Magic City Art Connection is a very special event that brings together artists from all around the…read moreSoutheast. Entrance this year was $15. Even if you only utilize this event as a gallery viewing, the cost is well worth it. The creativity of some people is mind-blowing. There were dozens (hundreds? I'm not great at estimating numbers) of booths of all kinds of media, including painting/drawing/visual, jewelry, sculpture, and more. I purchased a coffee mug from an artist whose designs were inspired by the events of 9/11 and technique was derived from Ancient Greece. I also purchased a necklace from an artist whose techniques included some from Korean tradition that melded together gold and silver. Truly beautiful. These items were evidently made with great care and quality materials. I felt that the prices were extremely reasonable. There are several activities within the Art Connection that would be fun for children and are included in the cost of entrance. My friend and I stopped by the Amor booth and made beaded bracelets. There are food vendors in and around the Art Connection, but the lines were quite long! All in all, would recommend, and the weather was perfect this year!

It's been a couple of years since we'd attended MCAC, but we went this year because a friend…read moresuggested Corks & Chefs. It was GREAT. The parking was easy. Check in took a minute, but was well organized. Corks & Chefs was fabulous and turned us on to some new venues (and taught us more about tequila!). The vendors were super high quality and friendly. There were local folks displaying their wares in addition to regional and even national folks. I attend a fair amount of "craft festivals", but this was beyond that in level of quality. Really a fine group of assembled craftspeople. Thanks ONB!

We used to visit this store quite often. Have bought several items there such as lamps, side…read morechairs, dining room group, etc. We moved from Calera to Fultondale a few years back and didn't visit for a while. When we did go back recently the store had a bit of a remodel. It was nice, but just did not have the same feel as before. Prices on items tended to be a bit more hefty and the selection seemed more, how can I say,... "tan?" We went on a Saturday, which used to be a very busy time for them. But this time the store only had a couple of shoppers. Just couldn't put my finger on it, but it just didn't seem as interesting or inviting. The staff seemed a bit standoffish as well. I suspect if we are back down that way, we may stop by. Just don't think this will be a planned destination any longer.

Could not find any resale. Lots of "chip and Joanna" looking stuff with finance signs everywhere…read more Not much value here.

We decided to visit the museum to see their 'Monet to Matisse' exhibit. I checked occasionally in…read morethe week leading up to our visit. Their website displays how many tickets are remaining for the day. I wanted to ensure this wasn't selling out for our day, in which case I'd have bought tickets in advance online. However, they still showed over 1000 tickets available the day before, so I opted to just buy them at the museum. We had issues with navigation in Birmingham already, and those continued en route to the museum. For whatever reason, the app directed us over a mile beyond downtown and then had us get off the highway, cross the overpass, and double back (?). We actually switched apps a bit later as we were sure there was an issue. We eventually found the museum, though. It wasn't obvious from the front, but apparently the museum does have its own free parking lot behind the building. We ended up parking in a deck a few blocks away, but thankfully that only ended up costing us $3. The museum is normally free for entry, I believe. Donations are encouraged. However, for special travelling exhibits, there was a charge (about $25 per person). This was handled at a kiosk just outside the exhibit. We toured the exhibit and enjoyed it. Works were arranged in 3 large rooms. It was crowded, but manageable. After seeing that, we opted to check out some of the permanent collection before leaving. On the upper level (where we were) there are several rooms devoted to Asian arts (samurai armor from Japan, jade and buddha statues from China, etc.). Korea and India were also represented. If we'd had more time, we would have explored more on this floor. We descended to the first floor and checked out some of the European galleries as well as the end of the wing that is devoted to American art. They had interesting works on all these areas. If I lived in the area, I'd likely come here to check out the permanent collection. Maybe we'll be back at some point to see more of it. This was well worth stopping by if you like art. (I will limit my photos to the permanent collection.)

I finally made my way into the Birmingham Museum of Art after driving past it for years like,…read more"Yeah, I'll get to that one day..." Well, that day finally came--and turns out, I've been sleeping on a gem this whole time. First off, free admission? That'll get your attention quicker than a "buy one get one" sign. But seriously, this place is legit. It may not be on the scale of New York City or Chicago, but it absolutely punches above its weight. Birmingham quietly flexing, and I respect it. I started out in the sculpture garden, and with it being spring, the blooming dogwood trees added a layer of nostalgia that hit just right. Between the flowers, the fresh air, and the artwork, it was one of those "slow down and take it in" moments. Not bad for a place I used to ignore at red lights--or even flying past it doing 80 on 59/20. Inside, the collections are surprisingly deep and diverse. European, American, African, Asian--you name it. I spent a good bit of time in the African galleries, which meant a lot to me having traveled to Tanzania several times. It's one thing to read about cultures, but seeing the art up close brings a whole different level of appreciation. They also had a traveling exhibit featuring Claude Monet, and I'll just say--pictures don't do that justice. The way he plays with light and color is something you've got to see in person. The Renaissance pieces were another highlight, especially the Madonna and Child panels. You can actually see the craftsmanship in the materials--it makes you realize these artists weren't just talented, they were patient... like next-level patient. There's also a really cool mix of American artwork that captures early Alabama life. One painting in particular shows a whole social scene--different classes, different backgrounds--all in one place. It's like a historical snapshot, and honestly, probably more accurate than some of the stories we've all heard growing up. Now let's talk about the staff--because that matters. Every person I interacted with was friendly, welcoming, and actually knew their stuff. I asked a few questions, and instead of getting a quick "I think so," I got detailed answers that made the experience even better. That's the kind of thing you remember. Swing by the gift shop or grab a snack on the second floor--they're ready to welcome you. What I appreciated most was how the museum connects everything. You walk through different cultures, different time periods, and somehow it all ties back to the same themes--faith, identity, daily life, legacy. Makes you realize people haven't changed all that much... we've just gotten better at Wi-Fi. Walking out, I couldn't help but laugh a little--I've passed this place for years and had no idea what I was missing. Safe to say, I won't make that mistake again. In fact, this was my second visit in less than a month. If you're local or just passing through Birmingham, this place is absolutely worth your time. Take it from someone who learned the hard way--don't wait as long as I did. Well done, Birmingham!

There's the museum, sculpture garden, and large park all in one area. This is a must visit place -…read moreand it doesn't feel touristy. Interesting, unique art and cool views of the city in a relaxed, green space. It looks amazing. One of the first places I ever visited in the Cities. The sculpture garden is one of my favorite places.

The Hoover Antique Gallery is the mall for you if you're interested in purchasing large antique…read morefurniture, or beautiful lamps, or crystal, or classic artwork and books from various Vendors renting booths throughout the gallery. The majority of the furnishings appear to be high quality cherrywood; so, the value is high end versus low. Even though I didn't check out the price ranges of the furnishings, I feel certain that the Vendors will work with you, or at least, I hope so. I did purchase a small item, and it turned out to be half price at the register, which was a nice surprise. And the two individuals at the register were pleasant. The gallery is easy enough to find and there's plenty of parking.

Pretty good, prices are a little higher in comparison to some other places, although you can…read moreoccasionally find of some good deals here. I feel like most of the merch is more traditional vs industrial or mcm so I think it caters towards the older crowd.

I had such a wonderful experience at Hanging Around Hoover. Michael framed a painting for me and it…read moreturned out fabulous!! He was patient while I decided what frame to use and when I mentioned it was for my hubby's birthday, put a rush on the job. It was ready just in time! I'm so pleased and would recommend him to anyone needing to have something framed.

Have a commendation from Pres. Trump/VP Vance there being framed now. You won't find a better place…read moreif quality of the work and aesthetic beauty are important to you.

I love this place! never know what you will find and it is intriguing. Never fails to inspire new…read morecreative projects.

The Craft Room in Homewood opened just about a week and a half ago. I've already been here twice…read more Once for their grand opening celebration and once when friends and I were just in town. It is a second hand craft store where you can donate your gently used/extra craft supplies for store credit or purchase other supplies you like. They also teach some craft classes here and have snacks and drinks if you want to work on a craft here in their makerspace.

The cutest book store tucked inside of a strip mall. I've passed by so many times and never thought…read moreto pop in. Found them on IG where they showcase writers and book clubs. Lots of great picks to find your next read. I grabbed a new book and loved pursuing the shelves. Will be coming back!!

Fantastic local bookstore. Has an outstanding curated selection and a knowledgeable and helpful…read morestaff. I'll be a regular here from now on.