The Uptown District of Birmingham was recently named a “Neighborhood to Watch” by Forbes Magazine. The publication said that the district has experienced over $1 billion in recent investments.

“These assets are critical to Birmingham’s tourism industry and its ability to attract major concerts and events for our city,” David Fleming, CEO at REV Birmingham, told Forbes. “All of this makes Uptown an important part of Birmingham‘s economic vitality and attractiveness.”

“However, the investment that has transformed Uptown in the public’s view is the addition of CityWalk.”

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According to Forbes, Uptown “offers an eclectic mix of urban sophistication and leisurely activities. The district is a bustling area known for its entertainment, dining and shopping options, featuring diverse restaurants and boutiques. Uptown is a district that anchors the northern end of downtown. Adjacent to the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC) in downtown Birmingham, Uptown boasts modern architecture, green spaces and attractions like The Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, Topgolf, Protective Stadium, and City Walk.”

Additionally, the Birmingham City Council in 2015 voted to allow the Uptown district, including the BJCC, to become the city’s first “entertainment district” with visitors allowed to carry drinks outside.

The area also hosted the return of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament in 2023 and the NCAA Women’s Basketball Regionals in 2025.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.