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Top 24 Hotels Near Birmingham Crossplex
2331 Bessemer Rd. Birmingham, AL 35208
Comfort Inn & Suites at CrossPlex Village
In Birmingham, Comfort Inn & Suites at CrossPlex Village has a strollable location relative to Birmingham Crossplex, letting guests easily transition from their room to the event.
Comfort Inn arranges reception, concierge, and parking info within sight to simplify initial orientation and avoid backtracking in the lobby. Guest rooms present clear sightlines from door to bed to desk, helping late-night arrivals move in swiftly and start routines with ease. Guest laundry areas accept cards or app payments, simplifying wash cycles during multi-night stays and keeping upkeep predictable on longer stays.
From grab-and-go markets, in-room microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee points, quick meals and snacks happen without detours.
Days Inn by Wyndham Birmingham / West
The quick drive from Days Inn by Wyndham Birmingham / West to Birmingham Crossplex in Birmingham ensures guests a simple and reliable way to get to their destination.
Lobby notices at Days Inn set expectations for quiet hours and common-area use, keeping evening flow orderly as guests settle. Every guest room provides a desk, task lamp, and desk-height outlets beside Wi-Fi, making quick emails, maps, and confirmations straightforward. Vending alcoves cluster cold drinks, packaged snacks, and a microwave along main corridors to cover late arrivals without a detour.
Wi-Fi, a breakfast item, and a fitness room connect with a pool and business corner, keeping starts clear and cooldowns close to elevators.
Tourway Inn
This direct drive to Birmingham Crossplex from Tourway Inn lets guests to feel more in control of their schedule in Birmingham.
Tourway Inn typically includes an efficient counter, self-serve coffee, and nearby parking stalls to support reliable travel flow. Guest rooms often feature premium bedding, climate control, and streaming-enabled TVs, promoting both rest and entertainment during stays. Facilities often include guest laundries, vending corners, and compact business areas that create balance for both rest and productivity.
Accommodations often present Wi-Fi, guest laundry, modest breakfast, and parking, maintaining practical routines for visiting guests.
Comfort Inn Birmingham Homewood
For guests in Birmingham, Comfort Inn Birmingham Homewood keeps Birmingham Crossplex an easy drive, a spot that makes for a hassle-free start to the day.
At the threshold Comfort Inn places charging hubs and small work nooks near seating, so quick emails or calls fit into arrival routines. Each guest room supplies quality linens, extra pillows, and a quiet HVAC profile to support consistent sleep across different time zones. Outdoor pools, at select addresses, incorporate shallow sections and cabanas, supporting family downtime and shade-seeking breaks in sunny seasons.
Between laundry services, reliable Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and parking options, multi-night stays and team travel stay organized.
Super 8 by Wyndham Homewood Birmingham Area
Birmingham Crossplex is within easy reach of Super 8 by Wyndham Homewood Birmingham Area, a convenience that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Murals in updated Super 8 lobbies contribute to neighborhood identity, giving travelers subtle design cues alongside functionality. Each guest room includes microwaves, mini-fridges, and outlets, making everyday conveniences easily accessible to all travelers. Breakfast counters serving cereals, coffee, and fruit make mornings smooth, giving guests predictable clarity across all stays.
Pet policies, Wi-Fi, and breakfast dining combine with laundry and parking, covering predictable routines for both families and groups.
Motel 6 Birmingham AL
The benefit of a simple drive to Birmingham Crossplex renders Motel 6 Birmingham AL into a great starting point before the main on-site experience.
Morning coffee stations at Motel 6 are typically visible from reception, helping travelers orient and refresh before heading to their rooms. Each guest room supplies a flat-screen TV, cable channels, and Wi-Fi connectivity, supporting reliable entertainment and communication needs. Morning coffee service is emphasized by staff at check-in, reminding travelers of this courtesy as they plan daily departures.
With guest laundry, parking, Wi-Fi, and accessible features, travelers maintain clean routines and reliable mobility throughout visits.
Kings Inn Civic Center UAB
For a visit where a simple drive is key, Kings Inn Civic Center UAB keeps Birmingham Crossplex a simple drive, making travel a manageable task.
Arrivals at Kings Inn Civic Center UAB may feature modest lobby furnishings, complimentary parking, and vending services for budget-friendly arrivals. Each guest room may include hardwood accents, comfortable bedding, and complimentary Wi-Fi, helping guests maintain comfort and connection. Public areas may highlight breakfast rooms, vending stations, and modest seating that emphasize a simple and consistent guest routine.
A visit may feature Wi-Fi, vending machines, parking, and laundry facilities, reflecting the reliable ease of budget accommodations.
Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook Autograph Collection
The hotel's spot a simple drive from Birmingham Crossplex gives Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook Autograph Collection guests a direct way to manage their daily schedule.
Autograph Collection emphasizes uniqueness with curated art, bold décor, and polished finishes, creating impressions that feel distinct. Suites feature hardwood floors, curated minibars, and bright décor, providing stylish details that enhance daily guest routines. Guests at the outdoor pool encounter shaded cabanas, towel service, and loungers, amenities that provide relaxation and comfort reliably.
With spa treatments, outdoor pools, dining venues, and valet parking, guests enjoy relaxation and reliability across all stays.
Travel Inn
This easy drive to Birmingham Crossplex allows Travel Inn to serve as a calm starting point before a quick trip to the event.
Travel Inn often highlights compact front-desk setups, parking close to entry points, and vending machines to support quick check-in. Rooms typically highlight simple seating, curated décor, and in-room coffee that may provide a reliable sense of comfort during travel. Shared spaces typically provide vending access, guest laundries, and compact lobbies that reflect the functional focus of budget hotels.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending access, and laundry spaces, supporting consistent routines while traveling.
Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Birmingham
The journey from Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Birmingham to Birmingham Crossplex is a direct run, a perk that contributes to an effortless visit.
Hilton Garden Inn atriums with modern lighting and open sightlines provide orientation clarity, ensuring guests move confidently on arrival. Guest rooms include microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, letting guests prepare snacks and drinks with convenient in-room appliances. Fitness centers with treadmills, weights, and stretching mats allow guests to maintain consistent exercise routines while traveling.
Fitness centers, complimentary internet, breakfast buffets, outdoor pools, and pet-friendly policies cover flexible guest requirements.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Birmingham Downtown
Guests at Home2 Suites by Hilton Birmingham Downtown can enjoy Birmingham Crossplex being within easy reach as a defining feature of a well-located stay.
Home2 Suites greets travelers with complimentary beverage service, dependable details that reinforce familiarity across all stays. Guest rooms integrate coffee makers, USB outlets, and premium bedding, giving travelers reliable comfort and convenience nightly. Guests in the laundry area access washers, dryers, and folding counters, keeping clothing routines easy and dependable during trips.
Guests access complimentary breakfast, business centers, markets, and pools, maintaining productivity alongside leisure reliably.
Extended Stay America Suites Birmingham Wildwood
For guests in Birmingham, Extended Stay America Suites Birmingham Wildwood keeps Birmingham Crossplex a simple cross-town drive, a spot that supports an efficient itinerary.
For a simple morning start, the grab-and-go breakfast at Extended Stay America offers coffee and a breakfast bar for ultimate convenience. The combination of a stovetop and a full refrigerator gives hotel guests the freedom to pursue their own culinary routines while away. A clean and refreshing swimming pool is a fantastic amenity for families, offering a fun, no-cost way to entertain children.
A strong set of features like a swimming pool, a fitness center, guest laundry, and a full kitchen adds residential comfort to any journey.
Hampton Inn Birmingham I-65 / Lakeshore Drive
This uncomplicated commute to Birmingham Crossplex helps Hampton Inn Birmingham I-65 / Lakeshore Drive guests feel acquainted with the local Birmingham area without a long journey.
Hampton Inn Pavilion-style lobby markets stock snacks, drinks, and essentials, offering immediate convenience to support guest needs. Suites contain sofa beds, televisions, and lounge chairs, creating versatile living areas where families can relax together in comfort. Fitness studios with resistance machines, mats, and cardio options allow guests to maintain routines that support health and clarity.
Breakfast buffets, complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pools, pet-friendly services, and EV charging provide modern balance for diverse travelers.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Birmingham Downtown
Because Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Birmingham Downtown keeps Birmingham Crossplex a simple drive, guests can easily transition to the next part of their day.
To aid families, Fairfield Inn situates luggage benches and accessible seating at the lobby core so parents can stow bags and tend to kids quickly. Each suite offers flat-screen TVs, sofa seating, and mini-fridges, ensuring families have flexible layouts that balance rest and entertainment. Within the business area guests access computers, reliable Wi-Fi, and printers, providing continuity for work tasks away from the office.
Free Wi-Fi, business center access, complimentary breakfast, and fitness rooms ensure both productivity and wellness remain consistent during stays.
Elyton Hotel Autograph Collection by Marriott
This flexible location means Birmingham Crossplex is an easy drive from Elyton Hotel Autograph Collection by Marriott, letting guests travel with ease.
Guests entering Autograph Collection encounter community tables and concierge desks, orientation cues that simplify first steps. Each guest room provides ergonomic chairs, Wi-Fi access, and charging hubs, supporting comfort and productivity during business stays. In the meeting rooms, flexible layouts, AV setups, and ergonomic seating support productivity and convenience for professional gatherings.
Amenities include meeting rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, cultural lounges, and fitness centers, ensuring balance of work and leisure.
Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham-Downtown-Tutwiler
From Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham-Downtown-Tutwiler, Birmingham Crossplex is a simple drive, a detail that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
Infused water points near Hampton Inn reception seating create refreshing pauses, softening arrival fatigue for guests upon check-in. All guest rooms offer rainfall showers, vanities with lighting, and premium toiletries, providing elevated refreshment during daily routines. Meeting rooms with audiovisual gear, flexible seating, and internet access provide practical spaces for group collaboration and focus.
Complimentary breakfast, laundry facilities, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and Wi-Fi maintain dependable convenience for longer visits.
Sonesta ES Suites Birmingham Homewood
In Birmingham, Sonesta ES Suites Birmingham Homewood's location a direct run from Birmingham Crossplex lets guests move easily before their stay begins.
Sonesta underscores approachable service with check-in clarity, calm décor, and subtle courtesy touches that set the stage for extended routines. Each guest room features ergonomic chairs, microwaves, and high-speed internet, reinforcing both productivity and personal comfort during stays. Indoor pool settings combine warm atmosphere, water features, and seating to create calming retreats that invite guests to revive and reconnect.
With free Wi-Fi, shuttle access, fitness centers, laundry service, breakfast stations, and pools, guests maintain predictable ease each day.
Sheraton Birmingham Hotel
From Sheraton Birmingham Hotel, Birmingham Crossplex is an uncomplicated drive, a choice that gives guests more command over their travel.
With Community Tables and modular seating, Sheraton transforms lobbies into welcoming zones for work, meetings, or relaxed leisure. Guest rooms supply blackout curtains, coffee service, and premium bedding, creating dependable comfort and ease for all guests. At the lobby seating, Community Tables, bright décor, and modular furniture offer social hubs that encourage connection and comfort.
Amenities include indoor pools, Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and laundry access, supporting consistent comfort and convenience daily.
Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham Downtown at UAB
The benefit of a direct drive to Birmingham Crossplex turns Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham Downtown at UAB into a great hub before the main experience begins.
Courtyard reinforces its identity through practical design, beverage rituals, and reception clarity, ensuring arrivals feel consistent. Suites deliver hardwood floors, stocked minibars, and bright décor, stylish touches that reinforce comfort with consistent reliability. At the Bistro, light meals, Starbucks® drinks, and soft seating balance productivity and relaxation for guests throughout the day.
Guests access indoor pools, Starbucks® coffee, meeting rooms, and valet parking, consistent features that combine convenience daily.
John Hand Club Hotel
This convenient commute to Birmingham Crossplex enables John Hand Club Hotel to be a convenient anchor before the on-site experience starts.
Guests at John Hand Club Hotel may encounter intimate reception areas, artisanal touches, and staff offering friendly boutique-style service. Guest rooms typically present artisanal touches, plush bedding, and curated minibars for a refined and boutique-oriented stay. Shared spaces typically showcase curated interiors, artisanal coffee service, and cozy lounges that reflect boutique orientation.
A visit may present complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry support, EV charging, and self-serve markets, sustaining boutique practicality daily.
Four Points by Sheraton Birmingham Homewood
The hotel's spot an uncomplicated drive from Birmingham Crossplex gives Four Points by Sheraton Birmingham Homewood guests a direct option for their daily commute.
Guests visiting Sheraton notice statement lighting, polished finishes, and concierge service, elements that simplify first impressions. Suites present rainfall showers, soaking tubs, and plush towels, rituals that refresh and restore travelers consistently. In the meeting rooms, ergonomic chairs, projectors, and reliable Wi-Fi support productivity for professional gatherings of any size.
Guests enjoy fitness centers, business hubs, complimentary breakfast, and outdoor pools, providing reliable balance every stay.
Spark by Hilton Homewood Birmingham
From the moment you check in at Spark by Hilton Homewood Birmingham, Birmingham Crossplex is a simple cross-town drive, simplifying your itinerary.
Guests at Hilton encounter complimentary lobby coffee and tea service, a ritual that provides comfort and familiarity across stays. Every suite features premium bath amenities, plush robes, and spacious vanities, giving travelers refreshing consistency daily. The fitness center stocked with treadmills, ellipticals, and mats lets guests keep routines balanced and wellness goals consistent daily.
Guests benefit from hot breakfast, valet parking, business services, and Wi-Fi, ensuring productivity and comfort are maintained daily.
Redmont Hotel Birmingham Curio Collection by Hilton
At Redmont Hotel Birmingham Curio Collection by Hilton, Birmingham Crossplex is a simple drive, a key element that supports a flexible and relaxed visit.
When entering Curio, mobile key check-in pairs with curated lighting, ensuring both convenience and orientation clarity on arrival. Suites highlight curated local décor, premium bedding, and upgraded bath fixtures, giving guests a blend of style and rest. Restaurants highlight chef-prepared specials, fresh ingredients, and attentive service, making dining experiences convenient and unique.
Rooftop pools, breakfast buffets, Wi-Fi access, fitness rooms, and valet service provide comfort and function across different stay types.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Birmingham Homewood
The uncomplicated drive from La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Birmingham Homewood to Birmingham Crossplex in Birmingham guarantees guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
Lobby spaces at La Quinta feature bright décor and functional seating clusters, ensuring orientation clarity during every arrival. Suites add sofa beds, dining areas, and multiple televisions, offering versatile layouts for families or groups on extended visits. Pools offering loungers, umbrellas, and towel service create reliable leisure areas for both relaxation and family enjoyment.
Free Wi-Fi, self-parking, and breakfast setups pair with pools and vending, ensuring balance across professional and leisure trips.
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Birmingham Crossplex Local Area Guide
The Birmingham CrossPlex is a world-class athletic facility that often catches first-time visitors by surprise. Located in the Five Points West neighborhood, this massive complex houses one of the fastest indoor tracks in the world (a rare hydraulic banked Mondotrack), a 50-meter Olympic swimming pool, and a 5,000-seat arena. It is a primary destination for NCAA Championships and elite club meets. For visiting families, the facility is a pristine, modern island in an older, developing part of the city. Inside, the amenities are top-tier, offering excellent sightlines and a "big meet" atmosphere. However, the surrounding area is a food and hotel desert compared to other major venues, meaning you will likely be commuting from downtown or the suburbs for most of your meals and sleep. This guide is designed to help you navigate the logistics of the CrossPlex. You will learn how to handle the "clear bag" policy, where to find the legendary "meat-and-three" restaurant just a short drive away, and why staying in Homewood might be your best strategic move.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Birmingham CrossPlex (Birmingham, AL)
The facility is located on Bessemer Road in the Five Points West neighborhood, about 10-15 minutes west of downtown Birmingham. The "neighborhood" immediately surrounding the venue is a mix of older residential streets and commercial strip malls. While the CrossPlex grounds are secure, well-lit, and anchored by a police precinct, the broader area has a reputation for higher crime rates. Visitors are generally advised to stay within the CrossPlex Village development (where the Comfort Inn and Starbucks are located) or travel by car rather than walking extensively in the surrounding residential blocks, especially at night. Access is easy via I-20/59, which feeds directly onto the main road. The nearest major travel hub is Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), located just 15-20 minutes east. Parking at the facility is abundant and—rare for a venue of this caliber—free in the massive surface lots. The area is functional for competition but lacks a walkable "downtown" vibe; think of it as a commuter campus for sports.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Birmingham CrossPlex
Accommodation strategy comes down to a choice between Proximity and Lifestyle.
The Proximity Play: The Comfort Inn & Suites at CrossPlex Village is the only hotel within walking distance. It is modern, built specifically for the venue, and allows athletes to walk to warm-ups. However, it sells out instantly for major meets.
The Lifestyle Play: Most teams prefer staying in Homewood or Downtown Birmingham. Hotels like the Sheraton Birmingham or Westin Birmingham (Downtown) are near the Uptown entertainment district. The Aloft Birmingham Soho Square (Homewood) puts you in a safe, walkable suburb filled with boutiques and restaurants, just a 15-minute drive from the track.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth Intl (BHM) · 15 min drive.
- Parking is free in large surface lots.
- Civil Rights Institute · 10 min drive.
- Vulcan Park & Museum or Barber Museum.
- Eugene's Hot Chicken or Niki's West.
Meet Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Arrive at least 75 minutes before your event. The parking lot is massive; try to park near the side of the building corresponding to your sport (Track vs. Natatorium) to minimize walking. Spectators must enter through the main front glass atrium and pass through security. Athletes often have a designated side entrance near the warm-up areas (check your meet packet). The facility enforces a Clear Bag Policy for spectators, similar to NFL stadiums—do not bring large backpacks unless you are a competing athlete.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between events, the CrossPlex concourse offers plenty of space, but seating can be hard to find during championships. There is a "VIP" level often reserved for coaches or hospitality. For fresh air, you can step out into the CrossPlex Village plaza, but there isn't a park nearby for lounging. Most families drive 10 minutes to Uptown or Niki's West for a real meal during long breaks, as on-site concessions are standard arena fare (hot dogs, popcorn).
Wrap-Up & Departure
Exiting the parking lot is usually efficient thanks to traffic officers. If you are heading to a team dinner, the Uptown district near the BJCC is designed for large groups. Be aware that Bessemer Road can be busy with commuter traffic on weekday afternoons. Double-check your seating area for trash; the facility prides itself on cleanliness.
Things to Do Near CrossPlex
Walkable
CrossPlex Village
This purpose-built commercial strip attached to the venue is limited but incredibly useful for visiting teams. It features a Starbucks, which is an absolute lifeline for parents during those early morning prelim sessions, as well as a few fast-casual dining spots. While it is not a major tourist attraction, it allows parents to grab coffee, Wi-Fi, or a quick bite without having to navigate the car out of the parking lot. It is safe, well-lit, and always populated by other swim or track families, creating a small community bubble right outside the venue doors.
On site · AdjacentBill Harris Arena
Sharing the campus with the CrossPlex, the Bill Harris Arena is a historic venue that often hosts wrestling tournaments, basketball games, or concerts simultaneously with track meets. While you likely won't be competing there, during large multi-sport festivals, it contributes to the "Olympic Village" energy of the complex. It is worth taking a quick walk over just to see the architecture and the scale of the operations. The proximity of these venues underscores the massive investment the city has made in sports tourism in this specific corridor.
On site · Adjacent5–15 Minutes Away
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Located in the heart of the historic Civil Rights District, this museum offers a deeply moving and essential look at the American struggle for equality. Situated directly across from the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park—sites of pivotal moments in the movement—the institute uses immersive exhibits to chronicle the history of segregation and the fight for human rights in Birmingham. Visitors walk through galleries that replicate the sights and sounds of the 1950s and 60s, offering a powerful educational experience for young athletes. It is widely considered one of the most significant cultural destinations in the South. Expect to spend at least two hours here to fully absorb the weight and importance of the history presented.
16th St N · 4.0 miBarber Vintage Motorsports Museum
Ideally suited for a "dad trip" or anyone who appreciates engineering and design, this museum houses the world's largest collection of vintage motorcycles and Lotus race cars. The facility itself is a work of art, featuring a pristine, glass-enclosed structure surrounded by a beautifully landscaped racetrack. Even if you aren't a "car person," the sheer scale and beauty of the collection—stacked five levels high in a central atrium—are impressive. It is located a bit further east of the city but is absolutely worth the drive on a day off. It provides a fascinating, visually stunning break from the repetitive environment of the indoor track or pool.
Barber Motorsports Pkwy · 20 min driveBeyond the Event: If you have a free day, Vulcan Park and Museum offers the best views of the city from the top of the world's largest cast-iron statue, a symbol of Birmingham's industrial past. The McWane Science Center downtown is a fantastic, interactive museum with an aquarium in the basement, perfect for occupying younger siblings. Railroad Park is a massive urban green space in the city center that is perfect for a team shake-out run or a picnic.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near CrossPlex
Inside & Adjacent
J Wings
Located in the strip just outside the venue, J Wings is a local favorite for—you guessed it—wings. They offer a huge variety of flavors, with the Lemon Pepper and Honey BBQ being standouts, alongside massive orders of loaded fries. It is fast, casual, and one of the few non-chain options you can walk to from the natatorium entrance. It serves as a perfect spot for a quick, greasy comfort meal after a long meet when you don't have the energy to drive downtown. Be prepared for a wait on Friday nights as locals love it too.
CrossPlex Blvd · 0.2 miJack's
A Southern institution, Jack's is famous for its scratch-made breakfast biscuits, crinkle-cut fries, and hand-dipped milkshakes. A relatively new location serves the CrossPlex specifically, offering a clean and modern environment. It is the most reliable spot for a fast, affordable breakfast before those early morning warm-ups, beating out the standard hotel continental offerings. It is cleaner and higher quality than national fast-food chains, offering a true taste of Alabama fast food. It is a mandatory stop for anyone who hasn't experienced a Jack's biscuit.
CrossPlex Blvd · 0.2 miNearby Gathering Spots
Niki's West
A Birmingham institution since 1957, Niki's West provides the definitive Alabama "meat-and-three" dining experience. This massive, cafeteria-style restaurant is famous for its fast-moving line and overwhelming variety of fresh options. You grab a tray and choose from a dazzling array of Southern staples, including pot roast, fried chicken, turnip greens, and macaroni and cheese. It is iconic not just for the food, but for the sheer efficiency of the service, making it perfect for hungry teams on a tight schedule. Do not skip the dessert station, where the homemade pies and banana pudding are legendary. While the interior is simple and no-frills, the food is authentic, affordable, and consistently delicious.
Finley Blvd · 3.5 miEugene's Hot Chicken
Located in the "Uptown" entertainment district near the convention center, Eugene's serves Nashville-style hot chicken that rivals anything in Tennessee. You can choose your heat level from "Southern" (no heat) to "Stupid Hot," served with traditional sides like coleslaw and fries. The Uptown area is designated for visitors, offering safe, lighted streets and multiple restaurant options in one block, making it a great destination for a team dinner where everyone can pick their own spot if needed. Eugene's is vibrant, loud, and perfect for a fun, casual meal. The Jumbo Tenders are a team favorite.
Uptown District · 4.0 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Saw's BBQ (Homewood)
If you have a car, the drive to Homewood for Saw's is mandatory. It consistently ranks as some of the best BBQ in the South. Their signature dish, "Pork & Greens" (served over cheese grits), is a life-changing meal that combines all the best Southern flavors in one bowl. The Homewood location is casual, friendly, and deeply embedded in the local community. It is worth the commute to escape the industrial vibe of the venue area and see the charming, residential side of Birmingham living. The white BBQ sauce is a local specialty you must try.
Oxmoor Rd · 15 min driveRodney Scott's BBQ
Run by a James Beard Award-winning pitmaster, this spot offers whole-hog BBQ that is famous nationwide. The venue is bright, airy, and features a great outdoor patio, making it a refreshing change from dark steakhouses. Located near the Rotary Trail, it allows for a nice evening walk after dinner. The food is elite—specifically the whole hog sandwiches and ribeye sandwiches—but the atmosphere remains relaxed enough for track gear. It is a fantastic spot to experience high-end culinary technique in a laid-back setting.
3rd Ave S · 15 min driveLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Bag Policy: Clear bags only for spectators; strict enforcement.
- Parking: Free surface lots; do not leave valuables visible in your car.
- Safety: Stay in the CrossPlex Village or drive to destinations; avoid wandering neighborhood streets at night.
- Climate: The indoor facility is kept cool; bring a hoodie even if it's hot outside.
- Groceries: Marino's Market is nearby for water/snacks, but limited options.
Weather & Seasons at CrossPlex
- Winter: December through February is the primary indoor track season. Highs are usually in the 50s, but nights dip to freezing. It is generally rainy. The facility is climate-controlled, so the weather only affects your drive.
- Spring & early summer: March through May sees temperatures rise into the 70s. Warning: This is peak tornado season in Alabama. Pay attention to sirens and venue announcements.
- Mid-summer: June through August is oppressive. Highs in the 90s with heavy humidity. The CrossPlex air conditioning is a sanctuary. Afternoon thunderstorms are almost daily.
- Fall season: September through November is the best weather of the year—sunny, dry, and mild. Great for exploring the outdoor attractions like Vulcan Park.
- Rain & snow: Snow is rare (maybe once a year). Rain is frequent and heavy. The facility has excellent drainage, but the parking lots can get puddle-heavy.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Bham CrossPlex / NCAA.
- Neighborhood: Five Points West.
- Nearest airport: Birmingham (BHM).
- Parking: Free Surface Lots.
- Walkable district: No (Car recommended).
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Marino's Market (Bessemer Rd).
- Pharmacy: Walgreens (Bessemer Rd).
- Urgent care: American Family Care (Homewood).
- Downtime: Civil Rights Institute.
- Pro tip: Stay in Homewood.

