Is your family long overdue for a day of fun together?
With so many closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, finding fun things to do as a family can be tough. Rather than waiting for the OK for your family’s annual vacation or for some other big events to resume, you can squeeze in more quality time by taking a much-needed day trip.
If you and your family are eager for some fun and adventure while maintaining your social distancing practices, here are 5 places around the Hoover area that make for a perfect day trip.
1. See over 200 different species of animals and learn more about the importance of conservation at the Birmingham Zoo.
The Birmingham Zoo is a paradise for animal-loving families, and is now open for you and your family to explore. Although the zoo is only operating as an outdoor experience, there is still plenty for families with kids of all ages to see and do. You can view their zoo map online to get an idea of exhibits, and you can find their Daily Activities calendar on their website as well.
Make sure you get well-acquainted with the zoo’s health and safety guidelines before scheduling your online reservation to see some of your favorite animals.
2. Stroll through over 30 thematic gardens or take a class together at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
As of June 15, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is open to the public and serves as a fantastic outing for families looking to spend the day outdoors in nature. The Gardens’ 67.5-acre property has over 30 different themed gardens to visit, such as the Barber Alabama Woodlands, the Japanese Gardens, and the Southern Living Garden.
You can plan your visit by taking a look at the online map of the Gardens. The Birmingham Gardens also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including classes for families and kids.
3. Nothing beats some good, old-fashioned family fun at the Alabama Adventure Amusement Park and Splash Adventure.
When your kids have energy to burn and you want to join in on the fun, a day at the Alabama Adventure Amusement Park and Splash Adventure Park is exactly what you need. Some awesome amusement attractions include the Rampage roller coaster, the Galleon Swinging Ship ride, and the classic Teacups ride. Some attractions for Splash Adventure include Upsurge, Castaway Island, and Warrior Lazy River, a perfect spot to relax while your kids explore the park.
Be sure to head over to the Alabama Adventure website to check out their updated health and safety guidelines and view an online map of the park.
4. Experience fun dog parks and extensive hiking/biking trails at Red Mountain Park.
When you want to spend the day outdoors with your family and friends, a trip to Red Mountain Park is the answer. Although Red Mountain Park’s rock-climbing and zip-lining adventures are currently closed to the public, you and your family can still take advantage of the best nature has to offer with over 15 miles of exciting and diverse hiking/biking trails. You can stay informed about the park’s future updates by visiting their Activities webpage.
For family members with limited mobility, ask about The Nomads. These are high-powered, off-roading wheelchairs that will allow them to explore sections of Red Mountain Park with you.
5. Explore the caves, catch a laser light show, and check out the Wacky Attractions at the DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park.
If you haven’t been to the DeSoto Caverns yet, now’s the time to do it! Open Thursday through Monday, the DeSoto Caverns is a beautiful place with a very rich history. Not only is exploring the caves a breathtaking experience, but it’s also an opportunity to delve into the scientific side of caverns while keeping you and your family safe with social distancing practices. You can also watch the Caverns Light Show if you go on their Timeless Tour.
When you’re finished exploring the caverns, you can head to the Wacky Park Attractions to pan for gemstones, fid your way through the DeSoto Lost Trail Maze, or play a round of Wacky Water Golf.
Don’t forget to visit Brocks Gap Dental Group before heading out on your next family trip.
Nothing can ruin a day of fun quite like a toothache. If it’s been a while since your family had routine dental checks, booking appointments now will ensure everyone is smiling brightly on the next family trip.
Brocks Gap Dental Group is a family-focused dental practice offering care for everyone in your family, from toddlers to grandparents. Between our four doctors and the rest of our compassionate, skilled dental team, Brocks Gap Dental Group covers pediatric dentistry, family & general dentistry, and orthodontics.
We recommend everyone in your family comes to see us for an exam and cleaning every six months. If you have young children in your family, we encourage you to book a consultation with our pediatric orthodontist at around seven years of age as well.
When you’re ready to visit Brocks Gap Dental Group, you can either call our office or fill out our online appointment request form. If you have multiple family members due for dental care, let us know and we will do our best to get your appointments booked on the same day.
