The weather is beautiful and everything is blooming! And while many parks and playgrounds are closed right now, there are some amazing open parks, gardens, and spaces that kids and adults alike can walk around and enjoy while still practicing social distancing. Here are a few of our favorites . . .
Places to Explore in Birmingham While Social Distancing
Aldridge Gardens
Aldridge Gardens is located in Hoover off of Lorna Road, and my kids found it MAGICAL! There are lots of plants, trails, benches, a six-acre lake, and lots of sweet animals to enjoy.
Oak Mountain State Park
What are some things you can do at Oak Mountain State Park during this time? Hike, cycle, golf, nature watch, bring your own water vessel, fish, and more! Currently the demonstration farm is closed, but they are still allowing visitors to stand at the fence and watch the animals.
Veterans Park
Veterans Park is conveniently located on Valleydale Road and has lots of open spaces to run around (that’s what my kids love best!). It has a 5K cross country trail and a large veterans’ memorial; and it is surrounded by a four-acre lake, a one-acre pond, and a walking/running trail.
Heardmont Park
You’ll love the places to explore at Heardmont Park! The creek-side walking trail is lighted and follows along the scenic Cahaba Valley Creek. It is handicap accessible.
Alabama Safari Park
Located in Montgomery, Alabama Safari Park is a 350-acre drive-thru adventure, where you stay in the car and the animals roam free!
Lakeshore Trail
We love the Lakeshore Trail for running, walking, and riding bikes! It is 5.1 miles long and runs parallel to Lakeshore Drive. Dogs on a leash are welcome!
Jemison Park Nature Trail
The Jemison Park Nature Trail runs through Mountain Brook and is a 3.4 mile loop. You can find lots of wildflowers and a creek to play in!
Ruffner Mountain
Ruffner Mountain is located in the heart of Birmingham! There are 14 miles of trails of varying difficulty level.
Red Mountain Park
Red Mountain Park, a non-profit organization, offers 1,500 wooded acres located in Birmingham, three miles west of I-65 (Lakeshore Parkway Exit #255). Visitors can enjoy over 15 miles of walking, hiking and mountain biking trails.
Railroad Park
We love the wide open space in downtown’s Railroad Park! Be sure to keep walking, running, and moving to obey the city’s ordinances.
Moss Rock Preserve
Moss Rock Preserve is a beautiful 349-acre nature preserve abundant with forest systems, large rock outcroppings, streams, waterfalls, wildlife, and other unique natural features. Check out these huge boulders!
Turkey Creek
Located just 15 miles north of urban Birmingham in Pinson, Alabama, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve protects some of the most stunning beauty in the Southeast. Hiking, biking, and fishing are still allowed during this time.
Sims Garden
Sims Garden is a pocket garden in the Edgewood Neighborhood of Homewood. Its a great place to explore nature!
McCallum Park
The trails and creek are the real star of McCallum Park. There is also a large field for running and getting the wiggles out!
Orr Park
Located in Montevallo, Orr Park borders Shoal Creek and is home to dozens of beautiful tree carvings. Their trails and large fields are a big hit when trying to get out, enjoy nature, and run around!
Sugar Hill U-Pick Farms
Family-owned and operated, Sugar Hill U-Pick Farms has 141,000 strawberry plants where you can bring the whole family and pick delicious strawberries, or you can purchase them pre-picked. Be sure to check their Facebook page before you go as their hours change depending on availability.
Before you head out on your nature adventure, be sure to check the website and social media on these places as some have changed during the pandemic. Most have limited hours and no bathrooms, so plan accordingly!
