History, Education, and Family Travel

We stayed at Hilton Home2 Suites Downtown Birmingham, Alabama, which we booked using points. The location was convenient to many of the city’s historic landmarks and family-friendly attractions. Having the extra space that Home2 Suites provides made it easier to reset after full days of exploring, especially when traveling with a child on the spectrum.

A Day Trip to Selma: Edmund Pettus Bridge

While in Birmingham, we drove to Selma to visit the Edmund Pettus Bridge. The drive is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Birmingham and is well worth the trip for families wanting to connect their travel to American history.

The bridge is the site of “Bloody Sunday,” which took place on March 7, 1965, when peaceful civil rights marchers were attacked by law enforcement while attempting to cross the bridge. The violence that occurred there led to national outrage and helped push forward the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Standing on that bridge is a powerful educational moment for both adults and children.

Understanding Birmingham’s Civil Rights History

Birmingham was once considered the most segregated city in the nation and was home to brutally racially motivated violence during the Civil Rights Movement. Visiting this city provides an opportunity to learn, reflect, and teach children about resilience and justice.

16th Street Baptist Church

We visited the 16th Street Baptist Church, one of the most significant sites of the Civil Rights Movement. On September 15, 1963, a white supremacist terrorist bombing killed four young Black girls: Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Wesley. The bombing shocked the nation and became a turning point in the movement for civil rights.

The church stands directly across from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and the surrounding area includes statues, memorials, and Kelly Ingram Park, which features powerful sculptures depicting scenes from the Civil Rights era. This area is walkable and filled with historical markers that help bring the events of the 1960s into focus.

Birmingham Zoo

We visited the Birmingham Zoo, and I recommend purchasing tickets online to avoid waiting in line. The zoo offers a wide range of exhibits and interactive experiences for children.

We fed the giraffes for an additional fee, which was a highlight for my son. For families with children who may become overstimulated, the zoo also offers a sensory room where kids can take a break in a calmer environment. That option alone makes a big difference when planning a day out.

McWane Science Center

The McWane Science Center is another great stop for families. There are hands-on exhibits, interactive learning stations, and multiple levels of exploration for children of different ages. There is also an IMAX theatre onsite, which can be a great experience if your child enjoys large screen presentations. Be mindful of sound levels and consider noise-reducing headphones if needed.

Sensory Friendly Things to Do in Birmingham

If you are traveling with a child on the spectrum, here are some sensory considerate options in Birmingham:

• Visit outdoor spaces like Railroad Park for open green space and room to move freely
• Explore Kelly Ingram Park at your own pace
• Take advantage of the sensory room at the Birmingham Zoo
• Visit McWane Science Center during non-peak weekday hours
• Choose hotel accommodations with kitchenettes for flexible meal times
• Plan visits early in the morning to avoid large crowds

Birmingham offers a balance of powerful history and family-centered attractions. With thoughtful planning, it can be both educational and manageable for families traveling with autistic children.

For more travel highlights and real-time experiences, follow on IG @autismspectrumadventures for highlights.