Dive into an adventure on Comic Book Day. Photo via Legion Comics

In the world of Marvel and DC cinema, the old fans know comic books are where a lot of our favorite stories first took shape. Comic books have become more than a thing to read—they’ve created an entire subculture of fandoms, conventions and costumes that we are here to celebrate on National Comic Book Day, September 25. We have all the details for the day on the best comics shops in Birmingham, and their rarest items.

1. Sanctum Tattoos and Comics

At Sanctum comics, you can find your new favorite comic and get a brand new tattoo in the same place. Although my fear of needles is keeping me from getting any ink just yet, I love going to browse Sanctum’s amazing selection of Marvel comics.

What’s also cool about this shop is that they have a huge online database filled with hundreds of comics available for purchase. They even have their own Spotify playlist that offers killer background tunes.

Their rarest item: Captain Marvel Jr. Issue #112 ‘1952

Location: 4410 4th Ave S B, Birmingham, AL 35222
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday Noon-7PM I Sunday Noon-4PM
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2. Legion Comics

Rows of comic books from all genres will greet you when you enter the doors of Legion Comics. Find Star Wars, Marvel and even Stranger Things lining the walls for you to discover.

They also sell a bunch of fun board games, so you can have a group comic reading and game night with you friends! I suggest going with Codenames: Marvel Edition.

Their rarest comic: Superman Issue #4 ‘1940—first appearance of Lex Luther

Location: 3246 Cahaba Heights Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243
Hours: Sunday-Tuesday & Thursday 11AM-7PM I Wednesday & Friday-Saturday 11AM-10PM
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3. Bob’s Comics

At Bob’s Comics, you can spend hours browsing through rows upon rows of comic books and still not see it all. There’s something for everyone whether you like superheroes, horror, fantasy or romance.

Head to Bob’s Comics for National Comic Book Day, and find your favorites.

Staff favorite comic: Green Lantern Issue #87 ‘1971—the first appearance of John Stewart

Location: 979 Gadsden Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35235
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11AM-6PM
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4. Jim Reed Books

Front of Reed Books Store — This doorway view of Reed Books feels similar to an “I Spy” book. Photo by Lauren Moore for Bham Now

This bookstore feels like a quirky professors workshop with colorful books piled high and fun knick-knacks decorating the walls. They have a wide assortment of comic books—both brand new and vintage.

Their rarest comic: Classics Illustrated Master of the World Jules Verne Issue #163 ‘1961