My first impressions after one week in Birmingham

I may be a Tuscaloosa gal, but no one feels at home in the Magic City until the barista at Revelator lets you stay in the shop an hour after it closes. After one week of living like a local, here are my thoughts.

A beautiful day in the neighborhood

Yes—I had a total Mr.Roger’s moment when I discovered the Highland Park Historic Neighborhood (I was even wearing a cardigan.) You can’t beat the dogs, gorgeous houses and proximity to bars and restaurants.

Walking the sidewalked streets under huge oak trees narrowed down my apartment from 99 neighborhoods to one. While I love being less than two miles from downtown, it’s also nice to have a relaxing haven of parks and green space to call home.

Did you know there are five national historic districts in the Highland Historic Park neighborhood?

• Country Club National District
• Hanover Circle
• Milner Heights
• Rhodes Park
• Highland Avenue

Adding a dash of culture to my week

In between shopping for end tables and hauling furniture up my stairs, I squeezed in a little time for the arts. My first stop was to see the Barbie: Dreaming of a Female Future exhibit at the Birmingham Museum of Art (I’m late to the party I know, but it was worth the wait.)

I’ve always been a fan of the BMA, but being able to pop over anytime I want and see amazing exhibits? Priceless.

I also dipped into Jim Reed Books and the Museum of Fond Memories, because who can resist going into a store with a title like that. In addition to the thousands of books, you’re greeted with odds and ends from posters to vintage toys.

The unique shop is going on 38 years—it reaffirms my love for the city’s support of the small business community.

My favorite first impression

Let me start by saying working a floor above the Pizitz Food Hall is a blessing and a curse. I don’t know if I’ll end up making any money, but I have made really good friends with the staff at mo: mo:.

I ate out A LOT my first week (Rojo three times), and I don’t think that’s going to change anytime soon. Unfortunately for my wallet, there wasn’t a single bad meal.

Drinking up the city

Beer? Wine? Cocktails? A drink served in a pineapple and then set on fire? Bham has it all and I’m thankful I turned 21 before moving here.

Aside from having plenty of drinking options, the creative settings of the bars make great a first impression. I mean, any place that slips me a tattoo when I order bourbon is somewhere I want to be (I’m looking at you Atomic Bar.)

During my first weekend here I heard a Grateful Dead cover band at Mom’s Basement—my dad would be so proud. Maybe it’s the “That 70’s Show” vibes or the casual coolness hanging out in a basement makes you feel, but this bar gives off the best energy.

First impression, best impression

The best part about moving here? Endless opportunity! I have a long, running list of places to go and people to see. Luckily, I have a team of Bham Nowers prepared to show me the ropes.

Help a newcomer out! What are you favorite spots in the city? Tag us on social @bhamnow!