Looking for things to do with your family this summer? Look no further than some of our favorite North Alabama Landmarks! The city of Huntsville and surrounding areas are rich with natural beauty and history to explore. We’ve compiled a list of 4 unique landmarks in North Alabama that will leave you inspired and with wonderful memories.
U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Huntsville is proudly home to the largest space museum in the world: the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Not only is America’s space program on display in Huntsville, the way for it was paved in Huntsville! We’re known as the “Rocket City” because Huntsville, Alabama is where rockets were developed that put men on the moon.
Those from all walks of life can enjoy Alabama’s top tourism spot. You will find permanent and traveling exhibits that are sure to thrill!
Visit the website: https://www.rocketcenter.com/
Huntsville Botanical Garden
Want to spend some time outside? Explore Huntsville Botanical Garden’s 112 acres of grassy meadows, woodland paths, aquatic habitats, and stunning florals.
Stroll along the nature trails while admiring collections of Alabama’s native plants. Let your little ones play in the Children’s Garden after seeing the fluttering butterflies in the nation’s largest open-air butterfly house. Find peace in the cool shade of the trees, surrounded by the sounds of nature. With additional events, exhibits, and programs throughout the year, the Garden is a source of plant conservation, education, and celebration for all!
Visit the website: https://hsvbg.org/
Ave Maria Grotto
In the mood to see something unique? Head a little bit south to see the Ave Maria Grotto! Located in Cullman, the Ave Maria Grotto is on the grounds of St. Bernard Abbey, the only Benedictine monastery of men in the State of Alabama. The Abbey was founded in 1891. The Grotto consists of a landscaped hillside of 125 small stone and cement structures, the handiwork of the creative genius, Brother Joseph Zoetl, O.S.B., a monk of the Abbey for almost 70 years.
Follow a serene two-block pathway that winds beside miniature buildings, passing in front of a large cavern-like grotto on the lower level of the hillside. Opened in 1934 on the site of a former stone quarry used by the Abbey, the Grotto was a continuation of the work of Brother Joseph, who built his first replicas in about 1912 and his last, the miniature of the beautiful Lourdes Basilica Church, in 1958. It was constructed when he was 80 years old!
Visit the website: https://www.avemariagrotto.com/
Point Mallard Park
What is more synonymous with summer than fun in the sun with water involved? The whole family can find their fix at Point Mallard Park.
Located in Decatur, Alabama, this 750-acre park has camping, hiking trails, biking trails, and a golf course. The large water park features a wave pool, Olympic-size diving pool, water slides, and kiddie pools. You can even ice skate year-round at the ice skating complex! Many exciting events are hosted at Point Mallard throughout the year so be sure to check the website for upcoming events.
Visit the website: http://www.pointmallardpark.com
