We’ve all been there. It’s a Saturday, and you’re trying to make plans, but you can’t think of anything other than go to Bridge Street for the millionth time. Fear not; here’s a list of 14 things to do that aren’t at Bridge Street.
- Bike the Greenway – Huntsville is a town full of Greenways. A local favorite is the Wade Mountain Greenway. With almost two miles of a paved trail its perfect for an afternoon bike ride, but, if biking isn’t your style, the entire trail is about a ten-mile hike!
- Take a picnic to Big Spring Park – With the park renovations coming to a close it’s the perfect time to spend the day in Big Spring Park. Big Spring park is conveniently located in Downtown Huntsville. With the shops on Clinton Ave and the new bike share program, there is definitely plenty of fun to be had in Big Spring Park!
- Explore Lowe Mill – Lowe Mill is a local treasure right in the heart of Huntsville. Lowe Mill is a renovated shoe mill that is now home for many local artists and artisans. From popsicle shops to record stores and everything in between, there is literally something for everyone at Lowe Mill.
- Hammock in the Botanical Gardens – The Huntsville Botanical Gardens is home to one of the most gorgeous scenic landscapes in the South. Students can spend a full day in the gardens for just $10. This is the perfect place to set up your Eno (or borrow one of their hammocks) and spend the day relaxing and enjoying nature.
- Read a book in a local coffee shop – Huntsville is booming with local coffee shops. Some local favorites are A Cup of Everything, Olde Towne Coffee, and Alchemy Lounge. Curling up with a great local brew and a good book is the perfect way to spend a lazy Saturday.
- Visit Burritt on the Mountain – Located on the side of the mountain, Burritt on the Mountain is a fun way to spend the day! While here you’ll learn about the history of Huntsville and the mountain while basking in breathtaking views (seriously the view at sunset is a must see).
- Hike Monte Sano Mountain – Monte Sano Mountain is full of hiking trails of every length and difficulty. From the expert hiker who wants to spend the whole day on the mountain to the first time hiker who only wants to be there a couple hours, there’s a trail for everyone on Monte Sano!
- Go get a waffle at The Lumberyard – While The Lumberyard is known for being a music hangout, they have the best brunch. Once you visit The Lumberyard and have a waffle, you’ll never want to get brunch anywhere else.
- Take a mini road trip to Florence – Florence is about an hour from Huntsville and is the perfect place to take a day trip to. Florence is a town full of good music, good food, and fun times.
- Journal at Piper and Leaf – Piper and Leaf is the perfect place to sit and write out all your thoughts. Grab yourself a jar of your favorite tea and a pen because it’s easy to spend the day lost on your thoughts at Piper and Leaf.
- Visit the Space and Rocket Center – Remind yourself why Huntsville is called The Rocket City with a visit to The Space and Rocket Center! Not only will you learn all about NASA, you’ll also get to experience being an astronaut. Who doesn’t want to spend a day pretending to be an astronaut?
- Take a mini road trip to Fayetteville – Fayetteville, Tennessee is located about thirty miles north of Huntsville, and it’s like a trip back in time. Spend the day exploring antique shops, eating at local dinners, and getting the small town experience.
- Take a leisurely stroll on Green Mountain – If hiking and biking isn’t your style but you still want to get outside visit Green Mountain. The loop on Green Mountain is perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll while you catch up with a good friend.
- Spend a day in The Huntsville Museum of Art – With the exhibits changing every couple of months, The Museum of Art is definitely something to visit. Experience world-class art right here in Huntsville. The hand-picked exhibits are curated to reflect the culture of Huntsville, so they’re sure to please everyone.