Your guide for where to take non-natives in Huntsville

Reading time: 4 minutes

DowntownHSV1
There is no shortage of fun things to do in Huntsville. (Hville Blast)

Looking for a comprehensive list of where to take out-of-towners?

We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to see our picks.

Hiking trails, overlooks + more

monte sano
Monte Sano Nature Preserve is breathtaking. (McCarley Northway / Hville Blast)
  • Monte Sano State Park: Hidden in the mountains is our hometown state park, fit with rustic cabins, hiking trails and wildlife galore. Take a drive through the winding path as the trees turn, or have a picnic up at the top! You can’t go wrong here.
  • Ditto Landing: This gorgeous marina in South Huntsville is home to a quiet campground and picnic area, and is expanding in the next few years to include an entertainment venue as well.
  • Big Spring International Park: The iconic park in the heart of Downtown Huntsville is a great place to bring visitors. Feed the ducks, grab a coffee or ice cream from a local establishment or have a picnic by the pond – the choice is yours.

Art + museums

art
Visit the Museum of Art after work on Thursday for discounted admission. (Huntsville Museum of Art / Facebook)
  • U.S. Space & Rocket Center: It may be expected, but it’s always a great option. Browse hundreds of space-age relics or watch a movie in the INTUITIVE Planetarium and learn why we are called the Rocket City. Don’t forget the freeze-dried ice cream sandwiches!
  • Lowe Mill: This former textile mill is home to a plethora of artists and local creatives. Take a stroll around during open studio hours and watch an artist at work – you never know what you’ll see (just be mindful of the bats in the stairwells!).
  • Huntsville Museum of Art: We are some of HMA’s biggest fans. With curated selections from renowned local and international artists alike, it’s always a good time to visit.

Shopping

midcity
MidCity has amazing variety. (Ben Johnson, Hville Blast)
  • MidCity District: Adjacent to the Orion Amphitheater, MidCity is a bustling shopping and dining area that’s unique to Huntsville. From croissants to barbecue to ramen, MidCity truly has something for everyone.
  • Clinton Row: Have you ever seen an old storage facility turned into a mini shopping mall? Well, here you can. Check out dozens of local businesses from vintage clothing to haircuts.
  • Firehouse Antiques: Who wouldn’t want to go to the largest antique store in the Tennessee Valley? Spanning over 40,000 square feet, browsing Firehouse Antiques is the perfect rainy day activity.

Historic areas

Madison County
Historic Madison is an underrated gem. (Hville Blast)
  • Downtown Madison: A small-town vibe with shops, restaurants and historic spots all-in-one. Explore local businesses and historic buildings such as Madison’s former City Hall with a fun and eclectic backdrop.
  • Twickenham: Walking around Twickenham is a taste of historic Huntsville. Immerse yourself in the Rocket City’s history as you take a guided tour, or walk around the historic home district with a purple cup in hand.

Happy hour

Catacomb 435 in Huntsville, Alabama.
It’s 5 o’clock somewhere. (Hville Blast)
  • Campus 805: An old school that’s been converted into a brewery. Can it get any cooler than that? Check out Campus 805, entirely housed in the former Stone Middle School campus.
  • Catacomb 435: Shh! This speakeasy is located in the Clinton Row shops and is reservation-only. The bartenders here will fill your craving before your eyes, creating unique cocktails on-the-spot.
  • Rocket City Dog Bar: Bring Fido along! This spot has over 8,000 square feet for you and a furry friend to run wild. Enjoy one of their themed nights such as trivia, bingo and more.

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Amelia Brodowski
Amelia Brodowski
Articles: 26