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Big Spring International Park: Huntsville's Historic Heart

Discover Huntsville's birthplace and vibrant heart at Big Spring International Park, a blend of history, nature, and community events.

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Big Spring International Park, located in downtown Huntsville, Alabama, is built around the city's original water source, the Big Spring. This park offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and community engagement, hosting various events and attractions throughout the year.

A brief summary to Big Spring International Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check the Huntsville.org website for upcoming events like Concerts in the Park or food truck rallies.
  • Bring bread or fish food to feed the ducks, geese, and koi in the park's lagoon.
  • Visit during the Panoply Arts Festival in April for a vibrant celebration of arts and culture.
  • Take a stroll along the walking paths and enjoy the scenic views of the spring and surrounding downtown area.
  • Parking can be limited, especially during events, so arrive early or consider using nearby parking garages.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Big Spring International Park is easily accessible on foot from most downtown hotels, the Von Braun Center, and the Huntsville Museum of Art. From the intersection of Church Street and Clinton Avenue, walk south on Church Street. The park entrance will be immediately on your right. There are no costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Huntsville's Orbit public transit system has multiple routes that stop near Big Spring International Park. The closest stop is on Church Street SW. From the bus stop, walk south on Church Street to enter the park. A one-way fare is $1, with discounted fares of $0.50 for seniors (65+), students, and Medicare/Medicaid cardholders. Tickets can be purchased at the Huntsville Transit Center or via the Token Transit app.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide convenient access to Big Spring International Park. Request a drop-off at 200 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801, or near the Huntsville Museum of Art. Expect to pay around $8-$12 for a short ride from other locations in downtown Huntsville. Parking is available on the street, but can be limited. Paid parking is available at the Huntsville Parking Garage located at 300 Church Street for approximately $2 per hour.

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Discover more about Big Spring International Park

Big Spring International Park, often simply called Big Spring Park, is a beloved green space in the heart of Huntsville, Alabama. The park's history is deeply intertwined with the city's origins, as the Big Spring itself served as the primary water source for early settlers. In 1805, John Hunt, for whom Huntsville is named, built his cabin near the spring, recognizing its vital importance. The area was initially known as Hunt's Spring, marking the beginning of what would become the city of Huntsville. For many years, the spring supplied Huntsville with water. In 1823, the city developed the first public water system west of the Appalachian Mountains, utilizing the Big Spring as its source. A canal, known as the Fearn Canal or Indian Creek Canal, was constructed to transport cotton bales from Huntsville to the Tennessee River, further solidifying the spring's economic importance. While the Big Spring ceased to be the primary water source in 1957, the park continued to evolve as a recreational and cultural hub. In the late 1890s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, under Hiram Chittenden, renovated the spring area, enhancing its beauty and functionality. Today, the park hosts numerous events, including the Panoply Arts Festival, Concerts in the Park, and food truck rallies. The park's iconic red bridge and cherry trees, gifts from Japan, add to its international appeal. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, friendly ducks and geese, and the serene beauty of the spring-fed lagoon. Big Spring International Park remains a central gathering place for the Huntsville community, offering a blend of history, nature, and vibrant city life. Whether attending a concert, feeding the fish, or simply strolling along the water, the park provides a welcoming space for all.

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