Girls’ Trip to Birmingham, Alabama: Glam, Grit, and Good Vibes

Planning a girls’ trip to Birmingham, Alabama? This vibrant Southern city blends culture, cuisine, and connection. If brunching, boutique-hopping, and soaking up rich history sound like your thing, Birmingham delivers. As a lifelong Alabama resident, it’s been my go-to for girls’ nights and weekend fun.

What You Can Expect:

• Walkable districts like Avondale and Five Points South
• Insta-worthy murals and skyline views
• Deep historical roots
• Stylish hotels, rooftop bars, and crave-worthy eats

Pros:

• Diverse mix of activities
• More affordable than bigger cities
• Fun with cultural depth

Cons:

• Limited public transportation
• Hot, humid summers
• Some attractions close early

SheBuysTravel Tip: Download the ParkMobile app before your trip. Many areas require it for street parking, and it’ll save you time (and tickets!).

Things to Do

I always look forward to hanging out with my girls in the city. Our routine usually looks like this: Start the day with brunch and mimosas, spend the afternoon shopping at local boutiques and wrap things up by catching a live show. Birmingham always brings the vibes!

Other fun things to do in the area:

• Birmingham Civil Rights Institute – Dive into the city’s history.

• The Roof at The Redmont – Sip cocktails with panoramic city views.
• The Summit or Five Points South – Shop local boutiques to take home.
• Pepper Place Market (on Saturdays) – Shop local art, crafts, and fresh produce while enjoying live music and food trucks.

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Places to Eat

Eating and drinking with my girls in Birmingham is basically our love language. Whether we’re kicking off the day with brunch or closing it out with something sweet (and maybe a cocktail or two), this city always serves up something special.

Here are our favorite go-tos:

• The Essential – Great mimosas and house-made pastries. Charming patio.
• Trattoria Zaza – Fresh pasta and bold flavors in a lively downtown setting.
• Helen – Southern cuisine gets a modern, elegant twist. Perfect for a girls’ night dinner.
• Dread River – Distillery offering a full-service tasting room, restaurant, and event space.

Where to Stay

When it’s time to wind down (or glam up for the night), Birmingham’s hotel scene does not disappoint. These beautiful spots offer the perfect mix of comfort, style, and location for your girls’ getaway:

• The Elyton Hotel – Glam decor, luxe amenities, and a rooftop bar with city views.
• The Redmont Hotel – Timeless charm with modern touches and a rooftop that’s perfect for sunset selfies.
• Valley Hotel in Homewood – Chic, walkable, and nestled in one of Birmingham’s cutest neighborhoods.
• Grand Bohemian Hotel in Mountain Brook – Artsy, upscale, and just steps from boutique shopping and gardens.

What’s Nearby

If you want to extend your trip, check out nearby cities like Tuscaloosa for college town energy or head to the hiking trails at Oak Mountain State Park. Want more ideas? Here are a few other nearby gems perfect for a girls’ getaway:

• Ross Bridge Spa in Hoover –Stunning resort & spa, perfect for relaxation and pampering.
• The Outlet Shops of Grand River – Shop your favorite brands just 20 minutes from downtown Birmingham.
• Birmingham Botanical Gardens – Spend a serene morning exploring beautifully curated gardens.
• The Collins Bar – Known for its bespoke cocktails. Skilled bartenders craft drinks based on your preferences.

Dress Code/Specialty Items to Pack

Birmingham’s vibe feels laid-back and fun. Pack cute, comfy shoes for walking historic districts and one or two glam outfits for rooftop cocktails or a show. Summers are hot and humid, so breathable fabrics and a small portable fan will go a long way.

• Sunglasses + SPF – Protect your skin while looking fabulous.
• Crossbody bag – Keep your hands free for shopping and selfies.
• Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated on the go.
• Swimsuit + cover-up – For spa days or hotel pool hangs.
• Statement earrings + bold lipstick – For those Instagram-worthy mural pics.

Getting There

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) is just a 10-minute drive from downtown, making arrival a breeze. If you’re driving in, I-65 and I-20 provide easy access from nearby Southern cities like Atlanta, Nashville, and New Orleans. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are widely used, but renting a car is a smart option if you plan to explore areas outside the city.

Helpful Tips

• BHM has nonstop flights from most major hubs
• Downtown hotels are 5–15 minutes from the airport
• Traffic is lighter than in larger cities
• Many attractions are a short drive apart

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