Gay Birmingham AL – Ultimate Travel Guide, Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Activities (Updated 2024)
Gay Friendly Travel Guides 10th May, 2023
Gay Birmingham AL is a city in the north-central region of the U.S. state of Alabama.
Gay Birmingham Al is the county seat of Jefferson County, which is the most populated in Alabama.
The city is home to plenty of art deco structures with many of the city’s major attractions concentrated in the Fourth Avenue Historic District, Southside, and the Five Points South neighbourhood.
Gay Birmingham Al has a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and lively nightlife, as well as magnificent views of the adjacent Appalachian Mountains.
The city is becoming a more popular tourist destination, and the city’s museums provide insight into the region’s civil rights history.
This sophisticated, small, and well-heeled international city, with a rich history of Italian, Lebanese, Greek, Asian, Hispanic, and Eastern European influences, will enthral you with its cultural diversity merged into the known southern culture.
Gay Birmingham Al may not spring immediately to mind when considering LGBTQ+ friendly places, but it is worth a second look.
The city is extremely accepting, with the best gay community in Alabama. Throughout your stay in the city, you will never feel unsafe or uneasy.
If you are thinking about going somewhere else you can try other Gay Travel Guides.
Remember to always check out the latest rules and restrictions before you leave.
Gay Birmingham AL – the Scene
Gay Birmingham AL is Alabama’s largest city, and it is now home to a thriving and vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
The city is also becoming more proactive in terms of LGBTQ+ rights including a gay and lesbian film festival, an annual Pride march and many establishments publicly identifying as LGBTQ+ friendly.
As the Gay Birmingham AL gay scene continues to grow and expand, support organizations have been established within the city to help empower the community.
The Magic City Wellness Center runs a weekly LGBTQ+ running group every Sunday along with a variety of health and wellness services and activities for the gay community.
The Magic City Acceptance Center (MCAC) is an LGBTQ+ youth support place that offers community events, workshops, health services, free counseling, and more to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer kids and their allies aged 13 to 24.
They have regular drop-in hours in which they can unwind, complete homework, play video games, and eat snacks in a welcoming setting.
Is Gay Birmingham AL Safe?
Gay Birmingham AL is a relatively safe city in Alabama, but it certainly has its dangers.
When using public transportation or in crowded areas, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings. Although the city is considered to be relatively safe, it is still better to use common sense and be cautious to avoid unpleasant situations.
Best Time to Visit Gay Birmingham AL
Gay Birmingham Al is best visited in the spring and fall, from March to May or September to November.
These shoulder seasons are not only economical, the weather is also ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and golfing.
If you want to keep your travel expenses as low as possible, the winter months of December through February are perfect.
It’s particularly ideal because winters in this section of the southeast are mild, with an average yearly snowfall of roughly 2 inches.
Best Gay-Friendly Hotels in Gay Birmingham AL
Hotel Indigo Birmingham Five Points S – Uab, an IHG Hotel
In the historic Five Points South neighborhood of Gay Birmingham Al, the Hotel Indigo is housed in an Art Deco-style building dating back to the 1930s. Originally built for medical offices, the building still retains its medical insignia above the elevator doors.
The hotel’s design blends modern amenities with nods to the building’s rich history, including hardwood floors, luxury bath amenities, and spa-inspired showers.
Activities | Fitness Center Restaurant |
Price | $$$ |
Location | Hotel Indigo Birmingham Five Points S – Uab, an IHG Hotel 1023 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205 |
Contact | Call +1 205-933-9555 No Email |
Website | Boutique Hotel near UAB | Hotel Indigo Birmingham Five Points S – UAB (ihg.com) |
Aloft Birmingham Soho Square
Aloft Birmingham Soho Square is a boutique hotel located in Homewood, AL, offering a loft-inspired experience with comfortable and pet-friendly rooms featuring plush Marriott bedding, bold decor, and ergonomic workspaces.
Guests can enjoy amenities such as complimentary bottled water, a mini-refrigerator in every room, and 24-hour access to Re: fuel, their market, and W XYZ® Bar with craft drinks and live music.
Activities | Fitness Center Restaurant Business Center |
Price | $$$ |
Location | Aloft Birmingham Soho Square 1903 29TH AVENUE SOUTH, HOMEWOOD, ALABAMA, USA, 35209 |
Contact | Call +1-844-683-8959 or +1 205-874-8055 No Email |
Website | Homewood Hotel Near Birmingham AL | Aloft Birmingham Soho Square (marriott.com) |
Best Western Plus Birmingham Inn & Suites
Best Western Plus Birmingham Inn & Suites provides modern amenities and thoughtful design that sets it apart from other hotels in Gay Birmingham AL.
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, the hotel ensures that guests don’t miss a beat. All guest rooms come equipped with a spacious work desk and free internet access to cater to the needs of business travelers.
Activities | Universal Gym Outdoor Pool |
Price | $$$ |
Location | Best Western Plus Birmingham Inn & Suites 800 Corporate Rdg, Birmingham, AL 35242 |
Contact | Call +1-844-683-8959 or +1 205-874-8055 No Email |
Website | Best Western Plus Birmingham Inn & Suites – Birmingham AL |
Gay-Friendly Dining in Gay Birmingham AL
Gay Birmingham Al is recognized as the ‘Dinner Table of the South’, boasting everything from the best barbecue in the country to worldwide delicacies influenced by South American flavors.
1. Rojo
Rojo is a casual neighborhood restaurant on Highland Avenue in Gay Birmingham Al. Rojo, which serves both Latin and American cuisine, is the ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks with friends.
Rojo also offers a fantastic weekend brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.
Types of Food | Burritos, Salads, Tacos, Quesadillas, Sandwich, Burgers, Desserts |
Price | $$ |
Location | 2921 Highland Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205 |
More Information | Rojo (rojobirmingham.com) |
2. Highlands Bar & Grill
Highlands Bar & Grill is another popular alternative, with a seasonal menu of French-inspired food and regional Southern fare that has garnered national acclaim.
Its premium setting is ideal for a date night or a high-end night out with friends.
Types of Food | Seafood, Pork, Desserts, Vegetables |
Price | $$-$$$ |
Location | 2011 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205 |
More Information | Highlands Bar & Grill (highlandsbarandgrill.com) |
3. Bellinis Ristorante & Bar
Bellinis is the only Italian-infused steakhouse in Gay Birmingham Al, serving hand-cut steaks cooked to perfection over a wood-burning grill, house-made pasta, veal, seafood, and classic Tuscan Italian cuisine.
Bellinis has a large wine list and offers weekly dessert deals.
Types of Food | Salads, Seafood, Pasta, Pizza, Ravioli |
Price | $$ |
Location | 6801 Cahaba Valley Rd Ste 106, Birmingham, AL 35242 |
More Information | Bellinis (ourbellinis.com) |
4. Slice Pizza & Brew
From the ingredients that go into each pizza to the beer on tap, Slice Pizza & Brew is as local as it gets. They keep their menu as fresh as their ingredients, ensuring that you’ll never run out of new things to sample.
You’ll enjoy their food and atmosphere regardless of who you are or where you’re from.
Types of Food | Pizza, Desserts, Pasta, Salads |
Price | $$ |
Location | 725 29th St S Birmingham, AL 35233 |
More Information | Home – Slice Pizza Birmingham (slicebirmingham.com) |
5. Eli’s Jerusalem Grill
Thousands of Gay Birmingham Al locals regard Eli’s Jerusalem Grill as the best Israeli restaurant in the city.
Their restaurant is dedicated to offering you the freshest produce and expertly prepared premium meats, all served with their homemade pita, homemade soups, and desserts, all prepared daily in their kitchen to bring you the tastiest and best-loved food of Israel.
Types of Food | Shawarma, Chicken, Kabob, Vegetables |
Price | $$ |
Location | 4673 Highway 280 Ste 3, Birmingham, AL 35242 |
More Information | Eli’s Jerusalem Grill – Authentic Israeli Cuisine (elisjerusalemgrill.com) |
Gay Bars and Clubs in Gay Birmingham AL
Once the sun sets, there’s an undeniable energy that pulses through the city, where Southern friendliness is mixed with a fair dose of cosmopolitan appeal.
Whether you’re searching for some live music or a more lively bar environment, you’ll discover a surprising mix of music and entertainment that will get you dancing, grooving, and wanting to come back for more.
1. Al’s on Seventh
Al’s on Seventh is a laid-back gay bar in Gay Birmingham Al, close to the city’s vibrant gay scene. Affordable beverages, an outside patio, and a separate showroom are all available at this laid-back LGBTQ+ bar.
They have excellent drag shows with a fantastic Dreamcast, delicious beverages, a pool, karaoke, and much more.
Price | $$ |
Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
Location | 2627 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233 |
Contact | +1 205-321-2812 |
Website | Al’s on Seventh’s Flowpage (flowcode.com) |
2. The Quest Club
The Quest Club is a popular gay nightclub on the south side of Gay Birmingham Al. This vibrant nightclub hosts DJs, karaoke, and drag acts regularly.
It attracts a wide range of people for late-night dancing and other exciting activities. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Price | $$ |
Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
Location | 416 24th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233 |
Contact | +1 205-251-4313 |
Website | Quest Club – THE Hottest Nightclub in Birmingham! (quest-club.com) |
3. Our Place
Our Place is a laid-back gay bar on the south side of Gay Birmingham Al, adjacent to the city’s gay nightlife. There are TV screens broadcasting videos around this modest neighborhood gay club, as well as a small dance floor.
You can enjoy great drinks at a fair price and chat with locals in a casual setting.
Price | $$ |
Food and Drinks | Drinks Only |
Location | 2115 7th Ave S, Birmingham, USA, AL 35233 |
Contact | +1 205-715-0077 |
Website | No Website |
Gay-Friendly Activities and Attractions in Gay Birmingham AL
Whatever your preferences are, there are a plethora of activities and attractions to choose from. You’ll quickly see why so many people go to Gay Birmingham Al.
1. Barber Motorsports Park
At Barber Motorsports Park in Gay Birmingham Al, racing is more than a pastime; it’s a way of life.
The park is dedicated to all things motorsports, with a thrilling racecourse nestled in the woods and the world’s largest motorcycle museum. You can immerse yourself in the world of pistons and pit stops.
The adjacent museum houses one of the world’s largest motorcycle collections. There are almost 600 bikes and cars from all eras of motoring on display.
A larger number of automobiles are maintained in storage and are only displayed on special event days.
Activities | Sightseeing |
Location | 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway Birmingham, Alabama USA 35094 |
Price | $$ |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | https://www.birminghamal.org/ |
2. Birmingham Civil Rights Tour
Take a deep dive into Civil Rights history on a tour of the movement’s most important landmarks instead of the many generic city tours that skim over the city’s past.
You may learn about Birmingham’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement and receive personalised attention from your guide by attending a concentrated small-group tour.
Activities | Sightseeing, Educational Tour |
Location | Birmingham, AL |
Price | $$ |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | Civil Rights Tour – Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau – Birmingham, AL (birminghamal.org) |
3. Historical Highlights of Birmingham
With this tour of the most important historic landmarks in Gay Birmingham Al, you’ll get to know Alabama’s largest city and gain an insight into Southern history.
Visit key sites like Kelly Ingram Park to learn more about the Civil Rights Movement; the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark and Birmingham’s Railroad Park to learn more about Birmingham’s industrial history, and the Negro Southern League Museum to learn more about the city’s passion for baseball.
Activities | Sightseeing, Historical Tour |
Location | Birmingham, AL |
Price | $$ |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | No Website |
4. Birmingham Original Brew Tour
This trip includes stops at Cahaba Brewing Company, Good People Brewing Company, Ghost Train Brewing Company, and TrimTab Brewing Company, where you can sample up to 16 different beer styles.
Enjoy a delectable beer-themed lunch and pairing. The tour also includes round-trip transportation in a comfortable vehicle.
You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the craft breweries in Gay Birmingham Al, as well as interactive lectures on beer history and culture.
Activities | Sightseeing, Beer Sampling |
Location | Birmingham, AL |
Price | $$$ |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | The Original Brew Tour – Birmingham – City Brew Tours Birmingham – All-inclusive, Guided Brewery Tours & Events |
5. Birmingham’s Railroad Park
Railroad Park is a 19-acre open park in downtown Gay Birmingham Al dedicated to the city’s industrial and artistic history.
The park, which is located between 14th and 18th Streets on 1st Avenue South, is a collaboration between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation.
Railroad Park provides a historically rich location for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events.
Activities | Sightseeing, Recreational Activities |
Location | 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233 |
Price | Free |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | Birmingham’s Railroad Park – Home |
6. Alabama Theatre
The Alabama Theatre is located on 3rd Avenue North in downtown Gay Birmingham, Al.
The Alabama Theatre has hosted a variety of acts and activities, including movies, concerts, beauty pageants, silent films, and even the Mickey Mouse Club, since 1927.
This magnificent theatre is a work of art that transcends the mind and must be experienced to be appreciated.
Activities | Sightseeing, Watching Events and Shows |
Location | 1817 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203 |
Price | $$-$$$ |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | Alabama Theatre | Since 1927 |
7. Birmingham Museum of Art
The Birmingham Museum of Art, which is located in the heart of the cultural center in Gay Birmingham Al, first opened its doors in 1951.
Over 25,000 objects from Asian, American, European, African, Native American, and Pre-Columbian cultures are housed in the museum’s permanent collection.
The museum offers a variety of lectures, events, and activities for a wide spectrum of people. One of Birmingham’s most popular attractions is the Birmingham Museum of Art.
Activities | Sightseeing, Watching Events and Art Exhibitions |
Location | 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35203 |
Price | $$ |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | Birmingham Museum of Art (artsbma.org) |
8. Vulcan Park and Museum
A 50-ton, 56-foot-tall iron statue of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire, stands atop Red Mountain, just outside Birmingham.
Since the 1930s, this massive sculpture, the world’s largest cast-iron statue, has guarded Gay Birmingham Al and is one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
The statue is constructed of native iron and is surrounded by a lovely, well-kept park that is a favourite spot for weddings, parties, viewing the city’s stunning views, or simply enjoying the day.
The Vulcan Museum, which holds a variety of exhibits, lectures, and other activities, is located in the park. Vulcan Park is the most popular viewing location for the annual Fourth of July fireworks.
Activities | Sightseeing, Exhibits |
Location | 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209 |
Price | $$ |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | Vulcan Park & Museum: Birmingham, AL (visitvulcan.com) |
9. Rickwood Field
Rick Woodward, an industrialist, and owner of the Birmingham Barons built Rickwood Field in 1910.
Rickwood Field is the country’s oldest surviving professional baseball facility, and it’s on the National Register of Historic Places in the United States.
The park was the first concrete and steel stadium in the minor leagues, covering 12.7 acres.
Activities | Sightseeing, Exhibits |
Location | 1137 2nd Ave W, Birmingham, AL 35204 |
Price | $$ |
Availability | All Year Round |
More Information | Rickwood Field |
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How to get to Birmingham, AL?
From Canada
If you’re from Canada and want to visit Birmingham, Alabama, the fastest and quickest method to get there is via airline.
If you book a trip from Canada, you will be going to Birmingham, which is the city’s only airport. Air Canada, Air France, and British Airways are the most popular airlines flying from Canada to Birmingham, but you might also want to consider booking a flight with Lufthansa, KLM, or Air France, as these airlines have all implemented new flexible cancellation policies, so keep that in mind when booking your flight.
While some travelers choose Toronto Island to Birmingham or Vancouver Intl to Birmingham, the most popular route from Canada to Birmingham is Toronto Pearson Intl to Birmingham.
Canada is also one of
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From the United Kingdom
If you are from the United Kingdom and want to witness and explore Birmingham in the US, riding in a plane is the best alternative for you to get there. British Airways offers a one-stop flight from London to Birmingham, AL.
This flight will depart from London Heathrow Airport which will take 14 hours and 30 minutes to arrive at Shuttlesworth International Airport.
Gay Birmingham, UK – Ultimate Travel Guide, Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Activities
From Italy
If you are traveling from Italy, air travel is the best option to go with. You may book a one-stop flight with Air France from Rome to Birmingham, AL.
This flight will originate from Fiumicino-Leonardo da Vinci International Airport which will take 13 hours and 45 minutes to arrive at Shuttlesworth International Airport.
Gay Italy – Ultimate Travel Guide, Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Activities
From Australia
If you are from Australia, riding in an airplane is the most comfortable and fastest way to get there. Qantaslink- Sunstate Airlines offers a one-stop flight from Sydney to Birmingham, this flight will depart from Kingsford Smith Airport and will take about 22 hours and 45 minutes to arrive at Shuttlesworth International Airport.