huntsville, AL
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Huntsville, Alabama – Out of this World Attractions

Huntsville, Alabama is gaining popularity as a tourist spot for those visiting the south. And there are good reasons, as I discovered recently, when I visited this vibrant city. With everything there is to do and see in Huntsville, it’s no wonder tourists are catching on. From the U.S. Space and Rocket Center to the Von Braun Center, Huntsville, Alabama has a host of family friendly things to do.

huntsville, AL

Family Fun in Huntsville, AL

If you’re planning a trip to the southern part of the U.S., Huntsville, Alabama should be on your radar. This city is vibrant, smart, friendly, and the food is authentic southern comfort food that you will crave deeply after returning home. In fact the food alone will spoil you on BBQ for life. Never mind the Mac and Cheese or baked beans. Huntsville is a perfect city for families, couples, foodies and those who love to learn on any trip.

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U.S. Space and Rocket Center

See a real space shuttle, explore the universe on the big screen with amazing presentations, and bask in the wonder of the solar system and beyond at the world famous U.S. Space and Rocket Center. There are interactive workshops for the kids. There are space camps for all ages too. Plan to spend at least 6 hours there to fully enjoy all the center has to offer.

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If you have time, plan ahead and sign up for space camp. I promise you will love it. I did. OR consider Aviation Challenge Camp, which I got a quick glimpse into. Sharing my story about space camp here next week.

huntsville, AL

Huntsville Botanical Garden

If you love nature, Huntsville Botanical Garden is for you. With a wide variety of plants, trees, and shrubs; plenty of open space for the kids to run and play; and eateries; and even a new miniature train running through the garden, Huntsville Botanical Garden is fun for all ages.

Bridge Street Town Centre Christmas Day Dec. 25, 2010. Bob Gathany Photographer

Take in the Local Craft Beer Scene

Local craft beers are growing in popularity here in Huntsville and doing a beer trail tour can be a great way to spend an afternoon. Get a Craft Beer Trail Card at the Huntsville/ Madison County Visitor Center and follow the trail to sample the local craft beers. Get your card punched at each of the stops along the way. You can also get the cards at one of the craft brewers on the trail. At the end of the tour you will not only have enjoyed one of each of the amazing beers featured, but when you hand in the punch card you will also get a Huntsville souvenir bottle opener.

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Bridge Street Town Centre

Okay this is one we stumbled upon one night while out walking. When we visited Huntsville we stayed for two nights at the Home 2 Suites in the Research Park area. We walked over to have dinner at Kona Grill based on the excellent recommendation of the concierge and we found this outdoor mall lifestyle park. I could have spent all day there but we had several other things to do. Amazing restaurants, a carousel, a movie theatre and some unique and trendy boutique shops alongside some outlet style stores as well. Take your time.

Monte Sano State Park

Located just south and east of Huntsville, AL, Monte Sano State Park is a must see for anyone traveling to the area. With 2,140 acres of pristine natural beauty, The Monte Sano Lodge, and 14 rustic cabins, Monte Sano State Park is perfect for day trips out and about or a full vacation experience for those who want to really get back to nature.

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Courtesy of Huntsville/Madison County CVB

Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment

For lovers of the arts, Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment is a must. Featuring an art gallery as well as concerts, events, and workshops, Lowe Mill is a place that delivers something to everyone.

This is the place to host a wedding, attend an event or even just visit for a meal.

A.M. Booth’s Lumberyards

We had the opportunity to attend an opening night TBEX party here and were blown away. Such a perfect example of reusing a space and re-envisioning something in the downtown core that fits and is magnetic. What a welcome!

This is a 100 year old lumberyard that’s been refurbished. There are easily a half dozen rooms lending the space to numerous different kinds of celebrations all at once. We heard a live band performing outdoors and then moved inside for food and drinks, while a few feet away was another singer accompanied by guitar with cheese and crackers on a table. Beyond that was a bar and a country folksy singer, and in the outdoor kind of area were displays from numerous sponsors of the conference. LOVED this space. Read more about A.M. Booth’s Lumberyards here:

U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum

If you or a member of your family loves history, the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum is an excellent place to go on a trip to Huntsville, AL. With a wide variety of World War II equipment, uniforms, vehicles, and more, this memorial museum offers an in-depth look at one of the biggest wars in our history. The museum also has displays dedicated to other wars in our history complete with memorabilia.

Huntsville, Alabama is Out of this World

A lot of people will naturally think of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center when they think of Huntsville, AL, but you can’t discount the rest of the amazing attractions here. Whether you’re a nature lover, an art connoisseur, a lover of space, food, or more, Huntsville, AL has something for you. The spots listed above are a few of the attractions that left an impression on me when we visited. There’s so much to discover in Huntsville, AL.

Mom of two beautiful active girls, traveller, fitness junkie, social media consultant, and keeper of the sanity.

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