Big Spring International Park, Tennessee Valley Travel Guide

4.8 (2612)

Discover Huntsville's historic heart at Big Spring International Park, a serene downtown oasis with international landmarks and family-friendly attractions.

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Big Spring International Park

Located in downtown Huntsville, Alabama, Big Spring International Park surrounds the city's original water source, a natural limestone spring that lured settlers over two centuries ago. Today, it's a tranquil green space with international features, a testament to Huntsville's history and community spirit.

A brief summary to Big Spring International Park

200 Church St SW, Huntsville, Quigley, Alabama, 35801, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Big Spring International Park.

Visit early to avoid crowds, especially during special events like the Tinsel Trail or Jazz in the Park.
Bring quarters to purchase food from dispensers to feed the fish and ducks from the red bridge.
Explore nearby attractions such as the Huntsville Museum of Art and local shops and restaurants surrounding the park.

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Huntsville Rocket City Smart Phone Self Guided Audio (GPS/APP) Walking Tour

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Huntsville Hunters Scavenger Hunt

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Getting There

Walking

Big Spring International Park is located downtown and 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. 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. Simply 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.
Driving

From Interstate 565, take the Church Street exit and head north. Parking is available in the City of Huntsville Garage M, located off Clinton Street between Monroe Street and Church Street, which offers free parking for some events. Street parking is also available but limited. Parking garages near the park charge around $2 per hour.

Discover more about Big Spring International Park

Big Spring International Park, often called the "crown jewel" of Huntsville, Alabama, is more than just a park; it's a living testament to the city's history and a vibrant hub for community life. Located in the heart of downtown, the park surrounds the Big Spring, the natural limestone spring that served as Huntsville's original water source, luring settlers to the area over two centuries ago. In 1805, John Hunt, the city's founder, established his residence near the spring, recognizing its vital importance as a water source. The community was originally named "Hunt's Spring".From the early 19th century until the mid-20th century, the Big Spring provided the city's water. The park's grounds also once housed the Fearn Canal, constructed in the 1820s to facilitate cotton transportation to the Tennessee River. The park's transformation into its current form began in 1898. The park expanded in 1968 and again in 2005, adding a lagoon and a canal alongside the Von Braun Center.Big Spring International Park is renowned for its international features, showcasing gifts from various countries. The most recognizable of these is the iconic red Japanese bridge and cherry trees, presented by Japanese Major General Mikio Kimata. Other gifts include a light beacon from Norway, a bench from the United Kingdom, and a sundial from Germany. A marble lion, a gift commemorating the park's opening, sits near the Big Spring Fountain. The park hosts numerous events, including the Panoply Arts Festival and Concerts in the Park. Children will love the ducks, geese, and koi that call the Big Spring home.