Old Leeds Forest, Irondale — The Place That Chose Us

If you’d told me back in 2020 that I’d end up living in Irondale, you would’ve gotten the face — you know, that “No way!” face. And if you know us Cubans, you know we don’t just say it — we show it, with the eyebrows, the hands, the whole body language show.

Like so many of us, COVID pushed us into uncharted territory. Big life decisions suddenly came into sharp focus, and my husband and I knew we needed a home — and fast. We looked at well-established neighborhoods, toured beautiful homes… but then there was this one house — nothing fancy, but it had a promising garden and a little pool in the backyard, perfect for the baby on the way. Tucked into a quiet, tree-lined street, it was green and peaceful, just 20 minutes from UAB (ideal for my scientist husband’s commute) and at a price that made sense.

My mom instinct — the same one that’s guided me since JA made us a tribe of three — said: “This feels right for our family.” We said yes. Turns out, it was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.

Living here actually inspired me to get my real estate license — so I could champion homeownership and community, helping other families find not just a house, but a place that feels like their Old Leeds Forest.

Fast-Forward Five Years

Today, my little corner of Irondale has transformed in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I still get my quiet mornings in the garden, coffee in hand, songbirds as my soundtrack —  and the kind of peace you can’t buy. But around me, the city is buzzing with progress:

My Favorite local & Must-Try Places

🪑 Irondale Pickers 

Treasure-hunting heaven for antiques, vintage furniture, and one-of-a-kind finds.

🍞 Sunshine Baking Company 

Fresh breads, pastries, and the friendliest service in town.

💇‍♀️ Vida Hair Color by Gabo 

Gabo gave JA his very first haircut — and she’s a true kid whisperer, making little ones actually enjoy being in her chair. A must for great hair and conversation

🍖 Golden Rule Bar-B-Q 

An Irondale legend — serving BBQ since 1891 and Guinness record holder for sandwich sales.

⚾ Ruffner Ball Park

Completely renovated — bringing the joy of the game with kids’ swings, home runs, laughter, and parents cheering from the stands.

🐶 Tails by the Rails at Ellard Park

A brand new community-favorite fenced dog park right by the train tracks, perfect for pups and owners to socialize.

📚 New Irondale Public Library (Opening Fall 2025)

A future community hub for reading, learning, and neighborhood events.

🏛 Irondale Civic Center (Under Construction, expected Opening late 2026)

Soon to be the place for gatherings, celebrations, and civic activities.

🚣‍♀️ Cahaba River Trail & Moon River Canoe Launch

Scenic trails along the Cahaba River plus a peaceful launch for kayaking and canoeing — a local favorite for water lovers.

🌳Hiking on Ruffner Mountain Irondale Trailhead

Miles of scenic paths starting right here in Irondale — with city views, forest shade, and plenty of fresh air, just minutes from home.

🏪 Publix at Grants Mill Station

Everyone is smiling at you and eager to help — my go-to grocery stop, just minutes away.

🛒 Costco (Coming Soon!)

Not open yet, but a major sign of Irondale’s growth — and yes, it’s about to become my neighbor!

🐝 Foxhound Bee Company (Coming Soon!) – Alabama’s first bee retail + education center

A sweet addition to Irondale, where you can shop bee products and learn about pollinator care.

How Old Leeds Forest Feels.

Old Leeds Forest has its own unique blend — right next to Mountain Brook, but with a personality all its own. On one street, you might pass a small charming garden cottage with a yard, and just a few doors down, a sleek luxury villa — all shaded by big, old trees and neighbors who don’t just wave, they hi say (you know, that quick “Hi! How are ya?” as you keep walking).

Here, biking, hi saying, and walking aren’t just weekend hobbies — they’re the daily workout plan you didn’t know you signed up for, the perfect way to stay fit and stay connected with nature and your neighbors.

Why I Love Living Here

Irondale knows how to bring people together — from outdoor movie nights to the I Love Irondale festival, from Block Party gatherings to the Community Civic Engagement Academy, which I was thrilled to be part of. The senior center is making a big comeback, and property values? They’ve climbed in a way that makes every homeowner smile.

And now, with Costco officially becoming a neighbor, it feels like a sign: the best is still to come.

It’s worth going beyond your preconceptions. Take the time to drive through, walk around, stop and chat with the locals, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll feel the same spark I did back in 2020 when I knew this was the right place for our family.