After five years in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Pizitz Food Hall has become a mainstay among the weekday lunch crowd, as well as weekenders enjoying a day of activity in the Magic City.

The bustling building hosts an array of businesses, ranging from the state’s only Warby Parker outpost to a full bar and an independent movie theater.

With 12 food stalls, a full-service restaurant, and another on the way, there’s always something different to taste at Pizitz. Here’s what’s new and coming soon to one of Birmingham’s favorite gathering spots.

The Spun Cow

The departure of founding Pizitz foodstall Lichita’s left an ice cream-sized hole in the heart of dessert loving Birminghamians. But earlier this month, Nashville-based dessert shop The Spun Cow filled that by opening their first Alabama location in the Pizitz. The stall specializes in artisan ice cream, hand-blended old-fashioned milkshakes, floats, and the big kicker—seasonally changing fresh-spun cotton candy. Choose from 15 flavors of ice cream including classics like mint chocolate chip, milk chocolate, and strawberry, plus more unusual options like mango, cheesecake, banana pudding, and, fittingly, cotton candy.

Tina & Gina’s

The food hall’s newest resident brings a taste of the Big Apple to Birmingham by way of local Christina Harrison. In mid-April, Harrison opened New York style deli I Love Tina & Gina’s in the former Mo:Mo space. The restaurant honors her mother Gina and grandmother Tina, both of whom were raised in Long Island, New York. Authentic sandwich specials include the Boogie Down Bronx Chopped Cheese featuring ground chuck, caramelized onions, American cheese, and garlic aioli on a King’s Hawaiian roll, as well as the Tommy Pastrami packed full of top-round pastrami, melted Swiss cheese, housemade slaw, and creamy Russian dressing on rye bread. All sandwiches feature Boar’s Head meat and cheeses. 

ThirsTea Café

For years, Birmingham bubble tea lovers have been making the trek down Highway 280 for their fill of the highly popular Taiwanese drink. At the beginning of this year, ThirsTea owners Hugo and Delanie Anguiano answered the longtime request of many locals by opening a second location in Pizitz. Now bubble tea enthusiasts can get their delicious milk teas, fruit teas, smoothies, and slushes in the heart of downtown Birmingham. Since February, the second location has been serving up favorites like the taro smoothie with classic boba, as well as creative monthly specials like April’s strawberry lemon mint fruit tea, roasted oolong milk tea, and cucumber lemon mint fruit tea.

Coming Soon: SOCU Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar

In addition to its 12 food stalls, Pizitz is also home to two full-service restaurant spaces. One is occupied by local favorite café Ashely Mac’s, and the other will soon be upscale Southern restaurant SOCU Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar location. Helmed International Culinary Center graduate Erica Barrett, the talented chef has taken her food concepts to the national stage with appearances on Shark Tank and The Profit and has even published a cookbook of her Southern favorite dishes. Now Barrett is bringing her talents to the Magic City with a second SOCU location that features her elevated versions of Southern classic dishes like Chicken and Waffles, Shrimp and Grits, and Braised Beef Oxtails. For a full potluck experience, order a few Southern sides like Braised Collards, Bourbon Fired Candied Yams, Dirty Rice, and Charred Jalapeño Creamed Corn for the table. The new restaurant is set to open later this year.

When Delaney and Riley McIntyre were in elementary school, their parents Kellie and Dale set a goal for the family: to visit every continent except Antarctica by the time the girls graduated high school. The adventurous family figured they’d accomplish their goal during winter and summer breaks, but all that changed when they encountered a family just like theirs while on a three-week trip to Southeast Asia when Delaney and Riley were in 5th and 6th grade.

“They were carrying identical backpacks, except they were traveling for a year,” Kellie McIntyre says. “We returned home and kept talking about traveling long term, but life got in the way, and so all we did was dream, not plan. There’s a big difference. A few months later, our pastor preached a sermon about not living a life of ‘accumulating regrets.’ In that moment, Dale and I looked at each other and made a decision to do something big. Twelve months later we took off on the big trip.”

That trip turned into a five-month adventure through 12 countries across four continents, where the family of four did everything from paragliding over the Swiss Alps and bungee jumping in New Zealand to hiking Peru’s Inca Trail and dancing with the long-neck women of Myanmar.

At the time of the trip, Delaney and Riley were 14 and 12 years old. Now, at 22 and 20, Kellie says it’s still the greatest thing her family has ever done. Travel, she says, has opened a whole new world for her and her family.

“At home, we are all at the center of our universes,” she says. “But when traveling, you realize what a small piece of the puzzle you are, but it takes all the pieces to make a beautiful world. Think about how boring a puzzle would be if all the pieces were the same. Travel reveals important life lessons that cannot be learned in a classroom or by reading a book.”

After the epic journey, the McIntyres shared their travel stories through their family blog called 4 Worn Passports. McIntyre said though people often suggested she write a book, she never seriously considered taking on the challenged. All that changed when the pandemic hit in 2020.

“I was a brand-new empty nester, and I was trapped at home classified as ‘non-essential,’” she remembers. “People were so divided and scared, I just wanted to create something that would unify rather than divide. I also knew that I had an essential story to tell about the life lessons learned through travel.”

She started researching travel memoirs and listening to podcasts about writing. What she found was a huge gap in travel books written specifically for teens or tweens. With that new knowledge, she had the perfect formula for her book. She’d write her book from the perspective of her middle school-age daughters.

“Kids are curious about the world, and what better way for them to learn about different cultures and customs than through the real experiences of other kids,” McIntyre says. “Besides, anything written from a middle schooler’s perspective is bound to be entertaining.

McIntyre finished her first draft of the book, called “The Passport Project,” in about three months, then spent another year having it edited. She says she knew she was onto something after her eldest daughter Delaney read a draft and said she nailed the anxiety, awkwardness, and uncertainty of her middle school years.

And despite Delaney’s initial reluctance to go on the trip as an 8th grader, she couldn’t be more thankful for the experience today.

“The Passport Project” is available in paperback at Barnes and Noble, Books-A-Million, and wherever books are sold. It is also available for purchase as an e-book. Click here to order it on Amazon. 

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

In 1918, Bonnie and Livingston Paulk moved to Union Springs, Alabama with $50 and a dream to make a living off the land. They planted two pounds of cabbage seeds in their new backyard, then hauled the heads to town for sale. The business took off, and soon they began to diversify their products, planting onions, strawberries, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, eggplants, and more.

Over the next century, Bonnie Plants continued to grow. By 1935, the first Bonnie Plants greenhouses were built. By 1983, plants were sold in 13 states. A little over 10 years later, they could be found in every continental state. Today, 4,500 people work at 87 Bonnie Plants growing facilities across the country, and you can find nearly 300 plant varieties in all 50 states plus Canada.

Over the past couple of years, the pandemic has influenced every industry. Bonnie Plants was no different. Helming the change was Mike Sutterer, who became president and CEO of the company in January 2020. The 19-year veteran of Scotts MiracleGro joined Bonnie Plants at a pivotal time. In 2020, more than 21 million people tried gardening for the first time, creating a huge opportunity for growth. At the same time, businesses were being forced to shut down due to COVID-19.

“We were navigating through maintaining our status as an essential business because supply chains were taxed and grocery store shelves were empty, so people were turning to vegetable plants to secure their food source for themselves and their families,” Sutterer says. “I was spending hours on the phone every day with public office holders and policy makers to ensure we could still deliver the food plants people needed. It was a surreal time, but we also had 21 million new gardeners in 2020.”

Over the next two years, Bonnie Plants has not only weathered the storm but come out better and stronger than ever. They’ve begun offering more products, including a line of super-hot peppers made in partnership with Ed Currie, who created the Carolina Reaper.

“It sold out in 24 hours,” Sutterer says. “We had over 1,000 people on the waiting list. We think there’s a big opportunity in offering people unique flavors, textures, and colors that are easy to grow.”

They’ve partnered with Scotts MiracleGro to provide complete gardening solutions for home gardeners. But the biggest change they made was doubling down on e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales. Part of that meant creating a state-of-the-art e-commerce growing and distribution facility that would also serve as the company’s new headquarters. And when it came time to choose where, they decided to move just 50 miles down the road from where it all began. They’re now honoring the company’s Alabama roots with a new facility in Opelika, where they support a partnership with Auburn University and are quickly becoming a vital part of the Auburn-Opelika community. 

“As we evolve and grow, expanding our capabilities in e-commerce and unique genetic plants, it was important for us to stay in Alabama, which has been our home for more than 100 years,” Sutterer says.

As Bonnie Plants looks to the future, Sutterer says the goal is to not only maintain the company’s position as the number one purveyor of vegetable and herb plants, but of all live goods, including flowers, succulents, and houseplants. They also hope to expand their sustainability efforts and continue to grow their e-commerce operations.

“Our mission is to deliver any plant, anywhere, any time,” Sutterer says. “It’s an unbelievably exciting time to be at Bonnie.”

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

The Alabama Symphony Orchestra began with a group of volunteer musicians in 1921. Over the last 100 years, a small volunteer ensemble transformed into the state’s only full-time professional orchestra.

In addition to the 54 talented musicians—saxophonists, flutists, harpists, trombonists, and more—who bring the Alabama Symphony Orchestra to life, the ensemble is often accompanied by the ASO Chorus.

The orchestra plans to celebrate its 100th anniversary with special “Century in Symphony” events throughout the year. So, if you’ve never seen the orchestra perform live, now is the ideal time to check them off your Birmingham or Alabama bucket list.

For those who may feel like they’re not the “symphony type,” we’re here to dispel four common misconceptions about going to see the symphony.

It’s only for people who listen to classical music. 

While classical music enthusiasts will certainly love the symphony, they’re not the only ones who can enjoy the show. Even if you don’t listen to classical music regularly, you might find that you recognize more songs than you may think, as classical pieces are often featured in commercials, movies, and television.

However, the ASO also performs music that goes far beyond the classical genre. The SuperPOPS! Series, for example, has included performances based around the music of The Beatles, Broadway, Christmas, and more.

 My kids won’t enjoy it.  

The symphony can be a fun outing for the entire family—kids included! A symphony performance provides a unique cultural experience that can help instill an appreciation for live music at a young age, leading to a lifelong love of the arts.

If you’re worried that just listening won’t capture you child’s attention, the Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban Concert on April 9 and 10 this year is a great segue into a full-blown symphony performance. The special event features a showing of the beloved movie on the big screen with the ASO accompanying with the legendary score.

Past kid-friendly performances have also featured songs from Disney movie classics like Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, and more.

I don’t have anything to wear!

No tuxedos or gowns are required to attend the symphony. The ASO has no dress code, meaning you should wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable, whether that’s a cocktail dress and heels or jeans and a T-shirt.

The concert will be way too long. 

If you don’t feel ready to dive in with a Masterworks concert, which typically feature longer works by classical musicians like Beethoven, Bach, and Handel, there are several other performance types that are shorter and perfect for first-timers.

A holiday or movie soundtrack SuperPOPS! Performance is a great way to start. And remember, most shows feature a 20-minute intermission, so you’ll have plenty of time to stretch your legs, grab a snack or drink, then head back to enjoy the rest of the show.

Upcoming Concerts:

Ready to see what the Alabama Symphony Orchestra is all about? Here are some upcoming events and performances to get you started on your journey to becoming a “symphony person.”

SuperPOPS! Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in Concert

What: Screening of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban accompanied by the ASO performing the score live.

When: Saturday, April 9 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 10 at 2:30 p.m.

Where: BJCC Concert Hall

Tickets: $25

A Century in Symphony Tap Takeover

What: Unveiling of a brand-new Trim Tab beer commemorating ASO’s 100th anniversary, plus pop-up performances by ASO musicians, the Alabama Ballet, Opera Birmingham, Red Mountain Theatre, and more.

When: Thursday, April 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Where: Trim Tab Brewing

Tickets: $20

Mozart’s 40th Symphony & Brahms’ First Piano Concerto

What: Masterworks performance featuring iconic melodies from Mozart’s 40th Symphony, plus Steven Spooner performing Brahms’ Piano Concerto alongside the full orchestra.

When: Friday, May 6 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 7 at 7 p.m.

Where: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center – Jemison Concert Hall

Tickets: On sale soon!

A Century in Symphony 

What: Free performances over Memorial Day Weekend with three themes: Fireworks Spectacular, A Midsummer Night’s Dream & More, and Family Fun Day

When: Friday, May 27 at 8 p.m;, Saturday, May 28 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, May 29 at 6 p.m.

Where: Railroad Park

Tickets: Free

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

Fourteen miles from the University of Alabama’s bustling college campus lies the site of another thriving community. More than 900 years ago, Moundville, nicknamed The Big Apple of the 14th Century by National Geographic, was once America’s largest city north of Mexico and one of the most powerful prehistoric communities of all time. Today, what remains of this huge settlement of Mississippian culture is one of the nation’s most important Native American heritage sites. This hidden historical gem is now managed by The University of Alabama College of Arts & Sciences and is open to the public to visit seven days a week.

History

To fully appreciate the park, it’s important to paint a picture for yourself of what it once was by learning about its history. Located on the Black Warrior River, Moundville was once a thriving ceremonial and political center of Mississippian culture. It’s estimated that the city was built around 1120. At its height, an estimated 1,000 people lived inside its fortified wooden walls and 10,000 more called the surrounding area home.

Moundville was a planned community of 29 constructed flat-topped earthen mounds arranged around a vast central plaza. Each mound served as a platform for civic or ceremonial structures, as well as for nobles’ homes. The tallest mound, known as Chieftain’s Mound, stands at nearly 60 feet. The entire 300-acre development was situated on a bluff overlooking the Black Warrior River, a major source of life for the Mississippian people. Unlike earlier societies that relied on hunting and gathering, the Mississippian culture developed sustainable agricultural practices that allowed the creation of permanent settlements. Moundville was one of the largest and most complex societies, second only to Cahokia in Illinois.

Most of what’s known about Moundville has been discovered through archaeological excavations. Though it’s not known what exactly brought this community together, archaeologists estimate that the mounds gradually fell out of use between 1300 and 1450. Evidence suggests that inhabitants scattered, building single-mound sites along the river, leaving Moundville to become primarily a burial ground.

The first scientific excavation of the site began in 1929, and from 1933 to 1941, a major project took place to restore the mounds, construct roads around it, and build a museum in its honor. At the time, more than 500,000 square feet of the site, including more than 2,000 burial sites, the remains of 75 houses, and thousands of artifacts were uncovered. However, this represents only 14 percent of the site. The site became a National Historic Landmark in 1964, and in 2010, the Jones Archaeological Museum at Moundville, originally built in 1939, underwent a $5 million renovation.

Plan Your Visit

Start your visit to Moundville on a self-guided tour of the museum’s Lost Realm of the Black Warrior exhibit. The exhibit tells the story of Moundville and its people through a series of realistic scenes with full-sized human figures depicting a wedding ceremony, chief’s home, medicine maker in an earth lodge, and other common scenes from daily life. In addition to the scenes, you’ll find more than 200 ancient artifacts throughout the exhibit, as well as murals depicting daily life. Be sure to take note of the stunning bird-serpent bowl carved from a single piece of stone.

Once you’ve made it through the museum, it’s time to stand in awe of Moundville by taking in its sweeping panoramic views. As you walk the lush green grounds, imagine all the life that once took place on the very ground you’re walking. Be sure to climb the stairs to the top of Chieftain’s Mound for the best view of the park. Instead of seeing the sea of green below, imagine hundreds of houses surrounding the mounds, with people trading, cooking, playing games, and conducting their daily business.

Before you leave, check out the park’s half-mile nature trail and on-site Three Sisters Garden, where you can learn about Native American food and medicine. If you’d like to extend the adventure and get a glimpse of what it was like to live in Moundville, consider booking one of the park’s 34 campsites for RV and tent camping.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

When people think of America’s most notable music cities, several Southern cities come to mind. There’s New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz; Memphis, where rock ‘n’ roll got its start; and Nashville, our nation’s country music capital. But there’s one more place that should be added to the list of legendary music towns, and it’s Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Located in North Alabama, the Florence-Muscle Shoals metropolitan area includes Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield. Together, the four cities make up The Shoals, an area with rich music traditions dating to the 1960s and extending into present day.

Between the 1960s and the 1980s, some of the most groundbreaking artists of their time traveled to The Shoals to create and record new music. Artists like Aretha Franklin, The Rolling Stones, and Otis Redding all recorded many of their most popular songs in The Shoals. American music across so many genres wouldn’t be what it is today without Muscle Shoals.

Discover the History

There are several spots you must visit to get a full picture of the incredible impact Muscle Shoals had on the music industry. Start at FAME Recording Studios, the recording studio that’s credited with creating the signature “Muscle Shoals Sound” via the studio’s in-house band, the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. Over the years, artists including Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Alicia Keys, Demi Lovato, and Jason Isbell have recorded songs at FAME. In addition to continuing to welcome artists from all over the world today, FAME also offers daily tours for those looking to get up close and personal with its incredible history.

Just a few miles down the road in Sheffield, visit another legendary recording studio that was created by musicians who got their start at FAME. In 1969, members of the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, also known as the Swampers, set out to create a recording studio of their own. The result was a nondescript building at 3614 Jackson Highway in Sheffield that ended up producing music for some of the biggest artists of all time including The Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, Paul Simon, and Cher. In 2013, the Muscle Shoals Music Foundation partnered with Apple and Beats to restore the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio to its former glory. Now tours, as well as recording, both take place in the iconic spot.

In nearby Tuscumbia, visit the Alabama Music Hall of Fame to learn how contributions from Alabama musicians changed the course of musical history. Visit the museum Tuesday through Saturday to learn all about artists like Lionel Richie, Jim Nabors, Emmylou Harris, and more. You can even add to Alabama’s music history by making an appointment to record your own song at the museum’s recording studio. Music, accompanying vocals, and lyrics are all provided.

Round out your music history tour of The Shoals at the W.C. Handy Museum & Birthplace. In Florence, you’ll find the cabin where W.C. Handy, known as the Father of Blues, was born in 1873. The modest cabin where he was born has been turned into a museum hosting the largest collection of the musician’s personal papers, memorabilia, and artifacts including original sheet music for some of his biggest hits.

Modern Day Music 

The music has far from faded in The Shoals today. Once you’ve honored the area’s incredible music history, it’s time to experience its equally impressive modern-day music scene. Venues across the four cities host live music several nights of the week, welcoming local, regional, and national artists alike. For a delicious meal and nightly live music, visit Swampers Bar & Grille. In Florence, FloBama offers a true Shoals experience with a 10,000-square-foot restaurant and music venue featuring a 30-foot professional stage run by an in-house sound engineer. Down the road at High Ridge Spirits Distillery, you can get a true taste of The Shoals with locally made spirits and live music from local artists. The local distillery serves up cocktails made with in-house vodka, gin, rum, moonshine, and barrel shine, and live music happens every Tuesday through Saturday.

Want to learn more about The Shoals incredible music scene? Head to visitflorenceal.com.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

Miller Mobley has been all over the world. As a photographer, he’s met some of Hollywood’s biggest stars including Tom Hanks, Robert DeNiro, George Clooney, and Nicole Kidman. He’s taken portraits of icons Dolly Parton, Anthony Bourdain, and Taylor Swift, and he even shot the cover for Michelle Obama’s memoir “Becoming.”

But after years of living and working in New York, Mobley decided it was time to come home. So four years ago, he packed up his family and made the move back to Birmingham. With the move home, Mobley was inspired to challenge his creativity.

“I’ve always wanted to expand my capabilities and design something that people could experience,” he says. “I think to be honest, I was up for a new challenge. I like to have several projects going on, and despite how many people told me to avoid the restaurant industry, I just couldn’t give it up.”

When choosing a restaurant concept, Mobley says he kept coming back to one question: whether he was creating a restaurant he’d want to visit himself. He decided on a classic pizza joint in his neighborhood of Mountain Brook, and he decided to name it Slim’s.

“Slim’s represents a feeling more than a name,” he says. “To me, Slim’s feels relaxed, easy-going, a place where you call it by its nickname. It’s just that everyday place where you see familiar faces and know that you’ll always be taken care of.”

With its black-and-white-checkered tile floor, rich mahogany banquet booths, and warm pendant lighting, the space effortlessly blends understated elegance with nostalgic warmth. It could be a bygone relic of old New York and yet it fits in just as nicely in Crestline Village.

“I wanted Slim’s to have that feeling of ease but done at a high level. I think creating an environment that feels like it’s been around is important as well,” Mobley says. “I can tell you that every single detail, from the font of the menu to the drapery fabric, was planned and thought through. I think that’s the only way to create something special.”

When it came time to plan the menu for the restaurant, Mobley turned to John Rolen, former chef de cuisine at Bottega to take the lead. The two got together in early 2020 to start brainstorming. They decided on a classic menu of pizzas, salads, and Italian appetizers like minestrone soup, meatballs, and panzerotti.

“We always kept saying, let’s do it the classic way, but do it the best way possible with the most premium ingredients,” he says. “For instance, our dough is made with a local flour that’s milled right here in Alabama. We let the dough ferment for more than 72 hours. This process yields a dough that’s incredibly flavorful, has a nice crunch and is a beautiful color.”

A standout on the menu is the Hot Honey pizza, made with mozzarella, pepperoni, jalapeños, and local Eastaboga honey infused with chili peppers. Other pizzas include the Spicy Pork with copocollo, spicy peppers, red onion, garlic, and parsley; and the Greens with spinach, artichoke, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and olive oil. The restaurant also serves classic cocktails and specially-made ice cream flavors by Big Spoon Creamery like Stracciatella and tiramisu.

Since opening in September, Slim’s has become a quick favorite. Mobley says he’s been astonished at the reception the restaurant has received and is thankful for all the support.

“We absolutely love Birmingham and believe it has a bright future,” Mobley says.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

With new developments popping up all over town, business in Birmingham is booming. Ultra-modern lofts and cozy city condominiums are continuously adding to the skyline. And with the number of restaurants, bars, and retail shops growing by the day, there are more than enough ways to spend the day.

One of the latest is Mercantile on Morris, a mixed-use development located on the iconic cobblestone Morris Avenue. Developed by Orchestra Partners, Mercantile includes 47 residential condos, ranging from micro units to two-bedroom condos. Each unit leads onto a terrace overlooking a bustling pedestrian plaza below. The plaza includes 14,000 square feet of retail featuring a combination of boutique shops, restaurants, and bars that includes some of the city’s most anticipated up-and-coming openings.

“Everything we do is about connecting people, and Mercantile on Morris does just that,” said Mary Claire Weeks, managing director of Orchestra Partners. “Through the creation of the pedestrian plaza, we’ve connected 1st Avenue to historic Morris Avenue, creating a walkable, pedestrian-friendly space where people can spend an entire day. Our mix of restaurants, boutique retailers, and fitness tenants will attract activity throughout the day and night to contribute to downtown Birmingham’s work, live, play environment.”

Keep reading for the full directory of every business at (or coming soon!) to Mercantile on Morris.

Open Now

Pizza Grace

This artisan pizza restaurant specializes in wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza made with a three-ingredient naturally leavened sourdough. Topping offerings showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients. In many cases, produce is the star, as seen in the Veggie pizza with pesto, baked garlic, smoked provolone, roasted mushrooms, kale, gremolata, and toasted breadcrumbs. The restaurant also has a rotating menu of desserts and large-portion vegetable dishes.

Hide & Hunter

Hide & Hunter is a handcrafted and upcycled leather goods brand crafting one-of-a-kind bags, luggage, and other leather accessories. Owner Hannah Christine created the brand back in 2013, blending her passions for outreach and design. A portion of the profits from every bag sold is donated to support outreach trips domestically and internationally.

Scott Miller Projects

This contemporary art gallery showcases work by local, national, and international artists represented by both private and institutional collections worldwide. Collector Scott Miller has been involved with art for the past 30 years, doing everything from building his own collection to arranging art related travel for collectors and students to helping place works in collections throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

Bridge + Root

Find quality menswear at this men’s apparel boutique dedicated to providing an authentic and educational shopping experience for men. Find everything from clothing and outerwear to socks, ties, accessories, and body care.

Coming Soon

Lifelyles Gifts & Interiors (January)

Birmingham resident Peyton C. Lyles created Lifelyles to combine his passions for interior design and gift giving. The boutique retail shop offers a range of gift items, décor, and sustainable goods in one chic location.

Canella Gelato (early 2022)

This artisanal gelateria makes handcrafted gelato and sorbet daily, preparing everything on site from the gelato base to the finished product. The store will offer permanent signature flavors vanilla, chocolate, and lemon-lavender-honey-goat cheese, as well as a rotating menu of seasonal flavors. Coffee, tea, and hot drinks will also be available.

Bar La Fête (early 2022)

From the owners of fellow Morris Avenue favorite The Essential comes Bar Le Fête, a Parisian wine bar featuring a full menu of French-inspired shareable plates. In addition to the charming wine bar offering fine wines, beers, and high-end spirits, Bar Le Fête will also house the next retail location for the pair’s Bandit Patisserie (formerly in Homewood), where you can find breakfast pastries, croissants, cakes, breads, and more.

Studio E Fitness (April 2022)

With a mission to make fitness accessible to everyone, everywhere, and every day, this Pilates studio is ready to join Birmingham’s growing fitness studio community come spring. Certified Pilates instructor and owner Emily Dixon hopes to help her clients grow and learn on their journey to becoming healthier and happier through Pilates.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

When it comes to ringing in the new year, Alabama may not have a giant ball drop or thousands of people crowding into Times Square, but we certainly know how to celebrate. With parties and events happening across the state, from the Magic City to the Rocket City, the shores of the Gulf and beyond, here are the best ways to usher in 2022 in Alabama.

Electric Circus New Year’s Eve Party (Birmingham)

Ring in the new year under the big top at Birmingham’s Ghost Train Brewing. Live circus performances by Luminarts Entertainment will include clowns, jugglers, acrobats, fire and light performers, aerialists, face painting, and the Electric Circus dance crew. DJs will be spinning tunes until 2 a.m. Small batch brews, specialty cocktails, and carnival-style comfort food will all be available to keep the good vibes well into the 2022.

Iron City’s 2022 New Year’s Party (Birmingham)

Close out 2021 as a high roller at Iron City’s Old Hollywood-themed New Year’s Eve Party. DJ Charles III will hit the turntables as guests participate in casino games, hit the dance floor, and enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. At midnight, ring in the new year with a balloon drop and champagne toast. All guests will be sent home with a party favor.

Alabama Symphony Orchestra NYE Concert (Birmingham)

For a classy evening, join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra for its annual New Year’s Eve concert. This year the performance will take place at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center. Alongside favorites from Johann Strauss II—including waltzes, polkas, and marches—the symphony will also perform popular hits from around the world, as well as classics from the American songbook. The evening will end with a champagne toast.

Phat Sammy’s New Year Eve Wine Dinner (Huntsville)

Let your last bites of 2021 be good ones by spending New Year’s Eve at Phat Sammy’s. The Tiki-inspired Asian fusion restaurant and cocktail bar will host a special five-course pre-fixe wine dinner with seatings at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Expect creative dishes like squid ink ravioli and smoked venison with cheddar-horseradish polenta. Stick around after your meal and cheers with one of the restaurant’s famous communal cocktails as the clock strikes midnight.

106 Jefferson Ultimate New Year’s Eve Extravaganza (Huntsville)

If you really want to send 2021 out in style, there’s no better way than with this party package that has everything covered. The Ultimate New Year’s Eve Extravaganza includes deluxe guestroom accommodations at 106 Jefferson, champagne for two, party favors, a five-course dinner for two at Revivalist, entry to Baker & Able’s NYE celebration (see below), complimentary overnight valet parking, and 3 p.m. late check out on New Year’s Day so you can party well into the morning.

Rooftop Masquerade at Baker & Able (Huntsville)

Huntsville’s favorite rooftop restaurant, located in the 106 Jefferson Hotel, is throwing a masquerade celebration with a great view of the city. A ticket to the party includes live music, a midnight champagne toast, tapas, and festive party favors. Festive attire is recommended for this swanky affair.

The Wharf’s Reelin in the New Year Street Party (Gulf Shores/Orange Beach)

Fun for the whole family, the Wharf’s signature New Year’s event includes an action-packed evening of activities for people of all ages. Live music from 88 Licks Dueling pianos and The Park Band will keep things festive from 6 p.m. until midnight when the famous marlin drop and fireworks will ring in the new year. Family friendly activities, as well as adults-only fun, will be available throughout the evening.

Flora-Bama New Year’s Eve Bash (Gulf Shores/Orange Beach)

You can always count on this infamous dive bar for a good time, but New Year’s Eve is an especially great time for a night of raucous revelry. Live music will be rocking on all three stages, all night long. Ticket holders will also have access to an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet from 6 p.m. to 11 pm., a breakfast buffet that takes over at midnight, a champagne split, and additional surprises throughout the night.

Moon Pie Over Mobile (Mobile)

New York’s got their ball and Nashville’s got their music note, but neither has anything on Mobile’s giant Moon Pie. This year’s party kicks off with the opening of a resolution wall at 8 p.m. where you can leave your goals for 2022, followed by an interactive performance from the Port City Second Line, then the cutting of the world’s largest Moon Pie at 8:30 p.m. Live music from Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue will prep the crowd for the big event at midnight when a 600-pound electric Moon Pie will drop with fireworks and a laser light show as its backdrop.

The Order of Pan New Year’s Eve Ball (Mobile)

If you’re already looking forward to Mardi Gras, the Order of Pan’s New Year’s Eve Ball might be the perfect December 31 plan for you. Put on you black-tie best and head to the Prestige Event Center for a night of live music, dancing, drinks, and dinner in typical krewe style.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

Erica Robbins has always had a heart for people, but it wasn’t until 2013 when she moved to downtown Birmingham that her passion for helping others hit a fever pitch. Robbins’ new home overlooked the highway. Over time, she noticed the same man sitting under the bridge each day.

“Something led me to check on him,” she recalls. “It turned out this man under the bridge served in the military, was married, and had children. He told me he had PTSD and did not like being confined to small spaces. He was only comfortable with the outdoors, and right at that moment I started referring to him as my neighbor.”

Inspired by her new neighbor, Robbins began volunteering at homeless shelters. But after serving at the city’s shelters for two years, she still felt she could be doing more. That’s when she began reaching out to friends and family members on social media asking for donations of hygiene items. After collecting enough items, she’d drive around the city looking for homeless neighbors who could use the aid. Her efforts were the beginnings of Be a Blessing Birmingham, a nonprofit she founded in 2015 with a mission to bring awareness and support to the city’s homeless population.

“I wanted to be a blessing to those around me and show our homeless neighbors that they are not alone,” she says. “We are all a family and should stick together.”

For the past five years, Be a Blessing Birmingham has hosted Blessing Days for the city’s homeless community on the third Saturday of each month. Volunteers set up at Linn Park and hand out packed bags that include a hygiene kit, two rolls of toilet paper, a pair of socks, and bottled water. Individuals also receive breakfast, clothing, a pair of shoes, and seasonally appropriate items that can help them remain comfortable in the weather.

Items are donated at Be a Blessing drop-off locations throughout the city like Yellowhammer Creative and Bizarre the Coffee Bar downtown, as well as Calera Orthodontics, 31 Escape in Fultondale, and Roo’s Place in Mt. Olive. First Commercial Synovus Bank locations also serve as drop-off spots. Monetary donations that go toward purchasing additional supplies can be made through Be a Blessing’s website.

“My goal is to bridge the gap between our homeless neighbors and the general population,” Robbins says. “It is all about joining something bigger than yourself.”

Robbins says she’s proud of how much Be a Blessing has been able to accomplish over the years but would love to see the organization expand and serve those in need outside the city, too.

Currently, Be a Blessing is gearing up to give even more this holiday season with two special events, a Black Tie Gala fundraiser on December 4 featuring live entertainment, food, and drinks, and a Christmas Blessing Day on December 18. Tickets to the gala are $100, and all proceeds from the event will go toward helping homeless neighbors in need. The organization is also collecting gift items for men and women and seeking volunteers in advance of their holiday blessing day.

Outside of helping those in need, Robbins says Be a Blessing is also a blessing to those who donate and volunteer, as well as the community as a whole.

“We are transforming lives daily,” she says. “Volunteering gives us a sense of purpose and gives us a chance to connect with the community. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing someone’s face light up when they are giving back to the community in a positive way.”

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

A new book from Gritty South, an imprint of Bluewater Publications, aims to remove the rose-tinted lenses and cut the sugar-plum sweetness often associated with holiday stories, and instead replace them with true-life tales of what it means to celebrate the season in the South. “Gritty Southern Christmas Anthology,” out now, is a collection of short stories from 16 Southern authors telling the authentic story of Christmas in the South.

Angela Broyles, who founded Bluewater Publications in Lauderdale County in 2000, said launching Gritty South as an imprint of Bluewater was a natural step after working with so many talented Southern writers over the years. She said she got the idea for the anthology from her own personal experience.

“Like many, looking at my world from the outside it might have seemed perfect,” she says. “But when I was 25, a dear part of my life went home on Saturday after Thanksgiving and buckled to depression on Sunday. I tried to compensate for the Thanksgiving holiday as our children grew up and left home. I escaped to the beach for many of these painful holidays. In time, there were three things I learned. I was not the only one hurting over holidays; it’s almost an epidemic if you talk to people; and the holidays are a hard time of year for many for numerous reasons.”

Knowing how easily connection and community are forged through storytelling, Broyles decided the best way to help others like herself who were struggling through the season would be through the sharing of stories. Even if they weren’t happy, or pleasant, or particularly festive, they were just as important to be told and to be heard. “Gritty Southern Christmas” was the result.

“Southern writers understand the pains of the South,” she says. “We have a culture, people, and communities only Southern people really understand.”

The book opens with a poem from Alabama Poet Laureate Ashley M. Jones, who is the first person of color, as well as the youngest poet, to hold the post in its 91-year history. Her contribution, “Magic City Gospel” tells the story of her parents’ commitment to instilling Black pride in her and her siblings in every facet of their lives growing up.

“Jesus was Black, Barbies were Black, and even Santa Claus became Black when my dad painted a Santa decoration brown,” Jones remembers. “We still have that Santa, actually. I really wanted to remember those beautiful and impactful memories created by my parents not just at holidays, but always. And I wanted to encourage other parents or children to be confident in their own unique way of celebrating Christmas. There’s no wrong way!”

For Jones, whose work seeks to illuminate the realities of the Southern experience—both the good and bad, past and present—telling a story about a “gritty” Southern Christmas was a natural fit.

“We aren’t all smooth as butter and perfectly smiling and singing ‘Sweet Home Alabama,’” she says. “There are so many experiences, my own included, that are often forgotten or glossed over when we speak about the South or about Southern literature. A ‘gritty’ South is one which seeks to see all.”

The book is anchored by outgoing Alabama Poet Laureate Jennifer Horne, who served the state from 2017-2021. Horne, who has been writing since she could “put words on lined paper” said she loves being included in anthologies because it gives the feeling of working toward something larger than oneself—and in this case, within the region she calls home.

Her contribution to the book, a short story called “Halfway to Nashville,” had its beginnings years back while she was on a road trip to the Music City. She set the idea, which explores what it’s like to be an empty nester during the holidays, aside for a while, then revisited it upon being asked to submit to the collection. Her interpretation of a “gritty” Southern Christmas centers around the idea of conflict.

“I immediately saw the value in an anthology that acknowledged that Christmas is a conflicted time for many people, when the expectations of the ‘perfect Christmas’ make people feel as though they’ve somehow fallen short in decorations or gifts or warm family moments,” Horne says. “I think of ‘gritty’ as opposed to ‘smooth’ or ‘slick’—stories that address the harder moments many encounter in this season, but that also help us see our way through them.”

“Gritty Southern Christmas Anthology” is out now in paperback for $14.95 and as an e-book for $2.99. It is sold on Amazon, as well as at local and national bookstores throughout the state.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

Tour Tuskegee University

Founded in 1881 as the Negro Normal School in Tuskegee, Tuskegee University was built on a dream from Booker T. Washington and Lewis Adams to provide a top-tier educational institution for African Americans. Since then, the school has consistently been ranked as one of the country’s top five HBCUs by the U.S. News and World Report. Tuskegee University is also the only college campus designated as one of the National Park Service’s National Historic Sites.

Spend some time strolling the historic campus through an official or self-guided tour. If you opt for the later, be sure to look for the newly erected Tuskegee Civil Rights and Historical Trail markers. The 13 markers are located throughout campus, as well as in other historical spots around Tuskegee. Each helps to preserve the history around a storied figure, organization, or destination pivotal to the Civil Rights Movement.

Other locations on campus not to miss are the Tuskegee Institute, which includes the George Washington Carver Museum and The Oaks (Booker T. Washington’s home), as well as the Tuskegee University Archives and Legacy Museum, which both house extensive collections focused on African and African American art and history.

(Tuskegee University/Facebook)

Visit the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site

Get the full history behind our country’s first African American military aviators at the historic site of the Tuskegee Airmen’s first flights. At Moton Field, learn the incredible story of these pilots, technicians, radio operators, medical personnel, parachute riggers, mechanics, navigators, and more who made up the famous Red Tails team. Guests can tour the outdoor grounds and read interesting facts about the Tuskegee Airmen through 20 Wayside Exhibits. Inside Hangars 1 and 2, visit museums exhibits that include artifacts like a full-sized replica of Airmen red-tail planes and recreations of the sights and sounds of Moton Field during its heyday.

(Art Meripol/Contributed)

Discover Booker T. Washington’s Legacy

As an educator, author, and orator, the impact Booker T. Washington had on the city of Tuskegee is immense. As the Tuskegee Institute’s first leader, he led the way for a long legacy of Black excellence that continues at the school today. The Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site is the best way to see firsthand the expanse of Washington’s incredible influence. The National Park site includes the George Washington Carver Museum, The Oaks (Booker’s home), and the historic Harris Barrett School.

At the George Washington Carver Museum, learn about the famed botanist and researcher Washington hired to head the school’s agricultural department in 1896. Then take a tour of The Oaks, the on-campus home where Washington lived from 1900 until his death in 1915. To this day, the Washington family are the only ones to have lived in the historic home, which was the first in Macon County to have electricity and steam heating. Complete your hands-on education on Washington by touring the Harris Barrett School, a two-room school that was built—quite literally—by students who formed the building’s bricks by hand under the supervision of Washington. Located on three acres of land and restored to its originality, the school now serves a museum giving a glimpse into the early school life in rural Alabama.

(Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site/Facebook)

Hoover’s Moss Rock Festival is throwing an extra special Sweet 16 bash for the city’s beloved nature and art festival. This year’s festival, held Nov. 6-7, will continue its tradition of introducing festivalgoers to a bevy of talented local and regional artists. A new venue, the Hoover Met Complex, will host more than 150 artists, as well as other exhibitors focused on nature and sustainable living, a dozen food and drink vendors, a live music stage, kid’s craft workshop, and the return of the ever-popular Beer Garden.

Moss Rock Festival has been a staple fall festival for the people of Hoover and beyond since its very first festival weekend in 2005. Since then, it has only grown to include more exhibitors and more ways to explore nature, smart living, art, and design. At the festival, find work from artists representing a huge array of media, from woodworking and glassblowing to watercolor, photography, and ceramics. This year’s special exhibition “Landscapes | Our Alabama” features large-scale photography of Alabama’s natural wonders from six esteemed Alabama photographers.

Despite its excellence in the visual arts, the festival doesn’t stop there. Find poetry from Alabama Poet Laureate Ashley M. Jones, as well as other Alabama writers inside the Alabama Poet Laureate Tent. She’ll perform her poetry live on the Crescent Stage Sunday at 1:30 p.m. The stage will also host performances from local bands and performers including Hope Wendell, Rude and True, Orange Bunny, M.U.A.D., the Alabama School of Fine Arts Jazz Ensemble, Fee-Free Redmon, Dala Dance Company, and more from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

One of the best things about Moss Rock Festival is its commitment to art that touches each of the senses. For those looking to explore the culinary arts, tickets to the 10th annual Beer Garden are a must. At the Beer Garden, appreciate the artistry of craft brewers by sampling beer from almost 30 breweries and cideries located in and around Alabama. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, Moss Rock’s Café has you covered with local food trucks like Encore Rouge gourmet street food, Aww Shucks fire-roasted corn, Tamale Queen, and Rae Rae’s Catering featuring fall festival favorites like Polish dogs, Philly cheesesteaks, and nachos.

Need more convincing? Check out our preview of three talented artists participating in this year’s festival.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

If you thought you’d have to leave Alabama to get a cozy mountain town experience, think again. Nestled in the woodlands of Lookout Mountain, Mentone is our state’s highest city—and also one of the most fun to visit.

Its location in the northeast corner of the state, teetering near the Georgia state line, renders it a gateway to the Appalachians. But it’s also the gateway to years of history and culture built by the mountain people who call it home.

With gorgeous natural surroundings to explore—on foot, skis, or horseback—plus plenty of colorful shops and restaurants, Mentone is ideal for a refreshing retreat. Here’s our guide to spending a day in Mentone.

Breakfast at The Hatter Café

Kick off your tour of the town with breakfast at The Hatter Café. Roger and Pamela Wald found their slice of heaven in Mentone in 2016, then opened their Wonderland-themed café and bed and breakfast two years later. The café’s whimsical teahouse ambiance adds to the utter joy of sitting down to a comforting plate of biscuits and gravy or fluffy pancakes. If you want to carry the wonder into the evening, book one of two rooms at the adjoining Country Inn. Both feature a private porch with a hot tub.

Explore Desoto State Park

Desoto State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The 3,502-acre park is best known for its stunning waterfalls, including the dramatic 107-foot Desoto Falls. It, as well as several other smaller falls, are easy to access via nearly 30 miles of trails. In addition to waterfall chasing, Desoto State Park is also an ideal venue for hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, horseback riding, swimming, picnicking, wildflower spotting, and more. If you prefer your outdoor adventure to have a hint of adrenaline, hit up One World Adventures. The outfitter offers kayaks and canoe rentals, as well as bouldering, rock climbing, and rappelling trips.

Lunch at Mentone Market

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Mentone Market for a bite to eat. The longtime convenience store, mountain market, and community gathering spot has become popular over the years for always carrying exactly what you need. They even offer a selection of locally made gifts like gourmet food items, linen tea towels, and scented candles. Their lunch menu includes all-American staples like subs, pulled pork sandwiches, pizza, soups, and salads. Live like a local by sitting down for a quick lunch in the market’s Art from the Market gallery.

Shop at Log Cabin Village

Walk off lunch down the street at Mentone’s famous Log Cabin Village. The grouping of eight authentic log cabins house businesses that run the gamut from an old-fashioned ice cream shop to a pottery shop and women’s boutiques. AJ Trading Post, with its handmade leather goods, natural gemstone jewelry, and native art and blankets, is a great way to learn about the area’s rich history of mountain artisans and craftspeople. Patron another Mentone maker at Little River Soap, an all-natural soap and bath product shop.

Ski or Horseback Ride

The next item on your Mentone itinerary depends on the season. In winter, make it a point to visit Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort, Alabama’s only ski resort. The resort’s two 1,000-foot slopes are ideal for new skiers looking to test out the sport. Since the resort uses artificial snow to cover its slopes, you won’t have to worry about the weather either. In warmer months, swap an afternoon on the slopes for time on the ranch. Shady Grove Dude Ranch, which adjoins Cloudmont, features 800 acres of wilderness populated with picturesque trails for horseback riding.

Dinner at Wildflower Café

There’s only one place to cap off a perfect day in Mentone, and it’s The Wildflower Café. Voted as the Best Restaurant in Dekalb County, Wildflower offers a menu as eclectic as its decor, where string lights and folksy art rule. Several dishes are legendary at this establishment, including the Famous Tomato Pie, House Fettucine Alfredo, and Black and Blue Filet Mignon. Dessert is also a must. Try the gluten-free peanut butter pie, classic hummingbird cake, or signature Wildflower crepes filled with sweetened cream cheese and your choice of chocolate sauce or homemade strawberry puree. (Wildflower Café is only open for dinner Fridays and Saturdays.)

(Courtesy of Soul Grown)

At first glance, Alabama, New Zealand, and Australia have little in common. They’re separated by thousands of miles and centuries of culture. However, despite their distance and dissimilarities, all three locations are connected by one thing: glow worms. Once darkness descends, a strange and extremely rare phenomenon occurs in North Alabama (as well as in places in Australia and New Zealand). The walls of Dismals Canyon light up with tiny pinpricks of bright blue light. The otherworldly display occurs naturally in only three locations in the world—and one happens to be in our very own backyard. Keep reading for all the details on how and when to see them here.

What are the Dismalites?

The source of the magical twinkling display is the larvae of an insect closely related to fungus gnats. The only bioluminescent insect native to North America, Dismalites emit the bluest light of any known animal, and though too tiny to see with the naked eye, they resemble star-shaped flowers up close. The light comes from a chemical reaction in two pairs of light-producing structures, one in the thorax and one near the larvae’s tail end. Like fungus gnats, Dismalites are drawn to mold and moist, dark places—including the dark recesses of damp, algae-covered canyon walls. The Alabama larvae are close cousins to the glowworms found in Australia and New Zealand.

Where can you see them?

If you’re not planning an international trip anytime soon, you’re in luck. North Alabama is home to two locations where you can get up close and personal with all the majesty of the tiny critters.

Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1975, Dismals Canyon is an 85-acre privately owned and operated nature conservatory. The conservatory is open for hiking and exploring Monday through Sunday, with daytime admission ending between 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. each day. To see the Dismalites, guests must schedule a 45-minute guided night tour to gain access to the canyon floor past dusk. Cabin rentals and campsites are available for those who want to spend the night. In addition to miles of hiking trails and other landmarks of interest like Pulpit Rock, Rainbow Falls, and Weeping Bluff, Dismals Canyon also has a soda fountain and grill, as well as a country store, that are open to the public.

Another place to see the Dismalites is at Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve. The 700-acre privately owned natural area in Tuscumbia is open to the public daily and offers primitive camping for those who want to stay up late to view the Dismalites.

How much does it cost to see them?

At Dismals Canyon, night tour admission is $10 for adults, $9 for those over 60, and $7.75 for children under 12. Admission to Cane Creek Canyon is free.

When can you see them?

The best time to see the Dismalites is between April and August. Summer night tours at Dismals Canyon run until July 31 and fall tours return from September 25 through October 30.

Tips

• Leave your flashlight at home! If you want to bring a source of light, a red flashlight is best for viewing.
• Don’t be alarmed if you don’t see the glow right away. Give your eyes time to adjust and things should start lighting up.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

When you think of a weekend getaway in Alabama, what’s the first destination that comes to mind?

Maybe Gulf Shores for a weekend soaking up the sand and sea? Or some time relaxing on one of our state’s many beautiful lakes? You may even think of a bustling city like Birmingham, Huntsville, or Mobile for a staycation of sorts.

But if you’ve never considered Pursell Farms in Sylacauga for a weekend away, you’ll want to add this 3,200-acre outdoor leisure resort—complete with an award-winning golf course, Orvis shooting grounds, gourmet dining options, spa, luxury accommodations, and much more—to the top of your list.

History

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If you’ve ever visited the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. and stared up at the translucent marble ceiling, you’ve witnessed a piece of Alabama history. The ceiling is made of white marble mined in Talladega County’s Sylacauga (appropriately known as the Marble City).

In addition to lending its natural treasure to some of the nation’s most notable buildings, Sylacauga also holds the title for having the longest deposit of marble in the world. The bed of stone runs 32 miles long, a mile and a half wide, and more than 600 feet deep. The marble found in this quarry is especially desirable for two key characteristics: its purity and its durability. When paired together, these distinct qualities make Alabama marble some of the most desired in the world for large-scale buildings and monuments, as well as homes and sculptures. (more…)

Kevin Parrish is a craftsman by birthright. At the age of 13, his father took him into the family garage workshop and started relaying the ins and outs of leather working and saddle making.

“I remember I was watching Saturday morning cartoons and he came and said, ‘Come on, it’s time to go to work,’ and from that point on, some nights during the week and every Saturday I would work with him, kicking and screaming the whole way.”

Luckily, Parrish, who owns The Saddle Guy—a saddle making and repair shop in Baldwin County, Alabama—eventually developed a passion for the talent. After attending college for a couple of years at Auburn, he returned home to Montgomery to once again work in his father’s saddle shop. This time, though, something was different. “It just kind of clicked for me,” he remembers. (more…)

When it comes to lighthouses, Alabama isn’t exactly the Northeast, where around 150 of the country’s 1,000 lighthouses reside. Nor are we Michigan, where 115 lighthouses stand along the Great Lakes. However, what we lack in quantity, we make up for in rich history. Case in point: Middle Bay Lighthouse, located off the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, has been in operation since the 19th century.

One of three remaining lighthouses in Alabama, Middle Bay Lighthouse is quite different from the tall, tubular structures typical of traditional lighthouses. And you won’t find any black-and-white candy striping either. If you’re on the lookout for Middle Bay Lighthouse, you’ll want to search for a structure that resembles a near-circular house on stilts. The one-and-a-half story hexagonal wooden structure is built on metal pilings screwed directly into the seafloor. Known as a screw-pile lighthouse, this style of lighthouse is commonly used in bays and estuaries with soft, muddy bottoms. Today, Middle Bay is one of only 10 remaining screw-pile lighthouses in the U.S. (more…)

Treat your sweetheart to the best our state has to offer with one of these unique date ideas for Valentine’s Day.

Go for a hike

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While many associate Mardi Gras with the revelry and debauchery of New Orleans’ Bourbon Street, the holiday actually began right here in Alabama. Mardi Gras was first celebrated in 1703 when Mobile resident Joe Cain led an impromptu parade down the port city’s streets in an attempt to bring joy to post-Civil War misery. Today, Mobile continues the 300-year tradition by hosting a family-friendly celebration that still packs the party with brilliantly colored floats, rancorous parades, and grand balls for nearly a million merrymakers each year. 

This year, Mardi Gras Day (also known as Fat Tuesday) falls on February 16. In a typical year, festivities begin early with more than 40 parades rolling through the streets of downtown in the two weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s parade schedule has been canceled. Despite the cancellation, Mobile still plans to celebrate safely and in style. Check out our guide to having a safe and spirited Mardi Gras in Mobile this year. Laissez les bons temps rouler! (more…)