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.

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.

Birmingham's warm climate ensures that something is always blooming at the Botanical Gardens. Enjoy spring azaleas, summer roses, fall leaves and winter camellias as you tour the extensive grounds. Or, step inside the Southeast's largest clear-span glass greenhouse to enjoy orchids and other tropicals. Visit the Japanese Tea House and Garden and the Southern Living Garden, plus vegetable, fern, iris and other special gardens. Other attractions include the Gatehouse Gift Shop, a café and a library. Lectures, demonstrations, concerts and other events occur almost daily; inquire for a schedule. Admission is free. All paths are wheelchair and stroller-accessible.