Huntsville, Alabama is just a short drive from the Magic City, making it an excellent choice for a fun day trip. Huntsville is known as the home of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, but there are so many other fun kids’ activities in the area. If you’re looking to plan an easy and fun day trip from Birmingham, you should consider Huntsville.
Where is Huntsville, Alabama?
Huntsville is approximately 102 miles north of Birmingham, just barely enough time for the kids to start thinking, “are we there yet?” You can get to Huntsville by car in less than two hours from the heart of Birmingham.
What kids’ activities are in Huntsville?
Huntsville is packed with fun activities that your kids will enjoy. Whether you are into historic sites and walking tours or educational programs and farm animals, you’ll find something to entertain children of all ages.
U.S. Space & Rocket Center
One of Huntsville’s most popular attractions is the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. The Space Center is great for any children who’ve ever said they want to be an astronaut when they grow up or those looking to explore what things are like in outer space.
Purchasing a General Admission ticket gives you access to the Saturn V Hall, Mood Crater, Military Park, Rocket Park I, Shuttle Park, Spark! Lab, ISS: Science on Orbit, and any featured exhibits, activities, and tours. You could easily spend hours at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center!
There is a play area and many things for you to see, touch, and experience. If your kid enjoys the day at the space center, you might want to inquire about their Space Camp.
Monte Sano State Park
If you and your family love the great outdoors, you’ll want to check out Monte Sano State Park. It’s a great place to get some fresh air, enjoy spectacular views, and spend time in nature.
The park is over 2,000 acres and consists of trails for both hiking and biking, as well as campgrounds. You can also find an 18-hole disc golf course and a playground area at Monte Sano. There are even cabins on-site if you decide to camp overnight. This State Park is a great place to play all day and is great for outdoor enthusiasts.
Big Spring International Park
Big Spring International Park is located in downtown Huntsville. It gets its name due to being built around “Big Spring”, the original water source for the city of Huntsville. The park is host to numerous events, concerts, and activities, so check the calendar to plan a visit during one of those fun events.
Guided History Tours
You can catch a free guided history tour if you travel to Huntsville during the spring or fall months. These walking tours are guided by local experts who share insight about the history of Huntsville. You can also get a tour of some historic homes and other historic buildings, like the Alabama Constitution Hall & Park Museum. Pets and strollers are welcome on the tour, so grab your little ones and head out to learn more about the historical aspects of the Rocket City.
Click here to learn more about the tours and for scheduling.
EarlyWorks Children’s Museum
If you’re looking for hands-on fun for your little ones, check out EarlyWorks museum. This museum is designed especially for children; it gives them unique and fun ways to learn and explore. There is a touch and learn area that provides kids with an up-close and interactive way to spend a few hours.
Hays Nature Preserve
If your family loves spending time in the great outdoors, then you’ll love Hays Nature Preserve. The preserve is 10+ miles of nature trails and greenways and is described as one of “Huntsville’s largest and most undeveloped parklands.”
You can spend the day hiking, mountain biking, or just enjoying the forest and wetlands. There’s also a huge natural playground developed using elements of nature that your kids will enjoy. The playground has a fort, a rock climbing wall, and a fun slide. You kids, no matter their ages, will find so many fun things to do at Hayes Nature Preserve.
If you are in search of picnic areas, you’ll find those at Hayes Nature Preserve, too. Your family can have a low-key lunch at one of the picnic tables or other areas located throughout the preserve.
Huntsville Museum of Art
Children love illustrations in books, cartoon characters, and other masterpieces. What better way to encourage their love of art than by visiting the Huntsville Museum of Art? This is a great museum because it’s not too large, so you can move through the exhibits before the children begin to get tired of this slow-paced activity. The museum regularly hosts camps, classes, and programs for children of all ages. Check out the museum’s website for a list of scheduled events.
Huntsville Botanical Garden
A visit to Huntsville is not complete without stopping by the Huntsville Botanical Garden. This garden is so impressive. The grounds are beautifully manicured and well-kept. Your family will definitely enjoy walking around here.
A kid-approved area at the garden is the Children’s Garden, which includes an open-air butterfly house. The butterfly house at the Huntsville Botanical Garden is the largest one in the nation!
Bridge Street Town Centre
If you need to do some shopping, head over to Bridge Street Town Centre! Bridge Street is a premier area for shopping, dining, and playing. Some popular shops at Bridge Street are Belk, H&M, Old Navy, ABC Toys, Gap Kids, and Barnes & Noble. There are also restaurants, hotels, and a movie theatre located on the property, making it a one-stop shop!
Other Fun Kids Activities in Huntsville, Alabama
- Urban Air Adventure Park
- Harmony Park Safari
- North Alabama Railroad Musem
- Let’s Play Huntsville
- Pump It Up Huntsville
- Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center
- Kidtopia Playland
- Burritt on the Mountain
Huntsville, Alabama is a great place for a day trip from Birmingham! It’s only a short drive and it’s packed with fun activities for kids. So, what are your favorite things to do in the Rocket City?
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