The Downtown Explorer
Downtown Restaurants Open on Turkey Day
Not in the mood to cook this Thanksgiving? Downtown Huntsville has you covered! Several of our amazing restaurants are open on Thanksgiving Day. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly feast, a cozy dinner for two, or something a bit out of the ordinary, there’s something for everyone.
The Snail on the Wall: A Bookstore for Everyone
Since its inception in 2017, The Snail on the Wall has been a unique and innovative presence in Huntsville’s literary scene.
“The Snail on the Wall started as a bookstore without a store. We did pop-up events, we did author events, we delivered books to doorsteps every day. And we enjoyed being a non-traditional bookstore for a while,” co-owner Lady Smith explained.
Rockin’ Around the Rocket City Returns
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) and the Huntsville Museum of Art are proud to partner again this year for the second annual Rockin’ Around the Rocket City, which features three holiday attractions in Big Spring Park: Skating in the Park, Tinsel Trail and the Rocket City Tree.
Holiday Shopping Guide in Downtown Huntsville
The holidays are just around the corner! If you are looking for some places to shop, listed below are some holiday markets and unique retail spots around Downtown Huntsville.
Top Collegiate Beach Volleyball Teams Compete for National Title in Huntsville This Weekend
This weekend, Huntsville is set to host the highly anticipated American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Collegiate Beach National Championships, an event that will spotlight top collegiate beach volleyball talent from across the country.
Discover Pure Barre Huntsville: Where Community Meets Fitness
Located in Huntsville, Alabama, Pure Barre is a unique fitness studio co-owned by Angelica Lee and Susanna Chesser. They've been involved with Pure Barre since 2012, but took ownership six years ago, bringing their shared vision to the Huntsville community.
8 Must-Try Dessert Spots in Downtown Huntsville
Downtown Huntsville is a hidden gem for dessert lovers! From decadent cakes to creamy ice cream, there’s no shortage of delicious treats to satisfy your cravings. Here’s some of the best places to grab a treat in the heart of the city.
Huntsville’s USA Table Tennis Nationals Recognized as a 2024 Champion of Economic Impact
The USA Table Tennis Nationals, held in July at the Von Braun Center’s South Hall, has been awarded the title of a 2024 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management.
Brunch Spots You Need to Try in Downtown Huntsville
Discover Downtown Huntsville’s best brunch spots! From rustic bistros to trendy eateries, Downtown Huntsville is brimming with unique brunch spots to satisfy each craving.
Rocket City Classic Brings Top-Tier College Basketball to Huntsville
The Rocket City Classic is set to return to Propst Arena on Monday, October 28, bringing Alabama men’s basketball back to Huntsville for a highly anticipated matchup against the Memphis Tigers. The exhibition game is part of an NCAA-approved event that will benefit the Huntsville Hospital Foundation’s Heartbeat Heroes project.
Recharge and Explore: EV Charging Spots Around Downtown Huntsville
If you’re out and about and need to find a place to charge your electric vehicle, here is a list of some EV charging stations around Downtown Huntsville.
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. Presents the Downtown Pickleball Takeover
Downtown Huntsville will be transformed into a vibrant pickleball hub on Saturday, October 26, as Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) and the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau present the Downtown Pickleball Takeover.
Weekend Events- Fall and Halloween Edition!
From Halloween movies, to pickleball, to artisan markets— there’s something for everyone this weekend in Downtown Huntsville! Make sure to mark your calendars for any of these spooktacular events.
Downtown Huntsville: Then vs. Now
Happy Huntsville History Month! Huntsville’s heritage will be celebrated throughout the entire month of October as part of Huntsville History Month. In honor of that, here is a little peek into some of Huntsville’s amazing history!
The Art and Science Behind Irons One Distillery
Irons One Distillery, located in Huntsville’s Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, is a small-batch distillery known for its handcrafted bourbon. For 40 years, owner and master distiller Jeff Irons has been perfecting his craft, creating a product that stands out in both Alabama and the wider whiskey market.
Must-Try Fall Menu Items in Downtown
It is officially October! If you’re craving some fall-inspired treats to get you in a cozy mood, this is the list for you.
Downtown Fall Bucket List
Starting to get excited about the Fall season just around the corner? Here is a list of some recurring Fall festivities going on in Downtown Huntsville this season.
Weekend Events
It is a busy weekend in beautiful Downtown Huntsville! If you’re on the lookout for weekend plans, keep reading for a list of some events to attend.
From Feed and Seed to Furniture Expertise: The Story of Brooks & Collier Commercial
As Foster Brooks recounts, the Brooks & Collier story started back when Huntsville was a major agriculture town. The original shop, a feed and seed business, sold everything from farming supplies to baby chickens. But as the city grew, so did Brooks & Collier.
6 Spots for Game Day in Downtown
On the lookout for a spot to grab a drink and watch a game? Look no further, here’s a list of some downtown establishments with lots of TV’s for your viewing needs.
Sweet Support: Raising Childhood Cancer Awareness with The Moon Bakeshop & Smile-A-Mile
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness about the impact childhood cancer has on children and families worldwide. Here in Huntsville, a special collaboration is shining a light on this cause while also supporting a beloved local business and a life-changing organization.
Celebrating Huntsville Music Month
Huntsville is hitting all the right notes this September as the city celebrates Huntsville Music Month. Organized by the Huntsville Music Office, this month-long celebration is all about highlighting local talent, fostering collaboration, and supporting the city’s dynamic community of artists.
Get to Know the Owners of One Man’s Vintage
We’re Caleb and Anna, the co-owners of One Man’s Vintage.
Everything You Need to Know About Jazz in the Park 2024
Jazz in the Park Huntsville 2024 is set to kick off on September 1 and 2, marking the start of Huntsville Music Month. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and world-class performances, Jazz in the Park has grown to become a beloved event in Huntsville since its inception in 2015.
Downtown Weekend Events
On the lookout for fun things to do this weekend? Look no further! Here is a list of exciting events going on in beautiful Downtown Huntsville this weekend.
The Vegabonds, S.G. Goodman to Headline Upcoming 805 After Five Concerts
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. and the Huntsville Music Office are excited to announce the headliners for the upcoming September and October installments of 805 After Five.
Complete the Downtown Decathlon and Claim Your Prize!
There’s still time to complete your Downtown Decathlon card to win a free Downtown Huntsville t-shirt!
Cozy Corners for Remote Work
Need a change of scenery or a break from the office? Here are a few of many work spots in Downtown Huntsville to change up your work environment.
Savor the Collaboration: Downtown Huntsville Establishments Unite During Culinary Month
These downtown establishments are partnering together to bring delicious creations to the Rocket City, just in time for Huntsville Culinary Month!
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. Presents a Week of Exciting Events
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) is thrilled to present an exciting lineup of events this week, offering something for everyone to enjoy. From live music to local art, and food truck feasts to NASA celebrations, the Heart of Huntsville will be alive with activity, making this the perfect time to experience everything downtown has to offer.
Global Flavors in Downtown
In honor of Huntsville Restaurant Week, here are some global flavors around downtown for you to explore. Expand your taste buds with diverse meals right here in Huntsville.
Celebrating Five Years of Scenethat Tours
Since its inception in 2019, Scenethat Tours has been offering unique, year-round guided tours of Huntsville, Alabama. Tour Director Denise Swain shares her journey and the evolution of her company, emphasizing its dedication to showcasing Huntsville’s rich history and vibrant culture.
A Day in Downtown for Art Lovers
Are you wanting to explore and discover the art scene in Downtown Huntsville? Here are a few places and events for you to do just that.
Must-Attend End of Summer Events
July is coming to an end and that means summer is nearly over. Make sure you soak up the last bits of summer fun with these exciting events happening around downtown this week!
Explore Downtown Huntsville with the Downtown Decathlon
On your mark, get set, GO! Race to complete your Downtown Decathlon Card. Visit all 10 stops on the card by September 30th to redeem it for a free prize!
"Legacy of the Invisible" Event Rescheduled Due to Weather Concerns
Due to ongoing rainy weather conditions, Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) is rescheduling the “Legacy of the Invisible” celebratory event. The event will now take place on August 16, still happening at 6 pm at the corner of Clinton Avenue and Washington Street.
Rainy Day Activities in Downtown
Is the weather cramping your style? Don't worry, we've got your back with some exciting ideas of what to do downtown on a rainy day.
Downtown Celebration Highlights Artwork Commemorating Huntsville’s Contributions to Astrophysics
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) is excited to host a special celebration of "No Straight Lines," a new downtown artwork by local artist Float.
Mark Your Calendar for These Upcoming DHI Events
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. has plenty of exciting events coming up in the next two weeks! Read more to learn a bit about what to expect from each upcoming event.
Everything You Need to Know About Huntsville’s Newest Coworking Space
Coin Coworking, Huntsville’s newest premier coworking space founded by Will Harbison, has established two locations in the downtown footprint. Coin offers a sleek and professional environment for workers who lack traditional brick-and-mortar office spaces.
Weekly Trivia Spots Around Downtown
If you’re wanting to show off your trivia knowledge, there are plenty of places in Downtown Huntsville for you! Grab your friends and try out some of these spots for a fun night out.
Escape the Heat with 6 Indoor Fitness Studios in Downtown
If you’re looking for some fun new ways to stay active this summer, we’ve got your back with a few places to try. Stay away from the summer heat with these indoor fitness establishments!
Fourth of July Events to Attend in Downtown
Happy Fourth of July! Celebrate the holiday in Downtown Huntsville with these four amazing events.
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. Hosts Successful Weekend Events, Drawing Over 22,000 Attendees
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) celebrated a bustling weekend with four major events, drawing over 22,000 people to the downtown area. The diverse lineup of activities attracted a wide range of attendees, showcasing the vibrancy and appeal of the city’s core.
Billy Allen + The Pollies, Aaron Lee Tasjan to Headline Upcoming 805 After Five Concerts
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. and the Huntsville Music Office are thrilled to announce the headliners for the upcoming July and August installments of 805 After Five.
Downtown Huntsville Retail Therapy
Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or just looking for some retail therapy, Downtown Huntsville is the place for you!
Fun Weekend Events in Downtown Huntsville
Downtown Huntsville is the place to be this weekend, with amazing events happening each day. Keep reading to find the perfect event for you to attend!
Mocktail Roundup
Wanting a fun little drink but not feeling up for alcohol? Here is a list of some places with refreshing mocktails for you to try.
Beyond the Music: Exciting Activities at 805 After Five
805 After Five is our free concert series that occurs on the third Thursday of each month including yard games, interactive activities, food trucks, and great beer. But, did you know that it’s more than just a concert? Your new favorite hangout session at Butler Green has more exciting activities beyond the music!
6 Father’s Day Events Happening in Downtown
Happy Father’s Day! Make plans to bring your loved one downtown to celebrate with fantastic events happening all weekend long.
Late Night Bites in Downtown Huntsville
Having fun in Downtown Huntsville can make you work up an appetite. Need a list of some places you can go for a late night meal? Look no further!
Lilly Hiatt to Headline 805 After Five Concert
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) is excited to welcome Lilly Hiatt to Huntsville as the headliner for this month’s 805 After Five event on June 20.
Hiatt is a singer-songwriter from Nashville, TN, renowned for her candid and heartfelt lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. Daughter of acclaimed musician John Hiatt, she has carved out her own niche in the music world, blending elements of rock, country, and Americana to create a sound uniquely her own.
Everything You Need to Know About Concerts in the Park
As the sun sets over the scenic Downtown Huntsville, Big Spring Park comes alive with the sounds of music, laughter, and community. Every summer, the city hosts a beloved tradition: Concerts in the Park. This series of free, family-friendly concerts has become a staple in Huntsville's cultural calendar, drawing residents and visitors alike to enjoy an array of musical performances under the open sky.
Martinson & Beason: A Legacy of Legal Excellence in Downtown Huntsville
In the bustling heart of Downtown Huntsville lies a story of perseverance, dedication, and community service, embodied in the history of Martinson & Beason. This storied law firm traces its origins back to the humble beginnings of its founder, Douglas Carroll Martinson, whose journey into the legal profession began on April 21, 1932, with a legal correspondence course.
Get Ready for the 2024 Cigar Box Guitar Festival!
The world's longest-running Cigar Box Guitar Festival, marking its 20th anniversary, is set to kick off from May 30 to June 2, 2024, in Huntsville, Alabama. This milestone year sees the festival extend to four days for the first time, offering a rich array of musical performances, educational seminars, and family-friendly activities—all in support of music education in schools.
Kimley-Horn Expands Presence with New Downtown Huntsville Office
Kimley-Horn, a renowned engineering and design firm with a legacy spanning back to 1967, has marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its latest office space in Downtown Huntsville. The firm, which began in Raleigh, North Carolina, has since burgeoned into a multidisciplinary powerhouse, with more than 7,500 staff members in 130+ offices across the U.S. and specializes in civil engineering, landscape architecture, transportation, and planning.
Fun Things to do this Memorial Day Weekend
Happy Memorial Day Weekend! Enjoy the holiday with several fun events happening in Downtown Huntsville.
6 Must-try Summer Activities in Downtown Huntsville
In need of some ideas for summer time activities? We’ve got your back! Downtown Huntsville has many summer events and fun places for you to visit this summer.
5 Events Happening Downtown This Weekend!
This weekend is full of downtown events that you don't want to miss! Enjoy good food, free concerts, bike rides through West Huntsville and more!
8 Mother’s Day Events Happening in Downtown
Happy Mother’s Day! Make plans to bring your loved one downtown to celebrate with fantastic events happening all weekend long.
Stella at Five Points Gears Up for Summer Opening
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. members got an exclusive look at Huntsville’s newest apartment community at yesterday’s member briefing.
Stella at Five Points, the first luxury multifamily and retail development in Huntsville’s historic Five Points neighborhood, is set to open early this summer.
DHI Announces Exciting New Event Series
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) proudly announces the launch of its latest project, the eagerly anticipated event series called 805 After Five. Aimed at energizing the city's vibrant community of young professionals, 805 After Five promises an unparalleled experience every third Thursday from May to October at Campus 805’s Butler Green Park.
DHI Celebrates BlueBikes Re-Fleet
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. celebrated the 10th anniversary of its BlueBikes program with new bikes at all of the downtown stations. The refleet was announced at a joint news conference with Cummings Research Park (CRP) on Wednesday.
10 Must-Attend Events Happening this Weekend
This weekend is packed full of events you don’t want to miss! From free concerts, to art markets, to a Cindo de May celebration- Downtown Huntsville is the place to be.
Downtown Open Is Now Open!
We invite you to join us for the 2024 Downtown Open! The event kicks off DHI’s 2024 event season and features 18 mini golf holes uniquely decorated by local establishments.
Users can play for free anytime now through April 30. Putters, balls, and scorecards are provided at BeeZr and Honest Coffee.
Experience Huntsville’s Comic and Pop Culture Expo
As the weekend approaches, the city buzzes with anticipation for one of its most beloved events: the Huntsville Comic and Pop Culture Expo. Held at the Von Braun Center from April 12th to 14th, this year's expo promises to be an unforgettable celebration of all things geeky and fantastic.
Huntsville Yoga Week Returns
Get ready for a week-long celebration of wellness as Light on Yoga Fitness partners with local businesses to offer free yoga classes across Huntsville. From May 6th to May 12th, North Alabama residents will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of all-levels classes set against the backdrop of some of Huntsville's most beloved locations.
DHI Gears Up For 2024 Event Season
Now that it’s finally April, we're thrilled to announce the lineup for our highly anticipated 2024 event season! Downtown Huntsville, Inc. is excited to bring you a series of unforgettable experiences in the Heart of Huntsville throughout the year.
Hop Into Spring Fun: Easter Events Happening in Downtown Huntsville
Spring has sprung in Downtown Huntsville, and many places are celebrating with fun Easter events. From egg hunts to festive brunches, the heart of Alabama's Rocket City is buzzing with excitement this weekend! So grab your baskets and bunny ears, because we're about to embark on an egg-citing adventure of Easter events happening in downtown.
Huntsville City FC Hosts Home Opener for 2024 Season
Excitement is building as the Huntsville City Football Club (HCFC) gears up for its home opener this Friday at Wicks Family Field.
Managing Director Chad Emerson offered a glimpse into the upcoming season, promising an unparalleled experience for Huntsville soccer fans.
8 Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Downtown
St. Patrick's Day, a global celebration of Irish culture and heritage, is eagerly anticipated by millions around the world each year. Whether you're of Irish descent or simply love to join in the festivities, Downtown Huntsville offers a vibrant and spirited atmosphere for celebrating this iconic holiday. From lively parades to traditional Irish fare, here's a guide to how you can celebrate St. Patrick's Day in downtown.
Meet the Downtown Advocate of the Year
Our Advocate of the Year award recognizes an individual or organization that has made significant contributions to the revitalization and success of Downtown Huntsville. The Advocate of the Year is selected by the DHI Team, and the individual or organization must meet a certain criteria. When deciding the past year’s advocate, our team had one clear choice in mind.
Donna Castellano is the Executive Director of the Historic Huntsville Foundation. She has a strong love for Huntsville history and is committed to researching and bringing long-needed recognition to stories that were marginalized or forgotten.
DHI Hosts Annual Meeting and Downtown Awards
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. hosted its 2024 Annual Meeting and Downtown Awards event at Campus 805’s Stone Event Center on February 21, 2024. This event was presented by Bank Independent.
The Downtown Awards are an important part of our Annual Meeting that recognizes businesses, events, and projects that had a profound impact on Downtown Huntsville districts in the past year.
Celebrating One Year of Huntsville City Lifestyle
Huntsville City Lifestyle Magazine recently celebrated its one year anniversary of the publication, which highlights the vibrant essence of Huntsville and its residents.
Founded by Amy Bailey and a team of passionate individuals with deep roots in the community, Huntsville City Lifestyle Magazine aimed to fill a gap in local media by offering a platform that showcases the city's unique charm, diverse businesses, and remarkable stories of people who call it home.
6 Ways to Celebrate Mardi Gras 2024
Mardi Gras is more than just an excuse to eat, drink, and be merry. It's a celebration of community, culture, and creativity. From the colorful parades to the elaborate costumes, Mardi Gras is a chance for people from all walks of life to come together and celebrate what makes them unique. So whether you're a seasoned reveler or a first-time partygoer, there's an event for everyone to enjoy.
Plan the Perfect Date Night in Downtown
This February, we're challenging you to Show Your Love in various ways, whether that's supporting small businesses, attending events, or trying a new activity. To jump start this month, you can Show Your Love to your special someone by planning the perfect date night in downtown.
DHI Wins Best of Huntsville Awards
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. was excited to participate in the Best of Huntsville 2023 award ceremony hosted on Tuesday night by Huntsville EVENT Magazine and Huntsville Business Journal. The ceremony recognized the winners of the Best of Huntsville contest, which received over 110,000 votes from thousands of Huntsville residents, visitors, and fans.
With the votes officially in, we are thrilled to announce that Tinsel Trail won Best Festival and Downtown Huntsville won Best Attraction! These awards are incredible testaments to the work that we strive to accomplish as an organization, and we thank everyone who voted.
A Slice of Perfection
In celebration of National Pizza Week, pizza enthusiasts are in for a treat as we take a closer look at some of the most beloved pizza places in downtown. From traditional classics to innovative creations, these pizza hotspots promise a slice of heaven for locals and visitors alike.
Accomplish Your New Year’s Resolutions!
Did you make a New Year’s resolution this year? Do you need help sticking to it? Downtown Huntsville has some great spots to visit if you’re trying to work on resolutions related to fitness, reading, self-care, and more! Keep reading to find a good fit for you and your goals.
DHI’s 2023 Recap
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. is proud to reflect on a phenomenal past year, filled with exciting events, impactful initiatives, and strategic progress. We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of our partners, members, and the entire Huntsville community. Together, we are shaping the future of downtown Huntsville, creating a vibrant, thriving, and welcoming destination for all.
Through collaborative efforts, unwavering dedication, and a shared vision for a thriving downtown, we have achieved significant milestones that have transformed the heart of Huntsville.
Schoel Engineering Celebrates New Office in Downtown
Schoel Engineering celebrated the opening of its new downtown Huntsville office with a ribbon cutting on Tuesday afternoon, featuring Mayor Battle and other guest speakers.
Established in 1888, Schoel is a fifth-generation civil engineering firm responsible for several major projects across Huntsville, such as Stovehouse, Twickenham Square, and Mars Music Hall.
Get Ready to Rock Around the Rocket City
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. is excited to partner with the Huntsville Museum of Art for the first annual “Rockin’ Around the Rocket City,” which features three holiday attractions in Big Spring Park: Tinsel Trail, Skating in the Park, and the Rocket City Tree.
Tinsel Trail, presented by Meta, is a free event that showcases over 400 live Christmas trees decorated by local businesses, families, and organizations. This year, the trail also includes Mayor Battle’s new 25-foot Christmas tree, the Rocket City Tree, presented by Huntsville Coca-Cola.
Eight Restaurants, One Family
The Church Street Family is one of Huntsville’s most prominent collections of wining and dining establishments. The group consists of eight unique restaurants owned by Stephanie and Matthew Mell. Seven of these establishments are located in downtown districts.
The Mells chose to open the majority of their restaurants and bars in downtown Huntsville because they wanted to add unique dining experiences to downtown’s vibrant community.
Take a Ride Through Historic Downtown Huntsville
Tweed Ride Huntsville is back for the sixth year of its free, historic bike tour through downtown Huntsville.
For the ride, participants dress up in dapper attire, such as tweed pants, wool skirts, and bow ties, and take a bicycle ride through historic spots. This year’s route covers nearly seven miles of Northeast and downtown Huntsville. Riders will be joined by two local historians sharing stories at several of the stops.
Historic Huntsville Museum Listed to Reconstruction Era National Historic Network
The Historic Huntsville Museum, located inside Harrison Brothers Hardware store, is being acknowledged on the national level, with its listing to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network.
The Reconstruction Era National Historic Network preserves, protects, and shares information regarding sites and programs that are affiliated with the Reconstruction Era.
DHI Releases Office Market Study
Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) is prioritizing growing the office market after a study released by DHI and Value Tech Realty Services revealed that tight vacancies and other challenges could be a threat to downtown Huntsville’s current market.
According to Rob Buddo, CEO of Downtown Huntsville Inc., a healthy office vacancy rate is around 10% to allow room for growth. The current downtown office landscape shows that there is only a 5.1% vacancy of office space, which means there is not a lot of available room for businesses who want to move to or expand their space in downtown.
Broadway Theatre League Announces New Season
Broadway Theatre League announced its 2023-2024 season lineup, and it features some classic shows that theater and movie fans are sure to love.
Established in 1959, Broadway Theatre League brings in national, touring Broadway shows and concerts. It started its performances at the original Huntsville High School, before moving to the Von Braun Center to take the stage at Mark C. Smith Concert Hall.
The History of Maple Hill Cemetery
The oldest municipally owned cemetery in Alabama is located right here in downtown Huntsville.
Maple Hill Cemetery was established in 1822 when the city of Huntsville purchased two acres of land from Leroy Pope, one of Huntsville’s first settlers, and it now extends to nearly 100 acres and holds more than 80,000 graves.
The Blind Tiger: Downtown’s New Luxury Event Space
A new luxury event center is now open in downtown Huntsville. The Blind Tiger is a conveniently located venue that can host corporate events, wedding shoes, happy hour socials, holiday parties, and more.
Owner Angela Panzica saw the demand for a downtown event center. Her other business, Stella’s Elixir Lounge, has branded itself as a destination location, and she did not want to change its structure, so she decided to create a new space with a unique atmosphere
The History of Harrison Brothers Hardware
Harrison Brothers Hardware is one of the oldest stores in Huntsville. It was established on the courthouse square in 1897 by brothers James B. and Daniel T. Harrison
The brothers started out with a tobacco shop on Jefferson Street in 1879 before deciding that there was a demand for a hardware store. They opened a brick and mortar on Southside Square, which is where the store is still located today. They began by selling hardware items but eventually expanded into a furniture store.
The Unique Art of Cigar Box Guitars
The only brick and mortar store in the world that focuses on selling cigar box guitars is located right here in Downtown Huntsville- in Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment. The Cigar Box Guitar Store, owned by Jeff and Tara Mello, is unique in its art and history.
Cigar box guitars were created decades ago by people who wanted to play an instrument but could not afford to buy one. In 1865, the United States government required that cigars be sold in small boxes to aid in tax collection. The discarded boxes would be joined to a broom handle or other wooded stick. A wire, often from a window screen, was stretched across it to create a simple fiddle to pluck. The cigar box guitar was often a key instrument in a “jug band,” which was a band made up of a washboard bass, jug, harmonica, and sometimes spoons, combs or stovepipes.
The Washington Street Sisters
Those who frequent Downtown Huntsville are probably very familiar with Humphrey’s Bar & Grill and its next-door fine-dining sister-restaurant, The Bottle.
Humphrey’s has been a popular spot to grab dinner and drinks for over 20 years, and The Bottle was established 10 years ago, bringing Southern Cuisine with a French influence to Downtown’s dining options.
Stringing Together the Story
When words fail, music speaks, and six strings can tell a powerful story.
Danny Davis is the owner of Tangled String Studios, but he’s better known for his masterfully designed and hand-crafted guitars. However, just like each guitar he creates, Davis has a unique story behind how he became the established artist and business owner he is today.
Women in Music Week is Back!
Due to overwhelming popularity, Huntsville Women in Music Weekend is now Huntsville Women in Music Week! The event returns to the Rocket City for its fifth year on September 15-24 as part of Huntsville Music Month
“Women in Music Week allows Huntsville to showcase over 50 women in the music industry over 10 days at various venues, and provides artists the opportunity to shine on stages throughout the city, " said Alli Johnson, Executive Producer of Women in Music Huntsville.
Got the Blues? Jazz in the Park Will Cheer You Up!
The summer may be winding down, but Jazz in the Park is kicking into full swing this weekend! The annual concert series is finally back with free performances happening every Sunday in September.
Since 2015, people have attended Jazz in the Park to experience the electric rhythms of trumpets, saxophones, violins, trombones, vocals, and more. This year, the lineup is bigger and better than ever, with a variety of seasoned professionals, Grammy nominated artists, and new names in the jazz world taking the stage each week.
Bringing Art to the Heart of Huntsville
What is art? Is it confined to the walls of famous museums like the Louvre? Or is it as simple as the crayon pictures that live on fridge magnets?
Art is everywhere, but sometimes it gets overlooked by the eyes of busy people heading to work, driving to the grocery store, or going to pick up kids from school. The Curated Gallery is an organization that is dedicated to shining a light on artwork in spaces that may otherwise be invisible.
Rocket City Classic to Bring Hoop Fans to Huntsville
The Rocket City will soon welcome sports fans from all over the South with two major basketball events coming to the Von Braun Center.
Mayor Tommy Battle and the Huntsville Sports Commission announced in a press conference last week that the Rocket City Classic is returning in December, and the city will also host the Conference USA tournament in March 2024.
The Mad Scientist's New Experiment ... Sandwiches!
Eight months ago, The Bakingtist brought their signature bread and pastries to Downtown Huntsville. Now, they’re bringing even more to the table with the launch of a full cafe experience.
Starting on Friday, August 11th, The Bakingtist will serve a variety of gourmet sandwiches, paired beautifully with their house-made bread. The inside of the restaurant will also be upgraded with a new sandwich station and beverage bar.