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Civil Rights Institute tells Birmingham s story of its part in the nation s struggle for civil rights through displays, multi- media presentations, music and storytelling. The Institute is located across the street from the legendary Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, the site of the tragic bombing in 1963. Also in the Civil Rights District is Kelly Ingram Park, an assembly point for marches, demonstrations, rallies and prayer services dur- ing the Civil Rights Movement, and the historic Carver Theatre, home of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. The Civil Rights Movement really is a proud part of Alabama s history. The presenta- tion is outstanding. Linda V.

Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd 205-879-0409 birminghamzoo.com MOUNTAIN BROOK

Approximately 750 animals of 250 different species make their home at the Birmingham Zoo, including members of endangered species from six different continents. In 2011, the Zoo opened the Trails of Africa exhibit, featuring a herd of bull elephants and other African animals in a beautifully accurate natural setting.

The Birmingham Zoo is a really nice and interesting place to take the kids. Liza M.

Cahaba River 2717 7th Ave S 205-322-5326 cahabariversociety.org Flowing through portions of eight Alabama counties, the Cahaba River is the longest free-flowing river in the state. With 131 different fish species, it s a world champion of fish diversity. Serving as a refuge for numerous rare and endangered species of plants, mollusks and fish, the river is most famed for its enchanting show of Cahaba lilies which bloom between early May and late June. Contact the Cahaba River Society for infor- mation and guided boat tours. It s amazing to have a beautiful, natural river 15 minutes from downtown. A wonderful new walking trail along the river is a location great for swimming, wad- ing and boating. Beth S.

Highland Park Golf Course 3300 Highland Ave 205-322-1902 highlandparkgolf.com BIRMINGHAM

Highland Park Golf Course is a favorite spot among Birming- ham residents and visitors. Located minutes from down-

town in the beautiful Highland Park neighborhood, the 18-hole layout, city views, bentgrass greens and reasonable rates all add up to a golf experience unlike any other in Alabama. Short course but target golf. Long Fescue roughs give it a European links flavor. The 16th green has a great view of downtown. Mark J.

McWane Science Center 200 19th St N 205-714-8300 mcwane.org BIRMINGHAM

State-of-the-art science center, aquarium and IMAX Dome Theater located in the heart of downtown Birmingham in the historic and refurbished Loveman s department store building. Featuring four floors of interactive, hands-on exhibits, and a gift shop so chock full of really cool stuff, they named it Really Cool Stuff. McWane Science Center is the coolest spot in town, for kids AND adults. I would buy a membership even if I didn't have children. Cary S.

Moss Rock Preserve 4335 Village Green Cir 205-739-7141 HOOVER

Just a stone s throw from a bus- tling community is this beautiful

INSIDER TIP In October, Barber Motorsports Park & Museum hosts The Vintage Festival, a favorite event of Motorcycle enthusiasts.