Reviewed by: Patience Itson
8 family-friendly outdoor activities—hiking, free workouts + more
Reading time: 5 minutes
Summer is the perfect time to get out and make memories with the whole family. Whether you’re looking to get active or planning a fun day out, Birmingham has plenty to explore.
Keep reading for our roundup of summer activities all ages will enjoy.
Bonus: If it’s too steamy out—or you’re more of an “indoor cat”—don’t miss these indoor activities and heat safety tips.
1. Walking + hiking trails near Birmingham
Looking for an easy way to get outdoors? A walk is a great place to start. Birmingham is home to several walking clubs where you can get active, meet new people and explore together.
Want to take it a step further? The Magic City also offers beautiful hiking trails, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker.
Here are a few of our recommendations:
Where to walk:
Where to hike:
- Moss Rock Preserve, 617 Preserve Way. Hoover, AL 35266
- Oak Mountain State Park, 200 Terrace Dr. Pelham, AL 35124
- Red Mountain Park, 2011 Frankfurt Dr. Birmingham, AL 35211
- Ruffner Mountain, 1214 81st St S, Birmingham, AL 35206
- Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, 3906 Turkey Creek Rd. Pinson, AL 35126
Looking for even more options? Check out our guide to Birmingham-area hiking trails for every experience level.
2. Try community sports in Birmingham
Get active and take up a new sport this summer with community sports.
Whether you prefer hitting the courts with a game of pickleball or tennis or going for a run, Birmingham has many options for staying active.
If you’re looking for a new hobby to stay active, check out these community sports for you to try in and around Birmingham.
3. Join free fitness classes at Railroad Park in Birmingham
Looking for ways to get active? Fill your calendar with free workout classes at Railroad Park, offered through Get Healthy on the Railroad thanks to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.
Now through October 31, 2026, you can get active with a variety of classes like boxing, aerobics, yoga, line dancing and more.
The classes are offered as a part of Get Healthy on the Railroad and are free, thanks to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.
Plus, classes are designed for all ages and experience levels which means anyone can join in on the fun!
4. Learn to row near Birmingham at Lake Purdy
Looking for a unique hobby to try this summer that doubles as a workout? Give rowing a try.
At Lake Purdy, you can learn the basics in a six-session class designed for beginners.
You’ll learn rowing terminology and techniques while spending time on the water with your crew.
Classes are available for adults ages 19 and up, and fill fast, so be sure to grab your spot!
Check out the Lake Purdy Rowing Association for class schedules and more details.
5. Enjoy family-friendly attractions in Birmingham
Looking for a family-friendly adventure? Head to the Birmingham Zoo or the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
From seeing incredible animals up close to wandering scenic walking paths, these outdoor destinations make it easy to spend quality time together while enjoying the beauty of nature.
For information on both options, check out the details below:
- Birmingham Zoo
- Location: 2630 Cahaba Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223
- Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 9AM–5PM
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Admission is FREE!)
- Location: 2612 Lane Park Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223
- Hours: Monday-Sunday 7AM–7PM
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
6. Visit a farmers market near Birmingham
Spend some time outdoors this summer while supporting local farmers and small businesses at a Birmingham-area farmers market.
From fresh produce and local honey to baked goods and handmade products, you’ll find plenty to browse while enjoying the fresh air.
Check out our list to 19 Greater Birmingham area farmers markets, then plan your next visit.
7. Learn how to garden in Birmingham
If you’re looking for a relaxing hobby that still gets you moving outdoors, give gardening a try.
Did you know you can take gardening classes at local garden and outdoor centers and botanical gardens?
Birmingham offers a variety of gardening classes and programs for different ages and experience levels, making it easy to start growing your skills this season.
Here are a few places we recommend:
- Aldridge Gardens, 3530 Lorna Rd, Hoover, AL 35216
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
8. Go bird-watching at Birmingham-area state parks
For a hobby that gets you up close with nature and wildlife, try bird watching!
You can visit and spot a wide variety of species at local gardens for guided bird walks and state parks to visit rehabilitated birds—both a great way to learn how to spot different birds from your own backyard.
Here where to visit:
- Aldridge Gardens, 3530 Lorna Rd, Hoover, AL 35216
- Alabama Wildlife Center at Oak Mountain State Park, 100 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
How will you and your family spend this summer outdoors in Birmingham? Share and tag us @bhamnow + let us know.
