Birmingham, situated in central Alabama in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is home to a multitude of nightclubs in areas across the city. The Lakeview District, Five Points South and Downtown are just a few of the neighborhoods that boast nightlife destinations frequented by people of all ages and cultural backgrounds. Whether you're looking for an exceptional place to catch live music or a martini lounge that caters to your tastes, Birmingham offers something for everyone.
Located on historic Cobb Lane in the Five Points South area,the Blue Monkey Lounge is an upscale cocktail lounge that features the eponymous Blue Monkey martini. It is "Birmingham's oldest and best martini bar," according to the website. With low lights, house music and couches and tables tucked into secluded corners and niches, this nightclub offers ample room and a swanky atmosphere perfect for sipping a cocktail or enjoying a cigar. During happy hour Tuesday through Saturday, the lounge offers $2 off cocktails and $1 off all beer and wine.
Blue Monkey Lounge
1318 Cobb Lane
Birmingham, AL 32505
205-933-9222
bluemonkeylounge.com
WorkPlay Theater is a distinctive mix of nightclub and music venue. It's both an excellent space to enjoy top-shelf cocktails and one of the best places in Birmingham to enjoy live music from a wide variety of up and coming musicians. WorkPlay has received a bevy of accolades, including a vote for "One of the Top 10 Things to do in Birmingham" by The New York Times. Most nights find a mix of young and old gathered at tables around WorkPlay's bar and around stages listening to music. On Tuesdays, well drinks, beers and house wine are all just $2.
WorkPlay Theatre
500 23rd Street South
Birmingham, AL 35223
205-79-4773
workplay.com
The Rare Martini, located in Birmingham's historic Lakeview District, is "Birmingham's premiere upscale martini lounge," according to their website. With both a main bar and a side bar to accommodate patrons, you'll find dancing, live music and daily drink specials, in addition to a full food menu that includes appetizers, main entrees and sandwiches. Happy hours are from 4:00 until 8:00 pm Tuesday through Friday. The city's best live bands play on the weekends, and Thursday night features live acoustic music.
The Rare Martini
2839 7th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233-2803
205-323-0008
theraremartini.com
Steel Urban Lounge makes its home on the corner of 1st Avenue North and 23rd Street South in the historic loft district of Birmingham's downtown area. A true urban lounge, Steel offers everything from Dom Perignon and Veuve Cliquot to excellent wines, beers and top-shelf martinis. The décor is modern and industrial but cozy and intimate, perfect for relaxing with friends and a fine cocktail. Tuesday is open mic night, Thursdays feature various DJs and Saturday is ladies night.
Steel Urban Lounge
2300 1st Avenue North
Birmingham, AL 35203
205-324-0666
steel1stand23rd.com
