Top 41 Things To Do In Huntsville, Alabama

1. See the American artworks at Huntsville Museum of Art

Spend the day at Huntsville Museum of Art. Located in Downtown Huntsville, this tourist attraction is found at Big Spring International Park. It is known as North Alabama’s leading visual center, and it features 7 galleries that are filled with exhibitions and its 2,522-piece permanent collection of memorabilia.

The art museum commemorates the memory of astronaut Neil Armstrong by showcasing the Andy Warhol piece, “Moonwalk,” in its lobby. It also houses the world’s largest selection of Buccellati’s silver animals. You can sign up for art classes at Museum Academy. Drop by The Museum Store for souvenirs and dine at the Italian restaurant, Pane e Vino.

Huntsville Museum of Art

Address: 300 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Huntsville Museum of Art

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (extended hours on Thu); Sun: 12pm- 5pm; (closed on Mon)

Price: 12 USD (adults); 5 USD (children, ages 6 -11 & students); 10 USD (seniors, ages 60+, military & educators); Free (members & children under 6); 5 USD (Thu after 5pm)

2. Hike the beautiful Madison County Nature Trail

Take a walk in the park! Madison County Nature Trail, also called Green Mountain Trail, is located in southeast Huntsville, atop Green Mountain. There is a walking trail of 1.5 mi (2.4 km) that surrounds Sky Lake. A sense of calm sets in as you enter the 72-ac (29-ha) park.

The tranquil and green space is open to the public for free every day, including holidays. It is the perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts as it has an open-air pavilion, picnic area, and covered bridge. Fishing is allowed Monday through Friday for children under 16 years of age or seniors over 60 for a minimal fee. Dogs can use the trail if they are on a leash.

Madison County Nature Trail

Address: 5000 Nature Trail Road Huntsville, AL 35803

Website: Madison County Nature Trail

Opening hours: 7am - 30 minutes before sunset (daily)

Price: Free

3. Admire the garden at Weeden House Museum and Garden

Prepare to be amazed by the astonishing garden of Weeden House Museum and Garden. Built in 1819, the place used to be the house of poet and artist Maria Howard Weeden. The large porch and patio lead to the incredible grounds that will take your breath away.

If you are running an event, the outdoor areas can accommodate more than 175 guests. You might as well set an appointment to view the garden of the property, which will make a great venue for a special occasion.

Weeden House Museum and Garden

Address: 300 Gates Ave SE, Huntsville, AL

Website: Weeden House and Garden

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am & 1pm (history tours) (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: 5 USD (adults); 3 USD (children ages 12 & under)

4. Bring your kids to a fun-filled day at EarlyWorks Family of Museums

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by EarlyWorks Family of Museums (@earlyworksfam)

An incredible adventure of a bygone era awaits the children. Three museums comprise EarlyWorks Family of Museums. These are Alabama Constitution Village, Historic Huntsville Depot, and The EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, all of which are located in Downtown Huntsville.

The EarlyWorks for Children’s Museum is a hands-on, interactive exhibit for children between ages two and nine. Most kids from ages 10 and up prefer Historic Huntsville Depot or Constitution Hall Park and Museum. At Historic Huntsville Depot, children can board a train and pretend to conduct the train car. The tour is ideal for adults and children from 12 years old. There is a play area, Little Toots, which younger children will enjoy.

Children will learn about the history of statehood and other community stories at Alabama Constitution Hall Park, which is an open-air and historical park. There is a 90-minute tour of historic buildings that display Huntsville during the constitution of 1819.

Metered parking is available for The EarlyWorks Children’s Museum. There is a paid parking garage on Gate’s Ave (weekends and after 5:00 pm are free), as well as handicap parking on the north side of the museum off Gate’s Ave.

EarlyWorks Family of Museums

Address: 404 Madison St SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: EarlyWorks Family of Museums

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 5pm (extended hours on Thu); Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 USD (toddler); 10 USD (youth ages 4-17); 12 USD (adults); 10 USD (senior 55+)

5. Catch a performance at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Don’t miss the latest sounds at Huntsville’s most accessible concert series, Concerts on the Dock, at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. The concerts are free. But they are not the only activities happening at the art center. There are four performance venues in the facility.

The property started as a textile company and became a shoe factory. In 2001, it reopened as Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, an art facility.

Entertainment activities are available for both kids and adults. Be sure to check the place’s events calendar, the Concerts on the Dock schedule, and others. Prepare to be entertained!

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Address: 2211 Seminole Dr SW Huntsville, AL 35805

Website: Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 11am - 7pm; (closed from Sun - Tue)

Price: Free (concerts)

6. Go for an event at Von Braun Center

With Von Braun Center’s close proximity to the international airport, you can jet in and attend a special event such as a concert, conference, big sports game, Broadway performance, or even a wedding. Von Braun Center, after its namesake, Dr. Wernher Von Braun, the German rocket scientist, is prepared to handle all these events. Nearby hotels abound, making the place convenient.

If you desire to bring a car, there are three parking lots at the center. Since the arena is located in the heart of Downtown Huntsville, there are accessible city parking facilities.

Book your tickets in person or get them online. Head to Von Braun Center and enjoy.

Von Braun Center

Address: 700 Monroe Street Huntsville, Alabama 35801

Website: Von Braun Center

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily) / Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; 2 hours prior to start time of a ticketed event.

7. See the galleries at Burritt on the Mountain

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Burritt on the Mountain takes you back to the 1800s. It was the home of Dr. William Henry Burritt. The house, described as eclectic, has rooms converted into galleries for rotating exhibits, usually about historical and cultural topics related to North Alabama. The Struggle to Vote: The Nation, Alabama and the South 1848 to 1920 in September 2020 and Votes for Women in August 2021 are some exhibits.

Burritt on the Mountain

Address: 3101 Burritt Drive SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Burritt on the Mountain

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 12 USD (adults); 8 USD (children & students); 10 USD (seniors, 60 & military; Free (children 2 and under); Free (members)

8. Check out endangered animals at Harmony Park Safari

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

You will get to feed the animals when you take the 2-mi (3.2-km) tour of Harmony Park Safari inside your vehicle. You will see a host of animals. Some of these animals are zebras, antelopes, buffalos, camels, and ostriches. They will reach out for your food, so be ready. You can also visit the reptile house after your drive.

Harmony Park Safari is a haven for endangered animals. It is federally licensed. Catch the opportunity to see different kinds of species from March through November.

Harmony Park Safari

Address: 431 Clouds Cove Road, Huntsville, AL 35803

Website: Harmony Park Safari

Opening hours: 10am - sunset (daily) / last car is 1 hour before sunset

Price: 10 USD; Free (2 and under)

9. Get fascinated at U.S. Space and Rocket Center

Huntsville lives up to its nickname, “Rocket City.” U.S. Space and Rocket Center provides extensive exposure to the space program through participant use of a massive array of rockets and space apparatus, lectures, and training exercises. It also features the evolution and future of space travel.

Do you want to go on a space mission? The flight simulators will give you a feel of a space adventure. Relive the experience of the first man on the moon or journey to Mars by joining the space camp’s astronaut underwater training. Learn how to manage movements in the space shuttle through multi-axis training and aircraft tumble. There are also space shows and documentaries that will allow you to look at science from a different perspective.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Address: 1 Tranquility Base, Huntsville, Alabama 35805

Website: U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day)

10. Shop at the lively Bridge Street Town Centre

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Whether you want to splurge or look around, head to Bridge Street Town Centre. You can shop at more than 70 upscale outlets. You will not be able to resist the choices. From children’s fashion to adult brands, Bridge Street Town Center provides the perfect retail therapy. When you get hungry from all that shopping, you can choose from the many restaurants at the complex.

Bridge Street Town Centre

Address: 365 The Bridge Street, Suite 106, Huntsville, AL 35806

Website: Bridge Street Town Centre

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 7pm

11. Enjoy luxury dining at Cotton Row Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Dining with friends for brunch, lunch, or dinner promises a treat of fine American cuisine with strong Southern influences. This restaurant located in Southside Square showcases comfort and elegance. Just be sure to make reservations.

Cedar Pipe Cellar offers an intimate setting and allows you to personalize your menu and wine pairing. If you prefer, you can even leave this task of personalizing your menu to the chef. The place can also accommodate 16 people.

Lofts provide an elegant setting for bigger groups. The north and south lofts can seat 32 people in each room. They have a modern design that preserves the historical significance of the building.

Boardroom and Salon cater to smaller and more intimate groups of 10 and 14, respectively. They can even be closed off for privacy.

Cotton Row Restaurant

Address: 100 Southside Square, Huntsville

Website: Cotton Row Restaurant

Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 11am - 2pm (lunch); Mon - Sat: 5pm - 10pm (dinner); Sun: 10:30am -3pm (brunch)

12. Enjoy camping at Monte Sano State Park

If you want to have spectacular views of the city and enjoy the fresh mountain air, Monte Sano State Park is the place for you. The state park is near Huntsville, in northeast Alabama. Embarking on its grounds is a great day trip idea if you wish to enjoy a little adventure with your family and friends.

Monte Sano State Park has both improved campsites and primitive camping. It offers an outstanding campground, with miles of hiking trails and mountain biking paths. You can walk in, call the office of the recreation area, or use the new online camping reservation tool.

Monte Sano State Park

Address: 5105 Nolen Ave SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Monte Sano State Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily - office) / 8am - sunset (park); trails close 30 minutes before sunset

Price: Camping only - Rates vary by date, availability, and unit amenities. Please visit www.reservealapark.com to check rates and date availability

13. Eat seasonal food at Cotton Row Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Enjoy a fancy meal at Cotton Row Restaurant. Dishes on the menu are influenced by what is in season. The restaurant partners with farmers and foragers to deliver the freshest ingredients to guests. When dining in groups, there is a choice among Cedar Pipe Cellar, Lofts, and Boardroom and Salon rooms. Each meal promises to be an experience. Be sure to reserve your space.

Cotton Row Restaurant

Address: 100 Southside Square, Huntsville

Website: Cotton Row Restaurant

Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 11am - 2pm (lunch); Mon - Sat: 5pm - 10pm (dinner); Sun: 10:30am -3pm (brunch)

14. Stroll through Big Spring International Park

Located in the city center, Big Spring International Park surrounds Big Spring, the birthplace of Huntsville.

This popular attraction measures 12.5 ac (5.1 ha), giving you plenty of space to stroll around and hang out. On your visit, you will see various gifts such as the bench from the United Kingdom and a sundial from Germany. The cherry blossoms and the distinctive red bridge that is hard to miss are gifts from Japan. You can bring your dogs too as long as they’re leashed. There are excellent walking paths for walkers and riders. You can also feed ducks and koi.

Big Spring International Park

Address: 200 Church Street Northwest Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Big Spring International Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

15. Check out the butterfly house at Huntsville Botanical Garden

Follow the path in the botanical garden that leads to the largest open-air butterfly house. Promenade with the winged beauties and appreciate the waterfalls, ponds, and plush foliage all around you. This popular attraction along Bob Wallace Avenue and Sparkman Drive is home to more than 1,500 native butterflies at the butterfly house. Moreover, it features several display gardens including the Garden Railway. This popular exhibit is a miniature European village that brings delight to adults and children alike.

Butterfly house at Huntsville Botanical Garden

Address: 4747 Bob Wallace Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35805 United States

Website: Butterfly house at Huntsville Botanical Garden

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm

Price: Free (members); 2 USD (children 2 and under); 9 USD (children 3 - 17); 14 USD (adults); 12 USD (military personnel, student, senior 55+)

16. Learn astronomy at Von Braun Astronomical Society

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Von Braun Astronomical Society has a planetarium where a variety of educational programs are available to the public every Saturday at 7:30 pm. You can request special arrangements if you’re with a group. There is also a “star show” where the stars project on the dome. The audience will learn to look for the constellations visible on that night.

Conrad Swanson Observatory and Wilhelm Angele Observatory are on campus. You will find them at Monte Sano State Park. You can learn to operate several telescopes and experience observing the deep sky when you spend a “Night at the Observatory.” After the session, you can bring home the images you have taken.

Von Braun Astronomical Society

Address: 5105 Nolen Ave SE Huntsville, AL 35801

Opening hours: Sat: 7:30pm (planetarium shows temporarily suspended)

17. See the military artifacts at U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum

Appreciate the largest collection of aircraft, military vehicles, weapons, and many more at U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum. The museum is a testament to the history, bravery, and accomplishments of American servicemen and women. It displays souvenirs of battles fought to defend the country and its allies. They include artifacts, memorabilia, and equipment. One of the most iconic attractions here is the Ford Pygmy, the oldest surviving WWII jeep.

U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum

Address: 2060A Airport Road Huntsville AL 35801

Website: U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed from Sun - Tue)

18. Try a 13-layer club sandwich at McAlister's Deli

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Every day is National Sandwich Day at McAlister’s Deli, with its famous 13-layer sandwich. Yes, that is right! It is all of 13 layers of the goodness of smoked turkey, McAlister’s honey mustard, black forest ham with bacon, sharp cheddar, Swiss cheese, mayo, lettuce, and tomatoes. There are two McAlister outlets in Huntsville, one at the airport and the other at Perimeter Parkway.

When the craving sets in, grab McAlister’s club sandwich. This sandwich comes with a side too. After a day of shopping or touring, you might want to dine in or order online.

McAlister's Deli

Address: 1480 Perimeter Parkway NW, Huntsville, AL 35806

Website: McAlister’s Deli

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10:30am - 9:30pm; Fri - Sat: 10:30am - 10pm

Price: 7.39 USD

19. Explore Twickenham Historic District

Twickenham Historic District, Alabama’s largest antebellum district, is the place where you can find some of the finest mansions. The community has preserved the original state of the homes. There is an emphasis on the iconic features of the 19th-century antebellum. Walking in this historical district is recommended to appreciate its antiquity and architecture. There are walking tours all year round.

Twickenham Historic District

Website: Twickenham Historic District

20. Go to the remarkable Constitution Hall Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Constitution Hall Park is an open-air museum that simulates life in 1819. There is a replica of the cabinetmaker’s workshop at this museum. It’s the place where the Alabama Constitution was signed. Children will learn about the history of statehood and other community stories here. There is a 90-minute guided tour of historic buildings that display Huntsville during the constitution of 1819. It is ideal for adults and children aged 12 and up.

Constitution Hall Park is part of EarlyWorks Museum Complex.

Constitution Hall Park

Address: 109 Gates Ave SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Constitution Hall Park

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sun)

21. Play vintage arcade games at Pints & Pixels

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Talking about the 80’s vibe, Pints & Pixels is a bar and arcade that features craft beer, wine, and a soda fountain. There are around 50 vintage arcade games, pinball machines, and Skee Ball. You will be re-acquainted with Pac-man and Mario Cart, among others. If you miss the sounds of the ‘80s, the bar plays them too. Note that the establishment takes tokens instead of quarters, payable by cash or by credit card.

Is the place kid-friendly? Yes, you can bring your little ones, except on Friday and Saturday nights after 9 PM when only those aged 21 and above are allowed in the venue.

Located in the Student Union Building at Campus 805, the property is a bar that features menus for both kids and adults, including its famous “Anaheim Chili, so you can swing by with your family and friends.

Pints & Pixels

Address: 2500 Clinton Ave W, Suite H, Huntsville, AL 35805 (Campus 805)

Website: Pints & Pixels

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 12 - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 12am; Sun - 12pm - 9pm (closed on Mon)

22. See the unique artworks at Lowe Mill ARTS and Entertainment

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

You can appreciate the unique artworks of more than 200 artists showcasing their works at Lowe Mill ARTS and Entertainment. There are more than 140 studios in the facility. You can choose from many activities like painting, drawing, ceramics making, and even culinary arts, among others.

Lowe Mills ARTS & Entertainment has come a long way from being a textile company and a shoe factory.

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Address: 2211 Seminole Dr SW Huntsville, AL 35805

Website: Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 11am - 7pm (closed from Sun - Tue)

Price: 35 USD (studio application fee)

23. Tour the historic Weeden House Museum

Wander through the rooms and spaces of Weeden House Museum. This museum was the house of poet and artist Maria Howard Weeden. Guided tours, which last about an hour, showcase her art. Due to its timeless and classic elegance, the place has become a popular venue for weddings and holiday events.

Weeden House Museum and Garden

Address: 300 Gates Ave SE, Huntsville, AL

Website: Weeden House and Garden

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am & 1pm (history tours) (closed from Sat - Sun)

Price: 5 USD (adults); 3 USD (children ages 12 & under)

24. Buy a souvenir at Railroad Station Antique Mall

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Since 1984, Railroad Station Antique Mall has been a family-owned store. It sits in the Lombardo Building, which is listed as part of the National Registry of Historic Places. It carries product lines categorized into interiors, bath & body, scents & candles, cleaners & polishes, gourmet food, and more!

When you visit Downtown Huntsville, why not drop by Railroad Station Antique Mall for some souvenirs? U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum and North Alabama Railroad Museum are nearby. There is also a local cuisine only a few blocks away, so the shop’s location is convenient.

Railroad Station Antique Mall

Address: 315 Jefferson St N, Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Railroad Station Antique Mall

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm

25. Enjoy live music at Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill is a bar and grill that features live music. It has been a bar since the ‘90s, and it is known as Judge Crater’s and Tavern under the Square previously. It is also the original underground bar located in Downtown Huntsville.

Under its ownership since 2007, the place has always supported local music. There is a closed-in feel that allows personal interaction with the bands.

The establishment also offers a bite-sized menu and a great selection of drinks. It has the kind of environment that will not leave you smelling like the grill. You can check the calendar to see who’s playing at the bar.

Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill

Address: 110 Southside Square Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 8pm - 2am; Fri: 5pm - 2am; Sat: 7pm - 2am; Sun: 8pm - 2am

26. Get thrilled at Rage Room

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

In Huntsville, you can release all that anger and stress at Rage Room. Rage Room is the place where you can vent out your frustrations by smashing plates, glasses, and printers (not your own!).

“Assets” fill the closed room, depending on the package of your choice. You are given weapons, like mallets, crowbars, and golf clubs. Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) of thick gloves, jumpsuits, and masks are handed to you before you start smashing. A non-refundable reservation fee of 15 USD is required.

There are several Rage session packages. You can bring your breakables too (called BYOB package). Couples have Date Night Rage sessions, and there are sessions for up to 24 persons. You can hold group parties and team-building activities.

Other activities include the Axe Rage (where you throw fluorescent axes aiming for a bullseye) and the Splatter Room (to release your artistic and colorful energy).

Rage Room

Address: 2150 Leeman Ferry Circle Southwest, Huntsville, Alabama 35801

Website: Rage Room

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 12am

27. Walk your furry friend at Dog Spot Dog Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Huntsville has four off-leash dog areas. Dog Spot Dog Park, located under overpasses, makes for great use of space in the city. The place is open to dogs and dog owners from dawn to dusk. These dog spots allow pets to run around and play. There are two fenced areas separating dogs weighing less than 25 lb (11.3 kg).

There are benches, but you can also bring your light and portable chairs. There are a few water faucets to fill water buckets. Some areas are shaded by trees or the highway. Bring the usual poop bags and the favorite toys of your furry friends.

Dog Spot Dog Park is not just an ideal place for dogs to socialize but is also a great outdoor space to meet other people who share the same love for dogs.

Dog Spot Dog Park

Address: Downtown Dog Spot; Creekwood Park Dog Spot; Hampton Cove Dog Spot; Southside Dog Spot

Website: Dog Spot Dog Park

Opening hours: dawn - dusk (daily)

Price: Free

28. Explore Burritt on the Mountain

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Burritt on the Mountain takes you back to the 1800s. This museum features the architectural styles and artifacts of the period. The tour of the historic place showcases six homes typical of the 19th century in the Cumberland plateau and depicts how people lived. The tour takes you to the blacksmith shop and the eclectic Burritt mansion. McCurdy Barnyard shows the variety of animals kept on the farms at that time. Interpreters, dressed in period pieces, are around to answer questions and give the tours. Guided tours for groups of 12 are available.

A replica of Rosenwald Schoolhouse at the museum opened to the public in 2017. The schoolhouse has two classrooms, a teacher’s room, an industrial room, and a permanent exhibit highlighting the story of the Rosenwald schools. Two classes of fourth graders experience an early 1900s school day in era-appropriate clothes.

It is not enough that Burritt on the Mountain is historical, but it also sprawls on a spectacular 167-ac (67.6-ha) spread that overlooks the city.

Burritt on the Mountain

Address: 3101 Burritt Drive SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Burritt on the Mountain

Opening hours: Tue - Sat; 9am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 12 USD (adults); 8 USD (children & students); 10 USD (seniors, 60 & military); free (children 2 and under); free (members)

29. Hike through the stunning trails of Land Trust of North Alabama

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

With eight public reserves, you can choose from more than 70+ mi (112+ km) of trails to hike. Land Trust of North Alabama offers a lot of spaces to commune with nature and engage in outdoor activities. There are guided hikes for all ages and skill levels throughout the year.

You can pass by creeks, caves, and the natural beauty of these areas. Access to the trails is free. Pets are allowed as long as they’re leashed at all times.

Land Trust of North Alabama

Address: 2707 Artie St SW Ste 6, Huntsville, Alabama 35805

Website: Land Trust of North Alabama

Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)

Price: Free

30. Learn to skate at Benton H. Wilcoxon Municipal Ice Complex

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If learning to skate is on your bucket list, you can tick it off when you go to Benton H. Wilcoxon Municipal Ice Complex.

The ice skating rink offers public skate sessions. If you have not skated before, don’t fret. There are skater helpers for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. The place also has a skating school that accepts both kids and adults. Sessions, however, can range between five and nine weeks, depending on the season.

Benton H. Wilcoxon Municipal Ice Complex operated as a private corporation for 27 years. It was later donated to Huntsville in 1986. The city saw opportunities to expand the complex. The establishment opened to the public in 1991.

Suit up in layers of warm clothing and show your moves!

Benton H. Wilcoxon Municipal Ice Complex

Address: 3185 Leeman Ferry Rd SW, Huntsville, AL 35801

Website: Benton H. Wilcoxon Municipal Ice Complex

Opening hours: 5am - 9pm (daily)

31. Go for an energizing hike to Natural Well

If you wish to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy the fresh air instead of being cooped up in a shopping complex or a museum in Huntsville, there are a few better places to visit like Natural Well Hiking Trail. Whether you wish to go mountain biking or simply walk, the choice is yours as you explore the walking trail at your own pace. At the end of the walking trail, you will reach a naturally occurring deep cave called Natural Well.

Natural Well

Address: Natural Well Trail, Huntsville, AL 35801, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

32. Explore the rich railway history at North Alabama Railroad Museum

Are your little ones interested in locomotives and railways? Visiting North Alabama Railroad Museum is a great activity for kids. This destination showcases some of the finest exhibits on railroad history in the entire state. Featuring an amazing collection of rolling stock and train stations, along with a heritage railroad that actually allows you to get on the train, this museum is free for the public and is run entirely by enthusiastic volunteers. If you wish to ride any of the trains, you may have to pay a nominal fee.

North Alabama Railroad Museum

Address: 694 Chase Rd NE, Huntsville, AL 35811, United States

Website: North Alabama Railroad Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm; Sat: 9am - 12pm (closed on Sun)

33. Check out the railway and model villages at Huntsville Depot Museum

Located on Norfolk Southern Railway Line, Huntsville Depot Museum is another wonderful museum that features one of the oldest railway depots in the entire country. Offering guided tours where a narrator will explain the significance of each exhibit, this depot is a landmark building in Huntsville. The site, which used to hold imprisoned Confederate soldiers, is a part of the Earlyworks group of museums. You can find various steam engines here as well as a model village.

Huntsville Depot Museum

Address: 320 Church St NW, Huntsville, AL 35801, United States

Website: Huntsville Depot Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

34. Explore the historic Redstone Rocket Test Site

The historic Redstone Rocket Test Site is a source of pride for the residents of Huntsville as it was used to test-fire the Redstone missile, the first missile that could detonate an atom bomb. It is nicknamed Old Reliable because of its sturdiness and contributions to astronomers all over the world, especially in the United States. This test stand was built primarily by the armed forces and about 362 static rocket tests were conducted here that really helped the defense forces.

Redstone Rocket Test Site

Address: 5298 Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, AL 35808, United States

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

35. Go on an exciting hike at Alum Hollow

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Alum Hollow is a hidden gem in Alabama, with beautiful waterfalls waiting at the end of a quick hike. Meant for novices, this trail is extremely easy and rewarding. This is also one of the hiking trails that is open all year round. During winter, hike at Allum Hollow and end it with a hot beverage.

Alum Hollow

Address: 13800 S Shawdee Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35803, United States

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

36. Crack open a cold one at Straight To Ale

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

A day trip to the South is incomplete without visiting a taproom or brewery where you can enjoy your favorite beverage with your friends or family. This huge craft brewery offers a free tour of its premises every Saturday, followed by a tasting tour that provides samples of craft beers. Aside from a huge selection of beers and cocktails here, you can also try some of the delicious snacks and meals available here.

Straight To Ale

Address: 2610 Clinton Ave W, Huntsville, AL 35805, United States

Website: Straight To Ale

Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 11am - 9pm; Sat: 11am - 8pm

37. Have the best steak at Ruth's Chris Steak House

If you enjoy steak, you know that the Southerners take pride in preparing a delicious steak that you will be dreaming about for days after you have eaten it. Head over to Ruth’s Chris Steak House, which boasts the best steak in town, and treat yourself to a delicious steak burger that is sure to blow your mind. This is an upscale establishment so there is a minor dress code. The ambiance is truly elegant and perfect for a date.

Ruth's Chris Steak House

Address: Twickenham Place, 720 Gallatin St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801, United States

Website: Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 4pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 10pm

38. Sing along to your favorite tunes at Moody Monday's Inc

Who doesn’t love karaoke? Singing along to your favorite tunes and pretending you’re in a concert has to be one of the most fun activities that you can engage in, drunk or sober. Check out Moody Monday’s Inc which offers delicious meals and karaoke, so you can have the best of both worlds. If you don’t know what to order on your first visit, consider getting a taco or a quesadilla.

Moody Monday's Inc

Address: 718 Church St NW, Huntsville, AL 35801, United States

Opening hours: 10am - 2am (daily)

39. Relax at Southside Park

Sit by the picnic tables and enjoy the beautiful surroundings at Southside Park. This serene and well-kept park is home to amenities such as bicycle trails, a disc golf course, and a dog park, therefore, an ideal spot for people-watching. Enjoy the fresh air as you walk through the lovely park while the numerous trees provide you with ample shade. Interestingly, it is in a good location, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Southside Park

Address: 16159 Chaney Thompson Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35803, United States

Website: Southside Park

Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)

40. Indulge in indoor activities at Altitude Trampoline Park

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Altitude - Huntsville (@altitudehuntsville)

Situated in Westside Center, Altitude Trampoline Park is endowed with amazing sporting amenities like a foam pit, rock wall, trampolines, and trapezes, making it an ideal place for exciting fun activities. This spacious trampoline park has a seating area that is perfect for hanging around after having a go at some of the exhilarating activities. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making you feel valued. You can also chill in their TV area to watch entertainment shows from around the world. This park is ideal for people of all ages.

Altitude Trampoline Park

Address: 6275 University Dr NW #14, Huntsville, AL 35806, United States

Website: Altitude Trampoline Park

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 9pm; Fri: 10am - 11pm; Sat: 9am - 11pm; Sun: 11am - 7pm

41. Mountain biking at Monte Sano Nature Preserve

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Land Trust of North Alabama (@landtrustnal)

Being among the biggest urban nature preserve in the US, you’ll be treated to fun outdoor recreational activities you’ll remember for days. One of these activities is mountain biking. Trails along this nature center are well marked and cared for, thus making cycling fun. It’s open all year round and with different routes to choose from. One thing is certain though, you’ll enjoy the fresh air and scenic landscape views.

Monte Sano Nature Preserve

Address: Monte Sano Nature Preserve

Website: Monte Sano Nature Preserve

Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)

Have a great time in Huntsville

Be sure to plan with family and friends to make the most of your visit; experience the different activities and admire the attractions in Huntsville. If you want a little history, explore Twickenham Historic District and prepare to be amazed at U.S. Space & Rocket Center; but if you prefer some adventure or just a change in scenery, go camping at Monte Sano State Park or hike the trails of Land Trust of North Alabama.

All these attractions will make you want to come back and discover some more.