As Alabama’s most populous city, there are more restaurants, bars and activities than you can ever find on your own in Birmingham. That’s why we asked a group of local experts to help out and tell us about their favorite hidden gems around town.
Birmingham is also full of historical value, thought-provoking museums, a strong music scene and plenty of areas designed specifically for outdoor fun. But, where do the locals in the know go when they clock out for the day?
1. Jemison Park Nature Trail
Source: facebook.com/Jacqueline JaNet Fisher
Perfect for those who like to run, walk or simply take the dog out for some exercise, Jemison Park Nature Trail is a perfect choice. “It’s shaded for most of the trail,” shares Melissa Cunningham-Campbell, Owner of Monkee’s of Mountain Brook, “and we always spot some wildlife which makes it so much more interesting.”
Jemison Park sits within the Mountain Brook neighborhood, a popular spot for local attractions. It’s also home to the Birmingham Zoo and Brookwood Village, an open-air shopping complex.
2. City Walk
Source: facebook.com/CityWalkBham/
For a different outdoor experience, Wavey Davey, Influencer, Creator, Photographer and Model at Simply Dave Photography likes to toss on a pair of roller skates. Heading to City Walk, Davey will trade-off between the skating rinks and paths in the parks.
“I like to roller skate and skate on my free days and the rinks and parks at City Walk are one of the best things to happen to Birmingham in my opinion,” says Davey.
In total, City Walk covers 31 acres across the Evergreen neighborhood.
3. The Backyard Leeds
Source: facebook.com/thebackyardleeds/
For a full day of fun, Caroline Moffitt of The Backyard Leeds suggests you come visit her. Less than 20 minutes from Downtown Birmingham, The Backyard Leeds can keep families, a group of friends in their twenties and seniors busy all day. There’s truly something for everyone.
“We have mini golf, a dog park, playground, Saw’s BBQ, Neighbors Brew & Pies, an indoor and outdoor bar, event spaces for parties of all sizes, live entertainment from Thursday-Sunday, yard space to play your favorite games, like corn hole or horseshoes, AND a drive-in movie theater with a snack shack concession stand.”
Prepare to stay for the entire day when you come to this hidden gem.
4. Hidden antique gems
Source: facebook.com/Hanna Antiques
With plenty of options across Birmingham to go antiquing, Olivia B. Carter, Owner of Olivia B. Photography has two go-to spots. Hanna Antiques in Southside and Irondale Pickers just 15 minutes away in Irondale top her list.
“By the time I get through all of the booths at each of those locations, it’s usually time for dinner,” says Carter.
5. Railroad Park
A 19-acre green space right in the center of downtown, Railroad Park connects Downtown Birmingham with Southside and the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. With its urban location, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some outdoor time without having to lace up the hiking boots.
It’s a go-to spot for Corbitt Chandler, a local Digital Marketer and Entrepreneur, when he has a day off and feels the need to get some fresh air.
6. La Libertad
Technically not in Birmingham proper, La Libertad is a Salvadoran restaurant in Pelham. The short drive is worth it though, according to Alexis Blaydoe, Creative Director and Event Leader at Back Forty Beer Co. She highly recommends their pupusas. “The rich cornmeal cake stuffed with cheese and beans is cut by the heaping mound of curtido (spicy fermented cabbage slaw) that I like to pile on top,” she says.
7. Brewery tours
Source: facebook.com/GoodPeopleBrewing
Rather than recommend just one Birmingham brewery to visit, Dustin Hughes of City Brew Tours Birmingham thinks you should check out as many as possible. “The brewery scene here in Birmingham is rapidly growing and constantly pushing out new delicious craft beers. Whether it is a nice hot summer day or a cool fall night, going to our breweries to just hang out with friends is the best,” he says.
8. Protective Stadium
Source: facebook.com/protectivestadium
Not necessarily a hidden gem, but new to the city, Protective Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium at the edge of Druid Hills. It’s a must-stop place for Katie and Alec Dixon, Owners and Photographers at Katie & Alec.
You can catch a University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers football game, watch the Birmingham Legion Football Club score or catch a special game hosted by the US Football League.
9. Oak Mountain State Park
“Many are aware that this breathtaking oasis exists,” says Lorenda Pryor of Pinkie’s Closet, “but not everyone explores all that it has to give.” When it comes to Oak Mountain State Park, Pryor suggests that you skip the busy main beach and check out the hiking trail that starts just a few steps across the street. “There are a plethora of different owl species and their habitats scattered along the way. It’s beautiful!”
For the real inside scoop on enjoying this particular park, look for the back entrance. According to Pryor, it’s much more serene and features a trail that goes right along the water.
10. Coffee shops
Source: facebook.com/CaveatCoffee
Everyone needs that go-to coffee shop in their home city. For Kenslie McGuire, Owner and Photographer at Kenslie, she’s lucky enough to have a favorite coffee spot for weekdays and a different one for weekends.
“I’m a freelance photographer so I love to work at coffee shops most days. Caveat is one of my favorites. On Saturdays, I love to get coffee at General and walk around Forest Park.”
11. El Barrio
Source: facebook.com/elbarriobirmingham
Situated in Central City, El Barrio is a “Tex-Mex Birmingham staple,” according to Kayla Stinnett, Marketing Maven at local favorite Cahaba Brewing Co. “I’ll find just about any excuse to stop by El Barrio,” she says, claiming the restaurant lives up to all the hype.
“The fare is flavorful, the staff is excellent and they have a full bar menu to quench your thirst.” Unique and popular dishes abound, including plantain nachos, chicken escabeche and the beef barbacoa quesadilla. Stinnett also advises you order dessert. “It’s the best part.”
Not that anyone needs an extra push to order dessert, but we appreciate Kayla for providing it, anyway.
Other popular spots in Birmingham
These specific hidden gems are only the start of what you can discover living in Birmingham. Believe it or not, our local experts had even more to share for those looking for a new place to eat, drink, hang out or shop in Bham.
For eating and drinking:
For hanging out
For a unique shopping experience, top off your list at Urban Suburban. Here you’ll find a mix of antique and vintage items. Located in the Crestwood neighborhood, this mainstay has over 65 individual vendors.
What will you discover in Birmingham?
Birmingham really is a special city. Boasting ample entertainment choices, a plethora of places to get a delicious meal, beautiful outdoor options and so much more, there’s no excuse to be bored while you’re living here. Lace’em up and head out to explore The Magic City yourself today.
