TRAVEL PLANNERS GUIDE - Birmingham...From the boogie-woogie beginnings of Clarence “Pinetop” Smith to the velvet crooning of Nat King Cole, legendary jazz greats are immortalized

TRAVEL PLANNERS GUIDE

2 | T R A V E L P L A N N E R S G U I D E*Cover Image: The Lyric Theatre was built in 1914 as a venue for performances by national vaudeville acts. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Lyric has been restored and is part of Birmingham’s historic theater district which also includes the Alabama Theatre, a 1920s movie palace.

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WELCOME

WHAT TO DO

WHERE TO STAY

WHERE TO EAT (BY LOCATION)

BESSEMER/WEST

DOWNTOWN/SOUTHSIDE

EASTWOOD/IRONDALE/LEEDS

HOMEWOOD/MOUNTAIN BROOK/INVERNESS

HOOVER/VESTAVIA HILLS

BIRMINGHAM AREA INFORMATION

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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GREATER BIRMINGHAM HOTELS


NORTH BIRMINGHAM

Best Western Plus Gardendale (1)

Comfort Suites Fultondale (5)

Days Inn Fultondale (8)

Fairfield Inn & Suites Birmingham Fultondale/I-65 (6)

Hampton Inn Birmingham - Fultondale (4)

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Birmingham - Fultondale (3)

La Quinta Inn & Suites Fultondale (7)

Microtel Inn & Suites Gardendale (2)

WEST BIRMINGHAM

America’s Best Inn Hotel Fairfield (14)

Best Western Plus Bessemer Hotel & Suites (24)

Birmingham Motor Court (11)

Budget Motel (10)

Budget Motel Bessemer (16)

Comfort Inn Bessemer (23)

Country Inn & Suites Bessemer (26)

Economy Inn (18)

Fairfield Inn & Suites Birmingham/Bessemer (27)

Hampton Inn Bessemer (20)

Hiway Host Motel (15)

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Bessemer (22)

Knights Inn - Bessemer (19)

Motel 6 Bessemer (17)

Quality Inn Bessemer (25)

Sleep Inn Bessemer

Southern Comfort Motel (12)

Sun Inn (13)

Travelers Rest Motel (9)

Value Place Hotel (21)

DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

Anchor Motel (45)

Apex Motel (31)

Cobb Lane Bed and Breakfast (43)

Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham Downtown/West (28)

Days Inn Birmingham/West (44)

DoubleTree by Hilton Birmingham (38)

Hassinger Daniels Mansion Bed and Breakfast (42)

Homewood Suites - Opening 2014 (40)

Hospitality Inn (37)

Hotel Highland at Five Points South (41)

Kings Inn Civic Center/UAB (30)

The Redmont Hotel (35)

Residence Inn Birmingham Downtown @ UAB (39)

Sheraton Birmingham Hotel (32)

SpringHill Suites Birmingham Downtown (36)

Tourway Inn (29)

Tutwiler Hotel Hampton Inn & Suites (34)

The Westin Birmingham (33)

HWY 280 BIRMINGHAM

Aloft Birmingham Soho Square (74)

Birmingham Marriott (85)

Comfort Inn & Suites Colonnade (82)

Courtyard by Marriott Colonnade (77)

Days Inn Birmingham/Summit Mall (89)

Drury Inn & Suites Birmingham Southeast (79)

Embassy Suites Birmingham (73)

Extended Stay America Perimeter Park South (84)

Fairfield Inn Birmingham Inverness (87)

Grand Bohemian Hotel - Opening 2015 (75)

Hampton Inn Colonnade (80)

Hampton Inn Mountain Brook (76)

Hilton Birmingham Perimeter Park (83)

Hilton Garden Inn Liberty Park (78)

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Inverness (90)

La Quinta Inn Birmingham/ Cahaba Park South (86)

SpringHill Suites Birmingham Colonnade (81)

StudioPLUS Deluxe Studios - Birmingham Inverness (88)

EAST BIRMINGHAM

American Interstate Motel (49)

America’s Best Inns Birmingham Airport Hotel (46)

America’s Best Inn Birmingham East (54)

Americas Best Value Inn - East/Irondale (65)

America’s Best Value Inn - Leeds (72)

Anchor Motel Eastlake (53)

Bama Motel (52)

Birmingham Garden Inn & Suites (62)

Clarion Hotel & Conference Center (48)

Comfort Inn Airport (63)

Comfort Inn & Suites Trussville (60)

Courtyard by Marriott Trussville (58)

Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham - East I-20 (70)

Hampton Inn Leeds (71)

Hampton Inn Trussville (56)

Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham/ Trussville (57)

Holiday Inn Airport (47)

Holiday Inn Express Irondale (68)

Holiday Inn Express Trussville (59)

Intown Suites Birmingham North (55)

Motel 8 Inn (45)

Quality Inn Irondale (69)

Quality Inn Trussville (61)

Relax Inn (51)

Rime Garden Inn & Suites (66)

Siesta Motel (67)

Sky Inn (50)

USA Economy Lodge Irondale (64)

SOUTH BIRMINGHAM

America’s Best Value Inn - Homewood/Birmingham (110)

America’s Best Value Inn & Suites - Homewood/Birmingham (94)

Baymont Inn & Suites Birmingham/Vestavia (114)

Best Western Carlton Suites Hotel (103)

Candlewood Suites Birmingham/Homewood (111)

Comfort Inn Homewood (102)

Country Inn & Suites Homewood (108)

Courtyard by Marriott Hoover (118)

Days Inn Birmingham/Vestavia Hills (115)

Days Inn Galleria (119)

Drury Inn & Suites Southwest (104)

Econo Lodge (116)

Econo Lodge Oxmoor (101)

Embassy Suites Birmingham/ Hoover (122)

Extended Stay America Wildwood (97)

Hampton Inn I-65/Lakeshore Drive (96)

Hampton Inn & Suites Hoover - Galleria (120)

Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham/Lakeshore (107)

Holiday Inn Birmingham - Homewood (105)

Holiday Inn Hoover (124)

Homewood Lodge (92)

Howard Johnson Inn Birmingham (100)

Hyatt Place Birmingham/Hoover (121)

Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel (117)

Intown Suites Birmingham Central (95)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Birmingham/Homewood (99)

Microtel Inn & Suites Hoover (123)

Motel 6 Birmingham (93)

Quality Inn Homewood (109)

Residence Inn Homewood (98)

Residence Inn Hoover (125)

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa (113)

Sun Suites of Birmingham (112)

Super 8 Homewood Birmingham Area (94)

TownePlace Suites by Marriott – Homewood (106)

USA Economy Lodge Homewood (91)

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As soon as you arrive in Birmingham, you’ll sense the Southern hospitality and small-town charm that make Alabama’s largest city the perfect destination for your next group tour.

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PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

IN BIRMINGHAM

With its amazing selection of attractions, accommodations and restaurants, Birmingham has all the ingredients for a tour your group will never forget.

Our dining scene is filled with delicious spots that serve up everything from the world’s best barbecue to gourmet cuisine, and our malls and shopping centers are some of the best in the South. Plus, our wide variety of attractions and incredible year-round entertainment guarantees that, in Birmingham, the moments are anything but dull. And when it’s time to rest up after a long day of enjoying our city, Birmingham’s extensive selection of accommodations is sure to satisfy.

Best of all, when you bring your group to Birmingham, the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau is dedicated to helping you make your tour a success. Call us at 1-800-458-8085 or visit inbirmingham.com to learn more and start planning today. We’re looking forward to seeing you in Birmingham.


WHAT TO DO

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ATTRACTIONS

Everyone finds something to love in Birmingham. Year-round entertainment includes recreational, historical and cultural offerings, plus an abundance of attractions to keep our visitors busy. For more information on Birmingham-area attractions, entertainment and museums, visit us online at inbirmingham.com.

ALABAMA JAZZ HALL OF FAME(P) 205.254.2731 1631 4TH AVENUE NORTH JAZZHALL.COM

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 Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton, Erskine Hawkins, and Sun Ra and His Intergalactic Space Arkestra.

Open: Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm. Admission.

ALABAMA MUSEUM OF THE HEALTH SCIENCES(P) 205.934.4475 LISTER HILL LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM 1700 UNIVERSITY BLVD UAB.EDU/AMHS

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.

Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm.

ALABAMA SPORTS HALL OF FAME(P) 205.323.6665 2150 RICHARD ARRINGTON JR BLVD N ASHOF.ORG

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, 9am – 5pm. Admission.

ALABAMA THEATRE (P) 205-252-2262 1817 3RD AVENUE NORTH ALABAMATHEATRE.COM

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.

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ALABAMA VETERANS MEMORIAL (P) 205.985.9488 100 OVERTON ROAD BIRMINGHAM, AL 35243 ALABAMAVETERANS.ORG

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.

ALABAMA WINE TRAILWine enthusiasts are delighted to find vineyards and wineries in the Birmingham area. Be sure to sample the robust muscadine and delicate peach wines made from local fruit. Call for information on tours, wine tastings and hours of operation.

VIZZINI FARMS WINERY(P) 205.685.0655 800 COUNTY ROAD 87 CALERA, AL 35040 VIZZINIFARMSWINERY.COM

OZAN VINEYARD & CELLARS(P) 205.668.6926 173 COUNTY ROAD 301 CALERA, AL 35040 OZANWINE.COM

MORGAN CREEK VINEYARDS(P) 205.672.2053 181 MORGAN CREEK LN HARPERSVILLE, AL 35078 MORGANCREEKWINERY.COM

ALDRIDGE GARDENS(P) 205.682.8019 3530 LORNA ROAD HOOVER, AL 35216 ALDRIDGEGARDENS.COM

A 30-acre natural garden with a 5-acre lake, beautiful hydrangeas, the largest Frank Fleming Collection in the area, an art gallery and sculptures throughout the property. Aldridge Gardens is truly Birmingham area’s “best kept secret.” Aldridge Gardens, “Nature and Art in Balance.”


AMERICAN VILLAGE(P) 205.665.3535 3727 HIGHWAY 119 AMERICANVILLAGE.ORG

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 10am, noon and 2pm. Special programs for groups by appointment. Admission.

ARLINGTON ANTEBELLUM HOME & GARDEN(P) 205.780.5656 331 COTTON AVE SW INFORMATIONBIRMINGHAM.COM/ARLINGTON

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 it as headquarters. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm; Sunday, 1pm – 4pm (tickets sold until 3pm). Admission.

BARBER VINTAGE MOTORSPORTS MUSEUM(P) 205.699.7275 6030 BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARKWAY BARBERMUSEUM.ORG

Home to the world’s best motorcycle collection, the museum now has more than 1,200 vintage and modern motorcycles and racecars, along with the largest collection of Lotus cars and other significant makes. The collection is the largest of its kind in the world, with approximately 600 of the 1,200 motorcycles in the collection on display at any given time. These bikes range from 1902 to current-year production. Common street bikes are represented, as are rare 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, 10am – 5pm; Sunday, noon – 5pm. Admission.


BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS(P) 205.414.3900 2612 LANE PARK RD BBGARDENS.ORG

Less than five minutes from Downtown, the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens features more than 67 acres of awe-inspiring, natural splendor for visitors of all ages. Over 350,000 visitors grace the grounds every year to enjoy the thematic gardens, abundant plant life, walking paths, artwork and sculpture. Additionally, a climate-controlled conservatory, the largest of its kind in the Southeast, nurtures rare and delicate plants from around the world. For a verdant feast for the senses unlike anything else in Alabama, stop by today for a quick walkabout or extended relaxation.

BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS HERITAGE TRAILBEGINNING AT KELLY INGRAM PARK, CORNER OF 6TH AVE N AND 16TH ST IN DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM. FOLLOW MAPS ON SIGNS.

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.

BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE(P) 205-328-9696 520 16TH STREET NORTH BCRI.ORG

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 1950s and early 1960s. 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, 10am - 5pm; Sunday, 1pm - 5pm. Admission.

BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART(P) 205.254.2565 2000 REV ABRAHAM WOODS JR BLVD ARTSBMA.ORG

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, Pre-Columbian 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 remarkable 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, 10am – 5pm; Sunday, noon – 5pm. Donations welcome.

BIRMINGHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY(P) 205.226.3600 2100 PARK PLACE BPLONLINE.ORG

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, 9am – 8pm; Wednesday – Saturday, 9am – 6pm; Sunday, 2pm – 6pm.

BIRMINGHAM RACE COURSE(P) 205.838.7500 1000 JOHN ROGERS DR BIRMINGHAMRACECOURSE.COM

A spacious pari-mutuel racing 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 years or older to play. Open daily 11am – 1 am.

BIRMINGHAM ZOO(P) 205.879.0409 2630 CAHABA RD BIRMINGHAMZOO.COM

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

ETERNAL WORD TELEVISIONNETWORK – EWTN (P) 205.271.2900 EWTN.COM

One of the best-known religious sites in Birmingham is EWTN, the Eternal Word Television Network, founded by Mother Mary Angelica and broadcast 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. New daily Mass, music, news and devotionals are broadcast round-the-clock to more than 53 million homes in 32 countries. Tours by appointment only.

HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM(P) 205.668.3435 1919 9TH ST, CALERA HODRRM.ORG

Alabama’s official railroad museum, the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, has operating standard gauge and narrow gauge trains, along with 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 are available—call for dates and times. Museum open Tuesday – Saturday, 9am – 4pm. Donations welcome.

KELLY INGRAM PARKBOUNDED BY 16TH AND 17TH ST AND 5TH AND 6TH AVE NORTH IN DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

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 the historic 16th Street Baptist Church. The park served as a staging area for demonstrations in the early 1960s, including those in which police dogs and fire hoses were turned on marchers. Images of the 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.

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER(P) 205.714.8300 200 19TH ST N MCWANE.ORG

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, 9am – 5pm; Saturday, 10am – 6pm; Sunday, noon – 6pm. June – August: Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm; Sunday, noon – 6pm. Admission.


MERCEDES-BENZ US INTERNATIONAL VISITOR CENTER (P) 205.507.2252 11 MERCEDES DR VANCE, ALABAMA MBUSI.COM

Mercedes-Benz US International (MBUSI) in nearby Vance, builds the M-Class, the R-Class and the GL-Class vehicles. The visitor center, the first of its kind outside Germany, displays the star-studded history of Daimler- Benz. 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 visitor center moves people along a multimedia path through the past, present and future of automotive technology. Visitor Center open Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Admission for factory tours (available by reservation only).

OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK(P) 205.620.2520 200 TERRACE DR DCNR.STATE.AL.US

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 18-hole 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 accommodations also are available within the park. Open every day, 7am – 5pm. Admission.

PEANUT DEPOT(P) 205.251.3314 2016 MORRIS AVE PEANUTDEPOT.COM

That tantalizing aroma wafting down historic Morris Avenue comes from peanuts toasting in antique roasters at the Peanut Depot. This is a must-see stop for visitors, if only to admire the magnificent old machinery while the children feed pigeons along the cobblestone streets. Open Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5:30 pm; Saturday, 9 am – 1 pm.


PEPPER PLACE SATURDAY MARKET(P) 205.802.2100 2829 2ND AVE S PEPPERPLACEMARKET.COM

The Pepper Place Saturday Market is a much anticipated weekly event, taking place Saturday mornings from early spring through late fall. The region’s farming families converge on a lot in the Lakeview District to sell fresh vegetables and flowers, fresh-baked breads, cakes, pies and even fresh honey. Local musicians and Birmingham’s finest chefs join the farming community and market patrons for entertainment and cooking demonstrations. A former Dr. Pepper bottling plant, Pepper Place is also known for its shops that have made it a premier design center. (Seasonal) April – December.

RICKWOOD FIELD(P) 205.458.8161 1137 2ND AVE W RICKWOOD.COM

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 carefully being 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, 8am – 5pm. Check events schedule for expanded hours.

SIXTEENTH STREET BAPTIST CHURCH NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK(P) 205.251.9402 1530 6TH AVE N 16THSTREETBAPTIST.ORG

The 16th 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, and 14-year-olds Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Addie Mae Collins. 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.

SLOSS FURNACES NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK(P) 205.324.1911 20 32ND ST N SLOSSFURNACES.COM

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 foundry man. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm; Sunday, noon – 4pm. Donations welcome.

SPLASH ADVENTURE WATERPARK(P) 205.481.4750 4599 ALABAMA ADVENTURE PKWY LOCATED OFF EXIT 110 AT I-459 & I-20 SPLASHADVENTUREWATERPARK.COM

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.


SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT(P) 205.833.8226 SOUTHERNMUSEUMOFFLIGHT.ORG

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.

TANNEHILL IRONWORKS HISTORICAL STATE PARK(P) 205.477.5711 12632 CONFEDERATE PKWY TANNEHILL.ORG

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.

VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM(P) 205.933.1409 1701 VALLEY VIEW DRIVE VISITVULCAN.COM

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 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. Museum open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm; Sunday,1pm–6pm. Observation balcony open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 10pm; Sunday, 1pm – 10pm. Admission.


SHOPPING

COLONIAL BROOKWOOD VILLAGESHADES CREEK PARKWAY (ALABAMA 149) BETWEEN U.S. 280 AND U.S. 31 SHOPBROOKWOODVILLAGE.COM

Conveniently located in Homewood right off Highway 280, shoppers find specialty stores and also larger retailers such as Macy’s, Belk and Books-A-Million. Colonial Brookwood Village also houses several particularly good restaurants. Garage and courtesy valet parking is available.

DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAMDOWNTOWNBIRMINGHAM.ORG

Investigating downtown shopping is an adventure in itself. Start out at BB’s China & Glassware (2427 1st Ave) where you’ll find an enticing assortment of dishes and glassware – some bearing the logos of defunct hotels from around the country – along with Fiestaware and seconds at good discounts. Walk over one block to 2nd Avenue North and you’ll find Charm (2329 2nd Ave), a delightful little boutique with new and vintage handmade jewelry, purses and scarves. Just across the street is Faith Skate Supply (2328 2nd Ave. No.) for skateboarding enthusiasts. Head up the street about half a block to What’s on Second (2306 2nd Ave. No.) for an eye-feast of vintage, antique and unusual items.

Move on to 20th Street to the historic Bon Ton Hatters and get your hat steam-cleaned while having best shoeshine in town. Just off 20th on Third Avenue North is a treasure trove of memories at Reed Books. Back over to 20th Street and south a few blocks is the Peanut Depot. Stop in for treats or just to see the beautiful old roasters that are still in use. Head farther south down 20th into historic Five Points South. A good photo background here is “The Storyteller,” a fountain designed by Birmingham native sculptor Frank Fleming. While in this district, stop in at Charlemagne Record Exchange, if only for the atmosphere and the personnel. Also check out McNolia’s Cards and Gifts for funky stuff and The Golden Temple, where herbal supplements are sold alongside Birkenstocks®.


DOWNTOWN HOMEWOOD18TH STREET (AND BEYOND), HOMEWOOD HOMEWOODCHAMBER.ORG

Old-style shopping along one main street in the Birmingham suburb of Homewood includes upscale clothing shops, home decorating stores and nationally acknowledged high-end antiques galleries. A stop by Savage’s Bakery, a local landmark, is a necessity. The new Soho Square includes an interesting mix of boutiques and restaurants at sidewalk level below residential lofts.

ENGLISH VILLAGE, MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE AND CRESTLINE VILLAGEIn the heart of the suburb of Mountain Brook, these three distinct shopping areas are linked by tree-lined sidewalks. English Village has restaurants, coffee houses and garden shops. Mountain Brook Village has funky art shops, high-end boutiques and home furnishing stores. (Don’t miss a stroll through Smith’s Variety for a variety of toys and candy bins.) Crestline Village has a nice mix of restaurants and high fashion shops with special emphasis on children’s clothing.

PATTON CREEKBETWEEN I-459, THE RIVERCHASE GALLERIA, AND ALABAMA 150, HOOVER PATTONCREEK.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 such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Carmike Cinemas.

PEPPER PLACEFor a different sort of shopping experience and a clear departure from the mall scene, Pepper Place is your destination. This old Dr. Pepper syrup plant houses an eclectic mix of home furnishing shops, antiques and architectural stores. During the spring and summer months, tourists and residents alike flock to the Pepper Place Market, an outdoor farmers market with chef demonstrations every Saturday. Alongside the tomatoes, squash and peaches, shoppers find hand-crafted clothing, yard ornaments, honey, organic soaps, goat cheese and scones.

RIVERCHASE GALLERIAU.S. 31 AND ALABAMA 150 AT I-459 RIVERCHASEGALLERIA.COM

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 & Fitch – just a few samples of stores in this two-story city under glass. The complex also includes the Wynfrey Hotel.

THE SHOPS OF GRAND RIVERSHOPSOFGRANDRIVER.COM

Set against the picturesque landscape of the Cahaba River Valley, The Shops of Grand River is a brand new shopping destination. The distinctive outlet and specialty stores include Brooks Brothers, Gap Outlet, Jones New York Outlet, Bose, Polo Ralph Lauren, Coach, Carters, and Babies & Kids.


THE SUMMITAT I-459 AND U.S. 280 THESUMMITONLINE.COM

Whether you’re looking for a new outfit, the perfect accessory or an outstanding dining experience, The Summit offers a unique opportunity to find what truly suits you, with over 100 stores and restaurants. Its outdoor design and beautiful architectural detail play host to a number of shops that fit your taste and lifestyle. You may feel like just browsing or like wining and dining but we know that during a visit to The Summit you will shop in style.

TRUSSVILLE SHOPPINGThe booming suburb of Trussville includes three large shopping areas. Target, Books-A-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 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.

Dozens of other shopping centers are in the Birmingham area. For a complete listing, visit www.birmingham.travel.

http://www.birmingham.travel


PLAN A TOUR

When tour groups get down to Birmingham, they get down to the business of exploring the city’s personality. Among the themed tours are trips to sample the city’s locally produced snacks, real Southern dining and the influence of immigrants on the city’s cuisine. Other tours explore the diversity of Birmingham’s ethnic communities, reflected in the architecture and cultural events throughout the city. Plan a tour to visit the Eternal Word Television Network, founded by Mother Mary Angelica. Take in the historic sites from Birmingham’s tumultuous role in America’s Civil Rights Movement. Hear interesting tales from the city’s rowdy pioneer days. Visit the factory where the popular Mercedes-Benz M-Class is manufactured. Sample the art, outdoors, dining, sports and entertainment that bring tour groups back to Birmingham time and again.

(Sample itineraries include more locations than a full day of touring will accommodate. Let us help you customize your tour from these suggested destinations. Reservations are required and appreciated.)

GRITS, GREENS AND GREEKS: THE SOUTHERN FOODS TOURSPEND A DAY SAMPLING THE FLAVORS OF BIRMINGHAM.

Wake up the day with breakfast at Niki’s West, a Birmingham institution that serves up a heaping helping of Southern favorites: country ham, cheese grits, cathead biscuits with sawmill gravy and eggs – any way you like ‘em.

Walk off some of that fine meal at the Pepper Place Saturday Market. This seasonal spread of Southern foods is a delight to wander through. Farmers’ stalls are filled with peaches, peppers and tomatoes. Local chefs demonstrate their skills at outdoor kitchens. Live Southern music and the smell of fresh-cut flowers fill the air. Open Saturdays, 7 am - noon. Season begins in April and runs through December.

Begun in 1923, Golden Flake Foods is now among the largest snack food companies in the country. This popular tour takes visitors from the potato bin to the final packaging of a dozen different potato chips, corn curls and fried pork skins (loved in the South with a little hot sauce sprinkled on). And everyone gets to sample along the way.


Time now for lunch at The Irondale Café, the Original Whistle Stop Café of “Fried Green Tomatoes” fame. People come from all over the world for the restaurant’s Hollywood connection and for a good Southern meal of country fried steak, succotash, okra, cornbread, turnip greens, fried green tomatoes, banana pudding or black bottom pie and sweet tea.

Then learn about a whole new concept in cookies —the bite-size cookie—at Bud’s Best Cookies. Watch as the wire-cut and rotary cookies roll off the lines at a rate of 3,500 a minute.

Time for some grown-up touring at breweries and wineries in the area. The Alabama Wine Trail includes three locations on the outskirts of Birmingham: Ozan Vineyards and Winery, Vizzini Farms Winery and Morgan Creek Vineyards. These wineries welcome group tours to sample their bold muscadine and delicate peach wines, all made from local fruit. New breweries in the Birmingham area give groups a delightful assortment of flavors to sample on tours of their facilities. Among the breweries are Good People Brewing, Avondale Brewing and Cahaba Brewing Company.

If the group has saved room for supper, try the fresh Gulf oysters and Athenian snapper at The Fish Market. This Birmingham eatery is a good example of the Greek immigrant influence on Birmingham’s rocketing dining scene.

IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS: BIRMINGHAM AND THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENTA COMPREHENSIVE LOOK AT BIRMINGHAM’S MOST DIFFICULT AND TRIUMPHANT TIMES

Start the morning with a tour of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. The institute documents the rise of the Civil Rights Movement and the succession of events it bore around the nation: the 1955 arrest of Rosa Parks on a Montgomery bus; James Meredith’s 1962 admission to the University of Mississippi; the violence in 1963 in the streets and churches of Birmingham.

Across the street is Birmingham’s most famous Civil Rights landmark, the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. The church and the city drew worldwide attention on September 15, 1963, when Denice McNair, 11, Addie Mae Collins, Cynthia Wesley and Carole Robertson, all 14, were killed in a Ku Klux Klan bombing there. The tour includes an optional video that addresses the bombing.

Adjacent to the institute and the church is historic Kelly Ingram Park. The park served as a congregating area for demonstrations in the early 1960s, including the ones in which police dogs and fire hoses were turned on marchers by Birmingham police. Sculptures throughout the park depict the events of 1963. At the park entrance is a newly-installed, life-size sculpture that captures the spirited nature of the young girls killed when the bomb detonated.

Birmingham’s Civil Rights District also includes the nearby Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts. The museum honors jazz greats with ties to the state of Alabama, showcasing the accomplishments of the likes of Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington and Sun Ra. Just down the street is the Eddie Kendricks Memorial Park, honoring Birmingham native and Temptations lead singer Eddie Kendricks. The Kendricks statue captures for eternity the magic moves of his Motown music.

Other suggested places of interest along the Civil Rights tour are Miles College and Bethel Baptist Church. Opened in 1908 to provide training for African-American teachers and ministers, Miles continues to offer degrees in liberal


arts in a small co-educational setting. Civil Rights legend, the Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth, was pastor of Bethel Baptist Church from 1953 to 1961. The church served as a gathering place for discussions of civil rights among blacks. In the 1950s, while Shuttlesworth was pastor, the church and the parsonage were bombed on separate occasions. Remarkably, no one was injured in the attacks.

COME ALL YE FAITHFUL: THE BIRMINGHAM PILGRIMAGE TOURTHIS BIBLE BELT CITY IS RICH IN RELIGIOUS SITES.

Probably the best-known religious site in Birmingham is

EWTN, the Eternal Word Television Network, founded by Mother Mary Angelica in 1981. The world’s first Catholic cable network, EWTN broadcasts a great variety of programs to more than 230 million households in 140 countries. Also a vision of Mother Mary Angelica’s is Our Lady of the Angels Monastery Farm in nearby Cullman. Home to the Poor Clare nuns, the monastery includes 35 hand-crafted German stained glass windows and a 250-seat chapel.

Plan to have lunch at the Ave Maria Grotto built by Brother Joseph Zoetti, a Bavarian hunchback monk, who created this brilliant work over a period of 50 years. The grotto includes some of the world’s most famous religious sites in miniature; St. Peter’s Basilica and old Bethlehem are among the detailed structures crafted of tile, pipe, shells and even coconuts. “Brother Joseph and the Grotto” is a recently released documentary that tells the story of the tiny monk’s life work.

Back in Birmingham, afternoon tours are available at the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Paul, the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama. Designed by Chicago architect Adolphus Druiding, the Victorian Gothic building first served as a parish church and was elevated to Cathedral status in 1969. Tours include interesting stories of the murder of a parish priest and the tragic death of the cathedral’s contractor.

Second day pilgrimage tours might include a visit to Caritas of Birmingham, a community in Sterrett, just outside Birmingham. In 1988, 23-year-old Marija Pavlovic of the former Yugoslavia, now Bosnia-Herzegovina, arrived in Birmingham to donate a kidney for her brother’s transplant operation at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. No ordinary visitor, Pavlovic was one of six people from the tiny village of Medjugorje who claimed the Virgin Mary began appearing to them in 1981.

During her 53 days in Alabama, Pavlovic stayed with a friend in Sterrett and almost every day reported “visitations from the Virgin Mary.” Throngs of pilgrims from around the country descended on the tiny farm community hoping to catch a glimpse of the young woman. Pavlovic (now married with the last name Lunetti) returns to Birmingham generally once a year, and the fame of the small community of Sterrett has spread. Though the site and the claimed visitations are not recognized by the Catholic Church, a group of devout believers has developed a communal lifestyle around the reported holy visits. The alliance is called Caritas, Latin for love of all people. A huge stone and stained glass structure, the Tabernacle of Our Lady’s Messages, is the centerpiece of the community. Across the road, a statue of the Virgin Mary stands alone in a great open field. Residents and pilgrims gather there for prayers several times each day.

The trip back into Birmingham requires a meal at Lloyd’s on the Hwy. 280 return route. The spacious restaurant has been making diners happy since 1937 and continues to serve up good Southern cooking at reasonable prices.

STEEL AWAY: THE STORY OF BIRMINGHAM’S FAMED INDUSTRIAL DAYSIRON AND STEEL GAVE BIRTH TO THE SOUTH’S FOREMOST INDUSTRIAL CENTER.

Pig iron, which fed Birmingham’s foundries and steel mills, was the force that gave birth in the late 1800s to the South’s foremost industrial center. Though Birmingham today has an economy rooted in health care, the history of her famous iron and steel industry is fascinating. The story unfolds with a tour through the massive furnaces and smokestacks at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. When it ceased operation in 1971, the old iron-making complex became a city-operated museum, the only facility of its kind being preserved in the world today.

From Sloss Furnaces, the tour moves up the mountain to Vulcan Park and Museum. Vulcan is the largest statue ever cast in iron and is the city’s iconic and unofficial symbol. He is patterned after the mythical Roman god of the forge. In 1903, Alabama was invited to exhibit at the St. Louis World’s Fair. A group of Birmingham businessmen decided to create the largest iron statue in the world, a nod to the city’s powerful position in the iron and steel industry. After some unusual fundraising activities, Vulcan was cast from Birmingham iron ore at Birmingham Iron and Steel Company. The statue won the exposition’s


grand prize. Vulcan’s viewing platform offers the best panoramas of the city and surrounding areas.

All this history of heat and flames just naturally calls for some great open-pit barbeque. Steer the tour toward Jim ‘N Nick’s Community Bar-B-Q in historic Five Points South. Their award-winning meats are cooked low and slow with great attention to detail.

Then head out to find more history at Tannehill Historical State Park, the birthplace of Birmingham’s iron and steel industry and a major supplier of pig iron for Confederate forces during the Civil War. The Alabama Iron and Steel Museum is an interpretive center on 19th century iron making technology with belt-driven machines of the 1800s and tools and products of the times. From spring through fall, the blacksmith, miller and craftsmen demonstrate their skills. Craft shops occupy restored pioneer cabins, and the cotton gin, pioneer farm and working grist mill preserve a long-gone way of life.

A PATCHWORK QUILT: HIT THE HIGHLIGHTS OF BIRMINGHAM’S TOP ATTRACTIONSJUST TWO DAYS TO TOUR? HERE’S HOW TO SEE SOME OF EVERYTHING!

DAY #1:

Wake up the animals at The Birmingham Zoo! Orientation begins with a train ride around the grounds—all ages love this steam locomotive. See the Predator Zone, the Sea Lion Splash Show and the amazing Trails of Africa with the rare feature of having an all-male herd of African elephants.

Just across the street from the zoo, the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens blanket more than 67 acres, twenty-five themed areas include a massive conservatory, the Southern Wildflower Garden and the Japanese Garden with authentic teahouse. Make reservations to lunch at The Gardens Café where the menu of local ingredients changes seasonally.

It doesn’t take a motorsports enthusiast to appreciate the country’s most stunning collection of cars and motorcycles at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. The museum houses more than 1,200 vintage and modern motorcycles and an extensive collection of Lotus cars, along with other significant makes. And every vehicle in the museum is in working order.

A fine way to wrap up a day of touring is with a Birmingham Barons baseball game at the new Regions Field. The team plays in the Southern League and is the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The menu at the park goes far beyond peanuts and Crackerjacks with everything from “Magic City dogs” to Dreamland Bar-B-Q.

When it’s not baseball season, tours find grand evening entertainment with performances by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra or the Alabama Ballet. Especially popular with group tours are the Alabama Ballet’s seasonal performances of George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker.”


DAY #2:

Let’s make this an artsy kind of day with the first stop at the Birmingham Museum of Art. The museum holds a rich panorama of cultures, including Asian, European, African, Pre-Columbian and Native American. Highlights include the museum’s collection of Asian art, the collection of 18th century European decorative arts, and the museum’s world-renowned collection of Wedgwood. The museum also regularly hosts top-quality traveling exhibitions. This is a good place for lunch as well, with Oscar’s at the Museum serving sophisticated American cuisine.

Schedule your tour to coincide with one of Birmingham’s many art festivals. The Magic City Art Connection is highly regarded nationwide, and attracts painters, sculptors, potters and jewelry craftsmen from around the country for this three-day festival each spring. In the fall, Birmingham’s annual Art Walk transforms the downtown loft neighborhoods into art districts, with the work of more than 100 visual artists, live music, street performers and food and drink vendors.

Then check out the art of discovery at the McWane Science Center. A ball for all ages, McWane adventures include four floors of interactive exhibits, from a walk with dinosaurs to the shark and ray petting tank. Alternate attractions tours you might consider are visits to Aldridge Gardens, known for their spectacular hydrangeas, and the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, honoring legendary athletes with ties to the state.

Consider too an afternoon tour at the Mercedes-Benz US International Visitor Center in nearby Vance. The visitor center, the first one of its kind outside Germany, displays the star-studded history of these high-end vehicles. Factory tours are available by reservation and are well worth scheduling.


STUDENT FRIENDLY

ATTRACTIONS

ALABAMA JAZZ HALL OF FAME Erskine Hawkins, Nat King Cole, Lionel Hampton and other legendary greats are immortalized in the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, within the historic Carver Theatre.Approximate tour time: 1 hour

ALABAMA SPORTS HALL OF FAME From Paul Bear Bryant to Jesse Owens to Willie Mays, memorabilia and memories of Alabama’s sports heroes are enshrined at this Hall of Fame. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

ALABAMA THEATRE Built in 1927, the Alabama Theatre is one of the nation’s last operating movie palaces, featuring first-run and revised films, concerts and events.Approximate tour time: 1 hour

ALDRIDGE GARDENSAldridge gardens provides hands-on outdoor learning experiences designed to help students make a connection between what they have learned in books and what goes on in the environment around us. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

AMERICAN VILLAGEAt the American Village, costumed historical interpreters guide students on a trip back in time to rediscover the story of America’s journey for liberty and independence.Approximate tour time: 2 ½ hours

BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENSThe Gardens are Alabama’s largest living museum with more than 10,000 different plants in themed areas. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens also has the largest horticulture library in the U.S., conservatories, a wildflower garden, two rose gardens and Japanese Gardens with a traditionally crafted tea house. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE The Civil Rights Institute’s multimedia facility is known for its permanent gallery, a moving portrayal of America’s trek from the Civil Rights struggle to a racial progress. The permanent exhibition houses an extensive collection of artifacts and much more. Approximate tour time: 2 hours

BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART The Birmingham Museum of Art features an outstanding permanent collection of more than 18,000 works of art from many cultures, including European, American, Asian and African. The museum is also home to the largest museum collection of Wedgwood china. Approximate tour time: 2 hours

BUD’S BEST COOKIES Ever since owner Bud Cason was a 12-year-old boy working in his aunt’s bakery, he knew he wanted to own a cookie factory someday. Today, Bud’s Best Cookies facility can output more than 1 million cookies per hour in dozens of varieties – a feat that makes it the world’s most modern cookie factory. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

CAHABA PUMPING STATION The Cahaba Pump Station has been providing quality water services to Birmingham-area residents since 1887. Today, this historic set of structures is a learning center and a working museum. Several buildings have been renovated in keeping with their original design and house early tools, equipment, photographs and other artifacts. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

GOLDEN FLAKE POTATO CHIP FACTORY Try a tour of Golden Flake Snack Foods, the company that’s been in the business of creating the South’s crispiest chips since 1923. Your group will have a blast learning about the production process firsthand and sampling the South’s original potato chip. No appointments necessary, but groups of ten or more should call ahead to avoid a wait. Children must be five years old or older. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

JONES VALLEY URBAN TEACHING FARM At Jones Valley Teaching Farm, three acres of vacant downtown property are used to grow organic produce and flowers, as well as educate the community about healthy food. JVTF offers a monthly series of organic gardening classes and also conducts several educational programs for children and adults. Its Second Saturday Series welcomes the general public to learn about organic farming methods and fresh, local food. Visitors may also take a self-guided tour of JVTF’s demonstration farm downtown, which showcases sustainable farming methods. Please call ahead for an appointment. Approximate tour time:

45 minutes – 1 hour


KELLY INGRAM PARKDuring the 1960s, the park was used for organizing marches and uniting forces against racism. Sculptures in the park depict events instrumental in overturning legal segregation, such as attacks on the demonstrators, children jailed for protesting and the important role of the clergy. In sharp contrast to these scenes, paths along the Freedom Walk converge at a peaceful, reflective fountain.Approximate tour time: 1 hour

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTERThis is the largest combination IMAX Dome Theatre and interactive science center in our four-state region. People of all ages love exploring the museum’s creative, educational and hands-on exhibits. The World of Water exhibit showcases more than fifty species of marine and freshwater aquatic life. Approximate tour time: 2 hours

RED MOUNTAIN PARKRed Mountain Park is one of the largest urban parks in America. The park has more than 10 miles of trails and 1,200 acres are open to the public seven days a week. The park also has a universal access zip line canopy tour, 10 foot platforms connected by zip lines running from 10 to 350 feet long. Once the site for mining iron ore, the park is now home to natural beauty and relics from its past mining days. For its newest outdoor adventure, the Hugh Kaul Beanstalk Forest features a treetop challenge course with 20 unique ropes course obstacles. Students will enjoy traversing bridges, climbing walls, swinging on ropes and zipping their way from tree house to tree house. Approximate tour time: 3-4 hours

RICKWOOD FIELDBuilt 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. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

RUFFNER MOUNTAIN PARKJust ten minutes from downtown, this 1,011-acre nature preserve is a quiet getaway for nature lovers. Easy to moderate hiking trails lead through a Southern upland forest with its diversity of plant and animal life including resident and migratory birds. Find a spectacular view at Hawk’s View overlook. Beautiful spring wildflowers and autumn color highlight the seasons. The new Visitors Center offers lessons in nature and the environment and has exhibits including raptors, turtles and other native Alabama wildlife. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

SIXTEENTH STREET BAPTIST CHURCHAcross the avenue from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute stands the city’s most famous Civil Rights landmark, the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. The church often served as a meeting and rallying place for leaders and participants in the Movement. On a Sunday morning, September 15, 1963, Ku Klux Klansmen bombed the church, killing four little girls preparing for morning worship. The horrific event brought world condemnation of Birmingham’s racial violence. Today the thriving church opens its doors to visitors for Sunday morning worship at 11:00am. Approximate tour time: 1 hour

SLOSS FURNACES NATIONAL LANDMARK This 32-acre blast furnace made iron for nearly 100 years. Now a museum of history and industry, the site preserves an extraordinary collection of buildings, industrial structures and machinery that 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 that has been preserved as a museum. Approximate tour time: 1.5 hours

SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT At the Southern Museum of Flight, your group can explore several exhibits featuring military aviation memorabilia. Relive the story of Alabama’s famed Tuskegee Airmen through a unique diorama exhibit, or get up close and personal with two fighter jets from the Korean War. Students can also see the Lake Murray B-25, an aircraft that was recovered in 2005 after 62 years in the depths of Lake Murray, South Carolina, which was home to the Air Force training site Bomb Island during World War II. Approximate tour time: 1.5 hours


SPLASH ADVENTURESplash Adventure Water Park is Alabama’s only theme park nestled on 70 acres of rolling terrain in a beautiful wooded country setting. Splash Adventure offers a newly themed and designed Celebration Street, which features a variety of special events to celebrate holidays and seasonal happenings. The park has a 600,000-gallon wave pool that generates four-foot high waves and has a sand beach. An eight-story high, free-fall, dropout speed ride rounds out the new water park. The park includes three catered pavilions with a seating capacity of 200 people each.

TANNEHILL IRONWORKSJourney back to the days of the Civil War at Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. This 1,500-acre state park features historical buildings such as the May Plantation Cotton Gin House, the John Wesley Hall Gristmall and the old Tannehill Iron Furnaces, which is one of the most well-preserved Civil War era ironworks in the nation. The park’s on-site museum is filled with artifacts and exhibits that demonstrate how iron was made during the Civil War. Approximate tour time: 2 hours

VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUMVulcan Park and Museum is home to the world’s largest cast iron statue and features spectacular panoramic views of Birmingham. Located atop Red Mountain, this landmark tells the story of Birmingham’s past, present and promise for the future. Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge, was built as Birmingham’s entry in the 1904 World’s Fair. A 10-acre urban green space surrounds the 56’ high statue and observation balcony that sits upon a 124’ pedestal. The Vulcan Center also features interactive exhibits with information on the region’s industrial history and growth. Approximate tour time: 1.5 hours


WHERE TO STAY

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CAPACITY OF LARGEST BANQUET ROOM


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122 ROOMS:

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT BHM DOWNTOWN/UAB1820 5TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35233-1809 MARRIOTT.COM

122 ROOMS:

COUNTRY INN & SUITES HOMEWOOD485 WILDWOOD CIRCLE NORTH HOMEWOOD 35209-7107 COUNTRYINNS.COM

70 ROOMS:

COUNTRY INN & SUITES BESSEMER4985 ACADEMY COURT BESSEMER 35022-5250 COUNTRYINNS.COM

66 ROOMS:

COMFORT INN HOMEWOOD226 SUMMIT PARKWAY HOMEWOOD 35209-4732 COMFORTINN.COM

115 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS



GREEN INITIATIVE



0 • •

0 • • •

125 • • • •

0 • •

28 • • • •

28 • • •

DAYS INN FULTONDALE616 DECATUR HIGHWAY FULTONDALE 35068-0476 DAYSINN.COM

74 ROOMS:

DAYS INN BIRMINGHAM/WEST905 11TH COURT WEST BIRMINGHAM 35242-5039 DAYSINN.COM

106 ROOMS:

DAYS INN BIRMINGHAM/VESTAVIA1485 MONTGOMERY HIGHWAY VESTAVIA HILLS 35216-3633 DAYSINN.COM

160 ROOMS:

DAYS INN BIRMINGHAM/SUMMIT MALL4627 US HIGHWAY 280 SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35242-5309 DAYSINNBIRMINGHAM.COM

102 ROOMS:

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT TRUSSVILLE3665 ROOSEVELT BOULEVARD BIRMINGHAM 35235-3193 MARRIOTT.COM

84 ROOMS:

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT HOOVER1824 MONTGOMERY HIGHWAY SOUTH HOOVER 35244-1208 MARRIOTT.COM

8 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS





0 • •

0 • •

30 • • • •

50 • • • •

475 • • •

0 • •

ECONO LODGE OXMOOR

195 OXMOOR ROAD HOMEWOOD 35209-5956 ECONOLODGE.COM

153 ROOMS:

ECONO LODGE1535 MONTGOMERY HIGHWAY HOOVER 35216-4595 ECONOLODGE.COM

34 ROOMS:

DRURY INN & SUITES SOUTHWEST160 STATE FARM PARKWAY BIRMINGHAM 35209-7186 DRURYHOTELS.COM

139 ROOMS:

DRURY INN & SUITES BIRMINGHAM SOUTHEAST3510 GRANDVIEW PARKWAY BIRMINGHAM 35243-1929 DRURYHOTELS.COM

151 ROOMS:

DOUBLETREE HOTEL BIRMINGHAM808 20TH STREET SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35205-2795 DOUBLETREE3.HILTON.COM

298 ROOMS:

DAYS INN GALLERIA1800 RIVERCHASE DRIVE HOOVER 35244-1008 DAYSINN.COM

138 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS



GREEN INITIATIVE



70 • • • •

0 • •

0 •

744 • • •

300 • • •

0 • •

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES BHM/FULTONDALE/I-651795 MORRIS AVENUE FULTONDALE 35068-1675 MARRIOTT.COM

75 ROOMS:

EXTENDED STAY AMERICA WILDWOOD40 STATE FARM PARKWAY HOMEWOOD 35209-7179 EXTENDEDSTAYAMERICA.COM

72 ROOMS:

EXTENDED STAY AMERICA PERIMETER PARK SOUTH12 PERIMETER PARK SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35243-2326 EXTENDEDSTAYAMERICA.COM

137 ROOMS:

EMBASSY SUITES BIRMINGHAM/HOOVERJOHN HAWKINS PARKWAY HOOVER 35244-1087 EMBASSYSUITES3.HILTON.COM

208 ROOMS:

EMBASSY SUITES BIRMINGHAM2300 WOODCREST PLACE BIRMINGHAM 35209-1304 EMBASSYSUITES3.HILTON.COM

242 ROOMS:

ECONOMY INN1113 9TH AVENUE SOUTHWEST BESSEMER 35022-4529 120

ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS





0 • •

100 • • • •

40 • • •

0 •

0 • • •

40 • •

GRAND BOHEMIAN HOTEL MOUNTAIN BROOK OPEN EARLY 2015

2655 LANE PARK ROAD BIRMINGHAM 35233 KESSLERCOLLECTION.COM

100 ROOMS:

HAMPTON INN BESSEMER4910 CIVIC LANE BESSEMER 35022-7820 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

84 ROOMS:

HAMPTON INN & SUITES HOOVER - GALLERIA4520 GALLERIA BOULEVARD BIRMINGHAM 35244-5304 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

102 ROOMS:

HAMPTON INN & SUITES BIRMINGHAM EAST/I-203910 GRANTS MILL ROAD IRONDALE 35210-1204 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

99 ROOMS:

FAIRFIELD INN BIRMINGHAM INVERNESS707 KEY DRIVE BIRMINGHAM 35242-4880 MARRIOTT.COM

63 ROOMS:

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES BIRMINGHAM/BESSEMER4980 ACADEMY COURT BESSEMER 35022-5471 MARRIOTT.COM

76 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS



GREEN INITIATIVE



32 • • • •

0 • •

15 • • •

40 • •

0 • • •

0 • • •

HAMPTON INN TRUSSVILLE1940 EDWARDS LAKE ROAD BIRMINGHAM 35235-3716 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

78 ROOMS:

HAMPTON INN MOUNTAIN BROOK2731 HIGHWAY 280 SOUTH MOUNTAIN BROOK 35223-2405 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

130 ROOMS:

HAMPTON INN LEEDS310 REX LAKE ROAD LEEDS 35094-3421 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

105 ROOMS:

HAMPTON INN I-65/LAKESHORE DRIVE30 STATE FARM PARKWAY HOMEWOOD 35209-7179 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

97 ROOMS:

HAMPTON INN FULTONDALE1716 FULTON ROAD FULTONDALE 35068-1669 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

65 ROOMS:

HAMPTON INN COLONNADE3400 COLONNADE PARKWAY BIRMINGHAM 35243-2355 HAMPTONINN.HILTON.COM

133 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS





0 •

85 • • •

160 • • •

60 • •

320 • • • •

0 • •

HIWAY HOST MOTEL4301 BESSEMER SUPER HIGHWAY BESSEMER 35020-2494 35

ROOMS:

HILTON GARDEN INN LIBERTY PARK2090 URBAN CENTER PARKWAY VESTAVIA 35242-2537 HILTONGARDENINN.COM

130 ROOMS:

HILTON GARDEN INN BIRMINGHAM/TRUSSVILLE3230 EDWARDS LAKE PARKWAY BIRMINGHAM 35235-3198 HILTONGARDENINN.COM

104 ROOMS:

HILTON GARDEN INN BIRMINGHAM/LAKESHORE520 WILDWOOD CIRCLE NORTH BIRMINGHAM 35209-7199 HILTONGARDENINN.COM

95 ROOMS:

HILTON BIRMINGHAM PERIMETER PARK8 PERIMETER PARK SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35243-2326 HILTON.COM

204 ROOMS:

HASSINGER DANIELS MANSION BED & BREAKFAST2028 HIGHLAND AVENUE BIRMINGHAM 35205-3802

10 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS



GREEN INITIATIVE



75 • • •

0 • • •

30 • •

60 • •

100 • • •

180 • • •

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS IRONDALE811 OLD GRANTS MILL ROAD IRONDALE 35210-1233 HOLIDAYINNEXPRESS.COM

100 ROOMS:

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES INVERNESS156 RESOURCE CENTER PARKWAY BIRMINGHAM 35242-8095 HOLIDAYINNEXPRESS.COM

96 ROOMS:

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES BESSEMER5001 ACADEMY DRIVE BESSEMER 35022-5250 HOLIDAYINNEXPRESS.COM

63 ROOMS:

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS FULTONDALE1733 FULTON ROAD FULTONDALE 35068-1669 HOLIDAYINNEXPRESS.COM

67 ROOMS:

HOLIDAY INN BIRMINGHAM HOMEWOOD492 WILDWOOD CIRCLE NORTH HOMEWOOD 35209-0132 HOLIDAYINN.COM

108 ROOMS:

HOLIDAY INN AIRPORT5000 RICHARD JR ARRINGTON BLVD N BIRMINGHAM 35212-1497 HOLIDAYINN.COM

220 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS





0 • •

0 •

0 • •

0 •

80 • • •

0 • •

HOTEL HIGHLAND AT FIVE POINTS SOUTH1023 20TH STREET SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35205-2622 THEHOTELHIGHLAND.COM

63 ROOMS:

HOSPITALITY INN2127 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35233-3105 50

ROOMS:

HOMEWOOD SUITES OPENING FALL 2014

1016 20TH STREET SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35205-2606

104 ROOMS:

HOMEWOOD LODGE103 GREENSPRINGS HIGHWAY BIRMINGHAM 35209-4903 48

ROOMS:

HOLIDAY INN HOOVER2901 JOHN HAWKINS PARKWAY HOOVER 35244-1095 HOLIDAYINN.COM

112 ROOMS:

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS TRUSSVILLE5911 VALLEY ROAD TRUSSVILLE 35173-1071 HOLIDAYINNEXPRESS.COM

64 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS



GREEN INITIATIVE



0 • •

0 •

0 •

800 • • • •

60 • • •

100 • •

KINGS INN CIVIC CENTER - UAB1313 3RD AVENUE NORTH BIRMINGHAM 35203-1730

147 ROOMS:

INTOWN SUITES BIRMINGHAM NORTH1100 HUFFMAN ROAD BIRMINGHAM 35215-7502 INTOWNSUITES.COM

137 ROOMS:

INTOWN SUITES BIRMINGHAM CENTRAL90 OXMOOR ROAD BIRMINGHAM 35209-6410 INTOWNSUITES.COM

150 ROOMS:

HYATT REGENCY BIRMINGHAM THE WYNFREY HOTEL1000 RIVERCHASE GALLERIA BIRMINGHAM 35244-2399 HYATTREGENCY.COM

329 ROOMS:

HYATT PLACE BIRMINGHAM/HOOVER2980 JOHN HAWKINS PARKWAY HOOVER 35244-1087 HYATTPLACE.COM

128 ROOMS:

HOWARD JOHNSON INN BIRMINGHAM275 OXMOOR ROAD BIRMINGHAM 35209-4705 HOJO.COM

100 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS





0 • •

35 • • • •

0 • • • •

10 • • • •

0 • • •

0 • •

MICROTEL INN & SUITES HOOVER500 JACKSON DRIVE HOOVER 35244-1031 MICROTELINN.COM

59 ROOMS:

MICROTEL INN & SUITES GARDENDALE850 ODUM ROAD GARDENDALE 35071-4618 MICROTELINN.COM

81 ROOMS:

LA QUINTA INN & SUITES FULTONDALE1207 BOOTS BOULEVARD FULTONDALE 35068-1697 LQ.COM

66 ROOMS:

LA QUINTA INN & SUITES BIRMINGHAM/HOMEWOOD60 STATE FARM PARKWAY HOMEWOOD 35209-7179 LQ.COM

129 ROOMS:

LA QUINTA INN & SUITES BHM/CAHABA PARK SOUTH513 CAHABA PARK CIRCLE BIRMINGHAM 35242-5011 LQ.COM

99 ROOMS:

KNIGHTS INN BESSEMMER1121 9TH AVENUE SOUTHWEST BESSEMER 35022-7802 KNIGHTSINN.COM

140 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS



GREEN INITIATIVE



0 • •

25 • •

0 • •

0 •

0 •

0 • •

QUALITY INN IRONDALE3910 KILGORE MEMORIAL DRIVE IRONDALE 35210-1204 QUALITYINN.COM

70 ROOMS:

QUALITY INN HOMEWOOD155 VULCAN ROAD HOMEWOOD 35209-4701 QUALITYINN.COM

132 ROOMS:

QUALITY INN BESSEMER

5021 ACADEMY LANE BESSEMER 35022-5250 QUALITYINN.COM

60 ROOMS:

MOTEL 8 INN 5009 1ST AVENUE NORTH BIRMINGHAM 35212-3101 40

ROOMS:

MOTEL 6 BIRMINGHAM

151 VULCAN ROAD BIRMINGHAM 35209-4701 MOTEL6.COM

96 ROOMS:

MOTEL 6 BESSEMER1000 SHILOH LANE BESSEMER 35022-4596 MOTEL6.COM

121 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS





0 • • •

30 • • •

600 • • • • • •

0 •

80 •

0 • •

RESIDENCE INN HOMEWOOD50 STATE FARM PARKWAY HOMEWOOD 35209-7179 MARRIOTT.COM

120 ROOMS:

RESIDENCE INN BIRMINGHAM DOWNTOWN @ UAB821 20TH STREET SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35205-2713 MARRIOTT.COM

129 ROOMS:

RENAISSANCE ROSS BRIDGE GOLF RESORT & SPA4000 GRAND AVENUE BIRMINGHAM 35226-6201 ROSSBRIDGERESORT.COM

258 ROOMS:

RELAX INN6101 1ST AVENUE NORTH BIRMINGHAM 35212-1611 38

ROOMS:

THE REDMONT HOTEL2101 5TH AVENUE NORTH BIRMINGHAM 35203-3305 THEREDMONT.COM

114 ROOMS:

QUALITY INN TRUSSVILLE4730 NORREL DRIVE TRUSSVILLE 35173-2634 QUALITYINN.COM

60 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS



GREEN INITIATIVE



0 • •

0 •

0 • •

2080 • • • •

150 • • •

0 • •

SLEEP INN BESSEMER1259 GREENMOR DRIVE BESSEMER 35022-6437 SLEEPINN.COM

73 ROOMS:

SKY INN6000 1ST AVENUE NORTH BIRMINGHAM 35212-1610 30

ROOMS:

SIESTA MOTEL2510 CRESTWOOD BOULEVARD BIRMINGHAM 35210-2094 99

ROOMS:

SHERATON BIRMINGHAM HOTEL2101 RICHARD ARRINGTON JR BLVD N BIRMINGHAM 35203-1101 SHERATON.COM

757 ROOMS:

RIME GARDEN INN & SUITES5320 BEACON DRIVE BIRMINGHAM 35210-2820 RIMEHOTEL.COM

120 ROOMS:

RESIDENCE INN HOOVER2725 JOHN HAWKINS PARKWAY HOOVER 35244-4004 MARRIOTT.COM

118 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS





0 • •

0 •

0 • •

70 • • • •

30 • • • •

0 •

SUN SUITES OF BIRMINGHAM424 COMMONS DRIVE HOMEWOOD 35209-6963 SUNSUITES.COM

135 ROOMS:

SUN INN1573 BESSEMER ROAD BIRMINGHAM 35208-4094 33

ROOMS:

STUDIOPLUS DELUXE STUDIOS BIRMINGHAM/INVERNESS101 CAHABA PARK CIRCLE BIRMINGHAM 35242-5001 STUDIOPLUS.COM

77 ROOMS:

SPRINGHILL SUITES BIRMINGHAM DOWNTOWN2024 4TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM 35233-2046 MARRIOTT.COM

147 ROOMS:

SPRINGHILL SUITES BIRMINGHAM COLONNADE3950 COLONNADE PARKWAY BIRMINGHAM 35243-2382 MARRIOTT.COM

120 ROOMS:

SOUTHERN COMFORT MOTEL725 3RD AVENUE WEST BIRMINGHAM 35204-4018 25

ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS



GREEN INITIATIVE



0 •

120 • •

0 •

0 •

0 •

0 •

USA ECONOMY LODGE HOMEWOOD400 BEACON PARKWAY WEST BIRMINGHAM 35209-3106 USAECONOMYHOTELS.COM

190 ROOMS:

TUTWILER HOTEL HAMPTON INN & SUITES2021 PARK PLACE BIRMINGHAM 35203-2717 THETUTWILERHOTEL.COM

149 ROOMS:

TRAVELERS REST MOTEL1066 FORESTDALE BOULEVARD FORESTDALE 35214-3856 33

ROOMS:

TOWNEPLACE SUITES BY MARRIOTT HOMEWOOD500 WILDWOOD CIRCLE NORTH HOMEWOOD 35209-7199 TOWNEPLACESUITES.COM

128 ROOMS:

TOURWAY INN1101 6TH AVENUE NORTH BIRMINGHAM 35203-1503 TOURWAYINN.COM

70 ROOMS:

SUPER 8 HOMEWOOD BIRMINGHAM AREA140 VULCAN ROAD BIRMINGHAM 35209-4702 SUPER8.COM

95 ROOMS:

INDOOR SWIMMING

OUTDOOR SWIMMING

TENNIS COURTS





300 • • • •

0 •

0 • •

USA ECONOMY LODGE IRONDALE7941 CRESTWOOD BOULEVARD BIRMINGHAM 35210-2697 USAECONOMYHOTELS.COM

206 ROOMS:

VALUE PLACE HOTEL5535 ACADEMY DRIVE BESSEMER 35022-8501 VALUEPLACE.COM

124 ROOMS:

THE WESTIN BIRMINGHAM2221 RICHARD ARRINGTON JR BLVD N BIRMINGHAM 35203 THEWESTINHOTEL.COM

294 ROOMS:


WHERE TO EAT


BESSEMER/WEST

BOB SYKES BARBEQUE(P) 205.426.1400 1724 9th Ave N Bessemer bobsykes.com

THE BRIGHT STAR(P) 205.424.9444 304 19th St N Bessemer thebrightstar.com

HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL(P) 205.438.1558 4863 Promenade Pkwy Bessemer

LENA’S OLE HICKORY RESTAURANT(P) 205.781.7837 3103-Ensley Five Points W Ave Birmingham

KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS(P) 205.923.2016 3103-Ensley 96 Weibel Dr Birmingham krispykreme.com

NIKI’S WEST(P) 205.252.5751 233 Finley Ave W Birmingham nikiswest.com

SMOKEHOUSE STEAK & SEAFOOD(P) 205.323.6427 or 205.328.2247 348 Finley Ave W Birmingham

DOWNTOWN/SOUTHSIDE

BETTOLA(P) 205.731.6499 2901 2nd Ave S Suite 150 Birmingham bettolarestaurant.com

BOGUE’S(P) 205.254.9780 3028 Clairmont Ave Birmingham

BRICK & TIN(P) 205.297.8636 214 20th St N Birmingham brickandtin.com

CANTINA TORTILLA GRILL (PEPPER PLACE) (P) 205.323.6980 2901 2nd Ave S Suite 110 Birmingham cantinatortillagrill.com

DREAMLAND BAR-B-QUE(P) 205.933.2133 1427 14th Ave S Birmingham dreamlandbbq.com

FISH MARKET RESTAURANT (SOUTHSIDE)(P) 205.322.3330 612 22nd St S Birmingham thefishmarket.net

JIM ‘N NICK’S BAR-B-Q (FIVE POINTS SOUTH)(P) 205.320.1060 1908 11th Ave S Birmingham jimnnicks.com

JOHN’S CITY DINER(P) 205.322.6014 112 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Birmingham johnscitydiner.com

OCEAN(P) 205.933.0999 1218 20th St S Birmingham oceanbirmingham.com

ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE (P) 205.933.8837 1931 11th Ave S Birmingham originalpancakehouse.com

OSCAR’S AT THE MUSEUM (P) 205.254.2755 2000 Rev Abraham Woods Jr Blvd Birmingham oscarsatthemuseum.com

RIB-IT-UP(P) 205.328.7427 830 1st Ave N Birmingham ribitup.com

SILVERTRON CAFÉ (P) 205.591.3707 3813 Clairmont Ave S Birmingham silvertroncafe.us

SURIN WEST(P) 205.324.1928 1918 11th Ave S Birmingham surinwest.com

SWEET TEA RESTAURANT(P) 205-745-3990 2205 3rd Ave S Birmingham sweettearestaurant.com

THE SOUTHERN KITCHEN & BAR(P) 205.278.7270 2221 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Birmingham thesouthernbirmingham.com

TEXAS DE BRAZIL(P) 205.588.8333 2221 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Birmingham

TODD ENGLISH PUB (P) 205.307.3700 2221 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Birmingham toddenglishpub.com


EASTWOOD/

IRONDALE/LEEDS

IRONDALE CAFÉ (ORIGINAL WHISTLE STOP CAFÉ)(P) 205.956.5258 1906 1st Ave N Irondale irondalecafe.com

EL CAZADOR MEXICAN GRILL(P) 205.951.1205 1540 Montclair Rd Eastwood

GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE(P) 205.956.2678 2504 Crestwood Blvdt Eastwood goldenrulebbq.com

HAMBURGER HEAVEN(P) 205.951.3570 1703 Crestwood Blvd Eastwood hamburgerheaven restaurants.com

NEW CHINA BUFFET(P) 205.599.5558 7307 Crestwood Blvd Eastwood

SHANGRI-LA RESTAURANT(P) 205.951.3168 4500 Montevallo Rd Eastwood

HOMEWOOD/

MOUNTAIN BROOK/ INVERNESS

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ(P) 205.871.7849 2418 Montevallo Rd Mountain Brook

BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE(P) 205.879.9177 591 Brookwood Village Homewood

CHOP SUEY INN(P) 205.942.9782 813 Green Springs Hwy Homewood

COCINA SUPERIOR(P) 205.259.1980 587 Brookwood Village Birmingham thecocinasuperior.com

DAVENPORT’S PIZZA PALACE(P) 205.879.8603 2837 Cahaba Rd Mountain Brook davenportspizza.com

DAVE’S PIZZA(P) 205.871.3283 1819 29th Ave S Homewood

DEMETRI’S BAR-B-Q(P) 205.871.1581 1901 28th Ave S Homewood demetrisbbq.com

DODIYÓS(P) 205.453.9300 1831 28th Ave S Suite 110 Homewood dodiyos.com

FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE(P) 205.945.9997 337 Valley Ave Homewood

fullmoonbbq.com

JOE’S CRAB SHACK(P) 205.981.2999 20 Meadow View Dr Inverness joescrabshack.com

LITTLE DONKEY TAQUERIA(P) 205.703.7000 2821 Central Ave Homewood thelittledonkey.com

LLOYD’S RESTAURANT(P) 205.991.5530 5301 Hwy 280 Inverness

MAX’S DELI(P) 205.968.7600 3431 Colonnade Pkwy Suite 400 Birmingham maxsdelionline.com

MELLOW MUSHROOM(P) 205.981.9914 920 Inverness Corners Inverness mellowmushroom.com

OVER EASY(P) 205.639.1910 358 Hollywood Blvd Homewood overeasybham.com

P.F. CHANG’S(P) 205.967.0040 233 Summit Blvd.Birmingham pfchangs.com

PHO QUE HUONG VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT(P) 205.942.5400 430 Green Springs Hwy Suite 15 Homewood yelp.com/biz/pho-que-huong-vietnamese-restaurant-birmingham

RED PEARL RESTAURANT(P) 205.945.9558 243 West Valley Ave Homewood superorientalmkt.com


ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL(P) 205.298.7998 241 Summit Blvd Birmingham macaronigrill.com

STEEL CITY POPS(P) 205.969.8770 2821 Central Ave Suite 109 Homewood steelcitypops.com

TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE (MOUNTAIN BROOK)(P) 205.870.0455 2737 Hwy 280 Suite 121 Mountain Brook tazikiscafe.com

URBAN COOKHOUSE (HOMEWOOD)(P) 205.879.0883 2846 18th St Homewood urbancookhouse.com

VINO(P) 205.870.8404 1930 Cahaba Rd Mountain Brook

vinobirmingham.com

HOOVER/VESTAVIA

ASIAN RIM SUSHI COMPANY(P) 205.490.1444 3419 Colonnade Pkwy Suite 100 Birmingham asianrim.com

BISTRO V(P) 205.823.1505 521 Montgomery Hwy Suite 113 Vestavia Hills bistro-v.com

BONEFISH GRILL(P) 205.985.9545 3430 Galleria Cr Hoover bonefishgrill.com

CAJUN STEAMER BAR AND GRILL (HOOVER)(P) 205.985.7785 180 Main St Suite 200 Hoover cajunsteamer.com

EL POBLANO(P) 205.823.0447 2499 Rocky Ridge Rd Vestavia

FISH MARKET RESTAURANT(P) 205.823.3474 1681 Montgomery Hwy Hoover fishmarketrestaurant.com

FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE(P) 205.822.6666 2000 Patton Chapel Rd Hoover fullmoonbbq.com

GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE(P) 205.823.7770 1571 Montgomery Hwy. Hoover goldenrulebbq.com

ICHIBAN JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE(P) 205.822.4646 620 Old Towne Rd Vestavia

J. ALEXANDER’S(P) 205.733.9995 3320 Galleria Cr Hooverjalexanders.com

JIM ‘N NICK’S BAR-B-Q(P) 205.733.1300 1810 Montgomery Hwy SHoover jimnnicks.com

KLINGLER’S EUROPEAN BAKERY & CAFÉ(P) 205.823.4560 621 Montgomery HwyVestavia birminghammenus.com/klinglers

KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS(P) 205.822.8272 1990 New Patton Chapel Rd Hooverkrispykreme.com

MISS MYRA’S PIT BARBECUE(P) 205.967.6004 3278 Cahaba Heights Rd Birmingham yelp.com/biz/miss-myras- pit-barb-q-Vestavia

SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE(P) 205.444.5750 Wynfrey Hotel-1000 Riverchase Galleria Hooverdonshula.com/shulas-steak- house-birmingham

SILVER COIN INDIAN GRILL(P) 205.823.9070 3321 Lorna RoadHooversilvercoinusa.com

SOL AZTECA(P) 205.979.4902 1360 Montgomery HwyVestavia


BIRMINGHAM AREA

INFORMATION


In Birmingham, we’re dedicated to providing you with the tools you need to ensure a safe, smooth trip for every member of your group. Filled with information on transportation, emergencies and the city itself, the following section is a resource designed to help you take care of every last detail.

TOURIST INFORMATION

DOWNTOWN TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER(P) 205.458.8000 2200 9th Avenue N

VULCAN PARK & MUSEUM TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER(P) 205.458.8000 1701 Valley View Dr

AIRPORT TOURIST INFORMATION CENTERBIRMINGHAM-SHUTTLESWORTHINTERNATIONAL AIRPORT(P) 205.458.8002 Lower Level

HELPFUL INFORMATION

AREA CODE: 205

ALTITUDE: 620 AVERAGE FT Ranging between 538 and 1,200

AREA: 3,358 SQUARE MI Metropolitan Statistical Area, Jefferson, Blount, St. Clair, Shelby and Walker counties.

POPULATION: Just over 1 million.

CHURCHES: More than 1,300 All major denominations

TELEVISION STATIONS: 7 commercials, 3 independents, 1 public educational and several cable stations.

RADIO STATIONS: 14 AM stations and 18 FM stations. Also, 1 Spanish language station.

NEWSPAPERS: One three days a week (The Birmingham News) plus weeklies and monthlies.

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU: (P) 205.458.8000 or 1.800.458.8085

LAWS TO KNOW: Use safety belts. Turn on headlights during rain.Drinking age: 21. Sunday liquor sales at package and grocery stores in the afternoon.

CAPS (CITY ACTION PARTNERS):(P) 205.251.0111 Got a flat? Lock your keys in the car? All the CAP services are available to anyone free of charge in the CAP Service Area, which is bounded to the north by 11th Ave N (to include the Civic Center) south to 5th Ave S, east to 22nd St and west to 16th St N & 18th St S, respectively. In addition CAPS also covers the RAILROAD PARK & CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA and the area around REGIONS FIELD during games.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU:(P) 205.558.2222

BIRMINGHAM-SHUTTLESWORTHINTERNATIONAL AIRPORT:(P) 205.595.0533

BIRMINGHAM BUSINESS ALLIANCE: (P) 205.324.2100

BIRMINGHAM JEFFERSON COUNTY TRANSIT AUTHORITY:Dart Trolley System Customer Information Center (routes & schedules) (P) 205.521.0101

TRAVELERS AID SOCIETY: (P) 205.322.5426

LIBRARY: (P) 205.226.3600

PARKS: (P) 205.254.2391, city (P) 1.800.252.7275, state

CHARTER COMPANIES

ADVENTURE BUS CHARTER & TOURS INC.(P) 205.648.2732 P.O. Box 1540 Sumiton adventurebuscharter.com

CAMELOT LIMOUSINE BUS CHARTERS & TOURS(P) 205.525.1721 1265 Earlie Oneal Rd Cropwell camelotcharters.com

CLINE TOURS INC.(P) 205.591.7555 3000 7th Ave N Birmingham clinetours.com/locations/ birmingham/

CRAWFORD & SONS LIMOUSINE TRANSPORTATION(P) 205.925.1391 4301 Crawford Ave Birmingham

EXCURSION UNLIMITED INC.(P) 205.324.8639 3500 4th St W Birmingham

NEW DIRECTION CHARTER CORP.(P) 205.668.1655 671 County Rd 724 Calera

NEW GENERATION CHARTER AND TOURS(P) 205.424.6928 1027 18th St N Bessemer

PRIDELINE TRANSPORTATION(P) 205.324.4024 1301 Shuttlesworth Dr Birmingham sts-transportation.com


R&B TRANSPORTATION(P) 205-966-7001 1906 Lakeland Trail Helena sts-transportation.com

SOUTHEASTERN MOTOR COACH INC.(P) 205.791.1966 P.O. Box 311085 Birmingham southeasternmotorcoach.com

SOUTHERN CHARTER COMPANY(P) 205.655.7777 P.O. Box 557 Trussville

THRASHER BROTHERS TRAILWAYS(P) 205.591.8811 P.O. Box 320068 Birmingham thrasherbrotherstours.com

VECTOR GROUP(P) 205.453.9304 3100 Lenora Rd Birmingham

WINDHAM’S TOURS INC.(P) 205.808.0833 3400 31st Pl N Birmingham

ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORTATION

BUZZ-A-BUS(P) 205.879.3438

CLASTRAN(P) 205.325.8787

FRESH AIR(P) 205.744.3829

J&B PASSENGER SERVICE(P) 205.781.5702

MAX VIP(P) 205.521.0101

SPECIAL NEEDS TRANSPORTATION(P) 205.821.3736

GROUND TRANSPORTATION

AIRPORT EXPRESS(P) 205.591.7770

AMERICAN CAB CO.(P) 205.322.2222

BIRMINGHAM DOOR TO DOOR(P) 205.591.5550

EXECUTIVE SHUTTLE NETWORK (ESHUTTLE)(P) 205.702.4566

R. C. AMERICAN CAB(P) 205.960.1114

YELLOW CAB(P) 205.222.2222

BUS REPAIRS

ADVENTURE BUS CHARTER AND TOURS(P) 205.648.2732 P.O. Box 1540 Sumiton 35148-1540

CAMELOT LIMOUSINE BUS CHARTERS & TOURS (P) 205.525.1721 or 205.337.3370 P.O. Box 391 Pell City 35125

CATERPILLAR RV CENTER / THOMPSON POWER SYSTEM(P) 205.849.4373 2258 Pinson Hwy Birmingham 35217 (CAT engines only)

CLINE TOURS(P) 205.591.7555 3000 7th Ave N Birmingham 35203

CUMMINS MID-SOUTH BIRMINGHAM (P) 205.841.0421 2200 Pinson Hwy Birmingham 35217 (do not service transmissions or replace tires)

HERITAGE COACH AND RV CENTER, LLC(P) 205.491.0083 101 Vulcan Park Rd Hueytown 35023

NEW GENERATION CHARTER-TOURS (P) 205.424.6928 1027 18th St N Bessemer 35020

RV SHOP(P) 205.497.1882 36 Commerce Ave Hueytown 35023

THRASHER BROTHERS(P) 205.591.8811 6400 1st Ave S Birmingham 35212

HOSPITAL AND EMERGENCY ROOMS

BIRMINGHAM VA MEDICAL CENTER(P) 205.933.8101 700 19th St S 35233

BROOKWOOD MEDICAL CENTER(P) 205.877.1000 2010 Brookwood Medical Center Dr 35209

CALLAHAN EYE FOUNDATION HOSPITAL(P) 205.502.6000 1720 University Blvd 35234

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF ALABAMA(P) 205.638.9100 1600 7th Ave S 35233

COOPER GREEN MERCY HOSPITAL(P) 205.930.3200 1515 6th Ave S 35205

PRINCETON BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER(P) 205.783.3000 701 Princeton Ave SW 35211


SHELBY BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER(P) 205.620.8100 1000 First St N 35007

ST. VINCENT’S HOSPITAL(P) 205.939.7000 810 St. Vincent’s Dr 35205

ST. VINCENT’S EAST(P) 205.838.3000 50 Medical Park E Dr 35235

TRINITY MEDICAL CENTER(P) 205.592.1000 800 Montclair Rd 35213

UAB HIGHLANDS HOSPITAL(P) 205.934.9999 1201 11th Ave S 35205

UAB MEDICAL CENTER WEST(P) 205.481.7000 U.S. Hwy 11 S 35022

UAB UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL (P) 205.934.4011 619 S 19th St 35233

VETERINARY EMERGENCY HOSPITALS

ALABAMA VETERINARY SPECIALISTS(P) 205.481.1001 3783 Pine Ln SE Professional Building 200 Bessemer 35022

EMERGENCY AND SPECIALTY ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER(P) 205.967.7389 or 205.251.5696 2864 Acton Rd 35216

PET VET ANIMAL HOSPITAL(P) 205.824.2077 2021 Kentucky Ave Birmingham 35216

FOR ANY EMERGENCY: CALL 911


MILEAGE GUIDEAtlanta to Birmingham

Biloxi to Birmingham

Houston (TX) to Birmingham

Louisville (KY) to Birmingham

Chicago to Birmingham

Knoxville to Birmingham

Memphis to Birmingham

Nashville to Birmingham

New Orleans to Birmingham

Miami to Birmingham

Cleveland (OH) to Birmingham

Greenville (SC) to Birmingham

Charlotte (NC) to Birmingham

Richmond (VA) to Birmingham

150

301

667

374

673

254

246

205

342

840

713

296

401

677.05

3

6

10.5

5.5

11

6

5

4

7

13

11

4.5

6

11

MILES DRIVE TIME (HOURS)

BIRMINGHAM

200 mi

400 mi

600 mi

New Orleans

Houston

Louisville

Chicago Cleveland

Miami

Charlotte

Greenville

Richmond

Knoxville

Atlanta

Biloxi

Nashville

Memphis



DID YOU KNOW?

With a metropolitan population of nearly 1 million people, Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama.

Should you have Birmingham pigeonholed as serving only barbeque and fried pies, just remember that the city is home to “the Oscars of dining” with James Beard Foundation winners and nominees.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s University Hospital is among the world’s top kidney transplant centers.

TIME magazine named Birmingham’s Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival among its Top 10 “Film Festivals for the Rest of Us.”

Birmingham’s Barber Motorsports Park houses the largest collection of vintage motorcycles in North America. The park is considered the “Augusta of Motorsports,” a name that refers to the quality of the world-class course that is home to the Porsche Driving Experience and the Kevin Schwantz Suzuki School.

With more than 1,000 acres for biking and hiking, Birmingham’s Ruffner Mountain is larger than New York City’s Central Park and is just a five-minute drive from downtown. Birmingham is a national leader in urban green spaces.

Birmingham’s role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s placed it “at the center of the most significant domestic drama of the 20th century….” A comprehensive Civil Rights Trail currently is near completion.

Vulcan, the mythical god of metalworking, is the largest cast iron statue in the world and is second in size only to the Statue of Liberty. The statue was Birmingham’s entry in the 1904 World’s Fair, where it won first place.

Southern Living, the nation’s most successful regional magazine, is published in Birmingham.

With 10,000 pieces, the Birmingham Museum of Art houses the largest collection of Wedgwood outside England.

With the opening of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail throughout the state, Alabama has been called “…one of America’s top 10 golf destinations.”

Birmingham is home to the nation’s oldest baseball park, Rickwood Field, which opened in 1910 and hosted baseball greats such as Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lorenzo “Piper” Davis, Willie Mays and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson.

Vonetta Flowers, the first African American to win a gold medal in the Winter Olympics (2002 – bobsledding), is a track coach at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Wine enthusiasts often are surprised to find vineyards and wineries in the greater Birmingham area. They also are eager to sample the bottled goodness found along the local Wine Trail, especially delicate peach wines made from local fruit.

Birmingham’s world-class musical talent has put the city in the national spotlight with two winners from the hit TV show “American Idol.” Ruben Studdard won in 2003 and Taylor Hicks came home with top honors in 2006. In between, Birmingham’s Bo Bice won first runner-up in the 2005 competition.

Birmingham was recently voted “America’s Bass Capital” by readers of BASSMASTER magazine. Anglers were challenged to submit their choice for the country’s best “big city bassin’.”

In recent years, Birmingham signed a deal with the Indy Racing League to bring all the exciting action of INDYCAR to the Barber Motorsports Park. Since 2010, the Grand Prix of Alabama has put Birmingham on the map as the only Deep South city on the North American Indy circuit.

Sloss Furnaces produced iron for nearly 90 years during the early days of the city’s emergence as an industrial giant. Today, it is a city-operated museum and recognized as a National Historic Landmark, and it is the only facility of its kind being preserved in the world. Many believe the furnaces are haunted by Theophilus Calvin Jowers, a foundry man who died a grisly death in a furnace accident.

The Alabama Theatre is a 1920s movie palace in the heart of downtown. The “Mighty Wurlitzer” pipe organ still rises from beneath the theatre floor for live accompaniment of silent movie screenings.

The Irondale Café, also known as The Original Whistle Stop Café, is a home-style cafeteria with strong Hollywood ties. The café, which inspired writer and actor Fannie Flagg’s successful novel Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café and hit movie, still feeds hungry folks every day of the week.

GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU • 800.458.8085 • INBIRMINGHAM.COM

TRAVEL PLANNERS GUIDE - Birmingham...From the boogie-woogie beginnings of Clarence “Pinetop” Smith to the velvet crooning of Nat King Cole, legendary jazz greats are immortalized

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