Bart Starr.
V I S I T M O U N TA I N B R O O K
a’mano 281 Rele Street 205.871.9093 amanogifts.com a’mano is a lifestyle gallery situated in the new Lane Parke development next to the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Mountain Brook Village. Whether you’re shopping for a perfect gift, home goods, dining ware, stylish accessories, hilarious cards, paper goods, kids’ items and clothing, coffee table books, bridal gifts or unique art, this gem in the heart of Mountain Brook is known as the go-to spot for charming, unique finds and brands like: Tina Frey Designs, Mignonne Gavigan, Orbix Hot Glass, Rebecca Wood pottery, Jonathan Adler and much more. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
B Prince 271 Rele Street 205.871.1965 shopbprince.com B. Prince is an upscale apparel, shoe and accessory boutique located in Mountain Brook, Alabama. For 35 years B. Prince (formerly Betsy Prince) has set the standard for high fashion in the Southeast. The store owner, Bezshan, regularly travels to Paris and New York in search of unique designs. Our dedicated team of sales associates specialize in an individual approach to fashion and strive to provide exemplary customer service. Be Beautiful! B. Prince! View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Road 205.879.0409 birminghamzoo.com Located within a short walking distance to Mountain Brook Village, The Grand Bohemian Hotel and Lane Parke, the Birmingham Zoo is an ever-evolving adventure with approximately 900 animals of 230 species. Visitors come from around the Southeast to experience the Wildlife Show, Predator Zone, Giraffe Feedings and the Sea Lion Show. With new features such as a jaguar and howler monkeys, the Birmingham Zoo is the perfect place to make memories to last a lifetime. Open daily from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission required. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
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V I S I T M O U N TA I N B R O O K
R&R Wine & Liquor 81 Church Street, Suite 102 205.848.2080 Fully stocked with wines, champagnes, beers and liquors from near and far, R&R will have exactly what you seek. Join them upstairs for complementary wine-tastings every Thursday from 5 - 7 p.m. and they offer light hors d’oeurvres that pair nicely with the featured wines. Visit Crestline Village in Mountain Brook and stop by R&R Wine & Liquor and discover something new! See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
DENOTES LANE PARKE LOCATION The shopping and entertainment areas are primarily located in Lane Parke, Mountain Brook Village, Crestline Village and English Village.
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V I S I T M O U N TA I N B R O O K
MAFIAoZA’S Pizzeria & Neighborhood Pub 2 Dexter Drive 205.414.7878 mafiaozas.com MAFIAoZA’S is a neighborhood pizzeria and pub, providing great 1920s New York Italian food and great service. They have an awesome kid-friendly environment, an extensive award-winning wine
Grille 29 971 Brookwood Village 205.783.1295 grille29.com/birmingham Located near Mountain Brook Village in the Brookwood Village shopping complex is one of Birmingham’s most celebrated restaurants, Grille 29. The unique round dining room boasts a full bar, formal dining room and private dining. They also have a patio for dining under the stars.
See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
The menu offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, prime steaks and everything in between. Open for lunch, dinner and brunch all weekend, Grille 29 is the perfect location for a business lunch or a private event. Conveniently located near most hotels in Mountain Brook and Homewood, Grille 29 is popular with visitors and locals alike. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
MISS DOTS 49 Church Street 205.739.2232 lovemissdots.com Home of deliciously addictive chicken. MISS DOTS took shape around a picnic table in the cool shade of a sawtooth oak tree in southeast Alabama. Named in honor of an amazing lady and friend, MISS DOTS is a place where friends and families share the simple pleasures of well-cooked meals. On the menu at MISS DOTS, you’ll find southern fried chicken and hot fried chicken with a host of traditional southern sides Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
list and great specials all week. They are known for serving the finest stone-oven pizza in the southeast, as well as a wide variety of dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. And as they say at MAFIAoZA’S, “you’re gonna love it...or else!
including mac ‘n cheese, collard greens, squash casserole and rice ‘n gravy. On the lighter side, MISS DOTS also offers grilled and flat-top roasted chicken. These can be enjoyed with various salads including Greek and Crunchy Kale. But if you really want a true southern experience, you must try the Mac Stack (pictured)— crispy fried, amazingly tender chicken breast topped with mac ‘n cheese, pickles and ranch dressing. Finish that with a slice of homemade pecan pie and you’re set! See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com EXCURSIONS 15
VISITHOMEWOOD
Your Special Invitation to
LOCATED JUST MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM,
Homewood offers the area’s premier shopping and dining experience. We invite you to make a day out of exploring our beloved city, from shopping the original boutiques, bakeries and gift shops offering home décor and more on 18th Street, to grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many Edgewood eateries. While you’re here, be sure to take a tour of Samford University, Homewood Chamber of Commerce 7 Hollywood Boulevard, Homewood, Alabama 35209 205.871.5631 homewoodchamber.org
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the highest ranked university in the state of Alabama. Discover why Homewood has been named one of the best places to raise a family as you spend time in one of our many greenspaces, from Patriot Park to the Lakeshore Trail. For more information about Homewood, a list of community events and a directory of local member businesses, please visit homewoodchamber.org. We can’t wait to see you soon! Hours of Operation: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday - Friday View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
PHOTOS: HOMEWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
VISIT HOMEWOOD, ALABAMA
VISITHOMEWOOD
Lucky Cat Rolled Creams 2908 18th Street South 205.407.4500 luckycatrolledcreams.com There’s nothing more exciting than a fresh idea. Except maybe ice cream, so, these folks combined the two. Lucky Cat Rolled Creams is a fresh spin on a classic treat. Rolls of ice cream are packed into a cup and topped with any imaginable extra, from standards like Mexican chocolate sauce and strawberries to twists like cardamom and honey. Their hand-rolled ice
Market Table 1830 29th Avenue South 205.769.6080 market-table.com Market Table brings joy back to the table with scrumptious breakfast and lunch menus served in their café. They also offer delicious prepared meals, meal kits and a variety of proteins and sides for dinner. In their market, you’ll find wine, desserts and
cream is made by pouring a creamy mixture on a cold steel pan, mixing in toppings with metal spatulas, and then rolling the ice cream into neat little rolls. This process allows them to control the quality of their ingredients. You won’t see ingredients you can’t pronounce. They go easy on the sugar and up the tasty fruit and other goodness to give you the freshest, most delicious ice cream you’ve ever had. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
snacks to fulfill any and all cravings. Order online, dine in or stop by for a freshly prepared meal to take with you. The menu ranges from paleofriendly breakfast options to salads and sandwiches for lunch. Pair any of these with a wine from their impressive wine selection. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
Hemline 1802 29th Avenue South 205.802.9252 shophemline.com Hemline is a contemporary women’s clothing, shoes and accessories boutique with nearly 30 stores across the southeast. Established in New Orleans in 1994 with over 200 celebrated lines carried company-wide, Hemline provides high-quality, unique merchandise to the fashionforward woman seeking showstopping looks season after season. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 17
VISITHOMEWOOD
Escape Day Spa 100 Broadway Street 205.414.6062 theplacetoescape.com Escape Day Spa, located in the Edgewood neighborhood, is a full service salon and spa. The professionals at Escape truly believe in the power of healing through touch and meditation. They incorporate many modalities during each therapeutic session to create the ultimate experience of deep relaxation combined with physical healing. Make your appointment today View their profile in the Beauty & Wellness section for details.
Homewood Park is the hub for social life in Homewood. The park hosts events and provides a beautiful space for families to enjoy time in the outdoors.
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VISITHOMEWOOD
Alabama Goods 2933 18th Street South 205.803.3900 alabamagoods.com Alabama Goods has the largest selection of Alabama made items anywhere. At Alabama Goods, you will find an impressive selection of art, jewelry, pottery, candles, soaps, leather goods, ornaments, t-shirts and gourmet food—all
Ruth’s Chris Steak House 2300 Woodcrest Place 205.879.9995 ruthschris.net Featuring custom-aged, USDA prime steaks, served with the signature sizzle and legendary hospitality, Ruth’s Chris Steak House has been a favorite Homewood dining destination for more than two decades. Start your unforgettable dining experience with the refreshing crab stack appetizer, featuring colossal lump blue crab, avocado, mango and cucumber. For your entree,
View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more photos and information.
indulge in one of their impressive bone-in steaks or treat yourself to a tried and true favorite—the perfectly cooked filet. Complete your meal with a handcrafted cocktail or a selection from their nationallyacclaimed wine cellar, as you enjoy the elegant ambiance of a dining room that exudes old-world charm. Perfect for group gatherings and romantic evenings alike. See their profile in the dining section for more information on private dining and events at Ruth’s Chris.
Soho Social 1830 29th Avenue South 205.423.8080 sohosocial.bar Soho Social is a communitybased bar and grill centered around the needs and wants of Homewood, Alabama. They offer unique spins on American classics; familiar, yet fresh at the same time. The menu ranges from salads, wings and latin-inspired dishes like empanadas and duck totchos to a wide variety of unique burgers, smoked hangar steak and fresh fish. Weekly specials include Monday Wine and Tacos and Tuesday Beers and Burgers Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
crafted in Alabama! You will be impressed with Alabama’s talented artists and crafters. This is the store where you can find souvenirs that will be appreciated and treasured. Open Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Find them on Facebook @AlabamaGoods.
with a special menu prepared specifically for those days. Their focus on fantastic food, laid back, friendly and sincere service along with distinctive drinks with unique style has earned Soho Social top-of-list status for places to go for both locals and visitors. See their profile in the dining section for more information and their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for additional photos and more.
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Live music venues have increased in number in just a short period of time throughout the metro area. Photograph by Brent Boyd
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Entertainment Districts Birmingham’s historic urban areas and neighborhoods provide a stunning backdrop for modern entertainment.
H
idden in some of Birmingham’s most historic districts are its most modern, trendy locales that attract locals and tourists with their unique offerings. Five Points South is known as the original entertainment district to those who live here. Recently, however, as more people are moving into the city center, areas like Lakeview and Avondale are also becoming destinations for locals and visitors. The most recent addition to the entertainment scene is the Uptown Entertainment District. Situated near the Westin Hotel
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and The Sheraton Hotel, Uptown is designed for a New Orleansstyle experience with a closed street at night. The Avondale, Crestwood and Lakeview neighborhoods have recently surged in growth in both residential and commercial development. Downtown and the 2nd Avenue District continue to offer more and more places to dine, drink, socialize and live. Regardless of where you are staying while visiting, you are close to one of these areas and the businesses located in them are awaiting your presence.
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AV O N D A L E E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Historic Avondale This historic Birmingham neighborhood tops the charts among the most popular destinations for locals and visitors for great food and fun times.
A
recent multi-million dollar public-private effort to completely renovate historic Avondale Park spurred young entrepreneurs in Birmingham into action to begin reclaiming and reinvigorating a landmark Birmingham neighborhood. Parkside and Saw’s Soul Kitchen were the first bar and restaurant to move in, Saw’s has garnered recognition of its own for their delectable creations and melt-in-your-mouth barbecue. Pioneering this neighborhood makeover was a refurbished office space and then a brewery. But not just any brewery in the eyes of those who live here—Avondale Brewing Company is now also one of the most frequented event locations around. Garden & Gun and Southern Living have both done several articles and mentions about this neighborhood, the brewery and the other businesses that are moving into this area like 41st Street Pub & Aircraft Sales. Avondale’s landscape continues to transform with the addition of a live music venue, Saturn and its space-movies themed coffee shop and bar, Satellite attached. Tropicaleo, which specializes in
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authentic Puerto Rican dishes; Post Office Pies, which specializes in wood-fired oven pizzas; Avondale Common House, which specializes in southern foods with an Asian flair; Wasabi Juan’s, which specializes in Asian-Mexican fusion dishes; and Melt, which specializes in gourmet cheese melts rounds out the restaurant scene,along with newcomers Taco Morro Loco, which offers authentic Mexican food at their new location and Big Spoon Creamery, which makes the best local ice cream around. You can shop here, too. Winslet & Rhys offers unique gifts and accessories, Avondale Antiques offers unique finds and Mountain High Outfitters offers the latest in outdoor wear and accessories for those with adventurous lifestyles. One of the newest, most unique things to do in Avondale is to step into Hot Diggity Dog, enter the Tardis phone booth and pick up the phone. If you know the password, you are then permitted to enter The Marble Ring, a 1920s-inspired speakeasy. This is the neighborhood to keep your eye on and to visit every time you’re in town. It is guaranteed something will be new and exciting here every time you visit.
AV O N D A L E E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Tropicaleo 4426 4th Avenue South 205.643.5956 tropicaleo.com Tropicaleo is a fast-casual Puerto Rican restaurant that focuses on serving authentic dishes made with the freshest local ingredients. It started as a pop-up shop and grew into Birmingham’s only Puerto Rican restaurant that provides vegan, paleo and gluten-free options (try their gluten-free Jibarito or Mofongo).
Tropicaleo is the greatest food concept to debut in Birmingham this century; it’s like traveling to a Caribbean Island for dinner. Instead of the regular meat and potato for lunch or dinner, visit Tropicaleo for real Puerto Rican food made with flavor and authentic Puerto Rican flair! See their profile in the dining section for more information.
Post Office Pies 209 41st Street South 205.599.9900 postofficepies.com Post Office Pies, located in what was once a functioning post office, features delicious wood-fired pizza, pasta, fresh salads with full service bar featuring hand crafted drinks, wide beer selection, quality wine list and out-of-this-world lemonade program. Brought to life by a collaboration between SAW’s Soul Kitchen owners Mike
SAW’s Soul Kitchen
PHOTO: (MIDDLE) LINDSEY DRENNAN; (RIGHT) BRENT BOYD
215 41st Street South 205.591.1409 sawsbbq.com The “no fuss-no muss” atmosphere at SAW’s Soul Kitchen is what keeps customers clambering into this small, cozy place in record numbers since its opening in May 2012. Like its sister restaurants SAW’S BBQ and SAW’S Juke Joint, this location features smoked pork and chicken with their famous red and white sauces. What allows this location to differ from the others is Chef Brandon Cain’s take on
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Wilson and Brandon Cain and expert chef John Hall, Post Office Pies is the perfect combination of mouthwatering, hand-tossed pizzas cooked to perfection in woodfired brick ovens and unique salad creations using local and seasonal ingredients. The dining hall tables are perfect for large groups or you can have your meal and your favorite beverage at the bar. See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
traditional barbecue. With the creation of dishes like the Pork ‘n Greens-smoked pork on top of a bed of cheese grits and turnip greens, topped with onion rings (pictured), smoked wings in white sauce, Sweet Tea Fried Chicken Sandwich, 8 oz. handcrafted burgers layered to perfection with all of the freshest trimmings and a variety of fresh side items, patrons understand that this is “food for the soul” in their first bite. See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
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SPOTLIGHT
T
here’s nothing better than good stories told over great beer. That’s why at Avondale Brewing Company they’ve named all their beers after the folklore of Avondale. They craft their brews with the same unique character and style as the stories they’re named after. Avondale Brewing is a locally-owned and operated brewery in the heart of the Birmingham. ABC is dedicated to the community and you’ll find that everything they do is about giving back and building up Birmingham. Please visit them and enjoy the fruits of their labor. As they like to say, “Trunks Up!”
THE TAPROOM 16 inside taps! Come by the brewery for beers in the taproom
and see them at work crafting delicious brews. They’re open every day for sampling of their latest and greatest handcrafted beverages. SPECIAL EVENTS, LIVE MUSIC AND FESTIVALS Avondale Brewing
Company is the perfect place for any special event you have. Their spacious upper story is complete with its own bar and is accessible from its own stairwell for privacy and convenience. Perfect for a wedding, company meeting or formal gathering. Their large outdoor patio and stage is host to weekly live music as well as annual music and food festivals. Check the schedule to see what they’ve got going on!
201 41st Street South; 205.777.5456 AvondaleBrewingCompany avondalebrewing.com
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A FEW OF OUR FLAGSHIP BREWS SPRING STREET SAISON A Belgianstyle farmhouse ale. The Saison is the flagship brew that helped spawn the formation of Avondale Brewing Co. One sip and you will fall in love. BATTLEFIELD INDIA PALE ALE A new twist on an American IPA. A hoppy citrus and floral nose invites you to experience the perfectly balanced IPA. The natural bouquet of their hop blend and malt gives this IPA a victory all its own. VANILLAPHANT PORTER A superb vanilla porter; an ale which is surprisingly light bodied for its robust flavor and has all the chocolate and roasted nut flavors you would expect in a porter but with a special vanilla twist at the end. MISS FANCY’S TRIPEL A strong Belgian golden ale rich in flavor and alcohol. The use of malts, traditional hops, a proprietary yeast blend and Belgian candi sugar creates a very special beer named after a very special elephant.
PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY
AV O N D A L E E N T E R TA I N M E N T
The Sour Room at Avondale 4120 3rd Avenue South 205.203.4546 avondalebrewing.com American sour beer is a growing trend across the United States. Sour beer is traditional Belgium-inspired beer made with wild yeast strains to achieve the sour flavors; a technique used centuries ago to create the unique sour beer. The Sour Room is where Avondale Brewing Company’s brewmasters showcase their
kettle sours and barrel-aged selections of funky and sour wild ales. The Sour Room always has 12 different flavors on tap and a friendly, knowledgeable staff to help you with your sour beer experience. The cozy patio offers the perfect setting for sampling the latest sour creations while enjoying a great view of Birmingham’s magnificent sunsets. See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
Avondale Common House 4100 3rd Avenue South 205.703.9895 avondalecommonhouse.com Local couple turned restaurateurs, Chef Willum Rogers and his wife Ellen, started Avondale Common House to extend their passions for good food and impeccable service. The couple, who met and married while training under several local chefs, pride themselves on the relationships they’ve built over the years with vendors, farmers and farmers markets. Their main
Little Savannah (Forest Park)
PHOTO: (MIDDLE) LINDSEY DRENNAN; (RIGHT) BRENT BOYD
3811 Clairmont Avenue South 205.591.1119 littlesavannah.com Welcome to Little Savannah Restaurant & Bar in Historic Forest Park. At this cozy southern bistro, nightly remedies to life’s hustle are offered the southern way! Chef Clifton Holt will make sure your experience is as though you have come to his own home. Savor their specialty cocktails, peruse the hand-selected wines from their award-winning wine list and you will find what makes Little Savannah the highlight of your trip to Birmingham; Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
focus is amazingly fresh, seasonal and sustainable food with an emphasis on the local produce and seafood Alabama and the South have to offer. Avondale Common House offers catering services for all sorts of events. Join them on Sundays for brunch and a Bloody Mary bar with a full bar, wine and champagne. Look for their second location in Trussville, Alabama in Spring 2019. See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
Chef Clif ’s amazing fusion of southern ingredients incorporated with flavors from around the world. Every week Chef Clif finds the freshest ingredients, some from the local farmer’s markets, some he picks right from the farm, fresh herbs and Tommy Toe tomatoes from his back-of-the-house garden. “Knowing where your food comes from” is most important to the secrets of Little Savannah’s cuisine. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
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C R E S T W O O D E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Crestwood
C
restwood Park is the anchor of this neighborhood and recently enjoyed a multi-million dollar renovation that now includes walking paths, an off-leash area for pets, a swimming pool, new state-of-the-art playground, tennis courts, a pavilion with open fire place, sports field for soccer and football and a trickling brook that runs the center of it all. Residents of Crestwood have witnessed a major revitalization in both housing and commercial development. Local business owners are thriving in the Crestwood Center located just next door to the beautifully landscaped park. 26 EXCURSIONS
Small businesses like Crestwood Tavern have been operating for many years and provided a springboard for other businesses to open and thrive here. More recently, Seasick Records, Boxcar Vape and The Filling Station have taken up residence in Crestwood Center. Urban Suburban not only provides a cornucopia of items ranging from antiques to rare collectibles, but also serves as a meeting spot for many neighborhood events and fundraisers for local charities each year. Crestwood Coffee has been a mainstay here for many years now, too. Stop in for fresh cup of coffee and peruse the antiques booths next door. They’ll all welcome you warmly.
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This historic Birmingham neighborhood is filling up with a new generation of families who wish to be near the urban scenes and city center.
C R E S T W O O D E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Urban Suburban Antiques 5514 Crestwood Blvd. 205.592.0777 urbansuburbanantiques.com Urban Suburban Antiques is located in the Crestwood area and is often called the best antique shop in Birmingham by patrons. The location offers a variety of items sure to please the antique shopper in any family, from furniture to
knick-knacks and more. Many one-of-a-kind-items found in stock and inventory changes often. With more than 12,000 square feet of shopping space and over 60 dealers, you’re sure to find a car load of treasures to take home with you. See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information
The Filling Station Pizza Cafe & Bar 5524 Crestwood Blvd. 205.592.3455 The Filling Station is a former gas station that serves pizza, pasta and other Italian favorites. The menu is also well-rounded in the traditional fare department with an Italian flare, offering burgers, fresh salads and three different flavors of chicken wings.
The full bar offers more than 20 beers on tap. The beer offerings include favorites from local breweries, as wells traditional favorites and specialties. Enjoy the game on one of their many HDTVs or lounge out on the expansive patio and enjoy the weather. Be sure to get a selfie with their vintage gas station pump, too. See profile in the dining section for more information.
Crestwood Tavern
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5500 Crestwood Blvd. 205.510.0053 Crestwood Tavern is a friendly neighborhood bar located in the heart of the Crestwood neighborhood of Birmingham. They offer traditional pub fare, delicious drinks, a patio and entertainment to residents and visitors alike. The paninis, pizza, traditional appetizers, fully-stocked bar and live music make it a daily favorite with locals. Visit their Facebook page for more information and to view their menu.
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L A K E V I E W E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Historic Lakeview Birmingham’s most eclectic entertainment district with influences from around the globe Oasis
Oasis is well-known for the amazing talent of professional musicians on their stage; some of whom have become household names like Taylor Hicks. With live music every night, an Oasis guest may find anything from full rock-androll bands to intimate singersongwriters to funky duos They also provide professional dart boards that are free to play and drink specials 7 days a week. See their profile in the nightlife section for more information. 28 EXCURSIONS
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2807 7th Avenue South 205.323.5538 oasisbar.com
L A K E V I E W E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Cantina Tortilla Grill 2901 2nd Avenue South, Ste. 110 205.323.6980 cantinabirmingham.com Cantina Tortilla Grill has been a local favorite, serving up made-fresh-daily Mexican food in a laid back, fun atmosphere for over 12 years. The dining room in the Martin Biscuit Co. location is the perfect space to unwind and catch the game. The expansive outdoor patio is perfect for small gatherings or meeting friends and clients for lunch or dinner. From a lighter fare of appetizers or specialty tacos to a larger meal of enchiladas, quesadillas or one of the
other specialty dishes, such as Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia, Nachitos or Churrasco Steak, Cantina Tortilla is certain to have something that will appeal to you. Sides such as Saffron Rice, Sweet Potato Chips, Garlic Home Fries and Frijol De La Olla pair perfectly with the main menu items to create a dinner experience unlike other places in the city. Join them Monday through Friday for Happy Hour 3-6 p.m. And join them at the bar for a front row view of the game. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
Lou’s Pub & Package Store 726 29th Street South 205.322.7005 louspub.com Esquire magazine named Lou’s Pub one of the “100 Best Bars in America!” Lou’s Pub & Package Store, celebrating 31 years, is Birmingham’s most unique boutique dive bar with a “Cheers” feel and they are also a package store! Loved by all who enter, Lou’s Pub is known for its diverse clientele and colorful bartenders. Although the
bar’s namesake, Louis Zaden, has had his “last call,” for the past nine years the proprietor, Michael Carpri, has kept old traditions alive and well— service matters! “Sit down, shut up and drink!” The staff here says, “the only time you should get out of your seat is to pee or greet a friend.” With a full line of quality high-end spirits, there’s so many reasons to “Meet at Lou’s!” See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
Tin Roof
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2709 7th Avenue South 205.323.4356 tinroofbirmingham.com Tin Roof is located in the Lakeview neighborhood, Birmingham’s most exciting entertainment district! Featuring live music and southern inspired ‘Better Than Bar Food,’ Tin Roof is the place to be from lunch to late night! Check out TinRoofBirmingham.com for all the latest. See ya at the Roof! See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information. Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
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L A K E V I E W E N T E R TA I N M E N T
SideBar 2929 7th Avenue South 205.224.4410 sidebarsocial.com SideBar is the hottest spot in the most thriving entertainment district of Birmingham. Whether you’re just starting the afternoon or burning the midnight oil, this is your haven. With their weatherproof patio, there is plenty of space to enjoy the open air or belly up to the bar in their inviting front room and bring your A-game to their dance room—complete with back patio and a bar of its own.
Come play or watch a game of beach volleyball on the newly built outdoor beach volleyball court—equipped with loads of outdoor seating and a fully stocked bar. Find out more about the volleyball leagues at sidebarsocial.com Celebrate Hump Day with their Wine Wednesday specials and all 18 drafts are half-off all night as well! Live music every Friday and Saturday night—so come get down with them! See their profile in the nightlife section for more information.
Slice Pizza and Brew 725 29th Street South 205.715.9300 slicebirmingham.com Pizza-making has reached an art form at Slice Pizza and Brew. Chef Terrill Brazelton uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to marry medleys of flavors in their specialty pizzas. They keep the menu as fresh as their ingredients, so you’ll always have new things to try. Started by brothers, Jeff, Jason and Chris Bajalieh, Slice is as local as you can get, from the ingredients that go into every pizza to the local craft
brews on tap. Slice’s expansive outdoor patio features a real wood-burning fireplace and a fantastic view of Lakeview— perfect for relaxing and people-watching. With pizza offerings ranging from traditional pepperoni to those named for local specialties, from “The Lakeview,” honoring the area Slice calls home, to “The Chilton,” that features Chilton County peaches as a topping. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
According to the Lakeview Business Association, there was originally a lake located at the intersection of Highland and Clairmont avenues. The area surrounding the lake became a gathering ground for people, largely because there was a trolley car drop off in the “Lakeview” area. The area’s social appeal was increased with a pavilion, swimming pool, skating rink, bowling alley and dance floor. The Lakeview Hotel, theatre and baseball park were also a draw to the area. The Lakeview Baseball Park even hosted the first inner-state rivalry game between Alabama and Auburn. Although the attractions have changed and the lake is largely gone, the area remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. A portion of the original lake still exists on the Highland Golf Course. Photograph courtesy of the Birmingham Public Library Archives
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So, we call it Lakeview— but there’s no lake?
F I V E P O I N T S S O U T H E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Historic Five Points South For more than 130 years, this neighborhood has been the social and culinary hub of Birmingham’s southside. 5 Point Public House Oyster Bar 1210 20th Street South 205.918.0726 5pointpublichouse.com For fresh Southeastern costal oysters as well as sushi and more unusual items like chicharrones nachos and a variety of specialty burgers, look no further than 5 Point Public House and Oyster Bar. The new Southside hot spot boasts an eclectic menu that is the brainchild of awardwinning chef/owner George Reis. The foods aren’t the only attraction, with more than 40
Ocean
PHOTOS: BIG SWEDE FOOD
1218 20th Street South 205.933.0999 oceanbirmingham.com For the last 16 years, Birmingham diners looking for bold seafood experience have relied on Ocean in Five Points South to satisfy their cravings. Although the restaurant and its chef/owner George Reis have won numerous awards over the years, what keeps diners returning to Ocean is the ambiance of the restaurant’s interior and patio. Their signature martinis Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
craft beers, 20 beers on tap and cocktails offered to pair with the food. The restaurant also has something unique to Birmingham—eight keg-style wines on tap to be served with dinner or enjoyed in the pubstyle atmosphere of the new gastropub. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
and the restaurant’s Raw Bar which allows diners to sample some of the oysters, shrimp and lobster the restaurant has to offer, also attracts patrons to the restaurant. Ocean is also known for its whole fish plates and pure fish plates that are fresh, quality ingredients, simply prepared. Although the seafood offerings are the star attraction, the restaurant is also known for its mouthwatering Hereford filet mignon. See their profile in the dining section for more information. EXCURSIONS 31
F I V E P O I N T S S O U T H E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Delta Blues Hot Tamales 1318 Cobb Lane South 205.502.7298 deltablueshottamales.com If you’re in the mood for some great southern food, then Delta Blues Hot Tamales is the place to dine. Delta Blues is your choice for spicy pork and black bean tamales, catfish, Italian sausage, smoked wings, crawfish étouffée, red beans and rice and so much more.
940 20th Street South, Birmingham 205.731.7415 makarioskabob.com Makarios is the jewel of Middle Eastern foods and traditional cooking with every dish seasoned to perfection. They offer appetizers while you wait for your food to be freshly prepared. Makarios prides itself in offering the best customer experience. Specializing in catering
for all occasions including weddings, birthdays, showers, office meetings, office parties, picnics, engagements, traditional and religious celebrations. For a truly genuine experience of Middle Eastern fare and culture, be sure to visit them while in town. They are open late, too! See their profile in the dining section for more information.
The J. Clyde 1312 Cobb Lane South 205.939.1312 jclyde.com The J. Clyde is located on Cobb Lane, a historic cobblestone street in the Five Points South entertainment district. Styled like a Parisian café on the outside and an old-style German alehouse on the inside, The J. Clyde is the absolute authority in Birmingham on craft beer and wines. With more than 60 craft brews on tap at all times, The J. Clyde is among the first to offer new brews as they hit the market. They are also known
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See their profile in the dining section for more information.
for their fantastic food-beer and food-wine pairings. The open-air patio along Cobb Lane is a favorite hangout for locals and the enclosed biergarten patio is open yearround. Regularly listed among the top bars in Birmingham, The J. Clyde, has also been named one of the best beer bars in the nation for several years. Casual beer drinkers and aficionados alike will enjoy the offerings, as well as the atmosphere, at The J. Clyde. See their profile in the dining section for more information. PHOTO:
Makarios Kabob & Grill
Locally-owned and operated by Adam and Fawn Freis, Delta Blues was developed by their inspiration to create a menu that is peanut-free, soy-free, glutenfree and is also accessible to vegetarians, vegans and people with other food allergies.
UPTOWN&DOWNTOWN
Uptown & Downtown Birmingham’s revitalized downtown area is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
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U
ptown is Birmingham’s newest entertainment district adjoining The Westin Hotel. Anchored by a central fountain and sunny outdoor spaces, the district is proving popular not only with visitors but with locals attending concerts, plays, consumer shows and other events at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC). One of the most notable features of the new district is the giant television screen that serves as both a digital billboard for the district and is also used to televise sporting events and concerts. Downtown, especially the Second Avenue area, is brimming with restaurants and craft cocktail lounges. Locally-owned
businesses like The Wine Loft, 1st and 23rd, Pale Eddie’s, Rogue Tavern and Tutwiler Bar and Grill are among the hottest places to go. Live music, great food and friendly folks abound in this area. This is the perfect part of the city to visit for a night of entertainment and great food. The Fourth Avenue Business District, which encompasses several city blocks and includes Kelly Ingram Park, the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, is home to Green Acres Cafe, a Birmingham institution established in 1958. Recently named a national monument, the area is rich in civil rights history.
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UPTOWN&DOWNTOWN
2021 Park Place 205.322.2100 thetutwilerbarandgrill.com Open for lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends, the menu offers appetizers like a fresh gulf shrimp cocktail. Lunch choices range from salads with your favorite grilled-to-order protein to house-made crabcakes, sandwiches and burgers. The menu is elevated for the dinner hour to include fresh seafood dishes, steak choices and a decadent dessert menu.
Their extensive wine selection is certain to offer the perfect wine to pair with your meal and dessert. The locally-famous bar area is a mainstay for downtown power brokers during the lunch hour and for cocktails and conversation after the work day ends. Alan, who has been tending bar at the Tutwiler for more than 30 years, pours the finest classic cocktails, craft beer and wine. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
Carrigan’s Public House 2430 Morris Avenue 205.440.2430 carriganspub.com Located on historic Morris Avenue, Carrigan’s Public House is the place to experience the best of the Birmingham’s food and craft cocktail scene. Each cocktail at Carrigan’s is hand-crafted and the beer selection includes plenty of locally brewed choices as well as favorites from all over the world. The menu features traditional pub
1st and 23rd 2300 1st Avenue North 205.213.8255 1stand23rd.com Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, 1st and 23rd provides a relaxing environment to enjoy live music, great food and a variety of cocktails. Come enjoy their southern cuisine, burgers and amazing flatbread pizzas. 1st and 23rd offers a great happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 4 - 7 p.m. featuring food specials, discounted beer, wine and cocktails. They also invite you to join them Sundays for brunch and try their 34 EXCURSIONS
food taken to a higher level with fresh ingredients and everything made in-house from scratch. From the huge front patios on both the main and upper levels, you can see a bit of overthe-mountain Birmingham as well as the historic train yard and cobblestones of Morris Avenue. And when the sun goes down, Carrigan’s comes alive with locals enjoying great food and city nightlife. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
homemade salmon croquettes and their famous Bloody Mary Bar. Follow them on Facebook for their latest Happy Hour promotions Tuesday through Thursday each week. The DJ spins on Saturday evenings and they feature live music on Friday evenings. 1st and 23rd is also the perfect to host a party or corporate event with on-site catering, overhead projector and plenty of seating. See their profile in the nightlife section for more information. PHOTO:
Tutwiler Bar and Grill
UPTOWN&DOWNTOWN
The Wine Loft 2200 1st Avenue North 205.323.8228 wineloftbham.com Located in the heart of Birmingham’s historic downtown entertainment district, The Wine Loft offers a unique experience for those with a sophisticated palate and sense of style. Relax with friends or colleagues in one of their curtained lounge areas and choose from the vast collection of wines from the wine cellar or you may prefer a
Rogue Tavern 2312 2nd Avenue North 205.202.4151 roguetavern.com Rogue Tavern anchors the entertainment area of Second Avenue North. Their extensive menu offers everything from burgers to fresh seafood. The private patio provides for dining under stars. Rogue Tavern also serves as a local hangout to watch sporting events like football on their seven large
See their profile in the nightlife section for more information.
screens, and then catch a show when the game is over. They also host numerous events throughout the year, including a Halloween block party. Rogue Tavern is one of the best places in town to enjoy dinner and the game while enjoying great appetizers and the large selection of beer and liquor offered at their bar. See their profile in the dining section for more information.
Pale Eddie’s 2308 2nd Avenue North 205.297.0052 paleeddiespourhouse.com Pale Eddie’s offers a rotating selection of craft and high-gravity beers, as well as a large selection of wines and liquors. The bar boasts a cozy, pub-like ambiance nestled in the historic loft district. Pale Eddie’s also often hosts live music acts with an emphasis on singer/songwriters and acoustic acts. Regional and national performers like Matthew Mayfield (pictured) play here regularly. The bar’s backdrop also focuses on works from local Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
craft cocktail or beer from the fully-stocked bar. Treat yourself to wines by the glass or bottle served alongside eclectic tapas, appetizers, pizzas, gourmet flatbreads and desserts. With hundreds of wines from all over the world, The Wine Loft is Birmingham’s single best location to find the perfect wine or enjoy an old favorite. They offer wine tastings on Wine Down Wednesdays.
artists, which change often. With food catered by Rogue Tavern, Pale Eddie’s upstairs is the perfect place to host a company mixer or to entertain clients in a private setting. Pale Eddie’s is also the perfect place to hang out with friends, meet clients and/or co-workers for casual conversations. You may also enjoy their cozy patio with HDTVs where any given day of the week you are as comfortable here as you would be at home. Come on in to Pale Eddie’s and get your pour on tonight. See their profile in the nightlife section for more information. EXCURSIONS 35
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PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
LOCALSHOPPING
Retail Therapy Here’s where to treat yourself to something special.
B
irmingham has long been known as the retail giant of Alabama and offers everything from major department stores and popular chains to quaint boutique shopping, including one-of-a-kind vintage and couture. Located in Hoover, The Riverchase Galleria is Alabama’s largest retail complex. You’ll find 200 specialty shops, 30 eateries and several major department stores. The Summit, located on Highway 280 at I-459 boasts more than 80 upscale shops to choose from and more than a dozen places to eat. Designed as an open air mall, The Summit can be a delicious, all day shopping experience. For timeless treasures and unique finds, be sure to stop in Hoover Antiques Gallery and Urban Suburban. Hoover Antique Gallery caters to the traditional and has a wide variety of antiques, jewelry
BROOKWOOD VILLAGE Conveniently located in Homewood right off 280 Highway, shoppers find specialty stores as well as larger retailers such as Macy’s and Books-A-Million. It also houses several particularly good restaurants like Grille 29. Garage and courtesy valet parking is available. Located on Shades Creek Pkwy. (Alabama 149) between U.S. 280 and U.S. 31 just minutes from downtown Birmingham. shopbrookwoodvillage.com
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THE OUTLET SHOPS OF GRAND RIVER Set against the picturesque landscape of the Cahaba River Valley, The Shops of Grand River is a brand new shopping destination. A sampling of the distinctive outlet and specialty stores are Brooks Brothers, Gap Outlet, Jones New York Outlet, Bose, Polo Ralph Lauren, Carters Babies and Kids and more. shopsofgrandriver.com PINNACLE TUTWILER FARM The booming suburb of Trussville includes three Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
large shopping areas. Target, Books-a-Million and Old Navy anchor the mall on U.S. 11. A second shopping area occupies both sides of Chalkville Road, just after the first I-59 Trussville exit, with a Wal-Mart and cinema on one side and a Kohl’s anchoring the other. The third cluster of shops is the Pinnacle Shopping Center, located behind Target and anchored by Best Buy. shoppinnacleattutwiler.com RIVERCHASE GALLERIA Housed beneath the world’s longest skylight are more than 200 shops, a dozen restaurants and a colorful carousel. Look for Von Maur, American Eagle, Banana Republic, Godiva Chocolatier and Abercrombie & Finch, just a few samples of stores in this two-story city under glass. The complex also includes the Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel. U.S. 31 and Alabama 150 at I-459. riverchasegalleria.com THE SUMMIT This shopping destination continues to thrive and expand. A recent addition brought shops
and estate pieces. Urban Suburban, nestled in the charming and revitalized Crestwood neighborhood on Birmingham’s eastern side, caters to the chic and hip. They have a wide selection of art, furniture and vintage finds for the home. Lane Parke and the Villages of Mountain Brook offer shopping and dining experiences that are not to be missed. Conveniently situated just southeast of downtown Birmingham, off of Red Mountain Expressway (Hwy 280), Mountain Brook Village is brimming with unique boutiques, antique stores and casual and fine eateries. This is a great place to spend a day or a couple of hours strolling from store to store. Wherever you decide to begin your shopping adventure in Birmingham, you’ll enjoy our friendly people, ample selection of retailers and our beautiful mountains and valleys.
such as Coldwater Creek, Anthropologie and J. Jill to the list, which already includes Saks, Old Navy, Restoration Hardware, Williams.Sonoma, Chico’s, the Pottery Barn, a luxury spa and some very good restaurants such as Abhi Eatery + Bar and The Village Tavern. At I-459 and U.S. 280. thesummitonline.com THE VILLAGES OF MOUNTAIN BROOK Named for the community and serving as the heart of the community, Mountain Brook Village presents visitors with a complete range of shopping and dining options. Tucked into classic European architecture with blocks of charm, it’s a piece of history perfect for finding something simple or simply amazing. Lane Parke, adjacent to Mountain Brook Village, honors the traditions of Mountain Brook and features the Tudor architecture indicative of the area, it is the largest new development Mountain Brook has seen or will see in decades. Unique shops like B Prince and A’Mano offer fashions and gifts
found nowhere else. Crestline Village offers variety for everyone. A fun and friendly walkable downtown area and tot-lot near the Emmet O’Neal Library prove that around here, kids are king, while the one of a kind boutiques and jawdropping restaurants give Mom and Dad plenty of reasons to keep coming back. HOMEWOOD Downtown Homewood offers store after store in a quaint and walkable downtown area. Unique clothing stores like Hemline and eateries like Lucky Cat Rolled Ice Cream, Soho Social and Market Table are among the dozens or retailers nestled in this part of town. Alabama Goods offers everything made in Alabama from art to pickles. Escape Day Spa is the centerpiece of the Edgewood neighborhood, just a short drive from downtown Homewood.
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Antiques
CIRCA INTERIORS & ANTIQUES
HOMEWOOD ANTIQUES & MARKETPLACE
URBAN SUBURBAN ANTIQUES
2831 Culver Road, Birmingham 205.868.9199 circainteriors.com
930 Oxmoor Road, Homewood 205.4149945 homewoodantiques.com
5514 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, 205.592.0777 @urbansuburbanantiques 5TH AVENUE ANTIQUES
2410 5th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.320.0500 fifththavenueantiques.com ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
200 28th Street S, Birmingham 205.322.3538 architecturalheritage.com
HOOVER ANTIQUE GALLERY
3411 Old Columbia Road, Hoover 204.822.9500 JACKSON GALLERIES
SOHO RETRO
FOUR SEASONS ANTIQUES, ART AND BOTANICALS
2227 First Ave. S, Birmingham 205.714.9933 jacksonantiquegalleries.com
2805 18th Street S, Homewood 205.870.7655 shopsohoretro.com
2910 18th Street S, Birmingham 205.803.4059 4seasonsantiquesandart.com FULL CIRCLE
BAMA FLEA MARKET AND ANTIQUES
GARDENDALE FLEA MALL & ANTIQUE CENTER
1605 Ashville Road, Leeds 205.699.2499 bamafleamall.com
2405 Decatur Hwy., Gardendale, 205.631.7451 gardendalefleamall.com
CHARM
GREYSTONE ANTIQUES
2329 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.322.9023 charmonsecond.com
5475 Hwy. 280, Inverness 205.995.4773
3205 2nd Ave. S, Birmingham 205.581.0202 christopherhouseinc.com
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2021 Third Ave. N, Birmingham 205.326.4460, jimreedbooks.com
CLARK ANTIQUES GALLERY
2949 18th Street S, Homewood 205.871.4221; argentantiques.com
CHRISTOPHER HOUSE ANTIQUES
REED BOOKS, THE MUSEUM OF FOND MEMORIES
2817 2nd Ave., S, Birmingham 205.325.1999 clarkantiquesgallery.com
3908 Clairmont Ave. S, Birmingham 205.202.5907 fullcirlceforestpark.com
ARGENT
ON-A-SHOESTRING
601 Shades Crest Road, Hoover 205.822.8741
HANNA ANTIQUES/ BOOKS! BY GEORGE
2424 7th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.323.6036 HENHOUSE ANTIQUES
1900 Cahaba Road, Birmingham 205.918.0505 henhouseantiques.com
LAMB’S EARS, LTD
70 Church Street, Mountain Brook 205.802.5700 lambsearsltd.com LEVY’S FINE JEWELRY
2116 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.251.3381 levysfinejewelry.com MARTHA LAUREN ANTIQUE LINENS & ACCESSORIES
2417 Canterbury Road, Birmingham 205.871.2283 MULBERRY HEIGHTS ANTIQUES
400 Office Park Dr 205.870.1300 mulberryheightsantiques.com
THE KING’S HOUSE
kingshouseantiques.com TRICIA’S TREASURES
2700 19th Place S, Homewood 205.871.9779 triciastreasures.com TRUSSVILLE ANTIQUE MALL/ THE MALL CAFE
147 North Chalkville Road 205.661.9805 trussvilleantiquemaill.com WHAT’S ON SECOND
2323 1st Ave N, Birmingham 205.322.2688, ZOE’S IN FOREST PARK
3900 Clairmont Ave S, Birmingham, 205.595.9049
NOORDERMEER ANTIEKS
731 Broadway Street, Homewood 205.870.1161
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BOUTIQUES&ART
B Prince
Boutiques & Specialty Shops ALABAMA GOODS
2933 18th Street South, Homewood 205.803.3900 alabamagoods.com A’MANO
281 Rele Street, Mountain Brook 205.871.9093 amanogifts.com B PRINCE
271 Rele Street, Mountain Brook 205.871.1965 shopbprince.com HEMLINE
1802 29th Avenue South, Homewood 205.802.9252 shophemline.com R&R WINE & LIQUOR
81 Church Street, Mountain Brook 205.848.2080
Art ARCENEAUX GALLERY
1830 29th Ave S, Homewood 205.802.5800, arceneauxgallery.com
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a’mano
Alabama Goods
ART ALLEY
DURBIN GALLERY/ AZAR ART STUDIOS
109 Broadway Street, Homewood 205.879.1105 artalleybham.com ARTISTS INCORPORATED
3365 Morgan Drive, Vestavia Hills 205.979.8990 artistsincorporated.com ATCHISON GALLERY & VILLAGE FRAMERS
2847 Culver Road, Birmingham 205.871.6221 theatchisongallery.com BETA PICTORIS GALLERY
2411 Second Ave N, Birmingham 205.413.2999 betapictorisgallery.com BEVERLY MCNEIL ART GALLERY
900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham 205.226.4925 FOUR CORNERS GALLERY
4700 Hwy. 280, Ste. B, Birmingham, 205.980.2600 fourcornersgalleryonline.com FOUR SEASONS ANTIQUES, ART AND BOTANICALS
2817 18th Street S, Birmingham 205.803.4059 4seasonsantiquesandart.com FRIENDS GALLERY HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY
200 Municipal Drive, Hoover 205.444.7820 GABRIELLA’S BISTRO & ART GALLERY
605 28th Street S, Birmingham, 205.328.1761 beverlymcneilgallery..com
317 17th Ave N, Birmingham 205.983.7249
BLUARCH COLLECTION
LEVITE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER
142 West Maple, Birmingham 248.792.9954 DS ART STUDIO GALLERY
2805 Crescent Ave., Ste. E, Homewood, 205.802.4700 dsart.com
3960 Montclair Road, Birmingham, 205.879.0411, bhamjcc.org NAKED ART GALLERY
3831 Clairmont Ave S., Birmingham 205.595.3553 nakedartusa.com
Hemline
NEW LIFE ART, INC.
3600 Lorna Ridge Drive, Hoover 205.979.2158 newlifeart.com ODESSA WOOLFOLK GALLERY AT THE BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE
520 16th Street N, Birmingham 205.328.9696, bcri.org RED DOT GALLERY
1001 Stuart Street, Birmingham 205.870.7608, reddotgallery.com SIP N STROKES
522 Cahaba Park Cir, Birmingham 205.408.2836 SOON-BOK LEE SELLERS ART GALLERY – ARTISTS ON THE BLUFF
571 Park Ave., Hoover, 205.637.5946, artistsonthebluff.com SOJOURNS
2017 3rd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.323.5680 SPACE ONE ELEVEN
2409 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.328.0553, spaceoneeleven.org❖
EXCURSIONS 39
Beauty & Wellness Take some time while you are here to pamper yourself. Our spas and salons offer services and treatments to help you live your best life. So, you’re in the mood to pamper yourself while in town, have a special event you are attending or just need to unwind for an hour or two. Then you’ve come to the right town. Get out of your hotel room and make yourself an appointment at one of our many salons and spas in town. You’ve earned it! The very best in skin care, body treatments, massages and
Spa Services
HAIR IMPRESSIONS SALON AND SPA
ESCAPE DAY SPA
614 Montgomery Hwy., Vestavia Hills, 205.824.2446
100 Broadway Street, Birmingham 205.414.6062 AURA SALON SPA
157 Resource Center Pkwy. Birmingham 205.980.2504 HALCYON DAYS
The Summit Birmingham, 205.967.1177 SANTA FE DAY SPA
611 Doug Baker Blvd, Ste. 214D Hoover, 205.408.7221 SPA AT ROSS BRIDGE
4000 Grand Ave., Hoover 205.916.7677 SMART SKIN MED SPA, INC.
32 Church Street, Birmingham 205.871.8707 TONYA JONES SALONSPA
2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Ste. 280, Birmingham, 205.870.4247
Salons CAPELLI SALON
4647 U.S. Hwy. 280, Birmingham 205.408.0303 DNL HAIR STUDIO
2229 Arlington Ave. S, Birmingham, 205.933.4525 FRINGE
2916 Linden Ave., Birmingham 205.802.3888
40 EXCURSIONS
relaxation treatments are waiting for you at Escape Day Spa in Homewood. The professionals there are amazing and you will leave there feeling and looking like a million dollars. We haven’t forgotten the fellas, either. There are several highend grooming shops ready to take good care of you. On a special diet or health regimen? We’ve got you covered there, too. Enjoy!
TREADWELL BARBERS
2700 Culver Road, Birmingham 205.870.9210 TUTWILER BARBER SHOP
HAIR REFLECTIONS
2021 Park PL, 205.252.2786 *Ask for Mimi
300 Doug Baker Blvd, Birmingham 205.977.7770
VINCENT OLIVER’S HIPPODROME BARBER SHOP
JIM OSTROSKY SALON
2032 Kentucky Ave., Vestavia Hills 205.823.8455
5530 1st Ave N, Birmingham
Fitness
OAK STREET HAIR GROUP
125 Oak Street, Birmingham, 205.879.3222 ORBIT SALON
2030 11th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.918.0333
AERO JOE
For the Gentlemen BENNIE MAC’S ON 1ST
4831 1st Ave N, Birmingham 205.591.2887
SALON U
2824 Linden Ave., Birmingham 205.870.8708 SANCTUARY
1931 29th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.879.4757 SCIASCAI’S SALON & BOUTIQUE
2807 18th Street S, Homewood 205.870.5099
ETHERIDGE BROTHERS BARBER
1618 3rd Ave N, Birmingham 205.254.9181 MAGIC CITY BARBER SHOP
CORE
4274 Cahaba Heights Court, Ste. 220, Birmingham, 205.969.8989 KIVA HOT YOGA
300 Olde Towne Rd, Vestavial Hills, 205.824.2626
MR. CLAY’S BARBER SHOP
MPOWER PILATES + CYCLE STUDIO
2502 Rocky Ridge Road, Vestavia Hills, 205.824.4313
2419 Canterbury Rd, Birmingham 205.518.5676
MAGIC CITY BARBER SHOP
1711 4th Ave. N, Birmingham 205.254.9038
WHEELHOUSE SALON
2904 Linden Ave, Homewood 205.582.2083
BIRMINGHAM YOGA
605 37th Street S, Birmingham 205.637.4228
1711 4th Ave. N, Birmingham 205.254.9038
TRIPLE PLATINUM SALON
412 37th Street South Birmingham, 205.324.9224
2805 2nd Ave. S, Ste. 100, Birmingham 205.202.5758
YOGA CIRCLE
1425 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. S, Birmingham; 205.266.7547
STEPHEN GREGORY A MEN’S CONCEPT
NEIGHBORHOOD BARRE
2012 Magnolia Ave S, Birmingham, 205.703.8076
2808 7th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.396.3006❖
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BEAUTY&WELLNESS SPOTLIGHT
Gift Cards Available SPA SERVICES
PHOTOS: ESCAPE DAY SPA
S
tep into your own private retreat. Relax and rejuvenate yourself in a peaceful setting. Unite your mind, body and spirit as you allow yourself a moment to get away from it all and immerse yourself in tranquility. Escape Day Spa is a family-owned business that believes in the power of healing through touch and meditation. Their guests find rest and solace through their therapeutic and cosmetic services—all designed to offer the epitome of luxurious comfort. Escape’s staff believes in offering luxurious treatment to those looking for their own private escapes, and seeks to create a deep sense of contentment and relaxation in each guest through their therapeutic treatments. Call or go to their website to make your appointment today and get ready to feel amazing.
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THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE Unwind as you drift away under the experienced hands of our massage therapist. We offer a variety of massages, all designed to offer therapeutic release for your body. BODY TREATMENTS AND WRAPS Experience the pinnacle of an elite day with a deeply soothing body treatment and wrap. We have a variety of therapeutic options available that promise to refresh your skin and surround you in bliss and comfort. FACIALS AND SKIN CARE SERVICES Rejuvenate your skin with our unique European facials that will sweep you away to Europe, customized just for you! DERMASWEEP The DermaSweep MD system is a stateof-the-art, non-invasive exfoliation and skin revitalizing system.
100 Broadway Street Homewood, AL 35209 205.414.6062 theplacetoescape.com
MANICURE AND PEDICURE Few treatments are as relaxing and soothing as a professional manicure and pedicure. We take great pride in pampering our guests, and that includes showing special care to their hands and feet. SPRAY TAN Obtain the look you want with our allnatural, 100% organic spray tanning solution. Our Natural Glow sunless spray tan is a perfect way to look your best while avoiding the sun or tanning beds. HAIR REMOVAL AND WAXING Look and feel your best at all times. We offer a variety of hair removal and waxing treatments designed to give you the smooth, comfortable look you desire. XTREME EYELASH EXTENSIONS For those who want lush, luxurious eyelashes, we proudly offer a revolutionary new treatment: Xtreme Lashes eyelash extensions!
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EXCURSIONS 41
Main Attractions The Birmingham Metro area offers a broad range of attractions worth getting out of your hotel room. 42 EXCURSIONS
PHOTOS: GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S
16th Street Baptist Church National Historic Landmark The 16th Street Baptist Church is Birmingham’s most famous Civil Rights landmark. On a September Sunday morning in 1963, four AfricanAmerican schoolgirls were in the basement of the church just prior to the worship service. A bomb set by Ku Klux Klansmen ripped through that side of the church, killing 11-year-old Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Addie Mae Collins, all 14 years old. The bombing was a turning point in the status of race relations locally and nationally. Now a National Historic Landmark, the church is a reminder of man’s inhumanity and his capacity for love and forgiveness. Tours by appointment. Donations welcome. 1530 6th Ave. N; 205.251.9402; 16thstreetbaptist.org
beginnings of Clarence “Pinetop” Smith to the velvet crooning of Nat King Cole, legendary jazz greats are immortalized in the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, within the historic Carver Theatre. Interactive exhibits also recall the contributions of Sun Ra and His Intergalactic Space Arkestra, along with Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton and Erskine Hawkins. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission. 1631 4th Ave. N; 205.327.9424; jazzhall.com
Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame Outside on the sidewalk, visitors can feel the rhythm. From the boogie-woogie Denotes our sponsors—see their mobile profiles at EXCURSIONSGO.com
Alabama Splash Adventure Waterpark Alabama’s greatest water adventure! Create water fun your way, whether it’s relaxing by the wave pool and enjoying the lazy river or amping up the excitement with monster slides, water-based obstacle course, water maze, Zip Line and more! Experience special events throughout the season, such as dive-in movies! Great for the family or a larger group outing. 4599 Alabama Adventure Pkwy. Open seasonally visit website for details.; 205.481.4750; alabamasplash.com
Alabama Sports Hall of Fame Displays include memorabilia from the late University of Alabama Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, a tribute to Olympic great Jesse Owens and other displays showcasing the careers of Alabama-connected sports figures such as Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and Joe Louis. Open Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission. 2150 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd.; 205.323.6665; ashof.org Alabama Theatre Built in 1927, the Alabama Theatre is one of the nation’s last operating movie palaces, featuring first-run and revival films, concerts and other special events. The “Mighty Wurlitzer” organ still rises from the orchestra pit and is often played to accompany silent films. Tours by appointment. Call for special events schedule. Admission. 1817 3rd Ave. N; 205.252.2262; alabamatheatre.com
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M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S
Alabama Veteran’s Memorial Amid peaceful Alabama woodlands, you can peruse the names of Alabamians lost to war. A timeline in the memorial walkway outlines historic events of the 20th and 21st centuries. Visitors will find descriptions of Alabama’s 23 Medal of Honor recipients of the 20th century, and in the courtyard, Medal of Honor stories appear on columns with artwork and letters. I-459, exit Liberty Park 100 Overtown Access Road; 205.305.6749; alabamaveterans.org Aldridge Gardens Aldridge Gardens, a 30-acre natural garden with a 5-acre lake, beautiful hydrangeas and now features the largest Frank Fleming Collection in the area, an art gallery on site and sculptures throughout the property. Aldridge Gardens is truly the Birmingham area’s “best kept secret.” Aldridge Gardens, Nature and Art in 44 EXCURSIONS
Balance. Open Monday Sunday, 8 a.m - 4:30 p.m. 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover; 205.682.8019; aldridgegardens.com American Village This Colonial-style village is set on more than 100 rural acres, just south of Birmingham. Costumed interpreters guide visitors on a trip back in time to America’s journey for independence. Bring your imagination and sense of adventure. Tours Monday - Friday at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Special programs for groups by appointment. Admission. 3727 Hwy. 119, Montevallo; 205.665.3535; americanvillage.org Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens The city’s only remaining antebellum home, the mansion is fully restored and contains a fine collection of antiques and decorative arts including 19th
century furniture, textiles, silver and paintings. During the Civil War, Arlington antebellum home was spared from destruction when Union troops used the home as headquarters. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m. (tickets sold until 3 p.m.) Admission. 331 Cotton Ave. SW; 205.780.5656; arlingtonantebellumhomeandgardens.com Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Home to the world’s largest collection of motorcycles, the Barber Museum has more than 1,500 motorcycles, as well as more than 50 vintage Lotus cars. The motorcycles range from 1902 to current-year production. There are common street bikes as well as Gran Prix race machines. The car collection includes a variety of rare and special makes. The museum is located at the 880acre Barber Motorsports Park, which also contains a world-
class, 2.38-mile road course. It features the annual Barber Vintage Festival and the annual Barber Historics. Open daily except major holidays. Check website for hours and information. Admission. 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway; 205699-7275; barbermuseum.org Birmingham Botanical Gardens The glory of nature in the heart of the city—that’s the promise of the 67-acre Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The gardens are Alabama’s largest living museum with more than 10,000 different plants in 25 themed areas. The gardens also have more than 30 works of original outdoor sculpture and miles of walking paths. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens has the largest public horticulture library in the U.S., conservatories, a wildflower garden, two rose
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gardens and Japanese Gardens with a traditionally crafted tea house. The gift shop is a special treat. Open sunrise to sunset daily. 2612 Lane Park Rd; 205.414.3950; bbgardens.org Birmingham Civil Rights Heritage Trail The Birmingham Civil Rights Heritage Trail winds through downtown, marking significant locations along Civil Rights march routes. Designed as a self-guided tour, the route includes signs marking actual civil rights events that occurred on the very streets that are a part of this trail. Beginning at Kelly Ingram Park, corner of 6th Ave. N and 16th Street. Follow maps on signs. heritagetrail. birminghamal.gov Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Richly detailed exhibits in the Civil Rights Institute reveal slices of black and white life in Alabama from the late 1800s to the present. A series of galleries tells the stories of daily life for AfricanAmericans in the state and the nation and how dramatically different it was from the lives white people of that era took for granted. The powerful Movement Gallery presents the Civil Rights Movement from 1955 to 1963. Here, a picture emerges of the bad old days of “Bombingham,” a reference to the relentless violence that rocked the city in the late ‘50s and early ‘60s. In the final exhibits, the Processional Gallery uses lifesize figures representing all ages and races to portray the “walk to freedom.” Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 - 5 p.m. Admission. 520 16th St. N, 205.328.9696; bcri.org Birmingham Holocaust Education Center Dedicated to the history and lessons of the Holocaust, the Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
BHEC houses a variety of exhibits and resources. On permanent display is the acclaimed “Darkness into Life” exhibit of photography, art and narratives from 20 Holocaust survivors who settled in Alabama. With more than 2,100 volumes available for loan and on-site study, BHEC also has the largest Holocaust Studies Library in the Southeast. 2222 Arlington Ave S.; 205.795.4176. ; bhamholocausteducation.org Birmingham Museum of Art The Birmingham Museum of Art has one of the finest collections in the Southeast. More than 24,000 objects represent a rich panorama of cultures, including Asian, European, American, African, Pre-Columbian and Native American. Highlights include the museum’s collection of Asian art, considered the finest and most comprehensive in the Southeast, and its collection of Vietnamese ceramics, one of the finest in the world; a remarkable Kress collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings, sculpture and decorative arts from the late 13th century to the 1750s; the collection of 18th century European decorative arts, which includes superior examples of English ceramics and French furniture; and the museum’s world-renowned collection of Wedgwood, the largest outside of England. Excellent café. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 5 p.m. Donations welcome. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.; 205.254.2565; artsbma.org Birmingham Public Library The main library is made up of two stunning buildings, the East Building with its dramatic atrium and the 1927 Linn-Henley Research Library with its beautiful wall murals. Hundreds of visitors
The Birmingham Civil Rights District Declared a National Monument The Birmingham Civil Rights District was declared as a national monument by outgoing President Barack Obama in early January 2017. The monument will include lesser-known portions of the Historic Birmingham Civil Rights District, such as the A.G. Gaston Motel, the Birmingham headquarters for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There King planned the march on Washington, held numerous press conferences and wrote portions of “I Have a Dream” speech. The monument will also include the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Bethel Baptist Church, the Colored Masonic Temple, St. Paul United Methodist Church and a portion of the 4th Avenue Business District. The more well-known civil rights sites will anchor the monument, such as the 16th Street Baptist Church, now infamous for a Sunday-morning bombing that killed four little girls; and Kelly Ingram Park where peaceful protestors including children were arrested and met by high-pressure hoses and police attack dogs as they protested segregation.
EXCURSIONS 45
come to the main library each year to access their extensive genealogical resources. Open Monday - Tuesday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Wednesday Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday, 2 - 6 p.m. 2100 Park Place; 205.226.3600; bplonline.org Birmingham Race Course A spacious pari-mutuel racing facility, the Birmingham Race Course is open year-round. Patrons enjoy live greyhound racing and simulcast events from the country’s top thoroughbred and greyhound racetracks. With more than 200 simulcast races on Saturday alone, the Birmingham Race Course gives the ardent handicapper the chance to hit the big one. Must be 19 or older to play. Open daily 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. 1000 John Rogers Drive; 205.838.7500; birminghamracecourse.com Birmingham Zoo As one of the state’s most popular attractions, the 46 EXCURSIONS
Birmingham Zoo is an everevolving adventure with approximately 900 animals of 230 species. Visitors come from around the Southeast to experience the Wildlife Show, Predator Zone, Giraffe Feedings, and the Sea Lion Show. The Zoo is blazing new trails in elephant conservation with the Trails of Africa. This initiative designates the Birmingham Zoo as a national leader in the care and
conservation of threatened elephants. With new features such as a jaguar and howler monkeys, the Birmingham Zoo is the perfect place to make memories to last a lifetime. Open daily from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission required. 2630 Cahaba Road; 205.879.0409; birminghamzoo.com
Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) One of the best known religious sites in Birmingham is EWTN, the Eternal Word Television Network, founded by Mother Mary Angelica, broadcasting daily from the grounds of Our Lady of the Angels Monastery. Mother Angelica hosted “Mother Angelica Live!” on EWTN until she suffered a debilitating stroke in 2001. Today daily Mass, music, news and devotionals are broadcast round the clock to more than 53 million homes in 32 countries. Tours by appointment only. 5817 Old Leeds Road Irondale; 205.271.2900; ewtn.com Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Alabama’s official railroad museum, the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum has operating standard gauge and narrow gauge trains and two restored depots housing a good collection of railroad artifacts. Also on the grounds is a
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PHOTOS: GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S
SPOTLIGHT
MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER
PHOTO:
I
n 1998, a stimulating and interactive science museum opened its doors in the heart of downtown Birmingham. McWane Science Center is housed in the historic and refurbished Loveman’s department store building in Birmingham’s revitalization district. McWane Science Center has welcomed millions of visitors—from ages 1 to 100—year-round to see, to hear, to touch and to experience the wonder of science in one of the South’s most unique venues. Four floors of interactive exhibits celebrate science and wonder—you can play tunes with your feet on the giant piano, learn about gravity with a daring ride on the High Cycle or pet the sharks and stingrays in the Shark & Ray Touch Tank—there is a new discovery around every corner.
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The adventure intensifies in the IMAX® Dome Theater, where wideeyed visitors experience the sights and sounds of breathtaking films on a 5-story-tall screen surrounded by 3 tons of high-intensity speakers. McWane’s IMAX® Dome Theatre shows features covering a variety of topics ranging from great white shark to Tornado Alley, as well as special event Hollywood hits. McWane Science Center can also be a wonderful backdrop for a group of 10-500+, day or night. With in-house catering and an experienced special 205.714.8300 200 19th Street North Birmingham, AL mcwane.org mcwane-science-center mcwane
events team to assist with every detail, McWane Science Center offers unique but functional event spaces perfect for your business luncheon, meeting, employee appreciation day, wedding reception or even an overnight adventure. For 20 years, McWane Science Center has stayed true to its mission—to change lives through science and wonder. As a cornerstone of the downtown community, McWane opens its doors to young and old alike for laughter, learning and an experience like no other.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. Weekdays 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 47
M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S
collection of railway cars, locomotives and cabooses. Train rides available—call for dates and times. Museum open Tuesday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Donations welcome. 1919 9th St., Calera; 205.668.3435; hodrrm.org Kelly Ingram Park Called a “Place of Revolution and Reconciliation,” Kelly Ingram Park in Birmingham’s Civil Rights District is adjacent to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and historic 16th Street Baptist Church. The park served as a staging area for demonstrations in the early 1960s, including the ones in which police dogs and fire hoses were turned on marchers. Images of those attacks haunted Birmingham in the decades that followed, but they were the same images that were instrumental in overturning legal segregation. An audio tour, available via your cell phone, takes you on a journey through the most dramatic days 48 EXCURSIONS
of the Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham. Bounded by 16th and 17th Streets and 5th and 6th Ave N. The Lyric Theatre The Lyric is the newest theater in downtown Birmingham. Built in 1914 the theater was used for vaudeville shows. The theater was vacant from 1970 until renovations were able to start in 2015 with the help of fundraising from Light Up the
Lyric. The Lyric opened in January 2016 with a launch of three shows. The Lyric is primarily for live performances but also serves as a wedding and event venue. Check online for event schedule. McWane Science Center Four floors of hands-on exhibits and an IMAX Dome Theatre are all part of the fun of learning at McWane Science Center. Celebrating science
and discovery, the exhibits include everything from dinosaurs to space travel. Play tunes with your feet on the giant piano, and learn about gravity with a daring ride on the High Cycle. Pet the sharks and stingrays in the Shark & Ray Touch Tank, and check out the Zoetrope for visual illusions of motion from still pictures. Open Monday Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 6 p.m. Admission. 200 19th Street N; 205.714.8300; mcwane.org Mercedes-Benz US International Visitors Center Mercedes-Benz US International (MBUSI) in nearby Vance, builds the M-Class, the R-Class and the GL-Class vehicles. The visitors center, the first one of its kind outside Germany, displays the star studded history of Daimler-Benz. This architectural showcase brings
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SPOTLIGHT
VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM ®
PHOTOS: (RIGHT) COLIN PETERSON PHOTOGRAPHY; (LEFT) GINNARD ARCHIBALD PHOTO:
A
trip to Vulcan Park and Museum is a must for every visitor to the Birmingham region—in fact, it’s the best place to get started. In addition to seeing the iconic colossal statue, visitors gain an understanding of the region’s history and culture, and can learn more about other cultural, recreational and entertainment offerings at an onsite Visitor Information Center managed by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau. Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue and is considered one of the most memorable works of civic art in the United States. Created by Italian artist Giuseppe Moretti, Vulcan was cast from local iron to represent the state of Alabama at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. Vulcan has overlooked Alabama’s largest city from atop Red Mountain since a 1930s WPA project created his permanent home and namesake park. After decades of exposure to the elements, by the 90s, the 50-ton statue was in desperate need of repair. Recognizing Vulcan’s importance to the region’s history and persona, community leaders formed Vulcan Park Foundation, a nonprofit organization which oversaw a $16 million project that returned the statue to his 1904 grandeur. The meticulous restoration of Vulcan and his 124’ sandstone pedestal, completed in 2004, received numerous awards including the highest honor awarded by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Embracing the personality of the community Vulcan symbolizes, the park grounds and museum offer a dynamic edu-taining experience.
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for Birmingham
Alabama’s rich industrial history, the diverse cultures that settled and built the community, and the story of Vulcan are recounted in both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Vulcan’s park grounds and observation tower offer breathtaking views of downtown and the surrounding areas— a great introduction to Birmingham, day or night. Visit Vulcan and learn the fascinating history that has made him the iconic symbol of our city and why he has stood for Birmingham for more than a century and counting.
1701 Valley View Drive Birmingham, AL 35209 visitvulcan.com @ visitvulcan Museum Hours: Monday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Observation Tower Hours: Monday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 49
to life the company’s long-held vision of producing the most excellent automobiles in the world. Much more than a museum, the visitors center moves people along a multimedia path through the past, present and future of automotive technology. Visitors Center open Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Admission for factory tours (available by reservation only) 11 Mercedes Drive, Vance; 205.507.2252; mbusi.com Negro Southern League Museum This interactive facility tells the story of the Birmingham Black Barons and other baseball greats who played at Birmingham’s Rickwood Field, the oldest ballpark in the country. Displays include the oldest Negro League trophy, along with uniforms and artifacts. See their website for hours and tour information. Located at Regions Field on the corner of 1st Ave S and 50 EXCURSIONS
16th S; 205.581.3040 birminghamnslm.org Oak Mountain State Park More outdoor adventure can be found at Alabama’s largest state park. The 10,000-acre park has a sandy beach area fronting the lake, rental boats and fishing equipment, an 18hole golf course, and some of the best mountain biking trails in the Southeast. The Wildlife Center and Treetop Nature Trail give visitors up-close views of hawks and owls that cannot be released into the wild. Overnight accommodations also are available within the park. Open every day, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission. 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham; 205.620.2520; alapark.com/oakmountain Pepper Place Saturday Market (seasonal) April – December The Pepper Place Saturday Market is a much-anticipated weekly event, taking place
Saturday mornings from early spring through late fall. The region’s farming families converge on a lot in the Lakeview District to sell fresh vegetables and flowers, freshbaked breads, cakes and pies, and even fresh honey. Local musicians and Birmingham’s finest chefs join the farming community and market patrons for entertainment and cooking demonstrations. A former Dr. Pepper bottling plant, Pepper Place is also known for its shops that have made it a premier design center. 2829 2nd Ave S.; 205.802.2100 pepperplacemarket.com Rickwood Field Built in 1910, Rickwood Field is America’s oldest baseball park. During its heyday, Rickwood hosted baseball greats such as Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lorenzo “Piper” Davis, Willie Mays and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson. Friends and fans eagerly await the
annual Rickwood Classic, a game that pits the AA Birmingham Barons against a regular Southern League rival. The authenticity of Rickwood is being carefully preserved by the Friends of Rickwood Field, a nonprofit organization devoted to the restoration and upkeep of the historic ball field. Open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Check events schedule for expanded hours. 1137 2nd Ave. W; 205.458.8161; rickwood.com Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark Sloss is a 32-acre blast furnace plant where iron was made for nearly 100 years. Now a museum of history and industry, the site preserves a collection of machinery, buildings and industrial structures. These artifacts typify the first 100 years of Birmingham’s history and the technology that drove
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PHOTOS: (LEFT) BRENT BOYD; (RIGHT) GINNARD ARCHIBALD PHOTO:
M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S
PHOTO:
America’s rise to world industrial dominance. Sloss is the only 20th century blast furnace in the country being preserved and interpreted as a museum. Additional interest at Sloss is the speculation that the furnaces are haunted by a former foundryman. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. Donations welcome. 20 32nd Street N; 205.324.1911; slossfurnaces.com Southern Museum of Flight The Southern Museum of Flight is dedicated to investigating, preserving and promoting the rich stories of Southern aviation. Among the top exhibits are the Korean War jets, the Tuskegee Airmen diorama, the Lake Murray B-25, and the Vietnam War helicopters. S Open Tuesday - Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Admission. 4343 73rd Street N; 205.833.8226; southernmuseumofflight.org
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Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park With more than 1,500 acres for hiking and camping, Tannehill is well suited for outdoor recreation. The old ironworks and a collection of 19th century buildings give visitors a glimpse into life in Alabama in the 1800s. Steeped in history, Tannehill has a cotton gin, a pioneer farm, a working gristmill and a country store, along with the Iron and Steel Museum with artifacts from Alabama’s iron industry heritage. Spring through fall, visitors find blacksmithing, milling and other activities underway in the park. The third weekends from March through November, shoppers and swappers come from near and far to Trade Days in search of quilts, clothing, jewelry, knives, furniture and other treasures. Open daily 7 a.m. sunset. Admission. 12632 Confederate Pkwy., McCalla; 205.477.5711; tannehill.org
The Pizitz Food Hall Located inside the completely restored historic Pizitz building in downtown Birmingham, the Pizitz Food Hall is unique collection of local restaurants and shopping. The Louis Bar is the focal point of the hall surrounded by a variety of food stalls offering cuisine ranging from southern to exotic. Learn more in the feature article in the dining section starting on page 80. Open Monday - Friday, 7 a.m - 8 p.m; Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Individual stall hours may vary. 1821 2nd Ave N.; thepizitz.com Vulcan Park and Museum Vulcan is the largest cast iron statue in the world and Birmingham’s city symbol. Standing high atop Red Mountain, the 56-foot-high statue has an observation balcony on its pedestal for a panoramic view of the city.
Vulcan is patterned after the mythical Roman god of the forge, a nod to the city’s powerful position in the iron and steel industry in the first part of the 20th century. The statue was created as Birmingham’s exhibit in the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis and won the exposition’s grand prize. The museum at Vulcan has interactive exhibits and displays that portray the region’s history and progress. Museum open Monday Sunday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Obervation Tower open Monday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Admission. 1701 Valley View Drive; 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com ❖
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Alabama Theatre 1817 3rd Ave. N; 205.252-2262; alabamatheatre.com Known as “The Showplace of the South,� The Alabama Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Birmingham Alabama on 3rd Avenue N. Since 1927 the Alabama Theatre has been the home to shows and performances ranging from movies, concerts, beauty pageants, silent films and even the Mickey Mouse Club! This beautiful theatre is an amazing piece of history that defies the imagination and must be experienced to be truly appreciated. 52 EXCURSIONS
Performing Arts
No longer an industrial giant, Birmingham’s new “magic” is in the thriving arts community. by H E AT H E R A DA M S
PHOTO: BILLY BROWN
B
irmingham was nicknamed “The Magic City” at the turn of the 20th century due to its almost overnight emergence as a powerhouse in steel and iron manufacturing. The city thrived on the sudden influx of people and commerce. As with any new and bustling city, it did not take long for an active community of arts to form and grow strong. The steel and iron business may have faded, but although Birmingham is no longer an epicenter of the industrial movement, it has established itself as a quite a leader in the realm of visual and performing arts. And while the nickname, “The Magic City,” originally described Birmingham’s industrial prowess, it has come to accurately describe the city’s long-reaching influence on the arts. Merriam-Webster lists “magic” as a noun described as “an extraordinary power of influence seemingly from a supernatural source,” as well as “something that seems to cast a spell.” Birmingham does indeed cast a spell on patrons of the arts, ranging from theatre to music to film. Entranced audiences will have the chance to be anything, anywhere they had ever dreamed. Escape to Egypt through Opera Birmingham’s performance of Aida or to France through the Alabama Ballet’s adaptation of Giselle. Or unearth the treasures of Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
home as you visit the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and the Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham staples that date back to the 1920s. If you find yourself drawn to independent arts movements, take a trip through the Theatre District in downtown. Here
you will find the Red Mountain Theatre, Terrific New Theatre and the Theatre Downtown, each of which boasts origins from an almost phoenix-style rising of new art from the beloved traditions of the past. Wander through the Sidewalk Moving Pictures Festival or
come to the Cabaret. For a more mainstream show, take a drive south of Birmingham and enjoy the Verizon Wireless Music Center which has hosted acts ranging from Rascal Flatts to Kings of Leon and the Dave Matthews Band. Moreover, in Birmingham, the arts form a true community with each guild and theatre enmeshing themselves within the cultural and educational spheres of the city. The Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center is located on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The Birmingham Festival Theatre performed its first original piece on the campus of Birmingham-Southern College, whose stage mirrors that of William Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, as the Alabama Ballet hosts their four annual productions at Wright Theatre on the campus of Samford University. And the Library Theatre is aptly titled, since it is housed inside the Hoover Public Library. The Virginia Samford Theatre and the Red Mountain Theatre both have intertwined past lives with Birmingham’s famous “Town and Gown” productions, while the Alabama Symphony Orchestra answered the city’s need for music after World War II. A guided tour through Birmingham’s performing arts venues will certainly make anyone a believer in the magic this city has to offer. Those who know choose Birmingham for visual and performing arts. EXCURSIONS 53
PERFORMINGARTS
Alabama Ballet 2726 1st Ave. S; 205.322.4300; alabamaballet.org Alabama Ballet seeks to promote and foster the development of classical and contemporary ballet through high-quality education and community outreach. They offer a variety of classes for all ages. Under the direction of Tracey Alvey, this company of professional dancers presents four full-length productions annually.
Alabama Symphony Orchestra 3621 6th Ave. S; 205.975.2787; alabamasymphony.org The Alabama Symphony Orchestra has entertained audiences for more than 70 years, playing a variety of classical and popular compositions and hosting performances by some of the finest international guest artists. The symphony’s 54 talented musicians bring to life some of the world’s most treasured musical masterpieces, giving 190 performances a year.
Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center 1200 10th Ave. S; 205.975.2787 or alysstephens.org The trademark of UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center is diversity—diverse performances and diverse audiences. From classical, pop, jazz and world beat music to dance, comedy, theater and family entertainment, the center welcomes the entire community into the magical realm of performing arts.
Birmingham Children’s Theatre 2130 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N; 205.458.8181; bct123.org Birmingham Children’s Theatre was founded in 1946. Since that time, it has become one of America’s largest professional theatres for young 54 EXCURSIONS
audiences and now operates in a three theatre complex at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. The theatre produces eight shows shows seasonally, four of which tour, giving the theatre a combined audience of over 200,000 each year.
by the City of Hoover and the Friends of the Hoover Public Library. The theatre also features the work of local artists in their gallery.
Birmingham Festival Theatre
Northern Alabama’s only professional, regional opera company, Opera Birmingham has entertained and informed audiences in the region for over 50 years. From its humble beginnings in 1955 to its 50th anniversary in 2005 and beyond, Opera Birmingham has produced world-class operatic productions and concerts that have been hailed by critics and loved by audiences.
1901 11th Ave. S; 205.933.2383; bftonline.org Founded in 1972, Birmingham Festival Theatre is the oldest theatre in Birmingham producing contemporary and classic theatre. It is managed by an all-volunteer board of directors. Since its founding, BFT has staged more than 200 productions—involving more than 50 directors, almost 1,000 actors and 500 crew people—attended by almost 100,000 audience members.
The Library Theatre 200 Municipal Drive, Hoover, Al; 205.444.7888; thelibrarytheatre.com The Library Theatre is a professional venue bringing world-class entertainment to an intimate setting in the heart of Hoover. The Library Theatre is sponsored in part
Opera Birmingham 3601 6th Ave. S; 205.322.6737; operabirmingham.org
Red Mountain Theatre Company 301 19th Street S; 205.324.2424; redmountaintheatre.org Red Mountain Theatre Company is a nonprofit professional theatre organization with an emphasis on musical theatre. Red Mountain Theatre Company‘s season begins in September and runs through July each year with a wide variety of well-known musicals.
Terrific New Theatre 2821 2nd Ave. S; 205.328.0868; terrificnewtheatre.com Founded by Steve Stella and Carl Stewart in 1986, Terrific New Theatre (TNT) is the off-Broadway of Birmingham. Featuring avant garde performances, TNT thrills audiences with performances that aren’t seen anywhere else in town. Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 8 pm. Cash or checks only.
Theatre Downtown 2410 5th Ave. South; 205.565.8838; theatredowntown.org Theatre Downtown was founded in 2006 and provides the city of Birmingham with cutting-edge contemporary theatre and a host of Alabama and Southeastern premieres. A traveling troupe, Theatre Downtown performs throughout the Birmingham area in a variety of locations.
Verizon Wireless Music Center 1000 Amphitheatre Road; 205.985.0703 ; theoakmountaintainamphitheater.com Each year between April and October, some of the world’s top musicians perform in the beautiful outdoor arena, formerly known as Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. Fee varies with each performance. Now a LiveNation venue, located just south of the city, Highway 119 exit off I-65.
Virginia Samford Theatre 1116 26th Street S; 205.251.1206; virginiasamfordtheatre.org The Virginia Samford Theatre presents a wide variety of musicals. The charming historic theater with its parkside setting is located on Birmingham’s southside and has a lovely outdoor courtyard. Season begins each August.❖
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The Lyric Theatre 1817 3rd Ave. N, 205.252.2262; lightupthelyric.com The Lyric was once a fine performing arts theater which it promises to be again. Built in 1914 and restored in 2015, the theater re-opened its doors again in January 2016. Located in downtown Birmingham, The Lyric hopes to make the theater district of Birmingham live again. The Lyric holds live performaces as well as wedding and events. The renovation was still underway at the time this photo was taken. photograph by Brent Boyd
EXCURSIONS 55
Welcome to Foodie Paradise
PHOTO:
There’s good reason why Birmingham consistently lands at the top of all the best lists for culinary pleasures...enjoy!
56 EXCURSIONS
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LOCALDINING
SOUTHSIDE AND DOWNTOWN 5 POINT PUBLIC HOUSE OYSTER BAR
1210 20th Street S 205.918.0726
LITTLE SAVANNAH RESTAURANT AND BAR
3811 Clairmont Ave. S 205.591.1119
MAKARIOS KABOBS & GRILL
940 20th Street S 205.731.7414
AVONDALE COMMON HOUSE
4100 3rd Ave S 205.703.9895
MO:MO: AT PIZITZ FOOD HALL
1821 2nd Ave N 205.222.3207
THE WINE LOFT
2200 1st Ave. N 205.323.8228 TIN ROOF
2709 7th Ave. S 205.323.4356 TROPICALEO
4426 4th Ave S 205.643.5956
BABALU TACOS & TAPAS
2808 7th Ave. S, Ste. 117 205.297.0200 BAMBOO ON 2ND
2212 2nd Ave. N 205.703.0551
BIRD’S BAR & PIZZA
2839 7th Ave S 205.323.0008
BLACK MARKET BAR & GRILL
2901 2nd Ave. S, Ste. 110 205.323.6980
OCEAN
1218 20th Street S 205.933.0999
WAFFLE WORKS AT PIZITZ FOOD HALL
CARRIGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE
POST OFFICE PIES
TUTWILER BAR & GRILL
2901 2nd Ave. S, Ste. 150 205.731.6499
808 SOUTH - A BISTRO
2408 7th Ave. S 205.933.7517
215 41st Street S 205.591.1409
AL’S DELI & GRILL
1629 10th Ave. S 205.939.4278
218 20th Street N 205.983.7999
SLICE PIZZA & BREWHOUSE
ATRIUM CAFÉ IN SHERATON HOTEL
3028 Clairmont Ave., Ste. 110 205.254.9780
AVERY’S CAFE
2240 Highland Ave. S 205.939.1000
CANTINA TORTILLA GRILL
2430 Morris Ave. 205.440.2430
DELTA BLUES HOT TAMALES
1318 Cobb Lane S 205.502.7298
ELI’S JERUSALEM GRILL AT PIZITZ FOOD HALL
1821 2nd Ave N 205.637.3658
FERO AT PIZITZ FOOD HALL
1821 2nd Ave N, Ste. 176 205.582.9250
209 41st Street S 205.599.9900
ROGUE TAVERN
2312 2nd Ave. N 205.202.4151
SAW’S SOUL KITCHEN
725 29th Street S 205.715.9300 THE J. CLYDE
GHION CULTURAL HALL AT PIZITZ FOOD HALL
1821 2nd Ave N 205.730.9177
1312 Cobb Lane 205.939.1312 THE STANDARD AT PIZITZ FOOD HALL
1821 2nd Ave N 205.730.1922
2021 Park Place 205.322.2100
808 20th Street S 205.933.9000
2101 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. 205.307.3005 1901 6th Ave. N 205.250.9907
1035 20th Street S 205.933.8035 BETTOLA
BIRMINGHAM BREADWORKS
BISTRO 218
BOGUE’S
BOTTEGA RESTAURANT AND CAFE
BRICK & TIN RESTAURANT
214 20th Street N 205.297.8636
1821 2nd Ave N
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SPORTS LODGE BEST KITCHEN IN SPORTS
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TWIN PEAKS HOOVER 4330 Creekside Ave Hoover, AL 35244 (205) 203-9461
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TWIN PEAKS PENSACOLA TWIN PEAKS MONTGOMERY 6814 Eastchase Pkwy 4952 Bayou Blvd Montgomery, AL 36117 Pensacola, FL 32503 (334) 513-1244 (850) 696-6242
twinpeaksrestaurants.com
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EXCURSIONS 57
LOCALDINING CAFE DUPONT
T O R T I L L A
G R I L L
Cantina Tortilla Grill 2901 2nd Avenue South, Ste. 110, Birmingham, AL 205.323.6980; cantinabirmingham.com
1901 6th Ave. N, Ste. 263 205.801.9600
CANTINA LAREDO
GOLDEN TEMPLE GROCERY, CAFE AND YOGA CENTER
2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.502.0915 CARLILE’S BARBECUE
3511 6th Ave. S 205.254.9266
CASEY’S SPORTS GRILL
2101 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. 205.307.3050 CHAN LEE’S
1901 6th Ave. N, # 256 205.252.2426 CHEZ FONFON
2007 11th Ave S, Birmingham 205.939.3221 CHINA MOON
3310 Clairmont Ave S, 205.324.2332 CHRIS Z’S
2808 University Blvd, 205.458.1007 DAWSON’S BURGERS, WINGS & FRIES
1617 4th Ave N, 205.324.3342
DREAMLAND BAR-B-QUE
1427 14th Ave S, Birmingham 205.933.2133 EASTWEST
2306 2nd Ave N 205.202.4496
Cantina Tortilla Grill has been serving up made-fresh-daily Mexican food in a laid back, fun atmosphere for more than 12 years. Whether you’re enjoying a Prickly Pear Margarita or any of their celebrated tacos, you’ll find a simple yet distinctive culinary experience every time you visit. From their famous tacos and guacamole to the inventive daily specials, their menu options are sure to satisfy every palette. The dining room in the Martin Biscuit Co. location is the perfect space to unwind and catch the game. The expansive outdoor patio is perfect for small gatherings or meeting friends and clients for lunch or dinner. Join them Monday through Friday for Happy Hour 3-6 p.m. Fresh food. More fun. That’s the Cantina way. HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Friday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
On the Menu El Cubano - Cuban Sandwich with Serrano ham, roasted pork, manchego cheese, pickles & sour cream Fish Taco - Egg washed tilapia filet, slaw, avocado, cilantro mayo, chile de arbol salsa
58 EXCURSIONS
GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE
113 20th Street N 205.322.1282
EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY -
505 20th Street N 205.488.9393
EL BARRIO MEXICAN RESTAURANT
1901 11th Ave S 205.933.6333
GREEN ACRES CAFÉ
1705 4th Ave N 205.251.3875
GUS’S HOT DOGS
1915 4th Ave N 205.251.4540
HARVEST RESTAURANT & BAR
2101 5th Ave N 205.957.6828
HATTIE B’S HOT CHICKEN
2808 7th Ave S 205.578.6018
HIGHLANDS BAR & GRILL
2011 11th Ave. S 205.939.1400
HOT AND HOT FISH CLUB
2180 11th Court S 205.933.5474
HOT DIGGITY DOGS
430 41st Street S 205.202.2363 HOT BOX
4036 5th Ave. S 205.224.5632 IKKO JAPANESE FUSION
1909 11th Ave S 205.203.4833
INSOMNIA COOKIES
1919 11th Ave. S 205.266.9540
IRON CITY BIRMINGHAM
2211 2nd Ave N 205.868.3737
513 22nd Street S 205.202.5483
FANCY’S ON 5TH
JACK BROWN’S BEER & BURGER JOINT
430 41st Street S 205.777.3662 FARM BURGER
707 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd S. 205.502.2588
2811 7th Ave. S 205.203.4512
JIM ‘N NICK’S BAR -B-Q .
FEAST & FOREST
Five Points South 1908 11th Ave. S 205.320.1060
FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE
112 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.322.6014
GABLE SQUARE SALOON & GAMES
1924 11th Ave S 205.224.5775
212 24th Street N 205.920.1862 525 25th Street S 205.324.1007 803 9th Court S 205.251.0960
JOHN’S CITY DINER
LITTLE ITALY’S PIZZA & PINTS
LOS AMIGOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT
GABRIELLA’S RESTAURANT
3324 Clairmont Ave. S 205.324.5896
GALLEY AND GARDEN
401 19th Street S 205.214.0964
317 17th Street N 205.983.7249
2220 Highland Ave. S 205.939.5551
GIUSEPPE’S CAFE AND EXPRESSO BAR
925 8th Street S 205.324.2626
LOS JUANES
LUCY’S COFFEE & TEA
2007 University Blvd. 205.328.2007
M & M BARBECUE & CAFETERIA
3921 1st Ave N 205.592.9941
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LOCALDINING
5 POINT PUBLIC HOUSE OYSTER BAR
PHOTOS: @BIG SWEDE FOOD
A
t 5 Point Public House Oyster Bar find a new, fresh take on seafood and more from celebrated chef and owner George Reis. Although just next door to his f lagship Ocean restaurant, the new venture could not be more different in its offerings, allowing Reis to venture outside of the seafoodcentric world of Ocean and exercise his creativity. The offerings include an oyster bar that serves only Southeastern coastal oysters as well as sushi, but also decidedly non-seafood items, like
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oven breads, chicharrones nachos and a variety of specialty burgers that are quickly becoming one of the biggest draws to the restaurant. Influences come from a variety of items, recipes, countries and cultures, with mashups that only a chef of Reis’ vision could put together. 5 Point Public House also allows Reis to dive into the craft beer scene that has swept through the Magic City in recent years, with more than 40 craft beer offerings, two dozen draft beers available along side a number of cocktails and eight keg-style wines on tap to pair with the eclectic food offerings. The new gastropub focuses on good food served in a casual, pub-like setting, where the focus is on quality and comfort for the patrons.
Their unique craft beer delivery system pumps your favorite craft to your own personal tap at the pub table...very cool indeed.
1210 20th Street South Birmingham, AL 35205 205.918.0726 5pointpublichouse.com @5pointpublichouseoysterbar Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.
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LOCALDINING MAGIC CITY GRILLE
2201 3rd Ave N 205.251.6500 MAGIC WOK
Makarios Kabob & Grill 940 20th Street S, Birmingham 35205; 205.731.7414 2931 Columbiana Rd, Vestavia Hills 35216; 205.979.6495 makarioskabob.com
200 20th Street N 205.320.2824
MAKI FRESH
PHO PHO VIETNAMESE & SUSHI BAR
420 20th Street N, Ste. 100A 205.458.4040 MARILYN’S DELI & DOGS
1025 20th Street S 205.703.8929
MCALISTER’S GOURMET DELI
2000 2nd Ave. N 205.252.4899
MELLOW MUSHROOM
1106 12th Street S 205.328.2749
MELT RESTAURANT
2820 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N 205.328.1515
MILO’S HAMBURGERS
1701 1st Ave S 205.518.0025
MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ
1225 20th Street S 205.933.6983
715 18th St. N 205.324.3354
1200 20th Street S, Ste. 100 205.212.9420 4105 4th Ave. S 205.917.5000
401 19th Street S, Ste. 130 205.322.6456 731 29th Street S 205.252.5888
MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL – UAB
1801 4th Ave S, Suite 109 205.250.6355 MOJO’S PUB & GRILL
2801 7th Ave. S 205.703.0933 MOON SHINE
1928 1st Ave N 205.731.3600
PIT BAR-B-Q THE NUMBER ONE
PLANET SMOOTHIE
RANELLI’S DELI & CAFE
REVELATOR COFFEE COMPANY
1826 3rd Ave. N RIB IT UP
830 1st Ave. N 205.328.7427 ROJO
2921 Highland Ave. S 205.328.4733 SAIGON NOODLE AVONDALE
NELSON BROTHERS CAFE
600 31st Street N 205.252.7357
314 17th Street N 205.254.9098
NEW CHINA TOWN RESTAURANT
1020 20th Street S 205.251.2373 NEWK’S EATERY
611 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. S 205.323.0992
View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
214 18th Street N 205.703.9757
NIKI’S DOWNTOWN CAFE
O’CARR’S
60 EXCURSIONS
PITA STOP CAFE BAR & GRILL
MUGSHOTS GRILL AND BAR
2311 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd. N, Ste. 100, 205.933.7575
1101 2nd Ave. N 205.251.1972
Appetizers: Baba Ghannooj, Hommous with Veggies, Sauteed Lamb with Mushroom Entrees: Shish Kabob, Grape Leaves Dinner, Shawarma Plate Seafood: Salmon Ghallaba, Sauteed Swordfish, Shish Shrimp, BBQ Shrimp Vegetarian Options Available
PITA LOCO
3719 3rd Ave s 205.986.8898
HOURS OF OPERATION: Sunday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 1 a.m.
On the Menu
PARAMOUNT
401 19th Street S 205.327.5000
1801 4th Ave S 205.933.2828
Discover Makarios Kabob and experience the jewel of Middle Eastern traditional authentic cuisine. Makarios Kabob is known for its bright flavors, freshness, delicate marinades for chicken, lamb and beef kabobs which rely on the essential combinations of fresh lemon, aromatic olive oils and fragrant spices. Markarios serves delicious selections such as lamb or beef shish kabob, lamb chops, sautéed lamb and beef, classic or zesty ghallaba, shawarma plates and so much more. Makarios’ friendly staff will help guide your experience
OVENBIRD
2810 3rd Ave. S 205.957.6686
OCTANE
2211 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd., N 205.545.5076 O’HENRY’S COFFEES
1901 6th Ave. N Ste. 295 205.323.1198 ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE
1931 11th Ave. S 205.933.8837
OSCAR’S AT THE MUSEUM
2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd. 205.254.2565
SARRIS RESTAURANT
SEEDS LAKEVIEW
2808 7th Ave S 205.312.9947 SHIKI
300 Hailman Hill E 205.783.5222 SHU SHOP
1820 3rd Ave N 205.291.6660 SILVERTRON CAFÉ
3813 Clairmont Ave. S 205.591.3707 SITAR INDIAN RESTAURANT
729 20th Street S 205.323.6500 SKY CASTLE
2808 7th Ave. S 205.578.6080 SOL’S SANDWICH SHOP & DELI
2 20th Street N, Ste. 120 205.244.7657 SURIN WEST
1918 11th Ave. S 205.324.1928 SWEET TEA RESTAURANT
2205 3rd Ave. S, 205.745.3990
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LOCALDINING
THE FILLING STATION PIZZA CAFE & BAR
F
or more than forty years, the building which now houses The Filling Station Pizza Cafe & Bar in the Crestwood neighborhood of Birmingham, was a full-service gas station—the kind where they actually pumped your gas for you and cleaned your windshield. Starting in 2015, the chef and his staff at The Filling Station now pump out a broad range of appetizers, handmade pizzas and calzones, pasta dishes and sandwiches that are sure
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to satisfy any craving you have. The old service bays are now filled with tables and a bar. Behind the bar is an intricate system of taps that deliver cold locallyand internationally-brewed beers without any temperature loss from the keg. The Filling Station is perfect to visit anytime of the year, but when the weather is mild, the garage doors are 5524 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35212 205.592.3455 @thefillingstationbham
open and patrons enjoy the expansive covered patio. Sports fans appreciate the multitude of HDTV screens to keep them in tune with their favorite teams. In case you are the nostalgic type, there is even a vintage gas station pump—but the only fuel you get here now is the fantastic food, fine drinks, service with a smile and fun folks. Sunday - Wednesday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Thursday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. thefillingstationbham.com View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 61
LOCALDINING
HOT
T-BONES
✯✯✯ ★★★
★★★
T A M ALES
Delta Blues Hot Tamales 1318 Cobb Lane, Birmingham, AL 35205 205.502.7298 deltablueshottamales.com @DBHT_Bham
@deltablueshottamales
1017 20th St. S, Birmingham 205.582.9993 TAJ INDIA
2226 Highland Ave. S 205.939.3805 TED’S RESTAURANT
328 12th Street S 205.324.2911,
BAJA CALIFORNIA CANTINA & GRILL
THE GRILL AT IRON CITY
513 22nd Street S 205.202.5483
THE PIZITZ FOOD HALL
1821 2nd Ave N 205.639.0108
THE RED CAT COFFEEHOUSE
2901 2nd Ave. S, Ste. 120 205.616.8450 THE ROUGAROUX
817 39th St S. 205.518.6677
THE SOUTHERN KITCHEN AND BAR
2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Ste. 1C, 205.278.7280
On the Menu Appetizers: Crossroads Queso, Butterbean Hummus, Sausage Plate, Wings Entrees: Tamales, Tacos, Delta Catfish, Smothered Chicken Melt, Chicken Fried Chicken Vegan Menu: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Taco, Butterbean Hummus, Black Bean Tamales, Fresh Fruit Cobbler
62 EXCURSIONS
ZOE’S KITCHEN
1819 5th Ave. N 205.252.5200
THE FISH MARKET RESTAURANT
THE GARAGE CAFE
View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
YOUR PIE
2311 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.202.5598
FULTONDALE, GARDENDALE, NORTHWEST, TRUSSVILLE
2304 10th Terrace S 205.322.3220
HOURS OF OPERATION Tuesday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday: 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
2328 2nd Ave N 205.957.6545
TEXAS DE BRAZIL
2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Ste. 100, 205.588.8333 612 22nd Street S 205.322.3330
If you’re in the mood for some great southern food, then Delta Blues Hot Tamales is the place to dine. Delta Blues is your choice for spicy pork and black bean tamales, catfish, Italian sausage, smoked wings, crawfish étouffée, red beans and rice and so much more. Locally owned and operated by Adam and Fawn Freis, Delta Blues was developed by their inspiration to create a menu that is peanut-free, soy-free, gluten-free and is also accessible to vegetarians, vegans and people with other food allergies. Take advantage of the private parking located on the corner of 20th Street and 14th Avenue South.
YO’ MAMA’S RESTAURANT & CATERING
THE YARD BIRMINGHAM
1928 1st Ave N 205.226.9298
TODD ENGLISH P.U.B.
2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.307.3700 TOPGOLF
1111 24th Street S 205.847.5757
961 Main Street 205.285.8881 CAFE ON MAIN
218 Main Street, Ste. 110 205.655.0330 CAJUN STEAMER BAR AND GRILL
5071 Pinnacle Square 205.655.6008 CHINA KITCHEN
437 Caldwell Dr, Warrior 205.647.7055 CHINA ONE
357 Walker Chapel Plaza, Fultondale 205.849.9111 CHOCOLATE BISCUIT TEA ROOM
335 Main St, Trussville 205.655.0119 COSTA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
5891 Trussville Crossings Pkwy. 205.655.9779 EL CAZADOR
1930 Edwards Lake Road 205.661.0904 FAYE’S FAMOUS FRANKS
1214 Decatur Hwy 205.849.8308
GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE TRUSSVILLE
TRATTORIA CENTRALE
120 South Chalkville Road 205.655.4849
WALL STREET DELI
5614 Chalkville Road 205.856.2424
WASABI JUAN’S
835 Odum Road, Ste. 115 205.608.2168
WINGS AROUND THE CLOCK
1477 Gadsden Hwy., Ste 126 205.655.7380
WOODLAWN CYCLE CAFE
325 Walker Chapel Plaza 205.849.2137
URBAN STANDARD
1644 Forestdale Plaza 205.798.3565
YEHMAN CARRIBBEAN CUISINE
915 Odum Road 205.608.3315
207 20th Street N 205.202.5612 535 21st Street S 205.323.7966 4120 3rd Ave. S 205.703.8891
801 20th Street S 205.581.8088 5530 1st Ave. S 205.224.4011
2320 2nd Ave. N 205.250.8200 1623 4th Ave. N 205.323.3120
GYROS CAFÉ
HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL
HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL
JALISCO MEXICAN RESTAURANTE
JIM DEERMAN’S BARBEQUE
JIM N NICK’S BAR-B-Q .
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PHOTO: PHOTO:
TACO MORRO LOCO
417 41st Street S 205.203.4849
LOCALDINING
OCEAN
PPHOTOS: (TOP) BRENT BOYD; (MIDDLE) BIG SWEDE FOOD PHOTO:
V
oted Best Restaurant, Best Chef and the recipient of AAA Four Diamond Award for the past ten years, Ocean offers fresh seafood in an exciting and contemporary atmosphere. The bold seafood menu at Ocean makes the restaurant a premier location for fine dining in Birmingham. Ocean is widely known as one of the city’s crown jewels as accolades have been heaped on the restaurant, chef and owner George Reis and on the restaurant’s fine wine offerings. Many patrons stop by for a signature martini at the newly renovated white marble topped bar. The beautiful environment, paired with one of Ocean’s signature
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cocktails, is a perfect way to start the night. Other locals head straight to the Raw Bar for seafood offerings not found anywhere else in the city. From the imposing Seafood Tower that showcases most of the Raw Bar’s offerings to the various oysters, lobster, crab legs and mussels served at the bar, it is a wonderful taste of what Ocean has in store. The casual atmosphere of the patio dining area is perfect for a low-key night out with friends or entertaining clients, but be sure to sample the award-winning and recently restyled dining experience inside as well. Any seafood lover is certain to find their favorite on the menu, whether it be shrimp or one of the restaurant’s whole fish offerings, which changes daily. For those who aren’t in a seafood mood, Reis offers a cooked-toperfection Hereford filet mignon as well as a number of salads and desserts
that will satisfy any craving. Located in the historic Five Points South area, Ocean is at the center of the city’s entertainment and culinary center. Reservations are encouraged and there’s ample seating at the bar.
1218 20th Street South Birmingham, AL 35205 205.933.0999 oceanbirmingham.com @oceanbirmingham Tuesday-Saturday: 5:30-10:30 p.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 63
LOCALDINING
1660 Gadsden Hwy 205.661.3100
4426 4th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222 205.643.5956 tropicaleo.com @tropicaleobham
5800 Valley Rd, Ste. 110, Trussville 205.655.5260
KONOMI
5961 Chalkville Mountain Lane 205.874.6804
KUMO
592 Fieldstown Rd 205.285.8556
5870 Trussville Crossings Blvd, 205.661.1821 835 Odum Rd 205.285.5250 LONE STAR STEAKHOUSE & SALOON
4720 Norrel Drive, Trussville 205.661.9339 MILO’S HAMBURGERS
604 Fieldstown Rd, Gardendale 205.608.0050 MILO’S HAMBURGERS - TRUSSVILLE
5887 Trussville Crossing Pkwy 205.661.2100 MING’S GARDEN
1046 Main St, Gardendale 205.631.7746 MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL
5870 Trussville Crossing Blvd, 205.655.9669 NEIGHBORHOOD SPORTS GRILLE
1423 Gadsden Hwy., Ste. 131 205.655.1018 ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ
1200 Main Street 205.745.4888 OUR PLACE
1218 Main Street 205.608.1030
Tropicaleo is a fast-casual Puerto Rican restaurant that focuses on serving authentic dishes made with the freshest local ingredients. It started as a pop-up shop and grew into Birmingham’s only Puerto Rican restaurant that provides vegan, paleo and gluten-free options that are great and beat any little salad (try their gluten-free Jibarito or Mofongo). Tropicaleo is the greatest food concept to debut in Birmingham this century; it’s like traveling to a Caribbean Island for dinner. Instead of the regular meat and potato for lunch or dinner, visit Tropicaleo for real Puerto Rican food made with FLAVOR and authentic Puerto Rican flair! HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday – Friday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Breakfast daily; Brunch on Saturdays See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
PALACE CHINESE RESTAURANT
Cubano Sandwich, Tostones, Mofongo Balls, Guava Pastelillo, Coffee, Fountain Drinks and Cocktails Dine inside or out on the patio
SOUTHERN DINER
SUSHI VILLAGE
WINTZELL’S OYSTER HOUSE
3339 Lowery Pkwy. 205.453.8585
AIRPORT, CENTER POINT, CRESTWOOD, IRONDALE, LEEDS CRESTWOOD TAVERN
5500 Crestwood Blvd. 205.510.0053
THE FILLING STATION CAFE & BAR
5524 Crestwood Blvd 205.592.3455
CRESTWOOD COFFEE COMPANY
5512 Crestwood Blvd. 205.595.0300
EL CAZADOR MEXICAN GRILL
1540 Montclair Road 205.951.1205
GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE
2504 Crestwood Blvd. 205.956.2678
GREEN ACRES CAFE CENTER POINT
2405 Center Point Pkwy 205.815.0409
GREEN ACRES CAFE EAST LAKE
5899 Trussville Crossing Pkwy, Suite 105, Trussville 205.661.1668
8500 1st Ave N, Suite B 205.836.9797
PASQUALE’S PIZZA & PASTA
1819 Crestwood Blvd 205.956.4648
PORKY’S PRIDE SMOKE HOUSE
5415 Beacon Drive, Ste. 139 205.956.6622
RED LANTERN CHINESE RESTAURANT
1676 Montclair Road 205.956.2550
215 Fieldstown Rd, Gardendale 205.631.5972 2516 Walker Chapel Road 205.849.5122
311 Main Street, Trussville 205.655.0736 RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS & SPIRITS
5029 Pinnacle Square 205.661.0492 ROCK N ROLL SUSHI
On the Menu
SHERRY’S CAFÉ CATERING CAKES
JOEL’S RESTAURANT
312 Main Street 205.655.8248
Tropicaleo
SEAFOOD AND CHICKEN BOX
5954 Chalkville Road 205.655.7414
5078 Pinnacle Square, Ste. 106 205.655.6040 SANPEGGIO’S PIZZA
7270 Gadsden Hwy, Suite 100, Trussville 205.655.3399
GREEN ACRES CAFE IRONDALE
GUS’S HOT DOGS
HACIENDA MEXICAN GRILL
HAMBURGER HEAVEN
1703 Crestwood Blvd. 205.951.3570
IRONDALE CAFÉ, THE ORIGINAL WHISTLESTOP CAFE
1906 1st Ave. N 205.956.5258
RUSTY’S BAR-B-Q
7484 Pkwy. Drive 205.699.4766
SHANGRI.LA RESTAURANT
4500 Montevallo Road, Ste. B103 205.951.3168
SANPEGGIO’S PIZZA
2657 Valleydale Rd, Suite 100 205.437.8300
64 EXCURSIONS
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PHOTO:
JIM N NICK’S BAR-B-Q TRUSSVILLE
LOCALDINING
THE J. CLYDE
PHOTOS: PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
T
here’s no place like The J. Clyde. With Birmingham’s largest heated covered patio, you can eat outside rain or shine! Serving better beers since 2007, the kitchen strives to match its beer list with pub fare like handcrafted burgers and chicken fingers. On Historic Cobb Lane, the newly renovated front bar is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Birmingham. Add in a German-style biergarten and a Parisian street café, and there’s a little space for everyone. The J. Clyde is the original home
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for craft beer in Birmingham and offers the finest ales and lagers in Alabama. The back bar features 17 brews carefully selected from Alabama breweries including their own, 5 Pts Brewing. 43 additional taps on the front wall house an incredible selection of beers from Brussels to San Diego. If beer isn’t your thing, The J. Clyde also has an extensive wine, spirit and mixed drink list, including the Alabama Honeymoon, a cocktail featuring the finest Alabama moonshine and a locally-brewed Honey Brown Ale. The pub menu features items from fish and chips to pizza, burgers, and sandwiches. For those interested in exploring craft beer, The J. Clyde offers f lights featuring four-ounce snifters that
can be paired with items from the appetizer menu complementing the ale and lager offerings, including a seasonal cheese platter, fried green tomatoes and their world famous Sauerkraut Balls. 1312 Cobb Lane Birmingham, AL 35205 205.939.1312 jclyde.com Hours of Operation: Monday - Wednesday 2 p.m. - 12 a.m. Thursday - Saturday 2 p.m. - 2 a.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 65
LOCALDINING CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL
1830 29th Avenue South, Homewood, AL 35209 205.423.8080; sohosocial.bar @sohosocialhomewood
900 Jemison Lane 205.802.9050
GRILLE 29
1911 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205.870.7011
LUCKY CAT ROLLLED CREAMS
81 Church Street, Ste. 106-107 205.870.1117
MAFIAOZA’S
216 Summit Blvd., Ste. 135 205.977.4224
MARKET TABLE HOMEWOOD
587 Brookwood Village 205.259.1980
MISS DOTS
1909 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205.870.5584
MUDTOWN EAT & DRINK
COSTA’S FAMOUS BAR-B-QUE WILDWOOD
971 Brookwood Village 205.783.1295
2908 18th Street South, Homewood 205.407.4500 2 Dexter Ave, Mtn Brook 205.414.7878 1830 29th Ave S, Ste. 175 205.769.6080
49 Church Street, Mtn Brook 205.739.2232
AMORE RISTORANTE ITALIANO
ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE
2418 Montevallo Road 205.871.7849 AVO
2721 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205.871.8212 BIG BAD BREAKFAST
On the Menu Pork Belly Lollipops - “red hills mild brown” braised + finished crispy with choice of exotic sauces.
5361 Highway 280 205.490.7568
BILLY’S SPORTS GRILL
2012 Cahaba Road 205.879.2238
BLACK MARKET BAR
3411 Colonnade Parkway, Ste 80 205.967.8787 BLACK PEARL ASIAN CUISINE
3439 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 600 205.262.9888 BLOWFISH SUSHI & ASIAN CUISINE
4643 Hwy. 280, Ste. M 205.980.9891
CRAZY CAJUNS’ BOILING POT
125 Inverness Plaza 205.408.0630
CRESTLINE BAGEL AND PIZZA
66 Church Street, Ste. B 205.871.4583
DAVENPORT’S PIZZA PALACE
2837 Cahaba Road 205.879.8603 DAVE’S PIZZA
1819 29th Ave. S, 205.871.3283 DEMETRI’S BAR.B.Q
1901 28th Ave. S 205.871.1581
DEVINCI’S PIZZA
2707 18th Street S 205.879.1455 DISH’N IT OUT
1113 Dunston Ave, Birmingham 205.871.5444 DRAM WHISKEY BAR
2721 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205.871.8212 DG
2837 Culver Rd 205.871.3266
BONGIORNO
230 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste. 300 205.408.3880
BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE
121 Oak Street 205.834.8257
Avocado Dos Formas- primero: half avocado + tuna ceviche segundo: baked avocado + hot crab dip Steak and Fries - smoked hangar + crab butter + hand-cut fries + maple bacon brussels.
591 Brookwood Village 205.879.9177
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CONTINENTAL BAKERY
5479 Hwy 280, Birmingham 205.739.2277 68 Church Street, Ste. A, 205.879.5947
The Other Turkey - buttercrunch lettuce + goat cheese + blackberry reduction + bourbon-glazed onions + radish
COCINA SUPERIOR
COURTYARD 280 OYSTER BAR & GRILL
5510 Hwy. 280, Ste. 116 205.437.1005
See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
CHUY’S RESTAURANT
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
1830 29th Ave S, Ste. 160 205.423.8080
HOURS OF OPERATION
CHURCH STREET COFFEE & BOOKS
215 Lakeshore Pkwy. 205.263.0145
SOHO SOCIAL HOMEWOOD
Sunday - Friday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
CHEZ LULU
3144 Green Valley Road 205.967.3300 2300 Woodcrest Place 205.879.9995
A local bar and grill centered around Homewood and Birmingham. With a unique spin on American classics, we offer a familiar and yet fresh experience with neighborhood friendly service.
CHARBAR NO. 7
ELI’S JERUSALEM GRILL
4673 US Hwy 280 205.637.3658
Soho Social Homewood
4503 Riverview Pkwy. 205.980.1016
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN
238 Summit Blvd., Ste. B 205.298.7931
DON PEPE MEXICAN GRILL
DYRON’S LOWCOUNTRY
EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY
3407 Colonnade Pkwy. 205.968.4031
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PHOTO:
HOMEWOOD, CAHABA HEIGHTS, MOUNTAIN BROOK, INVERNESS
LOCALDINING
ROGUE TAVERN
PHOTOS: PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
R
ogue Tavern is the perfect blend of restaurant and bar, offering daily specials along with fresh and tasty crowd-pleasing vittles. Inspired by a love for great music and mouth-watering food, Rogue Tavern is the place in downtown Birmingham to grab a great meal and listen to live music. The food offerings range from typical bar menu items, like quesadillas, burgers and sliders to local favorites like fried chicken, shrimp and grits and pot roast, all served with Rogue Tavern’s special seasonings and sides. Even if you’re just there for a beer and a show, the appetizer offerings might attract your attention, from the
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specialty wings and fried dill pickles to the hummus trio and lettuce wraps or even the fried oysters or Gulp Lump Crabmeat Cake, you are sure to be pleased with the “starter” menu. The expansive bar serves up the best craft beers (24 on tap) and every kind of cocktail you can dream up, while the friendly wait staff and bartenders see to it that you have a great time. The beer offerings include local favorites from Good People, Back Forty and Trim Tab, as well as other spectacular brews from around the world. If you aren’t as adventurous in your beer tastes, Rogue Tavern 2312 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham, AL 205.202.4151; roguetavern.com @RogueTavern
also offers traditional favorites like Budweiser, Miller and Coors. If beer isn’t your thing, Rogue Tavern’s bartenders can whip up a special drink, suited just for your tastes. And don’t miss the desserts, from Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee to Key lime pie or the homemade brownie, they are the perfect excuse to enjoy Rogue’s atmosphere just a little longer. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter for the very latest information or go to the website for menu and list of upcoming events.
Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 67
LOCALDINING
EL SOL CANTINA & TAQUERIA
328 Valley Ave. 205.945.4900
Grille 29 971 Brookwood Village, Birmingham, Alabama 35209 205.783.1295 grille29.com/birmingham @grille29_Bham
FISH MARKET RESTAURANT
5407 Hwy. 280 205.980.8600
FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE AND WINE BAR
103 Summit Blvd. 205.262.9463
FULL MOON BAR.B.QUE
2902 18th St S 205.802.2711
FULL MOON BAR.B.QUE
903 Broadway St 205.877.8058
THE GARDENS CAFE BY KATHY G.
KOBE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR
2612 Lane Park Road 205.871.1000
GEORGE’S LEBANESE & AMERICAN CUISINE
HOURS OF OPERATION Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9.30 p.m. Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday Brunch 10 a.m - 2 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
On the Menu Baked Maryland Crab Dip - Lump crab cheese dip with home-baked crostini Filet Mignon - Grilled certified Choice Hereford served with jumbo asparagus, 7oz. cut Jumbo Lump Crabcakes - Pan roasted Maryland-style, served with fresh asparagus
68 EXCURSIONS
JOE’S CRAB SHACK
3431 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 500 205.967.0099
4635 Hwy. 280 S 205.991.7328
Join us for lunch, dinner, or brunch—including our new Saturday Brunch starting at 10 a.m.—and enjoy 50% off Happy Hour specials Monday through Friday from 3 - 6 p.m.
JINSEI SUSHI BAR & LOUNGE
1830 29th Ave. S, Ste. 125 205.802.1440
FOODBAR
337 Valley Ave., 205.945.9997
Grille 29 is located at Brookwood Village on Village Lane at the edge of Macy’s parking. We are centrally located between Vestavia, Homewood and Mountain Brook just off Hwy 280 or Hwy 31 and just down Lakeshore Drive from Interstate 65.
JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q . HOMEWOOD
220 Oxmoor Road 205.942.3336
20 Meadow View Drive 205.981.2999
3156 Heights Village 205.876.8100
Grille 29 is Birmingham’s best combination of location, casual atmosphere and great food.
JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q . GREYSTONE
2831 Greystone Commercial Blvd. 205.991.1306
FLIP MODERN BURGER BOUTIQUE
220 Summit Blvd., Ste. 140 205.968.2000
Perfect for lunch, a casual dinner, drinks and appetizers after work or for Birmingham’s hottest weekend brunch. Grille 29 has something on our menu for everyone. You don’t have to be dressed up or wait for a special occasion, just bring your appetite.
JACKSON’S BAR & BISTRO
1831 28th Ave. S, Ste. 175 205.870.9669
44 Green Springs Hwy. 205.942.1962
JOHNNY RAY’S BAR.B.QUE
JOHNNY’S RESTAURANT
JOJO’S ON BROADWAY
3501 Grandview Pkwy. 205.298.0200 KOSHER CAFE
3960 Montclair Road 205.386.3130 LA PAZ RESTAURANTE
GIANMARCO’S
99 Euclid Ave. 205.879.2225
GINZA SUSHI & KOREAN BBQ
293 West Valley Ave. 205.290.0511
HABITAT FEED & SOCIAL
139 State Farm Pkwy. 205.916.0777
HAMBURGER HEAVEN
2821 Central Ave. 205.703.7000
HERO DOUGHNUTS
5301 Hwy. 280 S 205.991.5530
HOLLER AND DASH
920 Lane Parke Ct 205.900.8672
HOMEWOOD DINER
2800 Cahaba Village Plaza 205.970.3242
HOMEWOOD GOURMET
3431 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 400 205.968.7600
HUNAN CUISINE
920 Inverness Corners 205.981.9914
721 Broadway Street 205.871.9622 5291 Valleydale Road, Ste. 101 205.981.1616 2655 Lane Park Rd 205.203.4745 5303 Hwy. 280 205.981.6402
3027 Centrai Ave 205.623.1017
2801 18th Street S, Homewood 205.414.0999 162 Oxmoor Road 205.941.9444
1919 28th Ave S, #103, Homewood 205.871.1620 5510 Hwy. 280 S, Ste. 113 205.437.1000 IXTAPA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
4673 Hwy. 280 205.980.8266
IZ CAFÉ ENGLISH VILLAGE
2037 Cahaba Road 205.414.0081
LA SABROSITA
LANDRY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE
LITTLE DONKEY TAQUERIA
LLOYD’S RESTAURANT
LOCAL TACO
MAKI FRESH
MAX’S DELI
MELLOW MUSHROOM – HWY 280
MICHAEL’S RESTAURANT @ ALOFT HOTEL
1903 29th Ave. S 205.871.9525 MING’S CUISINE
514 Cahaba Park Circle 205.991.3803
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PHOTO:
EDGEWOOD CREAMERY
936 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood 205.874.1999
LOCALDINING
SLICE PIZZA & BREW
PHOTO:
S
lice Pizza & Brew was founded in the heart of the Lakeview District in Birmingham. Started by brothers, Jeff, Chris and Jason Bajalieh, Slice is as local as you can get, from the owners to the ingredients that go into every pizza to the beer on tap. Slice originated as
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a place not just to eat, but to hang out. No matter who you are or where you’re from, you’ll love the food and atmosphere at this local favorite amongst the movers and shakers of Birmingham. Come enjoy the best patio in Lakeview and watch the sun set with us! For more information on Slice, please visit slicebirmingham.com
725 29th Street S Birmingham, AL 35233 205.715.9300 slicebirmingham.com @SliceBirmingham Sunday - Wednesday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday - Saturday 11 a.m. - Midnight View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 69
MISS MYRA’S PIT BARBECUE
3278 Cahaba Heights Road 205.967.6004
MOMMA GOLDBERG’S DELI
2829 18th Street S 205.834.8871
NAJI’S PITA GOURMET RESTAURANT
Market Table 1830 29th Avenue South, Suite 175, Homewood, AL 35209 205.769.6080 market-table.com @markettablebhm @markettable
166 West Valley Ave. 205.945.6001
2812 18th St S 205.871.0046
OAK HILL BAR & GRILL
3161 Cahaba Heights Rd, Ste. 113, 205.969.9690
O’CARR’S DELI
2916 18th Street S 205.871.4901
O’CARR’S DELI
1008 Oxmoor Road 205.879.1937
3150 Cahaba Heights Village Road 205.967.4173 O’HENRY’S COFFEES . DOWNTOWN HOMEWOOD
2831 18th Street S, Homewood 205.870.1198 OLEXA’S
Mountain Brook Village, 2838 Culver Road 205.871.2060 OLIVE BRANCH
3236 Cahaba Heights Road 205.967.4600 OLLIE IRENE
75 Church Street 205.769.6034
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On the Menu Bacon, Egg, Spinach and Tomato Bowl - with mixed greens, avocado and maple dijon vinaigrette Smoked Turkey Sandwich - with provolone, Alecia’s tomato chutney and arugula 14-Hour Brisket - with pickled veggies Fresh-Made Meals and Meal Kits ready to go Proudly serving Alabama farmer’s ingredients whenever possible.
70 EXCURSIONS
SAM’S DELI & GRILL
NEWK’S EATERY
1010 Oxmoor Road 205.871.4000
2909 18th Street S 205.879.2196
HOURS OF OPERATION
SALEM’S DINER
2913 18th Street S 205.877.8797 932 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood 205.871.0383
2835 18th Street S 205.870.8277
Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Order Online
ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL
241 Summit Blvd. 205.298.7998
NEW YORK PIZZA
2800 Cahaba Village Plaza 205.969.5584
Market Table brings joy back to the table with scrumptious breakfast and lunch menus served in their café. They also offer delicious prepared meals, meal kits and a variety of proteins and sides for dinner. In our market, you’ll find wine, desserts and snacks to fulfill any and all cravings.
ROOT TO TAIL
2031 Cahaba Rd 205.730.1699
SAM’S SUPER SANDWICHES
SATTERFIELD’S RESTAURANT
SAVAGE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT
SAW’S BBQ
SAW’S JUKE JOINT
1115 Dunston Ave. 205.745.3920
SEASONS 52 RESTAURANT
245 Summit Blvd. 205.968.5152
STEEL CITY POPS
2821 Central Ave, Homewood 205.803.6502 STEEL CITY POPS
5449 Hwy 280, Birmingham 205.803.6504 STEELE’S
8 Perimeter Park S 205.972.8602 SUPERIOR GRILL
ON TAP SPORTS CAFE INVERNESS
4701 Hwy. 280 S 205.991.5112
OTEY’S TAVERN
16 Perimeter Park S 205.968.8161
OVER EASY
64 Church Street 205.871.4531
PHO QUE HUONG VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT
1014 Oxmoor Rd 205.414.0441
810 Inverness Corners 205.437.1999
224 Country Club Park 205.871.8435 358 Hollywood Blvd. 205.639.1910
430 Green Springs Hwy., Ste. 15 205.942.5400 PURPLE ONION DELI & GRILL
479 Green Springs Hwy., 205.941.9979 RIVER CITY GRILLE
Birmingham Marriott, 3590 Grandview Pkwy. 205.968.3775 REAL & ROSEMARY
1922 29th Ave S, Homewood 205.820.7100 RED PEARL RESTAURANT
243 West Valley Ave 205.945.9558
SURIN 280
SURIN OF THAILAND
TACO MAMA
TAIPEI 101 SUSHI AND ASIAN BISTRO
471 Green Springs Hwy. 205.912.7037 TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE – MOUNTAIN BROOK
2737 Hwy. 280, Ste. 121 205.870.0455 TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE – COLONNADE
3439 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 1700 205.968.6622 THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY
236 Summit Blvd. 205.262.1800
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PHOTO:
LOCALDINING
Table Market Table
PHOTOS: (TOP, CENTER AND LEFT) BRENT BOYD; (RIGHT) CARY NORTON
LOCALDINING
CARRIGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE
L
ocated on historic Morris Avenue, Carrigan’s Public House is the place to experience the best of the Birmingham’s food and craft cocktail scene. Each cocktail at Carrigan’s is hand-crafted and the beer selection includes plenty of locally brewed choices as well as favorites from all over the world. The menu features traditional pub food taken to a higher level with fresh ingredients and everything made in-house from scratch. Go
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decadent with the famous street-style corn dog; grab a fresh, healthy favorite like the Kale Caesar! salad; or embrace an Alabama tradition by ordering a bowl of boiled peanuts steeped in a house blend of spices. The house cut fries are the best in town and done in the traditional Belgian style: crispy on the outside, f luffy on the inside and served with three house-made dipping sauces. From the huge front patios on both the main and upper levels, you can see a bit of over-themountain Birmingham (including the famous Vulcan statue) as well as the historic train yard and cobblestones of Morris Avenue. Ample seating for large parties as well as private spaces for one-on-one conversations make Carrigan’s the perfect spot to grab a
casual lunch with colleagues or rest and recharge. And when the sun goes down, Carrigan’s comes alive with plenty of Birminghamians enjoying great food and city nightlife. 2430 Morris Avenue Birmingham, AL 35203 205.440.2430 carriganspub.com @carriganspub Monday - Saturday: Must be 21+ to enter View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 71
LOCALDINING
17 Dexter Ave 205.803.3585 THE FIG TREE
3160 Cahaba Heights Rd, 205.969.6711 URBAN COOKHOUSE
2846 18th Street 205.879.0883
Mudtown Eat & Drink 3144 Green Valley Road, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205.967.3300; mudtownalabama.com
URBAN COOKHOUSE AT THE SUMMIT
250 Summit Blvd., Ste. 102 205.969.6700 URBAN COOKHOUSE
212 Country Club Park, Mountain Brook, 205.803.3535 VILLAGE TAVERN
101 Summit Blvd. 205.970.1640 VINO
1930 Cahaba Rd 205.870.8404 ZOE’S KITCHEN - CRESTLINE
225 Country Club Park 205.871.0060
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On the Menu Cahaba Chicken Sandwich - Hand-breaded and fried chicken filet tossed in our Cahaba Wing Sauce and topped with ranch coleslaw. Simple and delicious Charleston Shrimp & Grits - A Southern classic from the poorhouse to the penthouse! Tons of flavor here, from the garlic cheese grits to the Andouille sausage, shrimp and vegetables
72 EXCURSIONS
EGG ROLL EXPRESS
100 Bessemer Super Highway Midfield, 205.925.4670 FAIRFIELD SEAFOOD EXPRESS
3710 Richard M Scrushy Pkwy 205.781.4680 GOLDEN DRAGON I
2227 Bessemer Rd 205.788.8730 GUS’S HOT DOGS
224 Brooklane Drive Hueytown 205.491.8565 HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL
3048 Allison Bonnett Memorial Drive 205.491.9974
HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL
4863 Promenade Pkwy., Ste. 103 205.438.1558 HOME PLATE DINER
ZOE’S KITCHEN - HOMEWOOD
ZOE’S KITCHEN - SUMMIT
760 Academy Drive, Ste. 112, Bessemer, 205.428.5878
323 Summit Blvd. 205.967.5800
HOURS OF OPERATION Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9.30 p.m. Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Sunday Brunch 11 a.m - 3 p.m.
3103 Ensley Five Points W Ave 205.781.7837
2780 Allison Bonnett Memorial Drive, 205.744.8855
1830 29th Ave. S, Ste. 155 205.870.1100
They named their restaurant from the nickname given by the Creek Indians in the 1800s. The Native Americans inhabiting the Cahaba River banks, immediately east of the restaurant’s location, nicknamed the area “mudtown” due to the swampy, muddy conditions as a result of heavy rains. Even though they named a restaurant after dirt, the food is fantastic, fresh and fun. The beverages are cold and unique. The atmosphere is inviting and comforting. As you walk in to Mudtown, you will feel the prevailing friendly spirit, smell the enticing aromas from the kitchen and anticipate a quality dining experience served by people who genuinely appreciate you stopping by.
EAST OF THE MISSISSIPPI DINER (LENA’S)
BESSEMER, WEST
JADE GARDEN
JENNIE’S SANDWICH SHOP
331 4th Avenue N, 205.424.3663 J J WINGS
ALL ORIGINAL PIZZERIA
900 Milstead Rd Fairfield 205.783.8610
BOB SYKES BAR-B-Q
1011 9th Ave, Bessemer 205.565.4555
THE BRIGHT STAR
96 Weibel Dr., Midfield 205.923.2016
4760 Eastern Valley Road, Suite 122, McCalla, 205.477.1123 1724 9th Ave. N, Bessemer 205.426.1400, 304 19th Street N, Bessemer 205.426.1861 CHINA KING CHINESE RESTAURANT
4760 Eastern Valley Rd, Suite 102, McCalla, 205.477.8388
J’S WINGS 2
KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS
LOS SOMBERO’S
5031 Ford Pkwy., Ste. 107 205.425.8887 MAIN MOON CHINESE RESTAURANT
CHINA SEA
737 9th Ave N, Bessemer 205.425.7277
CHINA WOK
757 Academy Dr, Bessemer 205.426.1650
CLASSIC BURGER
216 19th Street N, 205.425.1545
DEB’S HOT DOGS
1810 9th Ave N, Birmingham 205.424.9901
EAGLES RESTAURANT
233 Finley Ave. W 205.252.5751
3102 Allison Bonnett Memorial Dr, Hueytown, 205.491.7500 3979 Parkwood Rd, Bessemer, 205.428.8801 1732 15th Street N 205.424.5742 1395 4th Ave SW 205.424.7600
2610 16 Street N, Birmingham 205.320.0099
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - BESSEMER
MR. HOTDOG
MUFFALLETTA’S PIZZA AND PASTA
NIKI’S WEST
RAILROAD CAFE
1205 Lake Dr. SE., Ste. 111 205.424.1073
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PHOTO:
THE PANTRY BY STONE HOLLOW FARMSTEAD
LOCALDINING
ABHI EATERY + BAR
PHOTOS: PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
L
ocated in The Summit shopping complex just south of downtown Birmingham, ABHI Eatery + Bar is a locally-owned Asian Fusion restaurant created by Chef Abhi Sainju and his wife, Ainah. Chef Abhi gained experience in other locally-owned restaurants, honing his skills, spending years developing the menu for ABHI and opened in February 2017. The food is inspired by Abhi’s upbringing in Nepal and his travels throughout the world exploring different techniques and flavors. Abhi first made his mark in Birmingham creating sushi with the freshest and most inventive ingredients available. His reputation as a perfectionist and
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his inventiveness created a near-cult following of locals and visitors, alike. The menu at ABHI ranges from shareables like Momos (Abhi’s house-made dumplings—a house signature dish), beer battered eggplant, Kathmandu Fried Chicken (KFC) Lollipops, and sushi to noodle, ramen and curry bowls. The sheer number of bowls to choose from on the menu is mind-blowing and you will need to visit over and over again to try them all. The bar isn’t anything to overlook either. An award-winning bartender is constantly preparing special concoctions to pair with various items on the menu. Craftily combining fresh fruit juices, nuts and spices to create the base for cocktails that are only available at ABHI. Chef Abhi’s eye for perfection, color and balance transcends the kitchen to the modern yet warm décor of the
dining room and bar. Black cloth covered tables are punctuated by bright orange napkins and warmly lit by candles. The marble-topped wooden bar is stocked with the highest quality spirits from all over the world. Visit ABHI today. 300 Summit Blvd, Ste. 104 Birmingham, AL 35243 205.969.6858 @abhi_restaurant Monday – Thursday: 5 – 9 p.m. Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 73
LOCALDINING SAN ANTONIO GRILL – MCCALLA
4760 Eastern Valley Rd 205.477.1110
SHANGHAI CHINESE RESTAURANT
156 River Square Plaza Hueytown 205.491.4422 SPEEDY’S MEXICAN FOODS
Little Savannah Restaurant & Bar 3811 Clairmont Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222 205.591.1119 littlesavannah.com @littlesavannahrestaurant
CUSTOM’S CAFE
1845 Montgomery Hwy. 205.987.0176 DALE’S SOUTHERN GRILL
1843 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 107, 205.987.4757 DEPOT DELI & GRILL
275 Forest Rd Hueytown 205.744.4659
29 Lake Davidson Ln Helena 205.620.1426
SMOKEHOUSE STEAK & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
DIPLOMAT DELICATESSEN & SPIRITS
348 Finley Ave. W 205.323.6427
TOP THAT GRILLE II
1371 Bessemer Road 205.923.2422 UNCLE SAM’S BARBECUE
3043 Allison Bonnett Memorial Drive, 205.491.1333
1425 Montgomery Hwy, Ste. 101, Vestavia Hills, 205.979.1515 DAVE’S DELI
1615 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 124 205.822.8000 DONATOS PIZZA
629 Montgomery Hwy. 205.824.1112 EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY
TWIN PEAKS
4330 Creekside Ave, Hoover 205.203.9461 ALABAMA BISCUIT
4133 White Oak Drive 205.578.2553 AMIGO’S MEXICAN GRILL
3659 Lorna Rd. 205.682.8090
BAHA BURGER
4745 Chace Cir. 205.682.6980
Since 2003, Alabama native Chef Clifton Holt has been turning the freshest local ingredients into some of the most locally-acclaimed dishes in Birmingham. He only serves the freshest ingredients therefore the menu is always changing. Fresh seafood is almost always on the menu along with varied cuts and selections of farm-fresh beef, pork, veal and chicken. “Knowing where food comes from is paramount to our business and has become the hallmark of our success here in Birmingham,” says Chef Clif. We invite you to experience Little Savannah. RESTAURANT HOURS
BAR HOURS
Tue - Thu 5 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. Fri - Sat 5 p.m.- 10 p.m.
Tue - Thu 4:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Fri - Sat 5 p.m.- 10 p.m.
See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
On the Menu (changes daily) Seafood Paella- Gulf shrimp, calamari, roasted tomato, saffron fumet
BAUMHOWER’S RESTAURANT
4445 Creekside Ave 205.403.7474 BISTRO V
521 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 113 205.823.1505 BILLY’S SPORTS GRILL
4520 Overton Road, Ste. 104 205.956.2323 BLUE PACIFIC AT HOOVER FOOD MART
3219 Lorna Rd 205.978.0754
BLUFF PARK DINER
FISH MARKET RESTAURANT
1681 Montgomery Hwy. 205.823.3474
FORMOSA CHINESE RESTAURANT
2109 Lorna Ridge Dr. 205.900.8021
FRIED GREEN TOMATOES
1615 Montgomery Hwy. 205.824.5000
FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE . HOOVER
2000 Patton Chapel Road 205.822.6666
GABRIEL’S SPIRITED CAFE
3706 Lorna Road 205.985.0983
GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE HOOVER
1571 Montgomery Hwy. 205.823.7770 GREAT WRAPS
2000 Riverchase Galleria, Ste 222 205.985.0810 HAAGEN-DAZS ICE CREAM & YOGURT SHOP
2000 Riverchase Galleria, Ste 210 205.987.6255
BONEFISH GRILL
HABANEROS MEXICAN GRILL. HOOVER
3430 Galleria Circle 205.985.9545 BROCK’S
1601 Montgomery Hwy. 205.979.7772
CAJUN STEAMER BAR AND GRILL
1851 Montgomery Hwy. 205.987.9599
COSTA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
177-A Montgomery Hwy. 205.444.2300
4000 Grand Ave 205.949.3051 180 Main Street, Ste. 200 205.985.7785
14 oz. Hereford Rib Eye - cauliflower puree, Truck Stop fries, mushroom glace, truffle oil
3443 Lorna Road 205.978.1603
74 EXCURSIONS
Patton Creek Shopping Ctr., Hoover 205.733.2002
591 Shades Crest Road 205.824.4320
BHM Burger - roasted jalapeno goat cheese, tomato served with Truck Stop fries
16 Hour Roasted Pork - parmesan grits, stewed tomatoes and okra
FIREBIRDS ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRILL
COZUMEL GRILL & MEXICAN RESTAURANT
HUNAN GARDEN
HUNGRY HOWIE’S PIZZA
ICHIBAN JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE
620 Old Towne Road 205.822.4646
2754 Pelham Pkwy Pelham 205.621.8886
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PHOTO:
HOOVER, VESTAVIA, PELHAM
180 Main Street, Ste. 240 205.987.0790
LOCALDINING
TUTWILER BAR AND GRILL
PHOTOS: PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
T
utwiler Bar and Grill, located inside the fully restored Historic Tutwiler Hotel in downtown Birmingham, is another concept by local restaurateurs, Bobby Lorino and Pat Sanford. The modern, sophisticated styling of the recently remodeled decor is second only to the extensive menu, wine selection and full bar. Open for lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends, the menu offers appetizers like a fresh gulf shrimp cocktail. Lunch choices range from salads with your favorite grilledto-order protein to house-made
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crabcakes, sandwiches and burgers. The menu is elevated for the dinner hour to include fresh seafood dishes, steak choices and a decadent dessert menu. Their extensive wine selection is certain to offer the perfect wine to pair with your meal and dessert. The locally-famous bar area is a mainstay for downtown power brokers during the lunch hour and for cocktails and conversation after the work day ends. Allen, who has been tending bar at the Tutwiler for more than 30 years, pours the finest classic cocktails, craft beer and wine. The Tutwiler Bar and Grill’s main dining is petitioned beyond glass doors for those who prefer a quiet dinner away from the bustle of bar area. Impeccable service with mouthwatering dishes is the hallmark of this local treasure.
2021 Park Place Birmingham, AL 35203 205.322.2100 thetutwilerbarandgrill.com Dining Room Hours: Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Bar Hours: Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. until close Sunday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. with bar menu available View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 75
LOCALDINING
IZ CAFÉ ROCKY RIDGE
2514 Rocky Ridge Road 205.979.7570 J. ALEXANDER’S RESTAURANT
3320 Galleria Circle 205.733.9995
Eli’s Jerusalem Grill 4673 Highway 280, Birmingham, Alabama 35242 205.637.3658 @elisjerusalemgrill
JAKE’S SOULFOOD CAFE HOOVER
3075 John Hawkins Pwky. 205.438.6340
JEFFERSON’S RESTAURANT
4524 Southlake Pkwy 205.989.9464
JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q -
1810 Montgomery Hwy. S 205.733.1300 JUBILEE JOE’S FRESH SEAFOOD MARKET & RESTAURANT
2341 John Hawkins Pkwy., Ste. 119 205.982.7797 JOHNNY BRUSCO’S
2516 Rocky Ridge Road 205.637.5270 KLINGLER’S EUROPEAN BAKERY & CAFE
621 Montgomery Hwy. 205.823.4560 LA FIESTA
1941 Hoover Court, Ste. A 205.979.7314 MICKEY’S GRILL
4524 Southlake Pkwy., Ste. 7 205.538.7637 MOSS ROCK TACOS & TEQUILA
Visit Eli’s Jerusalem Grill for authentic, homemade Israeli cuisine. Eli Markshtien and his wife, Laurel opened the only Israeli restaurant in town in 2014 and the eatery became an instant success. Eli’s serves grass-fed beef, organic chicken, organic wine and uses non-GMO oils. Their produce is naturally-grown from a local farm. Have allergies? Call ahead and Eli’s will make your food in a separate area and keep it in a separate bowl. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options are also available. Eli’s seats 75 people including the outdoor patio. Inside you will find the “Wailing Wall” underneath arches, a colorful collage of market pictures and Israeli music playing. The atmosphere will make you feel as though you are sitting inside the City of Jerusalem. HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday-Friday: 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
On the Menu Homemade soups, hummus, shawarma, kabob, falafel, Moroccan fish, lamb chops, shakshuka, chicken schnitzel, house-made pita, Israeli couscous, Israeli salad, baklava, knefeh, wine, beer and so much more.
76 EXCURSIONS
616 Preserve Pkwy. 205.783.1130
MR. CHEN’S AUTHENTIC CHINESE COOKING
1917 Hoover Ct. 205.824.8283
MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ
181 Main Street, Ste. 201 205.985.8841 MUGSHOTS GRILL & BAR
110 Inverness Plaza 205.995.2902 NEWK’S EATERY
612 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 110 205.777.0442 ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ – GALLERIA
3440 Galleria Circle 205.988.3203
PAZZO BIG SLICE PIZZA
1678 Montgomery Hwy. 205.383.3303 PERFECT NOTE
1845 Montgomery Hwy. 205.986.7280 RAGTIME CAFE
2080 Valleydale Rd 205.988.5323 SALVATORE’S PIZZA
1594 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 102M 205.823.7206
SHANE’S RIB SHACK
2673 Valleydale Road 205.874.6888 SHARKS FISH & CHICKEN
1837 Montgomery Hwy 205.682.3211
SHONOS RESTAURANT
1843 Montgomery Hwy. 205.988.3319
SILVER COIN INDIAN GRILL
3321 Lorna Road 205.823.9070 SOL AZTECA
1360 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 128 205.979.4902 STIX
3250 Galleria Circle 205.982.3070 SUMO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR
151 Main Street 205.444.1515
SWAMP MONSTER BBQ
1843 Montgomery Hwy. 205.403.2076
TABOON NOON O KABAB
1550 Montgomery Hwy. 205.979.1717 TECATE BAR & GRILL
612 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 100 205.823.2399 THE BOOT AT THE GROVE
5532 Grove Blvd. 205.989.7772
THE FISHMARKET RESTAURANT
1681 US 31 Hwy 205.823.3474 THE PITA CAFE
2801 Hwy. 150, Ste. 137J 205.402.7482 THE RIDGE EAT & DRINK
3325 Rocky Ridge Rd 205.917.5080 TIP TOP GRILL
588 Shades Crest Road 205.978.8677 TORTUGAS HOMEMADE PIZZA
2801 John Hawkins Pkwy., Ste. 169R 205.403.9800 VILLA ITALIAN KITCHEN
2000 Riverchase Galleria 205.290.5516
VECCHIA PIZZERAI & MERCATO
610 Preserve Pkwy., Suite 100 205.637.3036
YUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT
2760 John Hawkins Pkwy. 205.402.9888
ZAPATA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
2005 Valleydale Road, Ste. 3 205.733.1115
ZOE’S KITCHEN - PATTON CREEK
180 Main Street, Ste. 140 205.989.4020 ❖
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PHOTO:
IRON HORSE CAFE
1694 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 184 205.978.5599
LOCALDINING
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
PHOTOS: RUTH’S CHRIS PHOTO:
A
n iconic American steak house with New Orleans flare, Ruth’s Chris has been welcoming steak enthusiasts in the Birmingham community for more than 25 years. From important business lunches and after-work networking events to festive dinner celebrations and fashionable cocktail parties, Ruth’s Chris in Birmingham offers the perfect venue for your group.
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Invite your guests to unwind with a selection from the award-winning wine list or a vintage-inspired cocktail. And after just one bite, it will be clear why the Ruth’s Chris brand is synonymous with refined taste, exceptional service and top notch cuisine around the world. Ruth’s Chris in Birmingham boasts a variety of private and semi-private dining options for 10 to 300 guests and is conveniently located between Birmingham’s upscale Homewood and Mountain Brook neighborhoods, near Vulcan Park and Museum, St. Vincent’s Hospital and the Birmingham Zoo.
2300 Woodcrest Place Birmingham, AL 35209 205.879.9995 ruthschris.net @RuthsChrisBHAM Lunch: Daily from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Dinner: Nightly from 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. Private Dining Facilities for up to 300 View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
EXCURSIONS 77
VISITTHEPIZITZFOODHALL
Discover a world of food at THE PIZITZ FOOD HALL
LOCATED IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM’S THEATER DISTRICT is an architectural masterpiece called The
Pizitz. Once home to local family-owned Pizitz Department Store, this magnificent structure has been completely reinvented with condominium living above and the widely-acclaimed Pizitz Food Hall on the main level. The Pizitz Food Hall features merchants whose cuisine and goods range from near and far. The Louis bar is the centerpiece of the Food Hall and offers the finest craft cocktails, local craft beers and more. In addition to the various food stalls, whose culinary offerings range from classic American and Southern to Asian and Middle Eastern, there are also retailers offering the latest trends in eyewear and another offering the best place to grab a Birmingham-themed souvenir. 78 EXCURSIONS
The Pizitz Food Hall merchants invite you to explore the world all under one roof and wish you the best adventures while visiting The Magic City. 1821 Second Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203 205.939.3111 thepizitz.com/food-hall @thepizitz See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for hours, additional photos and links to merchants.
VISITTHEPIZITZFOODHALL
Ghion Cultural Hall 205.730.9177 Monday-Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. While visiting the Pizitz Food Hall, swing into Ghion Cultural Hall Ethiopian Restaurant and try their delicious selections of beef, lamb, chicken and a variety of vegetables and potatoes. Pictured is The Ghion Special; it includes the entire vegan Veggie Plate and has a whole
Eli’s Jerusalem Grill 205.730.9255 Monday-Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Visit Eli’s Jerusalem Grill for authentic homemade Israeli cuisine. Eli Markshtien and his wife, Laurel opened the only Israeli restaurant in town in late 2014 and the eatery became an instant success. Building on that success, they opened a second Eli’s at the Pizitz Food Hall in early 2017. Eli’s at the Pizitz serves grass-fed beef, organic chicken
See their online profile on EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
and uses non-GMO oils. Shawarma (chicken and beef/ lamb), falafel, kabob (chicken, beef, lamb, kefta) and hummus are key items on the menu. Basmati rice, Israeli couscous, Moroccan carrot salad and pita are nearly a dozen sides that supplement the dishes. The produce is naturally grown from a local farm and the menu contains gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options as well. See their profile in the dining section more information.
FERO 205.582.9250 ferorestaurant.com Sunday-Tuesday: 5 - 9 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday: 5 - 10 p.m. Weekend Brunch: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Fero, located in the northwest corner of the Food Hall along 2nd Avenue North, is one of two restaurants in the food hall with its own dining room and offers full service fine dining featuring modern takes on rustic Italian cuisine. Chef Akhtar Nawab (NYC Michelin Bib Gourmand) worked previously in New York City at Gramercy Tavern and Craft, has created such dishes Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
array of meat-stews for you to try. You’ll enjoy the experience of eating the stews with the soft spongy Injera, Ethiopian tangy flatbread. They make it fresh, in-house every day! All their food is halal, kosher and definitely good for you. Enjoy with your friends and family; Ethiopian food is meant to be shared.
as Asparagus Carbonara, Free Rorm ravioli and a Ribeye with mustard seed gnocchi, all which can be enjoyed in either the main 85-seat dining room, private dining room, patio or bar. The bar offers a full complement of cocktails, beer and wines to enjoy. See their online profile on EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
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VISITTHEPIZITZFOODHALL
ONO POKÉ Monday-Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Vietnamese native Vinh Tran, drawing inspiration from his childhood in Hawaii, introduces Birmingham to the classic Hawaiian poké (pronounced ‘po-kay’), an intersection of Japanese and Hawaiian cuisine comprised of raw fish and imported seaweed served on a bed of rice or greens. In its most basic form, it consists of pieces of raw fish marinated in soy sauce,
MO:MO: 205.222.3207 Monday-Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. MO:MO: is a fast-food, street-style eatery by local Chef Abhi Sainju and his wife, Ainah serving local ingredients with Asian spices. The most popular dish and the eatery’s namesake are the momos—steamed Nepalese dumplings with turkey, vegetables and Alabama tomato vinaigrette.
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The streamlined menu also includes Banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich of either pork belly, lemongrass chicken, grilled shrimp or seasonal veggies, served on a crusty baguette with cilantro, pickled carrots, pate, jalapeño, cucumbers and spicy mayo. Be on the lookout for a variety of healthy rice bowls! See their online profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more photos and information.
sesame oil and onions. The traditional Hawaiian food dates back at least a few centuries and picked up a few Japanese influences along the way with immigrants arriving on the islands beginning in 1806. The way poké is served today shows a clear influence of Japanese cuisine both in the marinades and the use of seaweed and other traditional ingredients. Everything is definitely ono, Hawaiian for delicious! See their online profile on EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
VISITTHEPIZITZFOODHALL
The Louis 205.730.9002 Monday-Thursday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m. - 12 a.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Named after Louis Pizitz, the original owner of The Pizitz Building, The Louis is an interior bar serving classic and craft cocktails for any occasion featuring wine and beer as well.
The bartenders take pride in creating both classic and modern concoctions from the freshest ingredients and the finest spirits available. See their online profile on EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
The Standard thestandardbhm.com Monday-Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. The Standard is a modern take on the classic Birmingham hamburger and hot dog shop. Created by Chef Matt Ralph, it features fresh ground burgers and all beef hot dogs. Also on the menu, you’ll find a house-made veggie burger, patty melt and a fried bologna sandwich—a southern classic. All of the sandwiches
WaffleWorks 205.730.1922 waffleworks.co Monday-Friday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday: 8:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. They make waffles work! With a twist on the traditional Belgian waffle, WaffleWorks explores the combination of soul food and waffles, offering a variety of sweet and savory flavors and toppings. Stop in and try their signature waffle dish, Shrimp & Grits Waffle (pictured; the waffle is actually made with grits). They also have traditional waffle breakfast or Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
and hot dogs include fresh vegetables and house made sauces. Optional additions include pimento cheese, bacon jam, fried egg, and avocado. Add a side of fries, tots, coleslaw, or chips to complete your meal. The Standard changes menu items seasonally, but the cheeseburger remains on the menu year round. See their online profile on EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
you can enjoy lunch or dinner with an amazing variety from Chicken & Waffles to Pulled Pork & Waffles. Satisfy your sweet tooth with your choice of toppings including peach cobbler and dark chocolate with strawberries. To top it off, they also offer a variety of flavored teas and lemonades. WaffleWorks is a flavor experience you will not want to miss. See their online profile on EXCURSIONSGO.com for more information.
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Local Nightlife From craft cocktails and karaoke to live music, craft beer and late night dancing, you’ll find your perfect spot. 82 EXCURSIONS
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LOCALNIGHTLIFE
SOUTHSIDE AND DOWNTOWN 1ST AND 23RD 2300 1st Ave N 205.213.8255
AVONDALE BREWING
COMPANY 201 41st Street S 205.777.5456
CANTINA TORTILLA GRILL 2901 2nd Ave S, Ste. 110 Birmingham 205.323.6980
CARRIGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE 2430 Morris Ave. 205.440.2430
LOU’S PUB & PACKAGE STORE 726 29th Street S 205.322.7005
OASIS 2807 7th Ave. S 205.323.5538
PALE EDDIE’S 2308 2nd Ave, N 205.297.0052
ROGUE TAVERN 2312 2nd Ave. N 205.202.4151
BIRMINGHAM DAIQUIRIS 324 9th St N 205.226.6790
DERBY BAR & GRILL 3630 6th Ave S 205.595.0067
BLACK MARKET BAR & GRILL 2011 Highland Ave. S 205.933.8035
FANCY’S ON FIFTH 430 41st St. S 205.777.3662
THE SOUR ROOM AT
BLUE MONKEY LOUNGE 1318 Cobb Lane 205.933.9222
THE FURNACE 309 28th Street N 205.251.5551
THE WINE LOFT
BOSS ULTRA BAR & LOUNGE 312 20th Street S 205.326.3673
GABLE SQUARE SALOON 803 9th Court S 205.251.0960
BROWNS BAR 720 29th Street S 205.520.8885
GARAGE CAFE 2304 10th Terrace S 205.322.3220
CAHABA BREWING COMPANY TASTING ROOM 2616 3rd Ave. S 205.578.2616
GHOST TRAIN BREWING CO. 2616 3rd Ave. S 205.201.5817
THE J. CLYDE 1312 Cobb Lane 205.939.1312
THE LOUIS
AT PIZITZ FOOD HALL 1821 2nd Ave N 205.730.9002 AVONDALE 4120 3rd Ave. S
2200 1st Ave. N 205.323.8228
TIN ROOF 2709 7th Ave. S 205.323.4356 3000 BAR 1100 20th Street S 205.933.3222 4 SEASONS BAR & GRILL 719 5th Ave. N 205.538.7626 41ST STREET PUB & AIRCRAFT SALES 130 41st Street S, Suite 105 205.202.4187 BIRD’S BAR AND PIZZA 2839 7th Ave. S 205.323.0008
CHASER’S SPORTS BAR 815 24th Street N 205.324.2425
GOOD PEOPLE BREWING COMPANY 114 14th Street S 205.286.2337
CLUB SOUTH 1102 10th Street S 205.251.0512
INNISFREE IRISH PUB 710 29th Street S 205.252.4252
DAVE’S PUB 1128 20th Street S 205.933.4030
IRON CITY BIRMINGHAM 513 22nd Street S 205.202.5483
a live music joint
Our music rocks & so do our chefs! OPEN DAILY · 11 AM - LATE TINROOFBIRMINGHAM.COM LAKEVIEW DISTRICT · 2709 7TH AVENUE SOUTH
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LOCALNIGHTLIFE LEGENDS SPORTS BAR AND LOUNGE 230 18th Street N 205.212.4406 MAMANOES TASTING PARLOR 2301-B 2nd Ave. N 629.888.3222
THE ROOF AT THE REDMONT HOTEL 2101 5th Ave. N 205.957.6828
MARTY’S P.M. 1813 10th Court S 205.939.0045
THE VAULT BAR AND LOUNGE 1920 3rd Ave N 205.266.2594
MOJO PUB & GRILL 2801 7th Ave S 205.703.0933
TODD ENGLISH P.U.B. 2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.307.3700
MOON SHINE AT ELYTON HOTEL 1928 1st Ave N 205.731.3600
TRIM TAB BREWING COMPANY 2721 5th Ave. S 828.545.4746
NANA FUNKS 708 29th Street S 205.250.8003
UPSIDE DOWN PLAZA 2012 Magnolia Ave. S 205.930.0333
OUR PLACE 2115 7th Ave S 205.715.0077
VAPE LOFT 720 29th Street S 205.683.5176
PARAMOUNT 200 20th Street N 205.320.2824
WORKPLAY 500 23rd Street S 205.879.4773
PARKSIDE 4036 5th Ave. S 205.595.0920
ZYDECO 2001 15th Ave. S 205.933.1032
PLUM BAR 108 17th St N SATURN AND SATELLITE 200 41st Street S 205.703.9545
Oasis 2807 7th Avenue South, Birmingham AL 35233 205.323.5538 oasisbar.com For close to 30 years, Oasis Roadhouse Bar has been one of Birmingham’s favorite hot spots. Opening daily at 3 p.m. for happy hour, the down-home atmosphere keeps out-of-towners and locals always coming back. Oasis maintains top-of-the-line bartenders who are friendly and efficient, while showing their true southern charm. Oasis is well known for the amazing talent of professional musicians on their stage and has been the “beginning” to fame for some great artists, like platinum recording artist Taylor Hicks, who still calls Oasis “home.” With live music every night of the week, Oasis is sure to entertain. They also provide professional dart boards that are free to play. Drink specials 7 days a week.
HOURS:
Open Daily from 3 p.m. – 2 a.m. @Oasis-Bar View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
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THE QUEST 416 24th Street S 205.251.4313
SLEEK SPORTS BAR 1005 20th Street S 205.848.5965 SOUND AND PAGE 5529 1st Ave. S 334.245.3819 SPIKE’S LEATHER CLUB 620 27th Street S 205.703.9778 TAVERN ON 1ST 2320 1st Ave. N 205.201.5005 THE ATOMIC LOUNGE 2113 1st Ave N 205.983.7887 THE BREAK 1001 20th Street S 205.252.3779 THE COLLINS BAR 2125 2nd Ave. N, Ste 100 205.323.7995 THE MARBLE RING 430 41st Street S, Birmingham 205.202.2252 THE NICK 2514 10th Ave. S 205.252.3831
CRESTWOOD, EASTWOOD CRESTWOOD TAVERN 5500 Crestwood Blvd. 205.510.0053
THE FILLING STATION PIZZA
CAFE & BAR 5524 Crestwood Blvd 205.592.3455
BOURBON ST. BAR & LOUNGE 1568 Cooper Hill Road 205.957.1006 BOXCAR VAPE 5510 Crestwood Blvd. 205.593.4144
HOMEWOOD, MOUNTAIN BROOK, INVERNESS MAFIAOZA’S PIZZERIA AND
NEIGHBORHOOD PUB 2 Dexter Ave. 205.414.7878
SOHO SOCIAL HOMEWOOD 1830 29th Ave. S 205.423.8080 BASIL GOURMET PIZZA & BAR 1101 Dunston Ave, Mtn Brook 205.224.4465 BILLY’S BAR & GRILL 2012 Cahaba Road 205.879.2238
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LOCALNIGHTLIFE
Pale Eddie’s The Wine Loft 2200 1st Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203 205.323.8228 wineloftbham.com @Wine.Loft.Birmingham
@WineLoftBham
PHOTOS: (LEFT) BRENT BOYD; (RIGHT) RAY HYDRICK
Experience excellence and enjoy the beautiful décor, music, wine, delicious food and knowledgeable staff at The Wine Loft. Located in the heart of Birmingham’s historic downtown entertainment district, The Wine Loft offers a unique experience for those with a sophisticated palate and sense of style. Relax with friends or colleagues in one of their curtained lounge areas and choose from the vast collection of wines from the wine cellar or you may prefer a craft cocktail or beer from the fully-stocked bar. Treat yourself to wines by the glass or bottle served alongside eclectic tapas, appetizers, pizzas, gourmet flatbreads and desserts.
2308 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203 205.297.0052 paleeddiespourhouse.com A tastefully-appointed, smoke-free neighborhood gathering spot with free-flowing ales and lagers. We offer a rotating selection of craft and high-gravity beers in addition to a unique selection of wine and liquors. Located in the loft district of historic downtown Birmingham, the building’s exposed brick and hardwood floors, use of reclaimed timbers and wood elements and ever-rotating gallery of works from local artists provide the backdrop for the bar’s cozy pub ambiance. We also regularly host live music acts with an emphasis on acoustic and singer/songwriter performances and have a separate area available for hosting private functions, receptions and other gatherings. Come get your pour on at Pale Eddie’s!
HOURS:
Reserve space for special events or business presentations for groups of 20 to 200 people. HOURS OF OPERATION
Tuesday - Saturday 5 p.m. - til View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more photos, Facebook feed, link to website and more.
@PaleEddies
Monday - Thursday 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday 3 p.m. - 2 a.m. Saturday 12 p.m. - 2 a.m. Sunday 3 p.m. - Midnight
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EXCURSIONS 85
LOCALNIGHTLIFE BILLY’S BAR & GRILL 4520 Overton Rd, Vestavia 205.956.2323 BLACKWELL’S NEIGHBORHOOD PUB 3151 Green Valley Road 205.967.3798 BUMPERS BILLIARDS 2132 Lorna Ridge Lane, Ste.100 205.823.4006 COMEDY CLUB STARDOME 1818 Data Drive 205.444.0008 FRONT PORCH 2301 Grand Ave, Ste. 109 205.436.2072 GABRIEL’S SPIRITED CAFÉ 3706 Lorna Road 205.985.0983 MOONLIGHT ON THE MOUNTAIN 585 Shades Crest Rd, Birmingham 205.578.2444 ON TAP SPORTS CAFE 3440 Galleria Circle 205.988.3203 SATTERFIELD’S RESTAURANT 3161 Cahaba Heights Rd Ste. 113 205.969.9690 THE NEIGHBORHOOD BREW 5184 Caldwell Mill Rd, Hoover 205.980.7445
TRUSSVILLE, LEEDS ON TAP SPORTS CAFE 810 Inverness Corners 205.437.1999
BLACKWELL’S NEIGHBORHOOD PUB 3151 Green Valley Road 205.967.3798
OTEY’S TAVERN 224 Country Club Park 205.871.8435
CHARBAR NO. 7 900 Jemison Lane 205.802.9050 COURTYARD 280 OYSTER BAR & GRILL 4643 Highway 280, Ste. M 205.980.9891 DRAM WHISKEY BAR 2721 Cahaba Road 205.871.8055 GREY BAR 5426 Hwy 280 205.874.6361 HABITAT FEED & SOCIAL 2655 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham 205.203.4745 JACKSON’S BAR & BISTRO 1831 28th Ave. S, Ste. 175 205.870.9669 OAK HILL BAR & GRILL 2835 18th Street S 205.870.8277
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POPPA G’S BILLIARDS 2722 Chandalar Place Dr 205.664.2949 RED HILLS BREWING COMPANY 2823 Central Ave, Homewood 205.582.2897 RED LION LOUNGE 1926 29th Ave S. 205.871.8552
THE HUMIDOR ROOM CIGAR & SCOTCH BAR 5511 Hwy 280 205.995.4481 THE RED SHAMROCK 42 Manning Place 205.408.1515 THE UPPER DECK SPORTS BAR & GRILL 449 Valley Ave. 205.942.3289 W XYZ BAR AT THE ALOFT HOTEL 1903 29th Ave S. 205.874.8055
REVOLVE KITCHEN & BREW 611 Doug Baker Blvd. 205.545.8523
HOOVER, VESTAVIA
SAW’S JUKE JOINT 1115 Dunston Ave. 205.745.3920
3144 Green Valley Rd 205.967.3300
STARZ KARAOKE LOUNGE 730 Valley Ave. 205.944.0007 STIR CRAZY 430 Green Springs Hwy., Ste. 10 205.941.3343
MUDTOWN EAT & DRINK
PARISH SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE 1911 Gadsden Hwy 205.655.4117 LYNN’S OFFICE LOUNGE 8040 Parkway Dr 205.699.8349
PELHAM, HWY 119 PUB 261 9340 Helena Road, Suite C 205.444.0261 THE HANGAR BAR & GRILL. 800 Mitchell Field Rd 205.434.2121 THE BEER HOG 112 Bowling Lane 205.326.7151
TWIN PEAKS 4330 Creekside Ave., Hoover 205.203.9461 BAR 31 1485 Montgomery Hwy. 205.824.3160 BARRISTER’S TAVERN 1535 Montgomery Hwy 205.978.6970
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PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
BLACK MARKET BAR 3411 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 800 205.967.8787
LOCALNIGHTLIFE
1st and 23rd 2300 1st Avenue North, Birmingham AL 35203 205.213.8255 1stand23rd.com Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, 1st and 23rd provides a relaxing environment to enjoy live music, great food and a variety of cocktails. Come enjoy their southern cuisine, burgers and amazing flatbread pizzas. 1st and 23rd offers a great happy hour, Tuesday through Friday from 4 - 7 p.m., featuring food specials, discounted beer, wine and cocktails. They also invite you to join them Sundays for brunch, including our homemade salmon croquettes and our famous Bloody Mary Bar. HAPPY HOURS:
SideBar 2929 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 205.224.4410 sidebarsocial.com SideBar is the hottest spot in the most thriving entertainment district of Birmingham. Whether you’re just starting the afternoon or burning the midnight oil, this is your haven. With their weatherproof patio, there is plenty of space to enjoy the open air or belly up to the bar in our inviting front room and bring your A-game to our dance room—complete with back patio and a bar of its own. Come play or watch a game of beach volleyball on the newly-built outdoor beach volleyball court—equipped with loads of outdoor seating and a fully stocked bar.
Follow us on Facebook for our latest Happy Hour Promotions Tuesday - Thursday
Happy Hour: 3-8 p.m. weekdays
HOURS:
Live Music Every Friday and Saturday
Happy Hour Tuesday - Friday 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday: 4 p.m. – 2 a.m.
18 Beers on Tap and HDTVs Inside and Out
@1stand23rd View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com
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Annual Events From art exhibits, parades, music festivals and football to bass fishing, NASCAR and motocross, Birmingham has something for adults and children alike every month of the year. JANUARY Martin Luther King Day BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE
Each year the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute offers tours for the Martin Luther King Day of Celebration and Service, reminding people that it is a “day on, not a day off.” The institute encourages citizens to use the day off work or school to work toward bettering their community, just as King did during his lifetime. 205.328.9696; bcri.org
Southern Thunder: The Legacy of Alabama Auto Racing VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM
Year Long Exhibition Inspired by The Alabama Gang’s influence on auto racing, Vulcan Park and Museum’s showcase of its latest LinnHenley Gallery exhibition started June 1, 88 EXCURSIONS
2017. Southern Thunder: The Legacy of Alabama Auto Racing, presented by the Jefferson County Commission, will showcase hair-raising stories and bring to life the impact that auto racing in Alabama had on the regional and national scenes. Join us as we relive this thrilling piece of Alabama history when driving by the seat of your pants wasn’t a figure of speech and learn why this legacy is the foundation for auto racing in Alabama today. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com
Birmingham Art Crawl DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM
January – December: Join the Birmingham Art Crawl every first Thursday of the month rain or shine, as downtown Birmingham transforms into a walking art gallery full of artists, performers, food and fun! birminghamartcrawl.com
FEBRUARY Beaker Bash 2018 MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER
February 3, 2018: On February 3, 2018, McWane Science Center will present our annual fundraiser, Beaker Bash—a beloved tradition for Birmingham area families. During the 2018 event ‘Beaker Bash: The Great Outdoors!, visitors will discover the amazing science that awaits them in their own backyard. Event activities will encourage families to search the grass and the soil to explore animal and insect habitats, make smores under the stars, and plant your own garden as you find out there is more to your backyard than you could ever imagine! Every year, Beaker Bash represents just one example of how science and fun come together to take education beyond the classroom to create a lifelong love of learning. 205.714.8300; mcwane.org
ANNUALEVENTS
Mercedes Marathon
Birmingham Bowl
Candyology Day MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER
February 14: Celebrate Valentines Day at McWane by engineering a gum drop structure or feeding your brain a Valentine treat. 205.714.8300; mcwane.org
Big Machines Day MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER
February 17, 2018: Get your motors running and head over to McWane Science Center for a truckload of fun. Spend a constructive day getting up close and personal with some big machines. 205.714.8300; mcwane.org
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Black History Month PHOTOS: (LEFT) BRENT BOYD; (RIGHT) BRIGHTROOM
BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the citizens of Birmingham attend celebrations and educational experiences throughout the month. Admission charged. 205.328.9696 ext. 203; bcri.org
I Do With a View VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM
February 14: Vulcan Park and Museum in partnership with 97.3 Play is offering couples the chance to marry or renew their vows on the most romantic day of the year —Valentine’s Day—with Vulcan as their witness. The knowledgeable staff of GoPro Event Solutions coordinates the ceremonies
that will take place on the City Overlook with beautiful Downtown Birmingham as the backdrop. Packages include an intimate 30-minute, outdoor ceremony performed by a licensed officiate, a keepsake bridal bouquet and boutonniere, professional photographs and a champagne toast for the bride and groom. Reservations are available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com
Cottontails Village Arts, Crafts and Gift Shows
Mercedes Marathon and Half Marathon
VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM
LINN PARK
Folks from all over run in this downSouth, down-home qualifier to the Boston Marathon, but you don’t have to be a seasoned runner to participate in the weekend events and festivities. 205.870.7771;mercedesmarathon.com
MARCH 34th Annual St. Patty’s Day Parade 5 POINTS SOUTH
March 17, 2018: Everyone Irish, and those who want to be, will be traveling down Birmingham’s “green” 20th St. The parade is a joint venture between Operation New Birmingham, The Alabama Celtic Association, Birmingham Irish Cultural Society and related organizations. 205.324.8797
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BIRMINGHAM JEFFERSON CONVENTION COMPLEX
March 2-4, 2018: Many of the familiar exhibitors from Christmas Village Festival switch gears to create a spring shopping experience for their customers. Original art, handcrafted soaps and unique jewelry, created by artisans from across America. 205.836.7178; christmasvillagefestival.com
Spring Walking Tours March - May: Join Vulcan Park and Museum and friends for an educational and fun walking tour series of Birmingham’s neighborhoods. The series will begin on March 24 with a tour of the historic loft district. We will explore the Redmont Park community on April 14 and conclude the series with a tour of the Woodlawn neighborhood on May 5. Admission charged. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com
APRIL ONB Magic City Art Connection LINN PARK
April 27-29, 2018: FIND ART The 35th Arts Festival will transform downtown’s Linn Park with its spring infusion of artistic talent, sights, sounds, tastes and aromas. Be one of the art newbies, art EXCURSIONS 89
ANNUALEVENTS Magic City Art Connection
Slicefest
Corks and Chefs LINN PARK
April 28-29, 2018: Taste, Sip & Repeat. The 20th annual Corks & Chefs tasting event is the place where art is paired with food, beer, wine, cocktails and spirits. This popular tasting event held in conjunction with the 35th Magic City Art Connection festival is tented and teeming with patrons sampling delicious culinary creations from Birmingham’s booming restaurant scene. 8-10 talented chefs, plus great wines, craft beers, cocktails, coffee, and tea are showcased each day. Corks & Chefs continues to offer enhanced experiences alongside its popular seminars and special, guided tastings and demos for the novice, the curious, and the connoisseur are lead by knowledgeable experts. There is no better time to be a 90 EXCURSIONS
foodie in the South experiencing Birmingham’s growing culinary landscape and its positioning as the next hot food city. (previous listing) 205.595.6306; magiccityart.com
Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK
April 20-22, 2018: Pack your picnic, bring a cooler and head out to Barber Motorsports Park for a weekend full of activities and racing. This family-friendly event is right in your own backyard, so don’t miss out. 205.298.9040; barbermotorsports.com
MAY
JUNE Vulcan’s 114th Birthday Bash VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM
June 3, 2018: Make plans to attend the BIGGEST birthday bash in Birmingham! Vulcan may be the world’s largest cast iron statue, but he still needs help blowing out his birthday candles! There are activities for the whole family in celebration of the BIG GUY’s 114th Birthday! Admission will be charged. Vulcan Park & Museum; 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com
Juneteenth Culture Fest Celebration KELLY INGRAM PARK
May 12-13, 2018: A weekend of roses, with many contest categories, including a photography division. Educational seminars on rose care will also be offered. birminghamrose.org
Celebrating the day slaves in Texas learned of their freedom, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute throws a family fun day in Kelly Ingram Park annually. The day’s activities include live music from local gospel choirs, children’s games and blowup fun activities, performances from local dance troops, lots of wacky contests and more. 205.328.9696; bcri.org
The Regions Tradition
Trunkstock
GREYSTON GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY
May 16-20, 2018: The Regions Tradition, one of five major tournaments on the PGA Champions Tour, will be played at the beautiful Greystone Golf & Country Club. Admission charged. 205.969.9229; regionstradition.com
A funky fundraising collaboration benefits The Birmingham Zoo and REV Birmingham. A full day of notable musical talent, food from local food trucks and, of course, Avondale’s beers. avondalebrewing.com
Birmingham Rose Show BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS
PHOTO: (RIGHT) DAVID R. DONALDSON
curious, or art collecting festival-goers exploring MCAC’s 200 juried artists from around the country. Complementing the art buying experience is the food, wine, craft beer, spirits and cocktails of the 20th Corks & Chefs tasting, plus music and dance performances on stage, kids artmaking workshops, sculpture installations and lingering with friends at one of the festival lounges or Park Place Café. Info at MagicCityArt.com. Find Art and more the last full weekend in April! Create. Inspire. Educate. Collect. 205.595.6306; magiccityart.com.
ANNUALEVENTS
4th of July at Vulcan Park & Museum
Slicefest LAKEVIEW/SLICE PIZZA AND BREW
June 2, 2018: Great pizza from Slice and a host of food trucks, local brews, all day musical line up and the Beer Experience. This kid and pet friendly one-day festival is quickly becoming one of the premiere events of the summer in Birmingham. slicefest.com
JULY 4th of July Fireworks VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM
July 4, 2018: Vulcan Park and Museum throws a 4th of July fireworks extravaganza on top of Red Mountain, showering the beloved iron man, Vulcan, with sparkling light. Folks bring lawn chairs and line the streets of southside, downtown and Homewood to celebrate our nation’s independence. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com
PHOTO: (LEFT) BOB FARLEY
Tin Roof Brew Bash LAKEVIEW/TIN ROOF
This one-day street festival closes down part of 7th Ave. S in Lakeview in front of Tin Roof and features beers from our local breweries, bands and great food. tinroofbars.com/birmingham
Alabama Theatre Summer Film Series This historic theatre is a must for film lovers in the summer! Classics are featured on Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees. Select Sundays offer kids matinees. Admission charged. alabamatheatre.com
thousands of people to downtown Birmingham. For two nights music enthusiasts are treated to over 80 bands performing on up to eleven different stages. Acts are drawn from the nationally and locally. The spirit of Secret Stages celebrates that which is coming next in the world of music. secretstages.net
AUGUST
Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival
ALABAMA THEATRE
Sidewalk Film Festival DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM
August 20-26, 2018: Downtown screening venues are packed with enthusiastic crowds excited to see the best movies, documentaries and short films by independent filmmakers from around the world. Five days, 250 plus films, eleven parties, sixteeen venues and 13,000 people. Admission charged. 205.324.0888; sidewalkfest.com
Birmingham Restaurant Week SELECT LOCAL RESTAURANTS
Check website for dates: Spotlighting the Magic City’s great culinary community since 2010. This is a 7-day culinary affair where locally owned and operated restaurants offer incentives for patrons to visit their favorite restaurants or to experience new ones. bhamrestaurantweek.com
Secret Stages Music Discovery Festival DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM
August 3-4, 2018: Secret Stages brings DENOTES EXCURSIONS SPONSORED EVENT—More events at EXCURSIONSGO.com
DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM
The Fourth Avenue Business District will be filled with the sounds of live jazz music and the taste of the best soul food that Birmingham has to offer. The children’s area offers a fantastic array of activities for the whole family. justataste.org
SEPTEMBER ArtWalk DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM
Bars and restaurants from Morris Ave. to 2nd Ave. open their doors to artists featuring original works in all media. Storefronts, coffeehouses and lofts generally donate their space to be used as makeshift galleries for the weekend. Local music. birminghamartwalk.org
Vulcan AfterTunes VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM
September - October 2018: This fall, enjoy cool tunes, craft brews and sweet views on Sunday afternoons with your favorite cast EXCURSIONS 91
ANNUALEVENTS 7th Annual Beer Garden Craft Tasting
Moss Rock Festival
THE PRESERVE IN HOOVER
November 3-4, 2018: Each fall, Moss Rock Festival’s Beer Garden craft tasting event spotlights a great selection of craft breweries, home brewers, a cask garden and bio-dynamic wines alongside tasty beer bites, live music and Alabama’s premier eco-creative festival. mossrockfestival.com
71st Veteran’s Day Parade DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM
November 11, 2018: Recognized as the nation’s oldest and largest Veteran’s Day observance, the day’s events include an elaborate parade, a dinner honoring the National Veterans Awards recipient, a world peace luncheon, ROTC/JROTC Drill Competition and a memorial service all honor those who have served and are currently serving in the U.S. Military. 205.942.5800; nationalveteransday.org iron statue, Vulcan. Chill out in Birmingham’s backyard and end your week with some of the area’s best music while witnessing spectacular views of Birmingham’s city skyline. This annual three-part concert series features local and national acts that each brings a unique sound to the Vulcan AfterTunes stage. Admission charged. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com
The 2018 MotoAmerica Championship of Alabama BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK
September 21-23, 2018: Remember, on days when major events like this are taking place at Barber Motorsports Park, Barber Museum members will need to purchase an event ticket in order to enter the park and museum. 205.298.9040; barbermotorsports.com
OCTOBER Magic City Classic LEGION FIELD
October 27, 2018: Alabama State University collides with Alabama A&M at Legion Field to battle for victory in this longstanding football rivalry. Like any legendary football rivalry, the competition always proves to be bitter and close with spectacular plays, fiercely loyal fans and lots of school pageantry. 205.967.4745; themagiccityclassic.com
Barber Vintage Festival BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK
October 5-7, 2018: This three-day festival 92 EXCURSIONS
features the America’s First Fan Zone offering food and entertainment, Ace Corner A Century Parade, a swap meet with hundreds of vendors, wall of death, globe of death, on the edge stunts shows and more! barbermotorsports.com
Fiesta! LINN PARK
Experience Hispanic culture through music, food, art and dance. Fiesta! is an opportunity to learn about more than 20 Latin American countries. Set on the lawn of Linn Park, this festival draws fun crowds of more than 20,000. fiestahbc.com
NOVEMBER
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) PEPPER PLACE IN LAKEVIEW
November 2, 2018: Always celebrated on November 2, Birmingham’s annual Day of the Dead Festival is based on a Hispanic tradition, Dia de los Muertos, honoring friends and family who have died. Complete with a procession, music, performances art and food from some of Birmingham’s best restaurants. Google “Day of the Dead Birmingham” for the latest information and location.
DECEMBER Alabama Theatre Christmas Film Festival ALABAMA THEATRE
Moss Rock Festival THE PRESERVE IN HOOVER
November 3-4, 2018: Alabama’s premier eco-creative festival held at The Preserve in Hoover explores nature, smart living, art + design the first weekend in November. Innovation, imagination, and fun await 10,000 visitors under a blanket of fall colors. Wander Artist Row and find artwork inspired by nature. Listen to live music while tasting the best from chefs, bakers, craft brewers and food trucks. Learn about sustainability topics, innovations, products and services from +Design features and the SmartLIVING Market exhibitors. Plus there’s outdoor activities like guided hikes and natureinspired art workshops for the kids 205.595.6306; mossrockfestival.com
Annual screenings of It’s A Wonderful Life and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation are just a part of what makes this film fest magical. Admission charged. 205.251.0418; alabamatheatre.com
Birmingham Bowl LEGION FIELD
This is a post-season NCAA-sanctioned Division I-A college football bowl game played annually at Legion Field. 205.733.3776, birminghambowl.com
Zoolight Safari BIRMINGHAM ZOO
See the Birmingham Zoo illuminated with more than half a million lights by train ride or foot. One of the few times to enjoy the zoo at night. 205.879.0409; birminghamzoo.com ❖
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