4 new openings in the Huntsville area—including a new dog training facility

hard knocks rescue new — Hard Knocks is coming to Jackson County. (Hard Knocks Rescue & Training, Inc. / Facebook)

1. Hard Knocks Rescue & Training, Inc.

You may have seen this nonprofit around Huntsville, doing trainings and hosting events at spots like Lowe Mill and Campus 805. Their rescue program specializes in rehabilitating dogs from abusive and neglectful environments with fostering and training.

Now, they’re opening a new facility east of Huntsville in Hollywood, Alabama. At the grand opening, visitors can meet some of their dogs and participate in the fun, with games, a bake sale and a raffle.

Location: 6199 Co Rd 33, Hollywood, AL 35752
Grand Opening: Saturday, March 25, 10AM-4PM
Website | Facebook | Instagram

2. The Hawt Spot Beauty and Art

The Hawt Spot is not your usual salon or beauty spot. Brittany Hawthorne, the owner, is a Huntsville native on a mission to give creatives from many disciplines a space to hone their art.

When The Hawt Spot opens, they’ll have nail salons, hair salons, art salons, podcast studios, photography spaces and tattoo studios.

Location: 8210 Bailey Cove Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35802
Grand Opening: Saturday, April 1, 12-3PM
Website | Facebook

3. City Harbor at Lake Guntersville Hotel and Condos

City Harbor at Lake Guntersville is already a destination, with restaurants, bars, shops and more—all on beautiful Lake Guntersville. But they’re not done yet.

City Harbor is breaking ground on a new hotel and new condos this year, and we can’t wait to see how they turn out.

Location: 301 Scott St, Guntersville, AL 35976
Opening Date: TBA
Website | Facebook

4. Thirsty Turtle

This spot is far from new, serving Huntsville for over 20 years. However, last summer, the Thirsty Turtle shut its doors, and we weren’t sure if the popular dive bar would reopen.

Now, it’s back. They’re only serving food and non-alcoholic drinks as they await their liquor license. But, it’s worth a visit to see how they’ve remodeled the space—and to grab a burger.