I'll be traveling there next weekend. Would love some advice.

I'm from SC but the software vendor we use is in Birmingham and I've spent at least 12 weeks there over the past 4 years. <p>I'm not sure what kind of advice you are seeking.<p>I would try to stay at the Wynfrey Hotel if possible(and work related). It is a 4 star hotel and it is attached to the Galleria Mall. Very nice and the grill is good and they make a super frozen margarita in the bar there.<p>The mall is great and they also have a spa in the mall near the hotel that does a decent manicure and a heck of a massage.<p>As far as restuarants, if you are near the Galleria, everything is pretty close. If you are out on 280 there are also alot of good things. Ralph and Kacoos is ok for seafood but mostly just catfish. They do serve alligator of you are in the mood to try something new. Of course it may not be new for you. I don't remember where you are located.<p>Birmingham is a great city. Downtown there is an area called Four Corners I think. The Highlands Bar and Grill is excellent. One of those places written up in dining magazines. If nothing else stop by for dessert. The dessert chef is honored mutilple times over. <p>I personally like Johnny Rays' BBQ at the Colonade on 280. The BBQ is good but the best thing is the chocolate creme pie. They also have lemon and coconut creme but chocolate is by far the best. I can't go to B'ham without getting some pie. I even took a cooler with me on one trip because my pastor loves the coconut pie so much, he practically begged me to bring him back a whole pie.<p>I'm not sure about your shopping tastes but another kindof higher scale area is the Summit Mall at the intersection of 280 and 457. They have mostly the expensive stores, ie Abrocromie and Fitch, Talbots, Ann Taylor, Niemand Marcus, etc. Sorry not only do I not get to shop there I can't spell the names either. There is a nice Barnes & Noble there however and lots of good restuarants too. It is a strip type mall not an inside type.<p>Good luck and enjoy Birmingham. It is a nice place to visit. <p>Let me know if you needed more specific details. I basically spent enough time there to know just about where everything is.<p>Take care and have fun,<p>Lynn

That's the sort of stuff I want to know.<p>But on my single mom who works in state government salary, the Winfrey is way out of my league. I spent less than the price of the room there on two round trip airline tickets. <p>I will have a travelling companion with me. And he can be most difficult. I'm his mom, so I can say that. <p>Before I try to fly half way across the country with both children later this summer, I had to get this one over his fear of doing this. So, we have a one-nighter planned in B'ham. Planning on finding a hotel that provides airport transportation so I don't even have to rent a car or take a taxi - afraid of getting taken by cabbie. All I need is a place with a pool and nearby restaurants. Within walking distance. Don't fly in till Sat pm and fly out Sun a.m.-midday.<p> [img]images/icons/rolleyes.gif" border="0[/img] What we do for our children! [img]images/icons/rolleyes.gif" border="0[/img] <p>So, do you know of anyplace decent and cheap? And near a decent restaurant? Only have to do two meals!<p>(I'm a mean mom and not taking d because I need to save money and she seems fearless on this flying idea.)

me me me!!!! I'm here [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] . <p>But, I'm headed off to beddy-bye... out of town on Saturday... I will think and post back to you on Sunday evening, k? The walking distance thing is stumping me... in a decent area... and airport trans... hmmmm... I will come up with something. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img]

Well, I'm not familar with the airport area since I always drive in but if you stay around 280 off of 457, there is a really nice Hampton Inn with an excellent breakfast. It's close to Chic-fil-a and there's a Texas Roadhouse, Bahama Breeze, Copeland's, Outback Steakhouse, Johnny Rays' etc all within a mile. I used to stay at the Residence Inn on 280 at Inverness when I travelled for weeks of training. Good people, nice pool, basketball court and it's right next to another favorite of mine which I can't beleive I forgot. Superior Grill is great if you like tex-mex. I highly recommend the chicken fajitas. They have a live band and free appetizer bar if you buy a drink. My Dad always said for me to go there and spend $5 on a drink even if I didn't want it just so I could eat off the bar. I never could pass up the fajitas though. There is also an Italian place on the hill that is good. Petrocelli's I think ( oops, there goes the spelling again) Can you tell we eat ALOT when in B'ham.....<p>Sorry I can't help with things more near the airport. Maybe someone else will have a suggestion. Also sorry I should have asked if this was a business trip. I could never stay at the Wynfrey either if I was paying for it. I just was there the first part of last week(on business) and it was so wonderful, I couldn't help but suggest it. They have these new feather down comforters on the beds that are just to die for. I really feel special when I stay there. <p>One funny thing and I'll shut up and go to bed. Years ago, I mean 10 years ago, my H and I went to B'ham for the first time for the Bassmasters Classic Tournament. My Dad suggested we stay at the Wynfrey and I said ok having no idea. My H and I pull up after the 6 hour drive looking really haggard, with plastic grocery bags for luggage and carrying a 12 pack of Bud. Neither one of us knew anything about valet parking, tipping a luggage service, etc. The bass were definately not the only fish out of water that weekend. I still think about us standing in front of those huge brass elevators just laughing our heads off. Those were the days. To this day, other than our weeks at Edisto Beach, that still is my favorite vacation of all time.<p>I hope you and your son have a few laughs while you're there too. <p>Lynn

Hey Cinderella,
I have lived here for 12 years and will be happy to help! The biggest issue I see for you is your decision not to rent a car. Bham is a 'drving city' - not good public transportation and pretty spread out geographically. I don't think you would be taken advantage of by a cab driver, I just think you would have a problem getting one! Literally, when people here 'call' a cab - they actually make a telephone call and then wait. You can't just walk outside and stick your hand in the air. So, if you change your mind about renting a car you will have more options on dining and on where to stay (since you won't have to be within walking distance of a restaurant). <p>That said, if you don't change your mind about the car - here are some options. Whatever you do, do not stay near the airport - bad area and nothing to do.<p>The Hampton Inn at the Colonnade (Highway 280 at I-459 - not 457) has an outdoor pool and is in walking distance to several restaurants. There is a Ruby Tuesday, Pablo's (good, inexpensive Mexican), Taziki's (excellent, inexpensive Greek - great grilled chicken pita for lunch!), Edgar' Bakery (best bakery in town), Johnny Ray's (excellent Southern Bar-b-q). The Hampton's phone number is 205-967-0002.<p>Another choice is the La Quinta Inn in Homewood at 60 State Farm Parkway. This is south of the airport down I-65, get off at the Lakeshore Parkway exit. There are several restaurants within walking distance of this place - tons of fast food, plus O'Charley's, Tony Roma's Ribs, Chili's Bar and Grill, Outback Steakhouse, Landry's Seafood, Taco Casa, Wing's Sports Grill... There is also a shopping center right there called Wildwood with Old Navy, a huge book store, Academy Sports (Wal-Mart sized sporting goods...) They also have an outdoor pool and their number is 290-0150 and 1-800-531-5900.<p>There is also an Embassy Suites in Homewood - it is at 2300 Woodcrest Place (205-879-7400). They have an indoor pool (no outdoor), free airport shuttle and free cooked to order breakfast and a free cocktail hour from 5-7 every night. It is also a 'suite', so you have 2 rooms and a pull out sofa. Every room has Nintendo too. There aren't really any other restaurants within walking distance, but in the hotel is Ruth's Chris Steakhouse - expensive, but awesome steaks. Actually, now that I think about it, you could probably walk to the shopping/dining area in Homewood where there are restaurants - Dave's Pizza (great pizza, big patio, live music, family friendly), O'Carrs Deli (excellent food, long tradition), O'Henry's Coffee, ...<p>Some options for you to consider! I'll try to answer any other questions you may have. Hope you have a great trip!

Well, I pay for this trip out of my big vacation money. Purpose is solely to get s over fear of getting on airplane. Right now he likes the idea but he is my most difficult child. And I do mean most difficult. Has attitude problems if you don't do things his way. (Part of why my x is my x - like father, like son.)<p>Anyway, we are capable of walking a few blocks for a meal - 3-5 if neighborhood is ok. Chance to talk and see things we wouldn't see if zooming in car. I figure I would save $50 if I could find hotel with shuttle. Ok - maybe $30. But I need a hotel in a fairly developed area. <p>Have been shopping in my AAA book. The leading contenders: offering airport shuttle, continental breakfast, pool, and appearing to be near retail areas, are:<p>- Best Western Rime Garden Inn near I-20 @ Beacon Dr
- Comfort Inn B'ham near I-20, on Montevallo Rd
- Hampton Inn Colonnade (don't know about b'fast)
- Key West Inn at same exit as HI Colonnade - 8 blocks away?
Key West Inn - B'ham E - off Montevallo Rd on Crestwood<p>Nashville is not a city suitable for non-drivers either. I'm just trying to save a few bucks. <p>Should those of us in the area have a mini-get-together? I know Wiffle grew up in my neighborhood.

- <p> -
t

Sorry about the error in the road number. It was 1 am here and I know better. A cab from the airport to 280 area will run around $35 - $40 bucks but most of the hotels do have airport shuttles much cheaper. <p>Good luck. My son(6) and daughter(11) flew for the first time this spring to Disney World. Our regular plane was cancelled due to mechanical failure and the replacement plane was a 16 seater propeller plane. Both of them thought it was really cool. I was the one with white knuckles. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] <p>Have fun,<p>Lynn

Hi Cinderella,<p>I responded to your EN post and I just happened to find you here. I live in Pelham, it’s south of Hoover, a suburb of Birmingham, and I live about 8 miles from the Galleria.<p>You’ve received some great advice. It’s a shame you cannot get near the Galleria, but I totally understand the cost issue. I would have the same problem.<p>Given the choices you listed I would select either the Hampton Inn Colonnade or Key West Inn Colonnade. There are a lot of shops around there and nearby a relatively large shopping mall called the Summit, but as was stated most of these places probably require a car to get to them from where you will be staying. The Summit can be seen from the hotel, but it’s on the other side of the interstate across a very busy exit and intersection.<p>I hope you have a great trip.<p>Take Care,
Derrel [img]images/icons/wink.gif" border="0[/img]<p>[ June 22, 2002: Message edited by: Lost & Found ]</p>

I'm back, and I see you've gotten some great advice!!<p>Collonade area (Hwy 280) is great.
Trussville is also a nice, new and growing area. There's a beautiful new shopping center with movie theater and shopping, but the only things in walking-distance from hotels are eating places.
Oak Mountain (Hwy 119) is also a beautiful area. Hotels and plenty of eating places. And Oak Mountain State Park with hiking, lakes, etc. right there (not walking distance).<p>I can't think of any shopping within walking distance of hotels - in nice areas - without paying a lot.<p>Wiffle had some great suggestions. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] <p>It would be great to plan a little get-together for us.<p>[ June 23, 2002: Message edited by: Faith1 ]</p>

Shopping, Schmopping.<p>I'm travelling with a 9yo boy. Like he wants to shop; like I can afford to shop. [img]images/icons/mad.gif" border="0[/img] (I used to have money for that - now I have an x)<p>We land at 3:15 Saturday afternoon and leave at 11:45 Sunday morning. I'm really not worried about entertainment.<p>I figure we swim Saturday. Eat dinner. Go to bed. Get up. Eat breakfast. And leave. I can get the overpriced souvenier at the airport. This is his first flight, after all and sister isn't getting to go. So, that would work.<p>But we could arrange a get together. At a restaurant near my hotel.

Of the 5 choices you have narrowed down to, I would go with the Hampton at the Colonnade first, then the Key West Inn at the Colonnade as a second choice. I bet that Hampton has an airport shuttle and they have a continental breakfast (I think).
Let us know what you decide.

The people at the Key West on Colonnade suggested the Hampton Inn as it is across the street from food. [img]images/icons/grin.gif" border="0[/img] They have airport shuttle and I can get a shuttle to the mall like I really want to go. Well, I will have 2 souveniers to buy. <p>But we fly in at 3:15 Saturday. Stay at the HI and fly out at 11:30 Sunday.<p>Son is excited. D is getting to spend night with grandmother and is pretty excited - as long as she gets a gift. [img]images/icons/rolleyes.gif" border="0[/img] <p>So, what about a 'meet and greet'?

Letsee... there's a few eating places at the Colonnade... and MANY MANY within a mile. Someone could pick you up at the Hampton and we could all meet somewhere for dinner. Or we could all meet in front of the Hampton and then decide where to go. <p>5:30? 7:30?<p>Wiffle??? Lost and Found? Whattaya think? <p>280: Bahama Breeze, Superior Grill, Joe's Crab Shack
There's a couple of new places in the new Target area. I haven't tried those yet.
Colonnade: Pablos, Johnny Ray's, Ruby Tuesday
Summit: Macaroni Grill, California Pizza Kitchen, On the Border, Johnny Rocket's<p>[ June 26, 2002: Message edited by: Faith1 ]</p>

I would love too, but I am going to be out of town this weekend (wouldn't ya know?) Ya'll have a great time and post about it afterwards!<p>Any of the places you mentioned would be good and fun. Enjoy!

Y'all decide where. You could pick me up or the hotel may have shuttle - they say they do - as far as the mall. Remember, I will have a 9yo boy in tow. And he will expect to swim maybe before and after. I'm good only as long as he is. Oh, and he has to get his souvenier. Yup, gotta plan the trip around that and a gift for his sister. She's easy. A book or animal thing. Or maybe hair dodahs.<p>Wiffle, you are forbidden from being gone that weekend. That's just this Saturday. After all, you grew up in Nashville. No way you can miss this!<p>I'm getting excited.<p>I know son has eaten at Joe's Crab shack. I love the Macaroni Grill. They have this one chicken dish that has artichokes and capers in it, I think, that is to die for. Or to live for. I eat anything. That's why I'm no smaller.<p>Speak to me!!!<p>I'm getting excited.

What do you think about 5:30? That would give you time to swim before or after dinner, right? Doesn't matter to me. I was just thinking 5:30 (or even 5:00 ??) would be a better time to get into the restaurant without a long wait. You know, it's earlier than the rest of the Saturday nite eater-outers. <p>Macaroni Grill sounds good to me! I could pick you up at the HI. <p>I usually post on GQII. There's a picture of me on the Photo thread. I went to Houston and had lunch with some MB'ers there [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] . <p>I hope Lost and Found can join us... or anyone else that is in the area! I hate that Wiffle can't be there too!!! [img]images/icons/frown.gif" border="0[/img] <p>If you want, you can e-mail me at faith1again@yahoo.com so we can talk more. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img]

Let me talk with that boy of mine. See if he wants to swim first or eat first. If he swims first, we will have to leave the pool for dinner but if we eat first, then he can swim till he gets tired. That works for me.<p>But who knows about him. <p>I'll try to email you tonight. Meanwhile, my email address is jane_elisem@yahoo.com.

Well, tody is the day. So far, son is excited about this. Gotta get going. Tonight, dinner in Birmingham. Let's see, shall I wear one of my "Princess" t-shirts and my tiara to dinner so that I will be recognizable.

Sounds great!

Lost and Found... u around? Post if you want to join us! Or Wiffle - if you happen to be in town!

<img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />