If you’re ready to get out of town for spring break but don’t want the hassle of airports and passports, you’re in luck. Birmingham is within driving distance of some really great family destinations — from wildlife adventures and aquariums to theme parks and charming small towns.
Whether you’re planning a quick overnight trip or a long weekend with the kids, these spring break trips from Birmingham are easy to reach and full of family fun.
OWA Parks and Resort – Foley, Alabama
If your family loves a trip with lots to do in one place, OWA in Foley is an easy spring break option. Located near Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, this entertainment district combines rides, restaurants, shopping, and seasonal events in one spot.
One of the biggest draws for families is Tropic Falls at OWA, an indoor/outdoor water park with slides, pools, and splash areas that make it a fun option even if the weather doesn’t fully cooperate. It’s a great way to build a spring break trip around water fun without needing a beach day.
Adjacent to Tropic Falls are the outdoor amusement park rides, including roller coasters, family rides, and attractions for younger kids. After a day in the park, families can head into Downtown OWA for food, shopping, and entertainment.
OWA is also a good spring break pick because there are several events happening throughout the season.
Spring Events at OWA
March 21 – RMHC Rubber Ducky Regatta — This fun community event features activities, games, and the main event: a rubber duck race across Lake OWA. Up to 10,000 rubber ducks race to the finish line, with prizes awarded to the first three ducks for their adopters.
April 26 – Gulf Coast Regional Mustang & Mega Car Show — This annual event brings a lineup of Mustangs and other show cars to Downtown OWA for a day of classic cars and family-friendly fun.
April 30, May 1, and May 2 – Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival — One of the area’s biggest spring events, this festival includes hot air balloon demonstrations, exhibits, entertainment, and activities.
Because OWA is so close to the coast, it’s also easy to turn the trip into a longer getaway with time in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach.
LaGrange, Georgia + Wild Animal Safari
About two hours from Birmingham, LaGrange, Georgia, makes a surprisingly fun and affordable family getaway.
One of the biggest attractions in the area is the Wild Animal Safari, a drive-through wildlife park located in nearby Pine Mountain where families can see animals like zebras, buffalo, camels, and deer roaming across hundreds of acres. Visitors explore the park in their own vehicles, which makes it a unique and memorable experience for kids.
Downtown LaGrange has a charming small-town feel with local shops, restaurants, and sweet treats. Families can also explore The Thread, a trail system that connects parks and attractions throughout the city.
Just minutes away you’ll also find Great Wolf Lodge, which offers a large indoor water park if you want to extend your stay.
Stone Mountain Park – Georgia
Located just outside Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park is a great destination for families who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and attractions.
Visitors can take the Summit Skyride to the top of the mountain, explore scenic hiking trails, or ride the historic scenic railroad around the park. The park frequently hosts seasonal events and family programming during the spring months.
Because it’s so close to Atlanta, many families combine Stone Mountain with other attractions in the city.
Atlanta Family Adventure (Georgia Aquarium and More)
Atlanta is packed with kid-friendly attractions, making it one of the easiest spring break trips from Birmingham.
The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the United States and home to thousands of marine animals including whale sharks, manta rays, sea lions, and more. The massive exhibits and interactive displays make it a favorite for families.
While you’re in the city, you can also visit:
- World of Coca-Cola — a fun, immersive museum for all ages
- Centennial Olympic Park — a beautiful outdoor gathering space in the heart of the city
- Zoo Atlanta — home to giant pandas and hundreds of animal species
- Children’s Museum of Atlanta — hands-on exhibits designed for younger kids
With several major attractions located close together, Atlanta makes a great weekend or multi-day trip.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
About three hours from Birmingham, Chattanooga is one of the best family road trips in the Southeast.
The Tennessee Aquarium is the city’s most popular attraction, featuring both river and ocean exhibits with interactive experiences for kids.
Families can also visit nearby attractions including:
- Lookout Mountain — stunning views and Civil War history
- Ruby Falls — an underground waterfall deep inside Lookout Mountain
- Rock City — a unique natural attraction with sweeping views of seven states
- The Chattanooga Riverwalk — a scenic path along the Tennessee River
Chattanooga offers a great mix of indoor attractions and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect spring break destination.
Dollywood – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
If you’re willing to drive a little farther, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge delivers a full theme park experience.
The park features roller coasters, family rides, live entertainment, crafts, and plenty of Southern food. Dollywood’s spring season often includes festivals and special entertainment that make the park especially lively during spring break.
The surrounding Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area also offers mountain coasters, mini golf, museums, and scenic drives through the Smoky Mountains
Huntsville, Alabama (U.S. Space & Rocket Center)
Just about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Birmingham, Huntsville makes a great spring break trip for families with curious, adventurous kids.
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is one of the top science attractions in the country and home to Space Camp. Kids can see real rockets, explore interactive exhibits, experience space simulators, and learn about NASA’s role in space exploration.
While you’re there, families can also visit:
- Monte Sano State Park — hiking trails and scenic overlooks
- Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment — food, art, and local makers
- MidCity District — restaurants and entertainment
It’s an easy overnight trip that feels completely different from Birmingham.
Callaway Gardens – Pine Mountain, Georgia
About 2.5 hours from Birmingham, Callaway Gardens is a beautiful destination for families who enjoy the outdoors.
Spring is one of the best times to visit because the gardens are in bloom and the property offers miles of trails, biking paths, and scenic spots to explore.
Families can visit:
- The Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center
- Robin Lake Beach
- Seasonal garden displays and trails
It’s a quieter getaway than a theme park but still full of things for kids to explore.
Where will Spring Break take you this year?
