City Editor Dylan here. These days I’m all about Music City (aka, Nashville, TN), but growing up I was charmed by the Magic City — Birmingham, Alabama. If a flourishing food scene, thriving arts community, and family-friendly fun appeal to you, read on to see what’s so magical about this midsize metropolitan.

See a production at the Lyric Theatre or Alabama Theatre during your stay. | Photo by Art Meripol via the Alabama Tourism Department

Why go?

Birmingham is a foodie's paradise, having earned the nickname “Dinner Table of the South” with a roster of iconic restaurants, James Beard darlings, and culinary traditions.
Visit during the spring to experience the Magic City Art Connection, the city’s largest outdoor arts festival. The event takes over Sloss Furnaces, a former iron production facility and now a National Historic Landmark.
Check out this interactive travel guide for the lowdown on attractions, shopping, and outdoor fun.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens spans 67 acres and features over 25 individual gardens. | Photo by Chris Granger via the Alabama Tourism Department

Act like a local:

Food: A Birmingham favorite since 1995, the tomato salad at Hot and Hot Fish Club is a can't miss spring and summer dish. The appetizer arrives to great fanfare in early May and remains on the menu through September.
Drink: The city’s craft brewery scene has boomed in recent years, but we’ll never turn down a local cup of joe. Pick up a latte from the original O'Henry's Coffee so you can sip, shop, and stroll through Homewood.
Outdoors: Locals flock to Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Ruffner Mountain, and Moss Rock Preserve — all located within 15 miles of downtown — to be active and enjoy the great outdoors.
Arts: Besides the free Birmingham Museum of Art, watch an indie film at the Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema or enjoy a stage production at the Alys Stephens Center.
Family: The McWane Science Center attracts curious minds of all ages. Discover the science of suds in the Bubble Room, explore the underground aquarium, and enjoy the immersive IMAX Dome Theater.
Explore: Of course, no trip to Birmingham is complete without visiting Vulcan Park and Museum, home to the world's largest cast iron statue.

Vulcan Park and Museum features panoramic views of Birmingham. | Photo by Art Meripol via the Alabama Tourism Department

Where to stay:

Vrbo: This downtown loft is located in the heart of Magic City. (~$114/night)
Splurge hotel: Check into Mountain Brook’s Grand Bohemian Hotel for luxurious accommodations. (~$550/night)
Save hotel: Stay at the Redmont Hotel Birmingham and be within walking distance of the Alabama and Lyric theaters. (~$200/night)