Heading to Slossfest? Don’t Miss These Birmingham Staples
If you haven’t already, you need to check out the amazing lineup Sloss Fest put together for its 2017 installment. No doubt that once you see the lineup you’ll be planning your trip to Birmingham. But don’t just look at this as a trip to a festival; Birmingham is an amazing city with so much to offer. We’ve put together a list of some non-Slossfest activities you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip. Hey, you may even want to extend your trip so you can soak in all that Birmingham has to offer!
1) Stop by Saw’s for Birmingham’s best Barbecue
Saw’s has taken Birmingham by storm since opening their first outpost in 2009. The restaurant has expanded to include two additional locations in Birmingham and has been named #1 Barbecue in America by top national publications like Men’s Journal and Cooking with Paula Deen. Stop by for classic pulled pork, chicken smothered in the famous white BBQ sauce, and barbecue-topped baked potatoes.
2) Take in some culture at the Birmingham Museum of Art
The Birmingham Museum of Art is one of the finest regional museums in the United States; it houses a diverse collection of over 26,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings and decorative arts that range from ancient to modern. Best part about this is that it’s always free!
3) Grab a pint and take at the acclaimed Good People Brewing Company
The Good People Brewing Company churns outs a variety of highly acclaimed beers from popular Snake Handler IPA to full-bodied and muscular El Gordo Imperial Stout, part of their rare Bearded Reserve series. Since their first beer sale in 2008, the good people at Good People have been brewing some of Alabama’s most critically acclaimed brews.
4) Stop by Al’s Deli & Grill for some late-night eats
Nothing satisfies you after a long day of frolicking around a festival than some late-night comfort food. If you’re wondering where to find some while in Birmingham, look no further then UAB staple Al’s Deli & Grill. Serving up Mediterranean and American staples since 1999, you won’t want to miss out on the famous Bakers and Falafel.
5) Snag some vinyl at Seasick Records
Whether you’re stopping by before the festival to stock up on your favorite Sloss artist records or afterwards to pick up some new finds, definitely do not forget to stop by Seasick Records. The intimate record store hosts a great collection of new and old records alike and also has an in-house barber shop and an intimate show space that has hosted Slossfest after-parties.
6) Unwind in Railroad Park
Railroad Park is a 19-acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of the city. Situated along 1st Avenue South between 14th and 18th Streets. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events. During the summer months you can enjoy yoga, biking and outdoor dining at local pop-ups like Boxcar.
7) Recover from the night before while pre-gaming for the day ahead at brunch
While there are quite a few places to do this, our top pick for brunch is Big Bad Breakfast. With Alabama-raised, custom-created meats, fresh biscuits and preserves made in house, locally roasted Octane Coffee and one of the best Bloody Marys you’ll find anywhere, they are not your average breakfast joint.
8) Play classic arcade games and drink some local brews at Paramount
Looking to unwind after a long hard day of enjoying dozens of amazing bands? Head to Paramount for a huge selection of local beers, tasty cocktails and over 20 of your favorite childhood arcade games. The bar stays open until 2, so that gives you plenty of time for post-festival activities.
9) Take in a killer view at Vulcan Park & Museum
Vulcan is the world’s largest cast-iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But Vulcan is more than just a statue—Vulcan Park and Museum feature spectacular views of Birmingham and an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story. Take a hike up to the observation tower for the best views of the city after the tour for the best experience!
10) Sip on a pint in the backyard of Avondale Brewing Company
Avondale Brewing Company is housed in a historical Birmingham building that includes a Brewery that is open for tours, a tasting room and, best of all, a large backyard fully equipped with picnic tables, yard games, a full stage that often hosts big artists and pups (dog-friendly bars ftw). Learn a little bit about the city while sipping on one of the many brews named after folklore of Avondale. Bring your own food or check the company’s socials to see if they’re serving up anything special; they’ve been known to have favorite Birmingham food trucks on site and even crawfish boils.
Daydreaming of a weekend getaway in Birmingham now? Grab your tickets to Sloss Music & Arts Festival, which takes place at historic Sloss Furnaces National Landmark July 15th & 16th.