Hotels in Downtown Birmingham

Unveiling the Soul of Birmingham: A Journey Through Art, History, and Hidden Gems

Downtown Birmingham, Alabama, is a vibrant urban gem that beautifully marries rich history with modern charm. The revitalized riverfront offers scenic strolls along Boulevard North, inviting visitors to bask in the city's natural beauty. Explore the Birmingham Museum, where art and history come alive, or unwind at the bustling local cafes and boutiques that line the streets. With its captivating blend of culture, entertainment, and community spirit, Downtown Birmingham serves as the heart of the city, promising unforgettable experiences for every traveler seeking adventure or relaxation. For the best hotel rates in Downtown Birmingham, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Downtown Birmingham

Downtown Birmingham offers vibrant attractions like the Alabama Theater and Barber Motorsports Park. The Alabama Theater is ideal for first-time visitors with its historic charm and live performances. In contrast, Barber Motorsports Park is perfect for motorsport enthusiasts. Accommodation options range from stylish hotels to luxury suites, with room rates varying widely. Many downtown hotels provide convenient access to these attractions, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers exploring Birmingham. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Downtown Birmingham:

1. Near Alabama TheaterOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is rich in culture and entertainment, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking romance, family fun, or cultural experiences. The Alabama Theater is a cornerstone of the local arts scene, offering a variety of performances throughout the year. For accommodations, consider Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Birmingham DowntownOpens in a new window, a cozy 2.5-star hotel within a mile from the theater, perfect for business and pet-friendly travelers. It features business amenities like conference space and meeting rooms, along with pet services. Another option is Elyton Hotel, Autograph Collection by MarriottOpens in a new window, a stylish 4.0-star hotel also located nearby, offering multiple meeting spaces and a pet-friendly policy. Lastly, John Hand Club HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, provides guests with entertaining options like digital TV and Netflix, making it a comfortable choice for families and entertainment seekers.
2. Near Barber Motorsports ParkOpens in a new window: This exciting destination is a haven for adventure and sports enthusiasts. With its world-renowned motorsports complex, it's perfect for those looking to indulge in thrilling activities. While the hotels here are a bit farther from Downtown Birmingham, options like Hampton Inn Pell CityOpens in a new window stand out as a 2.5-star hotel that caters to adventure lovers and business travelers alike, featuring a range of adventure sports activities. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Pell City, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, another 2.5-star hotel, is tailored for business needs with ample meeting space. Finally, Comfort Suites Pell City I-20 exit 158Opens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, offers essential business amenities for travelers looking to mix work and play.

Things to do in Downtown Birmingham for first time

Three days in Downtown Birmingham offers a vibrant mix of cultural experiences, from lively theaters to engaging live music. Explore nearby parks and scenic areas for outdoor activities like hiking or boating, while enjoying the dynamic entertainment scene that makes this city a must-visit destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Downtown Birmingham:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Sloss Furnaces, a historical site that showcases Birmingham’s industrial past. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of iron production in the area. Next, make your way to the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, where you can celebrate the achievements of Alabama’s sports legends through engaging exhibits. Afterward, stroll over to the Windham Building, an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Take a moment to admire its stunning façade and perhaps grab a coffee at a nearby café to reflect on your day.
• Day 2: Start your day surrounded by nature at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, where you can wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the tranquility. Following your visit, head to the Dr. A. M. Brown House, an elegant structure that tells the story of Birmingham’s historic homes. Finally, make your way to the iconic Vulcan Statue, the largest cast iron statue in the world. Climb to the observation tower for panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect photo opportunity to capture your time in Birmingham.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Vulcan Park and Museum, where you can explore the history behind the statue and learn about Birmingham’s significance in the iron and steel industry. Afterward, take a trip to Rickwood Field, the oldest surviving baseball park in America, where you can soak in the nostalgia of America’s pastime. Wrap up your day at the Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens, where you can take a guided tour of this historic mansion and enjoy the beautiful gardens that surround it, providing a peaceful conclusion to your Birmingham exploration.

5 tips to find a great Downtown Birmingham hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Downtown Birmingham is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates drop significantly. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure the best prices. To truly experience the city's highlights, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. This budget-friendly approach allows you to visit key attractions like museums and the library, making for a great value for money trip.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discover exciting last-minute deals to Downtown Birmingham by checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. Here, you could find great discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and special promotions. This way, you're more likely to seize fantastic opportunities and enjoy your stay in Downtown Birmingham without breaking the bank.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Downtown Birmingham.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, think about your location. Staying near key attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable rates, consider looking for hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Downtown Birmingham and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Downtown Birmingham

Here are some must-try dishes in Downtown Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America:

• Fried Chicken: In Downtown Birmingham, fried chicken is a beloved dish, often featuring a crispy, golden-brown coating with a juicy interior. Locals enjoy it served with sides like coleslaw and mashed potatoes, making it a staple at family gatherings and Sunday dinners.
• Barbecue Ribs: Barbecue ribs are a must-try in Birmingham, where slow-cooked, smoked meats are an art form. These tender ribs are typically slathered in a tangy, homemade barbecue sauce, reflecting the region’s rich culinary heritage and inviting you to savor the smoky flavors in a relaxed, social setting.
• Cornbread: Cornbread is a traditional Southern side that perfectly complements many dishes in Downtown Birmingham. Often served warm and slightly sweet, it’s the ideal accompaniment to fried chicken or ribs, embodying the comforting, home-cooked essence of Southern cuisine.

Best time to go to Downtown Birmingham

Downtown Birmingham experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 43.3°F (6.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.1°F (26.7°C). March tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Downtown Birmingham are March, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.