Housed within the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, the Birmingham Children's Theatre stages entertaining theatrical shows for children. Under its repertoire, the Birmingham Children's Theatre manages three theaters, namely the Dominick Studio Theater, the Wee Folks Theater and the Mainstage Theater. Previously, Birmingham Children's Theatre has put on classic shows such as Pinnochio, Dr. Seuss, The Little Red Hen and Jack & The Beanstalk.
A hands-on science museum, the McWane Science Center allows visitors to test physics principles, explore aquatic habitats, simulate space exploration and more. Interactive exhibits allow you to make your own animated movie, build a roller coaster or ride a bicycle along a wire 30 feet above the ground! There is also the IMAX Theater, a gift shop, and a food court that offers a variety of fast food and snack options. See website for event calendar, movie showtime, admission details and more.
Birmingham's Railroad Park is a 19 acre (7.68 hectare) park that was created in 2010. The park has water features, trails, and lots of grassy areas for playing and picnicking. The park often plays hosts to special events and concerts throughout the year. A welcome slice of green amid the steely concrete of the city, this park is also a serene place for leisurely walks and jogging. Couples who frequent the park often cap off their walks with a nice snack at the Boxcar Cafe located within the park premises.
Regions Field is a state-of-the-art ballpark built in 2013 as the home of the Birmingham Barons AA Minor League team. The stadium features 8500 seats and is conveniently located right in Downtown Birmingham. The ballpark has a host of activities and special features, including a mini-wiffle ball diamond, a batting cage and family fun park. Of course, no baseball game is complete without a hot dog and a beer (or soda), and you can get that, along with all the other classic ballpark snacks at Regions Field, too.
Jones Valley Teaching Farm, located in the Gardens of Park Place, is an urban farm growing healthy, natural fruits, vegetables and herbs, not just to eat, but for education. The Jones Valley Teaching Farm is of the philosophy that kids learn best by doing, and at the farm, kids get down and dirty growing and caring for the produce. As a byproduct of this, they also learn more about healthy eating and they even host cooking classes and programs to teach about how to use the fruits of their labor in the most delicious ways.
Homewood Toy & Hobby has been keeping the kids (and parents!) of Birmingham busy and entertained since 1950, when it first opened. They carry the biggest selection of remote control operated toys in the entire city. But of course, there is more than just that, with a huge selection of all kinds of toys, puzzles, models and other hobbies. If you're looking for an escape from the big box toy stores taking over, head to the delightfully old fashioned Homewood Toy & Hobby.
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.
Red Mountain Park consists of 1500 acres (607.02 hectares) full of outdoor fun and excitement. In addition to the 11 hiking trails in the park, there are also zip-lining facilities, historic mines, three tree houses and the Hugh Kaul Beanstalk Forest and Kaul Adventure Tower. The park is one of Birmingham's favorite destinations for outdoor adventure.
One of the largest consignment stores in town, Kid's Market and Mom offers patrons a chance to shop for pre-used children’s clothing and accessories. The expansive store is home to children’s furniture, games, toys and even maternity clothing for expectant mothers. Not only are the goods on offer priced reasonably, but their quality and condition is also top notch. If you want to shop for your little one without breaking the bank, then Kid's Market and Mom is your best bet.
This outstanding nature center situated on the site of an iron ore mine was closed in the 1950s and reopened as a nature refuge in the 1970s. Visitors to this mid-city refuge can explore the former quarries and ore crushers, hike 10 miles of trails, watch hawks soar, study rock formations and enjoy the wildflowers and wildlife.
Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, located amidst lush greenery, is just a few miles away from the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The plush guest rooms at this resort include balconies overlooking stunning grounds and a signature pool featuring enchanting waterfalls and fountains. With restaurants, bars, a relaxing spa, a well furnished fitness center and childcare facilities lined up for your service, the hotel staff leaves no room for complaints. Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa is also a perfect event venue for both private as well as corporate events and the right business center for important deals and sessions. You can also stimulate your senses at the lavish 12,000-square-foot European spa located inside this resort.
Veteran's Park is 82 acres of outdoor fun in Hoover. The park features a whole array of facilities for your convenience, fitness and entertainment. Take advantage of the namesake Veteran's Memorial, the four acre lake, two pavilions, cross country trail, beach volleyball courts and the Butterfly Garden. There are restrooms available in the park, as well as parking.