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Big Spring Park East: Huntsville's Downtown Oasis

Discover Huntsville's historic heart at Big Spring Park East, a revitalized green space in the city's vibrant downtown.

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Big Spring Park East is an essential part of Huntsville's identity, offering a blend of history, natural beauty, and community engagement. The park's story begins with the Big Spring itself, a natural spring that provided the fresh water source that was vital to the establishment of Huntsville. In 1805, Revolutionary War veteran John Hunt recognized the spring's value and settled nearby, naming the area Hunt's Spring. Over time, the area evolved into Big Spring Park, becoming a central gathering place for the community. The park has seen many changes over the years, including serving as the location for the city's first public water system in 1823 and hosting community baptisms. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, under the direction of Hiram Chittenden, renovated the spring site beginning in 1898. Today, Big Spring Park East is undergoing an expansion, with the former City Hall site being transformed into a 2.4-acre public greenspace. The expansion will include terraced plaza levels, a central pavilion with a green roof, new sidewalks, improved accessibility, landscaping upgrades, a children's playground, public art installations, and a water feature. This expansion aims to enhance the park's role as a recreational and cultural hub in downtown Huntsville.

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other community activities.
  • Take a stroll along the Indian Creek Canal, which connects the spring to the Tennessee River.
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A brief summary to Big Spring Park East

  • 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

Getting There

  • Walking

    Big Spring Park East 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. 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 Park East. 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.

  • Parking

    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. Several other parking garages and lots are located within walking distance of the park, including Garage M at 100 Church St. SW and the Clinton Ave Parking Deck. Metered parking is available on most downtown streets for $0.50 per hour, enforced Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Passport Parking app can be used to pay for metered parking.

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