My dad takes our children on field trips from time to time. He took them to the Harmony Park Safari in September of 2007.  It is a federally licensed nature preserve of free-ranging and exotic animals where you can just drive through and see the animals. You can find them at: Harmony Park Safari; 431 Cloud's Cove Road; Huntsville, AL  35803; 1-877-726-4625; Admission: $6.00. You may also buy a cup of feed to feed the animals as you drive a long. 

We were able to visit Clarkson Covered Bridge Park sometime in December.  This is where one of Alabama's largest covered truss bridges, a grist mill, and a dog trot cabin can be found.  It is also the site of the 1863 Battle of Hog Mountain. You can find it at: Clarkson Covered Bridge Park; 2898 Highway 278; Cullman, AL  35056; (256) 734-3369; Admission: FREE; www.cullmancountyparks.com/clarkson.htm