The new Ruffner Mountain Nature Center is open and it's beautiful.  This is a wonderful place to hike and enjoy a picnic near the city.  It also provides a glimpse into Birmingham's history and knowledge of native plants and animals.  We enjoyed a wonderful field trip for 6 yr olds and a great 1/2 mile geological hike.  They have many events that are included on the BirminghamMom.com calendar.

Read Birmingham Mom's Tips Before Your Next Trip to Alabama Adventure

Renowned throughout the country, this three-story, 30,000sf structure features over 4,000 pieces of sports memorabilia and interactive audio-visual screens. 

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens are one of the more exceptional locations in the area.  It is free of charge and a great place to get outside with the kids and a stroller.  They host many educational events and summer camps.  Birmingham Moms also enjoy the annual plant sale.   And, this is a favorite spot for photographing children.   

Birmingham Children's Theatre is a treat for all kids and parents in Birmingham.  Theatre performances occur year round and can be found on the BirminghamMom.com Calendar. BCT host Spring Break Camps, Summer Workshops and Birthday Parties. 
"When I picked up my daughter on the first day of Summer Academy, she said — I've got one word mom — AWESOME!"    

See this related post from BirminghamMom.com. 

For camp information email . For party planning information contact .
From a local mom:  "Birthday party at the zoo for a 5 yr old and everyone had a great time.   Refreshments were provided and served.  The kids got to touch some animals, ride the train and the carousel. No clean up so I go to enjoy the party with everyone else."

At DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park, there's always something fun for everyone.  With over 25 attractions including our three-quarter acre Lost Trail Maze, Panning for Gemstones, and the always popular Wacky Water Golf, we're sure you'll have a great time at Alabama's Big Cave and More, DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park. Our attractions are open year round with the exception of the water attractions. The water attractions close at the end of October and reopen in April.

As Alabama's largest park, Oak Mountain provides 9,940 acres of pine-studded ridges and lush green hardwood bottoms. The park offers vacation cottages, golf, pro shop with snack bar, improved camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, mountain bike trails, backpacking, a demonstration farm and horseback riding facilities.

Sloss Furnaces is a 32-acre blast furnace plant where iron was made for nearly 100 years.

Park opens Memorial Day weekendOpen 7 days per week, 10 until 6Day passes are $15 for children and $20 for adults

Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park has more than 1,500 acres in three counties set aside for hiking, camping and outdoor recreation.

Vulcan Park is home to the world's largest cast iron statue and features exceptional views of the City of Birmingham. The Vulcan Park museum tells the story of Birmingham.  It's a great, central location to enjoy a picnic or a good stop for visitors.