Family-friendly ways to spring break in Birmingham like a local

Sponsored

It’s that time of year where friends, classmates and coworkers may be hitting the road or the skies for far-flung destinations to find the best food, fun and adventure imaginable.

But what if they could find all of those world-class components just a short drive down I-65 in Birmingham? There’s never been a better time to dive into the exciting activities, restaurants and all-around good vibes that are propelling the city forward.

If your family is ready for an easily-accessible change of scenery courtesy of the Magic City, we’ve got spring break ideas that won’t break your financial or time budget.

Here’s how your family can enjoy a sweet escape not too far from home.

Pair your Birmingham breakfast with a park visit

_{The daily rotation of donut flavors at Hero Donuts in Birmingham (Pat Byington / HvilleBlast) // Birmingham Breadworks Mural (Terri Robertson / Hville Blast)}

Buckle the kids in and hit the road early. In less than two hours, you’ve arrived in Birmingham so the magic can begin. Fuel for fun at local favorites like:

• 🍩 Hero Diner: This local favorite began as a small shop in the suburb of Homewood and now has outposts doting the greater metro area. You’ll find fascinating flavor combos of thick, gooey donuts and pastries, as well as breakfast sandwiches (+ a burger that doesn’t miss).
  • We recommend the Railroad Park location so the kiddos have an adjacent opportunity to burn off some of that sugar just across the street.
  • Website | Facebook | Instagram
• 🥐 Birmingham Breadworks: This beloved local bakery that cranks out fresh loaves and flaky pastries that impress (make sure to grab some “souvenirs” to take home to Huntsville!). They focus on nature-made ingredients with no artificial colors or preservatives.
  • Perfectly positioned near downtown, you’re also in a great area for a run around Railroad Park or City Walk BHAM after your stop.
  • Website | Facebook | Instagram

Now about Railroad Park…dubbed the city’s backyard, you’ll find an 8-block oasis that offers sweeping views of downtown, rolling hills, babbling brooks and native plants that sway in the breeze. Take a lap post-breakfast before you head to your next great Birmingham stop to explore and spot the first signs of spring making their debut.

Activities that wake up their brains—and wear out their wiggles

Birmingham has no shortage of opportunities for families to explore together. Here are a few family-friendly favorites that locals love:

• 🧪 McWane Science Center: Kids can learn by doing. From science experiments to tactile experiences and an IMAX theatre, this is a great option in the heart of Downtown Birmingham.
  • Don’t miss: Dinosaur lovers need to check out the 40-foot long prehistoric whale currently occupying the lobby at McWane.
  • Location: 200 19th St N in Birmingham
  • Hours:
    • Closed Mon-Tues
    • Wed-Fri: 9AM-5PM
    • Sat: 10AM-5PM
    • Sun: Noon-5PM
  • Cost: $20.95 adults; $16.95 kids
  • More info: Website | Facebook | Instagram
• 🦩 The Birmingham Zoo: While north Alabama waits for its own zoo, there’s a world-class option right in a lovely part of Birmingham. Just off of 280 in the tree-lined Mountain Brook neighborhood, you’ll find a sprawling home to pinky-peach flamingos (great photo opp!), a red panda, an ocelot, elephants and so much more.
  • Don’t miss: For guests with sensory needs, the Zoo has got you covered. Check out the recently opened Sensory Room so everyone can be included.
  • Location: 2630 Cahaba Road (about 10 minutes from downtown in Mountain Brook)
  • Hours:
    • Closed Mon-Tues
    • Wed-Sun 9AM-5PM (last entry at 4:30PM)
  • Cost: $19.95 adults; $15.95 kids 2-12; free for infants under the age of 2
  • More info: Website | Facebook | Instagram
• 🥾 Moss Rock Preserve: This 349-acre natural wonderland is located in Hoover, about a 20-minute drive from downtown. Families can hike along 12 miles of trails, look for rare native plants and scramble its boulders for a higher vantage point.
  • Don’t miss: Keep an eye out for waterfalls if you’re visiting after recent rains.
  • Location: 617 Preserve Way in Hoover, off of 459
  • Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
  • Cost: FREE
  • More info: Website
• ⭐️ The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute + 16th Street Baptist Church: For a more solemn—but important—learning opportunity, the whole family can learn a key part of Birmingham (and Alabama’s history) at these sites.
  • Don’t miss: Before or after your visit, incorporate a walking tour through significant spots around the city that played a role in the movement in town—and it’s free. Find out more about the Civil Rights Trail here.
  • Location: 520 16th St N in downtown Birmingham
  • Hours: Tues-Sat 10AM-5PM
  • Cost: $15 adults; $13 ages 4th grade-college students with ID; grades 3 and under are free
  • More info: Website | Facebook | Instagram

Resources to help plan your spring break in Birmingham

Ready to bring some magic to your family’s next trip out of town? This is just a little of what’s shaking in the Magic City. Find more resources InBirmingham and at our sister site, BhamNow.com.

• Here’s where to stay
• More great food ideas
• Upcoming events to add to your calendar
• Planning tools + resources

What’s your must-do, see or sip in Birmingham when you visit? Let us know @hvilleblast!

Sponsored by: