The Downtown Guide

Welcome to Downtown Huntsville—where there’s always something exciting to discover! Whether you’re craving a cold craft beer after the game, a perfectly brewed coffee before your meeting, or a one-of-a-kind gift from a local boutique, you’re in the right place. Downtown is packed with incredible dining, unique shopping, and top-notch attractions just waiting to be explored. Ready to plan the perfect day? Let our guide lead you to the best spots in the heart of the city!

The Downtown Explorer Card

Give the Gift of Downtown Huntsville this Holiday Season! Exploring Downtown Huntsville offers a delightful mix of unique boutiques, diverse dining options, and vibrant nightlife. From trendy local shops and cozy cafés to rooftop bars and live music venues, downtown has something for everyone! Learn more on our website to purchase the gift of Downtown Huntsville!

Tinsel Trail

Welcome to the 2025 Tinsel Trail season at Big Spring Park West. Enjoy strolling through the park, beautifully decorated with more than 400 Christmas trees. If you’re interested in reserving a tree for next year, you can find full details on our website.

Tinsel Trail Opening Day: November 28th

Get ready for one of Huntsville’s most magical holiday traditions! Tinsel Trail transforms Big Spring Park into a dazzling wonderland with over 400 live Christmas trees, each uniquely decorated by local businesses, nonprofits, and families.

Kick off the holiday season on Friday, November 28, 2025, at 6:00 PM with the official lighting of Downtown Huntsville’s Rocket City Tree, a can’t-miss moment of cheer, lights, and community spirit!

Come early for the special Black Friday Market from 2:00 – 9:00 PM, where you can shop local vendors throughout the park and grab festive bites from your favorite food trucks.

Starting at 5:15 PM, enjoy live performances from the Alabama Youth Ballet Theatre and other incredible local talent as the park comes alive with the sights and sounds of the season.

Don't miss this joyful celebration of community, creativity, and holiday magic in the heart of Downtown Huntsville!

Skating in the Park

Join the Huntsville Museum of Art for their fourteenth season! Enjoy Big Spring Park with all the fun activities on ice!

Running through:
November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2025

To learn more information, check out their website.

Unique Retail Spots

Downtown Huntsville’s retail scene is a treasure trove of unique finds, whether you're hunting for the perfect gift, a stylish holiday outfit, or that must-have piece of home décor. Stroll through charming boutiques, locally owned shops, and specialty stores brimming with curated collections you won’t find anywhere else. From trendy fashion and handcrafted jewelry to Huntsville-themed souvenirs and artisan goods, every shop offers something special. No matter the occasion, downtown’s vibrant retail scene has exactly what you need to shop local and find something unforgettable!

**Clinton Row Shops**

Clinton Avenue is home to many unique, small businesses. The Downtown Storage is a popular shopping center that houses local artisan shops that are set up in storage units. Other businesses located on Clinton Avenue includes Caley Paige, Elitaire, In Bloom, and Roosevelt & Company.

**Harrison Brothers Hardware**

You won’t find actual hardware at this store! Harrison Brothers is one of the oldest shops in Huntsville. It used to be a hardware and furniture store, but it was preserved by the Huntsville Historic Foundation. Now, the store carries a variety of merchandise made by local artisans, and it also has a free historic museum inside!

**Gas Light Alley at Stovehouse**

Along the cobblestone path of Gas Light Alley is a village of shops ranging from flowers to fitness. The unifying magic of Gas Light Alley is found in the shop owners themselves. Every shop on Gas Light Alley at Stovehouse is a locally-owned and woman-owned small business.

**Lincoln Mill Shops**

Lincoln Mill offers an eclectic array of retail businesses. Shop for home decor and greenery at Brooks & Collier, fine leather goods at Holtz Leather Co., and reclaimed antiques from Preservation Co.

**Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment**

Lowe Mill is a huge historic factory building has been redeveloped into 152 working studios for over 200 artists and makers, 7 galleries, a theatre, community garden, and performance venues. Lowe Mill is packed with fun activities, and there are food options on-site, making it a perfect place to spend a day.

**Five Points**

Five Points is a hidden gem filled with locally owned restaurants, unique retailers, and a local grocer. Explore an independent bookstore, a charming toy shop, and an array of boutiques offering one-of-a-kind gifts and home décor. Whether you're shopping for a special occasion or just exploring, Five Points has something exciting waiting for you!

Dining Options

Craving a delicious meal or the perfect cocktail? Downtown Huntsville has something for every taste! From sushi to mouthwatering wings, craft beer to top-shelf tequila, the options are endless. Whether you're heading out for a night on the town, grabbing a bite before a show at the Von Braun Center, or unwinding after a long day, you'll find incredible dining and drink spots—all just a short walk from downtown hotels and attractions.