9 things to do this summer in Birmingham to stay cool but still have fun, including McWane Science Center
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Muggy. Steamy. Stifling. Brutal. Yep, summers in Birmingham are H.O.T. What can you do to make the sweaty days of summer more enjoyable? Check out these nine activities that will entertain you, while keeping you cool.
Grab a Show
For many kids, staying indoors on a summer day can sound pretty boring. But it doesn’t have to be! In fact, it won’t be when you take your child to the Birmingham Children’s Theatre.
Here, you and your child will be educated, enriched and entertained through the magic of professional theatre.
Check out the BCT’s summer show series. It’s a good one!
Make a Splash
Summer heat and water play go hand in hand. Instead of wishing you had a pool to keep cool, check out one of the fun splash pads around town. (Some are even free!)
For a full list of splash pads around Birmingham, find them here.
Grab a Cold Treat
There’s no sweeter treat during summer than a scoop or two of ice cream. Not only will it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it will help keep you cool during those hot summer days and nights.
Click here for all the top ice cream flavors being scooped up around Birmingham this summer!
Popsicles are another delicious frozen treats to consider this summer. And Birmingham has some incredible popsicle shops. Steel City Pops and Frios are always great choices!
Visit Turkey Creek Preserve
If you’re the outdoorsy type, but still want to stay cool, then head to the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, one of the best swimming holes in Alabama.
About a 20-minute drive from downtown Birmingham, you can get your nature fix by hitting one of the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve’s worthwhile trails, then head to flowing water for a refreshing dip.
Catch a Live Concert
There are tons of concerts that take place in Birmingham during the summer months. They can be really fun. But, they can also be really hot!
The best way to beat the heat and still enjoy great music is by taking your concert indoors. Check out Iron City and The Nick – two of the ‘hams top music venues for upcoming shows.
Sip a Cold Brew
There’s a thriving brewery scene in Birmingham with hot spots like Avondale, Trim Tab and the newest Back Forty.
On a muggy summer day or night, grab the gang and head to one of Birmingham’s local breweries for a chill night and a cold one.
Enjoy Some Culture
Parties, firework shows, festivals–summer activities can be pretty noisy. A trip to the Birmingham Art Museum could be exactly what you need to get some quiet and stay cool.
Housing 27,000 paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings, and decorative arts dating from ancient to modern times, you’ll have plenty of things to keep you entertained and out of the heat!
Discover Some Science
While others are melting outside in the summer heat, how about spending the afternoon at McWane Science Center?
Enjoy the air conditioning while you experience the wonder of science. Discover the Shark and Ray Touch Tank. Create mega bubbles in the Bubble Room. Or be amazed during an encounter with Alabama Dinosaurs. There’s always something to explore and learn at McWane!
While there, you can also hit the always-exciting IMAX Dome Theater. Featuring a five-story, 79ft. diameter tilted domed screen, the IMAX Dome image fills your entire field of vision and envelopes you in surround sound for a movie experience that can’t be matched.
Here’s what’s playing at the IMAX this summer.
Hit The Ice
The heat of summer can make you beg for a winter wonderland. What about the next best thing–an ice skating rink!
The Pelham Civic Complex is only a quick 20-minute skate south of Birmingham, and there’s a good chance you will even need to wear a jacket while you’re there. Brrr!
What’s your favorite place to go in Birmingham to keep cool during summer?
