EXCURSIONS Hotel Guest Directory for Metro Birmingham 2013-14

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

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Safe travels and frequent returns,

Brent Boyd

EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Brent Boyd brent@cityvision.tv DIGITAL EDITOR

Wendy Bozzelli office@cityvision.tv COPY EDITOR

Rachel Davis davis.rachel.a@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Adams Jenny Adams Rachel Davis Stephen McGee

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Big Sweded, Inc. Brent Boyd Billy Brown Michael Clemmer—Golf Landscapes Dina Graphics David R. Donaldson Nate Dreger Bob Farley Hinterland Photography Alex Hooks Carla Johnson Nik Layman Padraic Major Jeffrey Rease Linda Stelter Craig Stevens Jeff Tombrello

EXCURSIONS Hotel Guest Directory is published annually by CityVision, Inc. 3021 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233; 205.595.0809; www.cityvision.tv Copyright 2013-14 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 sales@cityvision.tv or view our website at www.cityvision.tv.

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BIRMINGHAM IS CELEBRATING a milestone year. Even though this book is released late in the year, I feel it is still important to inform you about our united efforts in Birmingham to pay tribute to, give recognition to and celebrate the progress we’ve made in Birmingham. 50 years ago the Civil Rights struggles reached a fevered pitch and put the residents of Birmingham on long journey to find peace, harmony and tolerance. The Birmingham you are visiting today is moving forward.

The City of Birmingham and many others came together this year to celebrate our forward progress. Please visit the website 50yearsforward.com to see who and how we are celebrating this milestone year.

Those of us who live, work and play near the city center are very excited about the progress and potential over the past several years. Our newest landmark and addition to the skyline is Regions Field, new home for the Birmingham Barons and new venue to bring city dwellers and suburbanites together. Regions Field is situated across the street from the much-lauded and praised urban park reclamation, Railroad Park.

Two other city parks have also been com-

pletely transformed and modernized recently. Both Avondale Park and Crestwood Park received extensive multi-million dollar facelifts that have helped spawn new interest and growth in those areas of the city.

Check out the Neighborhoods section for more information.

Craft breweries continue to become centers for social activities and bring folks together from all over the region. I would even say the breweries are championing a new sense of pride among our citizens.

They are sponsoring and hosting charitable events throughout the year. Check out the Events section and plan to join us for one of our many festivals and fundraisers.

This is also my opportunity to thank the many advertisers and professionals who come together to bring you this publication. My good friend and designer extraordinaire, Tim Kilgore, takes great pride in designing this publication and his dedication to design and his guidance are truly invaluable to me. We are also honored to feature some new photographers this year. Craig Stevens’ cover shot really captured the new energy and spirit of our ever-evolving downtown scene. Alex Hooks artfully captured the mood and energy of St. Paul and The Broken Bones —a local band with a very bright future.

Check out their feature article preceding the Nightlife section. Jenny Adams’ feature writing is always engaging, playful and enlightening. Thank you, Jenny!

My sincerest appreciation goes to the many advertisers who believe in this publication. I strongly encourage you to assist me in thanking them by visiting their places of business and, most importantly, letting them know that EXCURSIONS led you to their doors.

I hope you enjoy reading our book and will put it to good use while visiting. Take advantage of the new EXCURSIONS Mobile Web 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. It also makes it easy to follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Enjoy your visit and feel confident knowing we’re here if you need us.

Bourke’s AAMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care of Birmingham 2610 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 322-2483

INTRODUCING

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CONTENTS

8 Downtown Once More

The Birmingham Barons have a new home plate.

12 Entertainment Districts

Birmingham’s historic neighborhoods provide a stunning backdrop for modern entertainment.

20 Magic City Neighborhoods Birmingham’s neighborhoods are vibrant, diverse and inhabited by people who thrive off of the energy of being near the city center.

28 Birmingham’s Closest Neighbors

The smaller, yet influential, cities surrounding Birmingham each have a vibe and pace of their own.

42 Get Ready, Get Set, Shop!

This town offers shoppers a run for their money.

48 Main Attractions

The Birminghan Metro area offers a broad range of attractions worth getting out of your hotel room.

56 Performing Arts

No longer an industrial giant, Birmingham’s new “magic” is in the thriving arts community.

62 From Pole to Plate

Ocean is Birmingham’s best place for a bite of fish.

64 Love at First Bite

Birmingham’s culinary hot-spots are sure to delight.

74 St. Paul and The Broken Bones

A band you should be listening to right now.

78 Birmingham Nightlife

From cocktails and cigars to live music and beer, find your perfect spot.

82 Southern Draws

Alabama’s prestigious golf courses and state parks offer a variety of fun—and challenges— for all.

88 Annual Events

From art shows, parades, music festivals and football to bass fishing, NASCAR and motocross, Birmingham has something for adults and kids alike every month of the year.

THIS PAGE AND ON THE COVER

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The new Regions Field—home to the Birmingham Barons. photograph by Craig Stevens

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DOWNTOWN ONCE MORE THE BIRMINGHAM BARONS HAVE A NEW HOME PLATE

CRAIG STEVENS

by JENNY ADAMS Photography by CRAIG STEVENS

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T BRENT BOYD

he crack of a bat. The taste of a beer. The smell of hot dogs on the grill and the roar of the crowd as someone slides into home base.

Baseball is so much more than just a sport.

It’s more than just players making up a single team, and it’s more than the score on the board beyond the fence at centerfield. In Birmingham, this year in particular, baseball welcomes spring and summer, but it also brings some of the city’s history back to roost downtown.

The Birmingham Barons have been a hometown icon since 1885 and this year, they are welcoming fans to their brand new Regions Stadium next to Railroad Park.

The History of Baseball in Birmingham When the team first donned uniforms back in 1885, they were the Coal Barons, a nod to the state’s coalmines discovered in the early decades of that century. They played in numerous Southern leagues, and while many of those early baseball teams have long-since disappeared, the Barons—as they would come to be known by 1901— have survived.

“They’ve had a long and successful run with only a few gaps in the timeline,” offers current co-owner Jeff Logan, who purchased the team in 2006 with his father, Don and his brother, Stan. “The team is really a thread that’s stretched throughout Birmingham’s

own history. When people come to watch them today, several of the fans could tell you that their grandparents and great-grandparents also watched the Barons play.”

Those great-grandparents Logan mentions would have watched games downtown at the team’s first home, Rickwood Field. The now-historic park opened in 1910 and was also the home of the Birmingham Black Barons, the city’s first Negro League team. The Barons played there until the late 1980s. Rickwood Field is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and operates as a “working museum,” including hosting a few games annually, like the throwback Rickwood Classic.

For the last several decades, the Birmingham Baron’s have played their home games at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium, located about 20 minutes from downtown. The decision to move there in 1987 was not only because of Rickwood’s extreme age, but also due to a shift in baseball’s overall trends.

“I think in the ‘70s and ‘80s there was an overall move to more suburban stadiums in terms of design,” Logan continues. “Over the years, we received several proposals to build a new stadium. While there were appealing things about several of them, it wasn’t until 2011 that we really felt something was ‘right.’ In this decade, we are now seeing a return to urban living in downtown areas, and baseball stadiums are popping up everywhere in downtown corridors. Birmingham was ready for the Barons to move back to the center of the city.”

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You can watch the games from beyond the outfield at the stadium’s beer garden, which, according to Logan, is extremely popular with 20-somethings. “We put a strong emphasis on local brews alongside the popular domestics of Miller and Coors,” he says. “Pretty much wherever we could do things locally here, we did.”

The park also features elements like a wiff le ball park for children, batting cages for all ages and amazing food and drink options.

“You won’t see another park anywhere in America that looks quite like this one,” Logan says. “Visually it’s totally unique.

Some people were skeptical about building it downtown at first, and there were a few concerns raised, but I believe we addressed all of those. The park seats 8,500. We are averaging about 5,700 tickets per game since opening day, which is close to double what we were doing in Hoover. I think that’s a great sign that this was the perfect time to move back downtown.”

A few of those issues were parking and traffic. Rather than a single entry and exit for cars, as was the case in Hoover, this new Regions Stadium offers multiple entries

“NOT ONLY CAN YOU SEE GAMES FROM ALL ANGLES, BUT YOU HAVE INCREDIBLE VIEWS OF THE ENTIRE CITY LANDSCAPE, FROM THE FINANCIAL AREA, TO UAB, TO THE BUILDINGS OF SOUTHSIDE.”

— GENERAL MANAGER JONATHAN NELSON

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and exits on all four adjoining blocks. The owners have also signed deals with downtown food trucks and iconic businesses, like Dreamland Bar-B-Que. Inside you can enjoy the park’s signature Dreamland Magic City Dogs. It’s an all-sausage hot dog with spicy mustard and coleslaw. To wash it down, try a cold one from local Good People brewing, serving their signature beers inside the park.

“For us, this new park has been incredible exposure,” laughs Michael Sellers, coowner of Good People Brewing, which is located just across from Railroad Park and the new stadium. “We are opening now a few hours prior to every game and staying open a couple of hours after so that fans can

BRENTBOYD

The New Stadium Approximately $64 million went into the total construction and design for the brand new Regions Field and surrounding elements. Designed by HKS of Dallas, the park features a 360-degree concourse at street level. “This means you get views of the action on the field from any vantage point when you are inside,” explains General Manager Jonathan Nelson. “Not only can you see games from all angles, but you have incredible views of the entire city landscape, from the financial area, to UAB, to the buildings of Southside.”

From the outside, the stadium celebrates Birmingham in an interesting way as well. “HKS did an incredible job,” continues Nelson. “They designed the Arlington stadium for the Texas Rangers and many, many others. What’s great is that they researched the Barons history and the City of Birmingham’s history. The outer design mimics the steel production we are known for. There’s an industrial look, and then the seating bowl is designed after the Rickwood Field’s seating bowl. To be able to incorporate all of that in one design is pretty special for us.”

CRAIG STEVENS

drink and hang out in our taproom.” Inside the complex, they are selling their Pale Ale on draft and their Brown Ale and I.P.A. in cans. “On the horizon,” continues Sellers, “we will probably do a few special seasonals specifically for the baseball season.”

With all the new glitz, glamour and beer-garden-goodness, the process of moving the city’s beloved Barons back downtown wasn’t totally without hiccups, and it was certainly rife with excitement. The Barons broke a world record by playing a game in the country’s newest park followed by a consecutive game at Rickwood, which is now the country’s oldest.

“We had a ribbon cutting on opening day

and fireworks,” recalls Logan. “We opened 30 minutes early so people could check out the park before the game. I remember thinking that everything was going smoothly ‘til the national anthem started. We had a group called Three on a String performing it, and the microphone started to cut out. It kept happening, and everyone was quiet. You could only hear bits of the song. I was in a state of panic, but all of a sudden, the crowd began to sing with the band. Then they got louder and louder as everyone joined in.

Now, whenever I ask people about opening day, they always mention that. It could have been the worst moment of the night, but it turned out to be the best. I’ll never forget

that. It’s something special I love about this brand new place.”

There’s a lot to love about the new Regions Stadium and having the Barons back downtown. Stop in for a game, stay for a spell in the park and visit Good People brewing, Dreamland or any of the fine businesses downtown.

“This stadium is much more than I ever thought it could be when we started the planning,” finishes Valerie Abbott, Chairwoman of Planning & Zoning Committee for the city. “To me, sitting in that stadium and looking at the skyline of Birmingham at night is just electrifying…and the game’s not half bad either.”

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Entertainment Districts Birmingham’s historic neighborhoods provide a stunning backdrop for modern entertainment.

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idden in some of Birmingham’s most historic districts are its most modern, trendy locales that attract locals and tourists with their unique offerings.

5 Points South is known as the orginal entertainment district to those who live here. Recently, however, as more people are moving into the 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 new Westin Hotel and The Sheraton Hotel, Uptown is designed for a New Orleans-style experience with a closed street at night.

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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E N T E R TA I N M E N T L A K E V I E W

Historic Lakeview District akeview is southside’s most eclectic mix of fine and casual dining, nightclubs and pubs and some of Birmingham’s most notable characters. Brothers, Bobby and Johnny Lorino own and operate Rag’s Italian Bistro.

They share their love of Italian food with their patrons, many of whom can be seen there nightly. Just don’t ask them to share Momma Lorino’s recipes — especially her meatballs. Nestled next door is one of the most iconic establishments in Birmingham’s history, Lou’s Pub & Package Store. There will be a cast of characters hanging out here nightly and owner, Mike Carpri, will have a string of jokes to tell you if you dare ask. Lou’s is also one of the few places

Slice Stone Pizza & Brew 725 29th Street South 205.715.9300; slicebirmingham.com Pizza-making has reached an art form at Slice Stone Pizza & Brew. Chef Terrell Brazelton uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to marry medleys of flavors in their specialty pizzas. They keep the menu as fresh as our ingredients, so you’ll always have new things to try. Started by brothers, Jeff, Jason, and 14 EXCURSIONS

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 new, expansive outdoor patio features a real woodburning fireplace and a fantastic view of Lakeview - perfect for relaxing and people-watching Valet parking available nightly.

Scan code to access their mobile web page.

to purchase liquor after sundown. Across the street from Lou’s is another brothers-owned establishment, Slice Stone Pizza & Brew.

The Bajalieh Brothers know pizza and beer — they’ve concocted their own pizza creations like none other you’ve ever had. With a full bar and wide selection of craft beers, Slice is now a Birmingham landmark. Tin Roof is the newest party spot to move into Lakeview.

Billed as a live music joint, Tin Roof ’s menu is teeming with a variety of freshly-made delights and they’re open for lunch. Also new, Iron City is booking a wide variety of talent in their live music bar venue and serves up a full menu in their restaurant. Scan code for directions.

Iron City Birmingham 513 22nd Street South 205.202.5483; ironcitybham.com Iron City Birmingham is the newest concert hall, event center, and grill in the heart of downtown Birmingham’s Lakeview area. A historic

building that has been completely renovated, Iron City has two vintage bars and a full service rustic Grill that is a must see for visitors and locals alike! Scan code to access their mobile web page.

PHOTO: (LEFT) DAVID R. DONALDSON

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Birmingham’s most eclectic entertainment district with influences from around the globe.

L A K E V I E W E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Lou’s Pub & Package Store 726 29th Street South 205.322.7005; louspub.com

Rags Lorino’s Italian Bistro 728 29th Street South 205.327.7247; ragsitalianbistro.net Johnny and Bobby Lorino invite you to visit Rags Lorino’s Italian Bistro for a fun, casual dining experience. Whether you’re there for the third generation Sicilian recipes or down-home soul food, you will want to come back for more.

With widescreen HDTVs and our great bar, you will enjoy meeting friends for drinks or the big game. Be sure to try the homemade Italian meatballs with ravioli and pesto sauce — a local favorite. Open for lunch and dinner. Buon appetito!

Scan code to access their mobile web page.

Founded in 1987, Lou’s Pub & Package Store is a neighborhood bar with a “Cheers” feel, and they also sell liquor! Loved by almost all who enter, Lou’s Pub is known for its diverse clientele and colorful bartenders. Esquire magazine called it one of the “100 Best Bars in America!”

Although Louis Zaden, original owner, has had his “last call,” the new proprietor,

Michael Carpri, is keeping 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, Lou’s Pub is a great place before or after dinner or a concert. Hence the slogan: Meet @ Lou’s! Now serving classic cocktails on Wednesday and Sunday.

Scan code to access their mobile web page.

Tin Roof

PHOTOS: BRENT BOYD

709 7th Avenue South 205.323.4356; tinroofbars.com Tin Roof, a “Live Music Joint” is located in the Lakeview District, offering daily happy hour specials and live music. Check out our events calendar for a listing of what’s coming up. Come on in and hang out at a live music joint where “there’s no bitchin’ or whining” — just a laid back atmosphere where you can kick back and have a good time.

Remember…Relax! You’re at the Roof! Where everybody is somebody! Scan code to access their mobile web page.

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Historic 5 Points South The original entertainment district in Birmingham — no visit to the Magic City is complete without a visit to this unique area.

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5 P O I N T S E N T E R TA I N M E N T

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oasting more fine dining establishments of any other area of town, Historic 5 Points South merchants are as diverse as the neighborhoods surrounding it. For that perfect steak and bottle of wine, try MetroPrime Steakhouse. Seafood more to your liking? Then Ocean is the answer with fresh seafood prepared daily by awardwinning Chef George Reis. Hip and cool would be the adjectives for Ocean’s sister restaurant right next door, 26. For the best selection of beers on tap and in the bottle, ease up to The J. Clyde on Cobb Lane. Sibling-owners, Susan and Jerry, will be glad to school you in the latest craft beer inventions from around the world. Their kitchen is open late, too. 5 Points is also now home to World of Beer. WOB offers one of the widest selections of bottled, canned and draught beers in the city in a sports bar atmosphere. The knowledgable staff will make you feel right at home. Check out the game or people-watch at Fuego Cantina & Saloon, which boasts the best patio and happy hour in town. Be sure to try their Fuegoritas and Feugojitos. Bacchus Dance Club is the place to get your booty shaking on the weekends. You can dance into the wee hours of the morning at this state-of-the-art dance club. One of Alabama’s most iconic restaurants is also in the 5 Points area, Dreamland Bar-BQue. Dreamland’s combination of slow-cooked and their top-secret recipe sauce are not be missed during your visit. Don’t have time to stop in? Dreamland will ship ribs and fixings to you anywhere in the USA. Scan code for directions to 5 Points.

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD; (RIGHT) NIK LAYMAN

Bacchus Dance Club 1928 11th Avenue South 205.731.2582; bacchusbham.com Taking center stage in the heart of Historic Five Points South, is Bacchus Dance Club.

Adding a touch of Vegas in Birmingham, Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, joins Birmingham’s oldest friend Vulcan, god of the forge, by opening the most exciting dance clubs in the state of Alabama. Bacchus Dance Club

opens Friday and Saturday nights with latest in light show and sound technology, the DJ spinning the latest hits and getting the dance floor bouncing. Try one of their specialty shots and their signature frozen Vegas Bomb! Come party with Birmingham’s hottest bartenders and dance the night away. Doors open at 9 pm.

Scan code to access their mobile web page.

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T 5 P O I N T S

Fuego Cantina & Saloon Black Market Bar + Grill 2011 Highland Avenue South 205.933.8035; evilbartenders.com Discover an old-style, pub-like atmosphere inside a large dining room with a long, antique wooden bar, metal ceiling, tile floor, decorative stained glass accents, classic rock music playing in the background and a cartoonish, monster-centric theme décor reminiscent of old

b-movies and pin-up babes of the past. But don’t be fooled by the décor, the food here rocks and is favored by locals seven days a week. The Greek Spring Rolls are kick-ass!

Check out their live music schedule on their website or Facebook page.

Scan code to access their mobile web page.

1101 20th Street South 205.933.1544; fuegobirmingham.com Fuego Cantina & Saloon, centered in Historic 5 Points South, is a wonderful restaurant with a style you aren’t going to find anywhere else.

Fuego blends a significant amount of spice with its food and atmosphere. We offer three unique settings: the Cantina, the Saloon and our unbeatable patio – noted as one of Birmingham’s Best. We offer

two bars serving up a full menu of specialty martinis, mojitos and margaritas. Join us for happy hour with $3 Fuegoritas and Fuegojitos and $2 draught beer. We have 14 beers on tap and HDTVs inside and out.

All of this, Karaoke on Tuesday nights, Trivia on Wednesdays and live music played Fridays and Saturdays. What are you waiting for?

Come play with fire! Scan code to access their mobile web page.

MetroPrime Steakhouse Birmingham’s only local prime steakhouse, MetroPrime Steakhouse, is located in the heart of Historic 5 Points South. MetroPrime’s expansive bar area offers a more casual dining experience.

The bar features handcrafted cocktails, eighteen specialty beers on tap and an extensive list of wines by the glass. In addition, the bar offers a separate happy hour menu featuring their house-ground 10 oz. steakburger with hand-cut steak fries for only $6.50. Plan your next business meeting or host potential clients, family and friends in one of our elegant private dining spaces. Both spaces are separated from the main dining room with glass partitions and one room even has a warm, cozy fireplace. Scan code to access their mobile web page.

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PHOTOS: (TOP RIGHT/BOTTOM) BRENT BOYD

1035 20th Street South 205.623.5288; metroprimesteak.com

5 P O I N T S E N T E R TA I N M E N T

World of Beer 1005 20th Street South 205.703.7203; wobusa.com World of Beer, located in Historic 5 Points South, is a beer bar that specializes in good times, good beer and great people! Over 500 different beers, 64 drafts and live music. World of Beer is a truly uncommon establishment where the experience is

as essential as the product. At World of Beer, patrons from the beer aficionado to the casual beer fan, can enjoy the best beers on the planet and increase their beer knowledge in an upbeat atmosphere.

Check their website for live music schedule and tap takeovers. Scan code to access their mobile web page.

The J. Clyde Hot Rock Tavern & Alehouse 1312 Cobb Lane 205.939.1312; jclyde.com The J. Clyde is located on Cobb Lane, a historic cobblestone street in the 5 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 brews and wines.

With more than 60 craft brews and beers 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 for their fantastic foodbrew and food-wine pairings.

The open-air patio along Cobb Lane is a favorite hangout for locals and the enclosed biergarten patio is open year-round.

Scan code to access their mobile web page.

Dreamland Bar-B-Que

PHOTOS: BRENT BOYD

1427 14th Avenue South 205.933.2133; dreamlandbbq.com Since opening in May 1993, residents and visitors to Birmingham have been enjoying that “Ain’t nothing like ‘em nowhere” bar-b-que taste. The legendary ribs are served with an expanded menu, including items such as pulled pork, bar-b-que chicken, hickory-smoked sausage, baked beans, cole slaw, potato salad, house salads served with their own bar-b-que dipping sauce and a true Southern favorite for dessert—banana pudding. That renowned sauce is available at all of the Dreamland BarB-Que locations and online in quart size jars.

Located near downtown and UAB, come by and you’ll see why they say, “Ain’t nothing like ‘em.. nowhere.” Scan code to access their mobile web page. ❖ EXCURSIONS 19

Magic City Neighborhoods Birmingham’s neighborhoods are vibrant, diverse and inhabited by folks who thrive off of the energy of being near the city center.

T

here are many older buildings in downtown Birmingham that have been renovated in recent years to allow for downtown living. Developers are also taking advantage of this trend and building new loft-type living spaces with expanded amenities near the city center and the University of Alabama at Birmingham campus. City dwellers enjoy a plethora of restaurants and night spots with new locations opening monthly.

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PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

N E I G H B O R H O O D S F O R E S T PA R K

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N E I G H B O R H O O D S F O R E S T PA R K

Little Savannah Restaurant & Bar

Forest Park

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

Known for it stately and eclectic architecture, Forest Park is one of the oldest and most well-established neighborhoods in the city.

THE HOMES IN FOREST PARK are among the most noted and architecturally significant in the city. Take time to wind through this neighborhood and make your way up to the ridge of Red Mountain where you’ll find the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s President’s mansion and The Altamont School—a college preparatory school with a tradition of excellence.

Triangle Park serves as a focal point and social hub for this neighborhood and is always abuzz with children and parents getting out to enjoy the outdoors. Forest Park is also home to some of the most frequented restaurants, boutiques and art galleries in the city. Little Savannah, this neighborhood’s fine dining restaurant, hosts a weekly farm table experience in the summertime that draws locals and visitors alike. V. Richard’s Market is a fully-stocked neighborhood grocery store and features hand-cut meats and prepared meals. This is a favorite spot for locals for breakfast and lunch. Zoe’s Boutique is widely known as one of the city’s best and most popular consignment shops.

LITTLE SAVANNAH RESTAURANT & BAR

3811 Clairmont Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35223; 205.591.1119; littlesavannah.com FULL CIRCLE DESIGNS

3908 Clairmont Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.202.5907; shopfullcircle.com HIGHLAND PARK GOLF COURSE

3300 Highland Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205; 205.322.1902; highlandparkgolf.com

NAKED ART

3831 Clairmont Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.595.3553; nakedartusa.com SILVERTRON CAFÉ

3813 Clairmont Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.591.3707; silvertroncafe.us V. RICHARD’S MARKET

3916 Clairmont Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.591.7000; vrichards.net ZOE’S BOUTIQUE

3900 Clairmont Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.599.9049; zoeshop.com

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N E I G H B O R H O O D S AV O N D A L E

Avondale This historic Birmingham neighborhood’s revival and transformation is making headlines in publications across the nation.

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41ST STREET PUB & AIRCRAFT SALES

130 41st Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.202.4187; 41ststreetpub.com AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY

201 41st Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.777.5456; avondalebrewing. com BOTTLETREE, INC.

3179 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.533.6288; thebottletree.com

FRESHFULLY MARKET

200 41st Street South, Birmngham, Alabama 35222; 205.383.4574; freshfully.com LOLO’S BBQ

4350 3rd Court South, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.595.0690 PYLE’S CLOCK SHOP

4032 5th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.595.020; pylesclockshop.com ROJO

PARKSIDE CAFÉ

2921 Highland Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205; 205.328.4733; rojobirmingham.com

4036 5th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.595.0920; facebook.com/parksidecafe;

215 41st Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.591.1409

SAW’S SOUL KITCHEN

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

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 Gifts, now Parkside Cafe, was the first to take an old, but sound, two-story building and turn it into one of the hottest spots for twenty- and thirty-somethings in the city. Soon to follow was 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. Saw’s Soul Kitchen was the first restaurant to move in and has garnered recognition of its own for their delectable creations and melt-in-your mouth barbecue. Bottletree is also a pioneer tenant and is noted as one of the top music venues in the southeast. Bottletree books musical acts from across the globe. Another watering hole opened up recently and is enjoying the resurgence of this area—41st Street Pub. They’ve reintroduced a classic cocktail to a new generation—The Moscow Mule.

SPOTLIGHT

OUR FLAGSHIP BREWS

A Belgian style farmhouse ale. The Saison is our 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 our hop blend and malt gives this IPA a victory all its own.

STREETCAR KOSLCH: A German-style ale that has flavor and aroma profiles much like a lager or a pilsner and the lightest and most sessionable brew in our line up.

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.

PACHYDERM PALE WHEAT: An American pale wheat. The aroma is clean and hoppy with hints of citrus. The taste is pleasantly hoppy and smooth.

TASTY SEASONALS: At limited times throughout the year you may also enjoy Brothel Brown, Long Branch Scottish Ale, Mr. Todd’s Double IPA, Strawberry Kolsch, Peach Saison and Spring Kriek Saison. Check our website for what’s currently in season.

SPRING STREET SAISON:

AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY

T

here’s nothing better than good stories told over great beer.

That’s at why Avondale Brewing Company we’ve named all our beers after the folklore of Avondale. We craft our brews with the same unique character and style as the stories they’re named after. A collaboration between brothers Coby and Hunter Lake and brew master Craig Shaw, Avondale Brewing is a locally-owned and operated brewery in the heart of the Deep South. ABC is dedicated to the community and you’ll find that everything we do is about giving back and building up Birmingham. Please visit us and enjoy the fruits of labor. As we like to say, “Trunks Up!”

PHOTOS: BRENT BOYD

OUR TAPROOM 16 inside taps! Come by the brewery for beers in our tap-

room and see us at work crafting delicious brews. We’re open every day for sampling of our latest and greatest handcrafted beverages. Check our Facebook page for tour announcements or to schedule a group tour, please call 205.777.5456 SPECIAL EVENTS, LIVE MUSIC AND FESTIVALS Avondale Brewing Com-

pany is the perfect place for any special event you have. Our spacious upper story is complete with it’s own bar and is accessible from it’s own stairwell for privacy and convenience. Perfect for a wedding, company meetings or formal gathering. Our 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 we’ve got going on!

205.777.5456; 201 41st Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222 www.avondalebrewing.com AvondaleBrewingCompany

EXCURSIONS 25

NEIGHBORHOODS CRESTWOOD

Crestwood A newly renovated modern park serves as the centerpiece and social hub for this highly sought-after neighborhood.

26 EXCURSIONS

BOURBON STREET BAR & LOUNGE

1568 Cooper Hill Road, Birmingham, AL 35210; 205.957.1006 CRESTWOOD COFFEE COMPANY

5512 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35212; 205.595.0300; facebook.com/ crestwood-coffee-company CRESTWOOD TAVERN & GRILL

5500 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35212; 205.510.0053; crestwoodtavern.com

EDGE 12 THEATERS

7001 Crestwood Blvd #1100, Birmingham, AL 35210; 205.595.890; edgetheaters.com EL CAZADOR

1540 Montclair Road, Birmingham, AL 35210; 205.951.1205 OLIVE GARDEN

7701 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35210; 205.591.0731; olivegarden.com

SUSHI VILLAGE

7001 Crestwood Blvd #606, Birmingham, AL 35210; 205.591.0081; sushivillageal.com URBAN COTTAGE

5508 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35212; 205.595.8067; shopurbancottage.com URBAN SUBURBAN

ROMEO’S SPORTING GOODS

5514 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35212; 205.592.0777; urbansuburbanantiques.com

5520 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35212; 205.591.7145; romeossportinggoods.com

7001 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35210; 205.595.0331

WINGS & WAFFLES

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

CRESTWOOD LIES DUE EAST

of downtown Birmingham and is loaded with charming 192030’s era bungalow-style homes, tree-lined streets and 195060’s ranch-style homes. Serving as the hub of this historic neighborhood is the newly renovated Crestwood Park featuring a swimming pool, tennis courts, sports field, playground, walking/running track and outdoor pavilions for entertaining. Conveniently located near the city center, Crestwood homes are among the most desirable for singles and newlywed couples.

CRESTWOOD NEIGHBORHOODS

Crestwood Tavern & Grill 5500 Crestwood Blvd; 205.510.0053; crestwoodtavern.com Crestwood Tavern & Grill is one of those cozy neighborhood bars that locals f lock to after work for happy hour and on the weekends to meet up with friends and make new friends. Conveniently located near downtown Birmingham and the airport in the diverse Crestwood neighborhood, this night spot has everything you need to quench your thirst and also serves up some of your favorite bar foods like bacon ranch cheese fries and a whole array of mouth-watering paninis and pizzas. The owner continues to add great new menu items in addition to those mentioned above to satisfy your hunger until late in the evening.

Crestwood Tavern & Grill offers a clean and smoke free environment with all the trimmings: large flat screen televisions, spacious outdoor patio, a pool table, video games and a friendly staff…everything you need for a fun night out all in one delicious, neighborhood tavern and grill. Monday – Friday open at 3pm, Saturday and Sunday open at 4pm, happy hour 3 – 7 pm weekdays.

Urban Suburban 5514 Crestwood Blvd; 205.592.0777; urbansuburbanantiques.com This is definitely not what an antiques store used to be. Located in the City of Birmingham’s hip and cool Crestwood neighborhood, Urban Suburban showcases the collections of more than 60 not-so-traditional antiques dealers and vendors of vintage items. Ecclectic, creative and re-purposed are among the adjectives describing this “must visit” store. Designated “Best Antiques Store” by two local publications’ reader’s polls in 2012.

PHOTOS: (LEFT) BRENT BOYD; (RIGHT) CARLA JOHNSON

Moving to Birmingham?

Jeff Richardson is your relocation expert in Metro Birmingham. Whether you are moving here for work, school or retirement, Jeff will assist you in finding the perfect home.

Put his years of knowledge and experience in the Birmingham metropolitan market to work and he will match you with the condominium, house or townhome of your dreams.

A few of Jeff’s recent accomplishments:

2012 Coldwell Banker Preferred Properties Top Producer, 2010 Wall Street Journal Top 100 Agents in the US, 2010 Prudential Real Estate Chairman’s Circle Gold, 2010 Prudential Real Estate Top 100 Agents in North America, 2009 BAR Diamond Level Club of Excellence...

Contact Jeff Richardson today 205.470.1307 Jeff.Richardson1@coldwellbanker.com

Scan the QR code to save Jeff’s information.

Specializing in Crestwood, Forest Park, Avondale, Mtn Brook, Vestavia, Homewood, Hoover, Gardendale and Pelham.

EXCURSIONS 27

Birmingham’s Closest Neighbors The smaller, yet influentual, cities surrounding Birmingham each have a vibe and pace of their own.

T

he City of Birmingham borders thirteen smaller, yet influentual cities. They are Homewood, Moutain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Hoover to the south, Irondale, Trussville and Leeds to the east, Forestdale, Tarrant City and Fultondale to the north, Midfield, Fairfield and Bessemer to the west. Most of them support their own school systems and those that do not are incorporated into the Jefferson County School system. Until recently, population growth has trended south of Birmingham down the Highway 280 and Interstate 65 corridors. Newer population growth is now trending north and east of the city center The suburbs enjoy a bit more space and have made prime target locations for the area’s best shopping plazas. Although, many of the older suburbs strongly support smaller city centers and villages where local retailers and restaurateurs have flourished for decades, and often, for many family generations. Each of the suburbs metioned in this publication offer a little something extra special, and that’s why we have chosen to highlight each of them. It is very likely that the hotel in which you are staying is located in one of these suburbs, and we wouldn’t want you to miss out on what you can do within a few minutes of your hotel.

Get out and explore and be sure to tell our advertisers that we pointed you in their direction.

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EXCURSIONS 29

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

City of Fultondale Come see why we are the fastest-growing city in the county.

THE CITY OF FULTONDALE WAS ONCE a mining town in the early 1900s. Once known as Fulton Springs, Fultondale was incorporated in 1947 and formed a government including a mayor and five-city councilman. With this leadership, the first fire truck was purchased and a city hall was built where the municipal city park is today.

Prior to the building of Interstate 65, U.S. Highway 31 was the main route for travelers northbound from Birmingham towards Nashville, Tenn. As a result, hotels such as the Keystone Lodge and Buchmann Motor Inn prospered. On the city’s southern edge was 30 EXCURSIONS

located one of the few drive-in theatres in the Birmingham area.

This was torn down when I-65 was built in the late 60s and early 70s. The Pine Bowl bowling alley is still a longtime fixture in the city. Traces of the old routing of U.S. Highway 31 are still noticeable in the city. From just south of the city hall to an old bridge on the city’s northern side, most of this old routing is known as Stouts Road, or in some cases simply, “Old U.S. 31.”

The city is located north on Interstate I-65 only minutes from downtown Birmingham. It is one of the fastest-growing communities in Jefferson County both commercially and residentially.

PHOTO: © MONKEY BUSINESS IMAGES | DREAMSTIME.COM

S U B U R B S F U LT O N D A L E

F U LT O N D A L E S U B U R B S

PHOTOS: © ULYSSENEVED | DREAMSTIME.COM (TOP LEFT); © ZENOWAI | DREAMSTIME.COM (TOP LEFT); © EMIL GINANG | DREAMSTIME.COM (MIDDLE LEFT); © ANDRES RODRIGUEZ | DREAMSTIME.COM (MIDDLE RIGHT)

EAT WITH US!

The recent boon in Fultondale has yielded a variety of restaurants from fast to fine.

Stix, Logans Roadhouse, Firehouse Subs, Casa Fiesta, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, Chili’s, Chick-fil-a, Outback Steakhouse, O’Charley’s, Zaxby’s, Applebees, Jack’s Hamburgers, Hardee’s, Whataburger, Full Moon Bar-B-Que and On Tap Sports Café round out the list. You should also check out some local favorites like Faye’s Famous Franks, Porky’s Pride Smoke House and Butterflies Garden Tea Room.

PLAY WITH US! STAY WITH US!

Fultondale is home to several hotels with convenient access to downtown Birmingham and The Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. Be sure to make your next reservations at one their fine hotels.

Whether it’s an old-fashioned carnival in the summertime and in the fall, or the Black Creek Arts Festival in June, or knocking down the pins at one of the area’s longest-running bowling alleys, The Pine Bowl, you’ll find something to amuse you in Fultondale.

SHOP WITH US!

Fultondale is home to the Fultondale Promenade Center, with a variety of big box retailers including Books-A-Million, Target, JC Penney, Best Buy and Ashley Furniture. There’s also an array of local retailers and boutique shops like Butterf lies—where you’ll find the perfect ball gown or accessory.

GROW WITH US!

Fultondale is an ideal place to buy a first home, bring up a family and start or relocate a business. This city still has the charm of a small town with access to big-city amenities.

Just recently, Fultondale has enjoyed tremendous business and residential growth thanks to the leadership of Mayor Jim Lowery.

Fultondale boasts a brand-new, modern elementary school, several new residential developments and continues expanding commercially along Interstate 65 and Old Highway 31. I-22 will help form a freeway to connect downtown Atlanta with Birmingham, Memphis, Little Rock, and Oklahoma City. Slated for completion in late 2014, I-22 will promote additional growth and interest in this area.

EXCURSIONS 31

SUBURBS HOMEWOOD

City of Homewood STROLLING FROM STORE TO STORE, window-shopping. sipping on a coffee and catching the happy hour specials are a favorite pasttime for many who frequent downtown Homewood.

Dowtown Homewood offers the charm and convenience of oldfashioned shopping and dining, while offering everything from antiques, to home accessories, to the latest fashions for women, 32 EXCURSIONS

men and children of all ages. And don’t miss the variety of food options in downtown and Soho Square. Many downtown Homewood merchants have thrived in this area for decades. Whether you are staying in downtown Birmingham, on the Highway 280 corridor or in Hoover, downtown Homewood is easy to find and well worth your time.

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

Historic Downtown Homewood is home to the most eclectic mix of shops, boutiques and eateries in the area.

HOMEWOOD SUBURBS

Art & Antiques ARGENT

2949 18th St. S. 205.871.4221; argentantiques.com CHRISTOPHER GLENN, INC.

2713 19th St. S. 205.870.1236; christopherglenninc.com NOORDERMEER ANTIEKS

731 Broadway, 205.870.1161; noordermeerantiques.com SOHO RETRO

2805 18th Street S. 205.870.7655; shopsohoretro.com TRICIA’S TREASURES

2700 19th Place S. 205.871.9779; triciastreasures.us AMANDA SCHEDLER FINE ART

2815-A 18th St. S. 205.870.4772 Ruth’s Chris Steak House

ART ALLEY

109 Broadway St. 205.879.1105; artalley.net DS ART STUDIO GALLERY

2805 Crescent Ave., Ste. E. 205.802.4700; dsart.com

Dining BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE

591 Brookwood Village 205.879.9177; brioitalian.com COCINA SUPERIOR

587 Brookwood Village 205.259.1980; thecocinasuperior.com COSTA’S FAMOUS BAR-B-QUE

PHOTOS: (TOP) RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE; (BOTTOM) BRENT BOYD

215 Lakeshore Parkway 205.263.0145 DAVE’S PIZZA

1819 29th Ave. S. 205.871.3283; davesontheweb.com DEMETRI’S BBQ

1901 28th Ave. S. 205.871.1581; demetrisbbq.com DE VINCI’S PIZZA

2707 18th St. S. 205.879.1455; devincispizza.wordpress.com DO DI YO’S

1831 28th Ave. S., Ste. 110 205.453.9300; dodiyos.com EDGEWOOD CREAMERY

936 Oxmoor Road 205.874.1999

GIANMARCO’S

NABEEL’S CAFE & MARKET

PINCHES TACOS

721 Broadway St. 205.871.9622

1706 Oxmoor Rd. 205.879.9292; nabeels.com

300 Hallman Hill E. #109 205.536.6511; pinchestacos.com

HOMEWOOD GOURMET

NAJI’S PITA GOURMET RESTAURANT

1919 28th Ave. S. #103 205.871.1620; homewoodgourmet.com JACKSON’S BAR & BISTRO

1831 28th Ave. S., Ste. 175 205.870.9669; jacksonsbarandbistro.com JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q

220 Oxmoor Rd. 205.942.3336; jimnnicks.com

166 West Valley Ave. 205.945.6001 OAK HILL BAR & GRILL

2835 18th St. S. 205.870.8277 O’CARR’S DELI

2909 18th St. S., 205.879.2196

JINSEI SUSHI BAR & LOUNGE

PHO QUE HUONG VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

1830 29th Ave. S. 205.802.1440; jinseisushi.com

430 Green Springs Hwy 205.942.5400

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE

2300 Woodcrest Place 205.879.9995; ruthschris.com SAW’S BBQ

1008 Oxmoor Road 205.879.1937; sawsbbq.com STEEL CITY POPS

2821 Central Avenue #109 205.969.8770; steelcitypops.com URBAN COOKHOUSE

2846 18th St. S. 205.879.0883; urbancookhouse.com

LANDRY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE

139 State Farm Parkway 205.916.0777; landrysseafoodhouse.com LITTLE DONKEY MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2821 Central Avenue #101 205.703.7000; thelittledonkey.com MICHAEL’S RESTAURANT @ ALOFT HOTEL

1903 29th Ave. S. 205.871.9525; eatatmichaels.com MOMMA GOLDBERG’S DELI

2829 18th St. S. 205.834.8871; mommagoldbergsdeli.com

O’Carr’s Deli

EXCURSIONS 33

SUBURBS HOMEWOOD

Collage Designer Consignment 1802 29th Avenue South; 205.879.6163; shopcollage.com

Homewood Antiques & Marketplace 930 Oxmoor Road; 205.414.9945; homewoodantiques.com Located at the corner of Broadway and Oxmoor in Homewood, Homewood Antiques & Marketplace is home to more than 90 vendors constantly adding to and updating their “spaces,” transforming the store almost daily. With her whole family pitching in to make the store a success since 2010, owner Chris Collins does her best to make all of her customers feel like family, too. Open everyday!

You may have seen Collage on Lifetime Television, FoxBusiness, Southern Living and Entrepreneur magazine, but it is nothing like experiencing Collage in person. For over twenty years, Collage has outfitted well-heeled women from news anchors to attorneys to team moms and has consistently attracted merchandise from the most exclusive closets in the Southeast. From Chico’s to Armani, Stuart Weitzman to Jimmy Choo, you’ll find the labels you love in a cozy boutique atmosphere with plenty of personal attention or space to browse, all at prices less than wholesale. For details or to shop online, please visit us at ShopCollage. com, Facebook.com/shopcollage, and at CollageTV on YouTube.

Landry’s Seafood Taste. Laugh. Live. All at Landry’s Seafood. The true flavor of Gulf Coast tradition is all about family, warmth and exceptional seafood. Landry’s Seafood strives to bring all of those things together in each and every location, providing a fun-filled dining experience that will make you want to drop your anchor and never leave. So sit back, relax and take part in the Landry’s Seafood experience. You’ll do enough tasting, laughing and living for an entire lifetime.

Landry’s is conveniently just of I-65 near a plethora of hotels in the Wildwood Shopping Complex in western Homewood.

34 EXCURSIONS

PHOTOS: (TOP LEFT AND RIGHT) BRENT BOYD

139 State Farm Parkway; 205.916.0777; landrysseafood.com

HOMEWOOD SUBURBS

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 2300 Woodcrest Place, at The Embassy Suites Hotel; 205.879.9995; ruthschris.com

Soca Clothing 2820 18th Street South; 205.879.6788; socaclothing.com

PHOTO: (BOTTOM) BRENT BOYD; (TOP) RUTHS CHRIS STEAKHOUSE

Located on the prominent 18th Street in Downtown Homewood, Soca Clothing offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of contemporary women’s apparel and a vast collection of designer denim. Locals frequently refer to Soca as “Birmingham’s denim destination.” Voted “Best Boutique” two years in a row by Birmingham magazine readers. You can shop at Soca Clothing in Tuscaloosa, Ala. and Nashville, Tenn., also.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Birmingham, Alabama is situated in the lobby of the Embassy Suites hotel conveniently located just off the Red Mountain Expressway between the Homewood and Mountain Brook neighborhoods. Deep, rich reds with accents of teal and copper predominate the steakhouse dining room while the dense foliage of the open atrium hotel envelops our restaurant in an air of casual elegance. Private dining rooms offer a variety of event options for 10 to 300 guests. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, an important business luncheon, a social event or an all-day meeting, Ruth’s Chris Birmingham can accommodate your needs. Voted “Best Steaks” Readers of The Birmingham News and Best Steak House

by Fox 6 “Best Of.”

Soho Retro 2805 18th Street South; 205.870.7655; shopsohoretro.com Billed as a “vintage, modern and antiques” shop, you’ll find plenty of mid-20th century finds blended with a contemporary look at Soho Retro.

Owner Steve Thomas is constantly on the prowl for the most unique items. The most frequently comment from customers is that Soho Retro always leaves them smiling. A browse among the unique selection of furniture, accessories, linens and jewelry will take you back to the “modern” era, and provide you with a whole new “retro” experience. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm.

EXCURSIONS 35

S U B U R B S M O U N TA I N B R O O K

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, treelined streets and magnificent homes.

Mountain Brook is also home to some of the most unique shops in the city, packaged together in areas that feel like little towns. These three distinct villages, English Village, Crestline Village and Mountain Brook Village, are similar but different and worthy of investigating. Each of these villages has its own 36 EXCURSIONS

f lair, great variety of privately owned specialty retailers, and fine and casual restaurants.

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 the a host of celebrities including Wayne Rogers, Kate Jackson, Courteney Cox and former Green Bay Packers quarterback, Bart Starr.

PHOTO: JEFFREY REASE

The perfect location for a stroll to enjoy some of the area’s best salons, shopping, eating and beautiful homes.

M O U N TA I N B R O O K S U B U R B S

Dram Whiskey Bar 2721 Cahaba Road; 205.871.8212; www.dramwhiskeybar.com Whiskey-soaked and country-ham-smoked, Dram deftly combines one of the country’s most extensive whiskey lists with gourmet burgers and Kentucky and Tennessee’s unique Upper South cuisine in a comfortable neighborhood hangout of refurbished wood from an old bluegrass tobacco barn. Sip a rare single-barrel, munch on okra fries or country ham sliders and enjoy a Hot Brown or the featured burger with western Kentucky bacon, cave-aged gouda cheese and a housemade bun. Y’all come!

Avo Restaurant 2721 Cahaba Road; 205.871.8212; avorestaurant.com Chef-driven cuisine, prepared in an elegant yet straightforward style. Fresh local produce. Seafood shipped straight from the Gulf or Atlantic, including fresh oysters. Prime cuts of meat trimmed in-house. Hard-to-source artisan cheeses and aged meats. A wine list of smaller-production West Coast wines. Craft beers from across the South and beyond. A clean, modern look.

Covered outdoor dining or seating at a kitchen counter. All this is Avo. Step inside to casual, friendly finer dining with service and attention focused on you instead of them. You are welcome at Avo.

Salon 2412

PHOTO: (BOTTOM) BRENT BOYD

2412 Canterbury Road; 205.414.7854; salon2412.com Salon 2412 offers a complete range of professional services including haircuts and styles for men and women, hair color, nail services, brow shaping and waxing, event hair and bridal services. They also boast an extensive line of Oribe products and is excited to offer Shellac for nails. Salon 2412’s professional stylists and manicurists are among the most knowledgeable and experienced in the business and you will be treated like royalty in this high-styled, modern salon. Call them to make an appointment today!

EXCURSIONS 37

S U B U R B S M O U N TA I N B R O O K

CIRCA INTERIORS & ANTIQUES

A’MANO

2831 Culver Road 205.868.9199

2707 Culver Road 205.871.9093; amanogifts.com ATCHISON GALLERY & VILLAGE FRAMERS

2847 Culver Road 205.871.6221 GALLERIE ALEGRIA

600 Olde English Lane, Ste. 128 205.868.9320; galleriealegria.com

HENHOUSE ANTIQUES

1900 Cahaba Road 205.918.0505; shophenhouseantiques.com HENRY MAUS ANTIQUES

2734 Cahaba Road 205.240.0014; henryausantiques.com LAMB’S EARS, LTD

LAMB’S EARS, LTD.

70 Church Street 205.802.5700; lambsearsltd.com

70 Church St. 205.802.5700; lambsearsltd.com

MARTHA LAUREN ANTIQUE LINENS & ACCESSORIES

THE COMMISSARY

2417 Canterbury Road 205.871.2283

4984 Overton Road 205.747.0814; bhamcommissary.com CHARLOTTE WOODSON ANTIQUES

2410 Canterbury Road 205.871.3314; charlottewoodson.com

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MULBERRY HEIGHTS ANTIQUES

2419 Canterbury Road 205.870.1300 VILLAGE FIREFLY

2816 Culver Road 205.870.4560

Dining

CRESTLINE BAGEL AND PIZZA

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE

66 Church St. Ste. B 205.871.4583

2418 Montevallo Road 205.871.7849; anotherbrokenegg.com AVO

2721 Cahaba Road 205.871.8212; avorestaurant.com DRAM WHISKEY BAR

2721 Cahaba Road 205.871.8212; dramwhiskeybar.com BILLY’S SPORTS GRILL

2012 Cahaba Road 205.879.2238; billysbarandgrill.com BONGIORNO ITALIAN RESTAURANT

68 Church St., Ste. A 205.879.5947; bongiornoitalianrestaurant.com CHEZ LULU/CONTINENTAL BAKERY

1911 Cahaba Road 205.870.7011; continentalbakeryandchezlulu.com

DANIEL GEORGE

2837 Culver Road 205.871.3266; danielgeorgerestaurant.com DAVENPORT’S PIZZA PALACE

2837 Cahaba Road 205.879.8603 DYRON’S LOWCOUNTRY

121 Oak St. 205.834.8257; dyronslowcountry.com LA PAZ RESTAURANTE

99 Euclid Ave. 205.879.2225, lapazbham.com OLEXA’S

2838 Culver Road; 205.871.2060; olexas.com SAW’S JUKE JOINT

1115 Dunston Ave. 205.745.3920

PHOTOS: BRENT BOYD

Art & Antiques

HOOVER SUBURBS

The walking trail around the lake at Aldridge Gardens offers a peaceful and picturesque respite from the bustling city that surrounds it.

City of Hoover

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

Alabama’s largest retail center, The Riverchase Galleria, helped put Hoover on a path of rapid growth both residentially and commercially.

THE LARGEST SUBURB SURROUNDING BIRMINGHAM sits directly to the south of the downtown area. A quick trip south on Interstate 65 will give you some of the best, and most diverse, shopping and dining options. Encompassing more than 83,000 people and approximately 48 square miles, Hoover is the sixth largest city in the state.

Incorporated in 1967, the city is now home to many of the area’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment venues. The Riverchase Galleria and Patton Creek anchor the area’s many shopping locations and restaurants, but certainly aren’t the only places to visit

in this modern city. And, for the not-so-modern, don’t miss the Hoover Antique Gallery, filled with items sure to interest anyone.

For nightlife, look no further than Hoover for a place to join locals for a drink, listen to live music or catch the game. Pub 261 and The Back Nine Bar are two local favorite hot spots.

The Riverchase Galleria in Hoover is one of Alabama’s most frequented tourist attractions. If you’re looking to get away from the bustle of the city, Hoover is also home to Moss Rock Preserve, a 350-acre nature preserve and Aldridge Gardens, a 30-acre showcase for a variety of plants.

EXCURSIONS 39

SUBURBS HOOVER

Pub 261 Hoover Antique Gallery 3411 Old Columbiana Road; 205.822-9500; hooverantiquegallery.com You will find one of Alabama’s largest and best traditional antiques malls conveniently located in the heart of the City of Hoover. This store is home to 85 vendors displaying a vast variety of vintage furnishings and collectibles, jewelry, china, glassware and home décor. Selections are always changing as items arrive daily. Truly, there are items for all styles, tastes, generations and budgets.

Pub 261 is a great place to come relax after work, or stop in for a quick cold one, or to party the weekend away with some amazing local bands! Monday – Friday we offer a lunch special with good ol’ home cooking meat and three veggies for only $6.95! Join us for happy hour Monday – Friday 11 am – 7 pm with $1.50 Pints, $2 longnecks, $3.50 wells, $5 margarita’s and bloody mary’s and $6 pitchers. There’s something going on here every night of the week, except Sundays! Check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/pub-261 for the daily specials and live music line up. Conveniently located near Hoover, Pelham and Hwy 280 Corridor hotels.

The Back Nine Bar 611 Doug Baker Blvd; 205.981.4588; thebackninebar.com Come into The Back Nine Bar today for great appetizers, live music, a game room and HDTVs. Watch your favorite sporting events on our high-defintion TVs or on our 16’ highdefinition projection screen. Our menu features all of your favorite bar foods with game day specials, too. We have three pool tables and a stage for live music, featuring some of the areas top bands. During football season, enjoy live music on Fridays and Saturdays. During the off-season, live music is on Wednesday through Saturday. Happy hour 3 – 7 pm Monday – Friday.

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PHOTOS: (TOP LEFT) CARLA JOHNSON; (TOP RIGHT) © RON CHAPPLE | DREAMSTIME.COM; (BOTTOM) NICOLE NORMAN

9340 Helena Road, Suite C, Pelham; 205.444.0261; pub261.net

HOOVER SUBURBS

Art & Antiques ARCENEAUX GALLERY

2880 Old Rocky Ridge Road 205.824-5800 ON-A-SHOESTRING

601 Shades Crest Road 205.822-8741 GREYSTONE ANTIQUES

5475 Hwy. 280, Inverness 205.995-4773 FOUR CORNERS GALLERY

4700 Hwy. 280, Ste. B 205.980-2600; fourcornersgalleryonline.com

Dining BONEFISH GRILL

GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE

1571 Montgomery Hwy. 205.823.7770; goldenrulebbq.com HABANEROS MEXICAN GRILL

1601 Montgomery Hwy. 205.979.7772 HUNAN GARDEN

1851 Montgomery Hwy 205.987.9499 IRON HORSE CAFE

1694 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 184 205.978.5599; ironhorsecafe.net IZ CAFÉ ROCKY RIDGE

2514 Rocky Ridge Road 205.979.7570; cafeiz.com

3430 Galleria Circle 205.985.9545; bonefishgrill.com

J. ALEXANDER’S RESTAURANT

BROCK’S

3320 Galleria Circle 205.733.9995; jalexanders.com

4000 Grand Ave.; 205.949.3051 CAFE LAZIO

1810 Montgomery Hwy. S. 205.733.1300; jimnnicks.com

CAJUN STEAMER BAR AND GRILL

JUBILEE JOE’S FRESH SEAFOOD MARKET & RESTAURANT

CARINO’S ITALIAN GRILL

4330 Creekside Ave. 205.560.0505; carinos.com CHICORY GRILLE

1000 Riverchase Galleria 205.444.5739; wynfrey.com CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL

1759 Montgomery Hwy. 205.982.4833; chipotle.com COSTA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE

3443 Lorna Rd., 205.978.1603 DAVE’S DELI

1615 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 124 205.822.8000 EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY

180 Main St., Ste. 240 205.987.0790; edgarsbakery.com FISH MARKET RESTAURANT

Stone’s Throw Bar & Grill

JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q

181 Main St., Ste. 241 205.403.7480, cafelazio.net

180 Main St., Ste. 200 205.985.7785

PHOTO: STONE’S THROW BAR & GRILL

GABRIEL’S SPIRITED CAFE

3706 Lorna Rd. 205.985.0983; gabrielscafe.net

2341 John Hawkins Parkway Ste. 119, 205.982.7797; jubileejoes.com KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS

1990 New Patton Chapel Rd. 205.822.8272 LA DOLCE VITA

1851 Montgomery Hwy. S., Ste. 107, 205.985.2909 LLOYD’S RESTAURANT

5301 Hwy. 280 S., Birmingham 205.991.5530 MELLOW MUSHROOM

920 Inverness Corners; 205.981.9914; mellowmushroom.com MR. P’S BUTCHER SHOP & DELI

RAGTIME CAFE

TAQUERIA MEXICO

2080 Valleydale Rd., Ste. 4 205.988.5323

3724 Lorna Rd., 205.989.5559

RIVER CITY GRILLE

3321 Lorna Rd., Ste. 3 205.978.6863

3590 Grandview Parkway 205.968.3775 SALVATORE’S PIZZA

1594 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 102M 205.823.7206 SANPEGGIO’S PIZZA

SHANE’S RIB SHACK

TORTUGAS HOMEMADE PIZZA

2673 Valleydale Rd. 205.874.6888, shanesribshack.com SHIPLEY’S DO-NUTS

2050 Greenvale Lane 205.822.2142 SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE

Wynfrey Hotel. 1000 Riverchase Galleria; 205.444.5750 SILVER COIN INDIAN GRILL

3321 Lorna Rd. 205.823.9070; silvercoinusa.com

ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ

SOL AZTECA

3440 Galleria Circle 205.988.3203; ontapsportscafe.com

1360 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 128 205.979.4902

FORMAGGIO’S ITALIAN BISTRO

PABLO’S RESTAURANTE & CANTINA

STONE’S THROW BAR & GRILL

FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE

PUB 261

2000 Patton Chapel Rd. 205.822.6666

9340 Helena Rd., 205.444.0261 pub261.net

THE PITA CAFE

2801 Hwy. 150, Ste. 137J 205.402.7482

813 Shades Crest Rd. 205.823.6136

2760 John Hawkins Parkway 205.682.1211

THE BACK NINE BAR

611 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste. 105 205.981.4588

3435 S. Shades Crest Rd., Ste. 115 205.403.0100

1681 Montgomery Hwy. 205.823.3474; fishmarketrestaurant.com

1779-A Montgomery Hwy. 205.989.7999

TASTE OF THAILAND

3 Mt Laurel Ave. 205.995.0512; stonesthrowgrill.com SUPERIOR GRILL

4701 Hwy. 280 S., 205.991.5112

2801 John Hawkins Parkway Ste. 169R, 205.403.9800 TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE

3439 Colonnade Parkway, Ste. 1700, 205.968.6622; tazikis.net WINE’D DOWN

180 Main St., Ste. 212 205.988.9463; wineddown.com VILLAGE TAVERN

101 Summit Boulevard 205.970.1640; villagetavern.com ZAPATA MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2005 Valleydale Rd., Ste. 3 205.733.1115 ZOE’S KITCHEN

180 Main St., Ste. 140 205.989.4020; zoeskitchen.com ❖

EXCURSIONS 41

Get Ready, Get Set, Shop!

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.

Colonial Brookwood Village, located in Homewood, combines the convenience of a traditional mall with the ambiance and novelty of village shopping. Department stores, Belk and Macy’s, anchor each end of the two-level mall with unique couture shops and a food court in between. Travel outside for a bite at one of several restaurants like Cocina Superior.

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Historic downtown Homewood is best known for its sidewalk shopping as well as its mom-and-pop-style eateries, and now is home to a brand-new development called SoHo—a place to shop, eat and live that can rival even the trendiest of neighborhoods.

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.

Come to downtown Birmingham to 2nd Avenue North, where you’ll find Levy’s Fine Jewelry. Specializing in antique and estate jewelry, Levy’s offers a huge selection of loose stones and designer pieces.

Whereever 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.

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This town offers shoppers a run for their money.

COLONIAL BROOKWOOD VILLAGE Conveniently located in Homewood right off 280 Highway, shoppers find specialty stores as well as larger retailers such as Macy’s, Belk and Books-A-Million. Also houses several particularly good restaurants. Garage and courtesy valet parking is available. Located on Shades Creek Parkway (Alabama 149) between U.S. 280 and U.S. 31 just minutes from downtown Birmingham. shopcolonialbrookwood.com CRESTWOOD FESTIVAL CENTER The Edge 12 Theater is one of the most popular attractions at Crestwood Festival.

Voted “Best Movie Theater” by Birmingham News readers in 2011, The Edge’s auditoriums feature wall-to-wall screens, stadium seating with 18-inch risers for perfectly clear, unobstructed views, high back rocker chairs with articulating backs and lifting cup holder armrests for the ultimate in comfort and state-of-the-art Dolby Digital surround! Also check out these restaurants and retailers: Anna’s Linens, Burlington Coat Factory, Dress Code, Furniture Warehouse and Décor, Stylz Menswear, Sushi Village and Wings and Waffles. crestwoodfestivalcenter.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 PATTON CREEK Combines a “main street” element with parking and sidewalks in front of an eclectic mix of quaint, unique shops and restaurants, with larger retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Rave Motion Pictures. In the Birmingham suburb of Hoover between

I-459, the Riverchase Galleria, and Alabama 150. pattoncreek.com PEPPER PLACE MARKET Formerly the Dr. Pepper Syrup Plant and Bottling Company, Pepper Place is the focal point of the Lakeview District in the Southside area of Birmingham. Since the Pepper Place Market’s inception in 1999, it has become a great event for Birmingham during the summer. The market is open, rain or shine. All Pepper Place Markets open promptly at 7 am and close at noon each market day. Pepper Place also anchors the design district. pepperplacemarket.com.

PINNACLE TUTWILER FARM The booming suburb of Trussville includes three large shopping areas. Target, Booksa-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 Belk and 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 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 Wynfrey Hotel. U.S. 31 and Alabama 150 at I-459. An extensive renovation began this year. riverchasegalleria.com THE SUMMIT This shopping destination continues to thrive and expand. A recent addition brought shops 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 The Village Tavern. At I-459 and U.S. 280. thesummitonline.com THE VILLAGE AT LEE BRANCH This 86-acre development includes retail, entertainment, and office use. The retail portion fronts on U. S. Highway 280, the major corridor of the booming North Shelby County market area. Retailers and restaurants include: Publix Super Market, Academy Sports, Rave Motion Pictures, Hobby Lobby and unique restaurants, such as Classic Joe’s, Bella Cucina, The Melting Pot, Taziki’s, Pablo’s Restaurante & Cantina and Octane Café and The Back Nine Sports Bar & Grill.

THE VILLAGES OF MOUNTAIN BROOK In the heart of the suburb of Mountain Brook, there are three distinct shopping areas linked by tree-lined sidewalks.

Named for the community and home to its heart, Mt Brook Village presents visitors with a complete range of shopping and dining options. Tucked into classic European architecture with blocks of walking charm, it’s a piece of history perfect for finding something simple or simply amazing. No place else offers as much variety for everyone. A fun and friendly, walkable downtown area and tot-lots near the Emmet O’Neal Library prove that around here, kids are king, while the one of a kind boutiques and jaw-dropping restaurants give Mom and Dad plenty of reasons to keep coming back. With its quirky mix of French bistros, stylish salons and game day favorites, English Village puts an eclectic twist on quaint Old World charm. High atop Red Mountain, its sidewalk cafés and smiling statues offer an English country town in the heart of the Deep South. shopmountainbrook.com ❖ EXCURSIONS 43

SHOPPING GALLERIA

MOUNTAIN HIGH OUTFITTERS Outdoor clothing, shoes and gear from top brands: The North Face, Patagonia, TOMS, Chaco, Life is Good, Southern Marsh and YETI Coolers.

GODIVA The premier maker of fine Belgian chocolate since 1926.

HARPER-LANE Live Beautifully, Shop Locally! An exclusive, locally-owned showroom featuring one-of-a-kind fashion accessories for you and your home.

Specializing in being different, because you are!

BAREMINERALS Free of preservatives, fillers and binders, bareMinerals represents the ideal mix of makeup and skincare — problem solving cosmetics that perfect and pamper.

CLARKS Clarks Kids – Growing Feet in Safe Hands.

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LOTUS BOUTIQUE Trendy boutique offering the latest fashions in clothing and accessories at affordable prices!

GALLERIA SHOPPING

THE CHILDREN’S PLACE Offering fashion forward clothes that combine the comfort kids demand with the practicality and great prices of which parents dream. From newborn to size 14 and everything from dress up to outerwear.

SWAROVSKI Adding sparkle to people’s everyday life with jewelry, accessories and home décor.

BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP

FRANCESCA’S COLLECTION Unique boutique defined by fabulous clothing, shoes, accessories and gifts!

Have a family fun experience at Build-A-Bear Workshop®, Where Best Friends Are Made®.

You can choose from over 30 bears, bunnies, dogs and more to make. Then, give it a unique personality with outfits, accessories, sounds and even a message you record! The PAWsibilities are endless! buildabear.com

THE LEGO STORE Lego toys, experiences and teaching materials for children of all ages.

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J.JILL Wear it now, love it always. J.Jill is leading a multichannel fashion retailer of women’s apparel and accessories. We are known for comfort and an uncomplicated approach to style for real life today.

BRIGHTON COLLECTIBLES Brighton’s mission is to create a warm and wonderful shopping experience.

All of our items are handmade with exceptional quality. You can always find the perfect item for yourself or a special someone. Come in to receive a warm chocolate chip cookie and a cold bottle of water.

EXCURSIONS 45

THE OUTLET SHOPS OF GRAND RIVER SHOPPING

BOSE FACTORY STORE World-wide innovating brand offering the leading sound technology to you.

BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY STORE The premier destination for timeless Banana Republic style at brilliant prices.

LE CREUSET Innovative designs and exceptional handmade quality since 1925.

NINE WEST OUTLET A world-renowned fashion leader offering a quick edit of the runways, pinpointing the “must-have” looks of each season.

KAY JEWELERS The No. 1 specialty jewelry brand in the United States offering fine jewelry at a great price since 1916.

FOSSIL A global retailer specializing in the design, innovation and marketing of fashion lifestyle and accessory products offering authenticity and a distinctive vintage-inspired design aesthetic.

NIKE FACTORY STORE

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The world’s leading innovator in athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories.

JOHNSTON & MURPHY FACTORY STORE A leading manufacturer with a premium selection of men’s and women’s footwear, accessories, apparel and gifts.

EXCURSIONS 47

Main Attractions The Birmingham Metro area offers a broad range of attractions worth getting out of your hotel room.

48 EXCURSIONS

AT T R A C T I O N S Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame Outside on the sidewalk, visitors can feel the rhythm. From the boogie-woogie 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 am – 5 pm.

Admission. 1631 4th Ave. N. 205.327.9424; jazzhall.com Alabama Museum of Health Sciences Located on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the museum is noted for its collection of small ivory 16th and 17th century anatomical models, a collection of wax moulage and an antique iron lung. The museum also houses a collection of rare and important medical books and manuscripts dating to the Middle Ages. Open Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm. Lister Hill Library, University of Alabama at Birmingham. 1700 University Blvd.

205.934.4475; uab.edu/historical/museum 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 am – 5 pm. 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 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. 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 Birmingham area’s “best kept secret.” Aldrige Gardens, Nature and Art in Balance.

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 am, noon and 2 pm.

Special programs for groups by appointment. Admission. 3727 Highway 119, Montevallo; 205.665.3535; americanvillage.org EXCURSIONS 49

AT T R A C T I O N S

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Home to the world’s best motorcycle collection, the museum now has more than 1,200 vintage and modern motorcycles and racecars and the largest collection of Lotus cars, as well as other significant makes. The collection is the largest of its kind in the world.

Approximately 600 of the 1,200 motorcycles in the collection are on display at any given time. These bikes range from 1902 to current-year production. Common street bikes are represented, as well as rare 50 EXCURSIONS

Gran Prix race machinery.

The museum is adjacent to Barber Motorsports Park, a world-class 2.3 mile road course and home to the Honda Grand Prix of Alabama. Open Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm; Sunday, noon – 5 pm. Admission. 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway; 205.699.7275; 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 also has the largest public horticulture library in the U.S., conservatories, a wildflower garden, two rose 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 Road; 205.414.390; 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 Avenue North and 16th Street. Follow maps on signs.

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 African-Americans 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 life-size figures representing all ages and races to portray the “walk to freedom.”

Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10

am – 5 pm; Sunday, 1 – 5 pm.

Admission. 520 16th St. N., 205.328.9696; bcri.org Birmingham History Center Located in the historic Young & Vann building, the center has exhibits that trace the history of Birmingham and its people from early settlers to the present. The collection includes information on the city’s founding, the Great Depression and, maybe most interesting, “notorious Birmingham” stories and pictures.

Open Monday – Friday, 9 am – 4:30 pm. Tours after hours by appointment. 1731 1st Ave. N. 205.202.4144; bjhm.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, PreColumbian 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 re-

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Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens The city’s only 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 am – 4 pm; Sunday, 1 – 4 pm (tickets sold until 3 pm) Admission. 331 Cotton Ave. SW. 205.780.5656; informationbirmingham.com/ arlington

AT T R A C T I O N S

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 come to the main library each year to access their extensive genealogical resources.

Open Monday – Tuesday, 9 am – 8 pm; Wednesday – Saturday, 9 am – 6 pm; Sunday, 2 – 6 pm. 2100 Park Place; 205.226.3600; bplonline.org Birmingham Race Course A spacious pari-mutuel racing 52 EXCURSIONS

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 am – 1 am. 1000 John Rogers Drive; 205.838.7500; birminghamracecourse.com Birmingham Zoo One of the state’s most popular attractions, the Birmingham Zoo is an ever-evolving adventure. Visitors come from around the Southeast to see shows such as the Rhino Encounter, the Giraffe Feedings, the Lorikeet Aviary, the Predator Zone and the Sea Lion Splash Show. The zoo is blazing new trails in elephant conservation with the opening of Trails of Africa. The initiative designates the Birmingham Zoo as a national leader in the care and conservation of threatened elephants. Trails of Africa is a mixed-species exhibit that includes a bull elephant herd, red river hogs,

giraffes, wildebeest, zebras and more. Concessions and dining on site. Open daily 9 am – 5 pm. Extended hours for special events. Admission. 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.

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 collection of railway cars, locomotives and cabooses. Train rides available—call for dates and times. Museum open Tuesday – Saturday, 9 am – 4 pm. 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 of the Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham. Bounded by 16th and 17th Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues North.

PHOTO: (LEFT) BRENT BOYD

markable 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 am – 5 pm; Sunday, noon – 5 pm. Donations welcome. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Boulevard; 205.254.2565; artsbma.org

SPOTLIGHT

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

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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.

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 events team to assist with every detail, McWane Science Center offers unique but functional event spaces perfect for your business luncheon, meeting, em-

ployee appreciation day, wedding reception or even an Overnight Adventure.

For 15 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.

205.714.8300 200 19th St. N. Birmingham, AL mcwane.org Saturday 10 am – 6 pm Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm Weekdays 9 am – 6 pm mcwane-science-center mcwane

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AT T R A C T I O N S

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 DaimlerBenz. This architectural showcase brings to life the company’s long-held vision of producing the most excellent automobiles in the world. Much more than a museum, the visi54 EXCURSIONS

tors center moves people along a multimedia path through the past, present and future of automotive technology. Visitors Center open Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Admission for factory tours (available by reservation only) 11 Mercedes Drive, Vance; 205.507.2252; mbusi.com 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 accommoda-

tions also are available within the park. Open every day, 7 am – 5 pm. Admission. 200 Terrace Drive, Pelahm; 205.620.2520; alapark.com/oakmountain 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. Team members dress in vintage uniforms, and people come from around the country to celebrate baseball history. The authenticity of Rickwood is being carefully

preserved by the Friends of Rickwood Field, a non-profit organization devoted to the restoration and upkeep of the historic ball field. Open Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm.

Check events schedule for expanded hours. 1137 2nd Ave. W. 205.458.8161; rickwood.com Sixteenth Street Baptist Church National Historic Landmark The Sixteenth Street Baptist Church is Birmingham’s most famous Civil Rights landmark.

On a September Sunday morning in 1963, four African-American 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,

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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 September – May, Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm; Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday, noon – 6 pm. June – August, Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday, noon – 6 pm. Admission. 200 19th St. N. 205.714.8300; mcwane.org

AT T R A C T I O N S 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.

The sanctuary of the church contains a massive stained glass window of Christ, given in memoriam from the people of Wales following the bombing. Tours by appointment.

Donations welcome. 1530 6th Ave. N. 205.251.9402; 16thstreetbaptist.org

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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 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 am – 4 pm; Sunday, noon – 4 pm. Donations welcome. 20 32nd St. N. 205.324.1911; slossfurnaces.com 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. Located off Exit

110 at I-459 & I-20.

205.481.4750; splashadventurewaterpark.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.

Ship models and full-size aircraft carriers also are in the collection. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.

Admission. 4343 73rd St. N. 205.833.8226; southernmuseumofflight.org 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.

From spring through fall, visitors find blacksmithing, milling and many other activities underway in the park. The third weekend of each month, 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 am – sunset.

Admission. 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla; 205.477.5711; tannehill.org

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.

Open Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday, 1 pm – 6 pm. Observation balcony open Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 10 pm; Sunday, 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission. 1701 Valley View Drive. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.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 EXCURSIONS 55

Performing Arts

No longer an industrial giant, Birmingham’s new “magic” is in the thriving arts community.

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 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 56 EXCURSIONS

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.

PHOTO: HINTERLAND PHOTOGRAPHY

by H E AT H E R A DA M S

Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center 1200 10th Avenue South; 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. Each season some of the world’s most renowned and talented artists grace the multiple stages of the Alys Stephens Center on the University of Alabama at Birmingham campus. Pictured here is the 1,330-seat Jemison Concert Hall, an acoustical marvel.

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Alabama Ballet

Alabama Symphony Orchestra

2726 1st Avenue South; 205.975.2787; alabamaballet.org

3621 6th Avenue South; 205.975.2787; alabamasymphony.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. This year’s performances include the Nutcracker, Swan Lake and Alice in Wonderland.

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.

Birmingham Festival Theatre

Opera Birmingham

1901 11th Avenue South; 205.933.2383; bftonline.org

3601 6th Avenue South; 205.322.6737; operabirmingham.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.

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.

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PHOTO: (TOP LEFT) BILLY BROWN (BOTTOM LEFT) DINA GRAPHICS, (BOTTOM RIGHT) JEFF TOMBRELLO

PERFORMING ARTS

SPOTLIGHT

LEADING THE WAY FOR ARTS IN BIRMINGHAM ASC is hub of UAB’s cultural corridor

T

he Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham has been entertaining audiences and transforming lives through the power of art for nearly 20 years. Season after season, UAB’s Alys Stephens Center presents stellar performances by some of the world’s

best-known artists, while also introducing Birmingham to up-and-coming performers on the cutting edge of their respective artistic genres. From singers and dancers to comedians and authors, from musicians and actors to aerialists and acrobats, the ASC presents a full complement of performing arts programming. The ASC also curates its own original programs, premiering them to a Birmingham audience as a gift to the community. That kind of outreach is at the heart of the ASC’s mission to make the arts available to everyone. ArtPlay, the ASC’s home for education and outreach, embodies that mission, offering arts classes and other educational opportunities to children and adults year-round. ArtPlay also operates programs that take the arts into underserved communities and

healthcare settings.

The ASC is the resident home of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and UAB’s Departments of Music and Theatre. It serves as the venerable anchor of a burgeoning cultural corridor at UAB, which also includes the brandnew Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts, which will house UAB’s Department of Art & Art History and state-of-the-art galleries for student and professional exhibitions. Operating under the auspices of UAB’s College of Arts & Sciences, this cultural corridor—led by the Alys Stephens Center—showcases UAB’s commitment to arts education, cultural programming and community enrichment.

UAB’s Alys Stephens Center is located at 1200 10th Avenue South. For tickets to ASC performances, call 205.975.2787 or visit AlysStephens.org.

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ArtPlay is located at 1006 19th Street South. For information on education and outreach programs, call 205.975.4769 or visit ArtPlayASC.org.

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Theatre Downtown

The Library Theatre

Terrific New Theatre

205.565.8838; theatredowntown.org

200 Municipal Drive, Hoover, Alabama 205.444.7888; thelibrarytheatre.com

2821 2nd Avenue South; 205.328.0868 terrificnewtheatre.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 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.

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. Performances at TNT are always Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 8 pm. Cash or checks only.

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.

This season’s offerings include The Graduate, Harold and Maude and many others.

Red Mountain Theatre Company

Verizon Wireless Music Center

301 19th Street South; 205.324.2424; redmountaintheatre.org

1000 Amphitheatre Road; 205.985.4900

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.

Business Office.

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.

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PHOTO: (TOP RIGHT) LINDA STELTER

PERFORMING ARTS

Virginia Samford Theatre 1116 26th Street South; 205.251.1206 virginiasamfordtheatre.org The Virginia Samford Theatre presents a wide variety of musicals ranging from The Sound of Music, to Scrooge The Musical to Hairspray. The charming historic theater with its parkside setting is located on Birmingham’s southside and has a lovely outdoor courtyard. Their seasons begin in August and run through July each year. Also, a great place for small meeting, the board room seats twenty-two people and catering can be provided by the theatre’s list of chefs. Check their website for current showtimes and ticket prices. ❖

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FROM UPSTATE NY TO DOWN SOUTH AL

Ocean Salad with fried feta

George Reis credits his parents as his biggest mentors where food is concerned. Born in upstate New York in the winegrowing region, he also spent time in the Midwest and in California, which he says gave him a taste of both agricultural and urban.

“My parents were huge foodies,” recalls Reis. “One of my most prized possessions is an autographed book from James Beard to my parents.

We cooked like crazy. When I was 12 years old—which was 30-something years ago—my parents had two woks, they had dried lotus flowers in the cupboard…stuff like that.

People might be more familiar with those things now, but back then, it was certainly not mainstream. When my dad was stationed in southern California as a Marine, I fell in love with Mexican food. I can remember eating chili rellenos before anyone knew what those were.”

His passion for food found solid footing at culinary school in upstate New York, and Reis went on to sharpen his skills in Atlanta for eight years, followed by cooking in Dallas for a spell and on the Gulf Coast.

Landing finally in Birmingham, he had the opportunity to check out a shuttered restaurant in the city’s historic heart—Little Five Points— around 2000. In 2002, he

From Pole to Plate Ocean is Birmingham’s best place for a bite of fresh fish

A

C H A N C E T O P U LL U P A C H A I R AT O C E A N in Birmingham is an opportunity to enjoy the South’s best seafood in one of its best settings. The domain of chef and proprietor, George Reis, Ocean is sea-to-plate, focusing on the bounty of the waters in a sustainable way—with a heaping side of Southern charm and cheese grits, of course.

Reis admits he’s only a small part of a booming restaurant scene in Birmingham.

“When I opened 11 years ago, there were about four or five really amazing places to eat in the city. Now there’s a plethora,” he says. If you ask around, however, you’ll quickly notice he’s a cornerstone in a movement to put this town on the map for fine dining and sustainable food.

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PHOTO: BIG SWEDE INC.

by JENNY ADAMS

PHOTO: BIG SWEDE INC.

Thai Spiced WokSeared Scallops

opened it as Ocean—focusing on regional, coastal cuisine prepared simply with elegant, elevated sides and a fantastic wine and cocktail list.

“It’s strange because there was really a niche that needed to be filled in this town in terms of a fine-dining seafood place,” Reis continues. “I think we went after that, but the demand is continually growing, and it’s certainly become more than what we expected.”

The design inside seats 100 comfortably, with a main bar that curves around the center, creating a bit of action and drama for guests.

“People gravitate to our bar,” explains Reis. “You can see the kitchen behind it and it’s a focal point.”

The menu keeps guests returning, with up to 15 varieties of raw oysters and seasonal plates like seared halibut with

a corn crème, fava beans and trumpet mushrooms. He’s has noticed a recent popularity in whole fish and is plating up several, keeping his regulars in mind with certain items that will never be taken off the menu. One of the biggest sellers and mainstays, for example, is his Gulf of Mexico-caught fresh grouper, complemented

by Vermont cheddar cheese grits and tasso ham.

SUPPLY & DEMAND

George Reis isn’t so obsessed with fish he can’t see the benefits of the farm. That thought was the impetus of the Ocean’s neighboring restaurant/bar, 26.

“We opened 26 based on demand,” he offers. “People aren’t coming to Ocean for lamb. They go there for fish.

I do a braised pork cheek that I love, and… well… I couldn’t do that at Ocean, because it

wouldn’t sell. In 26, we created a space and a menu that is a bit more eclectic. People often go there for a drink and then come to Ocean, or stop in here for a few raw oysters and then head to 26 for dinner. They play nicely off one another.”

When he’s got a day off work, you might expect to find George Reis at play with a fishing pole in his hand.

However, that’s not really the case. He does, however, love to check out his competition in the food scene around Birmingham. You might find him at Saw’s Soul Kitchen, recently-opened down in Avondale.

Or, you might find him musing over his next idea—a gastropub concept for downtown.

“There’s nothing final on that yet,” he laughs, “but I’m thinking about it, and I’d love to make it happen.”

Reservations Reservations are accepted at both restaurants; call ahead for availability.

Ocean

1218 20th Street South 205.933.0999 oceanbirmingham.com.

26

1210 20th Street South 205.918.0726 twentysix26.com

Scan code for mobile web page access.

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Love at First Bite ne of the best kept secrets about Birmingham is its dining. From casual dives to some of the country’s best fine dining, your culinary experience in the Magic City will be one to write home about—and keep you coming back!

Two of Mountain Brook’s hottest spots are Avo and Dram Whiskey Bar—under the same roof. Dram is a casual, yet sophisticated pub fantastic food and a wide selection of whiskeys. Pop upstairs to Avo for a white table cloth experience in an ultra modern environment.

For great pizza, Slice Stone Pizza & Brew is a great spot to grab a slice and a craft beer. For great burritos, tacos and burgers served until 2 a.m., head over to Fuego Cantina in Five Points South. Sit outside on the spacious patio and enjoy people-watching from the best spot in the area or head in to the Saloon for a drink and live music after dinner. While in the 5 Points area, try The J. Clyde for dinner and a beer in their Biergarten. The J. Clyde is the only place in Alabama that serves cask-conditioned ales with traditional British Beer Engines.

If upscale dining is up your alley, Village Tavern at The Summit is the place for you. A relaxed atmosphere paired with great steaks, fish, burgers and pizza makes for a great dining experience.

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For the meat-eaters out there, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in the Embassy Suites in Homewood is a must try. Voted “Best Steak” by the Birmingham News, Ruth’s Chris is the place to go for a mouth-watering meal. Just over the mountain in 5 Points South is another great locally-owned steakhouse, MetroPrime Steakhouse.

MetroPrime features hand-cut and dry-aged beef, and their burger is one of the best in town.

If fine dining is what you are looking for, head to Ocean in 5 Points South for some of the city’s best seafood. Or, head next door to 26 for a more casual meal and a mojito at one of Birmingham’s trendiest spots. Buffalo Wild Wings is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner and a great place to catch the game on HDTV. They have multiple locations. Little Savannah in Forest Park offers a menu that changes daily with the freshest locally-grown vegetables and meats available.

On the eastern side of town, stop into Parish Oyster & Seafood House for cajun-inspired food and a fun, casual atmosphere.

In Lakeview, Tin Roof is always rocking and offers freshly-made dishes in an open air environment that is designed for fun and frolick. For something more familiar, try Landry’s Seafood in Homewood.

No matter what you’re craving, there is something for all tastes!

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

O

Birmingham’s culinary hot-spots are sure to delight.

SPOTLIGHT

LITTLE SAVANNAH RESTAURANT & BAR

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elcome to Little Savannah Restaurant & Bar in Historic Forest Park. At this quaint neighborhood southern bistro, nightly remedies to life’s hustle are offered the southern way.

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

THE ATMOSPHERE This quaint, yet sophisticated restaurant offers a white tablecloth atmosphere with the ease and friendliness you’d expect to find at a family-owned and operated establishment. Clif and Maureen, chef and

co-owner, will greet you at the door or speak to you at your table to make sure your experience is as though you have come to their own home. The staff is always professional, friendly and courteous and delivers the finest service.

Outdoor dining is also an option for those nice temperate evenings.

SPECIALTY COCKTAILS AND WINE SELECTION Little Savannah prides

itself in providing masterful blends of the finest liquors and liqueurs available with the season’s freshest fruits, herbs and spices. Be sure to try one of Maureen’s own concoctions—Spicy Peach Margaritas. These consist of a proprietary blend of ingredients that you will only find at Little Savannah. Once you try it, you’ll want more, so take home a bottle of the special mix to enjoy with friends.

3811 Clairmont Avenue S.; 205.591.1119; littlesavannah.com Bar opens daily at 3:45 pm Supper Tuesday – Thursday 5:30 – 9:30 pm Supper Friday and Saturday 5:30 – 10 pm

THE MENU Every week Chef Clif finds the freshest ingredients, some from the local farmer’s markets, some he picks right from local farms. He selects fresh herbs and Tommy Toe tomatoes from their back-of-the-house garden that Maureen tends to. Since Chef Clif only serves the freshest ingredients, you will find the menu is always changing.

Fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico and beyond is almost always on the menu along with varied cuts and selections of farm-fresh beef, pork, veal and chicken. You’ll be impressed by Little Savannah’s support of local organizations, such as Jones Valley Urban Farm, dedicated to reclaiming vacant urban lots and converting them to productive use; Harvest Farm, known for their heirloom tomatoes; Mountain Song Farm, known for their pork and poultry; Hollow Springs Farm, known for their produce and herbs; and McEwen & Sons’ organic stone-ground corn products. “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 yourself.

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DINING

MetroPrime Steakhouse 1035 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205 205.623.5288; metroprimesteak.com

Landry’s Seafood Since 1947 139 State Farm Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35209 205.916.0777; landrysseafood.com

The expansive bar area offers a more casual dining experience and features handcrafted cocktails, eighteen specialty beers on tap and an extensive wine by the glass list.

HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday – Thursday 3 – 10 pm Friday 3 – ll pm; Saturday 5 – 11 pm Sunday 5 – 9 pm VIP Happy Hour: Monday – Friday 3 – 6 pm RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED COMPLIMENTARY VALET

Landry’s is a hit from the moment you walk through an inviting movie house-style entrance.

One look at the menu, and it’s clear Landry’s isn’t just the catch of the day. It’s a classic. The exceptional, fresh seafood gets star billing, any way customers want it—gulf snapper, flounder, redfish, rainbow trout, salmon, tuna and mahi-mahi—all with or without specialty toppings incorporating jumbo lump crab, shrimp, scallops and crawfish. And there’s more: Bountiful seafood platters. Gulf shrimp, oysters and shellfish prepared myriad ways. Seafood-spiked gumbos, salads and pastas, plus beef and fowl to appeal to every palate. Landry’s Famous Salad Bowl, which comes with every entrée, is tossed at the table.

And it’s served on ice-cold salad plates, a Gulf Coast tradition.

HOURS OF OPERATION: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm Friday – Saturday 11 am – 11 pm HAPPY HOUR: Monday – Friday 3 – 7 pm

A Few Items From Our Menu

A Few Items From Our Menu

Dry-Aged Steaks: Dry-aging is the oldest form of beef aging that adds remarkable depth of flavor and tenderness.

Shrimp and Crab Fondue

Australian Kobe New York Strip: The upper portion of the tender and flavorful short loin coming from purebred Japanese wagyu. Served with black truffle butter.

Cedar Planked Salmon: Scottish salmon oven-roasted on cedar over creamy seasonal risotto.

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Cedar Plank Salmon Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes Broiled Seafood Platter Steak and Lobster Landry’s Signature Bananas Foster

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Birmingham’s only local prime steakhouse, MetroPrime Steakhouse, is located at the heart of the city in Historic 5 Points South. The menu features a unique selection of prime, Wagyu, bone-in and dry-aged steak options. Every steak is hand-cut in house and seared under an 1,800-degree specialty broiler. The menu is rounded out by a house-ground prime burger, fresh seafood offerings and inventive steakhouse sides.

©2013 Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc. BWW2013-1670

it’s not whether you win or lose, it’s where you celebrate the game.

16 signature sauces & 5 seasonings | Big screens & HDtVs | awarD-winning wings Dine-in or takeout | tap Beers | wing tuesDays® | Boneless tHursDays® 840 Colonial Prommenade Pkwy | Alabaster, AL 205.664.0040 2505 Caufield Drive | Gardendale, AL 205.631.7646 2772 John Hawkins Pkway, Ste 100 | Birmingham, AL 205.983.9464

4507 Riverview Parkway #108 | Birmingham, AL 205.991.1955 5915 Trussville Crossing Pkwy., Suite 101 | Trussville, AL 205.655.2521 2710 McFarland Blvd. East | Tuscaloosa, AL 205.523.0273

buffalowildwings.com

Ocean 1218 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205 205.933.0999; oceanbirmingham.com

26 1210 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205 205.918.0726; twentysix26.com

Enjoy a signature martini at our beautiful, waterfall-accented bar, or feast on an array of oysters, shrimp, clams and lobster at the raw bar.

Ocean has a sibling… with the same city-feel but industrial-chic decor and the buzz of bistro dining. Slow-roasted, rustic flavors meet fast, fresh influences… Light and heavy play together with the extraordinary flavor combinations that George Reis does so well.

Ocean is one of Birmingham’s most recognized restaurants, winning multiple awards including Best Chef and Best Restaurant, not to mention a regular winner of the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator and Winner of the AAA Four Diamond award for 2007 – 2013.

Reservations are recommended.

26 features a big-city feel that makes it unlike any other restaurant in town. From the art deco inspired seating, to the LED-lit bar, there’s always something new to see at 26. The eclectic dishes on the menu rival those of the biggest names in food. Best of all, 26 keeps the kitchen open late, so you can go enjoy a show, and then still have time for a fantastic meal.

Reservations are accepted Tuesday through Saturday.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Tuesday – Saturday starting at 5:30 pm

HOURS OF OPERATION

Lunch 11 am – 2 pm, Bar Menu 2 – 5 pm Dinner Monday – Thursday 5 – 10 pm Dinner Friday – Saturday 5 – 11 pm

A Few Items From Our Menu

A Few Items From Our Menu

Oysters Rockefeller: Spinach, bacon, manchego cheese, pernod cream

Rolls: Spicy Hawaiian tuna, red pepper, sambal, cucumber, macadamia nuts, toasted coconut

Salt and Pepper Calamari: cumin remoulade and red pepper aioli

Starts: Blue crab sweet corn fritters, pickled red onions, baby arugula, buttermilk garlic dressing

Ocean Salad “Greek style”: fried feta, crispy greens, roma tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives

Salads: 26 Chop—romaine hearts, tomato, apple, bacon, red onion, cucumber, roasted corn, avocado, candied almonds, maytag bleu cheese dressing

Pure Fish: our freshest fish prepared four ways: wood grilled Greek style, steamed oriental style, pan seared or cornmeal crusted southern fried. Served with vegetables of the day, mashed potatoes of the day and Ocean salad.

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Mains: Grilled flat iron steak, roasted smashed red skin potatoes, caramalized onions, wild mushrooms, creole mustard horseradish cream

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Welcome to Ocean. Opened by George Reis in 2002, and located in the trendy 5 Points district of Birmingham’s Southside. Enjoy a casual night out with friends at the inviting and contemporary patio bar, or venture inside for some of the best seafood in town for an award-winning dining experience.

DINING

Slice Stone Pizza & Brew 725 29th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35233 205.715.9300; slicebirmingham.com

If you’re looking for a true experience to accompany a unique twist on pizza, then you’ll find a new home at Slice Stone Pizza & Brew. They keep their menu as fresh as the ingredients, so you’ll always have new things to try.

Started by brothers, Jeff, Jason, and Chris Bajalieh, Slice Pizza & Brew is as local as you can get, from the ingredients that go into every pizza to the beer on tap. Started as a place not just to eat, but to hang out. No matter who you are or where you’re from, you’ll love the flavorful food and atmosphere.

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Monday – Wednesday 11 am – 10 pm Thursday – Saturday 11 am – 12 am Sunday 11 am – 10 pm

The J. Clyde 1312 Cobb Lane, Birmingham, AL 35205 205.939.1312; jclyde.com

There’s no place like The J. Clyde. With Birmingham’s largest covered patio, you can eat outside rain or shine! On Historic Cobb Lane, the newly renovated front bar is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Birmingham. Originally, horse pens and later a 1920’s era garage, the building has a unique history. Add in a German-style biergarten and a Parisian street cafe and there’s a little space for everyone.

The J. Clyde offers more craft beer than any other place in Alabama and easily offers the most taps of fresh ales and lagers in Birmingham.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday 2 pm – midnight Tuesday – Saturday 2 pm – 2 am Closed Sundays

A Few Items From Our Menu A Few Of Our Specialty Pizzas

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Bajalieh Special: Bacon, grilled red onions and Wickles pepper rings

Southern-Style Caprese Stack: Alabama grown tomatoes layered with marinated black eyed peas, fresh mozzarella and basil, garnished with fried okra and pancetta

Old School: Molinari pepperoni, house Italian sausage, fresh mushrooms and grilled red onions

Chicken Fingers: Hand-breaded chicken tenders with ranch, honey mustard or bleu cheese dressing and your choice of sweet potato fries, steak fries or pasta salad

White Shadow: Garlic, caramelized onions, portabella mushrooms, feta, fresh parmesan, finished with truffle oil

The J. Clyde Burger: 8 oz. classic American burger, topped with a fried green tomato

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Village Tavern

Fuego Cantina & Saloon

101 Summit Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35243 205.970.1640; villagetavern.com

1101 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205 205.933.1544; fuegobirmingham.com

A TWIST TO A MEXICAN CANTINA

Village Tavern celebrates classic American food featuring hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, pasta dishes and salads in a made-from-scratch kitchen. We offer over 60 selections by the glass from our award-winning wine list. Join us Monday through Friday from 4:30 to 6:30 for half-off happy hour in the bar and all day Wednesdays for half-off all wines by the glass. Don’t forget live music in the bar Wednesday and Thursday nights from 6 to 9.

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Monday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm Fridays – Saturdays 11 am – 11 pm Sundays 10 am – 10 pm

Your one-stop for delicious food and great entertainment, both served up late until 2 am. Mondays are Penny Beer Night starting at 9 pm, $2 Taco Tuesdays, Wing It Wednesdays with 1/2 price wings, Thirsty Thursdays with $1 Dos Equis and Well Hell Weekends start on Fridays with $4 well drinks in the Saloon. Join us for happy hour with $3 Fuegoritas and Fuegojitos and $2 draught beer. We have 14 beers on tap and HDTVs inside and out. All of this, Karaoke on Tuesday nights, Trivia on Thursdays and live music played Fridays and Saturdays.

LOCO HAPPY HOUR:

Monday – Friday 4 – 7 pm; Live Music: Friday & Saturday 8 pm – 2 am; Karaoke: Tuesday 8 pm – 2 am; Trivia: Thursday 8 – 11 pm HOURS OF OPERATION:

Monday – Saturday 11 am – 2 am Serving food until 2 am!

Sunday 11 am – 10 pm

A Few Items From Our Menu Fuego’s Famous Steak Tacos: Crispy fried jalapenos, pico de gallo, cilantro-lime aioli

Southern Shrimp and Grits: Jumbo sautéed shrimp with diced bacon, mushrooms, and green onions over Anson Mills organic stone ground grits.

Maple Cured Pork Chops: Served with homemade apple chutney, garlic mashed potatoes and fresh green beans.

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Taco Salad: Chopped romaine lettuce, jalapeno ranch dressing, sharp cheddar cheese, fire roasted corn, black beans, fresh pico de gallo, guacamole-crema; served in a crispy taco bowl Angus Burger: Served with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, jalapenos, chipotle mayo Add: sharp cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, white American and crispy bacon

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A Few Items From Our Menu

DINING

Ruth’s Chris Steak House Tin Roof

2300 Woodcrest Place, Birmingham, AL 35209 205.879.9995; ruthschris.com

2709 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 205.323.4356; tinroofbars.com/home/birmingham

Tin Roof, affectionately known as “The Roof” to our regulars, is located in the Lakeview District. Offering daily Happy Hour specials and live music, our customers love our laid-back feel and live entertainment – not to mention our made-from-scratch food served up by a friendly and eclectic staff. So come on in and hang out at a Live Music Joint where there’s no bitchin’ or whinin’ – just a laid-back atmosphere where you can kick back and have a good time. Bring us your stuff – we’ll hang it up!

And remember…Relax! You’re at the Roof!

Where everybody is somebody!

Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Birmingham is situated in the lobby of the Embassy Suites hotel conveniently located just off the Red Mountain Expressway between the Homewood and Mountain Brook neighborhoods. Deep, rich reds with accents of teal and copper predominate the steakhouse dining room while the dense foliage of the open atrium hotel envelops the restaurant in an air of casual elegance. Private dining rooms offer a variety of event options for 10 to 300 guests. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, an important business luncheon, a social event or an all-day meeting, Ruth’s Chris Birmingham can accommodate your needs.

Voted “Best Steaks” by readers of The Birmingham News and Best Steak House by Fox 6 “Best Of”

HOURS OF OPERATION

Open Sunday – Saturday 11 am until very late! Serving great food until 10 pm daily.

A Few Items From Our Menu Maria’s Famous Salsa and Chips Made Fresh Everyday Award-Winning Cheese Dip Chicken Tender Basket (Regular or Buffalo Style) Build Your Own Nachos Build Your Own Burgers Southwest Fajita Quesadillas

PHOTO:

The Tin Roof Sandwich: Grilled Chicken, peanut butter and honey Pizzadillas

LUNCH Monday – Sunday 11 am – 3 pm DINNER Monday – Sunday 3 – 10 pm

A Few Items From Our Menu Sizzlin’ Blue Crab Cakes: Two jumbo lump crab cakes with sizzling lemon butter.

New York Strip: This USDA Prime cut has a full-bodied texture that is slightly firmer than a ribeye.

Creamed Spinach: A Ruth’s favorite, chopped spinach in a New Orleans style cream sauce.

Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad: A Ruth’s Chris original.

Tossed with lemon basil dressing and topped with crispy onions

EXCURSIONS 71

DINING

Dreamland Bar-B-Que

1911 Gadsden Hwy Birmingham, AL 35235 205.655.4117; parishoysterhouse.com

1427 14th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35205 205.933.2133; dreamlandbbq.com

The Parish Seafood and Oyster House is a genuine neighborhood restaurant and bar, where everyone gathers to enjoy good company and great food!

Parish embraces a seasonal, local and market-fresh menu that represents a rustic no-nonsense approach to good eating—drawing from the influences of our Southern heritage—a blend of French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Greek, Native American and African.

Their food is directly attributed to the food and flair of the New Orleans Parish, specializing in a variety of fresh seafoods, quality meats, gumbos and Po’ boys—priced reasonably and of only the highest quality!

Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm Friday & Saturday 11 am – 11 pm

From Our Menu Flame Roasted Oysters: Bathed in French butter, roasted garlic, fresh parsley and Parmesan Reggiano Parish Medley: Red beans & rice, Jambalaya and Étouffée Trout Almandine: Pan-roasted trout, almonds, lemon butter & asparagus

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Dreamland’s ribs are hickory-grilled over direct heat and served with their southern-style, vinegar-based sauce that has just a little bit of back heat!

For over half a century, customers have been coming back for that legendary cooking and the familiar warmth and hospitality of Dreamland Bar-B-Que. With eight family-friendly restaurants in Alabama and Georgia, Dreamland is still serving up mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork and popular sides. They cater for corporate functions and special events and ship their signature ribs and sauce across the country.

“Ain’t nothing like ‘em nowhere!”

Hours: Monday – Thursday 10 am – 10 pm Friday & Saturday 10 am – 11 pm Sunday 11 am – 9 pm

From Our Menu Fresh From the Pit (served with white bread and our world famous sauce) Ribs by the Slab and Half Slab Half Chicken The “Big Daddy” 1/2 lb. Pork or Chicken Sandwich Brunswick Stew Banana Pudding

Food trucks and carts are bringing upscale eating curbside throughout the city.

A

t lunchtime, most people visit their favorite restaurant for a quick meal, but some Birmingham patrons first have to figure out where their favorite restaurant is today. The recent popularity of mobile food trucks that serve gourmet lunch fares has swept into Birmingham and quickly gained popularity among area residents.

Trucks and carts have gained popularity across the nation for their low-cost, lowoverhead appeal and high-quality food.

With catchy names like Shindigs Catering, Cantina on Wheels, Fresh Off the Bun and Spoonfed Grill, the bright colors and eye-catching designs quickly draw hungry patrons in to sample their fares.

Locals who have jumped on board with the trucks follow their favorites on Facebook and Twitter to see when they’ll be close to them and what they’ll be serving that day.

In early 2013, the mobile food vendors banded together to form the Greater Birmingham Street Foods Coalition in order to ensure they had a unified voice if any laws were passed that might endanger their service and to maintain positive relationships with city officials and other business owners in the city.

Paget Pizitz, co-owner of MELT and vice president of the coalition, said that a few years ago there was one food truck in the city, now there are 14 or 15 trucks, trailers and carts in the area.

“It’s just really phenomenal how everyone is working together,” she said.

“The community is very unified right now.”

Pizitz said she has experienced the

PHOTO:

Parish Seafood & Oyster House

THERE MAY BE A FOOD TRUCK NEARBY, TOO

DINING

been some minor hiccups, but mostly she said there have been few issues between the groups.

“Birmingham is a food city,” Pizitz said.

“I think whether you own a chain, a brick and mortar or a food truck, people work together and the community supports what we’re doing.”

The coalition also hosts events and rallies around the city, which have been heav-

ily attended by Birmingham foodies eager for the new experience.

The cooperative spirit of the local food industry is good news, because if the buzz generated by the food trucks’ following is any indication, they are here to stay.

For more information on the coalition and a full list of food trucks and carts, visit bhmstreetfoodcoalition.com or their Facebook page. ❖

PHOTOS: DAVID R. DONALDSON

food truck scene all over the county and believes Birmingham may have one of the most unified communities when it comes to mobile food service. While some areas have seen struggles between traditional restaurants and mobile food service, several Birmingham restaurants, like Cantina Tortilla Grill and Slice Stone Pizza & Brew, have joined in the game and have trucks of their own. There have

EXCURSIONS 73

St. Paul Broken and the

Bones

PHOTO:

A band you should be listening to right now

74 EXCURSIONS

The band's name is an inside joke with the bandmates because lead singer, Paul William Janeway, doesn't drink or party, earning him the nickname "Saint." photograph by Saybre Photography

by Jenny Adams Paul William Janeway is the lead singer of Alabama’s latest musical accomplishment, a fantastic soul/gospel, general-good-time band called St. Paul and the Broken Bones.

We sat down with Janeway to discuss the band’s first album (set to drop in early 2014), getting his first suit made and the fact that he’s named for one of the state’s most notorious men. After reading, we suggest you hop on their Facebook page and book tickets to a show. These guys might be the newest thing to come out of Alabama’s music scene, but their sound is infectious enough to be around for the long haul.

When and how did you guys first meet?

PJ: Jesse Phillips (who plays bass) and I have been friends for going on six or seven years now. We were in a band previously called The Secret Dangers. It was a really fun group. The first band I’d ever been in, actually. Everyone in our band ended up in Birmingham for one reason or another, and we eventually got together last year. We played our first show at Avondale Brewery.

Describe your sound for our readers who might not have heard you yet (but who are clearly running out after this to get your album).

PJ: Definitely soulful. I think beyond that, we don’t feel like we are a throwback retro band. Yet, we definitely pay homage to the greats like Otis Redding. I’d say we are kind of doing our thing and have that in the background.

Where does the name come from? Is it a nod to your gospel sound or is there a backstory?

PJ: (Laughs) I don’t drink, actually, or do anything along the lines of partying. And the other band members like to rib me a bit for being a goodie two shoes. So, it’s St. Paul and then ‘the broken bones,’…like a fragmented group of fellows that came together, kind of.

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You guys do one hell of a rendition of Otis Redding’s “I’ve Been Loving You.” He’s obviously got an influence on your sound. Who else would you say you really find inspiration from in terms of other musicians and bands?

PJ: There’s a few gospel groups. Mighty Clouds of Joy is one. As far as more modern bands I try to listen to, it’s Prince, D’Angelo and Tom Waits.

We tend to close shows with a cover of Tom Waits’ “Make It Rain.”

EXCURSIONS 75

PJ: We recorded at Nutthouse Recording Studio in Muscle Shoals and mixed at Fame. The only word to describe it is ‘surreal.’ It was really awesome. When we recorded we decided to be as old school as we could. We did it on tape, and we did it live. It’s rough around the edges, but that’s what we wanted. To be in fame and seeing pictures of Otis Redding playing guitar and Aretha Franklin singing…you definitely feel like you don’t belong there.

They haven’t changed the carpet since the ‘70s. Feels like a time capsule when you go in there.

Your visual appearance on stage is clearly important. Do you guys go shop for suits together or what?

PJ: What is hilarious is that I wore my dad’s suit for the longest time, and he didn’t know it until he came to a show and was like ‘What in the hell?’

When the band started, I didn’t even own a suit. My dad had a funeral suit, and it was a bit big on me, but I’d wear it.

One of the coolest things that’s happened to me is we went up to NYC to play.

76 EXCURSIONS

I went to Billy Reid down in Florence, Alabama to get measured to have a suit made.

I really didn’t know how I was planning to pay for it.

So I go to the Billy Reid store in New York to pick it up, and I find out my friends and family had pitched in to pay for it. I wore it my first time playing in New York at The Mercury Lounge. We sold out the show. My dad was there, and it was special night.”

erner sometimes because people may give you that look and treat you a certain way.

I’m a democrat and a liberal. I love indie music. I don’t identify with our super-conservative set, but I love football and sweet tea and the taste of the South. I’ve had a hard time identifying that aspect until recently. It's something I tried to run away from, but then you realize it’s in you. I love it now, and I’m proud of it.

You guys had the chance to open for John Mayer once. What was it like?

When you guys get back to Birmingham from a tour, what’s the first place you go for food?

PJ: It was fun. He’s really nice and is very complimentary on stage. I don’t actually know a lot of his music. But when you meet nice people you can pull for them. So I certainly do. They make those stages where they are so comfortable, it was like playing another show … until they put the lights out and then there’s 7,000 people. When we ask for crowd participation, you kinda go ‘whoa.’ It was a cool experience.

You’re named for Paul 'Bear' Bryant. Clearly, there’s some Alabama love from way back going on. Can you talk about your home state and what you love most about it?

PJ: It’s interesting. I’m definitely deepseated here being named after him.

It’s hard to identify yourself as a South-

PJ: Niki’s West. I’m a big BBQ guy.

There’s Saw’s—it’s amazing. There’s one in Avondale and one in Homewood. That’s good stuff.

When you aren’t recording music, where do you hang out in town and what do you love to do?

PJ: Second Avenue North is a popular place to hang now. We hang out at Good People Brewery and Avondale brewing a lot. And the place we all cut our teeth as a band…which is Bottletree. ❖ SCAN HERE to listen to St. Paul and The Broken Bones perform tracks including Sugar Dyed Honey Pants and That Glow.

PHOTO: ALEX HOOKS

You recently mixed what will be your first album at Fame Studios? It’s historic and is a place that’s turned out hits like 'Mustang Sally.' What was it like working there?

Performing live at Avondale Brewing Company in the historic Avondale neighborhood.

PHOTO:

photograph by Alex Hooks

EXCURSIONS 77

Birmingham Nightlife From cocktails and cigars to live music and beer, find your perfect spot

V

isitors may not realize just how much there is to do in our Magic City once the dinner plates are cleared and the bands begin their soundchecks.

If nightclubs are your scene, there are a few to choose from. The Lakeview Entertainment District offers New Orleans-like atmosphere with several clubs within walking distance to each other. Be sure to check Lou’s Pub and Package Store, a long-standing Birmingham landmark establishment. The Historic 5 Points District is home to The J. Clyde, which offers hundreds of beer options and Fuego Cantina & Saloon, which boasts the city’s best patio and happy hour.

If you are a cocktail connoisseur, stop by Little Savannah Restaurant and Bar on Clairmont Avenue for a post-dinner drink from their classic and contemporary cocktail menu or join the locals at the bar at Highland’s in 5 Points South for original drinks like the beloved Orange Thing or a glass of pastis. Both Sol y Luna’s margaritas and The Wine Loft’s extensive by-the-glass lists are very popular on weekends and weekdays, and if you love martini’s, The

78 EXCURSIONS

Blue Monkey on Cobb Lane in 5 Point’s South has over 150 kinds of liquor and a wickedly long martini list.

Birmingham’s most applauded nightlife in annual “best of ” publications often goes to the city’s diverse dive bars, from The Garage Café—whose antique-filled low-lit courtyard and dozens of beers by the bottle have graced Esquire’s pages, to Rojo—lauded for allowing pups on the patio. Visit Black Market Bar + Grill for a low key atmosphere and live jam bands or Bottletree Café—which features a largely vegan/vegetarian menu and live indie tunes. Birmingham’s darkest dive bar, The Nick, was once called “the CBGB of the South”

by Rolling Stone magazine and Metro Bistro downtown are both extremely popular spots for shooting darts and catching a variety of local and regional acts.

Hoover offers The Back Nine Bar, which also showcases live bands, and Pub 261, where you can shoot pool and eat raw oysters while listening to live music. Both serve up delicious food, too.

These are just a few of Birmingham’s after-dark options. Most venues serve until 2 am.

PHOTO: ALEX HOOKS

by JE NN Y ADAMS

NIGHTLIFE

SOUTHSIDE AND DOWNTOWN 3000 BAR

1100 20th St. S. 205.933.3222 ABOVE

The Historic Redmont Hotel 2101 5th Ave. N. 205.324.2101 AQUA LOUNGE & NIGHTCLUB

2824 5th Ave. S. 205.396.7238

AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY

201 41st Street S. 205.777.5456; avondalebrewing.com

BACCHUS DANCE CLUB

1928 11th Ave. S. 205.731.2582; bccchusbham.com BLUE MONKEY LOUNGE

1318 Cobb Lane S. 205.933.9222; bluemonkeylounge.com BOTTLETREE CAFE

3719 3rd Ave. S. 205.533.6288; thebottletree.com C & G’S OUR PLACE

2115 7th Ave. S. 205.715.0077

CANTINA TORTILLA GRILL

2901 2nd Ave. S., Ste. 110 205.323.6980; cantinatortillagrill.com

114 14th Street S. 205.286.2337 goodpeoplebrewing.com INNISFREE IRISH PUB

710 29th St. S. 205.252.4252; innisfreeirishpub.com

KELLEY’S NEIGHBORHOOD SPORTS GRILL

720 29th St. S. 205.323.9786

LOU’S PUB & PACKAGE STORE

726 29th St. S. 205.322.7005; louspub.com MATTHEW’S BAR & GRILL

2208 Morris Ave. 205.862.6261; matthewsbarandgrill.com NANA FUNKS

708 29th St. S. 205.250.8003; nana-funks.com OASIS

2807 7th Ave. S. 205.323.5538; oasisbar.com

2312 2nd Ave. N. 205.202.4151; roguetavern.com

ON TAP SPORTS CAFE

2300 1st Ave. N. 205.324.0666; steelurbanlounge.com

3501 1st Ave. N. 205.326.8902; oldcarheaven.com

737 29th St. S. 205.320.1225; ontapsportscafe.com

CHASER’S SPORTS BAR

2801 Second Ave. S. 205.320.7006; onasmusicroom.com

815 24th Street N. 205.324.2425 CLUB SOUTH

1102 10th St. S. 205.251.0512 COURTYARD OYSTER BAR & GRILL SOUTHSIDE

2015 Highland Ave. S. 205.558.4995 DAVE’S PUB

1128 20th St. S. 205.933.4030; davespubsouthside.com FORMAGGIO’S ITALIAN BISTRO

1713 10th Ave. S. 205.933.7555

ROGUE TAVERN

OLD CAR HEAVEN

CARRIGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE

2430 Morris Ave. 205.440.2430; facebook.com/carriganspub

ONA’S MUSIC ROOM

PALE EDDIE’S POUR HOUSE

2308 2nd Ave. N. 205.297.0052; paleeddiespourhouse.com PARKSIDE CAFE

4036 5th Ave S. 205.595.0920

RAGS LORINO’S ITALIAN BISTRO

728 29th St. S. 205.327.7247; ragsitalianbistro.net

STEEL URBAN LOUNGE

STILLWATER PUB

2109 7th Ave. S. 205.202.5625; stillwaterpub.com THE BREAK RESTAURANT & BILLIARDS

1001 20th St. S. 205.252.3779 THE H MARTINI BAR

1023 20th St. S. 205.933.9555 THE J. CLYDE

1312 Cobb Lane 205.939.1312; jclyde.com

THE METRO BAR

2125 2nd Ave. N. 205.323.7995; magiccitymetro.com THE NICK

2514 10th Ave. S. 205.252.3831, thenickrocks.com THE RED ZONE

1108 20th St. S. THE QUEST

416 24th St. S., 205.251.4313, quest-club.com THE RARE MARTINI

2839 7th Ave. S., 205.323.0008, theraremartini.com THE WINE LOFT

2200 1st Ave. N., 205.323.8228; wineloftbirmingham.com TIN ROOF

FUEGO CANTINA AND SALOON

2709 7th Ave. S., 205.323.4356; tinroofbars.com/home/ birmingham

GABLE SQUARE SALOON & GAMES

500 23rd St. S., 205.380.4082; workplay.com

GARAGE CAFE & ANTIQUES

2001 15th Ave. S., 205.933.1032; zydecobirmingham.com

1101 20th St. S. 205.933.1544; fuegobirmingham.com PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

GOOD PEOPLE BREWING COMPANY

803 9th Court S. 205.251.0960

2304 10th Terrace S. 205.322.3220; garagecafe.us

WORKPLAY

ZYDECO

EXCURSIONS 79

NEIGHBORHOOD SPORTS GRILLE

1423 Gadsden Hwy 205.655.1018; neighborhoodsportsgrille.com PARISH SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE

1911 Gadsden Highway 205.655.4117: parishoysterhouse.com

CENTERPOINT, EASTWOOD, IRONDALE

OAK HILL BAR & GRILL

2835 18th St. S. 205.870.8277

ON TAP SPORTS CAFE INVERNESS

810 Inverness Corners 205.437.1999; ontapsportscafe.com OTEY’S TAVERN

224 Country Club Park 205.871.8435; oteystavern.com SATTERFIELD’S RESTAURANT

SAW’S JUKE JOINT

1115 Dunston Ave. 205.745.3920

BOURBON ST. BAR & LOUNGE

730 Valley Ave. 205.944.0007

CRESTWOOD TAVERN & GRILL

430 Green Springs Hwy 205.941.3343

1568 Cooper Hill Rd. 205.957.1006

5500 Crestwood Blvd.

205.510.0053; crestwoodtavern.com

WALKER’S RESTAURANT/THE EMERGENCY ROOM LOUNGE

2100 Pinson Valley Parkway 205.849.0704

HOMEWOOD, MOUNTAIN BROOK, INVERNESS BILLY’S BAR & GRILL

2012 Cahaba Road 205.879.2238, billyssportsgrill.com BLACK MARKET BAR

3411 Colonnade Parkway 205.967.8787; evilbartenders.com COURTYARD 280 OYSTER BAR & GRILL

4643 Highway 280 205.980.9891

DRAM WHISKEY BAR

2721 Cahaba Road 205.871.8055; dramwhiskeybar.com

FOX & HOUND PUB & GRILL

3425 Colonnade Parkway 205.968.3823

HOGAN’S IRISH PUB & GRILL

507 Cahaba Park Circle 205.995.0533; hogansirishpubandgrill.com JACKSON’S BAR & BISTRO

1831 28th Ave. S. 205.870.9669;

MAFIAOZA’S PIZZERIA AND NEIGHBORHOOD PUB

2 Dexter Avenue, 205.414.7878; mafiaozas.com

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1928 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205 bacchusbham.com and Facebook.com/bacchusbham

3161 Cahaba Heights Road 205.969.9690; satterfieldsrestaurant.com

AIRPORT INN TAVERN

7502 5th Ave. N. 205.836.9110

Bacchus Dance Club

STARZ KARAOKE LOUNGE

STIR CRAZY

SUPERIOR GRILL

4701 Highway 280 S. 205.991.5112 THE UPPER DECK SPORTS BAR & GRILL

449 Valley Ave. 205.942.3289

HOOVER, VESTAVIA BLACKWELL’S NEIGHBORHOOD PUB

3151 Green Valley Road 205.967.3798; blackwellspub.com COMEDY CLUB STARDOME

1818 Data Drive, Hoover 205.444.0008; stardome.com IRON HORSE CAFÉ

1694 Montgomery Highway 205.978.5599; ironhorsecafe.net MARTINI’S FINE FOOD & CLUB ULTRA

2132 Lorna Ridge Lane 205.823.7300

MOONLIGHT ON THE MOUNTAIN

585 Shades Crest Road 205.578.2444 moonlightonthemtn.com ON TAP SPORTS CAFE

3440 Galleria Circle 205.988.3203; ontapsportscafe.com PUB 261

9340 Helena Road 205.444.026; pub261bar.com WINE’D DOWN

180 Main Street 205.988.9463; wineddown.com ❖

BIRMINGHAM’S HOTTEST NIGHT CLUB! A touch of Vegas in Birmingham! Bacchus, the Roman God of Wine, joins Birmingham’s oldest friend Vulcan, God of the Forge, by opening the most exciting dance club and pub in the state of Alabama. Taking center stage in the heart of Historic Five Points South, is Bacchus Dance Club.

Bacchus Dance Club opens Friday and Saturday nights with latest in light show and sound technology, the DJ spinning the latest hits and getting the dance floor bouncing. Be sure to try one of our Specialty Shots and our signature frozen Vegas Bomb!. Come party with Birmingham’s hottest bartenders and dance the night away. This is the place to see and be seen!

CLUB HOURS: Friday and Saturday nights 9pm until 5am Scan QR code to access Bacchus Dance Club’s EXCURSIONS mobile web page.

Photos by Nik Layman Photography

PHOTO:

TRUSSVILLE

NIGHTLIFE

Black Market Bar + Grill

Iron City Grill

2011 Highland Avenue, Birmingham; 205.933.8035 3411 Colonnade Pkwy #800, Birmingham; 205.967.8787 evilbartenders.com

513 22nd Street South, Birmingham, AL 35233 205.202.5483; ironcitybham.com

Great food. Cold beer. And evil bartenders. Owned by Elise Youngblood and George Cowgill, the Black Market Bar + Grill opened its first location in 2009 and since then has built an amazing reputation, and following, for being a perfect spot to dine, socialize and relax. Our brunch on Sundays is both classic and original—a weekend tradition in the Magic City. Our burgers are the best in town (ask around!) and our atmosphere of comic book covers, pinup girls and b-movie posters will amaze and awe any and everyone looking for great food and a good time.

Two locations: 5 Points South and Shops of Colonnade HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday – Thursday 3 pm – 2 am Friday – Sunday 11 am – 2 am SUNDAY BRUNCH!

HOURS OF OPERATION Monday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm Friday 11 am – 10 pm Saturday 5 – 10 pm Live Happy Hour Music Wednesday – Friday from 5 – 8 pm

A Few Items From Our Menu

A Few Items From Our Menu

Greek Egg Rolls: Chicken, spinach and feta...keeping our kitchen busy for good reason.

Burger or Chicken Sandwich: 100% ground chuck, handmade burger patty or grilled chicken breast, served on a kaiser roll with lettuce, tomato, pickle and red onion

Trashcan Burger: THE CULT CLASSIC! Any toppings we decide, whether they are on the menu or not! RULE: you may omit one item!

Fried Fish Tacos: black market fresh fish w/spanish slaw, beans, rice and sour cream! For surfers & schemers, witches and dreamers.

PHOTO:

Iron City Birmingham is a full-service grill, bar and entertainment venue in the heart of downtown Birmingham.

Our beautiful event center has a 1,300 person capacity and is perfect for any event, large or small, including weddings, luncheons and receptions. Iron City is located in a historic building that has been completely renovated, has two vintage bars and a full-service rustic grill that is a must see for visitors and locals alike!

Brunch: Southern Indie-Rock Plate: Our tip of the hat to Southern touring bands and their 24-hour diner visits on late nite highways. Biscuits, scrambled eggs and gravy...pick a side of sausage or bacon and sing a tune by the Old 97’s.

Chicken and Beef Kebob: Mixed kebob, grilled and topped with mushrooms and a red wine reduction Jambalaya: Rice simmered with chicken, shrimp and Andouille sausage in Cajun tomato broth White Marble Pork Chop: Bone-in pork chop, pan seared and topped with a bacon and wild mushroom ragout served on a bed of parmesan cheese grits

EXCURSIONS 81

Southern Draws Alabama’s prestigious golf courses and state parks offer a variety of fun—and challenges—for all.

by STE PHE N MCGHE E

82 EXCURSIONS

S

Limestone Springs No. 12 photograph by Michael Clemmer—Golf Landscapes

ituated in the diverse terrain at the edge of the Appalachian foothills, Birmingham is home to more than its share of great public golf courses. Whether you’re seeking a picturesque setting in the mountains, working your way along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail or just looking for an oldstyle municipal course to take a few swings on, Birmingham has the course for you.

One of the area’s best is Limestone Springs, located just 25 miles northeast of the city. Golfweek magazine’s choice for Alabama’s Top Public Golf Course, Limestone Springs also provides one of the most beautiful settings for golf you’ll find anywhere. The Jerry Pate design takes full advantage of the area’s natural beauty and, like most great golf courses, is both challenging and playable for the average golfer.

Closer to town—in fact, right in the heart of the city—is Highland Park Golf Course. Believed to be Alabama’s oldest course (the original track dates back to 1904), Highland was completely redesigned

by Bob Cupp in 1998, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. The new layout, though short by modern standards, is immaculately conditioned and makes for a fun and sometimes diabolical (see the par-four seventh hole) test of golf. With dramatic elevation changes and beautiful views of the Birmingham skyline, Highland Park provides a unique and memorable setting for downtown golfing.

No discussion of Alabama golf courses would be complete without mention of the renowned Robert Trent Jones Trail. The RTJ at Oxmoor Valley, just south of the city, offers two spectacular full-length courses (Ridge and Valley) and the challenging par-three short course. This trio features rolling fairways, severe elevation changes and a stunningly beautiful backdrop for golf. The unique Short Course enjoys a national reputation and has been named by Golf Digest as one of the country’s “Great Value” courses.

Nearby Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort and Spa is home to yet another RTJ layout. The Ross Bridge course plays to an astounding 8,184 yards from the back tees, making it one of the longest golf courses in the world. Ross Bridge also features no fewer than 10 lakeside holes and an 80-foot waterfall. Designed for tournament golf, as well as recreational play, Ross Bridge is currently the home of the PGA Champions Tour’s Regions Charity Classic.

Located some 30 minutes south of Birmingham, Timberline is an outstanding Jerry Pate design.

This par-71 starts out as a lakeside course, then gently winds upward into wooded, rolling terrain.

An old railroad line (now used only as a tourist attraction) cuts through the property and is a perfect complement to the beauty of the golf course. Timberline was recently named as one of the state’s Top Ten Public Courses by Golfweek.

Also south of Birmingham are Ballantrae and the course at Oak Mountain State Park. Ballantrae, EXCURSIONS 83

GOLF & OUTDOORS

Oxmoor Valley – Valley Course No. 16

84 EXCURSIONS

Ballantrae Golf Club 1300 Ballantrae Club Drive, Pelham, AL 35124 205.620.4653; ballantraegolf.com Because not everybody can travel to Scotland to play golf, now there is Ballantrae.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 7,310 Rating/Slope: 74.5/130 Practice Range: Yes Bent Brook Golf Course 7900 Dickey Springs Road, Bessemer, AL 35022 205.424.2368; bentbrook.com Once a dairy farm, this beautiful course is located approximately 15-20 miles from downtown Birmingham.

No. of holes: 27, Par: 36-36-35 Yardage: 6,000-7,000 Rating/Slope: 69.6/117, 70.2/121, 69.2/116 Practice range: Yes All major credit cards accepted.

Cedar Creek Golf Course 900 Cedar Creek Drive , Bessemer, AL 35023 205.424.8450 An 18-hole course with large Bermuda greens located only 20 minutes from Birmingham.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 6,004 Rating/Slope: 67.9/114 Practice range: Yes

Tee times required for weekends only. Visa and MasterCard are welcome.

Eagle Point Golf Club 4500 Eagle Point Drive, Birmingham, AL 35242 205.991.9070; eaglepointgolfclub.com This course, created by architect Earl Stone, is located 15 miles from downtown Birmingham.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 71 Yardage: 6,493 Rating/Slope: 70.1/119 Practice range: Yes Tee times can be made five days in advance.

FarmLinks Golf Club 2200 FarmLinks Blvd., Sylacauga, AL 35150 205.403.4653; farmlinks.org FarmLinks is the world’s first research and demonstration course. The Hurdzan-Fry design offers a diverse layout with dramatic elevation changes and striking views of the mountains and lakes on Pursell Farms.

Golfweek named FarmLinks in the top five public-access courses in Alabama.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 7,444 Rating/Slope: 73/134 Practice range: Yes Tee times may be made up to

PHOTO: MICHAEL CLEMMER—GOLF LANDSCAPES

which bills its experience as “fun, fast and friendly,” opened in 2005 and was selected as that year’s “Best New Affordable Public Golf Course” by Golf Digest. Ballantrae has also earned a reputation as a terrific place to record a career round. Only a few miles away, Oak Mountain’s beautiful setting and relatively flat terrain create a nearperfect course for walking golfers. The layout is also a classic shotmaker’s course that provides a fun and fair test of the game in a relaxed environment.

A truly unique golfing experience waits only an hour southeast of Birmingham. Opened in 2003, Farmlinks was conceived as the world’s first demonstration and research golf course, and the Hurdman-Fry design covers an incredible 350 acres. Playing at 7,400 yards (7,000 yards from the second set of tees), Farmlinks’ intimidating length is offset by its generous fairways, some of which are easily twice the width of a typical layout. A pristine setting and nearly unparalleled course conditions make Farmlinks well worth the drive.

Southwest of the city, in nearby Bessemer, is Bent Brook Golf Club. The first of the city’s premier public golf courses, Bent Brook was opened in 1988 and has hosted events such as the Alabama State Amateur and U.S. Open qualifying. Relatively level (at least by local standards), Bent Brook offers three nine-hole layouts—Brook, Windmill and Graveyard—each with its own unique features and challenges.

A bit further down the road, toward Tuscaloosa, is the Capstone Club. This Gil Hanse-designed course has quickly earned a reputation as one of the best courses in Alabama. Capstone is also a great value—Golf Magazine recently listed the course as one of America’s top 50 with green fees under $50.

For those whose tastes run toward the less expensive (and more informal) municipal course, Birmingham provides a nice pair of options within easy driving distance. Historic Roebuck Golf Course (site of the legendary Bobby Jones’ first tournament victory in 1915) marks its 100th anniversary this year. Roebuck offers a great walking golf course, low fees and a terrific spot for a low-key afternoon round. Bessemer’s Frank House Golf Course is another solid municipal course with a relaxing atmosphere. The short layout features small greens and few bunkers, but there are great scoring opportunities for players who can shape their shots.

Whatever state your game is in; Birmingham has the right course for you. We invite you to try a Birmingham-area public course today.

GOLF & OUTDOORS FarmLinks No 5

PHOTOS: MICHAEL CLEMMER—GOLF LANDSCAPES

30 days in advance. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Groups and outings welcome. All-inclusive golf experience includes unlimited range balls, golf and lunch in the charming FarmHouse Grille.

Managed by Honours Golf.

Highland Park Golf Course 3300 Highland Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35205 205.322.1902; highlandparkgolf.com Known as the oldest course in Alabama, Highland Park still sparkles from the 1998 restoration by renowned architect, Bob Cupp. It offers 18 enticing holes with uphill approach shots, heavily bunkered greens, lakes and beautiful vistas of the Birmingham skyline.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 70 Yardage: 5,801 Rating/Slope: 68.1/128, 66.1/123, 63.8/114 Practice range: Yes Tee times may be made up to five days in advance. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Groups and outings welcome.

Managed by Honours Golf.

Highland Park No.6

Limestone Springs Golf Course 3000 Colonial Drive, Oneonta, AL 35121 205.274.4653; limestonesprings.com Located northeast of Birmingham in Oneonta, this Jerry Pate design stretches almost 7,000 yards throughout the Appalachian Mountains with strategically placed bunkers and numerous lakes. Rated number 64 in “America’s Greatest Public Golf Courses” by Golf Digest, it offers some of the most dramatic elevations and picturesque views in Alabama.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 6,987 Rating/Slope: 74/139 Practice range: Yes Tee times may be made up to seven days in advance. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Groups and outings welcome. Golf cottage sleeps eight, and is available for rental.

Managed by Honours Golf.

Oak Mountain Golf Course Oak Mountain State Park Road, Pelham, AL 35137 205.620.2522;

alapark.com/oakmountaingolf Located 17 miles south of downtown Birmingham in Oak Mountain State Park.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 6,748-5,615 Rating/Slope: 71.5 / 127, 69.8 / 124, 66.7 / 117 Practice range: Yes Pre-noon tee times must be made five days in advance.

American Express, Visa and MasterCard are welcome.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail—Ross Bridge 4000 Grand Avenue Birmingham, AL 35226 205.949.3085; rtjgolf.com/rossbridge A big, muscle-bound course, its 18 holes sprawling over 330 acres and stretching almost 8,200 yards from the back tees, Ross Bridge is big and brawny, yet inviting to golfers of all levels.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 8,191 Rating/Slope: 78.5/135 Practice range: Yes Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail—Oxmoor Valley 100 Sunbelt Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35211 205.942.1177; rtjgolf.com/oxmoorevalley One of nine state-spanning

courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Oxmoor Valley’s course has three sets of links to challenge the golfer on the go and the putter with time on his hands.

• short course No. of holes: 18, Par: 54 Yardage: 3,360 Rating/Slope: n/a • ridge course No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 7,055-4,974 Rating/Slope: 72/136 • Valley course No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 7,055-4,974 Rating/Slope: 71/129 Practice range: Yes Tee time policies and green fees vary throughout the year, so call ahead. All major credit cards are accepted.

Timberline Golf Club 300 Timberline Trail , Calera, AL 35040 205.668.7888,; timberlinegc.com A beautiful course located 30 miles south of Birmingham.

No. of holes: 18, Par: 72 Yardage: 6,773 Rating/Slope: 72.3/126 Practice range: Yes Tee times can be made up to seven days in advance.

All major credit cards are accepted.

EXCURSIONS 85

relatively easy routes to the top as well as more challenging climbs.

Instructions on the rocks tell climbers how to start their ascents.

A national bouldering competition held each fall draws hundreds of climbers from around the United States. for more information: 256.538.7439; hp40.com. getting there: From I-59 North, take the Ashville exit.

Go north on U.S. 231 for about four miles. Watch for signs. For RVs and campers, the easy way is to take I-59 to exit 174. Go north on Steele Station Road.

At U.S. 11, take a left. You’ll soon see a sign at St. Clair 42.

Take a right and go to the top of Chandler Mountain. After this road turns left, follow it for three miles to the entrance; look for signs.

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center Eleven miles of nature trails, ranging from easy to arduous, route visitors through this thousand-acre park.

Hawk’s View Overlook is a moderate, three-mile, roundtrip hike with a challenging incline . Along the way you’ll reach Cambrian Overlook and proceed with a switchback climb to a stunning vista of downtown Birmingham.

The park has plans to expand and to build a new visitors center in the near future.

Guided hikes are offered some Saturdays. The park is closed Mondays. for more information: 205.833.8264; ruffnermountain.org. getting there: The center is 86 EXCURSIONS

at 1214 81st St. South in Birmingham’s East Lake area.

Moss Rock Preserve This 350-acre preserve has boulders for climbers of all skill levels. It is home to four rare plant species, rock outcroppings, streams, waterfalls and wildlife.

The wilderness within the preserve continues to improve as hardwoods grow and age and trails become more defined by continued use.

Maps and signs help direct and guide difficulty.

For maximum mileage, take the loop made up of the Blue and White Trails, which is a little more than three miles long.

Or just spread out in the shady coolness of the preserve and picnic.

Please remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. for more information: 205.444.7866; hooveral.org getting there: From I-459 in Birmingham take Exit 10 onto Alabama 150. Turn east toward downtown Hoover. Turn left on Stadium Trace Parkway. Stay straight; this road becomes Sulphur Springs Road. Go about two miles to the intersection with Preserve Parkway. This road leads to Moss Rock Preserve and to parking for the boulder field.

Horse Pens 40 Horse Pens 40 is a 120-acre nature park atop Chandler Mountain, and one of the Southeast’s best boulder fields.

There’s a warm-up field with

Cahaba River Alabama’s longest river is a great place to canoe or kayak.

Just remember along the way that you’re sharing space with several rare and protected fish and the imperiled Cahaba Lily which once thrived across the southeast.

Floating down the Cahaba’s gentle waters provides a pleasant respite and a close-up look at some of the interesting species.

If you’re looking to make a bigger splash, head to the river’s northernmost portions for some

PHOTO: JEFFREY REASE

Lake Purdy

Birmingham’s Vulcan Trail This easy one-mile paved trail in Alabama’s largest city runs from Vulcan Park to 11th Place South. It’s open to walkers, bikers and inline skaters and is wheelchair accessible.

Pick up a map at the office. for more information: Call 205.933.1409; vulcanpark.org getting there: From downtown Birmingham, head up 20th Street South toward Red Mountain. Look for a small parking lot on the right just before you reach Vulcan Park.

GOLF & OUTDOORS

Ruffner Mountain

PHOTO: (LEFT) NATE DREGER , (RIGHT) BOB FARLEY

Peavine Falls

Level I-III whitewater rapids.

Because shallower waters mark the Cahaba’s steep banks and rocky shoals, it’s best to go canoeing after a heavy rain.

The Cahaba River Society hosts canoe trips down the river, including day trips, moonlight trips and overnight canoeing.

Among the most popular outings are the Lily Trips, which run when the rare and endangered Cahaba Lily is in bloom, from mid-May to mid-June.

All trips are free if you bring your own canoe, and reservations are required. for more information: Cahaba River Society, 205.313.0762; cahabariversociety.org.

Locust Fork Just a short drive from Birmingham, Locust Fork is on the Black Warrior River.

This is an excellent whitewater run with some very difficult rapids known as Double Trouble and House Rock. Beginners will do best to avoid these rapids.

Beautiful limestone bluffs accent the rapids.

The National Park Service places Locust Fork in the top two

percent of rivers in the country for its recreational value, among other assets. getting there: Take I-59 North to Tallapoosa Street Exit (Tarrant). Take Alabama Hwy. 79 North through Cleveland (about 40 minutes). Follow signs to Blountsville and cross the bridge over the Locust Fork River.

Just past the bridge on the right is King’s Bend. Turn into King’s Bend and follow the gravel road through the gate. for more information: flfr.org Oak Mountain State Park Alabama’s largest state park offers plenty of trails for hikers who want a peaceful outing apart from the mountain bikers.

New park goers might want to try the EagleTrail or Treetop Nature Trail for starters, but those are only two of many.

The Peavine Trail, four-and-ahalf miles round trip, is moderate to difficult, but it’s still a popular hike because of the payoff—it leads to Peavine Falls, which cascade down a rock wall and splash into a pool below.

Three suggested hiking loops

begin at the North Trailhead.

Maggie’s Loop is an easy twoand-a-half-mile walk.

North Loop is three-and-ahalf miles long; it’s rated easy to moderate because of some ascents.

Shackelford Loop is rated moderate to difficult because of its six-and-a-half-mile length.

Maps for these and other Oak Mountain trails are available at the park office.

Oak Mountain has a 17-mile mix of bike trails ranging from technical and tight single track, to fast roller coaster rides, to wide-open fire roads.

You can download a map of Oak Mountain bike trails atbump.org, the Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers website.

Here are some adventures to try: Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride—No hills along this just-less-thana-mile single-track trail, but there are some tight turns and narrow sections between trees.

Foreplay—A half-mile-long smooth single-track trail with one sharp S-turn followed by a bumpy, but short, downhill ride.

Johnson’s Mountain—This hilly and woody single-track trail measures a little less than two miles. You’ll cross a creek via a bridge, then follow the creek until you climb the spine of the mountain’s first ridge, and have a quick descent along two remaining ridges.

BUMP Trail—A single-track path climbing one-and-a-quarter miles to Red Road at the top of a ridge.

It’s hilly but smooth at the bottom, and rocky, steep and technical at the top.

Red Road—A fire road leading about five miles counterclockwise from the top of the BUMP Trail to the North Trailhead parking lot.

The last two-and-one-half miles downhill will get your heart pounding. There are eight creek crossings.

Rock Garden—A challenging trail, and you may see deer along the way.

Family-Beginner Trail—A short loop built by BUMP to encourage young riders to take up the sport. The lollipopshaped ride – with a spur and loop at the end – is about oneand-a-half miles long. There are a couple of stream crossings, but no road crossings, and a gentle grade. for more information: 205.620.2524; alapark.com/oakmountain getting to the front gate: Take exit 246 off I-65. Turn west onto Alabama 119, left at the first light on State Park Road. Follow one mile to stop sign, and turn left onto John Findley Road through the front gate into the park. getting to the back gate: Take U.S. 280 to Alabama 119.

Follow three miles to left turn at brown Oak Mountain Public Lake sign. ❖ EXCURSIONS 87

Annual Events

From art shows, parades, music festivals and football to bass fishing, NASCAR and motocross, Birmingham has something for adults and kids alike every month of the year.

The BBVA Compass Bowl Street Party and Pep Rally draws large crowds to 5 Points South every January. photography by Padraic Major

BBVA Compass Bowl

Formerly known as the Birmingham Bowl, this is a post-season NCAA-sanctioned Division I-A college football bowl game played annually at Legion Field.

205.733.3776 ext. 103

Red Shoe Run

Lace up your running shoes, put on your big red clown nose and take off from SoHo in downtown Homewood! Formerly the Red Nose Run, choose to run a 10M, 5k or one-mile fun run to benefit the Ronald McDonald Charities of Alabama, which helps children with illnesses or disabilities. Kids will love the clowns. rednoserun-bham.com 88 EXCURSIONS

Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast

Held annually, a local choirs perform and a guest speaker lifts spirits. Following the breakfast, march to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute for a free tour of the museum then join the historic 16th Street Baptist Church’s afternoon service.

205.324.8797

FEBRUARY Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Black History Month

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

Mercedes Marathon and Half Marathon

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. Sideline crowds line up early Sunday to cheer on the athletes in the big race! It benefits Kid One Transport, which provides transportation to medical facilities.

205.870.7771; mercedesmarathon.com

MARCH St. Patty’s Day Parade

Go Green…or at least wear it! Everyone Irish, and those who want to be, will be traveling down Birmingham’s “green” 20th

PHOTO:

JANUARY

ANNUAL EVENTS St. The parade is a joint venture between Operation New Birmingham, The Alabama Celtic Association, Birmingham Irish Cultural Society and related organizations. All are welcome, so come one, come all and jump in the parade line!

205.324.8797

APRIL Birmingham Botanical Gardens Spring Plant Sale

Bring your green thumb! This annual plant sale raising money for educational programs at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a sight and smell to behold.

There are more than 85,000 plants to choose from, including many native and heirloom specimens, making this fundraiser a must-do for all gardeners and plant lovers.

205.414.3965; bbgardens.org

Aaron’s 499 Race and Dream Weekend

A NASCAR fan’s dream! This NASCAR Nationwide race is action-packed at Talladega Superspeedway. The Superspeedway is the biggest, fastest, most competitive motorsports facility in the world, drawing huge crowds from around the globe for big race weekends. Admission charged.

877.GO2.DEGA; talladegasuperspeedway.com

Indy Grand Prix/Porsche 250

Indy is back! An IRL IndyCar Series open-wheel race, the Indy Grand Prix of Alabama is held at Barber Motorsports Park. Fans filled the park in the race’s inaugural year to see Helio Castroneves bring it home. This is one of the most anticipated events of the year among race fans around the world! Admission charged.

205.967.4745; barbermotorsports.com

ONB Magic City Art Connection

PHOTO:

Experience contemporary art amidst the beautiful shady trees in historic Linn Park.

One of the best festivals of its kind in the region, the weekend-long event features more than 200 exhibiting artists, creative activities for children, workshops, live music and fun for the whole family. Corks and Chefs (next listing) is also a popular draw.

205.595.6306; magiccityart.com

Corks and Chefs

This highly anticipated food and wine extravaganza is the place where art, food

and wine meet to create an explosion of sights, aromas and flavors. Taste cuisine from Birmingham’s top restaurants and chefs, known as the Birmingham Originals, and sip a bounty of unique wines from around the world. Seven chefs are featured daily. Guided wine seminars are offered hourly by knowledgeable wine experts. Seats fill up fast. This is the only ticketed portion of the Magic City Art Connection (previous listing).

205.595.6306; magiccityart.com

Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival

Locals rush to Saint Elias Maronite Catholic Church to be first in line to taste traditional Lebanese cuisine. The kibbie plate and spinach pies are must-eats. And the deserts—wow! Traditional dancing and music daily.

205.252.3867; stelias.org

MAY Schaeffer Eye Center Crawfish Boil

Schaeffer Eye Center Crawfish Boil Party with the pop stars! Crawfish are still a draw to this music festival, but the main attractions have become the big musical acts that take the stage. Admission charged. schaeffercrawfishboil.com

SEC Baseball Tournament

Played at the home field of the Birmingham Barons at Regions Park in Hoover, the heavy hitters of the SEC take to the diamond to square off in this eight-team double elimination series. The premiere college baseball tournament in the country, teams hope to win to get an automatic spot in the College World Series. In 2010, the tournament saw a record attendance of 126,071 fans. Admission charged. www.secsports.com

JUNE Black Creek Arts Festival at Black Creek Park

Presented by Fultondale Arts Council at Black Creek Park in Fultondale, Ala. The Annual Black Creek Arts Festival at Black Creek Park is a juried art show with more than $400 in prize money given.

More than 40 artists have participated in the past. We will have musical entertainment and children’s arts activities. fultondaleartscouncil.org

Thunder on the Mountain

The Regions Tradition

The Regions Tradition, one of five major tournaments on the PGA Champions Tour, will be played at Shoal Creek Club, an internationally recognized course in Birmingham with a history of hosting championship tournaments. Admission charged.

205.967.4745; regionstradition.com

Trunkstock sponsored by Avondale Brewing Company

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. It seems like everyone in Birmingham shows up for this one! avondalebrewing.com

Juneteenth Culture Fest Celebration

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 blow-up fun activities, performances from local dance troops, lots of wacky contests and more.

205.328.9696; bcri.org

EXCURSIONS 89

ANNUAL EVENTS

Mercedes Marathon and Half Marathon

Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival

Slicefest

Sponsored and organized by the Greater Birmingham Street Food Coalition—this annual rally features food trucks, push carts and trailers serving up all kinds of culinary treats. This one day rally usually occurs on Birmingham’s southside. bhmstreetfoodcoalition.com

Slicefest

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.

Benefits Alabama Forever and The Suki Foundation. slicefest.com

Magic City Brewfest

This annaul festival is the best way to sample the best beers in the South.

While you can purchase a “beer only” ticket, it’s worth it to ante up a few extra dollars to sample some of fine gourmet food while you are tooling around Historic Sloss Furnaces. Admission charged. magiccitybrewfest.com

JULY Thunder on the Mountain

Vulcan Park and Museum throws a Fourth of July fireworks extravaganza on top of Red Mountain, showering the beloved iron man, Vulcan, with sparkling light.

90 EXCURSIONS

Folks bring lawn chairs and line the streets of southside, downtown and Homewood to celebrate our nation’s independence.

205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

Tin Roof Brew Bash

This one-day street festival closes down part of 7th Avenue South in Lakeview in front of Tin Roof and features beers from our local breweries, bands and great food. tinroof bars.com/Birmingham

Alabama Theatre Summer Film Series

This historic theatre is a must for film lovers in the summer!

Classics like Gone with the Wind, Adam’s Rib, Tammy and the Bachelor, Psycho and The Sound of Music are featured on Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees. Select Sundays offer Kids Matinees such as Lady and the Tramp, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Bedknobs and Broomsticks. Admission charged.

205.251.0418; alabamatheatre.com

AUGUST Sloss Furnaces Stokin’ the Fire BBQ and Music Festival

Nominated as one of the best in the country, this People’s Choice BBQ Competition allows you to pick your favorite cooking team.Winning teams receive cash prizes and hand-made iron trophies forged

by Sloss Furnaces iron artists. This annual fundraiser for Sloss Furnaces also features

high-gravity beer tastings, music throughout the two-day festival as well as a kid zone and remote control stock car racing to ensure fun for all ages. Admission charged.

205.324.1911; slossfurnaces.com

Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival

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. Voted by TIME Magazine as one of America’s “Top 10 Film Festivals for the Rest of Us,” this festival provides the opportunity to see independent films that don’t normally appear in local theatres and the chance to vote for Viewer’s Choice. Admission charged.

205.324.0888; sidewalkfest.com

SEPTEMBER ArtWalk

City streets from Morris Avenue to 2nd Avenue 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. The Kids Zone features art activities for the family, while bars and restaurants scattered through downtown open for food and local music. birminghamartwalk.org

Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival

The 4th Avenue Business District will be

PHOTO: PHOTO: (TOP RIGHT) DAVID R. DONALDSON; (BOTTOM LEFT) ALI CLARK

Street Food Rally

ANNUAL EVENTS

Sloss Furnaces Stokin’ the Fire

Talladega Superspeedway

PHOTO: PHOTO: (TOP LEFT) PADRAIC MAJOR; (TOP RIGHT) BOB FARLEY

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.

Booths showcasing Birmingham’s talented artists and sculptors line the streets for a visual treat, in addition to the food and music. justataste.org

Break ‘N Bread

OCTOBER

This premiere food and wine event is hosted by the Birmingham Originals, an association of the city’s best local independent restaurant owners.

This outdoor wine and dine event is held at the 2nd Avenue Design District at Pepper Place in Birmingham’s southside.

Besides the delicious cuisine, expect live music and fun for the kids.

Admission charged. birminghamoriginals.org

Talladega Good Sam Club 500 Race

Barber Vintage Fest

This race for the NASCAR Sprint Cup is the ultimate racing experience for NASCAR fans at action-packed Talladega Superspeedway.

The Superspeedway is biggest, fastest, most competitive motorsports facility in the world, drawing huge crowds from around the globe for big race weekends.

Admission charged.

877.GO2.DEGA; talladegasuperspeedway.com

The Barber Vintage Festival is a motorcycle enthusiasts dream come true! Set against the backdrop of the Barber Motorsports Museum’s collection of more than 1,200 vintage and modern motorcycles, the festival offers access to motorcycles and the legends that made the sport what it is today.

Also available is the motorcycle parts swap-meet where locating that needed hard-to-find part for your project is made

Magic City Classic

Get ready to rumble!

Alabama State University collides with Alabama A&M at Legion Field to battle for victory in this long-standing 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

easier. Admission charged.

205.699.7275; barbervintagefestival.org

Fiesta!

Experience Hispanic culture through music, food, art and dance. Fiesta! is a unique opportunity to learn about more than 20 Latin American countries represented in their own community. Set on the lawn of Linn Park, this festival draws fun crowds of more than 20,000, making it one of the largest of its kind in the Southeast. fiestahbc.com

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

The Komen Race for the Cure Series, the largest series of 5k runs/fitness walks in the world with well over one million participants, draws a host of runners and walkers to raise money and awareness for the fight against breast cancer.

Many come to celebrate surviving the disease or to honor those who have lost the battle.

Registration fee.

205.930.8886; komen.org

Cask & Drum

Day of the Dead Festival

Cask & Drum is Birmingham’s freshest new event, and unlike anything you’ve ever seen in The Magic City.

To sum it up in one sentence, it would go something like this: Cask & Drum is a place you can find your favorite new band, beer and wine—all in a single afternoon. caskanddrum.com EXCURSIONS 91

ANNUAL EVENTS

NOVEMBER Moss Rock Festival

This eco-friendly festival held at the Preserve in Hoover celebrates nature and open spaces and explores eco-ideas through art made from recycled or natural materials and design through installation and sculpture. Enjoy a geo-positioning game, guided hikes, good food and beautiful Alabama fall weather.

205.595.6306; mossrockfestival.com

Veteran’s Day Parade

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

Vulcan 10K Run

Day of the Dead Festival

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, Day of the Dead Festival is celebrated in Downtown. The exact location varies from year to year, so please Google “Day of the Dead Birmingham” for the latest information and location.

DECEMBER Alabama Theatre Christmas Film Festival

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. Sing along to Christmas carols to get you in the spirit.

Watch for plenty of Cousin Eddie look-alikes, as dressing in character with dickeys showing through tight sweaters has become a popular accessory to the main show. Admission charged.

205.251.0418; alabamatheatre.com

Jingle Bell Run

With bells on their shoes, red noses and occasional Santa’s hat or antler headgear, runners hit the cold winter pavement to benefit the Alabama Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation.

Get in the spirit of holiday giving with the 5k or fun walk.

205.979.5700; arthritis.org

Zoolight Safari

See the Birmingham Zoo illuminated with more than half a million lights by train ride or foot.

Take a ride on the Jingle Bell Carousel or jump aboard the winter hayride.

One of the few times to enjoy the zoo at night.

205.879.0409; birminghamzoo.com ❖

PHOTO:

Experienced runners and novices lace their sneakers for this fun 10K that begins

downtown at the Boutwell Auditorium and weaves through beautiful Highland Park area. The roads are blocked off and crowds gather along the route to cheer on the participants. Registration fee. vulcanrun.com

92 EXCURSIONS

SCORE HERE EVERY TIME!

OPEN AT 11 AM | 3 0 HDTV’S | 2 CHEFS | BILLIARDS | 2 BARS | GREAT ATMOSPHERE

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1108 20TH STREET SOUTH | BIRMINGHAM | 5 POINTS SOUTH | 205.983.7522