Providence AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Providence, Alabama.
1. Grille on Main
SOUTHERN CUISINE WITH TWIST
Grille on Main is a restaurant opened in 2021 in the landmark building at Providence Village in Huntsville. The restaurant features Chef James Boyce's market-driven menu highlighting southern classics with a modern twist. Visitors can enjoy craft cocktails, local draft beers, and exceptional wines while listening to live music in this neighborhood establishment.
2. Village of Providence
CHARMING COMMUNITY DISTRICT
The Village of Providence is a quaint and charming area located right off Highway 72 in northwest Huntsville. It boasts "big city life and small town living" with its idyllic neighborhood atmosphere. The village offers dining, shopping, and community spaces that blend urban amenities with small-town charm.
3. U.S. Space & Rocket Center
SPACE EXPLORATION MUSEUM
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is Huntsville's premier attraction showcasing the city's rich space history. The center houses an impressive collection of rockets, space artifacts, and interactive exhibits related to America's space program. Visitors can experience simulator rides and learn about Huntsville's crucial role in the Space Race.
4. Burritt on the Mountain
HISTORIC MANSION MUSEUM
Burritt on the Mountain is a historic landmark featuring Dr. William Burritt's mansion and a living history museum. The site offers stunning panoramic views of Huntsville from its mountaintop location. Visitors can explore historic buildings, nature trails, and participate in educational programs about regional history.
5. Twickenham Historic District
PRESERVED ANTEBELLUM ARCHITECTURE
The Twickenham Historic District is one of Huntsville's most notable landmarks featuring Alabama's largest collection of antebellum homes. The district spans several blocks with beautifully preserved Federal, Greek Revival, and Italianate architecture. Walking tours allow visitors to step back in time while exploring these meticulously maintained historic residences.
6. Von Braun Center
ENTERTAINMENT & CONVENTION HUB
The Von Braun Center is a multi-purpose indoor event center named after rocket scientist Wernher von Braun. The center hosts concerts, sporting events, trade shows, and performing arts in its multiple venues. As a cultural cornerstone of Huntsville, it attracts both locals and tourists for a wide range of entertainment options.
7. Alabama Constitution Hall Park
BIRTHPLACE OF STATE HISTORY
Alabama Constitution Hall Park is a historic site where Alabama's first constitution was drafted in 1819. The museum features a recreated 1819 setting that showcases the birth of the state. Visitors can experience living history demonstrations and learn about Alabama's journey to statehood through interpretive exhibits.
8. Historic Huntsville Depot
CIVIL WAR ERA TRANSPORTATION
The Historic Huntsville Depot is a preserved railroad station dating back to 1860 that played a significant role during the Civil War. The three-story depot features exhibits showcasing the history of transportation and communication in the region. Visitors can see Civil War graffiti left by soldiers and explore vintage train cars on the grounds.
9. Weeden House Museum
ARTISTIC HISTORIC HOME
The Weeden House Museum was once home to female artist and poet Maria Howard Weeden, known for her detailed portraits of African Americans in the post-Civil War era. The Federal-style house built in 1819 is one of the oldest homes in Alabama. Tours of the museum showcase period furnishings and Maria Weeden's remarkable artistic legacy.
10. Huntsville Botanical Garden
NATURAL BEAUTY AND BUTTERFLIES
The Huntsville Botanical Garden spans 112 acres with stunning floral collections, nature trails, and specialized gardens. Its crown jewel is the nation's largest open-air butterfly house, seasonal from spring through fall. The gardens host numerous events throughout the year, including the magical Galaxy of Lights during the holiday season.
11. Huntsville Museum of Art
REGIONAL ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE
The Huntsville Museum of Art houses an impressive permanent collection of more than 3,000 objects with a focus on 19th and 20th century American art. The museum regularly hosts traveling exhibitions from around the world in its multiple gallery spaces. Located in Big Spring Park, it serves as a cultural centerpiece for the city with educational programs and special events.
12. Monte Sano State Park
MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS RETREAT
Monte Sano State Park offers 2,140 acres of pristine woodland on a mountain overlooking Huntsville. The park features more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails with stunning overlooks and abundant wildlife. Visitors can stay in historic CCC-built cabins, camp at designated sites, or enjoy picnicking and outdoor recreation throughout the year.
13. Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
CREATIVE COMMUNITY HUB
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment is America's largest privately owned arts facility, housed in a historic textile mill. The complex contains studios for over 200 artists and makers, galleries, performance venues, and unique shops selling handcrafted items. Visitors can watch artists at work, participate in workshops, and attend concerts and events in this vibrant creative community.
14. Rocket City Trash Pandas Stadium
MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL EXPERIENCE
The Rocket City Trash Pandas play at Toyota Field, a state-of-the-art minor league baseball stadium just outside Huntsville. The stadium offers family-friendly entertainment with special theme nights, fireworks displays, and unique food options including the mentioned chicken baskets. Fans can enjoy watching future MLB stars while experiencing the excitement of Minor League Baseball in a modern facility.
15. Big Spring Park
URBAN OASIS DOWNTOWN
Big Spring Park is a picturesque urban green space in downtown Huntsville built around the spring that led to the city's founding. The park features scenic walking paths, a large lagoon, colorful koi fish, and the iconic red bridge gifted by Japan. It serves as the hub for many city events including the annual Panoply Arts Festival and concerts throughout the year.