Birmingham Zoo, Birmingham (must see)

Opened in 1955, the Birmingham Zoo is a 122-acre zoological park located in Birmingham and remains one of the state’s most popular and beloved attractions. Home to more than 550 animals representing over 180 species from six continents, the zoo welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who come to see lions, giraffes, rhinos, elephants, red pandas, orangutans, zebras, and many more-including endangered and rare species.

The zoo’s origins trace back to a humble menagerie of animals kept at a Southside firehouse, with its most famous early resident being “Miss Fancy,” an elephant purchased from a struggling circus. As the collection grew, it moved from Magnolia Park to Avondale Park before plans were made for a permanent home-leading to the establishment of the current zoo.

In 1999, the Birmingham Zoo became an independent, not-for-profit organization. Since then, it has significantly expanded its facilities and offerings, including popular features like the Trails of Africa-a groundbreaking exhibit that focuses on the care and conservation of African elephants. This exhibit is especially notable for housing an all-male African elephant herd, setting a new standard for elephant management and education in the U.S.

Other highlights include the Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo, an exhibit dedicated to showcasing urban, rural, and wild environments found in Alabama. Visitors can also enjoy interactive areas like the lorikeet aviary and see exotic residents such as the Komodo dragon.

The Birmingham Zoo continues to grow as a leading destination for family-friendly learning, entertainment, and conservation awareness, making it a year-round adventure for visitors of all ages.