Things to Do in Huntsville & Madison, Alabama

Looking for exciting things to do in North Alabama? Huntsville—famous as Rocket City—and its neighbor Madison offer a perfect mix of space exploration, outdoor adventure, arts, shopping, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or exploring your own backyard, here are the best attractions and local experiences.

Top Attractions in Huntsville

U.S. Space and Rocket Center [MAP]

Discover Saturn V rockets, interactive STEM exhibits, and the history of Space Camp at the world’s largest space museum.

Huntsville Botanical Garden [M]

Over 120 acres of beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a popular butterfly house—perfect for families and nature lovers.

Monte Sano State Park [M]

Hike sandstone bluffs, bike singletrack trails, or enjoy sweeping views from the mountain overlooks. You can camp out for a multi-day stay.

Big Spring International Park & Downtown Huntsville [M]

A downtown landmark featuring koi ponds, a Japanese bridge, and easy access to galleries, shops, and restaurants. Other downtown attractions include The Huntsville Museum of Art [Map], Early Works [M], the Historic Huntsville Depot [M], the Huntsville Madison County Veterans Memorial [M], Constitution Hall Park [M], the Weeden House Museum [M], and the Twickenham Historic District [M], containing the largest collection of antebellum homes in the state.

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment [M]

The nation’s largest privately owned arts facility with studios, galleries, artisan shops, and live performances.

Burritt on the Mountain [M]

A historic park and museum offering cultural exhibits, interactive programs, and panoramic city views.

The Orion Amphitheater [M]

A world-class outdoor music venue hosting major concerts, festivals, and community events. The Orion has quickly become one of the Southeast’s premier destinations for live entertainment.

Von Braun Center (VBC) [M]

Home to concerts, hockey games, Broadway tours, large expos, and Mars Music Hall—always something happening in this multi-use venue.

Campus 805 [M]

A redeveloped school turned entertainment hub featuring breweries, restaurants, and live music venues.

Wicks Family Field at Joe Davis Stadium [M]

Home to the Huntsville City Football Club, a professional soccer team that plays in the MLS Next Pro league. It’s also known for its exotic car shows and other events.

Things to Do in Madison, AL

Toyota Field [M] – Home of the Rocket City Trash Pandas

Enjoy America’s favorite pastime with minor league baseball, family activities, fireworks, and one-of-a-kind team merch.

Downtown Madison Historic District [M]

Experience small-town charm with boutique shops, local cafés, and seasonal festivals.

Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve [M]

A favorite hiking spot with short trails, rocky outcrops, and beautiful views of the Tennessee Valley.

Dublin Park [M]

A community gathering place with playgrounds, sports fields, and recreation facilities.

Food & Entertainment Districts

MidCity District [M]

A modern entertainment hub offering restaurants, outdoor games, live music, food trucks, and family activities.

Stovehouse [M]

An open-air food garden with a variety of restaurants, patios, and frequent live shows in a relaxed atmosphere.

Suggested Itineraries

One Perfect Day in Huntsville

• Morning: Tour the U.S. Space & Rocket Center

• Lunch: Try Stovehouse or Campus No. 805

• Afternoon: Explore Huntsville Botanical Garden or hike Monte Sano

• Evening: Dinner downtown and a concert at The Orion Amphitheater or the VBC

Family Weekend

• Friday: Shop and stroll in The Bridge Street Town Center [M]

• Saturday: Explore one of the many of the North Alabama Land Trust trails for hiking or mountain biking.

• Evening: Cheer on the Rocket City Trash Pandas at Toyota Field.

• Sunday: Take a Sunday afternoon drive to Lake Guntersville and picnic at the Sunset Drive Walking Trail [M]. You can pick up fried chicken from the local Piggly Wiggly [M] once you get there.

Rainy Day Activities

• Explore museums like the Space & Rocket Center or Burritt

• Relax at Stovehouse or Campus 805

• Catch an indoor show or event at the VBC