Aniceia Almeida

If the idea of going on an actual safari doesn't quite fit into your schedule or your budget, then a trip to the Birmingham Zoo is the next best thing. This incredible zoo features over 1,000 animals and birds all presented in their meticulously recreated habitats and attractions. In addition to giraffes, lions, monkeys and hippos, the facility features a variety of special exhibitions as well as special presentations designed especially for the kids.

Venture out into wide open spaces when you make plans to spend some quality time outdoors at Oak Mountain State Park. The popular attraction is the state's largest park and offers plenty for the nature lover to enjoy. In addition to offering some of the finest mountain bike trails in the country, you'll also find vacation cottages, golf, improved camping, picnicking, tennis, swimming, hiking, backpacking and horseback riding facilities. The park is also the home of the Alabama Wildlife Center.

The grooves are still spinning at Charlemagne Record Exchange in Birmingham. The staff gets kudos for not only being extremely knowledgeable, but they are uproariously funny and always try to help you find what you're looking for. And there is plenty of vinyl through which you can rummage. Various LPs and 45s are stocked, and you will want to flip though them all—you never know what you will find. If you select a few discs that you would like to preview, the listening station complete with a turntable and headphones will allow you spin it before you take it home!