Neighborhood Spotlight: Avondale, Alabama
Welcome to my “Neighborhood Spotlight” series, where I highlight some of my favorite communities in Birmingham, Alabama! First up is Avondale, a neighborhood Thrillist described as “Birmingham's Brooklyn.” Why? Because it’s an incredibly walkable community with a perfect mix of residential, retail, and foliage that Birmingham (aka, the Tree City) is known for. Let’s take a deeper dive into what makes the Avondale neighborhood magic.
Avondale Park is one of Birmingham’s best green spaces.
Ask anyone, and they’ll tell you that Avondale Park is the heart of the community. That’s why when the city of Birmingham began to revitalize the Avondale community, they started with Avondale Park. And after a $3M investment, they did just that!
This 36.5-acre park next to Avondale Library features a mature rose garden and gazebo, WPA-era outdoor amphitheater (perfect for music, theater, and similar programs), and 2,400 square foot renovated villa (great for special events and family reunions), duck pond, walking track, tennis courts, and three youth baseball/softball fields.
You can get a real taste of Birmingham craft beer without your car.
Avondale Brewing, Ferus Artisan Sales, and Cahaba Brewing Company are three of Birmingham’s best breweries - and they all happen to be located in Avondale. Birmingham has a fast-growing craft beer scene that’s sure to please any beer lover. And best of all? You can visit each of Avondale’s without even getting in your car!
There’s plenty to do in Avondale.
Whether you want to shop, eat, read a book, or enjoy a cup of coffee - you can get it done in Avondale! The community has a variety of places to eat, grab a drink, or enjoy a cup of coffee. There’s even a public library that hosts weekly events and workshops.
You can also enjoy shopping at small businesses like Seasick Records or Sozo Trading Co. or grab something sweet at Big Spoon Creamery or a cup of coffee (or tea) at Punch Love Coffee. And don’t forget about Saturn Birmingham! It’s a coffee shop by day with tons of classic board and video games. It transforms into a space-themed concert venue with various shows and events at night! Speaking of concerts, Avondale Brewing Company has a spectacular outdoor space that hosts a variety of musical acts.
Overall, Avondale is just a great place to live!
Avondale is one of the fastest-growing urban suburbs in the Birmingham metro. And with its proximity to downtown Birmingham and all the community's amenities, it’s no wonder.
Most single-family homes in Avondale are older craftsman-style homes with classic front porches and lots of windows. New homes are being built in the same style to fit the neighborhood, so the charm of classic Avondale isn’t lost. This community also features many affordable apartments for rent and newer apartments directed towards the "affordable luxury" market.
