Exploring downtown Birmingham is fun for both residents and visitors. Whether your children are athletes, theater-lovers, artists, scientists, or just kids looking for a good time, downtown Birmingham delivers family fun for making memories that will last a lifetime. Here are our top 10 things to do in downtown Birmingham with kids.
1. Birmingham Children’s Theatre
The Birmingham Children’s Theatre (BCT) offers shows that will entertain the whole family all year long. If your child is interested in acting, BCT has acting classes and camps starting at age 4.
Location: 2130 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd North
Hours: Showtimes vary
2. Birmingham Museum of Art
The Birmingham Museum of Art has a special area called ArtVenture that is free and features hands-on exhibits like weaving, printmaking, and pottery for children ages 5 to 12. For children who are old enough to visit the main exhibits, there is a scavenger hunt to help them stay engaged.
Location: 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard
Hours: Tuesday- Saturday, 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Sunday Noon- 5:00 PM
3. Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC)
The BJCC is Birmingham’s largest entertainment venue and often hosts shows and concerts that are family-friendly. The Birmingham Squadron basketball team calls the BJCC home, so sports-loving families will enjoy cheering on Birmingham’s favorite basketball team there.
Location: 2100 Richard Arrington Jr Boulevard North
Hours: Showtimes vary
4. City Walk BHAM
City Walk BHAM is a fun area in downtown Birmingham that has entertainment for everyone. Kids can bring their skateboards or roller skates to enjoy the largest skate park in central Alabama or to skate at the roller-skating rink next door. City Walk also features a playground for younger kids and pickleball courts that will have the entire family playing together.
Location: 15th Street North & 9th Avenue North to 25th Street & 9th Avenue North
Hours: Monday- Sunday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Pickleball Courts: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Roller Rink: Wednesday- Friday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday- Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM - Skate Park: Monday- Friday, Noon – 8:00 PM
Saturday- Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
5. Farmer’s Market at Pepper Place
The Farmer’s Market at Pepper Place not only has delicious produce from local farms, it also has vendors selling artwork, flowers, pastries, and more. Bring your family dog and enjoy a relaxing morning strolling through the market with a freshly made breakfast in hand.
Location: 2829 2nd Avenue South
Hours: Saturday, 7:00 AM – Noon
6. McWane Science Center
The McWane Science Center is a science-loving-kid’s dream come true! Explore four floors of exhibits, see an IMAX movie, and entertain even tiny tots in the Itty Bitty Magic City. Check out our Mom’s Guide to McWane Science Center for everything you need to know before you go!
Location: 200 19th Street North
Hours: Wednesday- Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday, Noon – 5:00 PM
7. Protective Stadium
Protective Stadium is home to the Birmingham Stallions football team, Legion FC Soccer, and UAB Blazers Football. Whether you have season passes or want to just stop in for a game or two, your family will have a blast cheering on your team. At UAB home games, your kids will especially enjoy the Family Fun Zone with inflatables and activities for children. Protective Stadium features a sensory room if your kiddo needs a break from the noise and crowds.
Location: 1020 24th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Hours: Game times vary
8. Railroad Park
Railroad Park is known as Birmingham’s “Front Lawn,” a fitting name since it has so much free space to walk, play, and explore. Your family can take one of several walking trails around the park to see beautiful flowers and water features. There are two playgrounds, but children also love watching the passing trains and having a picnic lunch from one of the food trucks that are frequent the area.
Location: 1600 1st Avenue South
Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
9. Regions Field
Regions Field is home to the Birmingham Barons baseball team. Visit Regions field for nine innings of fun. The Barons don’t just play baseball- they offer food and entertainment at every game that makes each one special and memory- worthy.
Location: 1401 1st Avenue South
Hours: Game times vary
10. Vulcan Park and Museum
Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue and overlooks the city of Birmingham. The Vulcan Park and Museum is more than just a statue. The museum tells the history of Vulcan and our city. Your kids will love seeing for miles and miles as the observation tower reveals breathtaking views of the city. The park grounds and Vulcan trail are great places for a picnic lunch and an afternoon exploring nature.
Location: 1701 Valley View Drive
Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday- Saturday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
