Dog Days of Birmingham

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.

Birmingham's Brunswick Zone is everyone's favorite place to bowl and enjoy some great family fun and recreation. The modern facility features 40 lanes, 2 billiard tables, various arcade games, a lounge, a snack bar and even a pro shop. Various special events and promotions are scheduled regularly, so make sure to check their website for deals that will absolutely bowl you over!

Birmingham's Starz Karaoke Lounge offers a little something for everyone. This unique nightlife venue combines the fun and off-key hilarity of a karaoke bar in one section while offering a trendy club area perfect for dancing and mingling. Since you can sing, dance or just chill, Starz is the perfect destination when you're out with a big group of friends and everyone wants to experience something different---find it all under one roof at Starz!

The stories, the struggles and the triumphs of the people who lived through the era of segregation in Birmingham are all respectfully remembered at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. The galleries in this impressive facility are filled with multimedia exhibits and attractions that vividly tell the story of the Civil Rights Movement both in Birmingham and other cities. This museum is also a research facility that focuses on human rights issues and presents various programs and seminars on a regular basis.