Just a few hours west of Atlanta, travel to the “Magic City” for the weekend.

Sloss Furnaces

Now considered a National Historic Landmark, this factory produced iron for almost 90 years. Stop by the educational Visitor’s Center to learn about the history of the building, and take a self-guided walking tour around the old, giant furnaces. Public-guided tours are held by appointment only and cost $10. Self-guided tours are free.

Vulcan

Commissioned for the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair to commemorate Alabama’s iron and steel industry, the Roman God of forge now stands tall over the city of Birmingham. The park and museum offer awesome views of downtown, and would be a great place to let the kids run around and have a picnic.

Homewood

A great area to walk around and visit local shops and restaurants, including Homewood Toy and Hobby Shop for some vintage toy finds, and eat at Salem’s Diner, home to tons of Alabama and Auburn football memorabilia and tasty breakfast and lunch fare.

McWane Science Center

If you are walking around downtown, McWane is a great place to stop with the kids. Visit the Itty Bitty Magic City play area for kindergarten and younger, The Shark and Ray Touch Tank, The Bubble Room, ScienceQuest area and more. The Giant Theatre’s screens are dome-shaped for an enhanced experience.

Other Stops:

Post Office Pies: A post office turned hand-tossed pizza shop in Avondale.

Birmingham Museum of Art: A large collection of art and a hands-on kid’s area with make-your-own-art stations and projects inspired by current exhibits. Admission to the museum is free.

Joe Minter’s African Village in America: The house and yard areas are made from scraps – basketball hoops, statues, toys and more. 931 Nassau Ave. SW, Birmingham.

Color Tunnel: A huge network of colorful LEDs installed in a tunnel – makes for a great photo spot. Located on 18th Street in downtown Birmingham near Railroad Park.

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