Birmingham isn’t called the Magic City for just any old reason. This town may have popped up quickly during the industrial area, but it’s continually reinventing itself. If you’re looking a great spot to go out, have a drink, and listen to some sweet tunes, Birmingham has plenty to offer. Here are the top music venues in the Birmingham area, according to About Town’s Annual Reader’s Poll.
#5 - The BJCC
2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd., Downtown
The Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex is a sprawling entertainment hub in the heart of downtown Birmingham featuring a theatre, arena, concert hall, exhibition spaces and an outdoor stadium coming soon. Catch a Broadway show or concert in the 2,800-seat Concert Hall, check out one of the many impressive events that take place in the Exhibition Hall or join up to 18,000 screaming fans in Legacy Arena (currently under renovation) for large-scale concerts and events like monster truck rallies. Lots of excitement if focused on the $174 million open-air, multi-use Protective Stadium, expected to be completed in 2021. The 45,000-seat stadium will be home to the UAB Blazers football team and provide a location for Birmingham to host major sporting and entertainment events. Adjacent to the complex are two hotels and the Uptown District, filled with convenient dining and entertainment. To check out upcoming events and purchase tickets, visit bjcc.org.
#4 - Alabama Theatre
Address: 1817 3rd Ave N, Downtown
Nicknamed “Showplace of the South,” the Alabama Theatre has been a staple of downtown Birmingham since 1927, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. With a look straight of the Great Gatsby, you’ll be dazzled by the beautiful architecture and exceptional acoustics inside, with capacity for more than 2,000 patrons. The theatre boasts an enticing roster of live music concerts, classic movie screenings, symphonies, ballets, and can even be rented for weddings and dance performances. A special unique feature of the theatre is the Amazing Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, which regularly plays a part in performances. To see all upcoming events and reserve your tickets today, visit alabamatheater.com.
#3 - Saturn
200 41st St S, Avondale
Located in Birmingham’s Avondale neighborhood, walking into Saturn makes you feel like you've taken a step back in time. With a capacity of 500, Saturn hosts a variety of music acts and is a favorite wedding reception location. The venue features a full-service bar with extensive beer offerings and cocktails crafted by some of the best professional bartenders in town. When you’re not enjoying the retro feel of the music venue, you can enjoy the array of games Saturn has to offer, including gaming consoles, dozens of board games, pinball machines, and more! For a list of upcoming events and ticket prices, visit saturnbirmingham.com.
#2 - Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
1000 Amphitheater Rd, Pelham
If you’re looking to enjoy a concert under the open sky, Oak Mountain Amphitheatre has your ticket. Owned by Live Nation, Oak Mountain is Alabama’s largest outdoor music venue and holds over 10,500 fans. You can catch headliners in one of three tiers that all provide outstanding views of the stage. Those who’ve lived in the area for decades may recall paying general admission to sit on the grass, but now all seats are reserved. Your standard concert fare of food and beverages are available for sale with no outside beverages allowed. To check out upcoming events and purchase tickets, visit theoakmountainampitheater.com.
#1 - Iron City Bham
513 22nd St S, Birmingham
With a spacious open dance floor, delicious drinks, and rockin’ bands, it's not hard to see why Iron City was voted Birmingham’s best music venue. Featuring a wide variety of acts on a tremendous stage and standing room for 1300 fans, there’s a little something for everyone at Iron City. If you’re looking for a great spot to watch your favorite band, you can reserve a table in the mezzanine area for comfortable seating and a premier view or you can pack in with the crowd on the floor. While you’re there, grab drinks and a bite to eat at Iron City Grill. Tickets can be purchased through IronCityBham.com or at the Iron City Box Office.
