Summer is just around the corner and there is plenty to do in the Birmingham Area to keep the kids and adults busy. Perhaps a lack of time off or finances won’t allow for a beach or mountain get away or maybe you just don’t want to travel. A vacation in your own backyard can prove to be a great break. Just put a little time into planning it and spin it by labeling it staycation and your little ones will be having fun in no time. Take the time to do something you don’t do on a normal weekend. Consider letting each family member make a suggestion or two and then try to pick an idea from each individual. No matter what plans your family decides on just make it special and spend time together doing things you wouldn't normally do and summer will be fun and full of memories.
The Alabama Tourism Department website is loaded with ideas for day outings along with year-round information on special events across the state. There is something for everyone whether you are looking for experiences outdoors or want to stay inside. From art and culture to nature and food there is plenty to do within just a short drive from Birmingham. One can easily make a day trip to Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville or visit Desoto Caverns in Childersburg but if even that is too far for you to travel there is entertainment galore right here in The Magic City.
Movies, Mini Golf, Bowling and More
Pile up the family and take in a movie. The Coyote Drive in - Alabama located in Leeds is open 7 days a week rain or shine. The gates open at 6 pm Monday – Thursday and 5:30 pm Friday – Sunday. The drive-in features family-friendly movies and you can really feel like you are on vacation when you try out your swing at the newly opened miniature golf course. Go the traditional route and save a few dollars when you visit any local Carmike Cinema on Tuesday with $5 admission and concession specials all day long. Vestavia Bowl has extended hours and will be running food and bowling specials all summer. Trampoline parks are popping up all over Birmingham and are a huge hit with kids. Be sure to reserve a jump time in advance during this busy season. If you have older children or teens consider one of Birmingham's new Escape Rooms. Get locked in and see if you can break out within an hour.
Music
Enjoy Sound Sessions at The Grill at Iron City any Friday night from 5:30 -7:30. The Grill at Iron City features local musicians along with local beverages and creative dishes.
Outdoor Fun
The Birmingham Zoo and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are great for full or half-day outings. Take a nature hike at Ruffner Mountain located in Irondale or visit Oak Mountain State Park for a day trip or overnight camp out. Grab a picnic lunch, a blanket, and frisbee and enjoy the great outdoors in the middle of downtown at Linn Park or travel up a few blocks and relax in Railroad Park.
Museums
Vulcan Park and McWane Science Center are popular outings for the family. Have you ever done a family scavenger hunt at the Birmingham Museum of Art? Admission is free and the children’s area is hands on. How about adding a little local history to the week? Learn about local Sports greats at the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame or visit the Civil Rights Museum. Have a picnic in the park across the street and sit on the steps of 16th Street Baptist Church. The local possibilities are endless. Enjoy your summer and take the time to explore all that Birmingham has to offer.
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