Fun Things to do in Birmingham

he summers are long, hot, and can be very muggy. Winters tend to be short, cold and wet. Temperatures vary during the year from 2°C to 32°C. the best time to visit Birmingham, Alabama for warm weather and outdoor activities tends to be around April to early June and then again in late August and mid-October. 

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is the city’s main airport and is located only 5 miles from Downtown Birmingham and offers direct connections to the main cities across the US. 

It’s easy to get around Birmingham, Alabama with kids. The main public transport system consists of buses. The best way to enjoy Birmingham, Alabama with kids and enjoy the natural attractions is by hiring a car. Birmingham, Alabama is also a cheap city to visit with kids. 

Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama and began as an industrial centre. Due to its rapid growth during the Industrial Revolution years, it was given the nickname “The Magic City”. Today, Birmingham is a thriving tourist spot for families with kids. Perfect for spending time outdoors, walking, enjoying art and culture, and shopping. 

If you’re looking for an action-packed vacation, then be sure to visit Birmingham, Alabama. This city has everything to offer families with children of all ages. 

The main city attractions are Birmingham Museum of Art, Civil Rights Institute, and Vulcan Park Museum. Birmingham has lots of wonderful parks, Botanical Gardens, and zoos. 

Downtown is one of the best places to stay with kids. Downtown offers the biggest selection of hotels, places to shop and eat as well as lots of museums, galleries, and national parks. Downtown is conveniently located which makes travelling with the little ones much easier as you have plenty of public transport to choose from as well as being close by the local airport. 

Listed below is a guide to the best neighbourhoods to stay in Birmingham, Alabama with kids:

Downtown Birmingham

The city centre is a mix of breweries, cafes, restaurants, galleries, and historic buildings. Downtown is a dynamic area to stay in that caters to families with children of all ages. Perfect for walking, and learning about the local culture and art.

There is plenty of entertainment for the little ones and the option of the best nightlife for the adults. 

Five Points South 

Five Points South is an energetic place to stay with fine dining, plenty of BBQ restaurants, major baseball teams, Redtop mountain, and a huge cast-iron statue of the Roman god that overlooks the city. Five Points South is a great place to stay with children albeit being on the more expensive side. If you’re looking for somewhere luxurious to stay then Five Points South is the place to stay.  

Highland Park 

Named one of the great places to stay in 2011 by the American Planning Association. Highland Park has a lot to offer. Beautiful countryside, lots of historic attractions and a diverse community make Highland Park a great place to stay with kids. 

Forest Park

Forest Park is a perfect hybrid of suburban and urban. Great access point to Downtown Birmingham and the local airport, Forest Park is a great destination point to stay if you wish to drive to lots of local attractions and further afield. 

There are lots of great places to stay in Birmingham, Alabama with kids. Depending on your budget, the time of year you wish to travel, and what attractions you want to see will dictate what hotel you want to stay in. Listed below are some of our top picks for places to stay with kids. 

Hilton Garden Inn Montgomery – EastChase

The Hilton Garden is one of the cosiest places to stay with kids. Families have a wide choice of places to eat such as the Garden Grille and Bar. Onsite is a saltwater pool which children love. Family-friendly rooms and ideal location make this hotel the perfect choice for families with children. 

The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel

The Lodge at Gulf State Park is one of the best family resorts in Alabama. With its eco-friendly resort and 6,150-acre state park families can do plenty of exploring, hiking, freshwater fishing, and enjoy the Gulf State Pier. Family-friendly rooms and restaurants on-site make this hotel the perfect place to stay with kids. 

DoubleTree Birmingham Perimeter Park

The Doubletree is a great place for families that wish to explore the historic city of Birmingham. Conveniently located and easy stop by to stay for families with children of ages. Onsite swimming pool, restaurants, and free Wi-Fi, the Doubletree is a great choice for families of children of all ages. 

The Admiral Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

This hotel is a great choice for families on the go. The Art deco style hotel is one of the finer hotels to stay in and perfect for families that enjoy a taste of luxury. If you wish to explore the city with the little ones then this is the perfect place to stay. 

Crystal Shores West 202

This hotel is one of the best waterpark hotels in Alabama and is only 1.5 miles away from Waterville. Great for families that love a holiday including water parks. The hotel has its very own outdoor pool, hot tub, and waterpark nearby. Great place for kids of all ages (and adults too) 

One of the most exciting parts of going on holiday with the little ones is trying the local food. Indulging and experimenting are what make your holiday worthwhile. Everywhere has its traditions on certain dishes, with Alabama being no exception. Birmingham, Alabama is famous for its version of a “cooked breakfast” as well as many other delicious delights. 

Listed below are our recommendations on foods you must try in Birmingham, Alabama

Bacon and eggs

Bacon is served well cooked in Alabama rather than soft. The eggs are perfectly fried and served on top. Whilst this dish is so simple, there is something so delicious about the way is cooked in Alabama. Be sure to try their version of bacon and eggs to set you up for the day, especially if you have a day of exploring with the little ones 

Grits

Everyone loves a bowl of freshly cooked porridge and Alabama sure knows how to get it to the right consistency. Made with coarsely ground cornmeal with lots of added butter, salt, and cheese (on request) This is a sure winner for children. 

Biscuit and gravy 

The biscuit is not what you would expect. More of a savoury scone with the texture of cake and bread. The biscuit is served with homemade gravy, made with meat and lots of seasoning. This local delicacy is popular with the locals and tourists. Great afternoon snack if you’ve had an active day outdoors. 

Green fried tomatoes 

Often served as a side dish on its own. Green tomatoes dipped in butter and batter and then deep-fried. Can be eaten at any time of the day and is a popular choice for the little ones.