See more than 1000 different animal species from around the globe, from the Siberian tiger to the San Esteban Island chuckwalla. Of course, there are lions, tigers and bears, as well as giraffes, geckos, a white rhinoceros and gorillas. If your feet get tired, hop aboard the Zoo Express Train. ZooSnoozes, their overnight camping program, is available by reservation. Also, check out the zoo's many classes, which are fit for visitors of all ages.
Located in Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama Wildlife Center is a great place to visit for birders. This rehabilitation facility is home to hundreds of native and migratory birds. Opened in the year 1977, this facility was established by Anne Miller who was Birmingham Zoo’s former zookeeper. This centre also features a nursery, a garden and various exhibits of birds. They often host programs that help educate visitors about wildlife conservation and preservation. Visitors can also walk along the nearby Treetop Nature Trail and revel in the scenic surroundings.
Located in the historic Carver Theatre in the Civil Rights District, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame started in 1978 as a tribute to the truly American music form. Many beloved jazz musicians got their start in Alabama, and a surprising number of these came from Birmingham. In the early 20th Century, Birmingham was a training ground for these famed musicians. See exhibits devoted to such greats as Lionel Hampton, Erskine Hawkins, Nat King Cole and Sun Ra. You can choose to tour all by yourself, or take a guided tour.
Located in the suburb of Bessemer, Alabama Splash Adventure offers family-oriented entertainment in a festive setting. As with many theme parks, it's a virtually self-contained community, complete with restaurants, snack bars, live entertainment, thrill rides and a complete water park. Ride the Rio Grande Train, take the plunge on UpSurge! in Splash Beach, and don't miss the Coke Corner on Celebration Street. Check website for more details as this park has seasonal timings.
At a time when racial prejudice was at an all-time high, Alabama Penny Savings Bank offered African-Americans something almost unheard of: their own bank. Founded by William Reuben Pettiford in 1890, the Alabama Penny Savings Bank was the first black-owned bank in the state. Even more, they were the second largest black bank in the country, offering African-Americans the money they needed to finance homes, businesses, and churches. Before Alabama Penny Saving Bank closed in 1915, at one time, they conducted business as high as a half million dollars. Worth a visit to see an important piece of black history.