Yeah, yeah, I know you don’t want to know about Alabama.

Tough. I’m in exile up here, dammit, so until someone figures out how to get me and mine back to good ole F-L-A, you gets what you gets.

So, in no particular order, here are the things we’ve done personally:

U.S. Space and Rocket Center

We have an annual membership, and have used it several times. The kids love the simulators and rock-climbing wall, and even appreciate some of the static exhibits. That surprised me, they are only 6 and 9 years old. Good stuff. Also, this is where kids can attend Space Camp, something the 9-year old is lobbying for next summer.

Cathedral Caverns

So impressive. It’s just amazing to think of what forces of nature it took to create this massive cave system. Great place to go on a hot summer day, because it is a constant 60 degrees F in the cave year-round. We were all fascinated.

Burritt on the Mountain

The kids have been begging to go back to this one. They love the animals. The mansion is impressive, but it is the grounds that my wife and I enjoyed the most. Also, they have replica buildings of farmhouses and slave cabins from the 19^th century, so there is a “living history” feel to the place.

Sci-Quest Hands-on Science Center

“Hands-on” is the key, here. Nearly every single exhibit (and it felt like there were a hundred but it was probably only a couple dozen) is a learning experience for the kids (and Dad, too!). Everything from basic lessons in physics to some high-tech cool toys to play with.

Old MacDonald’s Petting Zoo

Good lord, the kids loved this place! Plenty of variety, but the most impressive thing was how clean the animals were and how well the proprietors cared for them. Every stall had clean, clear water, every animal had meat on their bones, and almost every animal was tame enough for the kids to pet. They beg to go back. It’s right on the way to Cathedral Caverns, so you can make a nice day of the trip.

Anyone from Alabama feel free to drop a note in comments about other places we ought to check out.

Yes, I’m assuming you can write. See? I’m getting better…