Top Rated Attractions in Birmingham

If you are looking for a day out in the open, a bit of drama and the chance to place a bet or two, look no further than the Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse. Steeple chasing has taken place here for almost 250 years with 14 meetings held each year between March and November. In between cheering on your favorite filly, enjoy refreshments from a tempting range of eateries and bars, or at the large picnic area at the center of the course. Although relatively small in size, the course is counted as one of the region's best. The racecourse also offers rental space for a variety of events, including corporate functions, wedding receptions and private parties.

The Stratford Playhouse is a versatile venue used for cultural and educational events. It features a flexible 450-seat auditorium, foyer, an atrium, dressing rooms, meeting areas, a bar and a lovely courtyard garden. It is one of the esteemed destinations for comedy, theater, dance and music in town.

Regarded as one of the iconic venues in the history of cricket, Edgbaston Cricket Ground boasts of a long-standing history that goes back to the year 1882. Found in the heart of Edgbaston, this well-designed stadium has played host to some of the most memorable cricket ties over the years. Apart from being a top-notch sports venue, it also renders itself as an excellent locale for private and corporate events. Seven exquisitely designed spaces are ideal for meetings, private galas and business conferences. With its ornate interiors and well-laid out setting, the stadium also functions as a wonderful turf to host wedding receptions and other intimate ceremonies.

MAC is one of the country's leading arts' centers, welcoming over half a million visitors each year. The center covers all aspects of art and culture within the region and is appreciated by everyone who comes here. There are three performance spaces, 14 studios/workshops, an outdoor arena, a cinema, six galleries and exhibition spaces. The center has a wide-ranging program covering performance arts such as drama and dance, music, film, and comedy. The great thing about the mac is that it caters for everyone and has a real community feel; there are puppet theaters for the younger ones, foreign films and theatrical productions to suit all tastes.

This unique house was built for residential purposes in 1878 by George Alfred Haden Haden-Best. The house is located along with the previously constructed Haden Hall in a 55 acre (22.26 hectares) estate and was bought over for public subscription. The estate is now used as a park for the public and the Haden Hill House has been converted into a small museum. This museum attracts a large amount of visitors with its list of programs and activities for all ages. The house is designed in a Victorian style and houses many Victorian objects. The museum has special services to aid school visits and holds many interesting activities for school children. The Oak House inside the house is also rented out for private events, most prominently weddings. This glorious house is a much-loved place to visit in the locality.

Formerly known as The Sanctuary and the Digbeth Institute, O2 Institute Birmingham was once a grand Methodist chapel which opened for the first time in 1908. Over the years, it evolved into a cultural hub, until finally shutting down in 2008. A million pound revitalization program and take over by MAMA & Co. led to its re-opening in the fall of 2010. Despite refurbishment, this building restores its ornate facade and commitment to great music. With three venues and a capacity of 2,900, it hosts some of the best concerts and live entertainment in town.