The Magic City has become an entertainment destination. Our restaurants were the first introduction to many outsiders looking to vacation in foodie cities, and people keep returning to experience the music, art, beverages, small businesses, and caring residents that make Birmingham so unique. The city (and surrounding areas) has now added Entertainment Districts to further liven up the atmosphere for those who visit and those who call Bham home. There are currently 4 options for Birminghamians to experience all the wonders of a designated area while comfortably holding an alcoholic drink of their choice, with more on the way. We take a look at each here.
Uptown
Uptown has long made its name known as one of Birmingham’s most entertaining sections of town, but recent renovations and the honor of becoming the city’s first official entertainment district have solidified this title. The new Progressive Stadium and renovated BJCC and Legacy Area join a great collection of top restaurants including Eugene’s Hot Chicken, Todd English P.U.B., Texas De Brazil, and Your Pie. Top Golf is a short walk away for some fun leisure time along with food and beverage as well.
Pepper Place
The next district to receive the coveted Entertainment District status in the Magic City was the famous Pepper Place district! This wonderful collection of shops and restaurants features Birmingham’s favorite outdoor farmers market on many Saturdays, and hosts some of the city’s most charming stores every day of the week. Magic City classics like Yellowhammer Creative and Left Hand Soap Company host community nights full of live music and vendors to add to the fun. Famous restaurants and bars like Hot and Hot, The Lumbar, Hop City, and Bettola add some great flavors to the mix.
5 Points South
If you want to get the quickest blend of every Birmingham experience blurred into one fun neighborhood, 5 Points South would be the place to go. The uniquely charming section of town received exciting news when it became the Magic City’s third entertainment district in 2020. Local favorite watering holes and eateries like Marty’s, Black Market, Hush, 3000, Unplugged, Iron City Pizza Co., T-Bones, and The Original Pancake House joins the world’s most fun shop in What’s On 2nd and the charming Renaissance Records to make for a very entertaining day out.
Avondale
The city’s newest entertainment district (for now) has long been growing as a central party area. On any given weekend night, multiple shows will be playing at Avondale Brewing, Saturn, the new Ghost Train’s nearby location, Firehouse, and now Munchies and an outdoor stage being built at Ferus on 41st. Some of the city’s best restaurants call the area home as well. Melt, Saw’s Soul Kitchen (which added an impressive bar area not too long ago), Post Office Pies, Taco Morro Loco, Ampersandwich, Becky’s Deli, and more are all ready to elevate your mood at a moment’s notice.
These four fun districts join other city favorites like Lakeview, Parkside, and the Loft District to ensure that Magic City visitors and residents have a wonderful night out at any moment of their choosing. The surrounding areas are growing in Entertainment Districts as well, with Homewood (Downtown), Mountain Brook (3 Designated areas), Helena (Old Town Helena), Trussville, and Pelham (Campus No. 124) have all received their own designations. Birmingham has plans for more designations on the way, with Roebuck, Ensley’s 5 Points West, and more all being mentioned as potential locations. Wherever you go to have fun, we’re glad you’re doing so in Birmingham.
