Huntsville, Alabama may be known for rockets and science, but it is so much more than that. It’s a city where engineering meets artistry. Thanks to its dynamic combination of innovation and imagination, Huntsville is an ideal destination for weekenders who love museums, murals, galleries and live entertainment.
Creative Pulse: Explore Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
If there is one thing art lovers should visit when in Huntsville, it’s Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. As the largest privately owned art facility in the United States, you can easily spend a whole day exploring this historic textile mill. With over 150 studios for 300 artists and makers creating every type of art you can imagine, you’ll be astounded and inspired by the diverse creativity of the venue. During public hours, visitors can watch artists at work and chat with them about their process.
Before you wander too far, start with a fantasy-inspired coffee at Dragon Forge Cafe or a cup of homegrown tea from Piper & Leaf. If you get hungry, there are several restaurants in the mill showcasing culinary arts. Veloce Pizza makes their own dough and sauce, uses herbs from the on-site community garden and adds unique topping combinations to maximize flavor. Not only is Lowe Mill kid and pet friendly, but it also has free parking and no entry fee.
Museums That Inspire and Inform
Next, head downtown to the Huntsville Museum of Art for an extensive and permanent art collection and unique traveling exhibitions. Their galleries display American, European and non-western art in various mediums, with a focus on 19th and 20th century art from the American Southeast.
To learn about local history, architecture and local poet and painter Maria Howard Weeden, take a guided tour of the Weeden House Museum. Then visit Huntsville’s first museum, Burritt on the Mountain, which introduces guests of all ages to regional history, including 19th century rural life in Alabama.
Public Art + Murals: Street-Level Creativity
Huntsville’s creativity can be seen on its streets, but you need to know where to look. To start, wander the self-guided Huntsville Secret Art Walk & Mural Trail to discover murals, sculptures and stained glass throughout the Arts & Entertainment District. Then head to the Huntsville Botanical Garden to visit the Mother Earth Troll Garden featuring the whimsical Mama Zelda troll sculpture by Thomas Dambo. For the Instagrammers, you’ll find fun, post-worthy art at Lowe Mill, Campus No. 805 and Five Points.
Local Galleries and Creative Studios
For a taste of history, visit Harrison Brothers Hardware. What once operated as a hardware store in 1897, this Alabama gem now sells art and fine crafts, vintage toys, housewares, and seasonal goodies.
Once you’re done there, check out The Little Green Store & Gallery to browse art and gifts. Then check out work by members of the Huntsville Art League at its gallery at Lowe Mill or visit an independent gallery like Artistic Minds Gallery.
Events That Celebrate Creativity
Huntsville hosts several annual and seasonal events celebrating the arts. Every spring and fall, Lowe Mill hosts a Concerts on the Dock series, featuring weekly Friday night concerts on their loading dock turned stage.
The Market at Mid-City, open Sundays from mid-March through mid-November, is part farmer’s market, part maker’s market and 100% unmissable. In April, the Panoply Arts Festival features a juried show of new and returning artists, two stages filled with live music, a fleet of food trucks, plus, STEAM related children’s activities, including art adventures and a community art project.
From May through October, experience The Moonlight Market every second Friday, which offers an evening of shopping, local artists and live music in downtown Huntsville. In September, the Monte Sano Art Festival brings over 100 local, regional and national artists to showcase and sell their work in the beautiful (and shady) Monte Sano State Park. There’s also live music and food trucks to sustain you as you shop.
Where to Refuel: Artsy Eats and Cultural Cafés
For a coffee, a sandwich or a craft beer, head to Gold Sprint Coffee. With live music and an awesome vibe, you may want to kick back and stay awhile.
For a sweet treat that’s also a work of art, visit Pizzelle’s Confections. This award-winning chocolate shop is known for its truffles but they also serve drinks from the dessert cafe.
For additional options, explore more of Campus No. 805, a multi-use complex housing several restaurants, bars and breweries, including Rock n Roll Sushi and Ale’s Kitchen.