Welcome to the Newto News for August of 2025. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

For more information, Go to newtomedia.com

Birmingham, Alabama was founded in 1871 as a result of the intersection of two major railroad lines in the region. Originally known as “Elyton,” the city quickly grew into a major industrial hub due to its abundant natural resources, including iron ore, coal, and limestone. By the early 1900s, Birmingham had earned the nickname “The Magic City” due to its rapid growth and booming steel industry. The city became a vital center for the production of iron and steel, leading to a significant increase in population as people migrated to the area in search of employment opportunities. Despite facing challenges such as labor strikes and racial tensions, Birmingham continued to thrive throughout the 20th century as a major manufacturing and industrial center in the South. Today, Birmingham is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as its renowned medical and research institutions. The city has transformed into a diverse and dynamic metropolis, while still retaining its historic roots in the steel industry.

The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  1. Healthcare
  2. Technology
  3. Manufacturing
  4. Education
  5. Finance
  6. Retail
  7. Hospitality
  8. Construction
  9. Transportation
  10. Government

The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  1. Hiking
  2. Biking
  3. Skiing
  4. Fishing
  5. Golfing
  6. Camping
  7. Kayaking
  8. Snowboarding
  9. Rock Climbing
  10. Wine Tasting

Average low and high temperature for the month:

Low: 50°F, High: 75°F

Average precipitation for the month:

2.5 inches

Elevation:

3,000 feet

Average home price:

$350,000

Average household income:

$60,000

The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  1. National Park
  2. Historical Museum
  3. Botanical Garden
  4. Zoo
  5. Waterfall
  6. Amusement Park
  7. Art Gallery
  8. Beach
  9. Observatory
  10. Tour of Historic Sites

The top 10 restaurants:

Highlands Bar & Grill

Five Points South

Highlands Bar & Grill is a James Beard Award-winning restaurant known for its Southern fine dining and French-inspired cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant yet comfortable, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Chez Fonfon

Five Points South

Chez Fonfon is a casual yet sophisticated French bistro offering classic French dishes. The ambiance is warm and lively, with an emphasis on authentic flavors and a selection of French wines.

Bottega Restaurant

Southside

Bottega Restaurant serves up Italian and Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish setting. Known for its impeccable service and refined menu, it offers both a café and a dining room experience.

OvenBird

Lakeview

OvenBird is a unique restaurant offering a menu inspired by the cuisine of Spain and the live-fire cooking techniques of South America. The atmosphere is vibrant, with shared plates ideal for exploration.

El Barrio

Downtown Birmingham

El Barrio offers a creative take on Mexican fare with a downtown vibe. Known for its vibrant interior and artful dishes, the restaurant provides a fresh and flavorful experience.

Hot and Hot Fish Club

Southside

Hot and Hot Fish Club combines Southern, French, and California-styles into creative, contemporary dishes. It’s a pioneer in the farm-to-table movement with an inviting and rustic setting.

Automatic Seafood and Oysters

Lakeview

Automatic Seafood and Oysters is a modern seafood restaurant focused on fresh and sustainable ingredients, offering a range of creative dishes in a sleek yet approachable atmosphere.

The Essential

Founders Station

The Essential is a chic bistro with an all-day menu featuring American and European-inspired dishes. Known for both brunch and dinner, its atmosphere is warm and inviting.

Bamboo on 2nd

Downtown Birmingham

Bamboo on 2nd offers a fusion of Asian-inspired cuisine with a modern twist, emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a casual downtown setting.

Saw’s Soul Kitchen

Avondale

Saw’s Soul Kitchen is famous for its authentic Southern barbecue and soul food dishes. It’s a laid-back, no-frills eatery known for its mouth-watering pulled pork, ribs, and fried green tomatoes.

Current Events:

New Orleans Pelicans v Houston Rockets Presented by CATALYST
Oct 14
Thu • 7:00pm

New Orleans Pelicans v Houston Rockets Presented by CATALYST

Legacy Arena at The BJCC

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Houston Rockets
Oct 14
Thu • 7:00pm

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Houston Rockets

Legacy Arena at The BJCC

Rick Springfield & Richard Marx 2025 - Acoustic Tour
Oct 07
Thu • 7:30pm

Rick Springfield & Richard Marx 2025 – Acoustic Tour

BJCC Concert Hall

Stayin' Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees
Mar 27
Thu • 7:30pm

Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees

The Lyric Theatre

demo
Aug 24
Thu • 9:00am

demo

QPWZL – TM Test Facility

demo
Aug 24
Thu • 9:00am

demo

QPWZL – TM Test Facility

UAB Blazers Football vs. Alabama State
Aug 28
Thu • 7:30pm

UAB Blazers Football vs. Alabama State

Protective Stadium

UAB Blazers Football vs. Alabama State Hornets Football
Aug 28
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UAB Blazers Football vs. Alabama State Hornets Football

Protective Stadium

Tyrese with special guests Tank, Lyfe Jennings and H-Town
Aug 30
Thu • 8:00pm

Tyrese with special guests Tank, Lyfe Jennings and H-Town

Legacy Arena at The BJCC