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Kid-Friendly Huntsville & Decatur
There's a lot of fun to be had in the Huntsville and Decatur area for kids! Check out our list of cool attractions your kids are sure to love.
Burritt on the Mountain
Burritt on the Mountain — A Living Museum has been referred to as a "Jewel on the Mountain." Start with Dr. William Henry Burritt's eclectic mansion, add a historic park with restored 19th-century houses including barnyards and animals, and finally throw in the artistic side with concerts, plays and exhibits, and you have a delightful mixture of old and new for young and old!
In 1955, Dr. Burritt willed his mansion and surrounding 167 acres of land on Round-Top Mountain to the city of Huntsville (making it Huntsville's first museum). Since that time, volunteers and community activists have brought original homes from the area to Burritt to be restored and utilized as an educational facility. Our interpreters are always busy demonstrating activities as one would see on a 19th-century farm. Blacksmithing, spinning, and cooking over an open hearth are just some of the skills employed in our historic park. In the Burritt Barnyard, visitors can get "up close and personal" with an animal that would have been used for work, wool, or even food for the farmers and their families.
Cook Museum of Natural Science
The Cook Museum of Natural Science, located in downtown Decatur, Alabama, is a hands-on, immersive experience where guests can explore, interact with, and learn about nature.
Huntsville Botanical Garden
Open year-round, the Huntsville Botanical Garden has 112 acres to explore, learn, and discover the beauty and wonder of plants. From grassy meadows to woodland paths, aquatic habitats to stunning floral collections, the Garden invites guests of all ages to make memories together in nature.
On a visit to the Garden, you can stroll along the nature trails while admiring collections of Alabama's native plants. If you visit with little ones, head to the Children's Garden for play, pretend, and hands-on learning. From May through September, you won't want to miss seeing over 1,000 brightly colored butterflies the nation's largest open-air butterfly house. Finally, at the end of the day, you can find a moment of serenity in the cool shade of the trees, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Point Mallard Park
The Point Mallard Waterpark is home to America's First Wave Pool and so much more! There's also Point Mallard Golf Course, Point Mallard Ice Complex, Point Mallard Camp Ground, and Strike Zone Batting Cages.
Since opening its doors in 1970, nearly 16 million people have toured the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. The vast majority of those visitors have been from out of state or from foreign nations. Many of the more than 550,000 annual visitors are school students on field trips to their future. Dozens of interactive exhibits encourage visitor participation, prompting one official to note: "Here, everyone can be an astronaut for the day!"
Home to Space Camp® and Aviation Challenge® Camp, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) is the most comprehensive U.S. manned spaceflight hardware museum in the world. Its large rocket and space hardware collection is valued in the tens of millions of dollars. From America's first satellite, Explorer I, to next generation space vehicles like Sierra Nevada's Dream Chaser, the museum showcases the past, present and future of human spaceflight.
The USSRC is more than just artifacts! Experience the physics of astronaut training like never before in simulators like Space Shotand G-Force. Our Spacedome IMAX® Theater transports you to different worlds with amazing documentary films like Hubble, and live demonstrations in the Discovery Theater will have you seeing space science in a whole new light. There's always something happening at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center!
See an actual moon rock at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
Author Brent BoydPosted on September 27, 2021 December 15, 2021 Categories Decatur, Huntsville, Madison, North AlabamaTags decatur, Huntsville, kid-friendly, kids activities, madison
Kid-Friendly Birmingham
Looking for some kid-friendly places to take the kids? We've put together a list of fun and educational places that are sure to entertain the kiddos!
Have you considered how exquisite a motorcycle is in its styling, mechanics, and capabilities? Their artistry is what Birmingham native George Barber saw when he began collecting motorcycles in 1988. Six years later, he established the Barber Museum as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Today, it is home to the largest collection of motorcycles in the world.
Located within a short walking distance to Mountain Brook Village, The Grand Bohemian Hotel and Lane Parke, the Birmingham Zoo is an ever-evolving adventure with approximately 900 animals of 230 species. Visitors come from around the Southeast to experience the Wildlife Show, Predator Zone, Giraffe Feedings and the Sea Lion Show. With new features such as a jaguar and howler monkeys, the Birmingham Zoo is the perfect place to make memories to last a lifetime.
High Point Climbing
High Point Climbing and Fitness in Birmingham is located in the completely renovated Next Fitness facility on Highway 280. High Point Birmingham brings world class climbing to Alabama with 25,000 square feet of indoor climbing surface featuring up to 52+ feet of climbing. The facility is now completely open with the Kid Zone, Bouldering, Weight, Aerobic, Yoga Room, and Route Area! Climbing Clubs and Team can be joined at anytime. Yoga is now offered five nights a week and is included with any Membership or Day Pass.Come have fun and get fit at High Point!
Fun and learning never end at McWane Science Center, a nonprofit, hands-on museum and IMAX® Dome Theater. Four floors of interactive exhibits celebrate science and wonder — from an amazing collection of dinosaurs to innovative environmental showcases, imaginative early childhood playgrounds, and an awe-inspiring aquarium. The energy and excitement of discovery spring to life through an extensive lineup of science demonstrations performed daily by talented educators. The adventure intensifies in the IMAX® Dome Theater, where wide-eyed visitors experience the sights and sounds of breathtaking films on a 5-story-tall screen surrounded by 3 tons of high-intensity speakers.
What kind of city builds a huge statue of a burly, bearded, bare-bottomed man to tower over its entire population? One that never forgets its roots. Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge, watches over all of Birmingham as a symbol of the city's iron origins–and the ever-present spark of its indomitable spirit.
Author Brent BoydPosted on September 20, 2021 December 15, 2021 Categories BirminghamTags birmingham, kid-friendly, kids activities
Best Burgers in Birmingham
Who doesn't love a thick, juicy hamburger with all the fixins? And fries? And an ice-cold Coke…or craft beer? Ok, we're starving now, so let's jump into the list of the best burgers in Birmingham.
(Feature photo) For fresh Southeastern coastal oysters as well as sushi and more unusual items like alligator tacos, fried pork skins, unique burgers, look no further than 5 Point Public House and Oyster Bar. The new South-side hot spot boasts an eclectic menu that is the brainchild of award-winning chef/owner George Reis. The foods aren't the only attraction, with more than 30 craft beers, 20 beers on tap and cocktails offered to pair with the food. The restaurant also has something unique to Birmingham—eight keg-style wines on tap to be served with dinner or enjoyed in the pub-style atmosphere of this local favorite.
Avondale Burger Co.
This one on the list is a food truck you'll find in the Birmingham area, and it serves up some amazing craft burgers by Chef Nick.
Chili cheese burger by @chefnicksy at Avondale Burger Co.
Jack Brown's Burger & Beer Joint
You definitely want to grab an award-winning burger from Jack Brown's Burger and Beer Joint! They use 100% Wagyu that's sourced from a family owned and operated farm in Boise, Idaho.
Bacon burger at Jack Brown's Burger and Beer Joint.
(photo by Jack Brown's Burger and Beer Joint)
With three locations in Alabama, Melt has a variety of delicious food from burgers to sandwiches to fried macaroni and cheese.
The cheeseburger at Melt is a must! (photo by Melt)
Even though we named a restaurant after dirt, the food is fantastic, fresh and fun. The beverages are cold and unique. The atmosphere is inviting and comforting. As you walk in to Mudtown, you will feel the prevailing friendly spirit, smell the enticing aromas from the kitchen and anticipate a quality dining experience served by people who genuinely appreciate you stopping by.
Cahaba cajun burger at Mudtown Eat & Drink. (photo by Mudtown Eat & Drink)
The Ridge is Birmingham's newest family dining experience. Located on Rocky Ridge Road, in Vestavia. The Ridge offers a fantastic selection of American fare. From custom burgers to original sandwiches and entrees that will impress any fine food lover, our menu has something for everyone. Share Bookmark Claim this Listing
Cheeseburger at The Ridge. (photo by The Ridge)
The Standard is a modern take on the classic Birmingham hamburger and hot dog shop. Created by Chef Matt Ralph, it features fresh ground burgers and all beef hot dogs.
Also on the menu, you'll find a house-made veggie burger, patty melt and a fried bologna sandwich—a southern classic. All of the sandwiches and hot dogs include fresh vegetables and house-made sauces.
Optional additions include pimento cheese, bacon jam, fried egg, and avocado. Add a side of fries, tots, coleslaw, or chips to complete your meal.
The Standard changes menu items seasonally, but the cheeseburger remains on the menu year round.
The Standard cheeseburger. (photo by The Standard)
Twisted Root Burger Co.
Their burgers are self-proclaimed "slap yo mamma" good and have been features on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives."
The Western burger at Twisted Root Burger Co. (photo by Twisted Root Burger Co.)
Village Tavern Scratch Kitchen-Craft Bar stands out for its passion and perfection of classic American cuisine. Be it for business lunches, gatherings or date night, Village Tavern is the place for all occasions. They are committed to providing the highest quality food, wine and service at an affordable price, while creating unforgettable dining experiences with exceptional hospitality.
Delicious burger at Village Tavern. (photo by Village Tavern)
Author Brent BoydPosted on September 17, 2021 December 15, 2021 Categories BirminghamTags birmingham, burger, cheeseburger
5 September Events You Don't Want to Miss
The weather is cooling down, and there are many fun events in Birmingham, Huntsville, and Decatur to help you welcome fall!
Sloss Furnace Fest
Furnace fest 2021 will be held at Sloss Furnace in Downtown Birmingham on September 24-26. You can buy tickets here: www.freshtix.com/events/furnacefest.
Night Blooms at the Huntsville Botanical Garden
Night Blooms will lead you on a one-mile walking journey through the Garden in the evening. As you make your way through the Garden, you will discover vignettes of botanical lanterns integrated into the natural surroundings. Intricately designed and handmade by trained artisans, these lanterns bring plants and wildlife to life, reimagining the living things of the Garden as illuminated, technicolor, and larger than life. From poppies and orchids to turtles and spiders, Night Blooms will show you just how extraordinary a walk through the Garden can be. Through September 26.
Peak Butterfly Season in the Purdy Butterfly House
The Purdy Butterfly House is a must-see in May through September! Peak Butterfly Season is the best time of year to visit the fluttering butterflies in the nation's largest open-air butterfly house. This immersive habitat is home to over 1,000 brightly-colored native butterflies, as well as turtles, fish, and frogs. Come meet our winged friends while enjoying a stroll among the waterfalls, ponds, streams, and lush vegetation. The Purdy Butterfly House is open during regular Garden hours and is included with Garden admission. Through September 30.
Drones: Is the Sky the Limit? at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Developed by subject experts from the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Drones: Is The Sky The Limit? explores the modern phenomenon of drones, their uses throughout history and the exciting possibilities of the future role that drones will play in our society.
Over the last 75 years, drones have evolved from remote-controlled planes used for target practice into versatile and highly specialized aircraft. As these aircraft fill the skies, they raise concerns about airspace, privacy and ethics in modern warfare. But these concerns are eclipsed by excitement for their potential: someday drones will explore Mars, serve as pilotless flying taxis, and deliver packages and groceries to our front doors.
Drones: Is The Sky The Limit? features real drones, in-depth label paneling and rich audio-visual content. The exhibition also includes a drone racing video interactive and provides a birds-eye view of the aeronautics, engineering, science, technologies and innovations of one of the most intriguing topics dominating our current culture.
Concerts by the River at Rhodes Ferry Park in Decatur
Concerts by the River will be September 13, 20, & 27 at Rhodes Ferry Park (Hwy 20 at Oak St) unless otherwise noted. All concerts are FREE and will begin at 6pm. There will be food trucks, so don't forget to bring your chairs or blankets. Weather info, cancellations, or venue moves will be posted, or you can call (256) 341-4818.
Author Brent BoydPosted on September 3, 2021 December 15, 2021 Categories Birmingham, Decatur, HuntsvilleTags birmingham, decatur, events, Huntsville, huntsville botanical garden, september
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