Huntsville Alabama Zip Code Map
Introduction
Located in northern Alabama, Huntsville is a city known for its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone here. In this travel guide, we’ll take a look at some of the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that Huntsville has to offer.
Top Attractions
U.S. Space & Rocket Center
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is one of Huntsville’s most popular attractions. This museum features an impressive collection of rockets, space capsules, and other NASA artifacts. Visitors can also take part in a variety of interactive exhibits and experiences, including a simulated space mission and a Mars climbing wall.
Huntsville Botanical Garden
The Huntsville Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis of greenery in the heart of the city. With over 100 acres of gardens, trails, and natural areas, this is a great place to relax and unwind. Highlights of the garden include the Butterfly House, the Garden of Hope, and the Children’s Garden.
Hidden Gems
Huntsville Museum of Art
The Huntsville Museum of Art is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit. This museum features a diverse collection of art, including works by local and regional artists as well as pieces from around the world. Be sure to check out the museum’s outdoor sculpture garden, which features works by some of the world’s most renowned sculptors.
Monte Sano State Park
Monte Sano State Park is a beautiful natural area located just a few miles outside of Huntsville. The park features over 2,000 acres of forests, trails, and scenic overlooks. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the park, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many designated areas.
Food Scene
The Bottle
The Bottle is one of Huntsville’s most popular restaurants, and for good reason. This farm-to-table eatery features a seasonal menu that highlights local ingredients and flavors. Be sure to try the restaurant’s famous bacon-wrapped dates, which are stuffed with goat cheese and drizzled with honey.
Big Spring Cafe
For a taste of Huntsville’s classic Southern cuisine, head to Big Spring Cafe. This iconic diner has been serving up burgers, fries, and milkshakes since 1928. Be sure to try the famous “Big Spring Special” burger, which comes topped with chili and slaw.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Huntsville Botanical Garden
The Huntsville Botanical Garden offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month. This is a great way to explore the garden without breaking the bank.
Lowry Nature Center
The Lowry Nature Center is a free attraction that’s perfect for nature lovers. This center features a variety of exhibits and educational programs, as well as miles of hiking trails through the nearby wetlands.
Outdoor Adventures
Monte Sano State Park
Monte Sano State Park is a great destination for outdoor adventurers. With over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, and rock climbing, there’s no shortage of outdoor fun here.
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful natural area that’s home to over 300 species of birds, as well as a variety of other wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, or paddle through the refuge, or take part in one of the many guided tours and educational programs.
Family-Friendly Activities
Sci-Quest
Sci-Quest is a hands-on science museum that’s perfect for kids of all ages. This museum features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, including a giant bubble station, a wind tunnel, and a gravity well.
Cook Museum of Natural Science
The Cook Museum of Natural Science is a great destination for families who love animals and nature. This museum features over 62,000 square feet of exhibits, including a live animal room, a dinosaur exhibit, and a butterfly garden.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Twickenham Historic District
The Twickenham Historic District is a beautiful neighborhood that’s filled with historic homes and buildings. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the area, or explore the neighborhood by bike or car.
Madison County Nature Trail
The Madison County Nature Trail is a hidden gem that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. This trail features over 70 acres of forests, lakes, and hiking trails, as well as picnic areas and a playground.
Natural Wonders
Monte Sano State Park
Monte Sano State Park is home to some of Huntsville’s most beautiful natural wonders. From the rugged cliffs of Stone Cuts Trail to the stunning views of O’Shaughnessy Point, there’s no shortage of natural beauty here.
Green Mountain Nature Trail
The Green Mountain Nature Trail is a beautiful hiking trail that’s located just a few miles outside of Huntsville. This trail features stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Martin Bar & Bistro
The Martin Bar & Bistro is a popular destination for Huntsville’s nightlife scene. This upscale bar features an extensive wine list, craft cocktails, and live music on the weekends.
Moe’s Original BBQ
Moe’s Original BBQ is a casual bar and restaurant that’s perfect for a night out with friends. This laid-back spot features live music, outdoor seating, and some of the best barbecue in town.
Local Markets
Madison City Farmers Market
The Madison City Farmers Market is a great place to stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. This market is open on Saturdays from April through October.
Greene Street Market
The Greene Street Market is a year-round farmers market that’s located in downtown Huntsville. This market features a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade soaps.
Beaches and Mountains
Gulf Shores
If you’re looking for a beach getaway, Gulf Shores is just a few hours’ drive from Huntsville. This beautiful stretch of coastline features miles of white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities.
Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning natural area that’s located just a few hours’ drive from Huntsville. This park features over 800 miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
Cultural Immersion
Alabama Constitution Village
The Alabama Constitution Village is a living history museum that’s dedicated to the state’s early history. Visitors can explore the village’s recreated 19th-century buildings and learn about life in early Alabama.
Burritt on the Mountain
Burritt on the Mountain is a historic estate that’s located on top of Monte Sano Mountain. This museum features a variety of exhibits and programs that showcase the region’s history and culture, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Art and Music Scene
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment is a vibrant arts community that’s located in a historic textile mill. This space features galleries, studios, and performance spaces, as well as a variety of events and workshops throughout the year.
The VBC Concert Hall
The VBC Concert Hall is a premier performance venue that’s located in the heart of Huntsville. This space features a variety of concerts, shows, and events throughout the year, including performances by some of the world’s top musicians and performers.
Walking Tours
Huntsville Ghost Walk
The Huntsville Ghost Walk is a spooky walking tour that explores the city’s haunted history. This tour takes visitors through some of Huntsville’s most haunted sites, including the Old Town Historic District and the Maple Hill Cemetery.
Historic Downtown Huntsville Walking Tour
The Historic Downtown Huntsville Walking Tour is a great way to explore the city’s rich history and architecture. This self-guided tour takes visitors through some of the city’s most historic buildings and landmarks, including the Harrison Brothers Hardware Store and the Alabama Constitution Village.
Architectural Marvels
The Huntsville Depot
The Huntsville Depot is a beautiful historic