Your guide to 48 bars near downtown Birmingham, including 4 exciting bars coming soon

Bar
Planning a night out? (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Making plans for a fun evening out in Birmingham? We’ve got you covered with a guide to cocktail bars, lounges, gastropubs and everything in-between in and around downtown Birmingham.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a night out visiting one (or all!) of these Birmingham-area bars, choose a designated driver or download a ride-sharing app such as Uber, Lyft or Birmingham On-Demand beforehand!

Rooftop Bars

1. The Roof at The Redmont Hotel

Redmont
Bham Now Team members enjoying happy hour at The Roof. (Matthew Niblett / Bham Now)

Enjoy vibrant cocktails with a stunning view of Birmingham’s skyline at The Roof. Located at the top of The Redmont Hotel, this rooftop bar serves up seasonally- and locally-inspired cocktails with an unforgettable view.

Address: 2101 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Happy Hour: 4-6PM

2. Moon Shine at The Elyton Hotel

Moonshine
Check out that spectacular view. (Moon Shine at the Elyton Hotel)

Located 17 floors above street level at The Elyton Hotel in downtown Birmingham, Moon Shine is a rooftop bar perfect for all social occasions. Enjoy specially-crafted cocktails and small bites, perfect for sharing.

Address: 1928 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Cocktail Bars

3. The Louis

Louis bar pizitz
Grabbing drinks at The Louis. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Located inside The Pizitz Food Hall, The Louis offers 12 beers on tap, a large wine selection and plenty of craft cocktails. Plus, you can grab a bite at any of The Pizitz Food Hall’s restaurants while you’re there.

Address: 1821 2nd Ave N, Ste 194, Birmingham, AL 35203

4. Parkside on Fifth

Parkside on Fifth
Parkside on Fifth. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

A recent addition to the Birmingham bar scene, Parkside on Fifth is a delightfully charming bar and cafe serving up specialty cocktails on draft, delicious bites from the minds behind hotbox and more.

Address: 4036 5th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222

Read more about Parkside on Fifth.

5. The Marble Ring

The Marble Ring
(The Marble Ring)

Named the best hidden bar in Alabama, The Marble Ring is a legendary speakeasy hidden in Avondale. Once you find it, you’ll never want to leave—so make sure to bring your friends.

Address: 430 41st St S, Ste B, Birmingham, AL 35222

6. Juniper

Juniper
Inside Juniper, a new bar & eatery in Birmingham’s Forest Park neighborhood. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

Located in Forest Park, Juniper is a new bar specializing in gin-focused cocktails and mouth-watering American cuisine, including small plates and dinner items. Visit during happy hour for $6 Jasmin Gimlet, French 75 and house Gin & Tonics, plus half off all wines!

Learn more about Juniper, Forest Park’s newest + most gorgeous bar.

Address: 3811 Clairmont Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222
Happy Hour: Monday through Friday from 4PM to 6PM

7. Cayo Coco

Cayo Coco
(Matthew Niblett / Bham Now)

Take a tropical vacation without leaving the 205 by paying a visit to Cayo Coco. This Cuban-inspired rum bar offers food and drink inspired by classic Cuban and Latin favorites.

Address: 2015 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

8. Paper Doll

Paper Doll Bar, Aperol Spritz
(Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Located in Birmingham’s Loft District, Paper Doll offers a luxurious and comfortable atmosphere with a collection of quality, hand-crafted cocktails.

Learn more about Paper Doll.

Address: 2320 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

9. Queen’s Park

Queen's Park, Strawberry Daiquiri-4
Queen’s Park’s Strawberry Daiquiri. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Just a short walk away from Paper Doll sits Queen’s Park, a Birmingham favorite for classic cocktails in a classy environment. Queen’s Park was recently named the home of the best cocktails in Alabama in Tasting Table’s “Where To Get The Best Cocktails in Every State” list.

Address: 112 24th St N, #102, Birmingham, AL 35203

10. The Collins Bar

The Collins
The iconic umbrellas outside of The Collins. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

At The Collins Bar, you never quite know what you’re going to get—because each cocktail is made specifically for YOU. Simply tell your bartender the flavors and vibes you want from your cocktail, and they will craft your speciality drink—just like you imagined.

Address: 2125 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Happy Hour: 4-6PM

11. Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar

Pilcrow
Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Hidden beneath Founder’s Station in downtown Birmingham is Pilcrow, a cocktail cellar specializing in agave spirits. This underground destination is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Address: 2015 1st Ave N, #1e, Birmingham, AL 35203

12. Mayawell

Mayawell Bar, mocktail
The Chef’s Kiss mocktail from Mayawell Bar. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

If you’re craving a refreshing tequila cocktail, Mayawell Bar should be high on your list. Located between Lakeview and Pepper Place, Mayawell offers refreshing agave spirits and cocktails in a beautiful environment.

Address: 2900 4th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

13. The Fennec

The Fennec 8 Your guide to 48 bars near downtown Birmingham, including 4 exciting bars coming soon
Live music at The Fennec. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

You don’t have to drive to Nashville to hear talented live music. Try refreshing cocktails and delicious bites while you listen to live music at The Fennec—a newly-opened entertainment venue in Parkside.

Read more about The Fennec.

Address: 1630 2nd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

Lounge Bars

14. Plum Bar

If you’re looking for live entertainment on any given night, look no further than Plum. This laid-back gathering space regularly hosts DJs and live Jazz musicians, so you’re always guaranteed a good time.

Address: 108 17th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

15. Cassanova Bar & Lounge

Cassanova Mckinzy
(Cecilia Wood / Bham Now)

Founded by former Auburn and NFL football player Cassanova Mckinzy, Cassanova Bar & Lounge is one of the newest openings to hit the Birmingham bar scene. With neon signs and a pink rose wall with a swing, this unique spot is the perfect place to snap your latest Instagram photo.

Read more about Cassanova.

Address:  2312 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

16. Saferoom Lounge Bar

Saferoom Lounge Bar
(Safe Room Lounge)

You’re guaranteed a fun night at the Safe Room Lounge Bar in downtown Birmingham. This upscale, basement-style lounge is the perfect spot for locals and visitors to unwind after a long week.

Address: 2008 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Dive Bars

17. Mom’s Basement

Mom's Basement
(Mom’s Basement)

You haven’t been to Mom’s Basement? Shhh, don’t tell anyone! This retro-themed dive bar is a popular hang for the younger adult crowd and has all the vintage pinball machines, pool tables, dart boards and more the younger crowd needs.

Address: 4411 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222

18. Club South

CLub South
Getting served by Darth Vader at Club South!(Club South)

Open since 1986, Club South is a stable of the Southside/Glen Iris area. This charming neighborhood bar is a local college student favorite.

Address: 1102 10th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205

19. Oasis

Oasis
(Oasis)

Open 24/7, Oasis offers nightly live music from various local artists. Find daily drink specials, dart boards and large TVs for watching the big game.

Address: 2807 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

20. Marty’s PM

Marty's PM
Taylor Hollingsworth performing at Marty’s PM. (Marty’s PM)

When you want a late-night bite or drink, Marty’s PM has your back. This Five Points South bar has been a popular spot for cold drinks, late night food and live music since 1993.

Address: 1813 10th Ct S, Birmingham, AL 35205

21. Neon Moon

I’m no dancer, but even I know the best dance floor in all of Birmingham is located at the one-and-only Neon Moon. Whether you’re there to dance, sing karaoke or sip a refreshing beverage, there’s something for everyone here.

Read more about Neon Moon.

Address: 2316 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

22. The Nick

The Nick
(The Nick)

For live music and cold drinks that can’t be beat, look no further than The Nick. “Birmingham’s Dirty Little Secret” has been around since 1982 and has achieved legendary status among local bar-goers. According to BhamWiki, famous artists including the Red Hot Chili Peppers, 311, Black Flag, Jane’s Addiction, the Black Crowes, Widespread Panic and more have performed concerts here

Address: 2514 10th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205

23. The Margaret

The Margaret
The Margaret in downtown Birmingham. (Pat Byington / Bham Now)

In 2021, Birmingham ached to learn that downtown favorite The Atomic would be closing its doors. However, a new bar soon sprang up in its place: say hello to The Margaret. This new neighborhood bar concept comes from Pam Stallings, the longtime proprietor of The Nick, and is named in honor of Stallings’ mother who passed away in 2020.

Read more about The Margaret.

Address: 2113 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

24. Nana Funks

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYNNcRFrLXR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Kick off the weekend with Nana Funks! This late-night bar and dance club offers delicious drinks and plays all your favorite dance tunes.

Address: 708 29th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233

25. The Vault Bar and Lounge

The Vault
The Vault. (Nathan Watson)

Located along 3rd Avenue North in downtown Birmingham is The Vault, a “dark and cozy lounge with a bank-vault theme.” Come for jazz tunes, classy vibes and delicious drinks.

Address: 1920 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

26. Tin Roof

Tin Roof
Grabbing post-work drinks with friends? Sounds like it’s time to visit Tin Roof. (Tin Roof)

Get a taste of Music City when you visit Tin Roof in Lakeview. This Nashville-based chain is known for live music, good food and refreshing drinks.

Address: 2709 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

27. Innisfree Irish Pub

Irish
Innisfree Irish Pub. (Lauren Bedford / Bham Now)

Whether you’re there for a normal night out or for their biggest celebration of the year—St. Patrick’s Day—you’re guaranteed to have fun at Innisfree Irish Pub. Visit for all the Guinness, Jameson and other Irish favorites you could ask for.

Address: 710 29th St S, #2810, Birmingham, AL 35233

28. Sidebar

Sidebar
Did you know Sidebar hosts annual volleyball tournaments? (Sidebar)

Whether you swing by for a relaxing afternoon drink or stay late with friends, Sidebar has everything you need. Lounge on the weatherproof patio, outside by the sandbar or dance the night away on the dance floor.

Come by during Happy Hour for $2.50 Basic Domestic Bottles, $3.50 Well Drinks and $1 off Draft Beers!

Address: 2929 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

29. Derby Bar & Grill

Derby
Karaoke at the Derby has become a Bham Now tradition. (Nathan Watson)

Got a hankering to sing karaoke? It’s time to visit the Derby. Enjoy cold drinks, play pool at one of their pool tables or take to the stage to sing your own rendition of ABBA’s “Dancing Queen”.

Address: 3630 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222

30. The Garage

The Garage
(The Garage)

When you want to catch up with friends without having to yell over loud dance music, visit The Garage. This bar and sandwich shop opened in 2014 and has become a beloved attraction in Southside. If you’re hungry, try The Fritz—a sandwich made with everything but the kitchen sink!

Pro Tip: Bring cash—The Garage doesn’t accept cards! (It’s okay if you forget; they have an ATM)

Read more about The Garage.

Address: 2304 10th Terrace S, Birmingham, AL 35205

31. Lou’s Pub & Package Store

Lou's Pub
(Lou’s Pub & Package Store)

Both a liquor store AND a bar, Lou’s Pub & Package Store is a popular late-night hang for residents in Southside.

Address: 726 29th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233

32. Dave’s Pub

Redmont Vodka
A bartender at Dave’s Pub making the “Alley-Oop Mule” with Redmont Vodka. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

Just a block up the street from Lou’s is Dave’s Pub, a popular bar located on the ground floor of the Terrace Court apartments in Five Points South. This fixture of Five Points offers cocktails, draft beers and live music.

Address: 1128 20th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205

33. Upside Down Plaza

Upside Down
The Upside Down Plaza sign at the entrance of the dive bar. (Pat Byintong / Bham Now)

One of Birmingham’s oldest dive bars, the Upside Down Plaza has been a staple of the Magic City for six decades. Originally located in a small, circular building below the Highland Plaza Shopping Center, the Upside Down Plaza has since moved to the basement of the Pickwick Plaza in Five Points South. 

Read more about the Upside Down Plaza.

Address: 2012 Magnolia Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205

34. Mojo Pub

79491814 1337238906483470 7768845115517217059 n Your guide to 48 bars near downtown Birmingham, including 4 exciting bars coming soon
Mojo Pub in Lakeview. (Mojo Pub)

Find a fantastic selection of liquor, beer and wine plus live music from Tuesday to Saturday each week at Mojo Pub. This compact Lakeview pub is the perfect spot to enjoy craft beer and tunes.

Address: 2801 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

35. Munchies on 5th

Munchies Bar and Grill
Munchies on 5th. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

Munchies on 5th, a new bar and grill located in the former Munchies Food Store, officially opened earlier this year in Avondale. With great drinks, tasty food and entertainment—including karaoke and a mechanical bull—Munchies is always a worthwhile experience.

Read more about Munchies on 5th.

Address: 4100 5th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222
Happy Hour: 11AM-8PM

Gastropubs

36. Carrigan’s Public House

Carrigan's
(Art Meripol / Carrigan’s Public House)

Located on Morris Avenue, Carrigan’s Public House is a popular spot for post-work drinks and snacks—especially here at the Bham Now office. Pro Tip: Visit on Monday for Carrigan’s PB&J Special—Pizza, Beer & Juice (your choice of any well shot) for 10 bucks.

Address: 2430 Morris Ave, Birmingham, AL 35203

37. Carrigan’s Beer Garden

Carrigan's
(Carrigan’s Beer Garden)

Located in Lakeview, Carrigan’s Beer Garden is a go-to for food, beer, wine and cocktails. Enjoy the night under the rain-proof outdoor patio.

Address: 2910 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

38. Todd English P.U.B.

Todd English
(Todd English P.U.B.)

Four-time James Beard Award winner and celebrity chef Todd English is behind the Public Urban Bar experience at Todd English P.U.B. in Uptown. Try timeless and traditional comfort foods, an expansive bar and the exciting Uptown entertainment district.

Address: 2221 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203

39. Steel Gastropub

Steel Gastropub
Your go-to for cocktails and grub in Lakeview. (Steel Gastropub)

Find elevated pub fair and craft beer at Steel Gastropub, an eclectic and funky bar in Lakeview next to Hattie B’s.

Address: 2808 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

40. The Lumbar

The Lumbar, mocktail
Summer Blitz mocktail from The Lumbar. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Located in historic Pepper Place, The Lumbar celebrates science with monthly science talks, happy hours and special events paying homage to discoveries that propelled the world forward. Oh, and they serve up great cocktails and food!

Address: 212 29th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233

Wine Bars

41. Freddy’s Wine Bar

bham nowies
Enjoying a cheese plate with wine—can you name a better afternoon activity? (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Find special small-plate offerings and a stellar wine list at Freddy’s Wine Bar along Highland Avenue in Birmingham. Open since 2018, Freddy’s aims to bring European wining and dining concepts to The Magic City.

Address: 2251 Highland Ave, Birmingham, AL 35205

42. Aviné

Wine
The perfect pairings. (Bham Now)

Find small bites, cocktails and an impressive selection of wines at Aviné in Birmingham’s Loft District. This downtown favorite opened in 2020.

Address: 2225 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

43. The Wine Loft

Wine Loft
(The Wine Loft)

This upscale wine bar in downtown Birmingham is mostly reserved for private events, however, The Wine Loft is open to the public Wednesday evenings from 5:30PM to 9:30PM. Come by to try a selection of over 70 wines by the glass and 200+ by the bottle from around the world.

Address: 2200 1st Ave N, #100, Birmingham, AL 35203

44. Red or White

Red or White
Enjoying wine at Red or White. (Matthew Niblett / Bham Now)

Located in Forest Park, Red or White is a popular stop for wine and delicious eats including wood-fired pizzas. Plus, you can pick up your favorite bottle if you want to take the party home!

Read more about Red or White.

Address: 3916 Clairmont Ave, Birmingham, AL 35222

BONUS: News Bars Coming to Birmingham

45. Adios Margarita Bar

The Dagny / Adios Margarita Bar
(Matthew Niblett / Bham Now)

A new bar will soon open on 1st Avenue North. Say hello to Adios Margarita Bar! Adios is the latest project from Jesus Mendez (of The Louis Bar and Unos Tacos) and Vinh Trahn (of Ono Poké), and is expected to open in late May.

Read more about Adios Margarita Bar.

Address: 2218 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

46. The House of Found Objects

The House of Found Objects is the latest project from local bar owner Feizal Valli who previously founded The Atomic Bar and Lounge. This new cocktail bar is scheduled to open later this year, and we can’t wait to visit.

Address: 2205 2nd St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

47. Continental Drift

COntinental Drift
Keep an eye on this building in Southside—soon it’ll be home to Continental Drift. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

A new cocktail bar is coming to Southside, courtesy of the minds behind one of Birmingham’s favorite food trucks, Paradise Chow (now called Drift Kitchen). The bar promises, “fun, adventurous cocktails, nostalgia, neon and more.”

Read more about Continental Drift.

Address: 2201 7th Ave S, Birmingham AL 35233

48. Bar La Fête

Mercantile on Morris
A new bar is opening in Mercantile on Morris this year. (Olivia Moses / Bham Now)

The owners of The Essential and Bandit Patisserie have big plans for their latest venture, Bar La Fête. This Parisian-style wine bar with full kitchen will be located in Mercantile on Morris and is scheduled to open later this year.

Read more about Bar La Fête.

Address: 2212 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Phew! Did I miss your favorite Birmingham bar? (I sure hope I didn’t!) Tag us @bhamnow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn to let us know where you spend your evenings!

Nathan Watson
Nathan Watson

Senior Content Producer + Photographer

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