Are you planning to visit or even move to Huntsville, Alabama? If so, you’re in the right place. We’re covering the top fun things to do in Huntsville, AL that both tourists and locals love.
From scenic hiking trails and well-preserved history to a lively arts and culture scene, the Rocket City has something for everyone. The city’s diverse attractions and activities make it one of North Alabama’s, if not the entire state’s, top destinations.
Now’s your chance to discover why Huntsville is not only a great place to vacation but a great place to call home sweet home.
Hotspot Huntsville: What Makes This City So Great?
Centrally located in North Alabama, Huntsville is Alabama’s largest city. Its population of 215,070 tops Birmingham, Alabama’s second most populous city, and Montgomery, the state’s capitol. Huntsville also hosts millions of tourists a year—with nearly 4 million tourists visiting the greater Madison County area in 2023.
Huntsville got its humble start in cotton production, but it was the Space Race of the 1960s that put it on the map. Earning it the moniker “Rocket City,” Huntsville served as a major hub for space exploration and technology. The Saturn V Rocket of the Apollo missions and the first United States satellites were both developed in Huntsville at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center.
Nowadays, Huntsville balances its rich history with a booming tech sector. The city maintains its historic districts and Southern charm among top tech companies, like Adtran, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing, that call this city home.
Make Your Idyllic Itinerary: 12 Fun Things to Do in Huntsville, AL
With tons of fun things to do in Huntsville, AL for adults, couples, families, and everyone in between, dull moments don’t stand a chance. So, get out a pen and paper (a cellphone works, too!) and create your perfect Huntsville itinerary from the list below.
1. Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
For unbelievable visual arts, head straight to Lowe Mills ARTS & Entertainment. Located near downtown Huntsville in a historic factory building, Lowe Mills features 153 working studios for over 200 artists, seven galleries, a theater, a community garden, and performance venues.
Browse the artists' studios, take a group oil painting or blacksmithing class, and enjoy live music performances from local musicians.
Top tip: Lowe Mills ARTS & Entertainment is open to the public Wednesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. And, don’t forget to check their calendar for upcoming performances and events!
2. Downtown Huntsville
A visit (or move) to The Rocket City isn’t complete without a stop in Downtown Huntsville. This vibrant area offers local eateries, cozy coffee shops, and swanky cocktail bars, great for gathering with friends or co-workers. It’s also home to several historical landmarks and districts, making it the perfect place for a peaceful stroll.
3. Bridge Street Town Centre
For fashion, food, and events in North Alabama, check out Bridge Street Town Centre, located west of Downtown Huntsville. This sophisticated outdoor shopping center features more than 70 shops, ranging from upscale brands to everyday needs.
What’s a day’s worth of shopping without a bite to eat? With 15-plus dining options, you’re bound to find something to satiate your cravings. When the sunsets, stay for performances by local musicians, who often perform along the center’s cobblestone streets.
4. Twickenham Historic District
Enjoy a walking tour through the 13-block neighborhood, comprised of Queen Anne and Gothic Revival historic homes dating back to 1814. Fun fact: Huntsville was first named Twickenham, after the first settler. Now, the Twickenham Historic District carries on the settler’s legacy.
5. U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Immerse yourself in the wonders of space history and exploration at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. You’re sure to feel like a true astronaut in the interactive exhibits, including a simulated space mission and hands-on invention workshops. Even see the Saturn V Rocket used in the Apollo mission up close and personal. No matter your age, a thrilling and educational experience awaits!
6. North Alabama Railroad Museum
Just east of Huntsville lies the North Alabama Railroad Museum—a mecca for train lovers young and old alike. Enjoy a free self-guided tour or join a work session with the museum’s volunteer staff to go deeper into train history. Better yet, take a ride on the museum’s vintage train over the Mercury & Chase Railroad.
Top tip: Don’t miss your departure! Check the museum’s Train Ride Schedule for up-to-date ride times.
7. Big Spring International Park
Big Spring International Park’s pristine ponds, nature trails, and green space provide a scenic escape right in the heart of downtown. Children and adults alike can enjoy feeding the park’s friendly ducks and koi, while annual events like the Panoply Arts Festival and Concerts in the Park turn it into a hub for family fun and community celebration. Oh! Don’t leave Fido at home—the park is pet-friendly!
Top tip: Bring quarters to purchase bird and fish food available for $0.25/per handful.
8. Huntsville Botanical Garden
Delve into the plant kingdom at the Huntsville Botanical Garden. Comprised of 112 acres, it features a diverse collection of grassy meadows, woodland paths, and remarkable floral collections. However, its most notable feature is its open-air butterfly house, the largest of its kind in the nation. The Garden also offers annual educational programs and events, as well as a dedicated Children’s Garden.
9. Monte Sano State Park
Lace up your boots and bust out your binoculars for hiking and panoramic views atop Monte Sano. Sitting on 2,140 acres of land, just outside of Huntsville, Monte Sano State Park features over 30 miles of trails. Come for a day trip or stay overnight in the park’s safari-style glamping tents or designated camping spots. With hiking, biking, sightseeing, and more, Monte Sano State Park is a true nature lover’s haven.
10. Burritt on the Mountain
Step back in time at Burritt on the Mountain, a unique open-aired museum and historic mansion. Featuring six authentic 19th-century homes, with interpreters dressed in authentic period dress and a host of farm animals, Burritt on the Mountain offers a chance to learn about life on the Cumberland Plateau in the 1800s. It also offers hiking and geocaching within its 167 acres of land atop Round Top Mountain.
11. Huntsville Museum of Art
Even more arts and culture await at the popular Huntsville Museum of Art. Explore its diverse permanent collections and rotating exhibits via a self-guided tour, or elevate your experience with a docent-led tour, sure to leave a lasting impression on any group. The Huntsville Museum of Art also features educational programs and events. Bringing along children? They can discover their inner artist in the museum’s Stender Interactive Gallery!
Top tip: Discount pricing is available on docent-led tours for groups of 10 or more, but make sure to book a tour at least two weeks ahead of your visit.
12. Weeden House Museum and Garden
Nestled within the Twickenham Historic District lies The Weeden House Museum and Garden, a place that will whisk you back nearly 200 years into the antebellum period. Enjoy a guided hour-long tour through the historic 1819 house, originally home to painter and poet, Maria Howard Weeden, and learn about life during the Civil War. It’s the perfect place to spend a quiet and contemplative afternoon.
Visiting or Moving? Huntsville Is Waiting for You!
With centuries of history, out-of-this-world aerospace attractions, and tons of modern-day entertainment, Huntsville is a city that’s easy to love. In fact, Huntsville is so loveable, it’s one of the most popular places to live in Alabama!
If you’re ready to make your move to Huntsville, our Century Complete brand has brand-new homes available today. Visit our communities in person or purchase your dream home online. Our streamlined online homebuying process makes it quick and simple to find a home both you and your budget will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Huntsville most known for?
Huntsville, Alabama, is best known as a major hub for aerospace and technology. It earned the nickname "Rocket City" for its significant role in U.S. space exploration, particularly at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, where the Saturn V rocket used in Apollo missions was developed. The city is now home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, which attracts visitors from all over. Alongside its space legacy, Huntsville has a thriving tech sector, scenic outdoor destinations, and a vibrant arts and culture scene.
How do you spend a day in Huntsville?
To make the most of a day in Huntsville, start at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, where you can explore interactive exhibits, learn about space history, and see the iconic Saturn V rocket up close. Afterward, head downtown to Big Spring International Park to stroll along the tranquil paths, spot koi fish in the spring, and enjoy the park’s scenic beauty.
Next, stop by the Huntsville Museum of Art for a dose of creativity, browsing its impressive permanent collections and rotating exhibitions. Finally, wrap up your day at Bridge Street Town Center, an open-air shopping and dining area where you can find the perfect souvenir.
Why is Huntsville so popular?
Huntsville’s mix of rich history, innovation, and affordability make it a vibrant, welcoming destination for tourists and locals alike. Ranked as the second most affordable city in the U.S. for 2024-2025, the Rocket City provides a budget-friendly place to call home. Attractions like the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville Museum of Art, and the Bridge Street Town Center attract tourists from all over the world.
