North Alabama is a beautiful place with so many exciting things to do, and Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association is an organization whose mission is to promote the region to everyone from locals to international visitors. AMLA, known on social media as Visit North Alabama, has created many trails to help visitors find their favorite thing (or things) to do!
North Alabama Waterfall Trail
North Alabama is called the “land of a thousand waterfalls,” and when you visit, you’ll know why. Because of the Tennessee River and its tributaries, waterfalls can be found all over the region, and Bankhead National Forest is home to the majority of these majestic falls throughout the forest. The Singin’ River Trio of waterfalls in the Shoals area can be found nestled deep in Cane Creek Canyon, Spring Park, and at TVA’s Wilson Dam. On the northeast side of the region, you’ll find two of the most visited waterfalls in our region: DeSoto Falls and Little River Falls. Both of these waterfalls are quite breathtaking when they’re at full flow. Noccalula Falls in Gadsden is gorgeous and steeped in rich Native American history. There’s also a trail you can hike that takes you behind this iconic waterfall.
North Alabama Craft Beer Trail
Go on a spirited adventure to visit the craft breweries in north Alabama! Craft breweries began popping up all over several years ago, and north Alabama is home to many award-winning family owned and operated breweries that are perfecting their craft. From Florence to Gadsden, these Alabama makers offer dozens of beers and wines unique to north Alabama. When you download or request a hard copy of the Craft Beer Trail and Wine Trail brochures and complete the passport in each, you’ll receive a free gift from AMLA.
North Alabama Wine Trail
When you think Alabama, chances are wine isn’t the first thing to come to mind, but North Alabama is home to a wide variety of wineries. North Alabama’s wineries are close enough to each other that you can visit several in a day and experience them all over a long weekend. They include Jules J. Berta in Albertville, Wills Creek Vineyards in Attalla, Maraella Winery in Hokes Bluff, White Oak Vineyards in Anniston, Fruithurst Winery in Fruithurst, and High Country Cellars in Heflin.
Every vineyard hosts wine tastings and has bottles available for purchase. Whether you’re packing a picnic and spending the day with that special someone, kicking back with good friends and even better wine, or developing your palate to impress your friends back home with new wine knowledge, there’s a world of adventure around every vine in North Alabama.
North Alabama Mural Trail
Discover North Alabama’s heritage, beauty, and love of the arts through more than 125 murals across 16 counties. Read about the artist and stories behind the murals and be sure to keep your cameras ready as every mural boasts a completely unique design and creative vision. Be sure to also tag #NorthALMurals in your selfies and pictures! Plus if you check-in at 25 sites, AMLA will send you a prize for participating.
North Alabama Agriculture Trail
Agriculture is so important to the north Alabama region, and AMLA celebrates that rich agricultural heritage that has sustained and will sustain us all for generations. The Agriculture Adventures Trail is a new trail that highlights the businesses, farms, or organizations that has an agriculturally-related product for sale or is an educational, entertainment, historical, cultural, or recreational activity conducted on a farm that allows or invites members of the general public to observe, participate in, or enjoy that activity.
So if fun is what you’re looking for, you’ll find it all over north Alabama…and AMLA can help you!
Looking for a night out on the town, a fun date night, or just drinks after work? Birmingham’s vibrant night life scene has a lot to choose from! Whether you like a cozy, quiet spot or rocking live music, you’ll have the time of your life in these amazing spots.
ABHI Eatery + Bar
Located in The Summit shopping complex just south of downtown Birmingham, ABHI Eatery + Bar is a locally-owned Asian Fusion restaurant created by Chef Abhi Sainju and his wife, Ainah. Chef Abhi gained experience in other locally-owned restaurants, honing his skills, spending years developing the menu for ABHI and opened in February 2017.
The food is inspired by Abhi’s upbringing in Nepal and his travels throughout the world exploring different techniques and flavors. Abhi first made his mark in Birmingham creating sushi with the freshest and most inventive ingredients available. His reputation as a perfectionist and his inventiveness created a near-cult following of locals and visitors, alike.
The menu at ABHI ranges from shareables like Momos (Abhi’s house-made dumplings—a house signature dish), beer battered eggplant, Kathmandu Fried Chicken (KFC) Lollipops, and sushi to noodle, ramen and curry bowls. The sheer number of bowls to choose from on the menu is mind-blowing and you will need to visit over and over again to try them all.
The bar isn’t anything to overlook either. An award-winning bartender is constantly preparing special concoctions to pair with various items on the menu. Craftily combining fresh fruit juices, nuts and spices to create the base for cocktails that are only available at ABHI.
Chef Abhi’s eye for perfection, color and balance transcend the kitchen to the modern yet warm décor of the dining room and bar. Black cloth covered tables are punctuated by bright orange napkins and warmly lit by candles. The marble-topped wooden bar is stocked with the highest quality spirits from all over the world. Visit ABHI today.
Avondale Brewing
It all began when a circus owner’s misfortune at a game of cards bestowed the city of Avondale with a great gift. His prize attraction, Miss Fancy the Elephant, would inadvertently become the city’s greatest spokesperson. Known as the Queen of Avondale, Miss Fancy performed a wonder of tricks at her home in Avondale Zoo. During prohibition, City Hall kept a special Miss Fancy reserve on hand at all time in order to treat her stomach aliment. When her stomach starting acting up, Mr. Todd would call the prohibition officers down to the zoo for a little hooch action.
Avondale Brewing’s Miss Fancy’s Tripel is a strong Belgian golden ale rich in flavor and alcohol. The use of malts, traditional hops, a proprietary yeast blend and Belgian candi sugar creates a very special beer named after a very special elephant. Miss Fancy’s Tripel is remarkably smooth and refreshing for such a high ABV beer. CAUTION! Miss Fancy’s Tripel is brewed for humans but strong enough for elephants.
Baja California Cantina & Grill
With outstanding reviews and consistently high praise from customers, Baja California Cantina and Grill in Hoover should be on the top of your list for the best Tex-Mex cuisine, delicious drinks with your favorite spirits and impeccable service.
Baja California Cantina and Grill is open seven days a week and conveniently located to all hotels in the Hoover, Vestavia Hills and Bessemer areas. Catch live music performances by following them on Facebook.
HOURS OF OPERATION:
Sunday – Wednesday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Thursday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The Filling Station
For more than forty years, the building which now houses The Filling Station Pizza Cafe & Bar in the Crestwood neighborhood of Birmingham, was a full-service gas station – the kind where they actually pumped your gas for you and cleaned your windshield.
Starting in 2015, the chef and his staff at The Filling Station now pump out a broad range of appetizers, handmade pizzas and calzones, pasta dishes and sandwiches that are sure to satisfy any craving you have. The old service bays are now filled with tables and a bar. Behind the bar is an intricate system of taps that deliver cold locally and internationally brewed beers without any temperature loss from the keg.
The Filling Station is perfect to visit anytime of the year, but when the weather is mild, the garage doors are open and patrons enjoy the expansive patio.
Sports fans appreciate the multitude of HDTV screens to keep them in tune with their favorite teams. In case you are the nostalgic type, there is even a vintage gas station pump—but the only fuel you get here now is the fantastic food, fine drinks and fun folks.
Birmingham District Brewing Company
Birmingham District is the name of the geologic formation containing plentiful supplies of iron ore, limestone, and coal, the ingredients needed to make steel. The discovery of these ingredients in 1865 led to the explosive growth of industry and population that made the city of Birmingham appear “as if by magic.” Birmingham has since been known as “The Magic City.”
There has been a bit of that magic over the last 10 years with the appearance of craft breweries in and around Birmingham. The area now has a reputation as a destination for quality craft breweries and none reflect the history, heart, and magic of the area better than Birmingham District Brewing Company.
At BDBC you will find world-class beers crafted by artisans in a variety of styles from pilsners, IPAs, and stouts to fruited sours. Great indoor and outdoor spaces, they have places to watch your favorite sports team, play a round of corn hole, or reserve a quiet spot for an informal business meeting.
If you can only visit one brewery while you are in town, do not miss Birmingham District Brewing Company.
Hours: Mon—Wed: 12p—10p; Thu—Fri: 12p-12a; Sat 11a—12a; Sun: 12p—8p.
Crestwood Tavern
Crestwood Tavern is your neighborhood bar in Birmingham bringing you traditional pub fare, delicious drinks, a backyard patio, and endless entertainment!
Photo courtesy of Crestwood Tavern.
Good People Brewing Company
In the South, when someone is genuine, honest, and caring, they’re called “good people.” That’s who Good People Brewing Company keeps in mind when they’re crafting beer—the kind of humble, caring, and respected folks they grew up with. That philosophy has carried over to how they designed their taproom and social spaces. The taproom and outdoor patios and terraces allow for beer-lovers, regardless of how many there in a group, to comfortably sit and enjoy great beer and engaging conversation. Great beer is meant to be set down on a tabletop and overshadowed by conversation, friends, family. And every glass is an invitation.
The vast indoor taproom features all of Good People’s mainstay brews and a rotation of seasonal and specialty brews only available on-site. Watch the magic happen in the brewery through the large windows while discovering your next favorite beers from the oldest and largest brewery in Alabama. Tours available.
Good People regularly hosts small and large events both private and public. A regular rotation of local food trucks keeps appetites satisfied. Book your next private or corporate event at Good People Brewing Company.
Hop City
With a commitment to carry every single bottle or canned choice available in Alabama, coupled with 60 constantly rotating taps for pints and growlers, Hop City is the go-to spot for all things beer. Sprinkle in an informed selection of over 1,000 wines and you have a grown-up version of Willy Wonka’s factory.
Magic City’s version of Hop City opened in September 2012. Hop City is one of the top ten beer retailers in the US, according to both Draft Magazine and Ratebeer.com. In addition, Beer Advocate has awarded their highest ranking for Hop City’s amazing service, knowledge and selection.
Swing by and enjoy a beer at the bar, browse the aisles for a favorite or a rarity, then fill a jug with a draft for that party this weekend. Ask for a recommendation – the team loves to talk beer and wine! Check the website for an event schedule including free weekly tastings and new beer launches.
hopcitybeer.com; 205-279-2337
2924 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233
Hours: Mon—Wed: 10a-9p; Thu—Sat: 10a-10p
Margaronas Cantina
Visit Margaronas Cantina in Homewood, Alabama. Serving traditional and authentic Mexican dishes, Margaronas Cantina has quickly become a stand-out among locals. The modern atmosphere pays tribute to Mexico with a heightened level of comfort and sophistication. Enjoy dining inside or out on the covered patio. The full bar offers the finest tequilas and all of your other favorite spirits. The owners and staff will greet you at the door and ensure your experience is the very best in Birmingham.
Located between Avondale and Crestwood off Crestwood Blvd., Mom’s Basement is laid-back, come-as-you-are, judgment-free space to drink, listen to great music from the DJ or live band. There’s plenty of free parking and plenty of characters to meet and enjoy. Be sure to bring a photo of your mom for the Wall of Fame. With a full bar, Mom’s Basement offers all the comforts of home with a few surprises. Bring your friends to the photo booth or hang out near it and share in the laughs and good times. Visiting Mom’s is like getting a warm hug and a slap on the hand all at the same time…ahhh, just like home.
Opens daily at 4 p.m. with Happy Hour til 7 p.m. Live Music often, a Pool Table and a Patio.
Oasis
Oasis is well-known for the amazing talent of professional musicians on their stage; some of whom have become household names like Taylor Hicks. With live music every night, an Oasis guest may find anything from full rock-and-roll bands to intimate singer-songwriters to funky duos
They also provide professional dart boards that are free to play and drink specials 7 days a week.
Pies & Pints
Pies & Pints, is best known for their excellent selection of handcrafted beers from artisanal breweries around the world, which can be enjoyed by the bottle or on tap, as well as an intimate list of ciders and wines from California, Spain, and Italy. Stop in for classic and specialty pizza pies, garden fresh salads, oven-toasted sandwiches and house-made desserts. Monday–Thursday: 11am–10pm Friday & Saturday: 11am–12am Sunday: 11am–9pm
Photo courtesy of Pies & Pints.
Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar
Near the end of the 19th century, Founder’s Station originally hosted a printing press company. In honor of the building’s history, Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar chose its name after the typographical character used to indicate a new paragraph or section of text. Established in late 2018, Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar specializes in premium craft cocktails and has rapidly become one of Birmingham’s most favored and most unique watering holes and casual gathering spots.
SideBar
SideBar is the hottest spot in the most thriving entertainment district of Birmingham. Whether you’re just starting the afternoon or burning the midnight oil, this is your haven. With their weatherproof patio, there is plenty of space to enjoy the open air or belly up to the bar in our inviting front room and bring your A-game to our dance room—complete with back patio and a bar of its own. Come play or watch a game of beach volleyball on the newly-built outdoor beach volleyball court—equipped with loads of outdoor seating and a fully stocked bar.
Happy Hour: 3-8 p.m. weekdays
Live Music Every Friday and Saturday
18 Beers on Tap
HDTVs inside and out.
Slice Pizza
Slice Pizza & Brew has become a Birmingham staple since it’s original location opened in the Lakeview District. Started by brothers, Jeff, Chris and Jason Bajalieh, Slice is as local as you can get, from the owners to the ingredients that go into every pizza to the beer on tap. Slice originated as a place not just to eat, but to hang out and has held true to this sentiment with the opening of the second Slice Pizza & Brew in Vestavia Hills across from Lifetime Fitness.
No matter who you are or where you’re from, you’ll love the food and atmosphere at this local favorite amongst the movers and shakers of Birmingham. Come enjoy the best pizza in Birmingham! For more information on Slice or their two locations, please visit slicebirmingham.com.
Slice Lakeview 725 29th Street S Birmingham, AL 35233 205.715.9300
Slice Vestavia 304 Timberlake Drive Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205.557.5423
SoHo Social
Soho Social is a community-based bar and grill centered around the needs and wants of Homewood, Alabama. They offer unique spins on American classics; familiar, yet fresh at the same time.
The menu ranges from salads, wings and latin-inspired dishes like empanadas and duck totchos to a wide variety of unique burgers, smoked hangar steak and fresh fish. Weekly specials include Monday Wine and Tacos and Tuesday Beers and Burgers with a special menu prepared specifically for those days.
Their focus on fantastic food, laid back, friendly and sincere service along with distinctive drinks with unique style has earned Soho Social top-of-list status for places to go for both locals and visitors.
The Refinery
Named one of Birmingham’s Most Attractive Bars, The Refinery is a place in downtown Birmingham where you can find flavorful food and delicious drinks.
Twin Peaks
Welcome to your mountain lodge getaway. Here at Twin Peaks, we offer everything you crave and more: hearty made-from-scratch comfort food, draft beer served at a teeth-chattering 29 degrees and all the best sports on TV shown on high-definition flat screens. All of this is served by our friendly and attentive Twin Peaks Girls, offering their signature “Girl Next Door” charisma and playful personalities to ensure that your adventure happens at the Peaks. We’re your Ultimate Sports Lodge – Game on!
Village Tavern Scratch Kitchen-Craft Bar
Village Tavern Scratch Kitchen-Craft Bar stands out for its passion and perfection of classic American cuisine. Be it for business lunches, gatherings or date night, Village Tavern is the place for all occasions. They are committed to providing the highest quality food, wine and service at an affordable price, while creating unforgettable dining experiences with exceptional hospitality.
Every day has something special to offer with deals like HALF PRICE WINE Wednesday, offering more than 60 wines by the glass on an award-winning wine list at half price, so you can enjoy a glass of your favorite wine or try something new. In addition to daily drink specials, check out the best happy hour and bar bites available Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, and brunch on the weekends, Village Tavern is the neighborhood gathering place for all. Outdoor dining available when weather permits.
Morris Avenue, known for its original cobblestone pavers, is a narrow, east-west avenue between 1st Avenue North and the Railroad Reservation. Because of its adjacency to railroad depots and services, it rapidly developed into an early commercial and warehouse district in Birmingham’s early days. The avenue is named for Josiah Morris, a banker and one of the initial shareholders in the Elyton Land Company.
By the late 1880s, Morris Avenue was lined with three and four-story brick warehouses from 21st to 25th Streets. The Louisville & Nashville Railroad claimed ownership of the section of Morris Avenue between 14th and 18th Streets, which had been used as a produce market and later for automobile parking.
Today, new businesses are taking up residence in the area to serve the booming loft-dwelling population. Alabama Peanut Company and Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar are our recommendations while you’re visiting the Magic City.
The century-old buildings and original cobblestone streets are popular backdrops for local photographers and movie companies from around the world.
Alabama Peanut Co.
One of America’s last surviving peanut merchants, Alabama Peanut Co. roasts and boils peanuts in the heart of Alabama’s Magic City. Utilizing antique roasters that are original to the peanut business that has occupied the space on historic Morris Avenue since 1907, they barrel roast fresh peanuts daily and ship them out within hours of their perfect roast.
Their roots are in the uniquely Southern art of boiling peanuts. They currently offer over fifteen flavors of boiled peanuts that are served up fresh daily. Shop their collection of Alabama Peanut Co. branded apparel that is available online and in the shop. All t-shirts are screen-printed in downtown Birmingham.
Follow them @alabamapeanut to find out where they might be popping up around town and to discover their boiled peanut flavors of the day.
Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar
Near the end of the 19th century, Founder’s Station originally hosted a printing press company. In honor of the building’s history, Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar chose its name after the typographical character used to indicate a new paragraph or section of text.
Established in late 2018, Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar specializes in premium craft cocktails and has rapidly become one of Birmingham’s most favored and most unique watering holes and casual gathering spots. Find out more in their online profile at excursionsgo.com.
Other notable stops along Morris Avenue
A brand new hotel, The Kelly, along with restaurants and shops including Carrigan’s Pub, famed wedding-maker Heidi Elnora Atelier, The Essential and Pizza Grace all invite you to explore this historic, yet modernized part of downtown Birmingham. Tell ’em EXCURSIONS sent you!
Craft beer became all the rage several years ago, and the Magic City has been fortunate to have several locally-owned and operated craft breweries that are brewing beer that is not only tasty but also pays homage to the city’s rich heritage. Check out these unique breweries and let us know which one is your favorite!
Avondale Brewing Company
It all began when a circus owner’s misfortune at a game of cards bestowed the city of Avondale with a great gift. His prize attraction, Miss Fancy the Elephant, would inadvertently become the city’s greatest spokesperson. Known as the Queen of Avondale, Miss Fancy performed a wonder of tricks at her home in Avondale Zoo. During prohibition, City Hall kept a special Miss Fancy reserve on hand at all times in order to treat her stomach ailment. When her stomach started acting up, Mr. Todd would call the prohibition officers down to the zoo for a little hooch action.
Miss Fancy’s Tripel is a strong Belgian golden ale rich in flavor and alcohol. The use of malts, traditional hops, a proprietary yeast blend, and Belgian Candi sugar creates a very special beer named after a very special elephant. Miss Fancy’s Tripel is remarkably smooth and refreshing for such a high ABV beer. CAUTION! Miss Fancy’s Tripel at Avondale Brewing Company is brewed for humans but strong enough for elephants.
Good People Brewing Company
In the South, when someone is genuine, honest, and caring, they’re called “good people.” That’s who Good People Brewing Company keeps in mind when they’re crafting beer—the kind of humble, caring, and respected folks they grew up with. That philosophy has carried over to how they designed their taproom and social spaces. The taproom and outdoor patios and terraces allow for beer-lovers, regardless of how many there in a group, to comfortably sit and enjoy great beer and engaging conversation. Great beer is meant to be set down on a tabletop and overshadowed by conversation, friends, family. And every glass is an invitation.
THE TAPROOM The vast indoor taproom features all of Good People’s mainstay brews and a rotation of seasonal and specialty brews only available on-site. Watch the magic happen in the brewery through the large windows while discovering your next favorite beers from the oldest and largest brewery in Alabama. Tours available.
SPECIAL EVENTS Good People regularly hosts small and large events both private and public. A regular rotation of local food trucks keeps appetites satisfied. Book your next private or corporate event at Good People Brewing Company.
Eric Meyer and Andy Gwaltney, friends with more than a common interest in craft beer and home brewing, came together to found a brewery to celebrate life’s passions and provide Birmingham with a broad selection of flavorful craft beers. With a love of the outdoors, they named the brewery after Alabama’s iconic Cahaba River. In the summer of 2011, they devised a plan to build a brewery and thus Cahaba Brewing Company was born.
Crafting excellent beer is their passion. Like the river itself, it is the source of the journey. They didn’t know what was around the bend, but this they did know—sitting on the bank was not an option. Now Eric and Andy are supplying Birmingham bars and restaurants with craft beers such as White IPA, Liquidambar, American Blonde, Ryezome Stout, Oka Uba IPA, and rotating seasonals. cahababrewing.com; 205-578-2616; 4500 5th Ave S, Bldg C, Birmingham, AL 35222; Taproom hours: Mon—Thu: 3p-10p; Fri—Sat: 12p-12a; Sun: 12p-8p
TrimTab Brewing Company
Birmingham welcomes its newest member to the local craft beer family, TrimTab Brewing Company. A trim tab is a small rudder on the larger rudder of a ship – an unassuming device that requires little effort to steer an ocean liner or airplane, no matter the size. Using that metaphor as a namesake, TrimTab Brewing is dedicated to three things: celebrating people that are small sources of large-scale change, crafting balanced beers, and having a lot of fun while they do it.
The brewery launched in 2014 after three long years of hard work transforming a 14,000 square foot car museum into a production brewery. With the combined efforts of brewers from some of the most respected breweries across the country, TrimTab Brewing showcases a wide portfolio of unique styles of beer ranging from their flagships TRIMTAB IPA and Pillar To Post Rye Brown, to seasonal favorites such as Cucumber Saison and Raspberry Berliner Weisse.
Their “Tasting Gallery,” part taproom, part art gallery, is dedicated to promoting regional artists whose work is continuously for sale. The space combines industrial and modern elements to create an atmosphere that is light, open, and inviting for enjoying their masterfully crafted brews year-round. trimtabbrewing.com 2721 5th Avenue S., Birmingham, AL 35233 Tasting Gallery hours: Tue—Thu: 4-10p; Fri: 4-11p; Sat: 1-11p; Sun: 1-10p
Birmingham District Brewing
Birmingham District is the name of the geologic formation containing plentiful supplies of iron ore, limestone, and coal, the ingredients needed to make steel. The discovery of these ingredients in 1865 led to the explosive growth of industry and population that made the city of Birmingham appear “as if by magic.” Birmingham has since been known as “The Magic City.”
There has been a bit of that magic over the last 10 years with the appearance of craft breweries in and around Birmingham. The area now has a reputation as a destination for quality craft breweries and none reflect the history, heart, and magic of the area better than Birmingham District Brewing Company.
At BDBC you will find world-class beers crafted by artisans in a variety of styles from pilsners, IPAs, and stouts to fruited sours. Great indoor and outdoor spaces, they have places to watch your favorite sports team, play a round of corn hole, or reserve a quiet spot for an informal business meeting.
Located at 2201 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham,BirminghamDistrictBrewing.com; 205-202-5779 Hours: Mon—Wed: 12p—10p; Thu—Fri: 12p-12a; Sat 11a—12a; Sun: 12p—8p.
Back Forty Beer Company
Come check out Birmingham’s newest craft brewery located at Sloss Docks, with dramatic views of historic Sloss Furnaces and a lively railroad scene from the tap room, porch and vast beer garden. Master Brewer, Tosh Brown, freshly brews popular core Back Forty beers (Naked Pig, Truck Stop Honey, Freckle Belly, Paw Paw’s, etc.) as well as a steady rotation of new experimental beers available only in the local market. Grab a pint and enjoy a delicious meal from Executive Chef, Russ Bodner, who offers a creative menu sourced primarily through local growers. Their Taproom Leader keeps the atmosphere fun with lots of family-friendly activities, including sports on TVs, Cornhole, Ping Pong, Foosball, Woofday Wednesdays for pups in the garden, yoga on the porch, Thursday Trivia, and frequent live music from local and regional performers. Check social media for an updated calendar of events, menu and beers on tap, and come be a part of one of Birmingham’s hottest venues.
Located at 3201 1st Ave North, Birmingham, AL 35222; backfortybeer.com; 205.407.8025; Hours: Mon & Wed: 3-10pm Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri & Sat: 11am-12am Sun: 11am-9pm Closed Tuesdays
