Beat the heat: 7 cool ways to enjoy downtown this summer ?
Summer temperatures don’t have to keep you indoors at home. Downtown Birmingham is filled with museums, theaters, cafés, breweries, restaurants and other air-conditioned destinations that make it easy to enjoy the city all season long. From catching an independent film to exploring world-class art collections, here are some of the best indoor activities in Birmingham to help you […]
Navigating downtown: Parking and transit?
Whether you’re visiting downtown Birmingham for a weekend getaway, attending a conference, catching a show, or exploring the area’s restaurants and attractions, getting around is easier than you might expect. Downtown’s districts are connected by a walkable street grid, and visitors have several transportation options available — from public transit and on-demand rides to parking decks and convenient mobile […]
The ripple effect of downtown investment?
Big change downtown rarely happens because of a single project. More often, one investment makes people see a place differently. A park fills up. A trail gets people walking between neighborhoods. An old building turns its lights back on. People spend more time there. Businesses open nearby. More people decide to live downtown. Slowly, one […]
Becoming a preservation advocate (even if you’re not an expert)?
Historic preservation can feel intimidating from the outside. The terminology, tax credits, architectural styles and policy conversations can make it seem like you need a specialized background before you can participate. But the truth is, some of the strongest preservation advocates are simply people who care deeply about the places they call home. For the […]
Gifting from the heart of the Magic City?
Downtown Birmingham is kind of a gift in itself! Tucked along our streets are locally-owned shops full of personality, creativity and things you simply won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re shopping for a holiday, a birthday, or a “just because” moment, downtown offers no shortage of meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifting options. Plus, shopping local doesn’t just feel good, it does good. Every purchase helps keep our favorite spots thriving, […]
Feet on the street: 10 events that activate downtown every year ?
Downtown Birmingham comes alive through the rhythm of its events, each one playing a unique role in shaping the city’s vibrancy, foot traffic and economic momentum. From the festive aromas of the Greek Food Festival to the nostalgic charm of the Alabama Theatre’s Holiday Film Series to the joyful crowds drawn by the Magic City Classic, these events don’t just entertain — they bring our streets, sidewalks, shops and restaurants to life.
Where to catch live performances downtown?
Downtown Birmingham is a cityscape alive with sound. From jazz-soaked lounges to grand historic theatres, indie rock dives to state-of-the-art arenas. Whether you’re a casual listener, a die-hard music buff, a theatre enthusiast or a comedy connoisseur, this live performance trail will guide you through the very best that downtown Birmingham has to offer — by district and by vibe.
Eat around the world in Five Points South?
Five Points South isn’t just a historic district; it’s a passport to global flavor, right in the heart of downtown Birmingham. Known for its character, culture and creativity, Five Points is where the world comes to eat — no plane ticket required. Ready to take your tastebuds on a trip?
Minor league, major impact on Downtown BHM?
In a region where college football typically dominates the headlines, Birmingham offers something a bit different: A walkable and diverse minor league sports environment with four teams located downtown. According to a 2024 study by Coastal Carolina University, only Des Moines, Oklahoma City, San Jose and Birmingham have achieved this kind of centralized sports synergy. […]
Tracing the origins of Five Points South’s Annual St. Patrick’s Celebration ?
When February turns to March, a Celtic spirit awakens in Birmingham’s historic Five Points South neighborhood, setting the stage for one of the city’s most anticipated events: The Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. As excitement builds for this beloved tradition, one might wonder about its origins. Well, the story behind it is just as captivating as people-watching on parade day!