Not every vacation destination is family-friendly, and those that usually attract massive crowds.
Think Orlando or the Grand Canyon.
That said, there is one place in the deep south that is perfect for families seeking
a picturesque and quiet destination that also boasts a ton of thrills.
Huntsville, Alabama, is probably not the first place you'd think of when planning a family
vacation, but we're here to tell you that it actually has a lot to offer.
Huntsville is home to a number of fabulous attractions, including museums, parks, natural
wonders, and other world-class entertainment options.
It's a city that is rich in cultural and historical significance and is known for offering some
of the nation's best countryside to explore.
Not only that, but Huntsville is also renowned for its culinary scene and has a wide variety
of shopping offerings.
Keep watching to see why we think Huntsville just might be the perfect destination for
your next vacation.
Viewcation Presents: The Best Things To Do In Huntsville, Alabama.
Twickenham Historic District
Calling all architecture buffs.
Twickenham is the state of Alabama's largest antebellum district.
Here, you can take a self-guided tour of 19th-century antebellum homes.
You'll feel as if you were transported back in time as you explore homes in the Federal
and Greek Revival styles.
Be sure to visit the Weeden House Museum.
This home was owned by the famed female artist and poet Maria Howard Weeden and is now open
to the public.
US Space & Rocket Center
Huntsville is affectionately known by locals as Rocket City.
It earned this nickname due to the fact that it was here that scientists first developed
rockets that ultimately sent humankind to the moon.
At the US Space & Rocket Center, visitors will learn all about the moon landing and
the labor and technology that made that dream come true.
Not only can guests see genuine moon rocks, but they can also see one of the three still
surviving Saturn V Moon Rockets as well as a full-scale mock-up of the space shuttle
all geared up and ready to launch.
Our favorite attraction, however, is the walk-through exhibit dedicated to the International Space
Station.
Big Spring International Park
This destination is one of the best places to begin your exploration of Huntsville, as
it's where the city got its start almost 2 centuries ago.
In the early 19th century, John Hunt, the man that helped give Huntsville its name,
built a log cabin at this location adjacent to where an underground spring provided water
for the region's earliest European settlers.
Be sure to check out the bluff directly behind the First National bank building to see what
the Big Spring looks like today.
Throughout the park, you'll find a lot to take in, including running paths, koi ponds,
open green spaces, and footbridges.
In the spring, the cherry trees explode with color as their pink blossoms bloom.
Interestingly, Japan gifted the cherry trees to the city as well as a Red Bridge that is
used for foot traffic.
Alabama Constitution Hall Park
Stepping into Alabama Constitution Village is a lot like taking a trip back through the
ages in some kind of time machine.
Huntsville was the first capital of Alabama and this park is where the state's forefathers
penned the state constitution back in 1819.
You can take a 90-minute guided tour of the village which includes stops at a cabinet
shop where delegates signed the state's constitution.
While you're strolling through the shop, you can see a live woodworking demonstration while
also getting a chance to attempt to give the wheel lathe a turn.
Over in the Boardman complex, you can see the Ramage printing press where the first
Alabama Constitution was printed.
After that, you can take part in a hands-on demo of the press in operation.
At the Neal House, visitors can see how people used to make clothes using a spinning wheel.
You can also learn all about how the namesake Neal family lived in 1819.
Huntsville Botanical Gardens
Located near the US Space and Rocket museum, the Huntsville Botanical Gardens are comprised
of 112 acres of beautiful foliage.
The garden is free to visit and open yearlong.
Throughout the year, numerous events are held here, including seasonal festivals, adult
and child programs, and more.
While you walk through the trails, gardens, and over the old wooden bridges, you can enjoy
the wildlife and scenery.
Within the Botanical Garden is also one of the country's largest open-air butterfly gardens.
Harmony Park Safari
Very few places in the country offer guests a chance to visit a federally licensed preserve
that includes both exotic and endangered animals.
Visitors can tour Harmony Park safari-style in their own cars.
While driving around the park, you'll see animals like buffaloes, camels, alligators,
zebras, and rams.
There is additionally an on-site waterfall, a reptile house, and several antique buildings.
Be sure to bring your camera and abide by all park rules.
If you can handle that, you'll be all geared up for a wild ride that you won't soon forget.
US Veterans Memorial Museum
Huntsville is home to many unique museums, but this one is clearly one of the best.
The US Veterans Memorial Museum features a collection of military equipment, photos,
and artifacts, some of which date back to the Revolutionary war.
On display are items like weapons, uniforms, medals, and over 30 historic vehicles that
were used in wars ranging from the Second World War to the modern day.
You can see tanks, watercraft, aircraft, and even unique oddities like the Ford Pygmy,
the world's first Jeep.
Additionally, there's an outdoor area that is perfect for picnicking or watching special
events.
Huntsville Museum of Art
In the heart of downtown Huntsville, you'll find the Museum of Art right next to the Big
Spring International Park.
The museum features seven galleries which display a wide range of pieces and exhibits
throughout the year.
The museum also offers both adult and child art classes, a couple of dining options, and
a few shops.
Check the museum's schedule online before visiting to see what kinds of events and programs
they are currently offering.
They also feature a number of traveling and rotating exhibits throughout the year, meaning
each visit will be unique.
Bridge Street Town Centre
If you're searching for a laid-back experience, Bridge Street Town Center is a must-visit.
The center features over seventy shops, galleries, and restaurants, as well as a 5-acre lake,
several walking paths, and even train rides for the little ones.
Simply put, this town center offers a little something for everyone in your party.
If you come by during the weekend, there is usually live music to enjoy as well.
Burritt on the Mountain
Take yet another trip back in time to the 19th century while viewing authentic log cabins
and a rustic barnyard.
This attraction features period-appropriate interpreters that entertain and educate as
you take a tour of the mansion built by the eccentric millionaire Dr. Burritt.
The scenery here is also phenomenal, and the area features several hiking trails.
Railroad Station Antique Mall
If you're looking to get your shop on, this is a great spot to hunt for rare and unique
antiques.
The Railroad Station Antique Mall is a favorite among locals – and for good reason.
Here, you can find everything from furniture to toys to clothing and jewelry.
You could easily spend several hours exploring everything on all three floors.
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
For a truly unique musical experience, a trip to Alabama's oldest continually operating
symphony orchestra is a must.
The orchestra first opened way back in 1955, and ever since then, it's hosted classical
and pop performances as well as guest artists from around the globe.
Madison County Nature Trail
Located at the top of Green Mountain, this 70-acre park is known for its outstanding
views, well-maintained hiking trails, picnic tables, century-old covered bridge, and for
being the home of the State's oldest and biggest Champion Winged Elm Tree.
The park is absolutely breathtakingly beautiful and is sure to please nature lovers from all
walks of life.
Merrimack Hall Performing Arts Center
Located in Merrimack Mill Village, this performing arts center was founded in 2006.
Since its opening, the center has played a pivotal role in the revitalization of the
Merrimack Mill Village neighborhood.
In the last 13 years, the theater has reinvested more than half a million dollars bucks into
the community.
Visitors can take in one of many excellent shows and professional productions that are
sure to be hit with everyone in your family.
Dog Spot Dog Park
Due north of Downtown Huntsville, this dog park is open daily from sunrise to sundown.
Being the area's first dog park, this spot lets canine lovers socialize with their beloved
fur babies while potentially opening up a door for their owners to meet other humans
as well.
It's a fantastic place to give your pup a little exercise and is completely free.
It's even divided into several fenced-in areas for both large and small dogs.
Monte Sano State Park
Founded in 1938, this large park was added to the Alabama Registry of Landmarks and Heritage
in 1996.
The park sits on the astonishingly beautiful slopes of Monte Sano Mountain and features
several hiking trails, viewing platforms, picnic areas, and an authentic 1930s-era rustic
cottage.
Campsites with hook-ups are also available, making this the perfect destination for any
outdoor enthusiasts.
Land Trust of North Alabama
The Land Trust of North Alabama has long maintained its aim of preserving land and the beauty
of nature for the public's enjoyment.
Situated in the foothills of the Appalachians is the stunning Bethel Spring Preserve.
Visitors can take a tour of a quaint farm that's continued a tradition that began back
in the 19th century while marveling at the spring-fed creeks and waterfalls surrounding
it.
We're willing to bet that you now have an entirely new way of looking at Huntsville,
Alabama.
Sure, it's not a city that's known for being a popular vacation destination, but if you're
seeking a low-key, no-nonsense trip that will keep you and your family thoroughly entertained
without having to shell out an arm and a leg, Huntsville is a great place to start.
Did you know that Huntsville was Alabama's original capitol and that it was here that
the state's forefathers penned the Alabama constitution?
Let us know in the comments, and feel free to share any other tidbits that you might
know about Rocket City.
As always, thanks for watching, and happy travels!
We'll see you next time Viecationers.