Kelly Ingram Park is a treasure trove of sculptures occupying the heart of Birmingham. Formerly known as the West Park, the park served as the platform for the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. It is home to several sculptures that thoughtfully commemorate those who fought for racial equality. The bronze statue of Dr. Martin Luther King, the 'Four Spirits' sculptures, and the 'I Ain't Afraid Of Your Jail are three of the park's standout sights. Thriving under the aegis of the 16th Street Baptist Church, this park is a beautiful amalgamation of history and culture.
Turkey Creek Nature Preserve is a tranquil space that sprawls across 466 acres (188.58 hectares) in Pinson, near Birmingham. Blessed with nature's ethereal beauty, the preserve is truly a spectacular oasis dotted with little natural wonders. With its history dating back to the time when it was home to a Native American settlement, the area has witness the development of the region over the years, while being a tranquil refuge in itself. Visit the park with your family to explore its network of trails, admire the surreal green scenery of its landscape, observe the vibrant wildlife, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or try your hand at fishing.
The Thomas Bass Museum is a popular museum in Leeds that showcases the local history. It is housed inside the old Bass House and is operated by the Leeds Historical Society. The exhibits include dated furniture and accessories and artifacts that provide interesting information about local celebrities and noted citizens like Harry Walker, Leroy Miller Junior and Charles Barkley.
Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens, the city's only antebellum mansion, offers tours featuring its collection of 19th-century furniture and decorative arts. The building is a grand example of the Greek Revival architecture that was prominent in the 1840s. A tearoom is available, and the gardens are a beautiful site and backdrop for weddings and other special events. Call ahead for admission details.
Cradled in Downtown Birmingham, the Civil Right District is the center point of the state's long-standing history. The very site where several important events of the Civil Rights Movement were birthed, this historic district sprawls across six blocks. The district has witnessed many of the most significant happenstances of the Birmingham arm of the movement, including the fateful bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church. Kelly Ingram Park, which is also a part of the district, was the location of many demonstrations during the Civil Rights Movement. Numerous sculptures in the park commemorate the historical protests. Some of the most important sites in the district include the statue of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Carver Theater, which has now been transformed into a live music venue, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Harboring several historical sites, the Civil Rights District reads out America's most significant chapter out loud.
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.