Sometimes locals forget how much there is to do in Birmingham. If you ever have a day without any obligations, set it aside for exploring; get out into the Magic City and see all there is to see. Need suggestions? Let this be your guide.
1. Breakfast/brunch at Another Broken Egg
This cozy restaurant is the perfect place for breakfast or brunch (depending on how early you want to start your day). The food is freshly made and you’ll enjoy the French country atmosphere. Another Broken Egg serves pancakes, omelets, French toast and many other breakfast choices, satisfying the hunger of every breakfast lover.
2. Either Birmingham Museum of Art…
Even if art isn’t your thing (it’s not my thing), I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t enjoy the Birmingham Museum of Art. You can easily find yourself spending hours in this museum without even realizing it, admiring the more than 24,000 works of art. With one of the finest art collections in the Southeast, you’ll find paintings dating back to the early 13th century alongside intriguing modern art.
3. … or Birmingham Zoo
The Birmingham Zoo is a great attraction for all ages. Feed giraffes, have birds drink out of the palm of your hand, enjoy a sea lion show or simply check out all 800 of the animals that call the Birmingham Zoo their home.
4. Lunch at Mr. P’s
Mr. P’s is your classic deli shop. Meat is sliced in-store for delicious signature sandwiches made right in front of you. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is old-fashioned. A few favorites: the Blazer and the Fantastic Fred’s.
5. Picnic at Railroad Park
Railroad Park is a beautiful space for residents and visitors of Birmingham to enjoy some fresh air in a city environment. I recommend getting your lunch to go, laying down a blanket on the green of Railroad Park and picnicking while taking in the amazing Birmingham skyline.
6. Either shopping in downtown Homewood…
Downtown Homewood has much to offer in the shopping department. You’ll find locally-owned boutiques of all kinds. Downtown Homewood features stores offering children’s clothing, women and men’s apparel, accessories, home décor, maternity wear and so much more. Ambiance, pictured above, is a great example of the kind of shops you can find on this adorable strip.
7. … or Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens offers an escape from the city and a way to enjoy the outdoor air. Walk along the numerous gardens including the Crape Myrtle Garden, the Dunn Formal Rose Garden and the Asian Glade (pictured above) while enjoying seasonal flowers in the peaceful atmosphere.
8. Dinner at Little Donkey
Little Donkey, which is located in downtown Homewood, is the place to go for fresh, unique Mexican food. From the chips and salsa to the slow-cooked meat, every food item is either bought locally or made from scratch in-house. The lively atmosphere and amazing food make for a great dining experience. (My personal favorite: La Taqueria with a side of Elote — corn on the cob with cotija cheese and ancho chili powder.)
9. Steel City Pops
To cleanse your palate, stop by Steel City Pops, located conveniently next door to Little Donkey. With such a variety of unique flavors, there is something for everyone. Craving adventure? Try ginger wasabi. Want a classic? Chocolate is always available. All the pops are made fresh every day in the store with all-natural ingredients.
10. Visit the Vulcan
To conclude your day in Birmingham, why not end it with a view? The Vulcan gives you an amazing perspective of the Magic City. Try to catch the sunset and watch the city transform from an urban metropolis to a sea of twinkling lights.
Using this guide, get out into your city. Explore and find things on your own. Birmingham is filled with many other great restaurants, attractions and places to shop. These are just a few fun and favorited places available to try.
By Abby Colella