Founded in 1871 at the crossroads of two rail lines, Birmingham’s rapid rise earned it the nickname “Magic City.” Rich deposits of coal, limestone, and iron ore fueled its growth—resources that still shape both our history and our scenic mountain ridges today.

In today’s Greater Birmingham, Southern hospitality meets cosmopolitan energy. We’re a city of dreamers and doers – from the heroes of the Civil Rights movement to the artists, visionaries, and entrepreneurs who are bringing today’s Birmingham to life. You’ll see it, taste it, and feel it everywhere: in our vibrant culinary scene, our world-class entertainment, our passion for sports, and the undeniable momentum that runs through the city.

Birmingham’s central location, ease of access, and exceptional value make it the ideal setting for a memorable event, and now is the perfect time to visit and experience the region. Across our 34 communities, new hotels, restaurants, and attractions are opening their doors, adding to an ever-growing list of ways to surprise and delight visitors.

We can’t wait to welcome you.

• Find the world’s largest collection of antique and contemporary motorcycles at Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum.

• Step into the Birmingham Civil Rights District to trace the movement that changed the world.

• Take in a panoramic view of the city from Vulcan Park and Museum, and see the world’s largest cast iron statue.

• Explore Sloss Furnaces, a National Historic Landmark that is only 20th century blast furnace in the country being preserved and interpreted as a museum which typifies the first 100 years of Birmingham’s history.

• Enjoy the outdoors from Downtown’s Rotary Trail to our mountainous state parks and nature preserves like Ruffner Mountain and Red Mountain Park.

• Visit America’s oldest existing baseball park at Rickwood Field, recently honored as the site of Major League Baseball’s tribute to the Negro Leagues.

Check out our guide to Annual Events in Greater Birmingham HERE.

Nationally recognized and locally loved, Birmingham’s food and culture scene is no small feat. Named one of AFAR Media’s “Top 24 Places to Travel Worldwide in 2026“, Greater Birmingham brings MICHELIN-recognized dining, warm hospitality, local shopping, and memorable attractions together to create an experience that extends beyond the meeting room.

Birmingham is located in the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, giving the area dramatic topography. With more than a million people in the metropolitan region, this is a big city, enriched by the contributions of many cultures. With a wealth of visitor amenities, Birmingham is a popular city for groups of all sizes.

Flying to Birmingham

The Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) is Alabama’s largest airport, serving Birmingham and the surrounding region. The airport is only seven minutes from downtown, and features 100 daily flights.

Airlines: American, Delta, Southwest, United

Direct Flights: Atlanta (ATL), Baltimore-Washington (BWI), Charlotte (CLT), Chicago (MDW & ORD), Dallas (DFW & DAL), Denver (DEN), Detroit (DTW), Houston (HOU & IAH), Las Vegas (LAS), Miami (MIA), Nashville (BNA), New York (LGA), Orlando (MCO), Philadelphia (PHL), Phoenix (PHX), Tampa (TPA), and Washington D.C. (DCA).

Driving to Birmingham

Birmingham’s central location in the Southeast makes it an easily accessible convention destination. Driving, flying and traveling by train into the city are all equally accommodating.

Public Transportation

The Magic City Connector navigates through the downtown area and its attractions. The connector runs a route along 20th street from the Uptown District at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex to Downtown Homewood. Stops include the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB, the Birmingham Museum of Art and Vulcan Park & Museum. Enjoy free Wi-Fi while exploring.

MAXX On-Demand is a shared ride service that lets you book, track, and ride—all from an easy-to-use app. Great when you need a ride to or from the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.

Check out our Guide to Traveling to Greater Birmingham here.