Destination:
Alabama

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a homage to the spirit of both well-known and unsung civil rights heroes. Visitors take a self-directed journey through the permanent exhibitions, which chronicle the history of segregation and the civil rights struggle in America. It is a 'living institution', using the lessons of the past to shed new light on human rights issues today. Birmingham's pivotal role in the struggle takes central focus.

Vulcan Park

Located atop Red Mountain, Vulcan Park is home to the world's largest cast-iron statue, the second-tallest statue in America, behind the Statue of Liberty. The statue of the Roman god is surrounded by a 10-acre green space offering panoramic views of Birmingham. The park contains a museum and observation balcony with panoramic views of Birmingham. The Observation Tower is also open at night, giving visitors a good opportunity for star-gazing.

Birmingham Zoo

The Birmingham Zoo, Alabama's most popular non-profit attraction, brings 800 wild animals to the centre of Birmingham. There is an interactive aviary, where parrots land on visitors' shoulders, a savannah safari exhibit and a sea lion show. Picnic areas and a food and gift shop are available. Daily activities include pelican feeding, sea lion training demonstrations, and tours of the Predator Zone. Check the zoo's website for times.

Talladega Superspeedway

The South is the home of NASCAR, and about 30 minutes from Birmingham lies the legendary Talladega Superspeedway, one of the most competitive motorsports facilities in the world. More than 143,000 guests can be accommodated in the stands and thousands more in the 212-acre infield. The sheer volume of fans, let alone the record-breaking speed of the racers, makes a visit unforgettable. When no events are scheduled, tours are available daily. Adjacent to the track is the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and Museum, also open daily, which displays racing cars and memorabilia worth more than $15 million. A self-guided walking tour of the museum takes roughly an hour.

Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens

This stately plantation house is a great way to get a taste of real Southern heritage. Situated on six acres in the heart of Old Elyton, the house was built by Judge William S Mudd, one of the founders of Birmingham, in the 1840s. The house itself functions as a 19th-century decorative arts museum, with a collection of furniture, artwork, textiles and silver from the 19th century. The grounds are also beautiful, spread across six acres of leafy pasture.

Alabama Adventure Water and Theme Park

One of the most popular family attractions in Alabama, the Alabama Adventure Park is located just 30 minutes' drive from Birmingham in Bessemer. The park has two sections: a waterpark and an amusement park. The amusement park contains the state's largest wooden roller coaster and other thrill rides (including gentler rides like bumber cars and a carousel for small children), while the water park has eight major attractions for all ages. There are a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops scattered throughout the park. Alabama Adventure Park also hosts concerts and events throughout the summer.

Russell Cave National Monument

Located in northeastern Alabama, Russell Cave National Monument is one of the longest cave systems in Alabama at 7.2 miles (11.6km) long. Used as a shelter by prehistoric Native Americans, the cave is about 12,000 years old and contains a natural spring that eventually joins up with the Tennessee River. Russell Cave itself is roughly 210 feet (64m) long, 107 feet (33m) wide, and 26 feet (8m) high. The cave shelter is located approximately 300 yards (300m) from the visitor center and is accessable via an elevated wooden boardwalk. Guided tours of the cave shelter are conducted by National Park Service Interpretative Rangers. The cave shelter includes the areas that were occupied by the prehistoric groups and features a diorama depicting activities of the occupants.

Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain State Park is a great place for outdoor activities on any holiday in Birmingham. The park is equipped with over 50 miles (80km) of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, and has plenty of picnic facilities for day trips. Two lakes on the north end of the park are good for fishing, and boats and canoes are available for rental. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy the 18-hole golf course, complete with a pro shop and driving range. Teenagers can challenge themselves on the BMX courses, while children will love the petting farm.

Monroe County