Avondale, Alabama: The Complete Guide
4 Reasons to Move to Avondale, AL
Avondale, Alabama is one of Birmingham’s most vibrant and artistic neighborhoods, blending rich history with edgy, creative charm. Just east of downtown, this walkable area has transformed into one of the most desirable places to live, work, and play. Here’s why people are flocking to Avondale:
The District
Avondale doesn’t have “villages”—it has personality. The Avondale Commercial District is a buzzing hotspot with locally owned coffee shops, craft breweries, tattoo parlors, vintage boutiques, and award-winning eateries. Whether you’re sipping a cold one at Avondale Brewing Co., grabbing brunch at The Essential, or perusing handmade goods at Seasick Records or Honeycreeper Chocolate, Avondale feels alive. It’s a haven for creatives and entrepreneurs—and it shows in every mural, storefront, and sidewalk patio.
East Avondale
Over the past decade, East Avondale has experienced a full-blown renaissance. Where once stood boarded-up buildings now stand breweries, bike shops, and some of the city’s most stylish bungalows and cottages. It’s a haven for first-time buyers and long-time locals alike. Avondale Park anchors the neighborhood with its duck pond, historic amphitheater, and lush green space—hosting everything from yoga classes to food truck festivals.
Families love East Avondale for its sense of community, walkability, and eclectic housing styles—from restored 1920s homes to modern infill builds.
Scenic Beauty & Outdoor Recreation
Tucked into the lush, 36-acre expanse of Avondale Park lies one of Birmingham’s best-kept historical treasures: the Avondale Outdoor Theater. Built in the early 1930s as part of the New Deal-era WPA (Works Progress Administration) efforts, this open-air amphitheater was thoughtfully designed by landscape architect Rubee Jeffery Pearse. It sits gently carved into Park Mountain—Avondale’s highest natural point—creating a naturally tiered bowl perfect for performances under the Alabama sky.
Crafted with native sandstone, the terraced seating areas are blanketed in grass and shaded by towering trees, giving the space a cozy, tucked-away charm. From the stage, performers and guests alike enjoy sweeping views of the duck pond and surrounding greenery—turning every show into a scene straight out of a Southern storybook.
Upscale Shopping & Dining
Avondale is a foodie’s paradise by day and a nightlife hotspot after dark, blending casual charm with culinary creativity and plenty of local flavor. From smoky BBQ and craft pizza to sushi burritos and gourmet hot dogs, there’s something for every craving—and once the sun sets, the vibe shifts into high gear with live music, local brews, and late-night cocktails. Some of the neighborhood favorites include: Saw’s Soul Kitchen, Post Office Pies, Wasabi Juan’s, Avondale Common House, Hot Diggity Dogs, The Thirsty Donkey, Avondale Brewing Company, Ferus on 41st, Parkside on Fifth, and The Marble Ring.
AVONDALE LOCATION & SHOPPING
Avondale’s location is unbeatable—just minutes from downtown Birmingham, UAB, Lakeview, and Crestwood. While it may not be known for big-box shopping, it shines with indie flair. You’ll find:
- Vintage and record shops
- Boutiques with local flair
- Artisanal markets
- Plant shops, wine bars, and locally owned cafes
And if you need your basics, you’re still just 5 minutes from Target, Publix, and major retailers.
LIVING IN AVONDALE, ALABAMA
Living in Avondale is like being part of a movement. It’s where chefs open experimental kitchens, where artists find inspiration, and where families find neighborhood charm without sacrificing city access. From historic cottages with front porches to modern townhomes and loft-style condos, there’s something for everyone.
You’ll see neighbors walking dogs, families enjoying Avondale Park, and locals gathered under string lights at a brewery patio. Community events like Porchfest and the Avondale Holiday Market bring the neighborhood together year after year. It’s not just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle.
AVONDALE WEATHER
Avondale enjoys Birmingham’s typical southern weather—long summers, mild winters, and a healthy dose of spring and fall sunshine. Expect temps between 40°F and 90°F throughout the year, with brief dips below freezing in winter and some hot, humid days in July and August. Summer thunderstorms are common, but they keep everything lush and green—perfect for park days and porch sittin’.
AVONDALE POPULATION
Avondale is technically part of Birmingham, but it’s very much its own community. While the neighborhood doesn’t have its own census count, it’s estimated that around 3,000 to 4,000 people call Avondale home. It’s a tight-knit area with a big personality.
WHERE IS AVONDALE, ALABAMA?
Avondale is nestled just east of downtown Birmingham. It borders Crestwood North, Forest Park, and Lakeview. It’s about 10 minutes from UAB and 15 minutes from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. With its mix of historic charm and modern convenience, it’s a true gem “over the mountain” but still urban at heart.
MOUNTAIN BROOK MAP
AVONDALE HISTORY
Once a streetcar suburb in the early 1900s, Avondale has deep roots. Its namesake park was a major attraction for families in the 1920s, even housing a zoo that eventually became the Birmingham Zoo. Like many urban neighborhoods, Avondale went through economic decline mid-century, but the 2010s brought an incredible revitalization.
Artists, investors, and visionaries brought life back to the historic commercial core. Breweries moved in, restaurants flourished, and the neighborhood’s spirit reawakened. Today, the area honors its roots with preserved architecture, historical markers, and cultural festivals—while embracing the energy of a new generation.
PARKS IN AVONDALE
Avondale is green, walkable, and full of charm. Here are a few local parks and recreation spots:
- Avondale Park (duck pond, playground, amphitheater)
• Crestwood Park (just next door)
• Eastside Greenway (bike paths & trails in development)
• Railroad Park (a quick hop downtown)
Avondale Park, the heart of the neighborhood, hosts concerts, outdoor movie nights, and family-friendly festivals year-round.
- Avondale Park (duck pond, playground, amphitheater)
AVONDALE NEWS & EVENTS
Want to keep up with what’s happening in Avondale? The best ways include:
- Following Village Living East or The Birmingham Times
- Tuning into the Avondale Brewing Co. event calendar
- Checking out Porchfest Birmingham, Parkside events, and local maker markets on Instagram
Community and culture go hand-in-hand in this part of town.
To keep up with everything in Avondale, Alabama, CLICK HERE.
AVONDALE SCHOOLS
While Avondale is part of the Birmingham City Schools system, many residents choose from a mix of public and private options nearby. Some of the area’s notable schools include:
Public:
• Avondale Elementary
• Putnam Middle
• Woodlawn High School
PRIVATE SCHOOLS LOCATED IN MOUNTAIN BROOK:
Private & Charter:
- • Highlands School
- • Cornerstone Schools of Alabama
- • Magic City Acceptance Academy
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT LIVING IN AVONDALE?
Feel free to call me anytime to learn more about living in AVONDALE, Alabama.
