things to do in huntsville alabama

Huntsville, Alabama, is a city with a rich history, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a thriving tech industry. Here are some things to do in Huntsville:

Outdoor Activities

1. U.S. Space & Rocket Center: A must-visit attraction for space enthusiasts, featuring interactive exhibits, a Saturn V rocket, and a tram tour of the Marshall Space Flight Center.
2. Burritt on the Mountain: A historic mansion with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
3. Monte Sano State Park: A scenic park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a historic lodge.
4. Huntsville Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden featuring over 30 acres of plants, flowers, and trees.
5. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park: A historic park with a working iron furnace, hiking trails, and a museum.

Museums and Galleries

1. U.S. Army Aviation Museum: A museum showcasing the history of U.S. Army aviation, with over 120 aircraft on display.
2. Huntsville Museum of Art: A museum featuring a diverse collection of American art from the 19th century to the present.
3. EarlyWorks Museum: A museum showcasing the history of Huntsville and the surrounding region.
4. Burritt on the Mountain Museum: A museum featuring exhibits on the history of the Burritt family and the mansion.
5. Children’s Museum of Huntsville: A museum designed for kids, with interactive exhibits and play areas.

Family-Friendly Attractions

1. Huntsville Zoo: A zoo featuring over 500 animals from around the world.
2. Big Spring Park: A park with a large spring, hiking trails, and a playground.
3. Huntsville Children’s Theatre: A theater company producing shows for kids and families.
4. Guntersville Lake: A lake with boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
5. Monte Sano State Park’s Nature Center: A nature center with exhibits, trails, and a butterfly garden.

Food and Drink

1. The Old Mill: A historic gristmill turned restaurant, serving Southern cuisine.
2. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q: A famous barbecue joint with a wide variety of meats and sides.
3. The Huntsville Farmers Market: A market featuring local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
4. Madison Beer Company: A brewery and restaurant serving craft beer and American cuisine.
5. The Wharf: A shopping and dining complex with a variety of restaurants and bars.

Events and Festivals

1. Huntsville Festival of the Arts: A festival featuring live music, food, and art vendors.
2. Huntsville International Air Show: A air show featuring military and civilian aircraft.
3. Huntsville Christmas Parade: A festive parade through downtown Huntsville.
4. Huntsville Food and Wine Festival: A festival featuring local food, wine, and live music.
5. Rocket City Marathon: A marathon and half-marathon event through the city’s scenic streets.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Huntsville, Alabama. The city has something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs to families and foodies.