Is it your day off and you want to spend a fun time with your kids in Alabama? Then, you are super lucky, because Alabama has tons of kids and family-friendly things to do.

Whether you’re in the mood for a tranquil park or excited to explore famous attractions like a beach and zoo, Alabama has it all. Plus, you can opt for other exciting options such as visiting the space center or taking a bus tour.

But, before that, what do today’s kids generally like? Well, I don’t have a concrete answer, but I have a basic idea thanks to my beloved son. Kids often adore unique and fun experiences such as engaging activities, interacting with animals, adventurous outings, games, and more.

Now, as a father myself, I often take my kids to some of the best kid-friendly places in Alabama, where my kids engage in a lot of fun activities and things to do. And the result is always heartwarming -Their smiling faces just made my day.

Table of content

• Roam in the Orr Park
• Visit an amusement park
• Explore kid’s museums
• Stare Animals in a Zoo
• Board a Dolphin Cruise
• Relax in a Trampoline Park
• Visit the Space Center
• Spend a day in Desoto Family Park
• Take a Birmingham Bus tour
• Bring your kids to a Beach

1. Roam in the Orr park ⛲

I want to start with a very unique and fun park, which goes by the name – Orr Park. Now What sets this park apart and why is it at the top of my list?

First and foremost, Orr Park is a park, and every kid loves a park! Here, children can run and play freely with their family or other kids. Parks also offer a variety of fun activities, especially for kids, such as scavenger hunts, swings, and rides.

The standout feature of Orr Park is its collection of whimsical and amusing cedar trees. Each tree is adorned with carvings of quirky, strange, or unique faces that children find both delightfully fun and perhaps a bit eerie.

Do you know -These charming faces are the work of a single artist, Tim Tingle.

In addition to admiring the tree carvings, your kids can also enjoy activities like flying kites or exploring the art exhibit at Tanglewood.

The optimal times to visit Orr Park are in the afternoon or evening, ensuring the temperature is not too hot or uncomfortable for kids. But, October is particularly more appealing due to the Halloween festival and competition.

Remember to pack essentials such as water, snacks, toys, and any other items that your kids like the most and might come in handy during your visit.

However, I’m not saying that you have to explore only this Orr park. You can also visit any nearby, fun park that offers something unique for kids. After all, every park is a fantastic place to be if you and your kids are having fun.

2. Visit an amusement park 🎢

Amusement parks are always a great option, as I’m sure your kids would love them! The rides, delicious food, vibrant colors – everything about amusement parks is fascinating to kids today, and yours will likely be no exception.

They offer a variety of rides, from ones specifically for kids that are super safe to those where parents and kids can ride together simultaneously.

For a recommendation, I suggest checking out Alabama Splash Adventure Park. It’s regarded as one of the best amusement parks in Alabama, offering almost 30+ thrilling rides, including 2 roller coasters, for you and your family to enjoy.

The park is a blend of simple and water rides as it has 8 different water rides along with general rides. Plus interactive water play structure, a water obstacle course, body slides, tube slides, and a wave pool.

If you’re looking for watery rides and swimming, Alabama Splash Adventure Park is a great option. The ticket price is $39.99, which might be a concern, but children under 2 get in for free. Additionally, they have some fantastic food stalls and restaurants where you can enjoy mouthwatering dishes.

As I mentioned earlier, you have the option to choose an alternative to this amusement park. Visiting a nearby amusement park could be a good choice, saving you time, money, and effort.

3. Explore kid’s museums 🏛️

Next, consider taking your kids to a kid-friendly museum. These are museums with themes and activities specifically designed for children, such as recreation museums, craft museums, and more.

Here are two museums that are perfect for a day out with your kids, places you’ll enjoy just as much. First up is the Children’s Museum of the Shoals.

If you think your kid has a high imagination power and is considered a creative kid, then this place might be a great opportunity to showcase and hone his/her skills.

So, what exactly does this museum offer? it’s a treasure trove of hands-on activities and exhibits designed to ignite children’s imaginations, encourage learning, and spark creativity.

Your kids will learn various topics like archaeology, art, science, history, music, technology and so much more in a very friendly and engaging environment.

Next on the list is the Children’s Hands-On Museum. This museum offers a unique experience where kids can learn through play, and we all know how much kids love to play!

It offers a similar experience to the previous museum, with the added bonus of interactive video lessons that make learning fun for kids.

Here you’ll discover 25 hands-on exhibits spread across three floors, covering themes like science, nature, art, history, and more. These sectors are essential for children’s development. Furthermore, the museum is designed to be fun and engaging, ensuring every kid finds it amusing.

If your kids love art and drawing, then let him/her explore and try the art workshop and kaleidoscopes.

In short, If your child is up to 13 years old, you should definitely take them to this wonderful museum. Additionally, the museum organizes winter and summer camps, birthday parties, and much more.

4. Stare Animals in a Zoo🦁

If you don’t have a particular place or activity in your mind, then you can visit some world-famous or a nearby zoo to have a quality and fun time with your kids.

Plus, kids adore animals of every kind, and being a zoo, it also provides a safe environment for your kids to explore various types of animals, enjoy snacks, and roam serene parks with their parents.

If you’re undecided on which zoo to visit, let’s explore two of the most renowned zoos in Alabama: the Birmingham Zoo and the Montgomery Zoo. Each has its own unique charm and attractions, so let’s delve into what makes them special.

First up, let’s explore the Birmingham Zoo, renowned as the largest and most famous zoo in Alabama. Here, you and your child can marvel at over 200 different species of animals including jaguars, hippopotamuses, bears, red pandas, giraffes, elephants, sea lions, and more.

Here, you’ll also find a range of exciting rides for a fun-filled day. Your kids can even have the opportunity to feed some of the animals, although it’s only the safe and friendly ones. Afterward, you can enjoy some snacks and cuisine at their cafes, which are quite decent.

Make sure to take a lot of photos to treasure all of these memories.

Next, let’s explore the Montgomery Zoo. One of its standout features is the miniature train that traverses the entire zoo, making exploration easy and accessible. If your kid is too small or simply prefers not to walk, you have the luxury of riding this train throughout the zoo.

Additionally, the Montgomery Zoo is home to 750 animals from 140 different species. Admission prices are $15 for adults and $11 for kids, giving you ample time to ensure your kids are happy and fulfilled with the experience. Consider purchasing some feed sticks for $2 each to enhance the interaction with the animals.

On the other hand, the zoo is very charming and has a serene landscape with varieties of exotic wildlife and endangered species like Jaguar, Ocelot, Sloth bear, Greater rhea, Squirrel monkey, Spider monkey, Tamarin, Titi monkey, Maned wolf Giant theatre, etc. 

Pro tip – Choose the zoo that is closest to your home destination for convenience and ease of travel.

5. Board a Dolphin Cruise 🐬

Dolphins are known as some of the friendliest creatures on Earth, and kids absolutely love their playful and cheerful nature. Now, here’s some exciting news!

Few coastal companies and cruises offer dolphin tours for families and kids to explore the gigantic sea and interact with friendly and cheerful dolphins.

If you’re a fan of cruises, the sea, and marine life, and you (with your kids) are looking to explore the vast ocean under a crystal-clear sky, surrounded by a serene and captivating environment, then booking a dolphin cruise is the perfect choice for you.

It is one of the most unique activities and a great opportunity for both of you. So, make sure to take a voyage where you can have a glimpse of some cute and acrobatic dolphins

Now, these delightful dolphin cruises are mainly found in the coastal areas, such as Gulf Shores and Dauphin Island.

Fact – Luck is a crucial factor, because if you’re lucky then you will encounter lots of dolphins, but the complete opposite is also true. However, most of the time, dolphins are visible.

Plus, I’m confident that after the trip, you and your kid will be satisfied and amazed by the fun experience of this luxurious trip. I know that the location might be a bit far but you can plan a whole trip around this activity, like exploring the gulf shores beach and park, etc.

6. Relax in a Trampoline Park ⏫

Want to visit a fun and childish place to blow off some steam, then A trampoline park might be a perfect destination.

Thankfully, Alabama boasts numerous trampoline parks where you and your child can bounce away any fatigue and stress. Not only is it incredibly fun, but it’s also a healthy activity that promotes both mental and physical well-being for your little ones.

Moreover, these are completely safe and secure. However, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your children, as they may wander into the adult areas with more challenging trampolines.

You don’t need to exert any effort. It’s as simple as breathing. Just hop on the trampoline, let your body relax, and go with the flow. However, ensure that you and your kids are having fun because that’s what truly matters.

Besides this, if you have an amazing trampoline park nearby, then make sure to visit it frequently. If you’re looking for recommendations, I highly recommend checking out Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, specifically the Birmingham branch.

Indeed, Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park in Birmingham is known as the largest trampoline park in Alabama, offering much more than just jumping. You’ll find thrilling and fun activities like foam pits, a rock climbing wall, a zip line, extreme dodgeball, performance trampolines, and more. Additionally, they provide picnic tables for a convenient lunch or meal break during your visit.

And, I understand that every adult has an inner child who longs to visit a place like this. That’s why I included it, as these parks cater to both age groups. They feature separate areas for kids and adults, ensuring everyone can have a blast in a safe and enjoyable environment.

7. Visit the Space Center 🛰️

If your kids love space stuff and you want your kid to explore a more knowledgeable but fun place, then the US Rocket and Space Center might be a great destination.

And, it’s not just for the kids; it’s an enriching experience for everyone. With a host of fun activities and a wealth of historical and cutting-edge space knowledge, it’s bound to leave you awe-inspired.

Now, there is an admission fee of $30 for adults and $20 for kids. Consider visiting on Thursdays for a discount and a complimentary meal.

Talking about the center, after entering you and your kid will encounter a lot of space and astronaut stuff, like displays, vocals, and background music sound plus a room that showcases the daily life of astronauts in outer space, 

Additionally, the center offers thrilling simulators and scuba diving experiences, all supervised by professionals. If I may suggest, the simulators are a must-try—safe, fun, and a truly unique experience. For an extra adventure, consider the basic space training and flying the F-18 space hornet.

Finally, after an exciting day of exploration, you can take a leisurely stroll outside the facility to relax and unwind, letting go of any remaining exhaustion.

In a nutshell, this place can inspire your kid to be a space freak and I forget, you can even watch the historic Apollo moon landing – VIRTUALLY.

8. Spend a day in a Family Park 🌳

Now, if you’re seeking a blend of leisure and fun in a family-friendly setting, Desoto Caverns Family Park is a must-visit.

This park is specifically made for families and kids, where you have plenty of activities to engage in, an open space for some leisure walks and a tranquil time that even your kid will find fascinating.

The unique fact about this park is its location. This fun theme park is mostly designed around the country’s first known cave. So, if you want to explore the cave with your kid, then you are free to do so.

This park offers a sprawling area for picnics, exploration, camping, and more. Additionally, it features a host of unique and entertaining attractions such as laser light shows, sound and water displays, a campground, and picturesque waterfalls.

In summary, there’s no shortage of fascinating things for your kids to explore and captivating activities to enjoy yourself.

Now, some of the other attractions in this park include –

• DeSoto’s Lost Trail Maze
• Wacky Water Golf
• Crystal Find
• A butterfly house paddle boating
• Gem panning. 

Moreover, anyone can visit this park, no matter your age, gender etc. So, when you are looking for Things To Do In Alabama With Kids and family, make sure this is on your top.

9. Take a Birmingham Bus tour 🚐

You can embark on a Birmingham Bus Tour, specially designed for kids, to explore the wonders of the city in a fun and educational way!

It is the most efficient and effortless way to explore the whole city without doing a single thing.

Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity to teach your kids about the rich history and geography of Birmingham. The city boasts impressive infrastructure, renowned attractions, beautiful parks, charming shops, cozy cafes, and more. A full tour promises an engaging and enlightening experience for the whole family.

Plus, it provides a safe and secure way for your child to explore the city by your side. You can even bring along some snacks for quick bites during the tour.

Don’t mention you can see all the major attractions of Alabama, and Birmingham just by sitting on a bus, relaxing without any effort.

This trip is generally run for one day and covers all the major attractions, including the Civil Rights history. But the best part of this bus tour is that you can move at your leisure inside the bus.

However, your kids should be more than 5 years old to embark on this bus tour. But, I’m sure you won’t regret it.

So, if you want your kid to explore this wonderful Birmingham city and know about its geography and history, then this Bus tour is one of the best ways for this lifelong experience.

10. Bring your kids to a Beach 🏖️

Finally, How about some fun and pleasure time on the shore of a charming beach with your lovely kids? Thankfully, Alabama boasts plenty of kid-friendly beaches that are not only super safe but also exceptionally fun, offering tons of activities for the little ones to enjoy.

Now, if you’re looking for recommendations, Gulf Shores Beach is the top choice in my mind. It’s easily the best beach in Alabama, drawing in millions of visitors annually.

Beginning with the best feature, Gulf Shores Beach boasts pristine white sands that are truly unique. Imagine you and your kids amid a turquoise sea, with crystal-clear white sands beneath your feet and a stunning sunset painting the sky.

Furthermore, the beach is conveniently located near the town, ensuring you won’t feel secluded. You’ll have easy access to all the necessary facilities and amenities such as shopping, dining, and more, all just a stone’s throw away.

Now, besides swimming, and water activities, it also offers volleyball, sunbathing, etc. Plus, you can hunt some pretty seashells with your kids. The excitement of finding one will keep them entertained and eager to search for more.

Except for the beach, it also provides some amazing things to do in Alabama for kids like the zoo and Waterville. Although the zoo is not famous or great like Birmingham and Montgomery, it adds another flavor or activity to your beach trip. Plus, in Waterville, you can find aquatic animals and crocodiles that your kid might find interesting.

In short, a beach should be on your kid-friendly bucket list.

FAQ

Wrap Up

So, I hope you have listed some of the best and fun things to do with your kid in Alabama. If you want me to summarise it and give my personal opinion then here it is.

Alabama has an abundance of family and kid-friendly attractions, whether you are looking for some parks, adventure, playing areas, museums or a famous attraction

However, make sure to keep an eye on him, and try to have a basic idea of your kid’s likes and dislikes. So, that you can consider the activities that suit his/her needs.

In my opinion, make a plan or bucket list, like for things to do, first, you can start in a park, safari camp or museum, then go to an amusement park and go on a dolphin cruise. And finally, a trampoline park to get rid of all fatigue.

But, if the destination is too far from your home then consider the nearest alternative. Because the only thing that matters is your kid’s happiness. If he/she is satisfied with the simple and nearby attraction then it is beneficial for both of you.