Reviewed by: Patience Itson
9 ways to stay inside + have fun around Birmingham this summer—ice skating + more
Reading time: 4 minutes
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I’m not the first (and I won’t be the last) to tell you—it’s hot.
Birmingham is a beautiful city full of indoor and outdoor experiences and right now, we’re all in need of the A/C.
Check out nine ways to beat the heat in the Magic City this summer, from ice skating to supporting local theatres and everything in between.
1. Support a local library or bookstore
My favorite way to beat the heat is roaming bookstores.
The Birmingham Public Library system is home to 19 branches, giving you countless books to scope out.
Plus, the Magic City literary scene is strong with many local bookstores.
2. See a show
Another great way to take your mind off the high temps is to watch a feel-good show.
Catch a movie at the eccentric Sidewalk Film Center, McWane Science Center’s IMAX Dome Theater or support local talent at a Birmingham theatre.
3. Join a gym
I know, getting all sweaty in this heat is probably the last thing on your mind.
But Birmingham is home to plenty of gyms with each one more unique than the last.
Join your local YMCA—with classes, weights and a pool—or discover one of the awesome workout classes around town.
4. Go ice skating!
There’s no better way to avoid the sizzling sun than with ice.
Pelham Civic Complex hosts public skating six days a week, and it’s the perfect way to cool off and make lasting memories.
- Location: 500 Amphitheater Road Pelham, AL 35124
- Cost: $10 admission | $3 skate rentals
- Public skate calendar
5. Roam around a Birmingham museum
From the enlightening Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to the historic Southern Museum of Flight, there are plenty of museums around town to immerse yourself in Birmingham’s culture.
Check out a few of our favorites, and let us know what you learn!
6. Have some friendly competition at a bowling alley
I always forget how much fun bowling is until I’m tied with one of my friends and we’re battling it out for first place.
Here are a few bowling alleys to indulge in some friendly competition:
- Brunswick Bowling
- Oak Mountain Lanes
- Vestavia Bowl
7. Let the good times roll at a roller skating rink
Get in some good (and cool) exercise while immersing yourself in classic, retro vibes. Head to a local roller skating rink where it’s nice and air-conditioned.
8. Get crafty
Find a new hobby or show off your skills in a class around Birmingham. From knitting to learning a new language, we’ve got it all.
Here are a few classes you can get crafty in:
9. Grab a sweet treat
In this heat, you deserve something sweet to cool you off.
Luckily, The Magic City has no shortage of awesome local spots serving delicious and fresh beverages, ice cream and more. Check out a few of our favorites.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has more ways to help you stay cool, active and safe this summer. Here are a few of their tips.
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