Keep cool this summer with these 6 family friendly water activities near Birmingham

Lately, the weather has consistently been a disrespectful 90 degrees and up. It’s at the point now where I don’t even want to step outside if water isn’t involved. I’m sure I’m not alone.

Lucky for us, there are some water parks and activities near Birmingham for us to keep cool in this Alabama heat. Keep reading to see where to spend these hot summer days.

1. Flip Side Aqua Park at Oak Mountain

Flip Side Aqua Park is an inflatable water park located in Oak Mountain State Park. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try a nontraditional water park, then this is the one for you. Flip Side also offers kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals in case water parks just aren’t your thing.

• Address: 8195 John Findlay III Dr., Birmingham, AL 35242
• Hours: Sunday-Saturday 11AM-6PM
• Admission: $20 for first session | $15 for additional sessions | $300 Private Reservation (Up to 20 people)
• Restrictions: Minimum of 7 y/o | Minimum height 45 in. | Must be able to swim | Must fill out waiver
• Drive Time from Birmingham: Approximately 30 min
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

2. Point Mallard

Point Mallard Park is celebrating their 50th year anniversary this year, so why not take the family out and celebrate it with them. They even have half price days every Monday-Thursday (excluding holidays) from 10AM-6PM. Talk about a deal!

• Address: 2901 Point Mallard Dr SE, Decatur, AL 35601
• Hours: Sunday-Saturday 10AM-6PM
• Admission: Adults $20 | Youth $15 | Seniors $15 | Kids 4 and under are FREE
• Drive Time from Birmingham: Approximately 1.5 hours
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

3. Turkey Creek

If you’d prefer an escape into nature, Turkey Creek is the perfect outing for the family. Not only does the scenery make for a beautiful hike, but you’re also able to cool off in the water once you’re done.

• Address: 3906 Turkey Creek Road, Pinson, Alabama 35126
• Hours: Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday 9AM-5:30PM | Friday-Saturday 7AM-9AM (pedestrian only) and 9AM-5:30PM (pedestrian and motor vehicles)
• Admission: FREE, but donations are encouraged.
• Drive Time from Birmingham: Approximately 30 min
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

4. Splash Adventure Water Park

Splash Adventure is the first water park I ever visited growing up in Birmingham, and it’s only gotten bigger and better over time. Whether you want to relive childhood memories or start new family traditions, Splash Adventure has got you covered.

In addition, it doubles as a theme park. So once you and the fam are all dry, it’s time to head over and hop on the roller coasters.

• Address: 4599 Splash Adventure Parkway, Bessemer, AL 35022
• Hours: Check out their 2021 Summer Schedule to plan ahead.
• Admission: Adults and guests over 52″ $39.99 | Seniors 55+ and guests over 52″ $34.99 | Children 2 and under FREE
• Drive Time from Birmingham: 20-30 min
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

5. Spring Valley Beach

Spring Valley Beach is the ideal water park for a group trip. There are water activities for everyone, plus you’re able to rent a pavilion and take your own food from home to grill while you’re there.

I don’t know about y’all, but the idea of combining a BBQ with a water park outing sounds like a summer dream to me.

• Address: 2340 County Hwy 55 Blountsville, AL 35031
• Hours: Sunday-Saturday 10AM-6PM
• Admission: Age 2 up to 4ft tall $21 |Over 4ft & adults $26
• Drive Time from Birmingham: Approximately 1 hour
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

6. Water World

What better way to beat the heat than a trip down to Water World? Yes, it’s an actual place. No, you can’t live there permanently. They have attractions for all ages including a crystal clear wave pool, slides of all sizes, and even an area for kids to enjoy.

• Address: 401 Recreation Road Dothan, AL 36303
• Hours: Check our their 2021 Summer Schedule to plan ahead.
• Admission: 37″ to 50″ tall $14 | Over 50″ tall $16 | Under 37″ $2 | Seniors 60 + Above $2 | Half Price Nights: Tuesdays + Thursdays from 5-8pm | Military Discount: $3 off admission
• Drive Time from Birmingham: Approximately 3 hours
• Website | Facebook | Instagram