The Nick is definitely not for everyone -- but it's absolutely an experience you'll never forget…read more After my friend (who was hosting us) passed out, my other friend and I decided to see more of Birmingham's nightlife. A friendly bartender at Up-Down Arcade Bar (another must-visit!) told us about this place, mentioning it's one of the few bars open 24 hours on the weekend. Naturally, curiosity won. From the jump, this place had character. There's a bouncer at the door, a makeshift elevated DJ booth to the right where you have to pay cash for a "membership." Don't worry -- there's an ATM conveniently behind the booth, ready to charge you a nice little convenience fee if you didn't bring cash. The membership lasts a year, but still, that was a first for me. Inside? Small. Crowded. Lively. And at 1 AM, there was a guy passed out in a chair right by the entrance -- with his dog roaming freely around the bar. I honestly couldn't make this up if I tried. The bartenders were solid -- fast, cool, and trying their best to keep up with the rush. There's a selection of local beers (pretty good ones too) and two pool tables... well, technically one, since they only had one cue ball. The pool sticks? Ancient relics. The bathroom? I'll spare you the visuals. Outside was much more breathable. There was a local guy named Walter -- from Georgia, of all places -- selling BBQ. Cool dude. The turkey wing was a little tough, but his attitude made up for it. Now, the real highlights? The people and the atmosphere. You've got folks eavesdropping on your conversations, tossing around racially backed jokes at me (that I politely corrected), a row of chain-smokers out front, and a woman openly asking for cigarettes or change that may have been homeless, but was definitely a crackhead and she so eloquently vocalized. It's a gritty and downright raw type of place, but somehow, it works. There wasn't any live music when we came, but I'm sure that's what makes this place shine more than it already does in its own unique way. I'll definitely be back for a performance night. Bottom line: Five stars because The Nick is exactly what it's supposed to be -- an unfiltered slice of Birmingham nightlife that refuses to apologize for being itself.

It seems like I'd heard of this place since the day we moved to Birmingham in 2012. I've heard some…read moreinteresting stories about it since then also. lol! I went at 4:30'ish on a Tuesday for happy hour with some pals. Very slow time which was perfect for us. The bartender was very laid back. The customers seemed like regulars... familiar. Good drinks. The walls are super super busy. You can't look and not see something you didn't see before. I definitely recommend going for the experience if you've never been.

My first time attending an event here. I met the owner and he was a nice guy. Before I knew who we…read morewere, he asked if he could take my wife's coat. The owner was operating the bar and he was accommodating. I came here tonight to attend a wedding reception and enjoyed the spot. We had food that was supplied and it was tasty. The place is nice inside with room outside for sitting. The floor is suitable for dancing with a fully stocked bar. They do take cash, Apple Pay and credit cards.

I really liked the vibe at Uptown Jazz. There is no food service, but you can bring your own food.read more

Went to R&B Bingo event at Workplay. The event was fun and the Workplay staff was great. The event…read morehosts even bragged on the staff's accommodations and kindness. But that Downtown street parking is always a pain. We sat upstairs... it was a bit dark but overall good seats. The restrooms could have been a bit cleaner but that could contribute to those using it throughout the night. All in all, great space for a good time!

We popped in to get caught up on emails and work. I enjoyed the smooth low playing music, very cozy…read moreand each drink is custom to your liking each order. The Owner/Barista Lee is very cordial and patient. He helped me customize my delicious my almost Harry Potter drink.

This is THE room for music fans. It's a quiet venue, a rock venue, and everything in between…read more Above all, it's intimate. You aren't just a spectator, you're part of the show. Here's why I say all of those glowing things: This room is tall, but small in square feet. There are bookshelves that align the walls. They are covered in books that face backwards, so the pages soak in the sound. It's a noise canceling solution that was just too dang obvious for anyone else to figure out. At times, the ticket prices might be steep, but it's worth it. It means you get to see one of your favorite acts in an intimate venue with people that care. Think about it... you won't have to deal with the drunk dude at the bar talking about who knows what, while your trying to enjoy a show. so good.

It's hard to review perfection is it not. Birmingham is really quite blessed to have such a vibrant…read moremusic scene and to add another music venue seems a bit superfluous but let me tell you this venue is important for the city. Yes we have plenty of places to see rock shows and indie shows but a true listening room where music is front and center and not the whole "hey look at me I'm at this show and you're not" thing we just don't have. I'm rambling because it's hard to convey the excitement I have for this place. It's the type of room that you can go to and the artist doesn't even have to be mic'd up for it to sound amazing. From what I understand a bar area is coming and there are more renovations to be done in the space but really the aesthetics don't matter when it comes to this place. It simply is a place to go and listen to music without distraction. Get there as soon as you can.

Really enjoyed my first concert at Iron city we came to see Juvenile on Thursday night and a time…read morewas definitely had I've been here a time or two for a couple of events never a concert setting and it was fantastic friendly staff the check in was smooth & easy we got there early and were able to get seats in the general admission area great view we danced all night didn't get to try the food hopefully our next concert we will

What a cool and interesting venue! I've been twice now, Big Thief and then Mom Jeans/Slothrust…read more The floor area is huge and wide open. Not my thing. They have an upstairs with seats, more my thing. They also have a few VIP areas. This is where it gets confusing. The latter show, they had tables open that hadn't sold. In my business brain, you'd discount those areas the day of the show because well, the sale you make is better than the sale you don't. Well, they apparently don't have the same outlook as me. What we also observed was that if you're friends with the manager, they'll be able to make that work but if not, you're SOL. Whatever. All of that aside, the sound is great, the bar is great, most of the staff is great. Their booking agent/talent buyer must have their hands full and/or have a split personality because who they get is so all over the place.

Yesterday was my first time at Jazzi's on 3rd. An organization I am a part of had an event there o…read moreand it was nice. Of course, parking can be challenging downtown, but I was able to snag a spot with about 50 feet of the venue. This place has a nice ambiance. The owners and staff were great and hospitable. This could be a nice place to host a birthday party or any other event.

Surprised by this venue. I had never heard of it, but was invited to a 40th bday celebration so I…read morewent. Tucked in the historic district of downtown Birmingham, it is a clean, well kept older building with nice, classy decor. It is rectangluar shaped which may sound uninviting, but it actually worked well. The staff was friendly and curteous. I would definitely recommend as an event venue for less than 75 people.

The Alabama Theatre has a very rich history here in Birmingham and has been a landmark since the…read more1920's. It is a beautiful and elegant venue that has been renovated over the years but kept its identity to its original state. I've attended several events here over the years, from concerts, to movies to guest speakers. My high school graduation was held here back in 1997. There are usually snacks such as popcorn available for purchase and beverages. I don't remember other food being available. The staff is always pleasant and ready to assist. Pro Tip: The seating on the lower level is much more comfy than upstairs, especially if you are hippy or curvy or just want more room. Buy your tickets keeping this in mind.

Great venue for a show or concert. There's plenty of street parking along with paid parking nearby…read more The venue offered snacks, cocktails and drinks. I'm not sure about prices, I didn't have any. I don't think any of the seats are bad for viewing the stage.i do think that they should invest funds into renovating or replacing the seats. The seats are short, low and small. They also do not have an elevator. Be prepared to climb many stairs if you don't purchase floor seats. They seemed to have improved the sound system, which really made the musical experience better. I thoroughly enjoyed Orchestra Noir and can't wait to see them again next year. I will definitely go back.

The food was delicious. The service was five stars. The lights were perfect for a romantic night.read more

My husband planned a date for us today. Neither of us had been to Eighty Eight before so tonight…read morewas a new experience for both of us. Parking wasn't bad because there's a parking garage right behind Eighty Eight. When we entered, we were greeted and escorted to our seats. Note: I suggest buying VIP tickets so you have a guaranteed seat. A DJ played music, which was comprised of a good mix. The show was supposed to start at 9:30 pm, but it didn't start until around 10:15 pm. I understand things can happen so I'm going to give them a little grace this time. We ordered drinks, wings, and fries. The food was great! I believe it came from Sleek. The drinks were good. As for the entertainment, it was phenomenal! We definitely enjoyed ourselves and we would go back.

I've previously only ever been to Saturn for concerts, but there is so much more that this venue…read moreoffers. From local coffee, video and board games galore, a full bar (with THC and NA options, bless!), and a live music room, Saturn guarantees a fun outing. You could easily come here and not spend any money- simply sit back with friends and a board game, and your night doesn't have to cost a dime! My boyfriend and I hung out here for the evening playing Scrabble while nursing on a Seltzer. This is truly one of Birmingham's best spots, period. The inside is so unique and thoughtfully decorated. Birmingham is lucky to have a spot like Saturn!

Saturn is a cool venue! I forget about it , unfortunately! I was recently here for a MOTH event and…read moreI had a nice time. There isn't any food but there is an extensive drink menu. Pricing is decent. The staff were cool but not overly friendly. I feel like there is so much nostalgia here! Board games and old school video games are available. I have added Saturn to my list of places to frequent more in 2025. I don't recommend the frozen drinks , they weren't good to.

The bacon-wrapped figs are delish! We had the sweetest waitress. The live musician made some…read morederogatory statements, and she came over to apologize and make sure we knew those were not her or the establishment's opinions. I trust the owners took note and won't have them back. The building is cool. We sat in a cozy booth. We will try again!

While visiting my stepson at the U of Alabama, my wife and I heard that the Sanctuary was a cool…read moreplace. It definitely is! This former church has been turned into a great restaurant with live music. There's plenty of tables and a bar with a huge screen for sports. The band sets up in the corner up front. The food here is all small plates. Since there were 4 of us, we ordered quite a few. Some favorites were the Pork Belly Tacos, Steak Tacos, Chicken Salad Sliders, and the Steak A La Plancha. Together, with nice glasses of wine, this was an excellent dinner! The restaurant is off the beaten path from downtown and parking on the street is easy. If you're looking for something different, check out The Sanctuary!