A Few Facts about Birmingham, Alabama

Founded in 1871, the city of Birmingham soon blossomed into an industrial center and was known for its iron and steel production. Birmingham's early growth was so rapid and dramatic that it was nicknamed "The Magic City."  Because of its rapid growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Birmingham has an international flavor and ethnic diversity that are unusual in the South. This diversity has been enhanced in the last two decades by the phenomenal growth of UAB, which is now the area's largest employer. The population of the metropolitan area is now almost a million people, making Birmingham large enough to be cosmopolitan, yet small enough to navigate easily.  Historically known for steel and iron production, Birmingham's economy now includes both manufacturing and service industries, especially health care.  Although it enjoys a generally mild Southern climate, Birmingham enjoys all four seasons. The weather allows residents and visitors to enjoy the city's wide variety of attractions such as year-round golf on top-notch courses including the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, terrific restaurants and shopping, jazz clubs, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the Birmingham Zoo, Oak Mountain State Park, and Alabama Adventure, one of the country's newest amusement parks.
 
Still growing today, this city of nearly one million people has developed into a comfortable blend of cosmopolitan urban area and friendly Southern town.  It's an energetic, exciting environment full of things to do, and it's all right at your front door.  If you like the great outdoors, you’ll discover beautiful mountains, forests, and lakes just outside the city.  Tee off at 15 public golf course, or picnic in more than 70 city parks, including the Birmingham Zoo and Botanical Gardens. If you’re in the mood to explore a little further, you’re a few hours away from Atlanta, New Orleans, the Smoky Mountains, and the Gulf beaches.  See nationally known bands at the three-day City Stages music festival.  See the world’s best theatre, music, and dance at UAB's Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center or at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex, home of the Birmingham Broadway Series. See your favorite stars under the stars at the Verizon Wireless Music Center. Live music can be seen nearly every night at the Workplay theater, featuring both nationally and regionally known acts. View one of the finest art collections in the South at the Birmingham Museum of Art.  Visit the past at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute or the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark or catch a glimpse of the future at Birmingham's interactive science museum, the McWane Center.  Catch one of UAB's 17 intercollegiate teams in action or watch Birmingham Barons baseball at the Met. Take part in an active running and cycling circuit that features events such as the Vulcan Run and mountain bike racing at Oak Mountain State Park.

A multitude of educational and professional opportunities, combined with a dynamic mix of outdoor activities, cultural events, fine dining and a mild Southern climate has recently led the U.S. Conference of Mayors to name Birmingham, America's "Most Livable City."