There’s something about shopping that simply speaks to the soul. Purchases bring us joy. Acquiring items we desire makes us feel better. There’s a reason that the term “retail therapy” exists after all. There are a million different reasons why people like to get out and shop - especially when there is a central location that has all our favorite stores in one place. Fortunately for the people living in Central Alabama, we have a multitude of shopping centers to get all our browsing and buying desires satisfied in one location. Here are just a few of our favorite places around Birmingham to exchange dollars for goods and services.
The Outlet Shops of Grand River
If you’re looking for an ideal outdoor mall shopping experience in the Greater Birmingham Metro, look no further than The Outlet Shops of Grand River. The Leeds-based shopping center is centered around dozens of fantastic shopping options including Coach, Brooks Brothers, Journeys, Kay Jewelers, Kate Spade, Puma, Polo, and Mountain High Outfitters. Great food selections are located inside the central part of the mall along with fun options like Saw’s BBQ and Neighbors. There’s also a drive-in movie theater, a selfie museum, a nearby Bass Pro Shop, and last but certainly not least a Buc-ee’s right down the road. Talk about a good time!
The Summit
While we deservedly hyped up the outdoor shopping experience found at Grand River, we simply can’t forget the landmark open air shopping experience that solidified Birmingham as a shopping destination. Yes, I’m talking about The Summit. The wide range of stores located inside The Summit’s premises includes REI, Ann Taylor, Lululemon, Sephora, Mac, and Tory Burch. Throw in a recently renovated movie theater and some great restaurants like Chuy’s, Chop’t, Village Tavern, Blue Sushi Sake Grill, and plenty others and you’ve got yourself a great day out exploring the town.
Mercantile on Morris
If you’re looking for a fun collective of shops in the heart of Downtown, we’d highly recommend checking out the beautiful Mercantile on Morris. Located between 1st Avenue North and Morris Avenue, this assortment of stores contains everything from men’s fashion at Bridge + Root to leather goods at Hide & Hunter to art from Scott Miller Projects and a medley of fun and resourceful items at Lifelyles Gifts & Interiors. There are also great dining options including Pizza Grace and Cannella Gelato.
Downtown Homewood
Just over the hill from Birmingham to the rear of The Vulcan sits the bustling community of Homewood, and in the heart of this happening city is a very lively shopping district full of shops of all shapes and sizes. Alabama Goods offers locally made treasures while Penzeys Spices has some of the best flavor enhancers known to man, and both are walking distance to some of the finest clothing boutiques you’ll find across the metro. Little Professor is nearby for the literary lovers and there are plenty of great food options to be found as well.
As you can see, there is a lot of great shopping to be found in the Magic City. All you have to do is pick a place and enjoy all that comes with it!
Cover image from The Summit
