In addition to the myriad of entertaiment at your disposal in the National Exhibition Centre, (see About Birmingham NEC) Birmingham has a host more attractions and activities for you to enjoy:
Put some sparkle in your life with a walk in the Jewellery Quarter where jewelry has been made and sold for more than 250 years.
Leave the past behind at the IKON Gallery, a stunning center for modern and contemporary art.
Follow the Tolkien Trail to see the places and buildings that inspired the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. Maps are available from the Tourism Centre & Ticketshop,The Rotunda, 150 New Street, Birmingham, B2 4PA
Shop until you drop! Birmingham is a huge retail center with some of the UK's top shops. Since the turn of the millenium, hundreds of millions have been invested in Birmingham's shopping precincts. Try the recently opened, £500 million Bull Ring Shopping Centre, and the fabulous designer shops in The Mailbox.
If these activites are not to your taste don't fret! For the music lovers Birmingham has an affluence of music to suit your taste whatever it be. A must for classical fans is a performance by the celebrated City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, whilst those into hip hop should definitely make a date at the many 'sessions' held in our bars and clubs. If you are into more alternative music, check out one of the many gigs that take place throughout the city every night.
The 02 academy is a great way to see all of the hottest indie and metal bands perform in the region - there is a really varied music scene in the city of Birmingham so you will always discover something to match your personal preference.
The IMAX movie theatre is an additional recommendation - With such a huge screen it is one of the very best ways to experience a motion picture. The sound is every bit as good as the picture element and simply leaves you feeling like you have walked straight into the flick rather than just staying at a movie theater to watch it. Cannon Hill Park is yet another excellent spot for the family members especially in the summer time. You can find tennis surfaces, cycle pathways and paddle boats so you are sure to enjoy your visit. If you are into your outdoor activities you definately also try the Botanical Gardens an outdoor scenic complex consisting of six primary gardens: The Loudon Terrace, Primary Lawn & Bandstand, Historic Gardens, West Lawn and Herbaceous Border, The Herb Garden and the National Bonsai Collection - Again an excellent place to check out with the family in tow!
So no matter what you are into, Birmingham is sure to keep you entertained. Why not try a stay in the area around the NEC and be close to the arena, the airport and the train station to take you wherever you see fit! (see getting here)