BY: Savanna Pruitt
It’s warming up outside, and we’re all itching to get out and start having fun again. Although vaccinations are rolling out and COVID-19 safety mandates are being relaxed across the country, the general consensus is that we should continue to wear face masks where appropriate, practice social distancing and avoid unnecessary travel, especially outside of our respective states and countries.
Fortunately, there are tons of exciting things you can do within a one-hour radius of Montgomery while still staying safe and healthy. Here’s a list of four COVID-friendly day trips.
1. Alabama Nature Center– Millbrook, Ala.
- Distance from Montgomery: 10 miles; 13-15 minutes
- Hours: Monday- Saturday, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
- Cost: $5 for persons over 4
If you love the outdoors, you’re going to have a great time at the Alabama Nature Center (ANC). This facility serves as the headquarters of the Alabama Wildlife Federation (AWF), the oldest and largest non-profit nature conservation organization in Alabama. Due to COVID-19, most of the buildings on the property are closed, but the trail systems are still open for the public to enjoy. There are five miles of boardwalks and trails that cover 350 acres of forests, fields, streams, wetlands, and ponds. ANC is the perfect place for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to explore our area’s terrain and biodiversity.
2. Jackson Lake Island– Millbrook, Ala.
- Distance from Montgomery: 9 miles; 17-20 minutes
- Hours: Daily, 8 a.m.- 7 p.m.
- Cost: $5 per day for persons over 10
If you’re a nerd for all things movie-related, you’ll love Jackson Lake Island. Remnants of the fictional town of Spectre, featured in Tim Burton’s “Big Fish,” can be found here. Plus, there are tons of cute goats that live on the island who love to see visitors. Even if you aren’t into checking out the old movie set, there’s plenty to do around the island. Bring a small group of friends or family members for a fun day of fishing, canoeing, or just enjoying nature. If you want to extend your stay, overnight camping space is available.
3. Alabama Safari Park– Hope Hull, Ala.
- Distance from Montgomery: 18 miles; 20-30 minutes
- Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Last admission at 4 p.m.
- Cost: $21.95 for persons 13-64; $3 off admission prices Monday- Friday
If you’re an animal lover, you have to check out Alabama Safari Park. You can drive your own car along a three-mile path that cuts through 350 acres filled with free-roaming animals like llamas, emus, and more. You’re even allowed to roll down your windows and feed the animals special grain pellets that can be purchased in the gift shop. Things can get a little messy and slobbery, but it’s so much fun and there are so many opportunities to take cool photos. Once you’re done with your drive-through safari, extend your stay at the park by visiting their free-flight aviary and feeding the budgies. You can also feed the giraffes from an observation deck if you’re feeling really adventurous. If you’re a fan of smaller animals, there’s a great petting zoo with adorable goats and pigs. The Alabama Safari Park experience is well worth the trip.
4. Chewacla State Park– Auburn, Ala.
- Distance from Montgomery: 44 miles; 45 minutes- 1 hour
- Hours: Daily, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.
- Cost: Individuals 12 to 61 are $4.00 per person
If you have a bit more time on your hands and really want to spend all day outside of Montgomery, Chewacla State Park in Auburn is a great option. This park covers nearly 700 acres of scenic property and is filled with tons of activities, so you’re bound to find something you like to do there. There’s a beautiful 26-acre lake where you can swim, fish, and even kayak or canoe. If you don’t have your own boat, you can call ahead to ask about renting one for a few hours.