Allstate Insurance: Byron Eaton

The stories, the struggles and the triumphs of the people who lived through the era of segregation in Birmingham are all respectfully remembered at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. The galleries in this impressive facility are filled with multimedia exhibits and attractions that vividly tell the story of the Civil Rights Movement both in Birmingham and other cities. This museum is also a research facility that focuses on human rights issues and presents various programs and seminars on a regular basis.

The Nick has made quite a name for itself when it comes to introducing Birmingham's nightlife audiences to some of the best up and coming rock bands that are on the verge of making it big. Groups that play everything from alternative rock, goth, emo and more are booked for gigs at this iconic venue. There's always something worth seeing on the performance schedule, so make sure to check The Nick's website frequently.

While the name may echo the classic television show Star Trek, there's nothing otherworldly about the Vulcan, the world's largest cast-iron sculpture. This visually compelling structure was created to pay tribute to the city's early iron industry. It weighs over 60 tons, stands over 55-feet-tall and was originally constructed for the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. Today the attraction stands next to an observation tower in the center of Vulcan Park that allows a somewhat closer look at this fascinating piece of history.