Curator’s statement
I was born and raised in this special city we like to call “The Magic City." People not from around here are always surprised when they learn that this city not only has great barbeque, but also has many James Beard award winning restaurants. We also boast great shopping, breweries, museums, golf and beautiful scenery. It’s definitely worth the visit. I love being a tourist in my hometown.
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Where to stay in Birmingham
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Things to do in Birmingham
Vulcan - Visit the world's largest cast iron statue offers interesting history of the city and spectacular views of the city skyline.
Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail - People make special trips to Alabama to play these award winning golf courses. If you love golf, this is a must do.
Barber Motorsports -A multi purpose race track and museum dedicated to all types of Motorsports.
Buc-ee’s - The biggest gas station you’ve ever seen, with gifts and surprisingly good brisket.
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute - Learn about the history that took place on Birmingham's very streets and the brave men and women who fought to achieve basic human rights.
Sloss Furnace - You often can catch a show or festival in this super cool historic blast furnace that made iron until 1970, but also worth a visit just to take a tour.
Places to eat & drink in Birmingham
Breweries
Back Forty Beer Company - try the cheese burger here it is delicious.
Cahaba Brewing Company
Good People Brewing
Ghost Train Brewing
Avondale Brewery
Pro tip: Rent a bike or scooter and do a pub crawl. Great way to see the city and visit these awesome Breweries.
Restaurants
Dreamland BBQ - Save room for the Banana pudding
Johnnys - Classic southern food.
Hot and Hot Fish Club - Chef Chris Hastings was a James Beard winner for “Best Chef in the South” twice. Save room for the delicious chocolate soufflé.
Helen - My opinion the best steak in Birmingham.
Highland’s Bar and Grill - James Beard Most Outstanding Restaurant in 2018.
Automatic Seafood - James Beard nominee for best restaurant and best chef in 2022.
Need to know
Travel Advisor
Leigh Ann Geiger
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Birmingham is great for a girls or guys weekend, couples getaway, or a family trip. Plenty of things to see and do!
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Gillian Spatz’s guide, Exploring Mobile, Alabama: Savory Delights and Exciting Adventures.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Alabama.