Nicknamed “The Rocket City”, Huntsville is the birthplace of America’s space program and is rich in both history and technology. Packed with museums, galleries and historical landmarks, Huntsville also provides plenty of fascinating cultures.

Things to do

The U.S. Space & Rocket Centre is a must-see in Huntsville, boasting the most extensive space collection in the world. You can discover everything from spacecraft and rockets to space simulators and next-generation vehicles.

If you’d prefer to keep a firm grip on the past, visit Burritt on the Mountain, a unique heritage museum housed in a remarkable 14-room mansion. Step back in time as you explore the historic home and gardens, meet farm animals and learn about rural life in the mid-1800s. For panoramic views of the Tennessee Valley, follow one of the mansion’s many nature trails.

Beautiful scenery can be found in Huntsville Botanical Gardens, a stunning 48-hectare park with welcoming woodland paths, vast grassy meadows and year-round florals. Visit the nation’s most robust open-air butterfly house and learn the importance of plants at the Nature Centre. The kids will love playing in the educational Children’s Garden, which is full of mazes, water features and dinosaurs.

Do you like a touch of history with your tea? Be charmed by traditional southern hospitality at the award-winning Cotton Row Restaurant. Inspired by the early Huntsville cotton traders, the restaurant is set in a three-storey red-brick building dating back to 1821.

Getting around

Huntsville is easily reached by plane, train, bus or car. Huntsville International Airport is a 15-minute drive from downtown Huntsville. By car, Huntsville is two hours from Nashville and 3.5 hours from Atlanta and Memphis. Once in Huntsville, the easiest way to get around is by car.