City Pulse: The Only Guide To Birmingham, Alabama You Need

by Tom Bastek
Last updated: 7:00 AM ET, Mon November 24, 2014

We Say:

From its founding in 1871 as part of a post-Civil War reconstruction project to the late 1960s, Birmingham was one of the primary industrial centers of the south. "The Magic City," the nickname given to the city for the boom in growth from the 1880s to the 1920s, is today a major hub for the medical and financial industries.

The downtown is going through major redevelopment based around Railroad Park and the minor league baseball Barrons' stadium. Once known as a center of attention during the civil rights movement, the city is more tolerant than ever and boasts diversity, culture and fun.

Foodies and beer geeks unite as Birmingham is now home to James Beard Award-winning chefs and numerous craft breweries.

They Say:

Outdoor entertainment and the arts are a dominant part of Birmingham's character. Take a quilt and a picnic to Railroad Park in the heart of downtown and listen to Alabama music. Live music is the signature entertainment of the city. Visit the dozens of art galleries around the city for funk, fine and folk art treasures. For visitors interested in architecture, the city's downtown buildings are a collection of Cinderella stories.

Many early skyscrapers are now refurbished, dressed up and housing restaurants, law firms and luxury condos. Adding to the Birmingham vibe are award-winning chef-owned dining rooms throughout the area attracting visitors from around the Southeast to spend the weekend simply dining. For all of its small town charm, Birmingham is a sophisticated, well-heeled international community.

With a rich history of Italian, Lebanese, Greek, Asian, Hispanic and Eastern European immigrants, Birmingham benefits from the gifts of many backgrounds. The influences are all around us and beautifully melded into the diversity of our Southern culture. - Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau

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