Woohoo, a day to rest from our labor! It’s funny how kids never seem to get that memo though… so here’s a list of fun activities y’all can do this weekend if you need some inspo for their day off school. Get the full list of fun activities on our digital calendar.

Get Outside!

Birmingham Zoo 

They’re open all day Labor Day (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), but first responders and healthcare workers get a special discount all weekend long: Their tickets will be $12/person with up to four guests at $12 each too! birminghamzoo.com

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

A relaxing (and free!) option for families who want to walk through themed gardens or let kids explore the trails. Be sure to stop by the koi pond in the Japanese garden to see who can spot the biggest fish! bbgardens.org

Local Farmers Markets (Pepper Place, Woodlawn Street Market, etc.) 

Labor Day weekend is peak season for Alabama produce. You’ll probably see me at Pepper Place on Saturday.

Oak Mountain State Park

Perfect for hiking, swimming at the lake beach, paddle boating, or even horseback riding. Might I suggest camping?

Splash Adventure Water Park (Bessemer) 

Labor Day is often the last chance of the season for water rides and lazy river fun—soon it’ll be too cold! Soak in the sunshine while slipping and sliding through the water rides at this nearby waterpark.

Sports & Games

Birmingham Barons Game at Regions Field

Friday, August 29 | 7 p.m. vs. Knoxville

Saturday, August 30 | 6:30 p.m. vs. Knoxville (Military Appreciation Night)

Sunday, August 31 | 4 p.m. vs. Knoxville

A family-friendly atmosphere, fireworks, baseball and kid activities… what more could you want? (I passed the inflatables this week and was tempted to try them out myself. They’ll love them!) Plus, it’s WICKED night at the Park, put on by BJCC. Don’t forget to wear your pink and green! Learn more or grab your tickets ($17+) from their website.

Topgolf or Fairway Social

Fun for both parents and kids, with games, food, and interactive play. Yay!

Indoor Fun

McWane Science Center

Hands-on exhibits, IMAX movies, and the aquarium make it a cool retreat. Make sure to catch Prince: Sign o’ the Times concert film in the IMAX dome—there are multiple showings Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Tickets (~$17) can be purchased on their website.

Urban Air Adventure Park

Trampolines, climbing walls, and ropes courses for active kiddos!

Sit & Snack

Family Picnic at Railroad Park or Vulcan Park

Pack a cooler and let the kids run around while you sit back and enjoy this slightly cooler weather and the beautiful skyline views of our lovely city.

Local BBQ Spots

Labor Day = BBQ. Head to Saw’s, Dreamland, Martin’s, or Rodney Scott’s to grab an easy and delicious meal that can feed a crowd.

Ice Cream Crawl

End the day by trying one of Birmingham’s favorite ice cream shops (Big Spoon Creamery, Jeni’s, Bluff Park Ice Cream Shoppe, and more).