Big Spring Park East: Huntsville's Historic Heart
Discover Huntsville's birthplace: a vibrant park with historical charm, natural beauty, and international treasures in the heart of downtown.
Big Spring Park East, nestled in downtown Huntsville, Alabama, is a verdant oasis surrounding the Big Spring, the city's original water source. With walking paths and the historic Indian Creek Canal, it offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park is a central gathering place, hosting events and showcasing international gifts, reflecting Huntsville's global connections.
A brief summary to Big Spring Park East
- Youth Athletic, 200 Church St SW Zone 1, Huntsville, Quigley, Alabama, 35801, US
- +1256-564-8026
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Explore the nearby historic district for a leisurely walking tour.
- Check the park's event schedule for festivals, concerts, and other activities.
Getting There
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Walking
Big Spring Park East is easily accessible on foot from most downtown locations. From the intersection of Church Street and Clinton Avenue, walk south on Church Street. The park entrance will be immediately on your right. No costs involved.
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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.
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Parking
Several parking garages and lots are available near Big Spring Park East. Garage M, located on Clinton Avenue behind the Hampton Inn, offers a short walk to the park. Metered parking is available on downtown streets for $0.50 per hour, enforced Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. Garage rates are $0.50 per hour with a maximum of $4 per day. Event parking is typically $5. The Passport Parking app allows for easy payment and session management.
Discover more about Big Spring Park East
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Scenethat Tours
0.1 km
Explore Huntsville's rich history and culture with Scenethat Tours, offering engaging experiences and insightful journeys through the city's hidden gems.
106 Jefferson Huntsville, Curio Collection by Hilton
0.2 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.
Donegan Block
0.2 km
Explore Huntsville's architectural heritage at the Donegan Block, a preserved example of 19th-century Italianate design on the city's historic Courthouse Square.
W. T. Hutchens Building
0.2 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.
Harrison Brothers Hardware
0.2 km
Experience Huntsville's history at Harrison Brothers Hardware, a unique gift shop showcasing local art and nostalgic charm since 1897.
Schiffman Building
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the Schiffman Building, a Richardsonian Romanesque gem in Huntsville's Eastside Square.
Catacomb 435
0.3 km
Discover Huntsville's best-kept secret: Catacomb 435, an underground speakeasy with handcrafted cocktails and a vintage vibe.
Washington Park
0.3 km
Discover a tranquil escape in downtown Huntsville at Washington Park, offering green spaces, community events, and a peaceful retreat.
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
0.4 km
Huntsville's premier concert hall in the Von Braun Center, hosting Broadway, ballet, symphonies, and more in a luxurious setting.
Mars Music Hall
0.4 km
Experience live music in an intimate setting at Mars Music Hall, downtown Huntsville's premier venue for concerts and comedy shows.
Times Building
0.4 km
Discover the historic Times Building in Huntsville, an Art Deco masterpiece and landmark that reflects the city's rich past and architectural beauty.
Von Braun Center
0.5 km
Huntsville's premier entertainment destination, hosting concerts, conventions, and events in the heart of downtown.
Lombardo Building
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
Discover unique treasures and timeless charm at Railroad Station Antiques, Huntsville's premier antique destination since 1984.
Unmissable attractions to see
Big Spring International Park
0.0 km
Discover Huntsville's historic birthplace, a scenic park with international charm and tranquil beauty in the heart of downtown.
Bicentennial Park
0.2 km
A downtown Huntsville park featuring a children's splash pad, green space, and community events, perfect for family fun and relaxation.
Alabama Constitution Hall Park
0.2 km
Experience 1819 Alabama at this living history museum in Huntsville, where the state's first constitution was drafted. Guided tours available!
EarlyWorks Children's Museum
0.2 km
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.
Huntsville Museum of Art
0.2 km
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.
Downtown Huntsville, Inc.
0.4 km
Explore Huntsville's vibrant heart: history, culture, dining, and entertainment converge in this dynamic downtown district.
Weeden House Museum and Garden
0.4 km
Discover Huntsville's history through the eyes of artist Maria Howard Weeden in her beautifully preserved 1819 home and gardens.
Thrasher Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
A serene landmark in Huntsville's Big Spring International Park, symbolizing community, remembrance, and healthy living.
Huntsville Escape Rooms
0.6 km
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
0.9 km
Your gateway to exploring Huntsville and Madison County: information, brochures, and expert advice for an unforgettable Rocket City experience.
Bud Cramer Park
0.9 km
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
1.2 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
1.8 km
Explore art, culture, and history at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment in Huntsville, AL—the South's largest privately-owned arts facility and a vibrant community hub.
Essential places to dine
Domaine South
0.1 km
Discover exquisite cheeses and fine wines at Domaine South - Huntsville's premier culinary destination for food lovers.
Cotton Row
0.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Cotton Row in Huntsville—where innovative American cuisine meets sophisticated ambiance.
Revivalist
0.2 km
Discover Revivalist in Huntsville - where Southern charm meets innovative cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Phat Sammy's
0.2 km
Discover Phat Sammy's: A Tiki Bar Restaurant Offering Tropical Flavors and Laid-Back Vibes in Huntsville.
Mazzara's Vinoteca
0.2 km
Experience Southern hospitality blended with authentic Italian flavors at Mazzara's Vinoteca in Huntsville.
BeeZr
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors at BeeZr in Huntsville – where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Pane E Vino Pizzeria
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pane E Vino Pizzeria in Huntsville - where gourmet pizzas meet delightful ambiance.
The Poppy and Parliament
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of England at The Poppy and Parliament in Huntsville – where traditional meets contemporary in every bite.
Commerce Kitchen
0.2 km
Discover authentic Southern flavors at Commerce Kitchen in Huntsville - where tradition meets modern culinary art.
The Martin
0.3 km
Experience Huntsville's vibrant dining scene at The Martin – where delicious food meets lively sports entertainment!
The Bottle
0.3 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at The Bottle in Huntsville, where every dish tells a story of local flavor and culinary innovation.
MELT HUNTSVILLE
0.3 km
Experience innovative American cuisine at MELT Huntsville – where generous portions meet unique flavor fusions.
Rhythm on Monroe
0.4 km
Discover Rhythm on Monroe in Huntsville, AL – where American cuisine meets lively entertainment in a vibrant setting.
Catch 25 Seafood & Brewery
0.4 km
Experience the best of seafood dining in Huntsville with fresh catches and handcrafted brews at Catch 25 Seafood & Brewery.
Purveyor
0.4 km
Discover the best of American cuisine at Purveyor in Huntsville - where local flavors meet exceptional service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Turkish Treasures
0.1 km
Explore the authentic charm of Turkish Treasures in Huntsville, a boutique offering unique crafts and cultural experiences in Alabama.
Museum Store
0.2 km
Explore Huntsville's Museum Store for unique gifts, local art, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Alabama.
AM Collective
0.3 km
Explore AM Collective in Huntsville, AL: a unique gift shop and vintage clothing store offering local artistry and unforgettable shopping experiences.
Extraordinary
0.3 km
Experience Huntsville's local flair at Extraordinary, a boutique offering unique fashion, art, and home decor for all tastes.
Huntsville Gear
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures at Huntsville Gear, the premier souvenir store in Huntsville, Alabama.
One Man's Vintage
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artistry at Creative State, the premier gift shop in Huntsville, Alabama.
Caley Paige
0.3 km
Explore Caley Paige in Huntsville for unique gifts and trendy clothing that capture the spirit of Alabama's local artistry.
Elitaire Boutique
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish treasures at Elitaire Boutique, Huntsville's charming shop for women's clothing, jewelry, and baby items.
Rivenbark & Roper Antiques
0.5 km
Explore Rivenbark & Roper Antiques in Huntsville, AL - a vintage haven for collectible furniture and timeless treasures.
Lawren*s
1.0 km
Explore Lawren*s Gift Shop in Huntsville for unique, handcrafted treasures and local souvenirs that capture the spirit of Alabama.
Mary's
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of beads and antiques at Mary's in Huntsville, Alabama - a treasure trove for every creative spirit.
Toy Place Downtown
1.3 km
Explore Huntsville's enchanting Toy Place Downtown, where imagination meets playfulness in a vibrant toy store experience.
AL Christopher Gifts
1.3 km
Explore AL Christopher Gifts in Huntsville for unique treasures, local crafts, and delightful souvenirs that reflect the charm of Alabama.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
0.2 km
Experience a delightful selection of wines at Domaine South Wine Shop & Wine Bar, where every sip tells a story in the heart of Huntsville.
Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill in Huntsville, where great food meets live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Baker & Able
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Baker & Able, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar offering inventive drinks in a stylish setting.
Jefferson Street Pub
0.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Jefferson Street Pub, a top bar and pub in Huntsville, Alabama, where great times await.
Stella's Elixir Lounge
0.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Stella's Elixir Lounge, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar featuring unique drinks, dance floors, and a welcoming vibe for all.
Whiskey Bottom saloon
0.3 km
Discover Whiskey Bottom Saloon, a vibrant bar in Huntsville, AL, offering a lively atmosphere, craft cocktails, and a taste of local nightlife.
Miller's Tavern
0.3 km
Discover Huntsville's vibrant nightlife at Miller's Tavern, where great drinks and karaoke await in a lively atmosphere.
SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
0.4 km
Experience luxury and relaxation at SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge in Huntsville, where exquisite cocktails and premium cigars await.
Lenae's Place
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntsville at Lenae's Place, where expertly crafted cocktails meet live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Twilite Restaurant & Lounge
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntsville at Twilite Restaurant & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
708 Bar and Grille
2.1 km
A lively bar in Huntsville, AL, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
The Brass Tap
2.1 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.
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.
Lone Goose Saloon
2.2 km
Discover Lone Goose Saloon in Huntsville, AL - a lively bar with craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Hickory House
2.2 km
Savor delicious grilled dishes and enjoy live karaoke at Hickory House, a must-visit restaurant in Huntsville, Alabama.
