The MustVisit Gems ofBirmingham

Alabama

JOHN PAUL RUNYON

Birmingham is a vibrant city full of fun activities, great food, andSouthern culture. I recently moved here and have had so much fun

exploring the special gems that this amazing city holds.Here are some of the most special things I’ve found so far:

Color Tunnel:Located in downtown Birmingham, this dreary 1930s underpass has been

transformed into a rainbow of light. The public art installation featured here, entitled“LightRails,” is meant to encourage foot traffic within the city center. These newly lit

tunnels not only give residents a safer passage at night, but also have quicklybecome a late-night place for photo ops!

Iron City:

Established as a revolutionary car facility in 1929, Iron City takes theconcept of “dinner and a show” to a whole new level! The historic space

has been redesigned as a multi-purpose venue, also popular for weddings!The venue houses three concert stages, two bars, and one restaurant.

Whether it’s a comedy act, a musical, or indie artist, there’s alwayssomething to see at this city hot spot.

Cathedral Caverns:Originally called Bat Cave,

Cathedral Caverns was openedto the public in the 1950’s. Thecave was renamed because ofits cathedral-like appearance.Inside the cavern are some ofthe most beautiful formations

Mother Nature has ever createdincluding “Goliath”- one of the

largest stalagmites in the worldmeasuring 45 feet tall and 243

feet in circumference!

Bellingrath Gardens & Home:This popular attraction is the 65-acre public garden and historic home

of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath. Walter Bellingrath was one of thefirst Coca-Cola bottlers in the Southeast and used his wealth to build

these beautiful gardens and home.

Thanks for watching!Come back and checkfor more! I will continueto post as I find moregems that this

wonderful city has tooffer!