Weekend Guide to Huntsville, Alabama

US Space and Rocket Center Huntsville — US Space and Rocket Center

Known as the Rocket City, Huntsville, Alabama has a long history with science and technology. Home to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, the city rose to fame in the 1960s when engineers and scientists from around the world came here to be a part of the program.

But the area actually dates back to over 100 years prior, when it served as a Civil War train depot. Some of the homes that existed during this time are still standing today, especially in the Twickenham neighborhood. Today, the city is still known for STEM fields, but now have more startups than astronauts.

And thanks to the influx of workers during the 1960s, Huntsville is a surprising destination for international cuisine. Craft breweries have also popped up all around town in the last few years. There’s always something going on in Huntsville and Madison County, so plan your visit accordingly.

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What to Do in Huntsville

Alabama Constitution Village– Step back in time at the living history museum devoted to the location where the state’s delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document. Dress up in costumes and see what life would have been like during the time. 109 Gates Avenue

Burritt on the Mountain– The historic home on the mountain overlooks the city with a living history museum, a rebuilt Rosenwald School, and educational programming throughout the year. 3101 Burritt Drive SE

Earlyworks Museum– The interactive museum is a favorite of families, encouraging moving around and touching the exhibits. Favorite galleries include the Talking Tree, the Kidstruction Zone, and the Keelboat. Even pre-schoolers have their own play area. 404 Madison Street

Huntsville Botanical Garden Society– This year-round garden is a favorite of locals for its unique species of wildflowers and plants. The garden has themed sections including the Children’s Garden and Nature Center with its adjoining butterfly house. 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue

Huntsville Depot Museum– Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this former train depot dates back to 1860. It was operational until 1968 and is now a museum devoted to transportation in the region. 320 Church Street

Huntsville Museum of Art – The humble art museum features surprising exhibits on American art as well as a permanent collection of American and regional pieces as well as sculptures. 300 Church Street South

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment– Set in a former mill, this complex now has shops, restaurants, offices, and artist studios. On weekends, they host live music and food trucks as well as seasonal festivals and events. 2211 Seminole Drive

Monte Sano Mountain– Spanish for “mountain of health,” this state park is the best place around to connect with nature. It sits on over 2,000 acres and has hiking trails, a museum, a disc golf course, and accommodations. 5105 Nolen Avenue

U.S. Space & Rocket Center– The most legendary attraction in town includes the Marshall Space Center and is the home to Space Camp. Prepare to spend at least three hours here at interactive exhibits on the process of sending someone to space. Get your US Space and Rocket Center Admission before you go. 1 Tranquility Base

Weeden House– Named for the famous inhabitant, the residence belonged to a famous painter who was almost completely blind. The home features some of her notable works, including portraits of the enslaved. 300 Gates Avenue SE

Rocket City Trash Pandas– Cheer on the beloved minor league baseball team, an affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels, with its raccoon mascot and local food vendors.

Breweries– Huntsville also has its own “ale trail” where visitors can get stamps in a passport to receive a free bottle opener. Many are family-friendly as well.

Where to Eat in Huntsville

1892 East Restaurant & Tavern– This neighborhood favorite is located in the Five Points neighborhood and carries Huntsville’s best craft beers. The menu features sustainable ingredients in dishes like burgers, trout, and even vegetarian dishes. 720 Pratt Avenue, (256) 489-1242

Bandito Burrito Co– For a quick bite or after-work margarita, try this Mexican dive. The ingredients in their burritos, tacos, and enchiladas. They also carry a modest selection of locally brewed beers. 3017 Governors Drive Southwest, (256) 534-0866

Biscuit Express– This drive-through spot on the way out of town may not look like much but it claims to have the best biscuit in Alabama. 5077 Moores Mill Road, (256) 852-5571

Blue Plate Cafe– Grab a seat at the counter of this greasy spoon for Southern favorites and family recipes. Breakfast is available from 6 am and specials change daily based on what’s in season. 3210 Governors Drive, (256) 533-8808

Cotton Row– Soft lighting and brick walls make this an intimate restaurant set in an 1800s cotton warehouse. The menu focuses on seasonality and uses the best products from local farmers and foragers. 100 South Side Square, (256) 382-9500

Commerce Kitchen– Another restaurant ideal for an evening out, grab a drink at the quieter bar before your table is ready. Menu options include fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and pan-fried gulf fish. 300 Franklin Street, (256) 382-6622

Happy Tummy– Located within Lowe Mill, head here when you need something a little lighter. The vegetarian-friendly menu includes unique sandwiches and wraps. Lowe Mill First Floor, 2211 Seminole Drive, (256) 348-8132

Honest Coffee Roaster- Huntsville– Brand new to Huntsville, this hip coffee shop serves breakfast and lunch as well as coffee. It’s perfect for a quick bite and is the second location for the Tennessee-based company. 116-198 Clinton Avenue E, (615) 308-1470

Ol Heidelberg Cafe– This suburban eatery is one of two that showcases the German community that settled during the Space Race. Enjoy authentic dishes like schnitzel and European wines and beer. 6125 University Drive, (256) 922-0556

Revivalist– The restaurant inside a hotel has an incredible menu of seasonal dishes and craft cocktails. The lobster mac and cheese and chicken with gnocchi were delicious. 106 Jefferson Street South, (256) 361-0090

Viet Huong– Don’t let the strip mall location fool you. There’s frequently a wait at the cozy and authentic Vietnamese restaurant, but they turn tables quickly. Pho, bun cha, and clay pot chicken are all on offer. 930 Old Monrovia Road NW, Suite 1, (256) 890-0104

Where to Stay in Huntsville

106 Jefferson– The boutique downtown hotel gets its name from the address, a former Victorian-era hotel. It has its own restaurant and bar, a rooftop lounge, and a fitness center. 106 Jefferson Street South

AC by Marriott Hotel Huntsville Downtown– Located in the heart of downtown, the stylish boutique hotel has its own coffee shop and lounge, library space, and easy access to the Von Braun Center. 435 Williams Avenue SW

Dogwood Manor Bed & Breakfast- The historic home-turned-guesthouse has rooms with claw foot tubs and cozy interiors. Four rooms have private baths, WiFi, and tea and coffee-making facilities. 707 Chase Road

Element Huntsville– For an environmentally-responsible stay, enjoy a night at this property attached to the Westin near the research park. Rooms and suites have 24-hour room service, kitchenettes, and flat-screen TVs. 6810 Governors West

Residence Inn– This extended stay hotel is surrounded by dining and shopping options and was a short drive from the city. It also has free breakfast and a full kitchen. 6305 Residence Inn Road

The Westin Huntsville– This is one of the top tier options in the city. The award-winning hotel near Bridge Street Town Centre has a fitness center, restaurant and bar, pool, and an outdoor courtyard. 6800 Governors West

Camping- This is another option in the Huntsville area, with sites at Monte Sano State Park and even at the Space and Rocket Center. Both have facilities for RVs and tents as well as bathhouses.

Rentals- If you’re staying longer or with a bigger group, you’ll find plenty of Airbnb properties like this Twickenham neighborhood carriage house.