5 terrific highlights on University Drive every resident should know

University Drive is a hub for some of Huntsville’s most recognizable locations. There are several avenues for shopping, entertainment and dining that can all make for a day well spent.

While many, if not most, of our readers are familiar with University Drive, we wanted to round up some of its top places to check out the next time you’re in need of something fun to do around the city:

Madison Plaza

Madison Plaza is one of University Drive’s many shopping plazas and contains a local favorite hangout in Stars and Strikes.

Whether you’re a pro or casual bowler, Stars and Strikes is a top option for families to get together and have some fun. You can also play arcade games or laser tag, and the food is top-notch.

In Madison Plaza, you can also find the following:

Lumberjack Alley: offers a thrilling axe-throwing experience
Superhero Chefs: a superhero-themed restaurant that offers tasty options for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Viet Huong: one of our city’s premier Vietnamese spots
Where: 930 Old Monrovia Rd NW, Huntsville, AL 35806

MidCity

this weekend — The Market at MidCity occurs frequently throughout the year and allows you to explore the fantastic work of local creatives. (Michael Seale / Hville Blast)

There was no way we could build this list without including MidCity. Since its opening, it has quickly become one of the most iconic hangout spots in the city and for good reason.

MidCity is not only home to The Camp, an outdoor bar where you can enjoy live music and entertainment, but also the following businesses and events:

Dave and Buster’s
Markets at MidCity (including the Holiday Market happening this weekend)
Kamado Ramen (my personal favorite ramen restaurant in the city)
Topgolf
Trader Joe’s

Don’t miss out on MidCity’s Holiday Market this weekend. (MidCity District / Facebook)

Where: 5909 University Dr, Huntsville, AL 35806
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Shogun

Shogun, while a chain Japanese steak and sushi house, has always been a fantastic experience for me and my family. We often go here for graduation and birthday celebrations.

The Teriyaki Chicken and Samurai Steak are some of the most delicious hibachi meals in Huntsville. If you’re looking for a new place to get quality hibachi, I’d recommend starting at Shogun.

Where: 3991 University Dr NW, Huntsville, AL 35816
Hours: Every day 4-9PM
Website

University Place Shopping Centre

The University Place Shopping Centre is home to delicious dining spots, including the following:

88 Buffet
Nothing but Noodles
Phil Sandoval’s
Ol’ Heidelberg
Three Scoops

You can also find several specialty stores, including the excellent Asian Market and GigaParts, Inc. for all things electronics.

Where: 6125 University Dr NW, Huntsville, AL 35806

Westside Centre

Westside Centre is one of my most memorable locations in Huntsville. While not as flashy as places like MidCity or Stovehouse, this underrated shopping center is nostalgic and still remains one of my most-visited places in the city.

It helps that the Super Target is my family’s preferred grocery store, but this University Drive shopping center is also home to the following excellent spots: