Pre and Post-Concert: Best Things to Do Near Birmingham Venues

Birmingham boasts a rich and diverse music scene with venues catering to all tastes - rock, R&B, pop, jazz, you name it! Whether you're attending a concert at Utilita Arena, Resorts World Arena, Symphony Hall, O2 Academy, or O2 Institute, there's plenty to see and do nearby, including fabulous dining options and stand-out stays.

Keep the buzz of the concert going by extending your stay in the city! Here's a guide to help you make the most of your visit to Birmingham:

 

1. Near Utilita Arena

Activities: If you're looking for entertainment beyond the concert, head over to F1 Arcade for a thrilling simulated grand prix racing experience. The Legoland Discovery Centre is also just next door; The National Sealife Centre is across the canal; or you can visit The Roundhouse and explore Birmingham by kayak with one of their guided tours!

Dining: For a post-concert meal, head to nearby restaurant Siamais for vibrant Thai cuisine in a stunning setting.

Drinks: Wind down with a refreshing drink at The Distillery, a stylish gin bar offering a vast selection of spirits, cocktails, and draught beers.

Accommodation: Stay overnight at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham or Hilton Garden Inn Brindleyplace, both conveniently located near Utilita Arena, offering spacious rooms and excellent amenities.

 

2. Near Resorts World Arena

Activities: Resorts World is home to a plethora of activities to enjoy, so why not extend your visit and immerse yourself in everything from bowling, cinema, arcade games, and escape room adventures to indulging in retail therapy and treating yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience? If you’re looking for an amazing adrenaline-fuelled day, The Bear Grylls Adventure is on-site too!

Dining: Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Resorts World Birmingham's array of restaurants, including Sky Bar and Restaurant for an eclectic menu in a trendy restaurant high in the clouds, or Vietnamese Street Kitchen for something a little more low-key.

Drinks: Unwind with a cocktail at High Line, a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the city skyline.

Accommodation: Stay at the Genting Hotel, conveniently located adjacent to Resorts World Arena, offering luxurious accommodation with easy access to the resort's entertainment options. The Hilton Birmingham Metropole is another fantastic choice for convenient accommodation to relax in after a busy day.

 

3. Near Symphony Hall

Activities: Take a tour of some of Birmingham’s iconic landmarks before and after your Symphony Hall concert, including The Library of Birmingham, the City Centre Gardens, and the Black Sabbath Bridge. Why not spend some time enjoying contemporary art at Ikon Gallery, or dive into a slice of history at The Coffin Works?

Dining: Indulge in fine dining at Purnell's, owned by Michelin-starred chef Glynn Purnell, offering innovative British cuisine with a modern twist. If you fancy some spice, Indian cuisine awaits at Dishoom, or if you want a selection of mouth-watering meats it has to be Fazenda.

Drinks: Enjoy pre- or post-concert drinks at The Alchemist Brindleyplace, a stylish cocktail bar known for its creative concoctions and vibrant atmosphere.

Accommodation: Book a stay at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham or the Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre for a peaceful night's rest in the heart of the city.

 

 

4. Near O2 Academy

Activities: The iconic Mailbox is a stone’s throw from O2 Academy Birmingham, where you can enjoy a big-screen experience at Everyman Cinema, grab a pastry, or mooch along the canals. Bullring and Grand Central aren’t far either if you fancy some world-class high street and designer shopping. If you want to explore some history, Birmingham Back to Backs National Trust immerses visitors in the city’s fascinating Victorian era.

Dining: Grab a bite to eat at Original Patty Men, known for their mouthwatering burgers and inventive toppings.

Drinks: Quench your thirst with craft beers at The Craven Arms, a cosy pub with a relaxed atmosphere and a wide selection of ales.

Accommodation: Stay at Malmaison in the Mailbox for the ultimate luxury experience with easy access to the O2 Academy and other attractions in the area. 

 

5. Near O2 Institute

Activities: Discover Birmingham's rich cultural heritage by exploring nearby attractions such as the Custard Factory, a creative hub filled with independent shops, galleries, and cafes. While there, why not enjoy a game of crazy golf at Golf Fang or take a leisurely stroll to the Thinktank Science Museum?

Dining: Savour delicious street food at Hockley Social Club, a popular food market featuring a rotating selection of vendors serving up a variety of cuisines.

Drinks: Enjoy craft cocktails and live music at The Victoria, a historic pub known for its eclectic decor and vibrant atmosphere.

Accommodation: Book a room at the Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre or Clayton Hotel for an ultra-comfortable stay within walking distance of the O2 Institute and other downtown attractions.

 

So, wherever your concert is in Birmingham, there are countless things to see and do in the city.  If you’re looking for a great excuse to come and visit, be sure to browse the excellent array of upcoming concerts arriving in Birmingham this year.  See you soon!