Huntsville is a city that has something for everyone, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts to families with young children. With a variety of attractions and activities, Huntsville is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. It’s known as the “Rocket City” because of its roots and contributions to NASA’s space programs over the years.
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We lived in Huntsville, Alabama for five years and loved how much there is to do within the area. The weather is fairly moderate year round, with a short winter season and hot weather during the summer.
Why Visit Huntsville?
One of the main draws of Huntsville is its rich history. The city played an important role in the development of the U.S. space program, and there are several historical attractions that showcase this legacy. But Huntsville’s history goes back even further than that, with important Civil War sites and museums that tell the story of the region’s past. Whether you’re a history buff or just interested in learning more about the area, Huntsville has plenty of opportunities to explore the past.
Another highlight of Huntsville is its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains to the sparkling waters of the Tennessee River. Whether you prefer hiking, fishing, or just taking in the view, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in and around Huntsville. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Huntsville is such a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
Huntsville, Alabama Highlights
- Huntsville, Alabama is a diverse city with something for everyone, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts to families with young children.
- The city’s rich history is showcased through a variety of historical attractions, including important Civil War sites and museums that tell the story of the region’s past.
- Huntsville’s natural beauty is another highlight, with stunning landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Historical Attractions
Huntsville, Alabama is a city steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical attractions to explore. Here are some of the top options to consider:
U.S. Space and Rocket Center
The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in space exploration and history. As the Earth’s largest space museum, it features a wide range of exhibits and artifacts related to the American space program, including the Saturn V rocket, the Apollo 16 command module, and much more. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits, simulators, and other hands-on activities.
It’s also home to Space Camp, a one of a kind week-long camp experience that children interested in STEM attend from all over the country and world. The programs offered include the flagship Space Camp program, dedicated to learning more about space exploration, and there are also programs for aviation, robotics, and cyber technology as well.
Alabama Constitution Hall Park
Alabama Constitution Hall Park is a historic site that played a key role in the state’s early history. The park is home to the Constitution Hall Museum, which features exhibits on the drafting of Alabama’s constitution and the state’s early history.
Visitors can also explore the park’s beautiful grounds, which include a replica of the state’s first capitol building. It is located in downtown Huntsville.
Twickenham Historic District
The Twickenham Historic District is a beautiful neighborhood that features some of Huntsville’s oldest and most historic homes. Visitors can take a walking tour of the area to see homes dating back to the early 19th century, including the Weeden House Museum.
This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Maria Howard Weeden, a Huntsville native who became famous for her paintings and poetry.
Weeden House Museum
The Weeden House Museum is a historic home that has been restored to its original 19th-century appearance. The home belonged to the Weeden family, and it served as a gathering place for many of Huntsville’s most prominent citizens.
Today, visitors can tour the home and see the family’s original furnishings, as well as exhibits on the history of Huntsville and the Weeden family’s contributions to the community.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
If you’re looking for a break from the city life, Huntsville has plenty of options for outdoor activities and nature exploration. Here are three popular spots to check out:
Huntsville Botanical Garden
The Huntsville Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis with over 100 acres of gardens, nature trails, and exhibits. You can stroll through the serene Japanese Garden, explore the colorful Butterfly House, or check out the aquatic plants in the Aquatic Garden.
There’s also a Native Plants Teaching Garden, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna. The garden hosts events throughout the year, including plant sales, concerts, and holiday light displays. Bring a swimsuit, because the children’s play area has water features are perfect when the weather is warm for kids to play and enjoy the surroundings.
Monte Sano State Park
Monte Sano State Park is a nature lover’s paradise with over 2,100 acres of hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites. The park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
You can also fish in the park’s 14-acre lake, or visit the Wildlife Sanctuary to see native animals like deer, foxes, and birds. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the park has cabins, campsites, and a lodge.
Madison County Nature Trail
The Madison County Nature Trail is a scenic drive through the mountains with plenty of opportunities for hiking and picnicking. The trail starts at Green Mountain, where you can hike to the top for panoramic views of the valley.
The trail also passes through the Madison County Nature Trail Wildflower Garden, where you can see a variety of native plants and flowers. There are also some areas to explore like an old log cabin and wood covered bridge.
Arts and Culture
If you are looking for a dose of arts and culture in Huntsville, Alabama, you won’t be disappointed. The city boasts a vibrant arts scene, with plenty of opportunities to explore and appreciate various forms of art.
Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment
Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment is a must-visit destination for art lovers. This historic textile mill has been transformed into a center for arts and entertainment, featuring over 200 working artists, makers, and performers.
You can explore the studios and galleries, watch artists at work, and purchase unique handmade items. The facility also hosts events and workshops throughout the year, including exhibitions, concerts, and classes.
Huntsville Museum of Art
The Huntsville Museum of Art is another great place to experience art and culture in Huntsville. The museum features an impressive collection of American art, including works by renowned artists such as John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, and Georgia O’Keeffe.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing a variety of styles and mediums. In addition to its art exhibits, the museum also offers educational programs, events, and lectures.
Family and Educational Experiences
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities that are both fun and educational, Huntsville has plenty to offer. Here are two great options to consider:
Burritt on the Mountain
Burritt on the Mountain is a living history museum that offers a glimpse into life in the 1800s. The museum’s centerpiece is the Burritt Mansion, a beautiful antebellum home that has been restored to its former glory. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion, which is filled with period furnishings and artwork.
In addition to the mansion, Burritt on the Mountain also features a children’s garden, where kids can explore and learn about plants and nature. There are live animals you can visit and a variety of interactive exhibits that are designed to be both fun and educational.
EarlyWorks Children’s Museum
EarlyWorks Children’s Museum in Huntsville, Alabama is a hands-on museum designed for children to explore and learn through interactive exhibits and activities. It features a variety of educational exhibits focused on history, science, and early childhood development.
The museum aims to provide a fun and engaging environment for children to play and discover while also promoting learning and creativity. Best suited for preschoolers through grade school ages, there is plenty to keep you busy here for a number of hours!
Shopping and Leisure
If you’re looking for a mix of shopping and entertainment, Huntsville has plenty of options for you to explore. Here are a couple of places you might want to check out:
Stovehouse
A newer addition to Huntsville, Stovehouse is located in a century-old factory building that has been repurposed to house restaurants and entertainment. It is a lively venue that is popular on the weekends for locals and is a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the atmosphere.
Our girls love going here to grab a crepe and they also have excellent options for Mediterranean food, barbecue, and ramen!
Bridge Street Town Centre
For a modern shopping experience, head to Bridge Street Town Centre. This outdoor mall has a wide variety of stores, from high-end fashion to books and home goods. There are also plenty of dining options, a movie theater, and even a carousel for the kids.
The atmosphere is lively and upbeat, and there’s always something going on, whether it’s a live music performance or a seasonal event.
Campus 805
A former high school turned craft brewery is a family friendly destination for locals and visitors alike! Campus 805 is home to Straight to Ale and Yellowhammer Brewing. Two locally well known craft breweries that also have great menus to stop by for a meal.
There is a large lawn in-between the two breweries where the whole family can play a game of frisbee, bring the dog out to mingle, or just set up a picnic blanket and enjoy the ambiance.
Planning Your Trip to the Rocket City
No matter what your shopping preferences are, Huntsville has something for everyone. Take your time exploring the city and discover all the options that are a great fit for your family! When we go back to visit, we like to take at least 3 days to visit all of our favorite spots and make sure we have time to get back to our favorite restaurants as well.
Huntsville 2-Day Itinerary
Below is a Huntsville two day itinerary for you to use as a guide to see as much as possible during your visit! Use this as a guide to plan your trip!
This is a great guide to see as much as possible on a short trip to Huntsville!
Huntsville Restaurant Ideas
Huntsville is a great town for foodies too! We have a number of favorite restaurants, and in addition to the ones we mention on the itinerary, here are some other ideas for you to look into, to find new favorites for your family!
- Agave & Rye (Bridge Street)
- Bad Daddy’s Burgers (Clift Farms in Madison)
- Jonathan’s Grille (Clift Farms in Madison)
- Pieology Pizzeria (Bridge Street)
- Rock’n’Roll Sushi (Campus 805)
- Rocket City Tavern (Just outside of Gate 9 of the Arsenal)
- Rosie’s Cantina (Multiple locations – South Huntsville & University)
- Taco Mama (Multiple locations – Jones Valley & Providence)
- Urban Cookhouse (Bridge Street Town Centre)
The Rocket City is a fantastic weekend trip location and a must visit site if you’ll be driving through the area!
** All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. Being Mommy with Style is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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