Rocket City and BBQ: 6-Day Huntsville Group Itinerary February 2026

Huntsville, AL · Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Rocket City Arrival and Welcome BBQ

2:00 PM:

Upon arrival at Huntsville International Airport, transfer downtown to check into the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown and gather with the group.

3:00 PM:

Take a refreshing walk through Big Spring International Park to admire the Japanese Bell and the scenic waterfall that serves as the heart of the city.

4:00 PM:

Visit the historic and transformed Campus No. 805, where you can explore unique local shops housed within a converted middle school building.

5:00 PM:

Begin your Rocket City culinary journey with a Welcome BBQ dinner at Moe's Original BBQ, featuring their famous smoked meats and Alabama white sauce.

6:00 PM:

Following your dinner, take a leisurely digestional stroll through Constitution Hall Park to view the historic markers that designate the birthplace of Alabama's statehood.

7:00 PM:

Head over to the outdoor leisure space at Stovehouse, a converted factory where you can enjoy the evening air and perhaps a sweet treat from The Southern Food Co.

8:00 PM:

Return to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown for a relaxing nightcap at Bar 89, which offers a stunning view of the night lights across Big Spring International Park.

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Huntsville, AL · Thursday, February 5, 2026

Out of This World: Space and Rocket Center

8:00 AM:

Fuel up for a day of galactic discovery with a morning meal at Honest Coffee Roasters, a local favorite located in the heart of downtown Huntsville.

9:00 AM:

Arrive at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, where you will begin your tour of the world's largest spaceflight museum and the home of Space Camp.

10:00 AM:

Enter the Davidson Center for Space Exploration to stand in awe beneath the massive Saturn V Rocket, which is suspended horizontally above the exhibit floor.

11:00 AM:

Head outdoors to the Rocket Park to view the Pathfinder Space Shuttle and the collection of historic missiles that earned Huntsville its 'Rocket City' nickname.

12:00 PM:

Enjoy a convenient lunch at Mars Grill, located right inside the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, to maximize your time among the exhibits.

1:00 PM:

Experience an immersive 8K digital show at the Intuitive Planetarium, where you can journey through the cosmos in one of the most advanced theaters in the country.

2:00 PM:

Explore the Apollo Gallery to see the Apollo 16 Command Module and then head to the Space Camp Training Center observation deck to watch future astronauts in training.

3:00 PM:

Depart the space center and travel to Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, a massive historic textile mill that has been transformed into the nation's largest independent arts facility.

4:00 PM:

Wander through the sprawling floors of Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment to visit over 200 artist studios and grab a unique treat at the steampunk-themed Dragon's Forge Cafe.

5:00 PM:

Conclude your day of discovery and return to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown for an evening of relaxation or personal exploration.

6:00 PM:

Walk over to Commerce Kitchen in the downtown square for an upscale Southern dinner featuring refined classics like fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits.

7:00 PM:

Take a self-guided architectural walking tour through the Twickenham Historic District to admire the preserved Federal and Greek Revival mansions, including the notable Weeden House Museum.

8:00 PM:

Toast to the day's adventures with a sophisticated cocktail at Stella's Elixir Lounge, an elegant rooftop destination where you can enjoy the evening air by the fire pits.

9:00 PM:

Return to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown for a restful night, concluding your immersive day in the Rocket City's space and art scenes.

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Huntsville, AL · Friday, February 6, 2026

Botanical Beauty and Artistic Endeavors

8:00 AM:

Begin your morning with a European-inspired breakfast at The Moon Bakeshop, known for its buttery croissants and Southern-influenced pastries in the heart of downtown.

9:00 AM:

Arrive at the Huntsville Botanical Garden to enjoy the crisp morning air while exploring 112 acres of diverse ecosystems and beautifully manicured floral displays.

10:00 AM:

Step inside the Purdy Butterfly House, the nation's largest open-air butterfly habitat, and stroll through the tranquil Meisler Aquatic Garden to see the lily pads and koi.

11:00 AM:

Explore the unique miniature landscapes of the Garden Railway and take a peaceful walk through the Damson Herb Garden before transitioning to the artistic portion of your day.

12:00 PM:

Enjoy a casual and creative lunch at Melt, a local favorite in the downtown area known for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and vibrant atmosphere.

1:00 PM:

Visit the Huntsville Museum of Art to admire the stunning Buccellati Silver Animals and explore their impressive collection of Italian jewelry and silverware.

2:00 PM:

Continue your museum tour by browsing the Sellars Collection of Art by American Women, which features over 400 years of significant works by female artists.

3:00 PM:

Walk over to the historic Harrison Brothers Hardware, the oldest operating hardware store in Alabama, to shop for locally crafted pottery and unique Southern gifts.

4:00 PM:

Embark on an urban art exploration to discover the vibrant murals along the Secret Art Walk, which highlights hidden street art in the alleys of downtown Huntsville.

5:00 PM:

Return to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown for a brief rest before heading out for a night of local dining and entertainment.

6:00 PM:

Head to the Downtown Huntsville Square for an elegant dinner at Cotton Row Restaurant, where Chef James Boyce serves refined Southern dishes in a historic brick building.

7:00 PM:

After dinner, enjoy a digestive walk passing by the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library to see the modern architecture illuminated before exploring the nearby Old Town Historic District's Victorian homes.

8:00 PM:

Descend into the mysterious atmosphere of Catacomb 435, a subterranean speakeasy that offers personalized craft cocktails in a setting that feels like a hidden artistic secret.

9:00 PM:

Conclude the evening with a short walk back to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown, perhaps catching a final view of the illuminated fountains at Big Spring International Park.

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Huntsville, AL · Saturday, February 7, 2026

Treetops and History: Monte Sano and Burritt

8:00 AM:

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at Canadian Bakin, a local favorite famous for its hand-rolled bagels and gourmet 'sammies' that will fuel your mountain adventure.

9:00 AM:

Ascend the scenic roads of Monte Sano Mountain to enter Monte Sano State Park, where you will take in the fresh air and expansive views from the Monte Sano Overlook.

10:00 AM:

Enjoy a tranquil guided walk along the South Plateau Loop, a level trail offering stunning vistas of the surrounding Tennessee Valley and vibrant mountain flora.

11:00 AM:

Travel just outside the park gates to Burritt on the Mountain, starting your tour at the circular Burritt Mansion, which offers one of the most iconic panoramic views in the city.

12:00 PM:

Descend the mountain to the Five Points Historic District for a locally sourced lunch at 1892 East Restaurant & Tavern, where you can enjoy modern Southern cuisine in a charming, historic neighborhood setting.

1:00 PM:

Return to the grounds of Burritt on the Mountain to explore the Historic Park, featuring six authentic 19th-century pioneer cabins relocated from across the Tennessee Valley.

2:00 PM:

Visit the McCurdy Barn to interact with the heritage breed farm animals and observe a live demonstration at the traditional Blacksmith Shop.

3:00 PM:

Head back toward the city center to visit the Historic Huntsville Depot, one of the nation's oldest surviving railroad structures, once used as a prison for Confederate soldiers.

4:00 PM:

Take a self-guided walk through the Depot Park to view the vintage Autolab and historic locomotives that highlight the golden age of Alabama's railway system.

5:00 PM:

Conclude your day's journey and return to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown for a restful evening, aligning with the group's preferred afternoon wrap-up time.

6:00 PM:

Venturing back out to the Downtown Huntsville Square, enjoy a refined dinner at The Bottle, known for its sophisticated French-influenced Southern dishes and extensive wine list.

7:00 PM:

Take a short walk to the Huntsville Madison County Veterans Memorial Park to see the fountains and monuments beautifully illuminated against the night sky.

8:00 PM:

Visit Phat Sammy's, a vibrant subterranean tiki bar located near the square, for a playful atmosphere and artisan cocktails that offer a fun contrast to the day's historical tours.

9:00 PM:

Head back to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown for a final nightcap at the Bar 89 rooftop lounge, overlooking the quiet beauty of Big Spring International Park.

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Huntsville, AL · Sunday, February 8, 2026

Downtown Discovery and Historic Districts

8:00 AM:

Start your morning at Gold Sprint Coffee, a uniquely designed local cafe with a vintage-industrial vibe, perfect for fueling up with a specialty latte.

9:00 AM:

Begin a deep-dive tour of Alabama Constitution Hall Park, where costumed interpreters guide you through the 1819 village to see where Alabama's statehood was born.

10:00 AM:

Embark on an architectural stroll through the Old Town Historic District, admiring the colorful Victorian-style homes and the quiet, tree-lined streets of one of the city's oldest neighborhoods.

11:00 AM:

Visit the Weeden House Museum and Garden, the 1819 home of artist Howard Weeden, to view her masterful portraits and learn about the building's role during the Civil War.

12:00 PM:

Enjoy a casual and vibrant lunch at Sam & Greg's Pizzeria/Gelato on the Downtown Huntsville Square, famous for their hand-tossed pizzas and creative gelato flavors.

1:00 PM:

Following your lunch at the square, take a short drive to the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum to explore an extensive collection of international military vehicles and artifacts, including the world's oldest jeep.

2:00 PM:

Transition from history to modern entertainment with a visit to the MidCity District to marvel at the massive Orion Amphitheater, a stunning architectural centerpiece modeled after classic Roman theaters.

3:00 PM:

Soak in the creative atmosphere at The Camp, a local favorite gathering spot within MidCity featuring rotating art installations, local vendor stalls, and expansive outdoor seating.

4:00 PM:

Travel to the nearby Bridge Street Town Centre to enjoy a lakeside stroll and explore the boutiques and flagship stores found within this premier upscale open-air shopping destination.

5:00 PM:

Return to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown to conclude the official afternoon itinerary, giving the group plenty of time to rest before your personal evening plans.

6:00 PM:

Head to The Avenue for a communal dining experience at Purveyor, where you can share upscale small plates and explore a curated list of global wines.

7:00 PM:

Take a tranquil evening stroll back through Big Spring International Park to witness the stunning lighting of the The Light Tunnel as it glows over the canal.

8:00 PM:

Visit Baker & Able, the rooftop lounge at the 106 Jefferson Huntsville, for a sophisticated cocktail named after the famous space monkeys and an unobstructed view of the Huntsville Skyline.

9:00 PM:

Conclude your day with a short walk back to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown, ensuring a restful night before your final day of the tour.

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Huntsville, AL · Monday, February 9, 2026

Short Explorations and Farewell BBQ Celebration

8:00 AM:

Gather for a final group breakfast at Olde Towne Coffee Shoppe in the historic Five Points neighborhood, a cozy local spot perfect for reflecting on the week's adventures.

9:00 AM:

Take a peaceful morning walk through Maple Hill Cemetery, the oldest and largest cemetery in Alabama, exploring its ornate mausoleums and the mysterious Dead Children's Playground.

10:00 AM:

Drive to the southern tip of the city to visit Ditto Landing, where you can enjoy the crisp morning air with a stroll along the docks overlooking the Tennessee River.

11:00 AM:

Stop by The Little Green Store and Gallery on your way back into town to browse a curated collection of fine art and unique handcrafted gifts from local North Alabama artisans.

12:00 PM:

Enjoy a hearty lunch at LawLers Barbecue, savoring their signature 'Stuffie' potato or a classic BBQ plate that perfectly complements the week's culinary theme.

1:00 PM:

Travel a short distance to the North Alabama Railroad Museum to admire the collection of historic locomotives and vintage passenger coaches that celebrate the region's transportation history.

2:00 PM:

Visit the Clinton Row Shops, a unique retail space converted from a former parking garage, to browse localized boutiques and pick up handcrafted Rocket City souvenirs.

3:00 PM:

Explore the Three Caves at the Monte Sano Nature Preserve, a former limestone quarry that now serves as a stunning and unique outdoor environmental site.

4:00 PM:

Return to the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown for a brief period of relaxation and to freshen up before the final group dinner celebration.

5:00 PM:

Depart for your Farewell BBQ celebration at Gibson's Bar-B-Q, a local landmark since 1956, where you will enjoy a final feast featuring their famous hickory-smoked meats.

6:00 PM:

Continue the celebration at Gibson's Bar-B-Q, ensuring everyone gets a taste of their famous homemade pie while the group shares final stories from the week's adventures.

7:00 PM:

Head to The Wine Cellar for a relaxed evening atmosphere, where you can enjoy a final glass of wine and browse their selection of local Alabama labels.

8:00 PM:

Enjoy a final group gathering at the AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville Downtown lobby lounge, where the sophisticated decor provides a perfect backdrop for reflecting on your time in the Rocket City.

9:00 PM:

Retire to your room for a restful final night, concluding your journey through North Alabama with a heart full of memories and a final view of the Big Spring International Park lights.

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