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Unlocking the Hidden Gems: The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL

May 8, 2023 by Karyn Locke

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Are you tired of visiting the same old tourist traps? Look no further than Huntsville, AL – this hidden gem is full of unique and exciting activities for all ages! From interactive museums to thrilling outdoor adventures, we’ve rounded up the top 10 things to do in Huntsville that will make your trip unforgettable.

Things to Do in Huntsville, Alabama
Fountain in Downtown Huntsville

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL

Page Contents

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  • The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL
  • Explore the U.S. Space and Rocket Center
  • Learn about Huntsville’s History at the EarlyWorks Family of Museums
  • The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – Stroll Through Big Spring Park
  • Experience Nature at the Huntsville Botanical Garden
  • The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – Visit Burritt on the Mountain
  • Go Hiking at Monte Sano State Park
  • Shop and Dine at the Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
  • Discover Art and Science at the Huntsville Museum of Art
  • The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – Get Thrilled at the Insanity Complex
  • The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – Take a Brewery Tour at Straight to Ale
  • The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – In a Nutshell

Are you tired of visiting the same old tourist traps? Looking for a new and exciting adventure? Look no further than Huntsville, AL. This hidden gem is full of unique and thrilling activities that are perfect for all ages. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, Huntsville has it all.

In this article, we will unlock the top 10 things to do in Huntsville, AL. Get ready to explore the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, stroll through Big Spring Park, hike Monte Sano State Park, take a brewery tour at Straight to Ale, and much more. Join us as we uncover the best of Huntsville, AL and give you the ultimate guide to planning your unforgettable trip.

Ready to explore the beach in Alabama? Here’s everything you need to know about Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

Explore the U.S. Space and Rocket Center

Things to Do in Huntsville - US Space and rocket center
U.S. Space and Rocket Center

One of the main attractions in Huntsville, AL is the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. This center is a must-visit for anyone interested in space exploration and rocket technology. It is home to the largest collection of space artifacts in the world and is the official visitor center for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center.

Visitors can take part in interactive exhibits, such as the G-Force Accelerator, where they can experience what it feels like to be launched into space. There are also simulators that allow visitors to land a space shuttle or pilot a virtual rocket.

For those interested in the history of the U.S. space program, the center also has a dedicated exhibit on the Apollo missions. Visitors can see actual artifacts from the moon landing and learn about the astronauts who made history.

The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is a great place to spend a full day with the family, and is sure to leave visitors in awe of the achievements of the U.S. space program.

Learn about Huntsville’s History at the EarlyWorks Family of Museums

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL - earlyworks museum
EarlyWorks Museums – photo credit: huntsville.org

For a glimpse into Huntsville’s rich history, look no further than the EarlyWorks Family of Museums. This grouping of three separate museums offers a delightful and engaging way to learn about life in the early days of Alabama’s founding.

The centerpiece of the EarlyWorks Family of Museums is the EarlyWorks Children’s Museum. Here, children can step into a variety of historic settings, including a frontier cabin, a doctor’s office, and a 19th-century schoolhouse. The exhibits are interactive, giving children a chance to experience what life was like in Huntsville more than a century ago.

In addition to the EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, the family of museums also includes the Alabama Constitution Village and the Historic Huntsville Depot (temporarily closed at this time, but the park is still open!). The former is a living history museum that recreates life in 1819 when Alabama became a state. Visitors can stroll the streets and interact with costumed interpreters who bring the experience to life. Meanwhile, the Historic Huntsville Depot preserves the history of rail transportation in the region with exhibits on train travel in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

After exploring the EarlyWorks Family of Museums, take a leisurely stroll through Big Spring Park. The park’s tranquil waters and verdant foliage provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon of sightseeing.

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – Stroll Through Big Spring Park

Things to Do in Huntsville - big spring park
Big Spring Park in Downtown Huntsville

After immersing yourself in the history and culture of Huntsville at the EarlyWorks Family of Museums, it’s time to unwind and soak up some natural beauty. Big Spring Park is a picturesque oasis in the heart of downtown Huntsville that offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The park surrounds a natural spring that provides a tranquil backdrop for strolling, picnicking, or simply enjoying the scenery. There are plenty of benches and picnic tables scattered throughout the park, so it’s easy to find a quiet spot to relax and take in the view.

In addition to its natural beauty, Big Spring Park is also home to several monuments and sculptures that honor Huntsville’s rich history. The iconic red bridge is a popular spot for photos and provides a stunning view of the park and surrounding cityscape.

After a leisurely stroll through the park, head over to the Huntsville Botanical Garden to experience even more of the natural beauty that the city has to offer.

Experience Nature at the Huntsville Botanical Garden

Things to Do in Huntsville - huntsville botanical garden
Huntsville Botanical Garden

The Huntsville Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages. With over 112 acres of greenery, the garden is home to a vast array of plants and flowers, making it the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

If you’re looking for a relaxing stroll, head over to the nature trails where you can take in the beauty of the surrounding woodlands. You’ll also come across various streams and ponds, which provide serene spots for reflection.

The garden also boasts several themed gardens that showcase different varieties of flora, including an herb garden, a rose garden, and a butterfly house. The herb garden is particularly interesting as it features over 30 types of herbs, including basil, thyme, and lavender.

The garden has something for everyone, from a children’s garden that features interactive exhibits to a bonsai garden that showcases the art of bonsai. There’s also a large pond where you can rent kayaks and canoes to explore the water from a different perspective.

After a peaceful wander through the Huntsville Botanical Garden, head over to the nearby Burritt on the Mountain for a different type of nature experience.

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – Visit Burritt on the Mountain

After a peaceful wander through the Huntsville Botanical Garden, head on up to Burritt on the Mountain for a different type of nature experience. Not only is the view absolutely stunning, there’s a small village that you can walk through and check out live farm animals.

Once you’ve finished at Burritt strap on your hiking boots and head to Monte Sano State Park for a scenic hike through the mountains.

Go Hiking at Monte Sano State Park

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL - monte sano
Monte Sano – Photo Credit: huntsville.org

Located just a few minutes away from Huntsville, Monte Sano State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The park offers over 20 miles of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, from easy strolls to rigorous hikes. The park’s trails wind through hardwood forests and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. If you’re fortunate enough to visit during the fall season, the changing leaves will create a stunning backdrop for your hike.

For those looking to extend their stay, Monte Sano State Park also offers camping facilities, with both rustic and modern campsites available. The park’s campground is equipped with picnic areas, fire pits, and bathhouses, making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

After you’ve had your fill of nature, head to the nearby Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment for some shopping and dining.

Shop and Dine at the Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL - lowe mill
Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment – photo credit: huntsville.org

Located just a short drive from Monte Sano State Park, the Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment complex is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique shopping and dining experience. Housed in a historic textile mill, this sprawling center boasts over 150 working artists and makers, as well as a variety of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks.

Whether you’re in the market for handmade jewelry, locally crafted pottery, or one-of-a-kind paintings and sculptures, you’ll find it all at Lowe Mill. The studios are open to the public, so you can observe the artists at work and even buy their creations directly from their workspace.

When it comes to food, the options are equally diverse. Grab a bite at one of the on-site cafes, like Happy Tummy or Pizzelle’s Confections, or head outside to the food truck rally area for a rotating selection of local vendors.

After a day of shopping and indulging in delicious food, continue your exploration of Huntsville’s cultural scene by visiting the nearby Huntsville Museum of Art. With world-class exhibits and interactive features that showcase both art and science, the museum is the perfect way to cap off your day in Huntsville.

Discover Art and Science at the Huntsville Museum of Art

Things to Do in Huntsville - huntsville museum of art
Huntsville Museum of Art

Located a short distance from the Bridge Street Town Centre, the Huntsville Museum of Art is a hidden gem that draws visitors with its outstanding collection of exhibits. The museum features a diverse collection of regional art, as well as national and international exhibits that put Huntsville on the map as a destination for art enthusiasts.

But that’s not all – the museum also features interactive exhibits that showcase the intersection of art and science. These exhibits bring science concepts to life through interactive displays, so you can learn about science while having fun at the same time.

After you’ve explored the collections, head over to the museum’s café for a refreshing snack or lunch. With a rotating menu that features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the café is the perfect place to grab a bite and reflect on your day of cultural exploration.

If you’re looking for even more excitement, head over to the nearby Insanity Complex for a thrilling adventure that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – Get Thrilled at the Insanity Complex

After a day spent exploring the cultural and historical sites of Huntsville, why not cap it off with some high-energy fun? For those seeking thrills and excitement, the nearby Insanity Complex offers an array of activities that are sure to get your heart racing. From laser tag and mini-golf to an indoor trampoline park and virtual reality experiences, there’s something for everyone at this family-friendly entertainment hub.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Huntsville’s own Straight to Ale brewery for a tour and tasting. With a wide selection of craft beers and ales, you can sip and savor the flavors of Huntsville while learning about the brewing process. Plus, with a funky, industrial atmosphere and live music events, Straight to Ale is the perfect spot to unwind after a day full of adventure.

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – Take a Brewery Tour at Straight to Ale

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL - straight to ale
Straight to Ale – Photo Credit: Huntsville.org

After a day spent exploring the cultural and historical sites of Huntsville, why not cap it off with some high-energy fun? For those seeking thrills and excitement, the nearby Insanity Complex offers an array of activities that are sure to get your heart racing. From laser tag and mini-golf to an indoor trampoline park and virtual reality experiences, there’s something for everyone at this family-friendly entertainment hub.

If you’re interested in learning about the brewing process and tasting some local craft beers, head over to Huntsville’s own Straight to Ale brewery. The brewery offers tours where you can see firsthand how the beer is made and learn about the history of brewing in Huntsville. And of course, no tour is complete without a tasting – with a wide selection of craft beers and ales, you can sip and savor the flavors of Huntsville.

But Straight to Ale isn’t just a brewery – it’s also a hub for live music events and a trendy spot to hang out with friends or unwind after a day full of adventure. With its funky, industrial atmosphere, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon something truly unique. So why not cap off your day of exploring Huntsville with a tour and tasting at Straight to Ale? It’s the perfect way to get a taste of the local culture and relax with friends.

The Best 10 Things to Do in Huntsville, AL – In a Nutshell

In a nutshell, Huntsville, AL is a hidden gem just waiting to be unlocked. From the U.S. Space and Rocket Center to the Insanity Complex, there is something for everyone in this unique and exciting city. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, these top 10 activities will make your trip unforgettable. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Huntsville, AL today and discover all the hidden gems this city has to offer.

As they say, “The Rocket City has something for everyone.”

Filed Under: On the Go, Travel

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