With the largest skylight in the western hemisphere situated atop a nine-story glass atrium, the Riverchase Galleria is considered one of Birmingham's must-see landmarks. Not only does the Galleria comprise 200-plus specialty shops and several large department stores, it also boasts more than 30 eateries, indoor landscaping and fountains, arcades, a NASCAR simulator and a merry-go-round.
The Booksmith is one of Birmingham's premier independent bookshops specializing in Southern and Alabama authors and topics. It offers both new and used books in a clean, comfortable shop. Enjoy free coffee and a seating area while browsing titles, and feel free to request recommendations from the helpful, knowledgeable staff. Author visits and signings occur regularly. Special order service and out-of-print searches are available as well. The Booksmith buys used books, although trade credit is your best bet.
The Outlet Shops of Grand River are located just east of Birmingham in Leeds. The shopping center features a wide variety of outlet stores where you can get all your name brands at lower prices. Outlets include the Guess Factory Store, Kenneth Cole, Le Creuset, Talbots, Tommy Hilfiger and much more. There is also a small selection of your typical mall eats like Sbarro and Burger King.
Soca Clothing Boutique offers up comfortable, stylish clothing to all kinds of women. Whether you're looking for a new pair of jeans, a dress, tops or almost any other article of clothing, you'll find an incredible selection at Soca. They carry an array of popular, quality brands like Splendid, Savannah Rae, Eight Sixty and Central Park West.
When thinking about the array of shops in Birmingham, an independent record store may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but Seasick Records is about to change that. Step into this Avondale record store for a huge array of both new and used music, on vinyl, tape and CD. Genres are all over the map, from hip-hop to blues and jazz to grunge, the selection will have you browsing for hours!
If you're on the hunt for a piece of flawless, fine jewelry in Birmingham, head Downtown to Levy's Fine Jewelry. The experience jewelers are happy to assist you in finding just the right piece, whether its a gift to yourself or someone else. From bracelets to necklaces, rings, watches, brooches and even loose stones, Levy's has it all.
For people who love collecting antiques, this is the ideal destination. Hoover Antiques is a huge gallery with 75 vendors, each one being distinct and unique in their own way. The place is owned by Chris Feagin, and most of the objects are sold at an affordable price. This is a quintessential location for collectors as well as designers looking out for something uncommon and exceptional.
When you think of an art gallery, you think of fine art of landscapes, buildings, and unknown people. But, New Life Art Gallery combines two unlikely combinations: art and sports. The gallery showcases (and sells) paintings by David A. Moore, a renowned international artist whose work is revered by many. Avid golfer? Football aficionado? There’s something for you. But, the gallery by far features and caterers to University of Alabama Roll Tide football, where, as they say, football is a sport, but in Alabama, football is art. Artwork is reasonably priced, with online shopping available. Worth a visit, even if you’re not an art lover. - Terah Shelton
With the largest skylight in the western hemisphere situated atop a nine-story glass atrium, the Riverchase Galleria is considered one of Birmingham's must-see landmarks. Not only does the Galleria comprise 200-plus specialty shops and several large department stores, it also boasts more than 30 eateries, indoor landscaping and fountains, arcades, a NASCAR simulator and a merry-go-round.
Located in Riverchase Galleria, this fantastic store is every Indoor Sports lover's dream. This store looks like an arcade game zone, but what's unique is that you can buy most of the things you see here. You can find table tennis equipment, pool and billiards tables, Foosball, arcade games like shooting games, dance games, basketball games, casino games, poker, darts, chess, board games and many more. You can even find many other accessories and they even do pool table repairs. Everything you need to have fun can be found here.
Located in the Hoover area of Birmingham, Mr. P's Deli is known for their fresh cut sandwiches and wide selection of meats. This popular delicatessen has been open for 37 years and is owned and operated by Mr. P himself, Charles Pilleterie. The shop carries imported groceries as well as local products such as Mr. P's handcrafted spices and marinades. Over two dozen sandwiches are on offer featuring the sliced in-house deli meats, sauces and more. Made to order breakfast sandwiches are served from 8:30-11a and can be called in for pickup.
Dreamcakes Bakery is Homewood's go-to bakery for gourmet cupcakes and bespoke wedding cakes. Innovative flavor combinations and beautiful presentation ensure these delectable cakes appeal to both eyes and palate. Every week the bakery reveals a mystery flavor, so there is always something new to try. Favorites on the menu include the caramel sea salt mocha, s'mores, key lime pie, maple bacon and Curious George. The quaint shop features exposed brick walls, wrought iron accents and row upon row of glass cases filled with the most delicious desserts; you'll be hard-pressed to pick just one!