Summer is here, and we want to help you make the most of this season with your toddler! Birmingham has a lot to offer families with toddlers any time of year, but summer is always an extra special time for families to be together. We’ve put together a list of the top summer activities for toddlers in Birmingham. So slather on the sunscreen, grab a snow cone, and let the memory making begin!
1. Birmingham Zoo
This year, the Birmingham Zoo is celebrating 70 years of animal conservation. With approximately 550 animals of 180 species and endangered species from 6 continents, the Birmingham Zoo is a favorite of many Birmingham families. Other than the amazing animals, my children never want to miss the splash pad, train ride, and opportunities to feed the lorikeets and giraffes. New zoo residents include Baxter and Boomer, 7 year old bobcats, and Spruce and Juniper, cougar cubs who your toddlers will love! Pack your zoo bag with sunscreen, hats, water, snacks, swimsuits for the splash pad, towels, and a bag for wet swimwear.
2. Let’s Play
Let’s Play is a huge indoor playground that most preschool and elementary-aged children will go wild for. From slides and ball pits to tot-sized ninja courses, there is something for every kid, here. There is even a “Kiddie Towne” so the under-4 crowd can have safe and engaging age-appropriate play. They have locations in Hoover and 280.
3. Libraries
We are fortunate to have amazing libraries nearby. Both Jefferson and Shelby County libraries not only keep a huge selection of children’s books, but they also have fun and educational events for all ages as part of their summer reading programs. Many of them also have play areas for little ones. We’ve linked the events calendars for many of the libraries in our area below.
Jefferson County
- Birmingham Public Library
- Center Point Public Library
- Clay Public Library
- Homewood Public Library
- Hoover Public Library
- Irondale Public Library
- Leeds Jane Culbreth Library
- Mountain Brook – O’Neal Library
- Pinson Public Library
- Pleasant Grove Public Library
- Trussville Public Library
- Vestavia Hills Public Library
Shelby County
- Alabaster – Albert L. Scott Library
- Chelsea Public Library
- Columbiana Public Library
- North Shelby Library
- Montevallo – Parnell Memorial Library
4. McWane Science Center
The McWane Science Center is a favorite destination for families who love to play and learn together. Ignite your child’s curiosity about the world around them and help them fall in love with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) at McWane! We put together the Mom’s Guide to the McWane Science Center to help you plan your day. Don’t miss the Itty Bitty Magic City and Tot Spot, which are made just for young children and toddlers. In Itty Bitty Magic City, toddlers can enjoy water play and a huge soft play structure. Stop by Main Street for pretend play in a grocery store, diner, auto shop, veterinarian office, and more!
5. Parks
What toddler doesn’t love a park with a good swing and slide? We have the Ultimate Guide to Birmingham Parks and Playgrounds, which gives you the details you want on every park in the Birmingham area. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, snacks, and water! If you have early risers, I highly recommend starting your day at the park before the the weather heats up.
6. Splash Pads and Swimming Pools
Whether you are just wanting to let your little one cool down at a splash pad or hope to teach them to swim at a pool, Birmingham has you covered! Check out our Ultimate Guide to Birmingham Splash Pads and Pools to make your summer days cooler and your crew happier. Remember sunscreen, hats, towels, a bag for wet clothing, snacks, water, and a dry change of clothes. My kids always prefer to wear water shoes at the splash pads to prevent their feet from slipping and scraping on the concrete.
What is your toddler’s favorite summer spot in Birmingham? Tell us about it below!
