If you’re planning a weekend in Birmingham, consider this your go-to, eat-well, see-a-lot, sleep-great game plan. Below is my exact two-day itinerary with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two activities per day, plus a bonus alternate Saturday plan for the Pepper Place Farmers Market. I’ve included all my notes in full—polished for flow—so you can copy this, book it, and have the best weekend in Birmingham without overthinking a thing.
This is a fabulous breakfast/brunch spot. If you show up when they open it is pretty chill but those hours between 8–10 can be pretty busy. We are not early risers so we’ve had great luck with no lines anytime after 10. They have a philosophy of simple food, honest ingredients, and good old fashioned hospitality. The crew that works there were so nice and helpful. They have 2 locations but we are fond of the Cahaba Heights one. The owner is Jonathan. And his wife, Meredith, and they have five kids. What started out as a quest to nourish themselves with the best foods they could get our hands on, has turned into The Alabama Biscuit Company. Armed with sprouted and stone milled ancient grain, organic and pasture based fats, as many local and organic ingredients as we can find along the way, and a good old-fashioned biscuit recipe, we aim to bring some tasty nourishment to the world. You can buy the biscuit mix there to take home too!
Every time we go we always check their daily specials. We ordered their bacon du jour which is an house made apple jelly, Sliced Local apples, Conecuh Bacon, Farm Egg, Grass-fed Cheddar, Grain Mustard, and Shaved Fennel. Then we wanted a little savory and sweet so we also got the Apple Bis-Cake. This is a Spiced House Local apple Jelly, Sliced Local apples, Vanilla Mascarpone Cream, and lemon marmalade. I also tried their blueberry spiced latte. We also got a plate of their biscuits and gravy because it’s the star of the show. This is not your typical gravy it is a brown black pepper gravy so unique and flavorful! Honestly anything you get here is going to be delicious!
Railroad Park is one of downtown Birmingham’s most beautiful and community-loved green spaces — a 19-acre urban park that perfectly blends city energy with outdoor relaxation. Opened in 2010, it was built along the historic rail lines that helped shape Birmingham’s industrial past, and today it’s affectionately called the city’s “front lawn.” The park features wide grassy fields, walking and biking paths, ponds, playgrounds, and stunning skyline views that make it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
It’s a true community hub — you’ll find people picnicking, jogging, reading under the trees, or grabbing lunch from nearby food trucks. The park also hosts some of Birmingham’s biggest events, like Trucks by the Tracks, Magic City Classic tailgates, Fitness in the Park classes, and outdoor movie nights. There’s even a small skate zone and a natural amphitheater for live music and festivals.
What makes Railroad Park special is how it connects the city’s history with its modern revival — the old train tracks and industrial steel accents nod to Birmingham’s roots, while the open green spaces and public art reflect the city’s creativity and growth. It’s also just steps away from Regions Field (home of the Birmingham Barons baseball team) and the buzzing Parkside district full of restaurants and breweries. Whether you’re taking a morning walk, catching a sunset picnic, or attending a local event, Railroad Park is one of the best ways to experience Birmingham’s downtown charm.
Sloss Furnaces is one of those Birmingham landmarks that you have to see to really get it. Once an active iron-producing blast furnace from the late 1800s through the 1970s, it literally helped build the city — which is why Birmingham got its nickname, “The Magic City.” Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark, and wandering through it feels like stepping into another era. The giant smokestacks, rusted machinery, and old brick buildings give it this hauntingly beautiful, industrial vibe that’s equal parts spooky and fascinating (especially at sunset when the whole place glows).
But Sloss isn’t just about history — it’s also one of the city’s coolest event spaces. You can catch live concerts, festivals, art shows, and even iron-pouring demonstrations where local artists melt and mold metal just like they did a century ago. And if you’re here in October, brace yourself for Sloss Fright Furnace, one of the best haunted attractions in the South — creepy stories and all.
It’s the kind of place that perfectly sums up Birmingham: a little gritty, full of history, and surprisingly creative. Whether you’re a photographer chasing that golden light, a history nerd, or just looking for something different to explore, Sloss Furnaces is one stop that deserves a spot on your Birmingham itinerary.
Five Points South is one of Birmingham’s most historic and lively neighborhoods — a mix of old charm, local flavor, and nightlife all packed into a walkable district just a few minutes from downtown. It was developed in the late 1800s as one of the city’s original “streetcar suburbs,” and today it’s known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and historic architecture. The neighborhood centers around the Five Points Circle, where five major streets meet, and it’s easily recognizable by the Storyteller Fountain, a whimsical bronze sculpture that’s become a local landmark.
Five Points South has a little bit of everything — you can grab brunch at Original Pancake House, enjoy dinner at Highlands Bar & Grill (a James Beard Award–winning restaurant), or catch live music at Zydeco, one of Birmingham’s classic venues. It’s also home to several coffee shops, rooftop bars, and locally owned spots like Ocean for upscale seafood and Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q for a true Southern fix. The area has a vibrant, artsy feel with murals, street performers, and a friendly mix of college students, locals, and travelers. Whether you’re there for a relaxed afternoon or a night out, Five Points South perfectly blends Birmingham’s history, creativity, and Southern hospitality in one unforgettable neighborhood.
Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q is a Birmingham staple — a true Southern barbecue spot that started right here before expanding across the Southeast. The very first location opened in 1985 in Birmingham’s Southside neighborhood, just steps from Five Points South, when father-and-son team Jim and Nick Pihakis decided to share their love for slow-smoked meats and family-style cooking. What began as a small neighborhood joint quickly grew into one of Alabama’s most beloved restaurants, known for its warm hospitality, smoky aroma, and melt-in-your-mouth barbecue.
The menu covers all the classics — pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked chicken, ribs, and house-made sausage — all cooked low and slow over hickory wood. Each plate comes with hearty Southern sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, baked beans, and slaw. But the real star (and what locals never stop talking about) is their famous cheese biscuits — small, golden, and slightly sweet bites of heaven that show up at your table before every meal.
Jim ’N Nick’s takes pride in doing things the old-fashioned way: everything is made from scratch daily, from the barbecue sauces to the pie crusts. The vibe is casual and welcoming, with that “sit a while” Southern energy where no one’s in a rush. Whether you’re grabbing takeout after exploring Five Points or sitting down for a full feast, Jim ’N Nick’s is one of those places that feels like home — delicious, comforting, and 100% Birmingham.
The English Village area of Mountain Brook in Birmingham is one of the most charming and picturesque spots in the city. It feels like stepping into a quaint European town, with tree-lined streets, beautiful old architecture, and locally owned boutiques and cafes tucked close together. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering between little shops, grabbing coffee, and enjoying the small-town feel right in the middle of Birmingham.
Our favorite spot here is Vino, an upscale restaurant that serves Mediterranean and Italian-inspired dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and elegant, with twinkle lights on the patio and a warm, romantic vibe inside. The menu features fresh, creative dishes like spicy pan-seared Gulf shrimp, braised rosemary lamb shank, and creamy date-night pasta with goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. They’re also known for their extensive wine list and decadent desserts like apple fritters à la mode and Tahitian vanilla crème brûlée.
Whether you’re planning a date night or just want to treat yourself after exploring the local shops, Vino is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the charm of English Village. After you go to English Village then head over to Country Club Road for a look at some local mansions and fun dreaming of your house if you were rich ha.
Right in the heart of English Village near Vino, you’ll find several other great restaurants that make this little pocket of Mountain Brook a true dining gem. Just down the street, Brick & Tin is a cozy spot known for its farm-to-table approach, serving fresh sandwiches, soups, and salads made with locally sourced ingredients — perfect for a relaxed lunch or quick coffee stop between boutiques. For something more upscale, Daniel George (dg) Restaurant & Bar offers creative American dishes that change daily, featuring Gulf seafood, locally grown produce, and an impressive wine list. It’s a go-to for date nights or special occasions. Another favorite nearby is Key Circle Commons, an elegant cocktail lounge where you can sip handcrafted drinks, enjoy small plates, and listen to live music in a stylish, laid-back setting. Frida’s Mexican Restaurant, just around the corner, adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor to the village with its lively atmosphere and modern Mexican cuisine — think flavorful tacos, sizzling fajitas, and fresh margaritas that pair perfectly with a sunny patio afternoon. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, Continental Bakery is a must-visit for its European-style breads, pastries, and espresso drinks. Together with Vino’s Mediterranean and Italian-inspired menu and twinkling patio lights, these spots make English Village one of the most charming and delicious areas to eat, sip, and stroll in all of Birmingham.
Mountain Brook Village is one of the three main “villages” that make up the city of Mountain Brook, Alabama — an upscale suburb just a few minutes from downtown Birmingham. The city was designed in the 1920s as one of the first planned residential communities in the South, and each “village” (Mountain Brook Village, English Village, and Crestline Village) serves as a small walkable town center filled with shops, restaurants, and local charm.
Mountain Brook Village itself sits near the intersection of Cahaba Road and Montevallo Road, not far from the Birmingham Zoo and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. It’s known for its elegant, old-world architecture, tree-lined streets, and relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere. Locals love it for its boutique shopping, fine dining, and neighborhood feel — it’s the kind of place where you can park once, stroll between locally owned stores, stop for lunch or coffee, and take in the pretty views.
Some well-known spots in Mountain Brook Village include Chez Lulu (a cozy French café), Gilchrist, a beloved soda fountain-style lunch spot that’s been around for decades, and The Grand Bohemian Hotel, which adds a touch of modern luxury with its rooftop bar and art gallery. Between its beautiful setting and easy walkability, Mountain Brook Village perfectly blends small-town charm with upscale Southern sophistication — a must-visit if you’re exploring during your weekend in Birmingham.
Do the Big Bad Breakfast. It’s exactly what it sounds like—big, bold Southern breakfast classics done right. Think fluffy biscuits, skillet hash, thick-cut bacon, shrimp & grits, pancakes, omelets, and the kind of coffee that convinces you to order a second round “for the road.” The vibe is lively and casual, the portions are generous, and everything tastes like your favorite diner went to culinary school. Arrive hungry and don’t be shy about splitting a pancake stack “for the table.”
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens is one of the city’s most beautiful and peaceful attractions — a 67-acre oasis located right next to Mountain Brook Village and the Birmingham Zoo. It’s completely free to visit year-round, making it one of the best budget-friendly (and photo-worthy) spots in Birmingham. The gardens feature over 30 themed gardens, including the Japanese Garden with its koi pond and red torii gate, the Rose Garden, Southern Living Garden, and the Fern Glade, each offering something unique in every season. At the Japanese garden there is an entrance at the end of the parking lot you can go through so you can start there instead of having to go all the way around and you can work your way backwards through the park. We parked at our hotel down the road and walked so that was an easier exit for us once we were done.
It’s a popular spot for morning walks, picnics, photography, and even small weddings. The grounds are beautifully maintained, filled with winding paths, water features, sculptures, and vibrant seasonal flowers. Inside the main building, you’ll find a conservatory, an art gallery, and the Garden Center, which hosts workshops, plant sales, and community events throughout the year.
The gardens are also home to one of the largest public horticultural libraries in the country — the Library at the Gardens — and a charming gift shop that sells plants, books, and locally made goods. Whether you’re a plant lover, a photographer, or just someone who wants a peaceful stroll surrounded by nature, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a must-see spot that perfectly showcases the city’s natural beauty and Southern charm.
Lane Parke is one of Mountain Brook’s newest and most stylish developments — a beautifully designed shopping and dining district that perfectly blends small-town charm with modern luxury. Located right next to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and the Grand Bohemian Hotel, Lane Parke feels like its own little village within Mountain Brook, where you can shop, dine, and stroll all in one gorgeous, walkable area. The architecture has that classic Mountain Brook elegance — brick walkways, gas lanterns, tree-lined streets, and inviting outdoor patios that make it feel cozy and upscale at the same time.
The development features a curated mix of local boutiques, national retailers, and restaurants, giving it a balanced “live, shop, eat” vibe. You’ll find stylish shops for clothing, gifts, and home décor alongside cafés, dessert spots, and casual lunch favorites like Chop N Fresh, where you can grab a fresh salad or grain bowl. For something heartier, BrickTop’s offers polished American fare in a sleek setting, and Char Bar No. 7 serves classic Southern comfort food with a lively bar scene. The Grand Bohemian Hotel next door adds a touch of resort-style luxury, complete with a rooftop bar that overlooks the gardens — perfect for cocktails at sunset.
Chop N Fresh is a bright, modern salad restaurant in Mountain Brook’s Lane Parke development, right near the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and the Grand Bohemian Hotel. It’s locally owned and all about fresh, customizable, and healthy food made fast — the kind of place where you can grab a quick lunch that still feels wholesome and delicious.
Their menu centers on chopped salads, grain bowls, and wraps, all made to order with crisp produce, lean proteins, and house-made dressings. You can choose from signature options like the “SoCal” with avocado and grilled chicken or the “Sweet Heat” with spicy chickpeas and jalapeños — or build your own from scratch. When I went, I ordered the Strawberry Bae (a mix of fresh strawberries, goat cheese, candied pecans, and grilled chicken) and the Mexican Elote Bowl, which had roasted corn, black beans, avocado, and creamy chipotle dressing — and both were amazing. Everything is prepared right in front of you, so you can watch your order come together and tweak it however you like.
The vibe is clean, casual, and welcoming, with bright interiors and outdoor seating that make it a perfect lunch stop after a walk through the Botanical Gardens or a morning exploring Mountain Brook. Whether you’re craving something light after traveling, need a quick bite between errands, or just want a salad that actually fills you up, Chop N Fresh is one of the best healthy dining spots in Birmingham’s village scene. I will always recommend getting Jeni’s Ice Cream if it is nearby and this is just a minute walk from Chop N Fresh.
The Shops of Grand River are located in Leeds, Alabama, which is about 20 miles east of downtown Birmingham — roughly a 25–30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Located right off I-20, this open-air shopping center features a great mix of name-brand outlet stores, local boutiques, and casual dining spots. You’ll find favorites like Nike, Coach, Levi’s, and Polo Ralph Lauren, along with smaller specialty shops and a few fun extras like a drive-in movie theater and mini-golf nearby. The atmosphere is clean, relaxed, and easy to navigate — ideal for cooling off, stretching your legs, and snagging a few deals before heading back to Birmingham. Whether you’re a serious shopper or just in the mood to browse, The Shops of Grand River makes a great stop to round out your day near Barber Motorsports Park. Just down the road is
Right next to The Shops of Grand River in Leeds, you’ll find two must-visit stops that have become destinations all on their own — Buc-ee’s and Bass Pro Shops. The Leeds Buc-ee’s is a Texas-sized convenience store that’s anything but ordinary, known for its spotless restrooms, endless snack aisles, homemade fudge, barbecue sandwiches, and iconic Beaver Nuggets. You could easily spend half an hour just wandering the aisles, picking out souvenirs, or grabbing a fresh brisket sandwich for the road. Across the interstate, the massive Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World feels more like a museum of the outdoors than a store, complete with towering displays, an indoor waterfall, and huge aquariums filled with native fish. It’s a favorite stop for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering everything from camping gear and fishing rods to cozy flannels and home décor. Together, Buc-ee’s and Bass Pro Shops make Leeds one of the most entertaining and unexpected shopping spots in Alabama — part road trip stop, part adventure.
This is our hands down favorite Resturant in Birmingham we make it a priority to go anytime we are in the area. This area is so cute and has stinging lights with outdoor or indoor seating. They have the cutest patio with a small water feature and fire pit. As soon as you pull up it is welcoming. They have a very small parking lot so we have only gotten lucky a few times and were able to park in their actual lot. The other times we drive around back and park at the Pepper Place parking lot. It is a short 2 minute walk to the Resturant. We sat inside this time and the decorations and ambiance are romantic and sexy. If you are wanting to stop in for a drink they do have a bar and you can watch as they cook the food in their open fire oven. If there is one thing I can confidently say to order every time it is the beef fat candle. Their menu does change seasonally but this always stays on the menu because it is that good! When it is delivered just let the candle melt and get all that yumminess into the broth then take your bread and dip! The beef fat candle is creamy from the fat, salty, savory. The bread is crunchy but perfectly soft in the middle with fresh butter so you get to experience all the feels.
We will then order a seasonal salad to split this time it was th apple and manchego salad with radish, apple, macron almonds, and creamy manchego dressing. We also decided to try their burrata with jamon Serrano, roasted grapes, estaboga honey, and croutons. It was like a mini burrata cheese plate. For dinner brad got the roasted chicken. This is a on the bone chicken cooked in their wood fired oven with fired sweet plantains and salsa verde. My choice was the hanger steak which was so tender and flavorful and then they add the chimichurri and roasted veggies as a side. We never skip dessert and they all sounded so good this time we narrowed it down to 2 and ordered those ha. After a large dinner we love going for a walk behind the Resturant to walk off our dinner. The road with the hanging lights makes for a great picture spot!
Want more on this spot? See my dedicated post: Ovenbird Birmingham AL (it’s a love letter, truly) and then plan your own weekend in Birmingham around it.
If Saturday is part of your weekend in Birmingham, add this: Pepper Place Farmers Market. The Pepper Place Farmers Market in Birmingham is one of the city’s most vibrant and beloved weekend traditions. Held every Saturday morning from spring through late fall, it takes place in the historic Pepper Place district — a beautifully restored warehouse area that once housed the Dr Pepper bottling plant. The market brings together dozens of local farmers, artisans, bakers, and makers, filling the streets with fresh produce, flowers, handmade goods, and the smell of warm pastries and coffee.
It’s the perfect way to start a Saturday: strolling through rows of colorful booths, chatting with local vendors, and listening to live music from Alabama artists. Beyond the produce, you’ll find everything from fresh bread and honey to handmade candles and pottery. Many of Birmingham’s best chefs shop here, and nearby restaurants and cafés open early for brunch, making it easy to turn your morning at the market into a full-day outing. Whether you’re a foodie, a plant lover, or just enjoy supporting local businesses, the Pepper Place Farmers Market captures the friendly, creative spirit that makes Birmingham so special. After the market you a browse the local brick and mortar shops nearby like Design Supply, Yellowhammer Print Shop, and my personal favorite FarmStand by Stone Hollow Farmstead. And of course you need to stop by Jeni’s Ice Cream for your afternoon treat.
This itinerary stacks easily for a short trip, but you can swap meals and activities depending on weather and mood. If this is your very first weekend in Birmingham, First-Timer’s Guide to Birmingham, Alabama will help you match neighborhoods to your style. If you’re a brunch person (same), keep the Alabama Biscuit Company and Big Bad Breakfast, then add a second brunch from my Birmingham Brunch Guide: Where to Eat Late and Love It. And if your dates include Saturday, Pepper Place is a must—see my Birmingham Farmers Markets You Have to Visit for planning details.
If you’re searching for the best restaurants near Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Heirloom Restaurant in Reston, VA deserves a spot on your list ✨🍽️
Located in Reston Town Center just minutes from Dulles Airport, it’s the perfect place for a pre-flight dinner or post-flight meal when you want something far better than typical airport food. Think elevated dining, a relaxed atmosphere, and a convenient location that makes travel days feel a little more enjoyable.
Planning ahead? Pair your visit with one of the many hotels near Reston Town Center for an easy overnight stay near IAD ideal for early departures, late arrivals, or a smooth travel stop in the Washington, DC area.
#DullesAirport #WashingtonDCtravel #TravelTips #TravelBlogger #DCFoodie
The Dominican Republic is so much more than a beach destination… ✈️🌴
From slow mornings on the coast to stepping into history in Zona Colonial, and unexpected adventure everywhere in between, this trip ended up being so much more than we planned
And if you happen to be there at the right time… Humpback whale season in Samaná Bay is something you don’t forget. This is your sign to go beyond the resort and see what else the island has to offer ✨
Save this for your trip + send it to who you’re taking with you 🤍
We were just passing through the Dominican Republic when locals kept mentioning “Carnival” and within minutes, it was very clear something big was happening.✨
At the time, I didn’t fully understand what we had stumbled into. But after getting home and doing some research, I realized this is the birthplace of Dominican Carnival… and one of the most traditional, historic celebrations in the country.
And now that I know that? It makes complete sense. This isn’t just a parade… it takes over the entire city. If you ever find yourself nearby during Carnival season... go. No planning needed. Just follow the energy.
Read the full experience on the blog ✈️
Tucked away in the Dominican Republic, @elrincondelcaferd is everything you want in a quick coffee spot. ☕️ Fresh flavors, and that don’t rush me energy!
If you’re building your itinerary, add this to your list. Trust me. Save this for your next trip + send it to someone you’re taking with you 🤍
Idaho City is quiet. Historic. Intentionally slow-paced.🪵✈️
It’s not somewhere you rush through.
It’s somewhere you settle into.
If you’re craving a low-key mountain escape that actually feels unplugged, this is it. View my full guide on my bio!
Follow @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.
