Big Spring International Park: Huntsville's Historic Heart
Discover Huntsville's historic birthplace: a vibrant park with international flair, natural beauty, and year-round events by the Big Spring.
Big Spring International Park, located in downtown Huntsville, Alabama, is built around the city's original water source, the Big Spring. This 12.5-acre park offers green space, walking paths, and iconic features like the red Japanese bridge, attracting visitors for relaxation, events, and enjoying the friendly ducks and koi.
A brief summary to Big Spring International Park
- 200 Church St SW, Huntsville, Quigley, Alabama, 35801, US
- +1256-883-3754
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early to avoid crowds, especially during events like the Tinsel Trail or Panoply Arts Festival.
- Bring quarters to purchase food from dispensers to feed the fish and ducks, especially near the red bridge.
- Explore nearby attractions such as the Huntsville Museum of Art, the Von Braun Center, and local shops and restaurants.
- Check the Huntsville.org website for upcoming events, including food truck rallies and concerts.
Getting There
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Walking
Big Spring International Park is located in downtown Huntsville, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. From the Huntsville Museum of Art, simply exit the museum and walk north. The park is directly adjacent to the museum. From the Madison County Courthouse, walk west towards the park. The park is located just off the courthouse square.
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Public Transport
Huntsville's public transit system, Orbit, has several routes that stop near Big Spring International Park. Check the Huntsville Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Route 2 stops at Church & Clinton NB, a short walk from the park's main entrance. From the bus stop, walk south on Church Street towards the Big Spring International Park. One-way fare is $1, or $0.50 for seniors, students, and disabled individuals. Tickets can be purchased at the Huntsville Transit Center or via the Token Transit app.
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Driving
Big Spring International Park is located at 200 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801. From Interstate 565, take the Church Street exit and head north. Parking is available in the park's parking lot and in nearby parking garages. Metered street parking is also available, but can be limited. The City of Huntsville Garage M, located off of Clinton Street between Monroe Street and Church Street, offers free parking for concertgoers during Concerts in the Park events. Parking garages typically cost around $2-$3 per hour. Street parking costs $0.50 per hour.
Discover more about Big Spring International Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scenethat Tours
0.0 km
Explore Huntsville's rich history and culture with Scenethat Tours, offering engaging experiences and insightful journeys through the city's hidden gems.
Alabama Historical Marker
0.1 km
Explore Huntsville's vibrant past through its historical markers, each a portal to significant events and figures that shaped the Rocket City's unique heritage and Alabama's story.
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
0.2 km
Huntsville's premier concert hall in the Von Braun Center, hosting Broadway, ballet, symphonies, and more in a luxurious setting.
106 Jefferson Huntsville, Curio Collection by Hilton
0.3 km
Experience Huntsville's spirit at 106 Jefferson, a Curio Collection hotel offering luxurious accommodations, chef-driven dining, and a rooftop lounge with stunning city views in the heart of downtown.
W. T. Hutchens Building
0.3 km
Explore the W. T. Hutchens Building in Huntsville, a landmark of Early Commercial architecture and a testament to the city's rich history, located in the heart of downtown.
Mars Music Hall
0.3 km
Experience live music in an intimate setting at Mars Music Hall, downtown Huntsville's premier venue for concerts and comedy shows.
Donegan Block
0.3 km
Explore the Donegan Block in Huntsville, a historic landmark showcasing 19th-century Italianate architecture on Courthouse Square.
Catacomb 435
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Discover Huntsville's best-kept secret: Catacomb 435, an underground speakeasy with handcrafted cocktails and a vintage vibe.
Von Braun Center
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Huntsville's premier entertainment destination, hosting concerts, conventions, and events in the heart of downtown.
Harrison Brothers Hardware
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Experience Huntsville's history at Harrison Brothers Hardware, a unique gift shop showcasing local art and nostalgic charm since 1897.
Schiffman Building
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Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the Schiffman Building, a Richardsonian Romanesque gem in Huntsville's Eastside Square.
Washington Park
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Discover a tranquil escape in downtown Huntsville at Washington Park, offering green spaces, community events, and a peaceful retreat.
Times Building
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Discover the historic Times Building in Huntsville, an Art Deco masterpiece and landmark that reflects the city's rich past and architectural beauty.
Lombardo Building
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Explore Huntsville's history at the Lombardo Building, home to Railroad Station Antiques, a treasure trove of vintage finds and collectibles since 1922.
Railroad Station Antiques
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Discover unique treasures and timeless charm at Railroad Station Antiques, Huntsville's premier antique destination since 1984.
Unmissable attractions to see
Big Spring Park East
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Discover Huntsville's historic heart at Big Spring Park East, a downtown oasis with a scenic canal and tranquil atmosphere.
Huntsville Museum of Art
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Discover a world of art in the heart of Huntsville at the Huntsville Museum of Art, showcasing American masterpieces and diverse collections in a vibrant cultural hub.
Bicentennial Park
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A downtown Huntsville park featuring a children's splash pad, green space, and community events, perfect for family fun and relaxation.
EarlyWorks Children's Museum
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Explore history and science through hands-on play at Huntsville's EarlyWorks Children's Museum, where learning is an adventure for kids of all ages.
Alabama Constitution Hall Park
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Experience 1819 Alabama at this living history museum in Huntsville, where the state's first constitution was drafted. Guided tours available!
Thrasher Memorial Fountain
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A serene landmark in Huntsville's Big Spring International Park, symbolizing community, remembrance, and healthy living.
Downtown Huntsville, Inc.
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Explore Huntsville's vibrant heart: history, culture, dining, and entertainment converge in this dynamic downtown district.
Weeden House Museum and Garden
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Discover Huntsville's history through the eyes of artist Maria Howard Weeden in her beautifully preserved 1819 home and gardens.
Huntsville Escape Rooms
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Experience thrilling escape room adventures in Huntsville! Solve puzzles, crack codes, and race against the clock for an unforgettable time.
Huntsville Madison County Veterans Memorial
0.7 km
A place for reflection and gratitude, honoring the courageous veterans of Huntsville and Madison County, Alabama. Open daily 5 AM to midnight.
Huntsville Depot Museum
0.7 km
Discover Alabama's oldest railway depot, from Civil War stories to the dawn of the space age, in downtown Huntsville.
Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center - Downtown
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Your gateway to exploring Huntsville and Madison County: information, brochures, and expert advice for an unforgettable Rocket City experience.
Bud Cramer Park
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Discover Bud Cramer Park in Huntsville: A charming blend of history and recreation in the heart of the Old Town Historic District.
Maple Hill Cemetery
1.3 km
Explore Huntsville's history at Maple Hill Cemetery, Alabama's largest and oldest municipal cemetery, with over 80,000 graves.
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
1.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Pane E Vino Pizzeria
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pane E Vino Pizzeria in Huntsville - where gourmet pizzas meet delightful ambiance.
Domaine South
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Discover exquisite cheeses and fine wines at Domaine South - Huntsville's premier culinary destination for food lovers.
Rhythm on Monroe
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Revivalist
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Discover Revivalist in Huntsville - where Southern charm meets innovative cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Mazzara's Vinoteca
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Phat Sammy's
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Cotton Row
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Experience culinary excellence at Cotton Row in Huntsville—where innovative American cuisine meets sophisticated ambiance.
BeeZr
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The Poppy and Parliament
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Commerce Kitchen
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Discover authentic Southern flavors at Commerce Kitchen in Huntsville - where tradition meets modern culinary art.
The Martin
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Experience Huntsville's vibrant dining scene at The Martin – where delicious food meets lively sports entertainment!
MELT HUNTSVILLE
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Experience innovative American cuisine at MELT Huntsville – where generous portions meet unique flavor fusions.
The Bottle
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Discover exquisite American cuisine at The Bottle in Huntsville, where every dish tells a story of local flavor and culinary innovation.
CO/OP Community Table + Bar
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Experience Huntsville's vibrant culinary scene at CO/OP Community Table + Bar—where brunch meets innovative cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Purveyor
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Discover the best of American cuisine at Purveyor in Huntsville - where local flavors meet exceptional service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Museum Store
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Explore Huntsville's Museum Store for unique gifts, local art, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Alabama.
Turkish Treasures
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AM Collective
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Explore AM Collective in Huntsville, AL: a unique gift shop and vintage clothing store offering local artistry and unforgettable shopping experiences.
Extraordinary
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Experience Huntsville's local flair at Extraordinary, a boutique offering unique fashion, art, and home decor for all tastes.
Huntsville Gear
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Discover unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures at Huntsville Gear, the premier souvenir store in Huntsville, Alabama.
One Man's Vintage
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Discover unique vintage clothing and accessories at One Man's Vintage in Huntsville, Alabama, where fashion history comes alive.
Silhouette For The Goddess In You Darling
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Discover chic women's fashion at Silhouette For The Goddess In You Darling, Huntsville's boutique gem offering style, quality, and personalized service.
Creative State
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Caley Paige
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Explore Caley Paige in Huntsville for unique gifts and trendy clothing that capture the spirit of Alabama's local artistry.
Elitaire Boutique
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Rivenbark & Roper Antiques
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Lawren*s
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Mary's
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The Topiary Tree
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Toy Place Downtown
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Baker & Able
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Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
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Experience a delightful selection of wines at Domaine South Wine Shop & Wine Bar, where every sip tells a story in the heart of Huntsville.
Stella's Elixir Lounge
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Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
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Jefferson Street Pub
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Whiskey Bottom saloon
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Miller's Tavern
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SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
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Lenae's Place
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntsville at Lenae's Place, where expertly crafted cocktails meet live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Twilite Restaurant & Lounge
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntsville at Twilite Restaurant & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Brass Tap
2.0 km
Explore The Brass Tap in Huntsville, a premier bar offering over 80 craft beers on tap, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere for all beer enthusiasts.
708 Bar and Grille
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A lively bar in Huntsville, AL, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Lone Goose Saloon
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Discover Lone Goose Saloon in Huntsville, AL - a lively bar with craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Copper Top Bar & Grill
2.2 km
Discover Copper Top Bar & Grill in Huntsville, Alabama – a delightful fusion of grilled flavors and vibrant nightlife awaits you.
Hickory House
2.3 km
Savor delicious grilled dishes and enjoy live karaoke at Hickory House, a must-visit restaurant in Huntsville, Alabama.
