Blackburn, Amber Dvm

While getting to the Bama Flea Mall and Antique Center may be a bit of a drive (it is in Leeds, Alabama), it is most definitely worth the extra effort! There are over 400 dealers who offer their wares in a shopping area that stretches out over 57,000-square-feet. The market is open seven days a week and vendors are constantly bringing in old and new items on a daily basis. Find everything from guns, knives, collectibles, jewelry, sporting items, antiques and lots more.

The many aspects of science come to life in a truly fun and interactive way at Birmingham's McWane Science Center. Plenty of interactive exhibits encourage visitors to reach out and touch while offering a close-up view of some of the world's most fascinating scientific principles. The museum houses an amazing collection of dinosaur fossils, an aquarium filled with colorful fish, and a multi-tiered playground. And don't forget to check out a science-themed or Hollywood hit feature at the center's IMAX theater.

The Birmingham Festival Theatre has become synonymous with unforgettable performances. And that reputation has been duly earned, as the entertainment venue has hosted well over 200 productions that have involved more than 50 directors and nearly 1,000 actors and 500 crew people. Staggering numbers to be sure, but even more impressive is that an estimated 100,000 people have watched these various performances. If you are looking for something truly memorable, then make plans to take in a show at the Festival Theatre, where excellence is the only tradition that matters!

Nature lovers are not the type of people who can just admire natural beauty from afar—they enjoy getting as close as possible to various sites and areas in the great outdoors that attract their interest. One such place is Ruffner Mountain. This is a 1,000-acre nature preserve that is located just five miles from the center of Birmingham. This unique urban forest features 10 miles of hiking trails over ridgetops and through valleys that provide for stellar views of nature all along the way. The trail ends at a point that offers a spectacular view of the city. The forest not only features native plants and animals but also a small nature center with exhibits and a gift shop.