Huntsville, Alabama has the reputation of hosting bright minds and techy engineers, but it’s also known for attracting creative “foodie” entrepreneurs who have perfected the art of whipping up delicious food and serving it up in unique places.
Combine the artsy vibe with a deep respect and honor of American history and you have the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.
I mean, where else can you can see rocket missiles, experience being “launched into space,” and then eat tacos on a converted school bus all in the same day?
Here’s a hint – nowhere else in America.
Nicknamed “Rocket City,” it was actually in Huntsville where rockets were first developed that one day sent men into space and to the moon.
Now that’s some serious history, and the locals couldn’t be more proud.
Huntsville is where it’s at, so we’ve put together a quick list of attractions you must check out should you find yourself down south.
U.S. Space And Rocket Center
Open 7 days a week, this educational museum will teach you everything about space history – and then some.
From daily space movies to rockets and space shuttle exhibits, you can spend hours immersed in the wonder of space.
Current featured exhibits include Apollo: When We Went To The Moon and Space Craze: A Space-Age Journey Through Pop Culture.
But one of the best parts of this museum is many of the exhibits are interactive.
Find out what it feels like to launch into space in the “moon shot” exhibit where you’re launched 140-feet in the air in only 2.5 seconds!
You can “visit Mars” by rock climbing on their Mars Rock Climbing Wall or experience gravity like an astronaut in the G-force accelerator!
After you explore the museum and learn all about space history, check out some of their evening events like Cocktails and Cosmos and discuss all things space.
Campus 805
This refurbished school building has been transformed into an entertainment hub where locals sip craft beer at Yellowhammer Brewing and chomp on wings and gourmet burgers at Ale’s Kitchen.
This incredible transformed building comes with everything from virtual golf to ballroom dancing.
And in true southern style, you can even get pampered at a salon and participate in civil axe throwing – all in the same location.
Now that’s hardcore.
U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum
Paying honor and respect to those who fought for our freedom, this museum has more than 30 military vehicles dating back to World War 1 – and even memorabilia and artifacts dating all the way back to the Revolutionary War.
They even have an outdoor exhibit featuring tanks, boats, and helicopters.
This museum is a must-see for history buffs and family and friends of America’s greatest generation.
Taqueria El Cazador
It’s always a good time to eat tacos.
And while taco’s might not typically be on your list of “must-eat foods” while in the South – there’s an exception to the rule.
Not only is Taqueria El Cazador known for their delicious and authentic Mexican food, but their Governors Drive location is actually a converted school bus – where you can order your lunch and eat inside the bus!
Oh, and not to mention they cost less than $2.00 a pop – so you can sample everything from tamales to burritos without going broke.
Eating the best Mexican food in town on a school bus is a unique experience you need to try at least once in your lifetime.
Southern Hospitality
If you’re looking for a unique trip to experience a city you may have never explored, then be sure to check out Huntsville.
Not only will you enjoy the history and fun exhibits – you’ll get to say you ate tacos on a school bus.
And of course, while you’re in the south, enjoy sipping real sweet tea and get your fill of good ol’ fashioned grits and country fried steak.
There ain’t nothin’ in this world better than southern hospitality (and southern food).
Have you ever been to Huntsville, Alabama? If not, which destination do you think you’d want to check out first?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with all your friends!
