10 memorable Alabama experiences to give as last-minute Christmas gifts

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Get up close and personal with giraffes at Alabama Safari Park in Hope Hull. (Audrey Kent / The Bama Buzz)

Christmas is quickly approaching, and sometimes the best gifts are experiences. Luckily, Alabama has plenty!

Keep reading to discover ten fun and unique Alabama experiences to give as last-minute Christmas gifts.

1. U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville

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The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is an Alabama staple. (Hville Blast)

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center offers an out-of-this-world experience for science and space lovers.

With interactive exhibits, a planetarium and incredible artifacts like the Saturn V rocket, this is the perfect gift for anyone curious about space exploration.

2. Spelunking in Alabama’s many caves

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Rickwood Caverns” by MGShelton is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Cave spelunking in Alabama offers an exciting adventure for enthusiasts of all levels, as the state is home to some of the most spectacular and diverse cave systems in the United States.

Alabama boasts over 4,000 caves, with the most notable being in the central and northern regions.

Locations like Rickwood Caverns, DeSoto Caverns and Sequoyah Caverns provide guided tours through stunning limestone formations, underground streams and unique speleological features.

Spelunking is a great gift for those wanting to experience the state’s rich natural beauty while discovering its hidden underground world.

3. Alabama Safari Park in Hope Hull

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Alabama Safari park is an exciting animal experience. (Audrey Kent / The Bama Buzz)

Alabama Safari Park is a drive-through wildlife park that offers an up-close experience with over 700 animals from around the world.

Visitors can drive through the park and observe exotic species while feeding them from their vehicles.

The park also features a walk-through area with animal encounters and a petting zoo.

It’s a unique gift for animal lovers and those seeking an exciting outdoor activity.

4. Boat tours in Gulf Shores + Orange Beach

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Sunset at Orange Beach, AL” by jody.claborn is licensed under CC PDM 1.0

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the perfect spots for an unforgettable sailing trip.

Whether you’re looking to relax or add some adventure, it’s an awesome way to soak in the stunning beauty of Alabama’s coastline.

Who wouldn’t love the idea of turquoise waters, dolphin sightings and views of beautiful white sand beaches?

5. Alabama Shakespeare Festival in Montgomery membership

Weekend Show
Have you seen a Alabama Shakespeare Festival show recently? (Ann Little)

A membership to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival makes a wonderful gift for theater lovers and culture enthusiasts.

With exclusive benefits like early access to tickets, discounts on performances and invitations to special events, a membership enhances the theater experience. It also provides access to a year-round calendar of world-class productions, including Shakespeare plays, contemporary works and exciting new productions.

6. Barber Motorsports Park in Leeds + Porsche experience

Barber Vintage Festival 2021 7 Alabama, Mobile
Motorsport enthusiasts will love Barber Motorsports Park. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Barber Motorsports Park is a world-class motorsports facility known for its beautiful landscapes and thrilling races.

The park features a 2.38-mile road course that hosts major events such as the IndyCar Series and MotoAmerica.

In addition to the racing action, Barber Motorsports Park is home to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of vintage motorcycles and cars.

The Porsche Experience offers an exhilarating opportunity to test the performance of Porsche’s iconic vehicles through a series of expertly designed courses and challenges.

Whether it’s high-speed laps on the track or precision driving exercises in a controlled environment, the Porsche Experience at Barber Motorsports Park provides thrilling moments for drivers of all skill levels.

7. Birmingham Zoo in Birmingham membership

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See lions + more at Birmingham Zoo. (Bham Now)

The Birmingham Zoo features over 200 species of animals from around the world.

Visitors can explore diverse exhibits and engage in interactive experiences like feeding giraffes or riding the carousel. The zoo also focuses on conservation and education.

Whether you gift a one-time ticket or a membership, it’s sure to be a hit at Christmas.

8. Historic + vibrant Trolly Tour in Mobile

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Saenger Theatre in Mobile. (Liv George / The Bama Buzz)

Check out Mobile in comfort aboard a climate-controlled trolley on a 90-minute guided tour.

Explore the birthplace of Mardi Gras with its mossy streets, historic buildings and one of the country’s most diverse ecosystems.

Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy museums, parks, fountains, music, food and so much more.

It’s the perfect gift for history buffs, food lovers and anyone who loves discovering new things!

9. Hire a private Alabama chef

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2006 September – Chef de parti – Shoot” by jenschapter3 is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Hiring a private chef makes a unique and thoughtful gift.

Whether for a special celebration, intimate dinner or simply to enjoy a gourmet meal at home, a private chef tailors the menu to the recipient’s tastes and dietary preferences.

10. Memberships to Alabama’s many state parks

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Alabama has many parks showcasing our state’s beauty. (Bham Now)

Alabama is home to 21 stunning state parks, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

A year long membership to any of these parks is a thoughtful gift that will keep your nature-loving friends and family enriched throughout 2025.

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Audrey Kent
Audrey Kent
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