Where to Go in Birmingham, Alabama: A Magical Time in the Magic City
Main photo from Unsplash.
Birmingham, Alabama, is one of those secretly fabulous Southern cities that hasn’t been ruined by the media—like, ahem, a few others that come to mind. Though the population of this metro area is a little over 1 million, the Magic City, as it is affectionately known, retains a friendly, small-town charm while offering world-class cuisine and cocktails and attracting a variety of industries, including technology, health care and the arts. It’s worth a visit, and if you ever head down there, here’s what you need to prioritize.
Where to Go
If you love hiking or cycling, pack your water bottle and head for Red Mountain Park. Named for the red hue of dust from hematite, one of the cornerstones of Birmingham’s iron-making history, this sprawling greenspace of 1,500 acres offers a convenient reprieve from the city. Choose one of the 16 trails (all different lengths and levels of difficulty) for a biking or walking experience, or bring your pet for some off-leash time at Remy’s Dog Park. Regular patrons who love Red Mountain (and the native animals and plants at home in the park) can become financially supporting members, a deal that includes two other green spaces in Jefferson County: Ruffner Mountain and Turkey Creek.
Second Avenue North District is one of the urban hotspots of downtown Birmingham, lined with small businesses, creative spaces, bars and restaurants. An afternoon at Second Avenue can be anything you want: shopping for rugs at English Village Lane, clothing at basic., or jewelry at Levy’s; perusing fine art at Canary Gallery; sipping cocktails at the House of Found Objects or wine at Avine; having a gourmet lunch at EastWest or El Barrio… and the list goes on. Just park your car and explore; you’ll see.
After some food, booze or retail therapy, center yourself with a walk through Railroad Park during golden hour. The park winds throughout the center of the city, earning it the nickname of “Birmingham’s Living Room,” and hosts numerous events all year, many free to attend.
If you’re in town on a Saturday morning, don’t miss The Market at Pepper Place from 7 a.m. to noon. It’s the best way to score local produce, products, art and more, plus you can hang out with residents for weekly events such as live music, cooking demonstrations and fun seasonal celebrations like “Tomato Day” and “Pumpkin Day.”