We asked our resident recruitment directors to share some of their favorite places to visit. Read below to find out how they enjoy spending their time outside the hospital.
Brittney Richardson, M.D.
Hometown
Birmingham, Alabama
Best places for soaking up the local culture
Vulcan Park is home of the Vulcan statue (the city symbol of Birmingham) and overlooks the city. The historic Alabama Theatre hosts live acts, concerts, and movies.
Best local haunts
Top Golf, the Lakeview District
Favorite place to take guests
Wake up early on a Saturday morning to visit the farmer's market at Pepper Place for local produce and crafts. Work up an appetite hiking Oak Mountain. Finish the day with dinner at one of the many restaurants Birmingham has to offer.
Best park, trail or golf course
Red Mountain Park is great for a jog and playtime at Remy's Dog Park. Railroad Park is a 19-acre green space in the heart of downtown near Regions Field.
Best nearby vacation spots
Gulf Shores is just a 4-hour drive from Birmingham and has great beaches with white sand. Atlanta and Nashville are both a short trip away for a fun and lively weekend.
Joseph Babcock, M.D.
Hometown
Gulf Breeze, Florida
Best places for local culture
The Market at Pepper Place is a great spot to pick up local produce and catch a bluegrass duo. Of course, barbecue is king in Alabama, and Birmingham has no shortage of spectacular options. Saturn is our go-to venue for live music.
Best local haunts
Saw's Juke Joint, Seasick Records
Favorite places to take guests
Chez Fon Fon for a game of bocce, Carrigan's Public House or El Barrio for food, Red Mountain Park for fresh air, and The Essential or Mile End for Sunday brunch.
Best things to do with children
Our annual passes for the Birmingham Zoo have paid for themselves many times over. McWane Science Center is great for hands-on learning. We go to Red Mountain, Oak Mountain, and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens to get outside.
Where I take in the scenic views
The King's Chair at Oak Mountain is a beautiful natural vista.
Best nearby vacation spots
My family still lives in the Florida panhandle (only a four-hour drive away), so we frequent the beach often. Chattanooga, Nashville, and Atlanta are all quick drives for a weekend trip as well.
Why I like the city
Birmingham is a very affordable place to raise a family—but with great food, music, and state parks, I don't feel like I sacrifice experience for value. I enjoy the urban setting of the hospital and the rural, open spaces just a short drive away.