Things to Do & See in Birmingham, Alabama...

Once an industrial town known for its iron and steel, Birmingham has developed into a sophisticated urban city that celebrates diversity - from it's Civil Rights history to the bustling entertainment districts and award-winning culinary scene. And then there's the incredible outdoor spaces it has to offer!

Exploring Downtown Birmingham...

Taking a stroll through the historic downtown is an absolute must! Soak up the history and be sure to take plenty of photos on this 4 mile walking tour that's jam-packed with attractions and artefacts:

• Visit the Alabama Peanut Co., the place where hot peanuts have been sold for well over 100 years. It's not just the 100+ types of peanut on offer; they have a drink menu that pairs the famous peanuts with the finest local craft beers or with classic sodas. And the shop building is a piece of history in and of itself.
• Visit important Civil Rights sites such as Sixteenth Street Baptist Church which was bombed by local members of the Klu Klux Klan in 1963, killing 4 young girls. The church was central to the organisation of African-Amertican protests against racial segregation and had been under threat by the KKK for some time. 
• Walk through Kelly Ingram Park (formerly West Park) which was the assembly point for peaceful protest marches during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Just across from Sixteenth Stree Baptist Church,  this site was central to the organised Civil Rights protests.
• The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is the perfect place to visit for a compehensive and engaging Civil Rights Movement overview, showing what life was life in segregated America and how racial equality was fought for and won.
• Other places to visit include: Alabama Theatre; Railroad Park; Goodyear Shoe Hospital; Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame; and the Good People Brewing Company
• Brilliant photo opportunities:: Make your way to Morris Avenue to discover one of the most photographed places in Birmingham as you take a snap of the cobblestoned road that transports you to a different time and place. Also visit the “It’s nice to have you in Birmingham” mural at 112 Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard N. A great photo for the evening is a selfie in the colour tunnel at 99-1 14th St. South, where the tunnel creates some of the most amazing and colour filled pictures in Birmingham. More information on all the attractions included at alabama.travel/road-trips/birmingham-taking-it-to-the-streets-downtown. 

4 Birmingham Restaurants with Live Music...

The next time you want a song with your salad or a band with your burger, check out these establishments that offer both good eats and good beats.

• Iron City Grill: In addition to the main music hall that brings in national acts, the Iron City Grill regularly showcases local musicians, along with some of the freshest food in town. The restaurant draws heavily from area farms for fruits and vegetables and from the Alabama Gulf Coast for seafood. So offerings such as the veggie sandwich and the fish tacos are as fresh as the music. Plus, there is S'mores Pot de Crème for desert. Try getting that at most juke joints. 513 22nd St. S. ironcitybham.com
• Rogue tavern: Rogue is much more than just a tavern. Sure, there are plenty of beer choices, with nearly 30 brews on tap. But Rogue could easily stand alone as a restaurant. Shrimp and Andouille Sausage Bisque, BLT Sliders and a Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla are among the creative offerings. At night, Rouge transitions into a lively music venue, featuring both national and local acts. 2312 2nd Ave. N. roguetavern.com
• Tin Roof: For the 20-something crowd, Tin Roof has been a popular meal-and-music option since opening in Lakeview in 2012 in the old TC's location. The menu is touted as "better than bar food," with such interesting concoctions as Chicken 'n' Waffle Nuggets and Brisket Cheddar Mac 'n' Cheese. There is music nearly every night, ranging from national acts to open jam sessions for locals. 2709 7th Avenue S. tinroofbirmingham.com
  
• Moe's BBQ (Lakeview location): With four locations throughout the city, Moe's is well known for its barbeque. The Redneck Nachos—homemade chips covered in pulled pork and topped with cheese and sauce—alone are worth the trip. In addition, the Lakeview location has live music most Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. If you're lucky, there might be a Rick Carter sighting. 731 29th St. S. moesoriginalbbq.com/lo/birmingham-lakeview

For more information, please do get in touch with our very own Alabama expert, Alabama Andy!