Looking for fun things to do with kids in Birmingham without spending a penny? This quick guide rounds up the best free parks, museums, and family-friendly spots around Bham for an easy day out. Not to mention free local events perfect for the whole family, updated weekly!
Local Events Coming Up
Spring Into Girl Scouts
When: Saturday, March 7; Times vary by location (many are 10–11 a.m. or 2:30–3:30 p.m.)
Where: Locations include Leeds, Gardendale, Inverness, McCalla, Trussville, and more.
This free event is designed for girls grades K–12 who are interested in becoming a Girl Scout! There will be multiple events across the region and each will feature simple, hands-on activities. Girls will meet an animal (animals may vary by location), paint a watercolor butterfly, and plant a daisy in a take-home flower pot—perfect for welcoming spring and trying something new. No membership required, but registration is requested.
McWane Science Center’s New Basilosaurus Exhibit
When: Tuesday–Friday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday: noon–5 p.m.
Where: McWane Science Center—Lobby
Details: Head to the lobby to see this new (old!) fossil exhibit. The Basilosaurus is not a dino, despite what it sounds like—it was actually a huge prehistoric whale! And it’s actually Alabama’s state fossil, so don’t miss it! (While it costs to enter the Adventure Hall, it is free to peruse the newest specimen located in the lobby!)
Exceptional Lives Expo 2026
When: March 21 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Vestavia Hills Civic Center (1090 Montgomery Hwy., Vestavia Hills)
Details: Check out Birmingham Parent Magazine’s annual special needs expo, with resources, support organizations, and fun activities for families of people with special needs.
Cherry Blossom Festival
When: March 21 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens (2612 Lane Park Rd., Birmingham)
Details: Explore the richness of Japanese culture at this free family-friendly event through activities, delicious food, vibrant music, and thrilling martial arts demonstrations.
Always Free
Alabama State Parks Junior Ranger Program
Alabama State Parks launched its new Junior Park Ranger Program! Complete the activities in the free downloadable Adventure Guide and upon completion, your child will earn their Junior Ranger Badge and an official Certificate of Achievement. Participation is open to kids of all ages, but it is designed primarily for kids ages 5–12. No previous experience required. Program booklets can be found at most AL parks and nature centers.
Birmingham Botanical Garden
2612 Lane Park Rd., Birmingham
Stroll through the gardens for free—the Japanese garden is a favorite, but the Rose garden in bloom is unbeatable. You can even stop into the Birmingham Botanical Library while you’re there to pick up a book on plants or borrow from the seeds library.
Birmingham Museum of Art
2000 Reverend Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., Birmingham
General Admission is FREE every day and there are all kinds of cool pieces of art to look at. Not to mention sensory-friendly hours and special events.
Jefferson County Public Libraries
Multiple locations
There are dozens of locations, and each offers an insane number of fabulous events. From storytime to arts and crafts to gaming sessions and more, there’s endless fun to be had. Not to mention, it’s the perfect place to snag a few new bedtime books!
Parks
Multiple locations
There are soooo many fantastic parks across Birmingham. Whether you’re looking for an epic playground like the one at Patriots Park or you’re wanting a walking trail like Jemison, Birmingham has something for everyone.
Pepper Place Farmers Market
2829 2nd Ave. S., Birmingham
Every Saturday morning from January 31—December 12 from 7 a.m. until noon (rain or shine!), you can head to Pepper Place to check out their Alabama-grown and raised goods. Whether you’re looking for fresh fruit and veggies, a sweet potato pie, or a hand-crafted gift, you’re bound to find something at this market. (However, it is free, so you can always just try the samples and admire!)
Red Mountain Park
2011 Frankfurt Dr., Birmingham
There is no parking or admission fee to enter (though they do offer a membership program). They have picnic areas, biking trails, a sensory trail, birdwatching, a dog park, hiking and trail running, a garden, a tree house, and more! Feel free to bring your pet on a leash so they can explore too. The park also offers fun free events like bird-watching walks and greenhouse workdays.
Shelby County Public Libraries
Multiple locations
Shelby County has dozens of libraries—you’ll find there’s plenty to do at each, and they’re all free! So whether you’re hoping for a book adventure or your kids attend an event, it’ll be a worthwhile free experience.
Vulcan Park (Grounds/Park area)
1701 Valley View Dr., Birmingham
While the museum of the Vulcan is not free, you can walk around near the base of the statue and get a great view of the city. (Not to mention a close-up view of Vulcan himself.) Plus, there’s a walking trail that begins at the parking lot, perfect for a family walk.
