Huntsville Alabama Vacation Guide: Things To Do in Huntsville
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Discover Huntsville, Alabama, with our Huntsville vacation guide—filled with family-friendly activities, space exploration adventures, and vibrant cultural experiences that make your trip to the Rocket City unforgettable.
About Huntsville, Alabama
In the 1950s Huntsville became the Silicon Valley of rocket science when Wernher von Braun and his team decided it was the perfect spot to turn dreams of space exploration into reality. "Rocket City" was born.
But Huntsville is not all about space-age marvels. In Huntsville's historic district Antebellum homes stand as silent storytellers, sharing tales of a bygone era.
Also home to a burgeoning culinary scene, from finger-lickin' barbecue joints to international delights, Huntsville's food scene is worthy of mention.
Huntsville it's a gateway to outdoor adventures. Beyond the city limits rolling hills and scenic trails invite you to trade city buzz for the soothing embrace of nature.
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Things to see and do in Huntsville, Alabama
These top attractions in Huntsville offer a mix of science, history, nature, and culture, making Huntsville an appealing destination for visitors and families with various interests.
U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults (Aged 13+), Kids (Aged 5-12) - $20, Kids 4 & under - FREE
This renowned space museum and educational center showcases the history of space exploration, featuring interactive exhibits, astronaut encounters, and the impressive Saturn V rocket. Visitors are drawn to its fascinating space-related displays and the chance to see actual spacecraft.
Read our full post about the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
Huntsville Botanical Garden
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $17 Adults, $15 Seniors (55+), $12 Kids (age 3-15), Free (age 2 and under)
Tourists can explore 112 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, including the Butterfly House and the seasonal Galaxy of Lights. The diverse plant life and peaceful ambiance make it a relaxing and visually appealing destination.
Monte Sano State Park
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This state park, located on Monte Sano Mountain, provides numerous hiking and biking trails with beautiful scenic views. There are options for both beginners and experienced hikers. The park also offers camping facilities.
Inside the park you will find the Wernher von Braun Planetarium. The planetarium is open for public viewing every saturday at 7:30pm. A small fee is charged for admission.
History lovers will enjoy a brief stop in the Civilian Conservation Corp Museum & Memorial. The small museum is free and celebrates the work and legacy of the workers who built much of the nation’s park infrastructure in the early and mid 20th century.
Burritt on the Mountain
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $12 Adults, $10 Military/Seniors (60+), $8 Kids, Free Kids (age 2 and under). Free Admission for NARM Members.
This historic park and mansion offers insight into Huntsville's past. Visitors can explore 19th-century homes, gardens, and a farm while taking in picturesque views of the city and the Tennessee Valley.
EarlyWorks Children's Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $12 Adults, $10 Kids (age 4-17), $10 Seniors (55+), $5 Kids (age 1-3)
Perfect for families, this interactive museum provides an engaging learning experience for kids with exhibits on Alabama history, early 1800s life, and a hands-on nature center.
Huntsville Museum of Art
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $12 Adults, $5 Kids (Ages 6-11), $5 Students, $10 Seniors (60+), $10 Military & Educators. Free Admission for NARM Members.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the museum's diverse collection of American, European, and regional art. It also hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
Big Spring Park
Map: Google Maps
Cost: Free
This scenic downtown park features a lagoon, walking paths, and events throughout the year. The paved trails, green space, and numerous benches make it a tranquil spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
The South's largest independent center for the arts offers visitors a chance to view and purchase local art, attend workshops, and enjoy live music and events. A seasonal Saturday outdoor market offers visitors a unique opportunity to purchase local foods and crafts from small businesses.
Campus 805
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A former middle school turned entertainment complex, Campus 805 houses breweries, restaurants, a speakeasy, a pinball arcade, axe throwing, and much more. It's a trendy spot for craft beer lovers and foodies and a perfect thing to do for couples in Huntsville.
Huntsville Ghost Walk
Website: Link
Cost: $13 Adults, $8 Kids (12 and under)
For those interested in the supernatural, the Ghost Walk explores Huntsville's haunted history, making for an entertaining and spooky experience.
Weeden House Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $10 Adults, $5 Kids (12 and under)
History buffs can visit the home of Maria Howard Weeden, a 19th-century poet and artist, to learn about her life and Huntsville's history. Twice daily one-hour tours are offered at 10am and 1pm. Self guided visits are not typically allowed.
Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour of Huntsville, Alabama
Tour Route: Downtown Huntsville Historic District
Duration: Approximately 2 hours, 1.5 miles
Big Spring Park
Begin your tour at Big Spring Park on the red bridge over the lagoon.
This scenic park was the original water source for the city and has been a gathering place for centuries. City founder John Hunt settled near the spring.
You are standing on the Japanese Friendship Bridge. This bridge and the nearby cherry trees were a gift from Japan in the 1960s. The park is home to a number of additional international gifts including a a beacon light and fog bell from Norway, a sundial from Germany, and a bench from the UK.
Walk along the water toward Church Street, cross at the crosswalk, and continue to follow the canal as it narrows. Turn right onto Madison Street. Turn left at Southside Square. Shortly before Franklin Street, find:
Harrison Brothers Hardware
This building, established in 1879, houses the Harrison Brothers Hardware store. It's one of the oldest operating hardware stores in the U.S. While the store is technically still a hardware store, the items inside include Arts and fine crafts, toys, books, housewares, season items, and gifts. The goods are displayed among the original shelves and fixtures of the 125+ year-old store. As you step up to pay you can delight as you’re rung up on the vintage 1907 cash register.
Exit the store and walk toward Franklin Street. Turn right and walk one block. Turn right onto Gates Avenue. On the right find the entrance to Constitution Hall Park.
Constitution Hall Park
This park is home to Constitution Hall, where Alabama's first constitution was drafted in 1819. The open air museum allows visitors to take a step into the past while exploring the restored 19th and early 20th century buildings. You will have the opportunity to visit a working blacksmith shop, see a printing press from the era, and explore a large collection of historic land survey tools.
Finally, at the Neal House, visitors can explore life as it was in 1819.
Walk back toward Franklin Street. Continue straight on Gates Avenue for one block until crossing Green Street. On the corner find the Weeden House.
The Weeden House Museum
Mentioned above, the Weeden House Museum is the former home of 19th-century poet and artist Maria Howard Weeden. The house features Victorian architecture and offers insights into her life and work. Timed tours at 10am and 1pm are the only way to see the interiors.
Exit the museum toward Green Street. Turn right onto Green Street and walk one block. Turn left onto Eustis Street. The Church of the Nativity is on the left.
Church of the Nativity
This Gothic Revival church, constructed in 1859, is a beautiful architectural gem. It's the oldest Episcopal church in Huntsville and a peaceful place to visit. A visit to the interior is best done by attending a worship service, though access may be available depending on the availability of church staff.
If you happen to be Visiting on a Thursday, make extra time for The Greene Street Market at Nativity. The market is open Thursday afternoons from early May to Late October. The market sells local foods, crafts, and various other treasures.
The tour continues as we feature some homes in the Twickenham Historic District. Please respect the private property of these homes and only enjoy them from the sidewalk.
Twickenham Historic District
The Twickenham Historic District is one of the largest antebellum districts in the South. As you walk admire the well-preserved 19th-century homes, gardens, and streets.
From the Church of the Nativity go back toward Green Street. Cross Green and continue one block on Eustis Avenue, then turn right onto Lincoln Street. On the left, just before Gates Avenue find the Cox House.
Cox House (Spite House)
This historic home was built in 1826 by Joshua Cox. It’s locally nicknamed the “spite house” because it was built to block the view of one of the largest homes in the area at the time, the Pope House (below). Legend has it that Cox and Pope were enemies and this act was a thumb in Pope’s eye from a vindictive Cox.
However, Pope had the last laugh. The title to the property was not clear and Pope was able to take the property from Cox. After Cox lost the fight to keep his home Pope moved his daughter into the house.
Continue on Lincoln Street. Turn left onto Williams Avenue then right onto Adams Street. On the left side of the street at the intersection with Cruse Alley find the Moore-Rhett House.
Moore-Rhett House
The original portion of this home was built in 1826. The home’s most famous resident, Lily Flagg, was a top butter-producing Jersey cow. During her prize-winning year, she produced 1047.75 oz of butter. Her fame was even celebrated at the Chicago World’s Fair.
Upon Lily’s triumphant return from the fair, homeowner General Samuel H. Moore hosted a party at the house in her honor. As part of the celebration, the home was painted a chalky butter yellow.
Trace your steps back to Williams Avenue. Take a few steps right on Echols Avenue to try to get a peep at the Pope House.
Pope House
It’s nearly impossible to see this behemoth home from the street, but it’s up there in all its glory. The brick mansion was built by Leroy Pope, the “Father of Huntsville,” in 1814.
One of the first guests at the home was then-future president General Andrew Jackson. During the Civil War, the home was used as a hospital.
Turn back on Echols Avenue as it turns back into Williams Avenue. On the left at the intersection with Green Street see the Lowe House.
Lowe House
Built from 1901-1902 to replace an older home on the property, the Lowe House was a longtime home to Jane Knight Lowe. Mrs. Lowe was a local philanthropist and one of Huntsville’s most charitable and civic-minded leaders. Upon her death in 1997, the home was gifted to the University of Alabama-Huntsville. It continues to serve as the residence for the university’s president and a location for university events.
Continue back on Williams Avenue for about five blocks ending at the Huntsville Museum of Art and Big Spring Park. The Japanese bridge where the tour started is just across the park.
Best Shopping in Huntsville, Alabama
Huntsville, Alabama offers a variety of interesting places to shop. The diverse shopping scene caters to a variety of interests and tastes. Whether you're looking for fashion, art, antiques, or local goods, you're likely to find something that piques your interest.
Bridge Street Town Centre
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This outdoor lifestyle center features a wide range of shops, from high-end boutiques to well-known retailers. It's also a great place for dining and entertainment. The central pond and walking trail is a great place to take an evening stroll before dinner.
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
As mentioned above, Lowe Mille is the South's largest independent center for the arts and is home to over 200 working artists, studios, and galleries. You can purchase art, jewelry, and crafts directly from the creators.
University Pickers
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This antique mall is a treasure trove of vintage items, antiques, and collectibles. Home to as many as 115 independent vendors; it's a great place for nostalgia and unique finds.
Clinton Row
Map: Google Maps
Clinton Row is a collection of over 30 unique shops in a historic restored building setting. Options include apparel, gifts, vintage goods, fine art, and more. The ever-changing array of shops and services will delight you as you shop locally and support independent retailers.
Railroad Station Antiques
Map: Google Maps
Spread over three floors this massive antique mall is a great place to find all sorts of secondhand and unique items. Their collection of reasonably priced vintage furniture is worthy of mention.
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Best Restaurants in Huntsville, Alabama
Huntsville is home to plenty of great dining choices. These restaurants offer a range of options to suit various tastes and budgets while experiencing Huntsville's culinary scene.
Fine Dining (Higher Price Range):
Cotton Row Restaurant
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Known for its Southern-inspired dishes, this upscale restaurant in a historic building offers a sophisticated dining experience. The elegant restaurant is housed in a building built in 1821. This restaurant and its partner Commerce Kitchen (below) are the vision of Executive Chef James Boyce.
Commerce Kitchen
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This second restaurant is also from local restaurant entrepreneur and Executive Chef James Boyce. Serving contemporary American cuisine in a refined setting, it's perfect for special occasions.
Mid-Range Dining:
Pane e Vino Pizzeria
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This final spot in the local restaurant empire of Chef James Boyce, Pane e Vino is a popular spot for Italian food with a diverse menu. Choices include pizza, pasta, and authentic Italian dishes.
Mason Dixon Bakery & Bistro
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A delightful choice for those with dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free and dairy-free options along with a delicious menu. Features include burgers, sandwiches, salads, and a delightful array of pastries.
Phuket Thai Restaurant
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy setting, known for its flavorful dishes and friendly service. Chef Tukky has been voted one of the area’s best chefs. She is also certified by the Government of Thailand as a masterful Thai Cuisine Chef.
Casual Dining (Lower Price Range)
Sam & Greg's Pizzeria, Gelateria
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A family-friendly spot for wood-fired pizza, homemade gelato, and a fun atmosphere. The two locations are locally owned and operated.
Hildegard's German Cuisine
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
If you're craving authentic German food, this cozy spot serves up delicious schnitzel, sausages, and more. As you may expect from a German restaurant they also have an impressive selection of imported and domestic beer.
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Best Camping Near Huntsville, Alabama
Huntsville and its surrounding areas offer a variety of camping options, from state parks to private campgrounds. Here are some popular camping destinations near Huntsville.
Monte Sano State Park
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Located just east of Huntsville, Monte Sano State Park offers camping facilities with both improved and primitive campsites. The park also provides numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic overlooks.
Joe Wheeler State Park
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Situated along the Tennessee River, Joe Wheeler State Park provides a range of camping options, including improved campsites, primitive camping, and RV sites. The park offers water activities such as boating and fishing.
Bankhead National Forest
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A bit farther from Huntsville, Bankhead National Forest features two popular areas, Corinth and Clear Creek Campgrounds. Clear Creek is a popular spot within the forest for camping, hiking, and water activities.
Ditto Landing
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Located along the Tennessee River, Ditto Landing offers both RV and seasonal tent camping sites. It's a great spot for those interested in water-based activities like boating and fishing.
Lake Guntersville State Park
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
While a bit farther away, Lake Guntersville State Park is worth considering. It's situated on the shores of Lake Guntersville and offers camping options along with a range of recreational activities.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Huntsville or Alabama!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Best Outdoor Activities in Huntsville
Huntsville offers a variety of outdoor experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the best outdoor activities in and around Huntsville.
Monte Sano State Park
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Mentioned above, this state park will delight outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping amidst the natural beauty of Monte Sano Mountain. The panoramic views of Huntsville from the overlooks are a major draw.
Land Trust of North Alabama
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Old Railroad Bed Trail: Free Audio Tour
Three Caves Loop: AllTrails
The Land Trust manages several preserves with over 22 miles of hiking trails in the Huntsville area. The Old Railroad Bed Trail is a popular hiking choice. The trail follows the about (2 mile) former railway line over stone bridges and past waterfalls. Also fun is the Three Caves Loop, with a view of a former limestone quarry.
Ditto Landing
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This marina along the Tennessee River offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking. It's a scenic spot to enjoy water-based activities and the natural beauty of the river.
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Just a short drive from Huntsville, the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It's a critical stopover for migratory birds and offers wildlife observation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails and a newly opened visitors center.
Madison County Nature Trail at Green Mountain
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Located on Green Mountain, this nature trail offers a peaceful escape. The 1.5 mile hiking trail around Sky Lake is a favorite. The trail is known for its tranquility and is suitable for all skill levels. Be sure to gaze at the beloved Winged Elm Tree, the state’s oldest and snap a selfie under the covered bridge.
Cycling on the Greenways
Huntsville has a network of greenways for cyclists and pedestrians. The Indian Creek Greenway and Aldridge Creek Greenway are popular for biking, walking, and running. Huntsville Outdoors has a comprehensive Greenway Guide.
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Seasonal Activities in Huntsville
Home to several annual events, festivals, and celebrations that appeal to both locals and tourists Huntsville has plenty to do in any season.
Panoply Arts Festival
Website: Link
Event: Typically Late April
Held in Big Spring International Park, Panoply Arts Festival is one of the Southeast's premier arts festivals. It features a variety of visual and performing arts, live music, and interactive activities for all ages.
WhistleStop Weekend
Website: Link
Event: Late October
This barbecue and music festival takes place at the Historic Huntsville Depot and Roundhouse. It showcases professional and amateur barbecue competitions, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Huntsville Restaurant Week
Website: Link
Event: August
Foodies visiting Huntsville should check out Huntsville Restaurant Week, during which local restaurants offer special menus and deals, allowing visitors to explore the city's culinary scene.
Concerts in the Park
Website: Link
Event: Summer
A summer tradition in Huntsville, Concerts in the Park is a free, family-friendly concert series held in Big Spring International Park. Attendees can bring picnic dinners and enjoy live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Downtown Street Food Gatherings
Website: Link
Event: May-October; 3rd Friday of the Month
These events bring together Huntsville's vibrant food truck scene. Visitors can sample a variety of cuisines from local food trucks while enjoying live music and a lively atmosphere.
Monte Sano Art Festival
Website: Link
Event: Late September
Taking place in Monte Sano State Park, this art festival features a juried selection of artists showcasing their work in a picturesque outdoor setting.
Huntsville Comic and Pop Culture Expo
Website: Link
Event: April
Comic book enthusiasts, gamers, and pop culture fans gather for this expo, featuring celebrity guests, cosplay competitions, gaming tournaments, and vendor booths.
Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic
Website: Link
Event: May
Held in Decatur, just a short drive from Huntsville, the Alabama Jubilee is a hot air balloon festival featuring colorful balloons filling the sky. The event includes balloon races, a car show, and live entertainment. The event is free.
Christkindlmarket
Website: Link
Event: December
This new event brings the tradition of European Christmas markets to Huntsville. Visitors will enjoy local art, unique shopping opportunities, and a variety of holiday inspired activities.
