Top Family Vacation Spots in Birmingham, United States

1. Birmingham Zoo

Home to over 900 exotic and native animals, with a focus on conservation and education.

Wild Africa Exhibit: Experience African wildlife in a vast, immersive habitat
Children's Zoo: Interactive exhibits designed for young visitors
Stingray Bay: Get up close and personal with stingrays in this hands-on exhibit

An interactive science museum featuring exhibits on natural history, space exploration, and more.

House over 1600 motorcycles and automobiles, including rare and historic models.

George Barber Collection: See the personal collection of late racer George Barber
Barber Motorsports Park: Adjacent race track hosts annual racing events
IndyCar Racing Experience: Take a thrilling ride in an IndyCar on the race track

A tribute to Birmingham's industrial heritage, featuring a massive Vulcan statue.

Red Mountain Overlook: Take in breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck
Vulcan Museum: Learn about Birmingham's history through interactive exhibits
Iron and Slag Melt: Experience a reenactment of iron pouring, demonstrating Birmingham's steel legacy

A world-class art museum with an extensive collection spanning centuries and cultures.

European Collection: View masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt, Monet, and Gauguin
American Art Gallery: Discover works by notable American artists, including Georgia O'Keeffe and Thomas Moran
Asian Art Collection: Explore the rich cultures of Asia through art and artifacts

A vibrant urban park featuring walking paths, fountains, and a variety of events.

Great Lawn: Host outdoor concerts, movie screenings, and family-friendly events
Walking Trails: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the park's scenic walking paths
Kids Corner Playground: A fun play area for children to explore and enjoy

An annual showcase of Southern home design trends and innovative architectural ideas.

Tour the House: Step inside a beautifully designed, modern Southern home
Garden Tours: Admire the landscaping and outdoor living spaces surrounding the house
Design Workshops: Learn tips from Southern Living designers on creating your dream home

15 beautiful gardens showcasing plants and landscapes from around the world.

Rose Garden: More than 3,000 rose bushes bloom throughout the year
Japanese Garden: Experience a tranquil oasis modeled after traditional Japanese gardens
Conservatory: Explore exotic plants and tropical environments inside the glasshouse

A museum dedicated to exploring the American civil rights movement, with a focus on Birmingham's role.

Permanent Exhibits: Learn about key events and figures in the civil rights movement
Special Exhibits: Explore rotating exhibits that delve deeper into specific topics
Freedom Wall: A powerful tribute to civil rights leaders and victims, with over 800 names inscribed

Discover the natural wonders of Alabama and beyond at this museum dedicated to geology, paleontology, and zoology.

Permanent Exhibits: View dinosaur fossils, minerals, and a vast collection of Alabama wildlife
Planetarium Shows: Explore the universe through immersive, educational shows in their digital dome theater
Fossil Prep Lab: Observe paleontologists as they clean and prepare dinosaur fossils

An industrial site that once produced iron during the Industrial Revolution.

Guided Tours: Learn about the site's history and its impact on Birmingham's growth
Art Programs: Explore creative exhibits and installations throughout the historic site
Special Events: Attend concerts, workshops, and other events hosted at Sloss Furnaces

A family-friendly amusement park featuring roller coasters, water rides, and kids' attractions.

Thrill Rides: Experience adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and drop tower rides
Kiddie Land: Fun attractions for younger children, like carousels and kiddie rides
Water Park: Cool off in the water park during hot summer days

A museum celebrating Alabama's sports legends and rich athletic history.

Permanent Exhibits: Explore the achievements of Alabama's greatest athletes
Interactive Games: Test your skills in virtual sports simulations
Special Events: Attend lectures, meet-and-greets with athletes, and other special events

A professional theater company dedicated to producing shows for young audiences.

Children's Productions: Watch beloved children's stories come to life on stage
Workshops and Camps: Participate in acting classes, workshops, and summer camps
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy a comfortable, welcoming environment for families

A 105-acre nature preserve offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and environmental education.

Hiking Trails: Explore various trails suitable for all skill levels
Nature Programs: Join guided nature walks and learn about the preserve's ecosystems
Educational Center: Discover interactive exhibits on local wildlife, geology, and conservation efforts