The main point of our trip to Birmingham was to see an exhibit at the art museum. However, we are…read moreearly rises (especially with the 1-hour time difference from home), so we had some time in the morning to fill. My wife determined that the local botanical garden opened by 7 a.m. (!) and was also free, so we opted to stop here before the museum opened later at 10 a.m. We made it here by around 7:30 a.m. A word of caution - the highway interchange nearby was nightmarish. We missed 2 turns (even with a navigation app running). I don't think it was just me. So be careful and add a few extra minutes to get lost. Once finally off they highway and through the final roundabout, we proceeded along a road bordering the gardens. On the other side appeared to be an expensive hotel and an upscale shopping / dining plaza. The garden was having some sort of plant sale, and crowds were apparently expected. They had traffic control cones in place, but we arrived early enough so that parking was still plentiful. When we left, it seemed like the lot had mostly filled up. The gardens are quite large. They are divided up into sub-areas and there is a large map posted about 100 yards inside the main gate. No paper maps were on offer, so I guess you can take a photo of theirs and use that. We first strolled to the Japanese Garden. We had this to ourselves until almost when we left. This area is quite large by itself. They have koi ponds, a tea house, etc. It was nice. We took an alternate path back to the map pavilion. From there, we explored other areas (mostly dedicated to specific flowers). Some of the terrain is hilly. We routed through the vegetable garden and eventually ended up back at the central formal rose garden. This was being watered periodically that morning and some of the brick paths in it were flooded. They seemed to have some satellite restrooms in remote areas, in addition to the main set near the gate. We spent almost 2 hours here and probably could have spent even more time, but we wanted to drive to our prime stop. If you have any interest in botanical gardens, this is a very worthwhile stop.

One of the first things I appreciated was free parking and free entrance, which is always an…read moreattractive feature. From there, it just kept getting better. You can easily spend hours exploring the many trails that wind through beautiful flowers and plants, the serene Japanese Gardens, and even an active beehive community--which was my favorite part! We were on a bit of a time limit and didn't get to walk the entire property, but we still managed to spend about two hours covering roughly three miles, and it never felt rushed. While it's still a little early in spring for everything to be in full bloom, there were still plenty of gorgeous floral displays to enjoy. Some of the trail directions can be a bit confusing at times, and we did end up wandering off course once or twice. That said, it was never difficult to find our way back to the main trail and continue exploring. If you're looking for a place to meander, slow down, and truly enjoy nature, this is absolutely the place to do it. A peaceful and rewarding experience overall.

Had about a 50 person event in Dread River's private event room and it was great. The staff was…read moresuper friendly, food was great, and the space was prepared perfectly. Mashala, the Event Coordinator, was amazing throughout the entire process. She definitely went above and beyond to help us out. Would recommend!

Great service, bartender was super friendly and attentive, fun guy to talk to. Only had time for…read moreone drink but it was pretty good, I would order again for sure. Menu was extensive but it only had about 8 in house cocktails? The rest of the menu was food, beer etc kinda expected more options from a distillery. Ambiance was a little off, the outside of the building is nice, but inside when you get down to it was a little rough around the corners, it's my own preference, but having a bunch of big screens with sports on while serving chicken wings kinda kills the distillery vibe and makes the place seem more like a sports bar. It's not horrible, just seems like they were trying to cross a distillery with a buffalo wild wings.

Food, service, and ambiance is unmatched by any restaurant in the Birmingham area. Join The Club…read moreand experience it for yourself or go with a member and enjoy it

This restaurant is equipped with the most gorgeous views of Birmingham. The food was amazing and…read morethe staff was even better.

Harambe is a great event space, great customer service & they provide everything you need. We had a…read moreprivate musical night & the video wall added the perfect touch. The stage lighting makes all the difference & plenty of space to dance, eat & make memories. Call Elias - he goes above & beyond for your special event.

From the owner: With 35 years of experience serving the Birmingham community, The Harambe Room, located in…read moreBirmingham’s fine arts district behind the Lyric Theater on historic 4th Avenue, is a versatile event venue offering over 3,000 square feet of contemporary, exposed brick loft-style space, accommodating approximately 250 guests. The venue provides various setup configurations, including tables, chairs, a stage, and a sound system upon request. Additional services encompass event planning, catering, custom cakes, sweets, a full cash bar with bartending services, and DJ entertainment. The Harambe Room is suitable for a wide range of events, such as weddings, receptions, baby showers, private dining, parties, luncheons, business meetings, and general events.

I have been a customer for several years. They have recently let go of everyone that used to run…read morethis location. Service has disappeared, communication has also vanished. Despite not adhering to the level of professionalism and service promised, they are refusing to let me out of a contract that was subsequently inflated without explanation. Please avoid at all costs!

From the owner: For more than 30 years, we've helped businesses find the right way to work by creating the perfect…read moreworkspace for their people. Our extensive network of locations enables companies of all sizes to work wherever and however they need, being part of a global business community of 2.5 million people.We believe in giving businesses choice, flexibility, and access to a thriving community. We create bright, inspiring workspaces that can be customized to individual needs within consistently professional environments. Our office space, coworking environments, business lounges, and meeting rooms come with everything taken care of. Experienced, friendly teams organize all the details and services so people can be more productive and stay focused on what's important.Our office products also offer a benefits program with exclusive discounts and bespoke procurement support, ensuring businesses have access to tailored solutions that enhance their efficiency and value.Our flexibility sets us apart. Everything we do is on flexible terms, so businesses can effortlessly scale as needs change and take on workspace that's right for them today and tomorrow, wherever they need to be. By building a global network of workspaces, we enable businesses to work closer to home, closer to clients, and closer to new opportunities.

It ain't exactly closed anymore. Its a non profit now. I was told that the venue was just not…read moreprofitable as a profit so now it can be rented out. Hell, I really don't know what the hell because I was drinking tequila during this conversation so this review of a once for profit but now non profit art studio that has not been sold or closed but yet opens for the Day of the Dead festival one day per year, blah, bleh, blibbity bleh..yadda yadda..drone.. Holy Shit Birmingham peeps!! This is more damn confusing than a goverment website! Is it closed or open? Seems simple..well.. I was there so I am going to say its OPEN. But if I came back in a week, it would be closed. Insane Artist People!! I love ya but answer the question! Day of the Dead Festival was an unexpected treat. Good food. Good music. A band from Austin, TX and beautiful altars set up to commemorate the dead lost loved ones in true fashion of the holiday. Fires burning in chimineas, colorful lights, friendly people, murals, activities, face painting, beers to drink, food trucks serving. If I didn't know better I would have thought I was in Austin! Weird! The Dia de los Muertos altars are all beautiful too. Each person who passed away represented a universe contained within the beings that they were.. the altars had items that they had enjoyed in life, photos, paintings, letters, favorite coffee cups from which they drank only to mention a few. The vigillette candles are glowing and lighting up the way that was each life which was lost. I just popped into town and did not have the chance to set up an altar, but I did light my own candle and set it in a special place to commemorate those who I have lost. The red glowing sparks from the open bonfires there went into the night sky and burned out into infinity much like the lives that were being commemorated. So long momma. You are remembered and loved. A candle here burns for you this night as well. Thank you for being such a wonderful mother. I miss you now and everyday of my life.. I will think of you. Maybe now from where you are you see things with new eyes and vision and I hope you understand me more now than ever and that it gives you peace. I am well. Your grandson is well. I hope you see us now whenever you want and the distance no longer confines you. I love you now and always.

Lovely space. Apparently they have openings about once a month.read more

Book him for an intimate gathering! So entertaining to watch. He was also very fun to talk to.read more

Wow! I laughed. I cried. And, all while being gobsmacked. Alec is the real deal. I'm still shaking…read moremy head in disbelief at his talent.

Centrally located in downtown Birmingham and near a number of businesses and hotels, BridgeStreet…read moreGallery and Loft is as lovely as a venue as they come. This place is an ideal spot for medium to large'ish gatherings (50-150 peeps?) and a perfect setting for any special occasion. Whether it's an art installation, photo gallery, wedding reception, or just a big ol party, there are two floors of quality spaces to work with. There is no elevator unfortunately, but the bathrooms are handicap friendly and there is a separate back entrance for vendors. Parking is a bit limited to alleyways and street parking, but as the area finishes their renovations, I wouldn't be surprised if a parking garage would eventually make its way here. The fun in a raw space is seeing how much it changes for whatever the theme merits. There is a dedicated team here that works to make that vision come true and they're a professional and friendly bunch. I think their operation is stellar from top to bottom that perspective folks should really consider this gem of a venue.

This is an absolutely beautiful little venue! I have never heard of this place until I had a Yelp…read moreevent here last night, and I have to say I was extremely impressed! There are two floors, and our event was on the upstairs. I'm not sure how old the building is, but it has an exposed brick wall painted white, beautiful hardwood (oak looking) floors, with gorgeous strands of light setting the perfect evening event. Not sure if the lights are part of their everyday decor or if they were for Christmas, but it's absolutely stunning! I could see this being a great venue for a rehearsal dinner, work/birthday party, or a small wedding/prom venue (My graduating class of 7 would have had enough room!) My only question is how do I get invited back to this place?! I don't plan events, but this is a place I definitely want to come back to! Just a head's up I only saw street/metered parking, but that's pretty much expected in downtown Birmingham.