EXCURSIONS HOTEL GUEST DIRECTORY HUNTSVILLE & MADISON, AL 4TH EDITION

EXCURSIONS A GUEST DIRECTORY

EXCURSIONS

SM

A GUEST DIRECTORY

Huntsville & Madison 4th Edition

Huntsville & Madison

Tourist

4th Edition

Explore our space past and future 362 days a year – stay an hour or a weekend!

Fascinating 2 to 6 day immersive camps for all ages: children, families, adults and corporate programs!

RocketCenterUSA www.rocketcenter.com • www.spacecamp.com • 1-800-637-7223

Untitled-30 1

GO EXCURSIONS MOBILE AT WWW.EXCURSIONS.CITYVISION.TV

HOTEL PROPERTY PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE

8/21/14 6:52 AM

go ahead...

make my day Get ready for your adventure in the Rocket City! huntsville.org

day 1 day 2 day 3

Stop by the Visitor Center for attraction discounts

Tinker with experiments at Sci-Quest Hands-on Science Center

Embrace the adventure at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Unwind in one of the 6,700 + hotel rooms throughout Madison County

Enjoy lunch at Bridge Street Town Centre

Venture out to dinner at the idyllic Village of Providence

Discover breathtaking views at Burritt on the Mountain

Take a stroll through Twickenham Historic District

Experience the South’s largest hands-on history museum---EarlyWorks

See art created at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Journey to quaint Historic Five Points to quench your appetite

Dine in scenic Madison, just a quick drive from Huntsville

Explore nature’s best at the Huntsville Botanical Garden

View global and local art at the Huntsville Museum of Art

Embark on the Lucky Duck Scavenger Hunt

Catch a Broadway Theatre League show at the Von Braun Center

Grab a bite to eat on Courthouse Square in the heart of downtown Huntsville

Take a break by the pool... you’ve earned it!

best some of the

steAK

RoCKet CItY momeNts hAPPeN oVeR

Downtown Huntsville 路 256.539.3930 800 Monroe Street (at the Embassy Suites)

www.RuthsChris.net

Enjoy your visit and feel confident knowing we’re here if you need us.

Bourke’s AAMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care of Birmingham 2610 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 322-2483

APPLE BELK DSW SHOES BANANA REPUBLIC MICHAEL KORS ANTHROPOLOGIE PANDORA KATE SPADE NEW YORK BRIGHTON COLLECTIBLES J. CREW H&M SEPHORA BARNES & NOBLE BAR LOUIE P.F. CHANG’S CONNORS STEAK & SEAFOOD THE WESTIN HUNTSVILLE MONACO PICTURES Visit our more than 70 stores and restaurants.

DROP BY GUEST SERVIC ES FOR A PASSP ORT WITH STORE SAVINGS. SAVINGS Located at exit 14 off I-565 at Old Madison Pike | 256.327.8400 | bridgestreethuntsville.com | facebook.com/bridgestreethuntsville

LET TER FROM THE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

We are very pleased to publish our fourth annual edition of EXCURSIONS – A Guest Directory for Huntsville and Madison. EXCURSIONS is truly a collaboration of many talented, civic-minded individuals and organizations and I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to our advertisers, Mayor Trulock and Amy Bell of the City of Madison, Mayor Battle of Huntsville and his staff, Judy Ryals and Jennifer Moore and their staff at the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the talented writers and photographers from the Huntsville area, and especially, my team of talented and dedicated folks in Birmingham who work side-by-side with me to create the best products possible for our clients and our readers.

Since our last edition there have been many changes in th the Huntsville and Madison area. We are thrilled to devote more space in the book this year to the City of Madison.

Madison continues to be one of the fastest growing communities in the nation and we are happy to help spread the word.

In Huntsville, several downtown-focused ogranizations joined forces as one entity: Downtown Huntsville, Inc. They are doing exciting and innovative things to bring more folks to the city center to work, play, live and visit. Find out more by reading Jenny Adams’ interview with their CEO, Chad Emerson.

Meeting Dr. Travis Taylor from the TV show Rocket City Rednecks was also a highlight of developing this year’s book. Be sure to check out Jenny Adams’ story about him and discover one of the things in Huntsville about which he is so passionate.

We would also like to thank you for picking up our book to learn about the Huntsville/ Madison area. I hope that you will pay particular attention to those who’ve advertised in this edition and mention EXCURSIONS when you visit them. It is the advertisers who make this useful tool possible and available to you. We also want to thank our hotel partners for placing EXCURSIONS in their guest rooms for you to find.

Safe travels and many returns,

Brent Boyd EDITOR AND PUBLISHER P R E S I D E N T, C I T Y V I S I O N , I N C .

4 EXCURSIONS

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Brent Boyd brent@cityvision.tv BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Wendy Bozzelli wendy@cityvision.tv COPY EDITOR

Rachel Davis davis.rachel.a@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jenny Adams Kimberly Ballard CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brad Lackey Brent Boyd Michael Clemmer Wes Thomas Craig Shamwell Jeff Schreier

U S O N FAC E B O O K E XC U R S I O N S BY CI T Y V I S I O N

@CIT Y VISIONINC

EXCURSIONS Hotel Guest Directory is published annually by CityVision, Inc. 3021 6th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233 205.595.0809; www.cityvision.tv Copyright 2014-15 by CityVision, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion, whole or part, of this publication may be reprinted without express written permission. For information on display rates or media kits, please email sales@cityvision.tv or view our website at www.cityvision.tv.

PHOTO:

Welcome to Huntsville and Madison!

PRESIDENT ’SLET TER

Welcome to Huntsville/Madison County Alabama!

On behalf of the board and staff of the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau, it is my honor and a pleasure to welcome you to our community. Whatever brings you to the heart of the Tennessee Valley, I encourage you to enjoy the rich diversity of attractions and outstanding dining options as well as the wide variety of activities available during your stay.

World-class shopping and delectable dining sure to please any palate are easily accessible from all major lodging providers.

Bridge Street Town Centre, Parkway Place Mall and Madison Square Mall each offer shoppers some of the very finest “Space to Splurge.” Visit the unique retail offerings in Five Points, Downtown Huntsville and Madison, at area attractions and in the Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center®. You’re sure to find the perfect gift or keepsake for that special someone! Find your “Space at Our Table” at one of over 500 restaurants. You can easily match menus to your mood. Southern specialties include barbecue, grits and sweet tea.

Try a beer from one of our local craft breweries, if you’re so inclined. Visit one of the many white tablecloth dining venues featuring some of the best-known chefs in the region or explore our ever-expanding food truck offerings.

Get out and experience our “Space to Play” from the top attractions in the state, all within minutes of your room! The U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Burritt on the Mountain, Huntsville Botanical Garden, Sci-Quest, the Huntsville Museum of Art, the EarlyWorks Museum Complex, Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment and so many more attractions offer visitors memorable experiences. You’ll find a wealth of outdoor venues like the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Hampton Cove, Ditto Landing Marina and Monte Sano State Park. There are plenty of places you can enjoy a hike, bike, walk or run. Not that energetic? Just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Let us assist you in planning your free time. Watch the Visitor Channel on the television in your room or visit our website at Huntsville.org. Call us at 256-533-5723 or better yet, stop in the Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center®. It’s located in downtown Huntsville at 500 Church Street NW and open seven days a week for your convenience. Ask us about our money-saving coupons for attractions, sports, and arts and entertainment.

Once again, welcome to our community. We’ve Got Space and we’re happy you’re in it!

PHOTO:

Judy S. Ryals P R E S I D E N T /C E O

H U N T SVIL L E /M ADISON COU N T Y CONVEN TION & VISITOR S BU R E AU

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 5

D O W N LO A D

SAVE HERE!

DEAL

REWAR

S

OFFERS

SM

DS

COUPONS

shop.save.share...everywhere!

DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP samy.com

Google Play is a trademark of Google Inc. The App Store is a trademark of Apple Inc. Samy is a Service Mark of MobileBits. Š 2013 MobileBits Corporation.

INTRODUCING

Mobile

Find all of our sponsors and more by going directly to WWW.EXCURSIONS.CITYVISION.TV on your mobile device.

DOWNLOAD Download a QR Scanner App, if you don’t already have one.

SCAN

We recommend these free apps: QR Code Reader by Scan for iPhone and i-nigma QR Code Reader for iPhone and Andriod.

Both of these apps will store your scans so you may recall them later.

Scanning the QR Codes found throughout EXCURSIONS using a QR Code scanner app allows you to take advertisers’ info with you via our EXCURSIONS Mobile page.

SEARCH From there, you may:

Tap to dial a phone number

Tap to view sponsors’ websites

Tap to “Like” sponsors on Facebook

See sponsors’ current Facebook promotions

View additional photos

Tap on sponsors’ map locations for directions

Search within the site for all sponsors and more

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

WWW.EXCURSIONS.CITYVISION.TV

EXCURSIONS 7

MAYORS’LET TERS

WELCOME TO HUNTSVILLE, a city of rockets and defense, bio-tech and computer science, arts and parks, is a smart city on the move. Huntsville is the second-largest research park in the United States with a concentration of high-tech workers.

The city is nicknamed “The Rocket City” for its close history with U.S. space missions. Huntsville has played a vital role in developing space technology since the 1950s. It is one of the most recognized cities in the Southeast consistently named as one of the best places to live and work by a variety of national publications.

Our city is regularly named as a premier location for both business and quality of life.

The City of Huntsville provides an exceptionally high quality of life through its museums, educational facilities, and cultural and recreational activities. All of these opportunities, when coupled with the area’s affordable housing and low cost of living, provide a unique environment for families to prosper.

While you are in our city, I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy the many sights and attractions Huntsville offers —among them are the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, the Huntsville Museum of Art, Early Works, the Botanical Garden, and many more. I would also like to invite you to visit Parkway Place Mall and the Bridge Street Town Centre to explore some of our best shopping and dining options.

As Mayor, I welcome you to our city and invite you to discover the many great things Huntsville has to offer.

Sincerely,

Tommy Battle

M AY O R — C I T Y O F H U N T S V I L L E

WELCOME TO THE CITY OF MADISON— on behalf of the City of Madison, I invite you to explore Madison’s historic charm, fabulous food and fun entertainment. The harmonious subsistence of progress and preservation is one of the many reasons my wife, Dana, our two children and I are proud to call Madison home!

Located only a few miles west of Huntsville, off I-565, more than 45,000 citizens enjoy the diverse opportunities Madison has to offer, including award-winning schools, nationally recognized restaurants and retail, superior health care services and family recreation choices.

With hi-tech and advance manufacturing corporations, including the headquarters of Intergraph Corporation, Madison area employers provide families with a household income of almost double the national average and cost of living well below. Welcoming neighbors, excellent schools, and family-friendly venues make Madison a nurturing and comfortable place to call home.

When you are in town, take the time to walk, jog, or bike The Bradford Creek Greenway. Its natural setting provides miles of relaxation and recreation away from the trappings of urban life.

Go back in time walking the rose-lined streets of the Madison Station Historic Downtown. Main Street’s restaurants, boutiques and shops provide varied and eclectic shopping and dining experiences. Thursday evenings in the spring and summer, bring a lawn chair and enjoy gazebo concerts on the green. And you don’t want to miss the annual Madison Street Festival the first weekend in October!

Whether you are in town for a day, a weekend or a lifetime, we know you will quickly discover that Madison truly is a unique place to live, learn and grow.

Sincerely,

Troy Trulock

PHOTO:

M AY O R — C I T Y O F M A D I S O N

8 EXCURSIONS

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Contents 10 Huntsville History

From Big Spring to Big Dreams

14 The Rocketman

From writing books to building explosives to hiking the Alabama wilderness, Dr. Travis Taylor is living life to the fullest in the heart of Dixie.

18 Huntsville Celebrities

Throughout its history, Huntsville has nurtured artists, performers, inventors, athletes and colorful characters who have helped make it the city it is today.

20 13 Things To Do Downtown

Huntsville’s thriving downtown area is brimming with sights, sounds and tastes for you to experience. Take a walk and take it all in.

32 Explore Madison!

Where progress meets preservation

40 U.S. Space & Rocket Center Recently named Alabama’s #1 tourist attraction!

42 Come Play!

From shopping to museums to nature preserves, Huntsville has the perfect agenda for every traveler.

50 Out on the Town

From enriching plays and theater to rockin’ live music, there are good times to be had in the Rocket City.

54 Retail Therapy

From the most popular shops to local boutiques, Huntsville has something for everyone on your shopping list.

56 Wide Open Spaces

The Huntsville area offers a wealth of outdoor escapes.

60 Hit the Links

From professional-quality to miniature golf, you’re sure to find your perfect green in one of the area’s many public course offerings.

64 Sophisticated Sizzle

Grille 29 is a favorite Huntsville restaurant.

66 Come Hungry

From upscale bistros to downhome hangouts, the Huntsville/ Madison area is teeming with culinary opportunities.

76 Downtown Determined Chad Emerson is a newcomer to Huntsville, but his great ideas are already taking root.

76 A Full Calendar of Fun

No matter what the season, there’s always something exciting going on in the Huntsville and Madison areas.

ON THE COVER & THIS PAGE:

PHOTO:

U.S. Rocket Center’s celebration of the 30th anniversary of the space shuttle; taken 2011.

This page: Interstate 565

photography by BRAD LACKEY

EXCURSIONS 9

HUNTSVILLE

From Big Spring to Big Dreams B Y K I M B E R LY BA L L A R D P H O T O G R A P H S C O U RT E S Y O F T H E H U N T S V I L L E - M A D I S O N C O U N T Y L I B R A RY A RC H I V E S

Visitors have been drawn to the vistas from Monte Sano ridge for more than a century.

HUNTSVILLEHISTORY TUCKED IN THE rolling foothills of North Alabama, the city of Huntsville is a hidden oasis of culture, innovation and progress. Known best as the cradle of the American space program, this “Rocket City” has blasted off, amazing visitors and residents alike with its surprising pedigree of events and attractions. But like most places, Huntsville’s origins are much more humble.

The story begins more than 200 years ago. Absent were the towering projectiles of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, missing was the sprawling luxury retail jungle of Bridge Street. Back then, Huntsville was all fields, trees and foothills. That is, until Tennessee frontiersman John Hunt scaled Monte Sano Ridge and changed everything.

The rumor of a freshwater spring lured Hunt from his home to explore the North Alabama wilderness. Amid the Chickasaw Indians who hunted along the banks, Hunt built a two-bedroom log cabin for his family on a bluff overlooking the spring he discovered. The word spread, and by 1808, around three hundred settlers lived near “Big Spring,” where locals transported their cotton crops down the Indian Creek Canal to the Tennessee River.

Captivated by dreams of space travel since his youth, von Braun brought powerful passion and vision to the American space program.

Huntsville Springs to Life

As cotton production picked up, the settlement grew. In 1807, Wyatt Bishop established the town’s first school. The next year, Stephen Neal stepped up as the first sheriff and married the town’s first couple, James McGuire and Elizabeth Ghormley. Soon after, John Bunch’s Old Tavern opened as the city’s first watering hole, and by 1810, the town’s first murder trial had taken place and Eli Newman had been hanged at the edge of town.

With Hunt’s Big Spring booming, the city’s founder headed back to Tennessee to sell his family’s land to pay his settlement registration fees. While he was gone, three profit-minded pioneers bought up his spring-front property and the surrounding area. One of these men, LeRoy Pope, renamed the town Twickenham after the English hometown of his famous ancestor, the poet Alexander Pope. But in 1811, Hunt’s land around Big Spring was reinstated and Huntsville was given its permanent name. LeRoy Pope may have lost the name game, but Twickenham lives on as the name of Huntsville’s antebellum district — the largest in Alabama—famous for its Federal, Italianate and Neo-Classical architecture.

With land disputes resolved, Huntsville was free to grow in peace. By 1812, a city newspaper, the Madison Gazette, had been established. Near the end of that decade, Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at excursions.cityvision.tv

the growing city was named Alabama’s first capital, albeit only temporarily, when state lawmakers gathered in a local cabinetmaking shop to draft the state’s first constitution.

By 1823, Huntsville had developed a public water system, thanks in part to its famous spring. With its infrastructure taking shape, the city took its first steps toward industry.

Huntsville Faces War and the Great Depression

The influx of cotton farmers to the area soon drew the railroad industry’s attention to Huntsville. By the mid-1800s, the Memphis and Charleston Railroad had been constructed through Huntsville, becoming the first railway to link the Atlantic seacoast with the lower Mississippi River.

Partly because of its strategic location (and

perhaps its charm), Huntsville never saw battle during the Civil War. Union forces, led by Brigadier General Ormsby M. Mitchel, moved in quickly in 1862 to cut the Confederate supply lines. Mitchel decided to stay a while, using the Huntsville railroad depot to incarcerate Confederate soldiers. Federal officers occupied Oaklawn Plantation on Meridian Street, while renegade Confederate soldiers hid out in the Mayhew home, located on Eustis Avenue.

Having avoided the destruction suffered by many southern cities in the war, the thankful townspeople found their lives getting back to normal fairly quickly. But tough times were still ahead. Following the depression and throughout the 1930s, Huntsville faced its first true economic downturn since EXCURSIONS 11

HUNTSVILLEHISTORY

its founding. Struggling against waning industry, Huntsville survived only on cotton production and its fleeting fame as the watercress capital of the world.

But things were to turn around in 1941, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared “a state of unlimited emergency” and the Chemical Warfare Service began searching for an artillery manufacturing facility. The State of Alabama ceded 160 acres of cotton fields to the War Department to build Huntsville Arsenal, which went on to employ nearly 20,000 people. By 1943, the redesignated Redstone Arsenal had expanded to 475 acres.

Reich’s most brilliant scientists were drafted by the United States. After the war, von Braun found himself and his colleagues transplanted to the isolated cotton fields of North Alabama, where, over the next four years, they would invent rocket science.

In September 1954, von Braun presented his first thesis proposing the use of the Redstone military missile, which he would be instrumental in developing, as the prototype for a vehicular rocket that could launch satellites into space. Over the

From Warfare to Wonder

However, it seemed that this success would be short-lived. In 1949, WWII was over, and the U.S. Army hung a “for sale” sign on Redstone Arsenal’s doors. What were they to do with this secluded outpost? At the last possible moment—on July 1, 1949—a new prospect appeared on the horizon.

That prospect centered around a German scientist, Wernher von Braun, who had grown up in the shadows of Nazi Germany but had maintained a fascination for space travel and rocketry. Von Braun became part of the infamous “Operation Paperclip,” a mission in which the Third 12 EXCURSIONS

The harsh realities of World War II brought a new industry to Huntsville—the industry of war. Huntsville Arsenal (later Redstone Arsenal) opened to meet the needs of the American military, employing many female workers.

next few years, numerous military missiles were successfully built, tested and launched using von Braun’s thesis.

On January 31, 1958, Huntsville earned the nickname “The Rocket City” after the Explorer I became the first U.S. satellite to orbit the earth. The front page of The Huntsville Times read: “Jupiter C Puts Up Moon: Eisenhower Officially Announces Huntsville Satellite Circles Globe,” and the world turned its eyes to Huntsville.

Soon after that momentous event, standing on the steps of Huntsville’s new Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), President Eisenhower proclaimed the creation of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). With von Braun as MSFC’s first director, rocketry moved from the defense sector into civilian space exploration. Not only did MSFC receive 1,900 acres of undeveloped land and buildings, but several thousand U.S. Army engineers, scientists and administrators were assigned a slate of challenging space exploration projects.

Success came quickly for the growing center, and, barely a year later, the Mercury-Redstone rocket boosted America’s first astronaut, Alan Shepard, into suborbital flight. Then, in 1969, the largest of the Saturn family of rockets built and tested

PHOTO:

The rumor of a freshwater spring lured John Hunt to explore the north Alabama wilderness. By 1808, three hundred settlers lived around “Big Spring.”

HUNTSVILLEHISTORY

PHOTO:

Industry brought progress, resulting in the opening of the first Huntsville Airport in the 1930s.

at MSFC propelled American astronauts to their most-anticipated destination—the moon.

A visiting magazine writer, who witnessed the testing of those massive Saturn V rockets, penned these evocative words: “One leaves the observation bunker with a weakness in the knees that is just short of collapse...It was total flame, total sound total power!” That sentiment was echoed by many local residents, who said they could hear and feel launches up to 100 miles away.

After the close of the Apollo program, Huntsville experienced an exodus of big business throughout the 1970s. Ultimately, it would be the U.S. Army, and not the space program, that would prevail. Such military innovations as the TOW missiles and the biomedical research from the HudsonAlpha Institute set Huntsville on a more diverse path to technological excellence.

ware museum in the world. It also features the Spacedome IMAX Theater and its renowned Space Camp, where, every year, thousands of students come from around the world to experience space education at its finest. But, dominating it all, hovering 10 feet above the floor, the 476-foot-long, 90-foot-wide, 63-foot-high Saturn V rocket floats like a leviathan above the new Davidson Center facility.

Redstone Arsenal is one of the Department of Defense’s most strategic technological assets, employing over 30,000 people and managing over $25 billion in annual federal spending—over half of the army’s total annual weapons procurement budget.

Recently, the U.S. Army Contracting Command announced it will move its headquarters from Fort Belvoir, Va., to Huntsville, bringing many more jobs to the area in the near future.

The Moon, Mars and Beyond

Leading Alabama into the Future

Today, more than 7,000 government and civilian contractors work at Marshall Space Flight Center. But most visitors are more interested in the Space & Rocket Center’s Rocket Park, with its massive and impressive Saturn V missile.

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center contains the most comprehensive flight hardGo EXCURSIONS Mobile at excursions.cityvision.tv

Thanks in part to the aerospace and defense industries, Huntsville has one of the most diverse cultures, per capita, in the country. Today, a mixture of nearly 300 international, high-technology and aerospace/defense agencies, plus 50 Fortune 500 companies, reside in the Cummings

Research Park, the country’s second largest research and development park.

The area has been recognized by Forbes magazine as one of the ten smartest cities in the world, BusinessWeek’s second-best recovering job market and one of Fortune Small Business’s top midsize cities to launch and grow a business.

Two hundred years after its discovery, John Hunt’s Big Spring is still at the center of downtown life. Buffered on all sides by a beautiful public park, the lagoon is surrounded by fine hotels and such distinguished civic buildings as the public library and the Von Braun Center. Lined with park benches and accented by its distinct Red Bridge (a gift from Japan), Big Spring Park is landscaped with cherry blossom trees, a gazebo and eternal flame, around which the city gathers for festivals, like the Panoply Arts Festival and many local concerts.

It’s fair to say that modern-day Huntsville, with its towering rockets, luxury shopping facilities, manicured parks and decadent dining options, would be hardly recognizable to its grizzled frontiersman founder.

But, if you ask its residents and many visitors, they’d say that’s just fine. Supported by a culture of innovation, the Rocket City is poised to lead the state, and the rest of the South, into the next century. ❖ EXCURSIONS 13

PHOTO:

The Rocketman 14 EXCURSIONS

B Y J E N N Y A DA M S PH OTO G R A P H Y B Y CRAIG SHAMWELL

M

any people don’t realize this, but the citizens of North Alabama have some of the highest IQs in the country,” offers Travis Taylor. His voice is deeply Southern, with a drawl that’s a mix of country boy charm and a decided lack of hurry.

Travis Taylor is not only correct in that statement, he’s also a main contributor to that high ranking. Dr. Travis Taylor is an aerospace engineer, a science fiction author, an optical scientist and the star of a National Geographic Channel show called Rocket City Rednecks. On his off days, he’s hardly lazy. Most often, you’d find him on his boat, hiking the Alabama wilderness around his 20-acre property in Priceville or playing guitar in one of his band projects. “In the third grade, we took an aptitude test,” Taylor laughs heartily. “My results were: scientist, astronaut or super hero. I decided to be all three, and I’m still working on that last one.”

Taylor grew up in Decatur, and was always interested in math and science, namely in space exploration. He went

PHOTO:

n

From writing books to building explosives to hiking the Alabama wilderness, Dr. Travis Taylor is living life to the fullest in the heart of Dixie.

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 15

Scan this code to watch Dr. Taylor take a wild ride on the Multi-Axis Trainer at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

to work for the Army out of high school.

“They paid my way through school for my first few degrees,” he offers, “and then I went into the private industry for eight years, giving support to NASA, the Army, Navy and Air Force. Basically, now I build rockets and space crafts.”

While he’s a known name in the aerospace engineering world, Taylor’s enthusiasm on subjects he’s passionate about is part of his charm and what makes him such an interesting character far beyond his work with NASA and the military.

His grandparents were country music singers, both featured at the Grand Old Opry, and Taylor’s college days found him in numerous bands. His band Rusted Shut’s album is still available on iTunes even though the band isn’t playing these days, and on his days off, he sometimes joins in with other groups on guitar.

Likewise, he’s always been an avid fan of science fiction books. Not merely content to read them, but also heeding the call to actively create the genre.

“I came home one day in 1999,” Taylor recalls, “and I was complaining to my wife that the book I was reading was horrible because it didn’t have any hard, scientific facts to it. My wife said, ‘Well, if you can do better, go write one yourself.’

Six weeks later, he had finished “Warp Speed”—the first of his collection of 14 completed science fiction novels.

“If you’re under 17, “Warp Speed” is a great one to check out,” offers Taylor, when pressed for his best work. “But if you are over 17, and can handle some language and violence, then my best selling series is called “One Day on Mars.” I just finished

Channel,” he says. “Space warfare was the topic, and they’d put that into Google. Apparently my name came up as an expert.

They flew me out to do a screen test, and ended up filming two episodes that day.

I did a total of 14 of them, and then I did nine or 10 episodes of Life After People. It was a lot of fun, but most people weren’t

“THE U.S. SPACE & ROCKET CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE

IS MY FAVORITE PLACE IN THE WHOLE WORLD,

PHOTO:

I COULD ABSOLUTELY GO THERE EVERY DAY.” the fourth in the series on that one and it should be out in March. Most of my fans are people in the military.”

However, Taylor would soon have fans beyond his fiction stories. “My wife and I began discussing how to reach more people after I’d published one of my books,” says Travis, who’d transitioned from the private sector in 2007 to a job building rockets for the Army. Ever excited by new opportunities, he was no means a stay-at-home author. “Then I got a phone call from the guys behind The Universe on The History Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at excursions.cityvision.tv

going to watch those shows unless they were science nerds like me. I wanted to do something fun, with science in it that people might enjoy, while also learning something without even realizing it.”

Taylor returned to Alabama energized.

He put his wife behind a camera and began filming a show that would offer science, with some action, fun and whimsy. He sent the pilot to the studios in Hollywood and the next weekend, they sent him the director of Survivor to film a sizzle reel in his yard.

“Nat Geo offered us a contract,” re-

calls Taylor, chuckling at the mixture of tenacity and luck that produced Rocket City Rednecks. Now in it’s third season, the show has 36 episodes completed and focuses on Taylor’s hillbilly ingenuity, with his family and friends often stepping in as cast members and the plots including backyard explosions.

When pressed if he would ever permanently relocate the California and purse a true acting career, the answer is a firm, “no.” For Taylor, who’s plenty busy in his role with the US Department of Defense building high-energy lasers and advanced propulsion concepts, it’s really Alabama that keeps him grounded. The state offers several things no other state can match.

“First of all,” he says, “it’s one of the most beautiful places in the country. I grew up hiking and camping and fishing. It’s a wonderful place. There’s something really Mark Twain about it. People here are hard workers, and I like living in an environment like that.”

The second is his proximity to all those great minds and incredible innovation in the military and science fields here—as well as his favorite place to play.

“The U.S. Space & Rocket center is my favorite place in the whole world,” he says.

“I could absolutely go there every day.” ❖ EXCURSIONS 17

1

4

2

5 3

Huntsville Celebrities Throughout its history, Huntsville has nurtured artists, performers, inventors, athletes and colorful characters who have helped make it the city it is today.

Here’s a quick glimpse at a few of the city’s most celebrated stars.

B Y K I M B E R LY BA L L A R D No. 1

Jimmy “Jimbo” Wales INTERNET ENTREPRENEUR

Jimbo Wales, cofounder of Wikipedia, the Internet’s most popular, free, open-content encyclopedia, was born and reared here under modest means. His father was a grocery store manager and his mother and grandmother were teachers who ran a small private institution in the days before home schooling was an option.

After grade school, he at18 EXCURSIONS

tended Randolph, a preparatory school in Huntsville, where he graduated at age 16. Wales was always a devoted reader and was, admittedly, influenced by the Montessori theory of using encyclopedias as the primary source for study.

He launched Wikipedia as a means for democratizing knowledge, meaning its content is not exclusive to an organization or individual license, but may be modified by anyone with information to share on a topic.

Although several people contributed to Wikipedia’s launch, Wales is the project’s main promoter and representative. Time magazine named him in its list of the world’s most inf luential people in 2006.

No. 2

Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery C I V I L R I G H T S AC T I V I S T

Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Barack

Obama on July 30, 2009, Reverend Joseph Lowery was born in Huntsville. He spent most of his youth here and attended Alabama A&M College before becoming a minister.

Lowery was a leader in the American civil rights movement and became the third president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, after Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King and his immediate successor, Reverend Dr. Ralph David Abernathy.

He participated in many of the

major civil rights movement activities of the 1960s and was honored at the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame.

No. 3

Tallulah Bankhead

PHOTOS: WIKIPEDIA, JOHN STALLWORTH FOUNDATION; THE HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY LIBRARY ARCHIVES, THE LOWERY INSTITUTE; PAUL MCDONALD BY LYNDON JACKSON

AC T R E S S

Tallulah Bankhead, the most famous—or perhaps the most infamous—stage and movie actress of her day, was born here in 1902.

Christened at the Episcopal Church of the Nativity on Eustis Avenue, Tallulah lived in an apartment in the Schiffman Building, still standing at 231 East Side Square.

Remembered as an extrovert, even as a child, the “Alabama Foghorn” began her career onstage in local Huntsville theaters. Her outspoken personality resulted in the often-outrageous exploits that continued throughout her professional life.

No. 4

John Stallworth F O O T B A L L P L AY E R

John Stallworth became an All-Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference receiver for Alabama A&M, before becoming a fourth-round draft pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1974, where he played 165 games in 14 seasons. The former Hall of Fame wide receiver won six AFC championships and played in four Super Bowls, catching the

game-winning passes in two of them.

Stallworth went on to become a devoted local philanthropist, founding Huntsvillebased Madison Research in 1987. He currently chairs many boards of directors, including the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, the Huntsville Botanical Garden Foundation and his own John Stallworth Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1984 to provide scholarships to students attending Alabama A&M University.

No. 5

Paul McDonald A M E R I C A N I D O L C O N T E S TA N T

Paul McDonald, a Huntsville native, won the hearts of America during season 10 of American Idol with his Southern charm and infamous grin.

A graduate of Huntsville High School and Auburn University, Paul currently lives in Nashville, Tenn., and is the lead singer for the band The Grand Magnolias, formerly named Hightide Blues.

From 2007-2010, the band played between 150 and 200 shows a year across the country.

No. 6

Dr. Jan Davis SH UT TLE ASTRONAUT

Dr. Jan Davis was born in Cocoa Beach, Fla., but has always called Huntsville home.

Inducted into the Alabama

6

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at excursions.cityvision.tv

Aviation Hall of Fame and the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame, Davis graduated from Huntsville High School in 1971 and received both a master’s degree and a doctorate in mechanical engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

In 1987, she received the Marshall Space Flight Center’s Director’s Commendation, qualifying her as an astronaut and mission specialist on space shuttle flight crews.

She went on to be a threetime space shuttle veteran, logging 673 hours in space.

She also has a long list of distinguished awards, including the 2005 NASA Space Flight Awareness Leadership Award, the NASA Exceptional Service Medal (twice!) and the 2002 Presidential Rank of Meritorious Executive, making her one of Huntsville’s aerospace and engineering stars.

No. 7

Lily Flagg WO R L D R E C O R D H O L D E R

In June 1892, Samuel B. Moore’s prized Jersey milk cow, Lily Flagg, broke the world record for butter production in a single year by producing 1,047 pounds, 6¾ ounces— beating the previous record by 19 pounds.

The prominent Huntsville plantation owner honored Lily with a party the likes of which the town had never seen. He threw a sophisticated soiree,

7

for which he painted his mansion bright yellow and built a 50-foot dancing platform, which he then strung with one of the first electric lighting systems in southeast Huntsville.

Visitors to this five-block area of town will see Lily Flagg memorialized in business names, streets and even apartment complexes.

No. 8

Wernher von Braun ROC KET SCIE NTIST

Shortly after surrendering a team of 500 German rocket scientists, numerous plans and V-2 test vehicles to the Americans during WWII, Wernher von Braun and his countrymen arrived at Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal, where they built the U.S. Army’s Jupiter ballistic missile.

Having found grand success building military weaponry, he set about using rocket science to develop a manned space flight program.

In 1960, after Eisenhower had established the National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA), von Braun received a mandate to build the family of powerful rockets that would make him the architect of the Saturn V, the super-booster that sent Americans to the moon.

Von Braun became a leading spokesperson for the space program and was instrumental to Huntsville’s success as The Rocket City. ❖

8

EXCURSIONS 19

13 Things To Do Downtown Huntsville’s thriving downtown area is brimming with sights, sounds and tastes for you to experience. Take a walk and take it all in…

20 EXCURSIONS

EXCURSIONS 21

DOWNTOWNHUNTSVILLE

LOCAL FAVORITE

Belle Chevre Cheese Shop and Tasting Room 100 Jefferson Street N. 256.732.3577; bellechevre.com

This year, 2014, marks the 25th year Fromagerie Belle Chevre has been making award-winning goat cheese in the tiny hamlet of Elkmont, Alabama. In 2013, Belle Chevre renovated an old cotton warehouse in the heart of downtown Elkmont into a beautiful, artisan goat cheese creamery. Recently, Belle Chevre expanded into the heart of downtown Huntsville with the Belle Chevre Tasting Room and Cheese Shop. Located in the growing Artisan District, Belle Chevre offers great sandwiches, cheese plates and ice cream along with many of the Fromagerie favorites such as cheese-making kits and a wide selection of Belle Chevre goat cheeses. Stop by for free cheese tastings, special events throughout the year and free cornhole games every day.

Scan the code to access Belle Chevre’s mobile profile at www.excursions. cityvision.tv where you may view their Facebook feed, find them on a map, tap to call, go to their website and more.

22 EXCURSIONS

1 |

Grab a Craft Beer and Catch the Game

What better way to reward yourself for all that walking than by tossing back a cold beer? Humphrey’s Bar & Grill is the place to go in downtown Huntsville to enjoy your favorite craft and import beers. Their motto is “come for the food, stay for the fun.” And the fun extends to the outdoor two-level patio with a stage that boasts live music most nights of the week. Most recently joining the downtown scene are Below the Radar Brewhouse, Huntsville’s first brewhouse featuring good eats and a vast array of beers on tap, The Office Breakroom & Bar which features an $8 lunch menu and D’Licious Dining & Smokehouse Grill which is located in cool, retro building and is known for BBQ and jerk chicken.

2 |

Experience City Center Nightlife

Whether you’re looking to grab a drink and chill to some tunes or shake what your momma gave ya, you can find just the right spot in downtown Huntsville. Live bands are a mainstay at many bars and clubs, including Humphrey’s Bar & Grill, the Furniture Factory and Voodoo Lounge, where you can also grab a bite to eat. Or, you can rock out at such local favorites as Sammy T’s Music Hall, Huntsville Brewery and FUBAR. Don’t miss Amendment XXI and Ruth’s Chris Steak House, downtown favorites, for a handcrafted cocktail and an appetizer. See our downtown map on pages 30-31 for locations.

D OWNTOWNHUNTSVILLE

3 |

Rock Out at the Von Braun Center

Whether you’re in the mood for a rowdy sports event, a rockin’ concert or a traveling Broadway show, the Von Braun Center is your go-to entertainment venue. On any given night, there’s something spectacular happening at Huntsville’s premier multipurpose complex. No matter what type of event you’ve arrived to watch, make your first stop at the Bud Light Café. This full-service bar and grill is open before and after arena events to make sure your refreshment needs are covered —including over 30 different craft beers located throughout the main concourse. Then it’s time for the show!

Sports aficionados will find

no shortage of cheering opportunities–the VBC is the home of the Huntsville Havoc and UA Huntsville Chargers hockey teams, as well as the Alabama Hammers football team. Families will love being entertained at events like the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus and Disney on Ice. For the DIY-er in each of you, check out The Building, Home & Remodeling Show, The Tennessee Valley Hunting & Fishing Expo or The Fall Home & Garden Show. If you’re craving entertainment that’s a bit more cultured, the VBC has the hottest tickets in town. The Broadway Theatre League, Huntsville Symphony Orchestra and the Huntsville Community Ballet all call the VBC home, as do

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Theatre Huntsville and the Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There’s always something to do at The Von Braun Center–top-billing concerts, A-list comedians, family entertainment extravaganzas and so much more. Check them out on the web at vonbrauncenter.com.

Scan the code to access Von Braun Center’s mobile profile at www. excursions.cityvision.tv to view their Facebook feed, find them on a map and more.

Seasonal Calendar ALABAMA HAMMERS

March - June BROADWAY THEATRE LEAGUE

October - March HUNTSVILLE COMMUNITY BALLET

October - April HUNTSVILLE HAVOC

October - March HUNTSVILLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

September - April UA HUNTSVILLE CHARGERS

October - January

EXCURSIONS 23

DOWNTOWNHUNTSVILLE

5 |

Tour Historic (and sometimes Haunted) Homes

Due to its occupation by Union troops during the Civil War (and the hard work of the Historic Huntsville Foundation), the city of Huntsville boasts more homes on the National Register of Historic Places than any other in Alabama. Located downtown, the Twickenham District is one of the South’s best-kept secrets, featuring more than 60 antebellum homes, businesses and churches.

In addition to these Southern beauties, the city also boasts some outstanding examples of early 20th century architecture. Two residences are open to the public year-round, the Humphrey-Rodgers House and the Weeden House, now a museum.

4 |

Explore Big Spring International Park

Without a doubt, Big Spring International Park is the epicenter of life and culture in Huntsville. Big Spring lured settlers here over 200 years ago, and the city has celebrated it ever since, growing up around this green space and preserving it for its citizens. Throughout the year, the park plays host to numerous events, including the Panoply Arts Festival and many concerts. But you don’t have to wait for a major event to enjoy the park. Children will love the famously friendly ducks, geese and koi that call the lagoon home. Or, use the park as a starting point for your exploration of Huntsville. It’s bordered on all sides by some of the city’s most-visited landmarks, such as the Huntsville Museum of Art and the Von Braun Center. As you explore, be sure to take stock of the international gifts to the city, such as the lighthouse from Norway and the famous red bridge and cherry trees from Japan. Visitors can enjoy strolling the walking trail, stopping for a peaceful picnic or even surfing the web courtesy of free Wi-Fi.

LOCAL FAVORITE

The Brew Stooges Craft Beer Brewery and Taproom 109 Maple Avenue, Huntsville 256.503.2233; Find us on Facebook

For a truly unique experience, stop by the taproom and brewing facility for The Brew Stooges. Owners, Jeff, Chris and Tracy, will take you on a tasting tour of their many styles of beer and you may even witness the brewing process while you’re there. Their many beer recipes range from an English style

24 EXCURSIONS

Bitter to a Russian Imperial Stout. In between are a collection of porters, a big rye pale, a German-style hefeweizen and a series of inventive seasonal beers such as the holiday spiced ale Yam I Am, and Dizzy Dame, a surprisingly potent raspberry honey blond. The taproom is open from 5 p.m. til 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Scan the code to access their mobile profile at www.excursions. cityvision.tv to view their Facebook feed, find them on a map and more.

D OWNTOWNHUNTSVILLE

6 |

Experience World Class Art and Performances

Looking for a cultured night out on the town? Head to the Von Braun Center (VBC) for a variety of performances by local, regional and national groups. Enjoy all that Huntsville performing arts has to offer by visiting the luxurious Mark C. Smith Concert Hall. Treat yourself to an evening with the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra and enjoy classical and modern performances led by new maestro Gregory Vajda. For information, visit www.hso.org.

The Huntsville Community Ballet also calls the VBC home. Visit huntsvilleballet.org for a schedule of performances by some of the country’s most talented dancers.

The VBC hosts Broadway Theatre League shows, brought straight from NYC to the Rocket City. For a list of dates and shows, visit www.broadwaytheatreleague. org. Looking for local theater talent?

The Von Braun Center Playhouse plays host to the Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater (letthemagicbegin.org) and Theatre Huntsville (yourseatiswaiting.org).

7 |

Discover Park Place and A.M. Booth’s Lumberyard

Located just blocks north of the square, Park Place Plaza and A.M. Booth’s Lumberyard is Huntsville’s newest, coolest shopping destination and event venue. Browse the J. Leko Furniture Maker, Allison Jansen Photography and Switch House Gifts for something to take home, shape your hairstyle at Vain Salon, grab a bike and cruise uptown and downtown Huntsville from Bicycles Etc. and finish off the day with a cocktail on the patio of the Lone Goose Saloon. Be sure to step into A.M. Booth’s hundred-year-old Lumberyard, offering the most original party space in the heart of “Uptown” Huntsville. The large outdoor courtyard, surrounded by lounging nooks, covered bars and banquet areas, includes a raised covered stage that can easily host a band, DJ or banquet. For more information visit parkplaceplaza.com or thelumberyard.info.

LOCAL FAVORITE

Clinton Row 102 Clinton Avenue East 256.701.0818; find us on Facebook

Clinton Row, presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union, is an innovative project of nine street-level storage units re-purposed into retail incubators aimed at artisans and entrepreneurs. Offering a wide variety of eclectic creations, Clinton Row provides a unique retail experience at the high visibility intersection of Clinton and Jefferson Streets. Merchandise ranges

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

from health products to men’s and women’s clothing to locally and regionally made art and artisan products. The Revolve Gallery is a gallery and exhibit space that local artists and artisans can rent in two-week increments for short-term displays, shows and exhibits. In addition, Clinton Row is located in the Quigley Entertainment District, which allows patrons to enjoy their favorite beverage as they browse the Clinton Row businesses. Come on out and shop local in Downtown Huntsville!

EXCURSIONS 25

8Â |

Stop by The Visitor Center

Need information about what to do during your stay in the Rocket City? Stop by The Visitor Center, located in the lobby of the Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau in downtown Huntsville. Pick up Passport coupons to use at area attractions. Sports fan? Pick up an AllStar Sports Pass which allows you to buy one ticket and get one FREE to the Dixie Derby Girls roller derby, Huntsville Havoc hockey, Rocket City Titans football and Rocket City United Soccer. The Visitor Center is also the perfect place to pick up a Rocket City souvenir, an Arts & Entertainment Pass or just get a cold bottle of water to sip on.

For more information about The Visitor Center and to see online listings of where to stay, shop, dine and play, call 800.SPACE.4.U or visit huntsville.org.

Scan the code to access their mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv to view their Facebook feed, find them on Scan a map and themore. code to access The Visitors Center’s mobile

profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv to view their Facebook feed, find them on a map and more.

26 EXCURSIONS

D OWNTOWNHUNTSVILLE

9 |

Grab a Bite to Eat

One thing’s for sure—you won’t go hungry while you’re visiting downtown Huntsville. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, there are plenty of options to please your palate. For a weekday lunch, try The Eaves for a mix of inventive salads, homemade soups and bisques and gourmet sandwiches.

They also deliver! LeeAnn’s offers fun food and great spirits in a casual dining setting with an outdoor bar and game room. Meat lover? Be sure to stop in Ruth’s Chris Steak House at the Embassy Suites for the city’s best steak. If you’re in the mood for something more casual, try Papou’s Greek Cuisine for some authentic, old country favorites or Sam & Greg’s Pizzeria for pizza, stromboli and other Italian specialties. See the map on pages 30-31 for details.

LOCAL FAVORITE

Humphrey’s Bar + Grill 103 Washington Street NE 256.704.5555 humphreysdowntown.com

Humphrey’s Bar + Grill, now smoke-free, features an open-air, New Orleans style patio that is a favorite hangout for locals and was rated one of the Top 3 in Huntsville. Enjoy home-cooked favorites with an original twist and an extensive craft beer list that includes favorites from Huntsville’s local breweries.

With a focus on buying local and organic, Humphrey’s menu selections include their mouthwatering pimento cheese, all Angus beef burgers, BBQ sliders, and wings with homemade dipping sauce. From acoustic folk to rock-n-roll and down home blues, Humphrey’s is also the place to come to catch the best live music in town. So don’t forget your dancing shoes!

10 |

Have a Blast at a Fun-Filled Festival

Looking for a fun event with local flair? Huntsville boasts a number of annual events (see Calendar of Events on pages 76-80). If you’re visiting Huntsville in the spring, don’t miss the Panoply Arts Festival, held in Big Spring Park the last weekend of April.

Panoply celebrates music, dance, theater and visual arts, featuring local artists, musicians and actors. For more information visit artshuntsville.org. Are you a BBQ lover? The Annual WhistleStop Weekend is the area’s premier music and BBQ festival, held in May on the grounds of the Huntsville Depot Museum. This festival features live entertainment on two stages, Space Camp Kid’s Zone, professional and amateur BBQ cooking competitions and the Alabama Cornnhole Competition. For more information, visit thewhistlestopfestival.com Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Scan the code below to access Humphrey’s Bar + Grill’s mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv where you may view their Facebook feed, find them on a map, tap to call, go to their website and more.

EXCURSIONS 27

DOWNTOWNHUNTSVILLE

LOCAL FAVORITE

Below the Radar Brewhouse 220 Holmes Avenue NE 256.469.6617; btrbrew.com

Below the Radar is Huntsville’s first micro-brewhouse situated in the Historic Huntsville Times Building in the recently established “downtown entertainment district.” Named one of the best bourbon bars in America, Below the Radar is a great place to have lunch or meet after work for socializing with friends and co-workers. BTR is known for its one-of-a-kind variety of microbrews, extensive wine list and liquor drinks and its inventive array of food by their own in-house chef. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday night to make it a night to remember.

BTR is open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch and has thirty-two rotating draft beers from all over the world on tap including four craft brews made in-house. They also offer an extensive selection of bottle beers, focusing on seasonal and limited-production brews.

Scan the code to access BTR’s mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision. tv to view their Facebook feed, find them on a map, tap to call, go to their website and more.

28 EXCURSIONS

11 |

Get Cultured

Located in the heart of downtown Huntsville in Big Spring Park, the nationally accredited Huntsville Museum of Art fills its numerous galleries with a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, including prestigious traveling exhibits, the work of nationally and regionally acclaimed artists and exhibits from the museum’s own 3,000-piece permanent collection. After you take in the art, stop in the Museum Store for unique jewelry, pottery, glasswork and more. Then enjoy Italian fare for lunch or dinner at Pane e Vino Pizzeria.

Museum hours: Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m.; Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; closed Mondays. Admission charged. Located at 300 Church Street S. in downtown Huntsville. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

D OWNTOWNHUNTSVILLE

12 |

Explore Downtown Public Art

Be sure to take a walk and discover the downtown installments of the SPACES Biennial Sculpture Trail—a collaborative project developed in 2010 by The Arts Council, Inc., Alabama A&M University, Huntsville Museum of Art, Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment Center and UAH. Originally designed as a biennial sculpture installation, the founding institutions welcomed the Madison Arts Council to the SPACES Sculpture Trail project in 2012. Now featuring 36 total sculptures – 32 works on temporary loan to SPACES and four permanent installations on the UAHuntsville campus – SPACES is designed to engage and enliven the Huntsville/ Madison County community through a large-scale public art installation. SPACES Sculpture Trail features the work of 21 artists from 11 states across the eastern US. Explore SPACES through walking, GPS and cell phone guided tours.

See spacessculpturetrail.org or call 256.519.2787 for more information.

LOCAL FAVORITE

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 800 Monroe Street, Embassy Suites 256.539.3930; ruthschris.com

13 |

Go Back in Time

Kids and adults alike will be impressed by the re-created world of the past at Alabama Constitution Village (shown left), where interpreters live the lives of early Huntsville settlers. But don’t let the fun stop there—head over to the EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, where clever, hands-on exhibits make the past come alive for kids. Favorites include the Talking Tree, Kidstruction Zone and the General Store.

And who doesn’t love trains?

Stop by the Huntsville Depot Museum for a ride through railroad history. Can’t decide which one you want to visit? See all three and enjoy a discount.

Call 256.564.8100 for more information. See the map on pages 30-31 for locations.

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Huntsville is situated in the lobby of the Embassy Suites Hotel, conveniently located near Big Spring Park and The Von Braun Center in beautiful downtown Huntsville. Deep, rich reds with accents of teal and copper predominate the steakhouse dining room, while the dense foliage of the open-atrium hotel envelops our restaurant in an air of casual elegance. Private dining rooms offer a variety of event options for 10 to 300 guests.

Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, an important business luncheon, a social event or an all-day meeting, Ruth’s Chris of Huntsville can accommodate your needs.

Scan the code below to access Ruth’s Chris Steak House’s mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv where you may view their Facebook feed, find them on a map, tap to call, go to their website to make a reservation and more.

EXCURSIONS 29

Mon roe St

Brown St NW B

Woodson St NW

SW

Engle Dr SW

ok C reek

SW Dr ng i n n E Mae S

s Av Echol

re an C Fag

ADdavis amCir SW sS tS E

e am Av

SW

Pelh Mcclung Ave SE

St Clair Ave SW

SE St lin nk Fra

PHOTO:

NW

Cle ve lan dA ve NW

Da lla sA ve

Will iam s Av eS Pinh W o

St SW

rn lifo Ca

Ga lla tin

Cr

; E Governors Dr SW eS v A s Map locations are approximate. Map not mto scale. For reference use only. See www.excursions.cityvision.tv maps with driving directions, Facebook page feeds, websites and more. llia i W E 30 EXCURSIONS E nS L S ly ter Governors Dr SW

SE St lin nk

Cir SE

St SW Fackler

Seminole e Dr SW

SE St ne ee Gr

231 2 23 1

SE St ln co Lin

E eS v A tes a G

Fra SE St ite Wh

a 7

E eS Av s m llia W Wi hite

q

SW Cir

Dr ou SSW

4

1

SW

Sq e d si 6 th x 5

0

u So

e Av

Bi nf or d

t ur e o C us Ho

s 5

we Lo

W tS hS urc Ch

r

N

0 g

SE St ne ee Gr

W tS S g rin Sp

2 p ce Sq 5fhsid north

q eS sid h t

n tai un Fo

SE St ln co Lin

W

ton Clin

q eS tsid Eas

W ve A on int

eAve

St on dis Ma

t y

SE ve CENTER A s sti BIG SPRING Eu PARK

S lph do n Ra

Wells Ave SE

t ur Co use o H

SE ve A tes Ga W tS hS urc Ch

E tS S 8 lph oVON d n Ra BRAUN

ve sA e lm Ho

q r j 4

No

3 8

W tN dS lar Pol

3 W 231N

q eS sid h rt

E

q eS tsid Eas

NE St ne ee Gr

NW St e o

Holmes Ave NW

eW Av n nto Cli

SW St ng i r Sp

Linc oln St N E

NE

e NW Av ve n A es nto lm Ho Cli St on dis Ma

41 43 431

ve 9 lA

o ho Sc

e NW s Av agin Spr

NW

NE St ith Sm

E eN v rA lke a W

7

8

6

NE St ne ee Gr

Mo

W tN hS urc Ch

565

Linc oln St N E

W

7nroe St N E tN sS lla Da

Meridia n St N

E eN v A we o H

Turner St SW

uk

E eN Av r lke Wa

S

Pinh ook Cree k

9

E tN sS lla Da

4 431 431

w

565

NW St ton ng shi Wa tN son S Jeffer

W tN rS e Fib

,m d 4v Ave NE w ole2Howe 3 q

2

Meridia n St N

0

8 COZY COW 100 Church Street SW, 256.213.7479

E eS Av n a wm Ne

Colorado St SE

e FURNITURE FACTORY BAR & GRILL 619 Meridian Street N, 256.539.8001 r HUMPHREY’S BAR & GRILL 103 Washington Street NE, 256.704.5555 t JEFFERSON STREET PUB 111 Jefferson Street N, 256.519.2997

eek

SE ve A d sen wn To

6 i

9

SE ve sA d n Ra SE St in nkl Fra

PHOTO:

California St SE

y KAFFEEKLATSCH 103 Jefferson Street N, 256.539.1636 u LEE ANNE’S 415E Church Street NW, Ste. 12 256.489.9300 i LITTLE PAUL’S 815 Madison Street SE, 256.536.7227 o LONE GOOSE SALOON 108 Cleveland Ave. NW, 256.715.0705 p MICKEY’S UPSTAIRS 109 Northside Square, 256.533.0148

s PANE E VINO 300 Church Street SW, 256.533.1180

Goldsmith St SE

Windham St SE

w MAPLE HILL CEMETARY 202 Maple Hill Drive, 256.539.5537

l SANDWICH FARM 106 Cleveland Ave. NW, 256.715.7130

e CLINTON ROW 102 Clinton Ave. E, 256.701.0818

; STANLIEO’S SUB VILLA 602 Governors Drive SW, 256.536.6585

r LOWE MILL 2211 Seminole Drive, 256.533.0399

z TED’S BBQ 212 Andrew Jackson Way, 256.536.5002

Stores, Spas Mcclung Ave Salons, SE

x THE VOODOO LOUNGE 110 Southside Square, 256.539.0335

1 ATTITUDES DAY SPA 601 Humes Ave., 256.534.7001

Locust Ave SE c THE OFFICE

2 BICYCLES ETC. 611 Meridian Street N, 256.519.9233

121 Northside Square, 256.964.7373

v D’LICIOUS DINING & SMOKEHOUSE GRILL 255 PrattSE Ave., 256.469.7271 Hermitag e Ave b THAI GARDEN 800 Wellman Ave., 256.534.0122 Harrison Ave SE n A CUP OF EVERYTHING

103 Northside Square, 256.288.3247

m EMMA’S Fraser AveTEA SEROOM

Attractions

Sier ra B 7 LEWTER’S HARDWARE lvd S 222EWashington Street NE, 256.539.5777

8 RAILROAD STATION ANTIQUES

1 ALABAMA CONSTITUTION VILLAGE Rd SE lawAve., 109Tun Gates 256.564.8124 k ee Cr

an 2 DOWNTOWN DOG ag PARK/SKATE PARK F

200 Cleveland Ave. NW

3 DOWNTOWN YMCA Woodmont 101 Church Street Ave SE SW, 256.319.9622 4 EARLYWORKS MUSEUM 404 Madison Street, 256.564.8100

4 GARDEN COVE PRODUCE 628 Meridian Street N, 256.534.2683

6 LAWREN’S GIFTS 809 Madison Street SE, 256.534.4428

401 Pratt Ave., 256.489.5850

, OLD TOWNE COFFEE SHOP 511 Prattd Ave., 256.539.5399 Bluefiel Ave SE

3 ENVY 617 Meridian Street N, 617-A, 256.539.6790

5 HARRISON BROTHERS HARDWARE 124 Southside Square, 256.536.3631

a PAPOU’S AUTHENTIC GREEK Lowe ll Dr RESTAURANT SE 5 HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART 110 Southside Square, 256.534.5553 300 Church Street SW , 256.535.4350

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Maysville Rd NE

Grayson St NE

k SHEA’S EXPRESS 415 Church Street NW, 256.532.5282

SE lian St Carme

SE ly eA s ru

q FUBAR 109 Washington Street NE, 256.715.8042

q BICENTENNIAL PARK 315 Fountain Circle

Dr SE

7 COTTON ROW 100 Southside Square, 256.382.9500

j SAMMY T’S MUSIC HALL 97 Washington Street, 256.539.9974

Lexington St

300 Franklin Street NE, 256.382.6622

w THE EAVES 501 Church Street NW, 256.489.1752

Cambridge St SE Grayson St SE

Kingsbury Ave SE

6 COMMERCE KITCHEN

0 DALLAS MILL DELI 500 Pratt Ave. NW, 256.489.3354

0 WEEDEN HOUSE 300 Gates Ave., 256.536.7718

Mo nte rre y

4 THE BOTTLE 101 Washington Street, 256.704.5555

9 HUNTSVILLE BREWERY 801 Franklin Street SE, 256.469.6743 Scan the code below to access Downtown Huntsville, Inc.’s mobile profile at www.excursions. cityvision.tv where you E S Ln may view their Facebook er t s feed, find themanonni a map, B view photos and more.

Minor St NE

Girard St SE

h SAM & GREG’S PIZZERIA 119 Northside Square, 256.533.9030

Tennessee St SE

Mcclung Ave eS SE

Weschase Cir SE

Ad am sS tS E

Minor St SE

England St SE

3 BELOW THE RADAR BREWHOUSE 220 Holmes Ave. NE, 256.469.6617

5 CLUB RUSH 109 Northside Square, 256.715.8981 E VON BRAUN Ave S Echols CENTER

7 VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK 200-298 Monroe Street NW

Wells Ave SE SE 8 VON BRAUN RdCENTER ate Street, 256.533.1953 700 Monroe G l Tol g RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 9 VISITOR CENTER Highland Ave SE 500 Church Street NW, 256.533.5723 800 Monroe Street SW, 256.539.3930

SE St

SE ve A s sti Eu

d PARTNERS BAR AND GRILL 627 Meridian Street N, 256.539.0975

Randolph Ave SE

f DOWNTOWN DINER 109 Northside Square, 256.715.8981

2 AMENDMENT XXI 123 Northside Square, 256.715.0131 a rni lifo Ca

SE St ite Wh

Your Downtown To-Do List made possible by generous donations from Whi these sponsors! te C ir S E

SE St

1 1892 EAST RESTAURANT 720 Pratt Ave. NE, 256.489.1242 Maple Hill St SE

w

Clinton Ave E

Randolph St SE

Restaurants & Bars Wells Ave SE

Wellman Ave NE

Olive Dr

Coleman St SE

NE St ith Sm

eE Av n o nt Cli

Shop, Dine & Explore Downtown Huntsville Lacy St SE Lacy St NE

E eN Av

England St NE

ol ho Sc

Coleman St NE

b

1 1z

Olive315 Jefferson Street N, 256.533.6550 Dr S E 9 SHINE SALON

301 Holmes Ave. NE, 256.539.0686

0 SPA BOTANICA (EMBASSY SUITES) 800 Monroe Street SW, 256.539.7373 q SO VAIN SALON 609 Meridian Street N, 256.551.1010 w THE SWITCH HOUSE 120-A Cleveland Ave. NW 256.656.3346 ❖

6 HISTORIC HUNTSVILLE DEPOT 320 Church Street NW, 256.564.8100

EXCURSIONS 31

Explore Madison!

H

HENRY DAVID THOREAU WROTE: Let me live where I will, on this side is the city, on that the wilderness. Not too many years ago this applied to the City of Madison—Redstone Arsenal and Marshall Space Flight Center to the east, cotton fields and gravel roads to the west. Today, the City of Madison, a suburb of Huntsville and the fastest growing city in the state of Alabama, is a rare and eclectic combination of historic charm and progressive innovation.

Over the last two decades, the population of Madison has grown rapidly, from approximately 5,000 residents to almost 50,000! With all this growth came the demand for high-quality services, restaurants, retail, parks and green space and family recreation opportunities. However, care has been given to ensure Madison maintained its aesthetic beauty and consistent, highquality growth. Attention to details such as meticulous zoning, green space protection and recruitment of quality businesses has defended the harmonious subsistence of progress and preservation, earning the City of Madison a spot on Money Magazine’s “100 Best Places to Live” list.

Madison’s character is found in its rolling hills, family-friendli32 EXCURSIONS

ness, graceful trees, recreational opportunities and excellent schools.

With regularly scheduled festivals and events, Madison is a place to connect with others. During the first weekend in October, more than 20,000 citizens and visitors take pleasure in a truly southern tradition—Madison Street Festival—which offers numerous opportunities to shop the wares of eclectic artisans and vendors.

The healthy business climate is augmented and maintained through Madison’s labor force. Industry draws on a highly educated population with nearly 70 percent holding bachelor’s degrees and 17 percent with advanced degrees.

While other areas of the country are still emerging from the recent economic decline, Madison’s housing market and business climate have remained healthy and strong. The further expansion of Madison’s western boundary and the addition of over 800 single family homes provide an expansive range of housing prices for new families, professionals and empty-nesters. City partnership with the Madison Chamber of Commerce and active recruitment are a couple of reasons more than 450 thriving businesses call Madison home.

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

W H E R E PR O GR E S S M E E T S PR E S E RVAT ION

EXPL OREMADISON Find a Food Truck The food truck revolution is also gaining speed in Madison. On-On Tacos and Food Fighter Bustaurant, Badd Newz BBq and Sugar Belle can be found at Blue Pants Brewery, concerts in the parks, Bob Jones High School and local church events. Find them on Facebook to see where to locate them. It’s worth the chase!

Admire Our Public Art The Madison Arts Council teamed with the Madison City Council, city leaders, The Arts Council of Huntsville and Huntsville city leaders to expand the SPACES Sculpture Trail into Madison.

Madison’s participation has grown to eight works displayed with the generous funding from Madison City Council along with help from The Arts Council. You can find the works of art at the following locations: four at Dublin Park, three installed downtown and one at city hall.

Sample Our Local Brews PHOTOS: (TOP RIGHT) B LUIZ 60 | DREAMSTIME.COM; (BOTTOM LEFT) NEJRON | DREAMSTIME.COM

Local breweries in Madison are contributing to the new moniker for this area of the state: The Napa Valley of Craft Beer. Blue Pants Brewery was the first to open its doors in Madison and by the end of 2014 Rocket Republic Brewing Co. and Old Black Bear Brewing Co., located in historic downtown, will also call Madison home.

Scan this code of Madison’s mto access City www.excursion obile profile s.cityvision.tv Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXPL OREMADISON

Get in a Few Rounds or Catch Some Air Insanity Complex, located off of Hughes Road, is a 38,000 sq. ft. world-class extreme skatepark for skateboarding and aggressive inline skating. Tee’d Off Golf at Insanity Complex offers 9, 18, or 27 holes of challenging miniature golf—rated for everyone. The complex also offers seven batting cages for baseball and softball and a full service pro shop.

Attend The Madison Street Festival The annual Madison Street Festival (MSF) returns to historic downtown Madison every year the first Saturday of October. The festival is free. The MSF celebrates the people, music, food and art of Madison. It’s a fun-filled family day that showcases the best of our town and reminds us why Madison is such a great community.

The MSF has been recognized as one of the top 20 fall festivals in the State of Alabama with hundreds of vendors, artisans, performers, original works of art, muscle cars, a petting zoo, music, floats, marching bands, and tons of food. New this year: gourmet food trucks! madisonstreetfestival.org

Shoppes of Madison, located on Highway 72, Madison’s east-west corridor to the north is anchored by Target and includes over 230,000 squarefeet of national retail and casual dining opportunities like Pie in the Sky, Smash Burger and Panera Bread. The Village Shoppes of Madison, located on County Line Road, features a Publix, Tuesday Morning and several other specialty retailers, such as Vape On! Madison and Sakura Japanese Steak House.

LOCAL FAVORITE

Vape On! Electronic Cigarettes & Supplies 12090 County Line Road Ste. K, Madison, AL 35756 256.233.4544; vapeonmadison.com

Vape On! is a unique retail store specializing in a wide range of electronic cigarettes, e-liquids and accessories.

They provide the highest quality e-cig hardware, the finest premium e-liquid, and most importantly, customer satisfaction. They opened their first store in 2013 and since have helped many people kick the tobacco monster. Their mission is to educate and cultivate consumers’ knowledge on electronic cigarettes and vaping to help them quit smoking. Their experienced staff is ready to answer questions and assist you with selecting the perfect e-cigs and e-liquids. Scan code to access their mobile profile.

34

EXCURSIONS

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

PHOTOS: (TOP RIGHT) ROB HAINER | DREAMSTIME.COM; (BUBBLE) LOGOBOOM | DREAMSTIME.COM; (MIDDLE AND BOTTOM) BRENT BOYD

Shop ‘Til You Drop

EXPL OREMADISON

Tickle Your Taste Buds For a fantastic meal with show-stopping flair, check out Sakura Japanese Steak House. Looking for something sweet? Whistle Stop Sweet Shop is sure to please. A few other favorite dining spots are Sam & Greg’s Pizzeria on County Line Road, Main Street Café and Bandito Burrito in downtown Madison. See a comprehensive list of eateries in Madison in the Dining section of this publication.

LOCAL FAVORITE

Whistle Stop Sweet Shop

PHOTOS: (TOP LEFT AND RIGHT) BRENT BOYD; (BOTTOM) DAN GUBIC | DREAMSTIME.COM

104 Main Street, Madison, AL 35758 256.325.8838; whistlestopsweets.com

Share a Selfie Using #VisitMadisonAL! Snap a selfie at a Madison hotspot or landmark and share it with #VisitMadisonAL and be entered to win a monthly giveaway. Selfies that are most shared and favorited will be entered into our drawing. If chosen, you could win a gift certificate from an area merchant!

Selfie must clearly identify a Madison location to qualify.

Share to win! #VisitMadisonA L

Stop by the Whistle Stop Sweet Shop for a uniquely nostalgic confectionary experience. Choose from more than a dozen different flavors of fresh, homemade fudge (their specialty), hand-dipped confections made daily and a sweet assortment of candy sold by the scoop. They have everything from jawbreakers to gummy bears to old-fashioned whirly pops to rock candy on a stick. Family owned and operated, you will instantly feel right at home as you are guided through the vast selection of sweets – guaranteed to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. Sit inside or out and enjoy one of seven flavors of true artisan gelato and you’ll probably catch a glimpse of a train speeding through the middle of Historic Downtown Madison. This is the perfect place to purchase gifts, gift baskets and party trays. No room in your carry on? No worries. They’ll ship it to you. Whether you have little ones to entertain while in town or you just want to indulge a sweets craving, a visit to the Whistle Stop Sweet Shop is a must! Scan code to access their mobile profile.

EXCURSIONS 35

EXPL OREMADISON

Stroll Historic Downtown Madison In 1856, tracks were laid by the Memphis and Charleston Railroad Company, then families moved into the region for its fertile farmland, merchants were attracted and a business district founded.

Even 155 years ago, people knew a good thing when they saw it.

Today, downtown Madison Station historic district is the iconic and practical heart of Madison, plus a dining/arts/entertainment district for residents and visitors. Pedestrian and stroller-friendly sidewalks provide convenient access to shops like Whistle Stop Sweet Shop, restaurants and a craft brewery, Old Black Bear Brewing Co. The air is filled daily with the sound of church bells and train whistles adding yet another layer of nostalgia and community warmth.

LOCAL FAVORITE

Sakura Japanese Steak House 12090 Ste. P County Line Road, Madison, AL 35756 256.233.6955; sakuramadison.com

36 EXCURSIONS

What the Future Holds

to access City Scan this code obile profile m ’s of Madison s.cityvision.tv www.excursion

Ground was broken in late 2014 to make way for a $400 million, 700 acre development called Town Madison. Located near I-565 and Madison Blvd., the new development will include 900,000 square feet of retail space, 450,000 square feet of office space, 445 hotel rooms and 668 apartments. It’s being touted as “the apple of the eye of the Tennessee valley,” once completed.

PHOTOS: BRENT BOYD

Sakura Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar offers only the highest quality in steaks, seafood and poultry. Their sushi is sourced from all over the world. For an unforgettable time, try lunch or dinner at one of their hibachi tables where other adventurous diners will join you. Skilled hibachi chefs will prepare your dinner with flair of knife-flinging and flaming fun. Request to visit the sushi bar where you can observe trained sushi chefs prepare fresh sushi specials right in front of your eyes. Using the freshest ingredients, the sushi chef will create artistic masterpieces just for you. Sakura also specializes in catering and private parties at your location or in their restaurant for an unforgettable experience. Scan code to access their mobile profile.

EXPL OREMADISON

PHOTOS: (TOP LEFT) MATTHEW ENNIS PHOTOGRAPHY | DREAMSTIME.COM; (TOP RIGHT) NICOLE WOOD; (BOTTOM) MARTIN MARK | DREAMSTIME.COM

Burn Some Calories Dublin Memorial Park located at 8324 Madison Pike is a fantastic place to get in some exercise while you’re in town. The park features a double-court gymnasium equipped for basketball and/or volleyball with an upstairs walking track, 25-yard, eight-lane heated indoor swimming pool, meeting rooms and administrative offices, paved walking trail, nine soccer fields, nine-hole disc golf course, seven tennis courts, community-built playground, outdoor pool with a diving well and children’s pool.

LOCAL FAVORITE

Old Black Bear Brewing Co. 212 Main Street, Madison, AL 35758 256.226.1032; oldblackbear.com

The Leader in North Alabama’s Beer Revolution

Get Some Fresh Air Rainbow Mountain Preserve is located off Stoneway Trail, 1.5mile long Loop Trail follows a generally rocky path along the cliff ridge and east side of Rainbow Mountain. It features beautiful rock formations, such as Balance Rock, excellent views of Madison to the west, fossils, caves and a waterfall. Bradford Creek Greenway provides scenic views of the creek and hardwood forests along the banks. The wetland areas support beavers, raccoons, and many species of fish and birds. Gain access via Palmer Road, across from Palmer Park, with paved parking adjacent to the east entrance of the park. Mill Creek Greenway can be accessed via Mill Road. Indian Creek Greenway is located on the border of Huntsville and Madison and can be accessed from Old Madison Pike, near the intersection of Slaughter Road.

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Old Black Bear Brewery, known locally also as OBB, is leading the craft beer uprising in the Tennessee Valley. Their production is highlighted by two core brews: Cave City Lager (a dark amber lager) and Speckled Trout Wheat (a lemon American wheat beer). Both are celebrated by connoisseurs with discernible palates and novice drinkers alike. At roughly 5% ABV these two session beers have a very high drinkability.

OBB beer is available all across the Tennessee Valley in most restaurants and grocers alike. We recommend trying a pint at one of these local favorites: Connors Steak & Seafood; Mellow Mushroom or Humphrey’s Bar & Grill.

Or visit their new brewery and restaurant in Historic Downtown Madison beginning Fall of 2014.

Scan code to access their mobile profile.

EXCURSIONS 37

EXPL OREMADISON

City of Madison Map Madison Area Hotels 1 BAYMONT INN AND SUITES HUNTSVILLE AIRPORT MADISON 2 BEST WESTERN PLUS MADISON-HUNTSVILLE HOTEL 3 COUNTRY INN & SUITES BY CARLSON, MADISON 4 COUNTRY HEARTH INN

HUNTSVILLE BROWNSFERRY RD

5 ECONO LODGE 6 FEDERAL SQUARE INN & EXTENDED STAY 7 FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON HUNTSVILLE AIRPORT 8 HAMPTON INN MADISON 9 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES HUNTSVILLE WEST - RESEARCH PARK 0 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES HUNTSVILLE AIRPORT q LA QUINTA INN & SUITES HUNTSVILLE AIRPORT MADISON

POWELL RD

w MOTEL 6 HUNTSVILLE - MADISON e QUALITY INN r RADISSON HOTEL HUNTSVILLE AIRPORT t VALUE PLACE

Local Favorites 1 WHISTLE STOP SWEET SHOP 2 VAPE ON! MADISON 3 SAKURA JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE 4 OLD BLACK BEAR BREWING CO.

Scan this code to access the City of Madison’s mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

38 EXCURSIONS

Map locations are approximate. Map not to scale.

For reference use only. Please refer to www.excursions.cityvision.tv for mobile profiles of all sponsors where you may find links to maps with driving directions, view Facebook page feeds, link to websites, phone numbers and more.

HUGHES RD

9 72

Rainbow El.

H

N

HL

C OO

G

Discovery Middle Senior Center

Liberty Middle

Bob Jones H.S.

Public Library

SHELTON RD

OLD MADISON PIKE

Madison City & Police Fire Station #1

Madison El.

Historic Downtown

Palmer Park

T

REE

N ST

MAI

PALMER RD

1

4

HUGHES RD

MILL RD

ROYAL DR

e

IN DUBL

W

MADISON CO

0 q 5 3 w 2 8 1

SULLIVAN ST

LVD

KYSER B

Horizon El.

Schools Stadium & Central Office

6

LV

NB

O DIS

MA

4D

t

565

ZIERDT RD

Mill Creek El.

Dublin Park

BLVD

PLAZA

BROWNSFERRY RD

EAST VIEW DR

HUGHES RD

West Madison El.

WALL TRIANA HWY

Heritage El.

Mill Creek Greenway

LIMESTONE CO

Rainbow Mt. Preserve

GILLESPIE RD

BALCH RD

BURGREEN RD

COUNTY LINE RD

3 DOCK MURPHY DR 2

James Clemens H.S.

Fire Station #2

Columbia El.

SLAUGHTER RD

Fire Station #3

r

565

7 Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 39

No trip to Huntsville is complete without a visit to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center!

Recently Named Alabama’s No. 1 Tourist Attraction

40 EXCURSIONS

a unique and inspiring experience for all who visit. See the authentic Apollo 16 Command Module, which carried three astronauts to the moon. Climb in Mercury and Apollo trainers. See a Skylab solar array and the original Saturn V moon rocket—a National Historic Landmark!

Rocket Park at the USSRC was called “the finest rocket collection in the world”

by U.S. Senator John Glenn. In the park, 27 missiles and rockets show how Army

rocketry initiated the Alabama space program and spun off NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center.

The USSRC is the Official Visitor Information Center for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and also a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate.

The USSRC also boasts the most complete chronology of launch vehicles in the country, including the world’s only fully-

PHOTO:

L

ocated off I-565, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) opened in 1970 to showcase Huntsville’s leadership role in the emerging field of manned spaceflight.

Attracting more than 550,000 visitors in 2012, the center’s nearly 1,500 artifacts from America’s space program and many interactive exhibits and simulators ensure

PHOTO:

Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (daily) rocketcenter.com 1.800.63.SPACE (1.800.637.7223); follow us on Facebook and Twitter @ RocketCenterUSA. Scan the code to access USSRC’s mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv to view their Facebook feed, find them on a map, tap to call, visit their website and more.

stacked Space Transportation System (STS) that includes two solid rocket boosters, genuine space shuttle main engine nozzles and a genuine external tank that is now the only one in existence since the shuttle program ended in 2011. This orbiter, Pathfinder, is on display in Shuttle Park. While the story of more than four decades of space exploration is brilliantly displayed at the USSRC, the organization continues to focus on the future as well. The Power of Zero energy exhibition showcases renewable alternative energy resources and highlights the USSRC’s journey to “net zero energy consumption” in the coming years. This exhibit includes a tour of the Energy Trail on an electric tram, 40-foot solar panels and a 150-foot-tall windmill provided by Greentrail Energy.

Try your hand at piloting aviation f light trainers such as the actual Apache helicopter trainer for pilots and gunners or single-seat jet trainers. Or visit the IMAX® Superdome Theater or 3D Digital Theater —showing the finest in popular films all day. Show times and prices Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

are listed on the website.

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is also home to weeklong Space Camp® and Aviation Challenge® programs. These internationally-acclaimed immersive

such as building and launching rockets or designing robots in the lab, and conduct science experiments on the International Space Station before f lying their missions to space. Up-to-date on today’s space access, Space Camp includes commercial and international space missions to the International Space Station, the moon and Mars.

Camp Programs Available For All Ages! educational programs place trainees in authentic astronaut and pilot training, allowing them to view mathematics and science as something more than just an academic exercise. These subjects become tools to develop future careers as scientists, engineers, teachers and astronauts.

Trainees in Space Camp experience living and working in space using simulators like the 1/6th gravity chair, participate in the hands-on activities

Space Camp’s sister program at the USSRC, Aviation Challenge, is a realistic “Top Gun” military training experience where young people enjoy hands-on learning activities and instruction from military and civilian pilots. Trainees gain an understanding of the basics of aerodynamics, f light physiology and wilderness survival. Aviation trainees spend an exciting and educational week in the great outdoors and in high-performance jet simulators training like military fighter pilots.

Stay an hour or stay a week—there is something at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center for everyone in the family! ❖ EXCURSIONS 41

42 EXCURSIONS

PHOTO:

Iconic Big Spring International Park

Come Play!

From shopping to museums to nature preserves, Huntsville has the perfect agenda for every traveler.

PHOTO:

PHOTOS: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Alabama Constitution Village

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Constitution Village is a unique and unforgettable journey into Alabama’s past. Come see villagers busy with their daily tasks, seemingly unaware that nearly two centuries have come and gone. Hear the whir of the spinning wheel, smell the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread being prepared over an open fire and turn the great wheel lathe in the cabinetmaker’s shop. Hours: (March – Oct) Tues – Sat, 10 am – 4 pm; Closed Jan and Feb. Admission charged. {109 Gates Avenue, 256.564.8100; earlyworks.com}

Big Spring International Park Located in downtown Huntsville, this iconic park serves as the center of the city. Named after an underground spring that John Hunt, Huntsville’s founder, built a cabin next to in 1805, it’s now surrounded by museums, hotels and more.

The park plays host to major area events, like the Panoply Arts Festival and local concerts, and showcases gifts be-

stowed upon the city by other countries, including the “Red Bridge” and 60 cherry trees from Japan. Free Admission. {Located adjacent to downtown Huntsville}

Bridge Street Town Centre Bridge Street Town Centre is the premiere retail and entertainment center in North Alabama. Featuring over 70 upscale shops and restaurants, including favorites like J. Crew, The Apple Store and Anthropology. The center also includes the 14-screen Monaco Pictures Theater, a 10-acre lake with gondola boats and water craft rentals, a beautiful carousel, fountains and lots of open green spaces.

Free admission. {Located at the corner of Old Madison Pike and Research Park Blvd.; 256.327.8400; bridgestreethuntsville.com}

Burritt on the Mountain Also known as the “Jewel on the Mountain,” this living museum is seated atop RoundTop Mountain and features entertainment for all ages.

At the 19th-century farm, EXCURSIONS 43

MAINAT TRAC TIONS

children can pet barnyard animals, while adults can wander the 14-rooms of the unique X-shaped 1930s mansion. Visitors can explore the winding nature trails, visit authentic exhibits and even attend concerts Kids are sure to enjoy the talking tree at EarlyWorks.

44 EXCURSIONS

and plays. Summer hours: (April – Oct) Tues – Sat, 9 am – 5 pm; Sun, 12 pm – 5 pm; Winter hours (Nov – March) Tues – Sat, 10 am – 4 pm; Sun, 12 pm – 4 pm. Admission charged. {3101 Burritt Drive, Huntsville; 256.536.2882; see their ad on page 48}

Ditto Landing For overnight, over the weekend or week-long vacation, Ditto Landing is a camper’s paradise. Nestled in the shaded comfort of densely wooded lots, the campground is cool, peaceful and just a moment’s walk from an abundance of fun-filled activities. It serves as the gateway to Wheeler reservoir, which has more than 60,000 acres of adventurous playground. There are ample facilities for boats of all sizes.

Hours: Mon – Fri, 8 am – 10 pm; Sat – Sun, 6 am – 10 pm. {293 Ditto Landing Road, Huntsville; 256.882.1057}.

Dublin Memorial Park Located in Madison, this park features 66 acres of recreational activities. The Dublin Memorial Park Facility includes an outdoor swimming pool with baby and diving pools. Indoor facilities include a double-court gymnasium equipped for basketball and volleyball, an upstairs walking track, and a 25yard heated indoor swimming pool. Other outdoor activity areas include a walking trail, five soccer fields, a communitybuilt playground and seven tennis courts. Hours: Mon – Fri, 6 am – 9 pm; Sat, 8 am – 8 pm; Sun, 10 am – 6 pm. Free admission. {8324 Old Madison Pike, Madison; 256.772.9300}

EarlyWorks Children’s Museum EarlyWorks was designed for children—go ahead...touch, climb, pull, explore! Hear stories from the Talking Tree,

play a tune on the giant-sized instruments at the Alabama bandstand and try your hand at building in the Kidstruction Zone. Explore a 46-foot Keelboat, trade your wares at the general store and try on clothing from the 1800s in the federal house. Preschoolers will enjoy exploring Biscuit’s Backyard, a touch-and-learn area which includes a garden, grocery store and even karaoke.

Hours: Tues – Sat, 9 am – 4 pm. Admission charged. {404 Madison Street in Huntsville; 256.564.8107; earlyworks. com}

Five Points Historic District Huntsville’s newest Historic Preservation District showcases the evolution of middleclass housing in 20th century Huntsville. The dwellings include a collection of modest one- and two-story vernacular Victorian homes, a variety of bungalows, modest Cape Cods

PHOTOS: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU PHOTO:

Scan the code to access Huntsville Museum of Art’s mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Picture Yourself...

Enjoy the good ole days at Alabama Constitution Village.

and more. {Roughly located between Humes and Wells Avenues and Grayson Street and Andrew Jackson Way}

Harmony Park Safari Don’t miss this exciting drivethru safari experience. Buy two buckets of food and enjoy feeding the animals on this federally licensed nature preserve. Some of the exotic and endangered animals include zebras, antelope, buffalo, camels, ostriches, pythons and even crocodiles! Hours: Mar – Nov, 10 am – sunset.

Admission charged. {431 Clouds Cove Road, Huntsville; 877.726.4625}

PHOTOS: PHOTO: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Harrison Brothers Hardware Better than a museum, Harrison Brothers is a living 19th century landmark sitting serenely in the midst of downtown Huntsville. When you’re

Enjoy a hike or take a bike ride at Monte Sano State Park.

searching for that perfect souvenir to take home, Harrison Brothers is the place to visit.

This shopper’s delight is filled with treasures, like a stack of antique biscuit jars brimming with old-fashioned candies, cotton throws, colorful tins, marbles by the scoop, cast iron cookware and oak rocking chairs. Hours: Open Mon – Fri 9 am – 5 pm; Saturdays 10 am – 4 pm. Free admission. {124 South Side Square in Huntsville; 256.536.3631; harrisonbrothershardware.com}

Historic Huntsville Depot Hear the rattle of the tracks and the engineer’s whistle as you experience life on the rails in 1860. Discover Civil War graffiti and listen as Andy, the robotic ticket agent, tells of Alabama’s railway history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Depot was an active passenger station until 1968. The original depot building now stands as a symbol of Huntsville’s transportation history and city growth.

Hours: March – Dec, Tues – Sat 10 am – 4 pm; Admission charged. {320 Church Street, Huntsville; 256.564.8100}

Huntsville Botanical Garden In this dynamic young garden you’ll find inviting woodland paths, stunning floral collections and exhibits to delight visitors of all ages. Paths meander through the shady woodGo EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

...at the Museum.

• • • • • •

Visit our 14 galleries filled with art by regional and national artists.

Be amazed by the largest public collection of Buccellati silver animals in the U.S. Explore our Stender Family Interactive Education Galleries.

Shop for original art, jewelry, pottery and more in the Museum Store.

Enjoy lunch or dinner at Pane e Vino Pizzeria.

Start (or end!) an artful trip along the Spaces Sculpture Trail.

During your visit, take time to find out why the Huntsville Museum of Art was named the “Best of Bama.”

300 Church Street SW • Downtown Huntsville

256.535.4350

hsvmuseum.org

EXCURSIONS 45

MAINAT TRAC TIONS

Scan the code to access Huntsville Botanical Garden’s mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

prestigious traveling exhibits and the work of nationally and regionally acclaimed artists.

Shop the Museum Store for unique jewelry, pottery and glasswork by local artists, and enjoy Italian fare at the new café, Pane e Vino. Hours: Sun, 1 pm – 5 pm; Closed Mon; Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat, 10 am – 5 pm; Thurs, 10 am – 8

pm. Admission charged. {300 Church Street, S. in Huntsville; 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org}

Lydia Gold Skatepark Opened in March of 2001 and expanded in 2007, the park consists of a 7,500 square foot street section, banks, quarterpipes, boxes, pads,

Huntsville Museum of Art Nestled next to Huntsville’s famous Big Spring Park, the nationally accredited Museum of Art fills its seven galleries with a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, including 46 EXCURSIONS

Sci-Quest is fun and educational for children of all ages

stairs with rails and hubbas.

Helmets are the only pad requirement. No bikes, scooters or other wheeled vehicles are allowed—only skateboards and rollerblades are permitted. Park opens at dawn and closes at dusk; Free admission. {The skatepark is located at 200 Cleveland Street}

Madison County Lake Located 11 miles east of Huntsville, Madison County Lake is a popular local destination for fishing. Facilities include concession stand, boat ramps and equipment rental.

The 105-acre lake is filled with large-mouth bass, channel catfish and rainbow trout. Fishing license required. Hours: Normally open sunrise to sunset as follows: Feb 1 – Nov 23, open 6 days a week, closed on Wednesday; Nov 27 – Jan 31, open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. {2501 County Lake Road, Gurley 256.776.4905}

PHOTOS: PHOTO: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

lands of the Dogwood Trail and the lush fern glade, while native wildflowers quietly populate the Nature Trail. The day lily and herb gardens rival or surpass those of older, more mature botanical gardens.

The demonstration vegetable garden showcases varieties of produce and inspires home gardeners. With new exhibits every season, there’s always something blooming at the gardens! Hours: (May—Sept) Mon – Sat, 9 am – 6 pm; Thurs, 9 am – 8 pm; Sun, noon – 6 pm. (Oct – April) Mon – Sat, 9 am – 5 pm; Sun, noon – 5 pm. {4747 Bob Wallace Avenue in Huntsville; 256.830.4447; hsvbg.org}

Monte Sano State Park Slip into your walking shoes and get ready to explore the beautiful North Alabama outdoors! Spread across more than 2,100 acres, historic Monte Sano State Park sits 1,900 feet above sea level and boasts some of the most beautiful views of the Huntsville area. Spanish for “Mountain of Health,” this park features cabins and camping facilities, as well as 20 miles of hiking trails and 14 miles of biking trails. Hours: 7 am – sundown. Admission charged. {5101 Nolen Road SE, Huntsville 256.534.3757; alapark.com}

North Alabama Railroad Museum

Old Town Historic District The Old Town Historic District features homes in a variety of styles including Federal, Greek Revival, Queen Anne, American Craftsman and even Prairie School with homes dating from the late 1820s through the early 1900s. {Roughly bounded by Dement and Lincoln Streets and Randolph and Walker Avenues}

Old Town Historic District

PHOTOS: PHOTO: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Located just east of Huntsville in the historic Chase community, this museum is a boon for train lovers. On Wednesdays

and Saturdays, take a guided tour of more than 30 train cars, including locomotives, dining cars and sleeper cars.

On Saturdays from March – December, you can even take an hour-long train ride and enjoy the local scenery.

Admission charged. {694 Chase Road in Huntsville; 256.851.6276; northalabamarailroadmuseum.com}

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 47

MAINAT TRAC TIONS Perched high above Huntsville, Burritt on the Mountain offers awe-inspiring views of the surrounding area.

Harrison Brothers Hardware

More than 100 exciting interactive exhibits await the young and young at heart at SciQuest, North Alabama’s premiere hands-on science center.

Get carried away in the Tor-

nado Simulator, examine the mysteries of the human body with Grossology, get into the swing of things with the giant Magnetic Pendulum and much more. Don’t miss a 3D presentation in the state-of-the-art Immersive Reality Theater.

Come Discover the Magic on the Mountain!

Hours: Mon - Fri, 9 am-5 pm; Sat, 10 am-6 pm; Sun, 1 pm-5 pm. Admission charged. {102B Wynn Drive in Huntsville; 256.837.0606; sci-quest.org}

Southern Adventures This family-oriented water and amusement park offers entertainment for all ages.

Attractions include two adventure golf courses, water park, go-kart track, carnival rides, climbing wall and more. Adventure park hours: Fri, 3 pm – 8 pm; Sat, 10 am – 8 pm; Sun, 1 pm – 6 pm; water park hours: Sat, 10 am – 7 pm; Sun, 1 pm – 6 pm. Admission charged. {2150 Leeman Ferry Road, Huntsville; 256.880.6599; southern-adventures.com}

State Black Archives l Dr. Burritt’s Mansion, the

region’s first “green” house, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places

l A living history park that

features 19th century cabins and a barnyard

l Burritt boasts 7 hiking

trails offering scenic views of the museum’s 167 acres

3101 Burritt Drive • Huntsville, Alabama 35801 • 256.536.2882 www.burrittonthemountain.com OPEN: April~October: Tuesday - Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm & Sunday: noon - 5pm November~March: Tuesday - Saturday: 10am - 4pm & Sunday: noon - 4pm

2014 quarter page ad.indd 1 48 EXCURSIONS

8/14/2014 5:03:18 PM

Research Center and Museum

Located in the historic James H. Wilson Building on the campus of Alabama A&M University just outside Huntsville, the center is a repository of African-American history and culture, providing a dialogue between the present and past. Archival collections and featured exhibits span three floors of beautiful gallery areas. Hours: Mon – Fri, 9 am – 4 pm. Admission charged. {Located on the campus of Alabama A&M University in Normal, AL; 256.372.5846}

Twickenham Historic District Alabama’s largest antebellum district features Federal, Italianate, and Classical architecture, including the Weeden House Museum, Alabama’s oldest house open to public. {109 Gates Avenue at Constitution Village in Huntsville}

U.S. Space and Rocket Center The world’s largest space attraction features dozens of interactive exhibits surrounding Apollo, Mercury and Space Shuttle spacecraft. The U. S. Space and Rocket Center is the only place in the world where you can stand under a “full stack”—the Space Shuttle, external tank, and two rocket boosters. Experience three times the force of gravity as you spin in the G-Force Accelerator, feel the powerful G forces of launch aboard the Space Shot and maneuver through space aboard the Mission to Mars. You can also stop for a show in the Spacedome Omnimax theater. Hours: 9 am – 5 pm, seven days a week.

Admission charged. {One Tranquility Base in Huntsville; 1.800.63.SPACE}

Veterans Memorial Museum Take a walk through Ameri-

PHOTO: (LEFT) HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU; (RIGHT) BURRITT ON THE MOUNTAIN

Sci-Quest Hands-on Science Center

Experience the magic of Space at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

Over 100 Interactive Exhibits Daily Floor Shows Open 7 Days a Week

can military history at this museum filled with exhibits, memorabilia and more. The collection includes more than 30 military vehicles, including tanks, helicopters, motorcycles and boats. Dedicated to promoting and disseminating the accomplishments of American military men and women, the museum is popular among veterans and their families.

Hours: Wed - Sat, 10 am-5 pm. Admission charged—cash only. {2060A Airport Road in Huntsville; 256.883.3737; memorialmuseum.org}

certs, Broadway performances, ballets, symphonies and a full range of sporting events. The 10,000-seat Arena, 2,153-seat Concert Hall and 502-seat Playhouse Theatre can also be used as meeting areas for conferences or seminars. The Von Braun Center Arena is host to Huntsville Havoc SPHL Hockey, UAH Chargers Hockey, and Tennessee Valley Vipers Arena 2 Football. {700 Monroe Street, Huntsville; 256.533.1953; vonbrauncenter.com}

Von Braun Center

Alabama’s oldest open-to-thepublic building is best known as the birthplace of 19th century poet and artist Maria Howard Weeden, whose poetry and paintings captured the essence of nineteenth-century Southern culture. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Weeden House is the only home in the Twickenham Historic District open as a museum and is a superb example of Federal architecture with elaborate interior and exterior detailing, including a leaded-glass fanlight highlighting the front door.

Hours: Mon – Fri, 10 am – 3 pm. Admission charged. {300 Gates Avenue, SE, Huntsville; 256.536.7718; weedenhousemuseum.com} ❖

PHOTOS: PHOTO: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

The Von Braun Center is a multi-purpose entertainment venue that hosts major con-

Historic Huntsville Depot

Visit www.sci-quest.org for more information!

1435 Paramount Drive | Huntsville, AL 35806 | 256-837-0606

Weeden House Museum

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 49

Catch classical ballet at several venues around town

NIGHTLIFEENTERTAINMENT

Out on the Town From enriching plays and theater to rockin' live music, there are good times to be had in the Rocket City.

Fantasy Academy, the organization’s dance, music and art school, teaches children and adults each year. Fantasy Playhouse regularly produces three plays a year with an additional annual play, "A Christmas Carol," produced early each December. {3312 Long Avenue SW, Huntsville; 256.539.6829}

Ars Nova School of the Arts This local conservatory for music and performing arts also produces musical theatre, opera and operetta for the local stage, ranging from Verdi’s "Macbeth" to "The Mikado," "My Fair Lady" and "Hansel and Gretel." {7908 Charlotte Drive SW in Huntsville; 256.883.1105}

Flying Monkey Arts Center Located in the historic Lowe Mill, the center hosts a variety of events such as the traditional Cigar Box Guitar festival, the Sex Workers’ Art Show and many presentations of the Film Co-op, in addition to other events. {2211 Seminole Drive SW in Huntsville; 256.489.7000}

Broadway Theatre League This organization brings Broadway’s best productions to Huntsville. "Rent," "Chicago," "Sweeney Todd," "Spamalot," "Chitty Chitty, Bang Bang," and extras, such as, "Happy Days" and "The Rat Pack," have been performed in the Von Braun Center. {700 Monroe Street Southwest in Huntsville; 256.518.6155}

PHOTOS: (OPPOSITE) HUNTSVILLE BALLET COMPANY

Community Ballet Association

Huntsville Community Chorus Association The state’s second-oldest performing arts organization produces both choral concerts and musical theater productions, ranging from "The Pirates of Penzance" to "Guys and Dolls" and "Jesus Christ Superstar."

In addition, HCCA features its Madrigal Singers; “Glitz!” (a show choir); a Chamber Chorale as well as multiple programs for students of all ages, from pre-school through high school students. {3312 Long Avenue SW, Huntsville; 256.533.6606}

Enjoy the musical maestros of the symphony.

The Community Ballet Association operates the Huntsville Ballet Company and Community Ballet School. In addition to the annual "Nutcracker" and Spring Repertory performances, the CBA works with touring companies to bring the best in dance to Huntsville. {800 Regal Drive in Huntsville; 256.539.0961}

Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theatre An all-volunteer organization, Fantasy Playhouse performs for the children of North Alabama both on stage and off.

Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Attend a popular show.

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Plays showcase local talent.

The Huntsville Symphony Orchestra is the oldest continuously operating professional EXCURSIONS 51

NIGHTLIFEENTERTAINMENT

HAPPY HOUR AND BEYOND...

Merrimack Hall

These are some of our top picks for entertainment and libations in the Huntsville and Madison area.

ALLEN’S GRILLE AND GROG

9076 Madison Blvd., Madison 256.772.8514 AMENDMENT XXI

123 North Side Square, Huntsville 256-715-0131 BANDITO SOUTHSIDE

11220 Memorial Pkwy SW #P1, Huntsville 256.489.3232

orchestra in the state of Alabama. The symphony, started in part by members of the German rocket team, offers classical, pops, chamber and young people’s concerts. The Symphony School currently has more than 100 students. {700 Monroe Street in Huntsville; 256.539.4818}

Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," "Into The Woods" and "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street."

In addition, musicals for children and outreach programs complete the season. {520 Green Cove Road SE, Huntsville, 256.337.9071}

Huntsville Youth Orchestra

Merrimack Hall Performing Arts Center

The HYO is a nonprofit corporation whose purpose is to “foster, promote and provide the support necessary for students from North Alabama to experience musical education in an orchestral setting.” The organization has six separate ensembles: The Huntsville Youth Symphony, Sinfonia, Philharmonica, Concert Orchestra, Intermezzo Orchestra and Novice Strings. {6806 Cole Drive SE, Huntsville; 256.880.0622}

After nearly $3 million in renovations to their historic building, this facility now includes a 302-seat performance hall, a 3,000 square foot dance studio, and rehearsal and instructional spaces for musicians.

Past productions and performers include "Menopause The Musical," "Dixie’s Tupperware Party," Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters, Dionne Warwick, Lisa Loeb, Wade Robson, Claire Lynch and the Second City Comedy Troupe. {3320 Triana Blvd. SW, Huntsville; 256.534.6455}

Independent Musical Productions Founded in 1993, this local group presents at least one annual main production such as "Ragtime", "Civil War," "A 52 EXCURSIONS

Renaissance Theatre The Renaissance Theatre features two stages, the Main Stage (upstairs) and the Alpha

Stage (downstairs), each with seating for about 85. Performances range from original works to old standards, and have included the regional premiere of "The Maltese Falcon" (April 2008), "Doubt," "A Parable," "Urinetown," "The Rocky Horror Show," "The Lion in Winter" and "Holy Ghosts," which took “Best Show” at the Southeastern Theatre Conference's Community Theatre Festival. {1214 Meridian Street, Huntsville; 256.536.3434}

Theatre Huntsville This nonprofit, all-volunteer arts organization presents six plays each season in the Von Braun Center Playhouse. It also produces the annual "Shakespeare on the Mountain” at an outdoor venue, such as Burritt on the Mountain. Presentations range from The Foreigner and Noises Off to The Laramie Project and Angels in America and even to the occasional musical (Little Shop of Horrors, Nunsense). Call for a schedule of events. {1701 University Drive, Huntsville; 256.536.0807}. ❖

BAR LOUIE

365 The Bridge Street, Ste 100 Huntsville 256-327-8630 BARREL HOUSE

115 Clinton Ave E, Huntsville 256-533-7200 BENCH WARMER FOOD & SPIRITS

2998 University Drive, Huntsville 256.539.6268 BISHOP’S SOUTHSIDE BAR & GRILL

11505 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville 256.883.2111 BISON’S BAR & GRILL

8020 Madison Blvd., Madison 256.772.4477 BLACK WATER HATTIE’S

10000 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville 256.489.3333 CLUB OZZ

1204 Posey Street NW, Huntsville 256-539-5970 CLUB RUSH

109 Northside Square, Huntsville 256.533.0148 DEE’S DINER & BILLIARDS

2007-C N Memorial Pkwy, Huntsville 256.851.0603

END ZONE

SPORTS PAGE LOUNGE & DELI

1909 University Drive, Huntsville 256.536.2234

9009-M Memorial Pkwy S Huntsville 256.880.9471

FINNEGAN’S PUB

3310 Memorial Pkwy S, Huntsville 256.881.9732 FURNITURE FACTORY BAR & GRILL

619 Meridian Street, Huntsville 256.539.8001 HALF TIME GRILL

8873 Hwy 72 W, Madison 256.430.0266 HOPPER’S BAR & GRILL

5903 University Drive, Huntsville Holiday Inn Research Park 256.830.0600 HUMPHREY’S BAR & GRILL

109 Washington Street, Huntsville 256.704.5555 JEFFERSON STREET PUB

111 Jefferson Street, Huntsville 256.519.2997 LONE GOOSE SALOON

Cleveland Ave. NW, Huntsville 256.715.0705 MASON’S PUB

115 E. Clinton Ave., Huntsville 256.704.5575 PARTNERS

631 Meridian Street N, Huntsville 256.539.0975

PHOTO: MONACO PICTURES USA

RUGGBY’S

4820 University Drive, Huntsville 256.895.0795 SAMMY T’S MUSIC HALL

116 Washington Street, Huntsville 256.539.9974 SCENE LOUNGE

370 The Bridge Street, Huntsville 256.327.8347

(In the Holiday Inn—Research Park) 5903 University Drive 256.830.0600 www.hihuntsville.com/dining.php

SUDS BAR & GRILL

9076 Madison Blvd., Madison 256.772.8514 THE BRICKHOUSE SPORTS CAFE

7 Town Center Drive NW, Huntsville 256.585.1599 THE NOOK

3305 Bob Wallace Avenue SW Huntsville 256.489.0911 THE OFFICE BREAKROOM AND BAR

121 Northside Square Huntsville 256.964.7373 THE STATION PUB AND GRILL

8694 Madison Blvd., Madison 256.325.1333 THE STEM & STEIN

10871 County Line Rd, Madison 256.325.3779 THE VOODOO LOUNGE

110 South Side Square Huntsville 256.539.0335 THIRD BASE GRILL

7904 Memorial Pkwy S Huntsville 256.882.9500 WEST END GRILL

6610 Old Madison Pike #106 Huntsville 256.722.8040 WISH YOU WERE BEER

7407 Hwy 72 W, Madison 256.325.9992 ❖

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Hopper’s Bar & Grill is the place to be every night of the week! Whether you’re looking to catch the game on a big screen, sing a tune in karaoke or you want to dance night away, come see us at Hopper’s—we have all the entertainment you need!

Catching lunch with a new client next week? Join us Tuesday through Friday for Hopper’s lunch buffet! Featuring all the favorites—from fried fish and chicken to pulled pork and meatloaf—Hopper’s offers a variety of comfort food with a side of southern hospitality!

Hopper’s... because it’s more fun to eat in a bar than to drink in a restaurant!

Scan this code to view our mobile profile at excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 53

RETAILTHERAP Y

Retail Therapy PHOTO:

From the most popular national stores to local boutiques, Huntsville has just what you need to get your shopping fix.

54 EXCURSIONS

Bridge Street Town Centre Bridge Street Town Centre is a premier mixed-use lifestyle center featuring more than 70 upscale shops and restaurants, the 210-room Westin Huntsville Hotel, a 14-screen Monaco Pictures and a six-story office tower. The property also features a customer service center, carousel, fountains and lots of green open spaces. Located at the corner of Old Madison Pike and Research Park Boulevard in the heart of Cummings Research Park. 256.327.8400 STORES INCLUDE: Belk (opening late 2014) H&M, DSW, Monaco Pictures, Barnes & Noble, Anthropologie, Ann Taylor Loft, J. Crew, Banana Republic, Apple, White House/Black Market, Mountain Hight Outfitters and Vintage Wine & Cigars (See ad page 3).

Scan the code to access Bridge Street’s mobile profile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv to view their Facebook feed, find them on a map, go to their website and more.

Madison Square Mall Enjoy the convenience of shopping indoors at this traditional shopping mall.

Madison Square offers fashion, fun, and food for everyone with four department stores, over 120 stores and eateries, and 12 theater screens. Madison Square has the names you won’t find anywhere else in town. Located on University Drive at the intersection of Research Park Boulevard and Highway 72. 256.830.5407 STORES INCLUDE: Belk, JC Penney, Dillard’s, American Eagle, Sears, Thomas Kinkade, Belk, Victoria’s Secret

ANTIQUES & BOUTIQUES Spend a Saturday treasure hunting at these Huntsville area favorites.

ALPHA ESTATE & AUCTION SALES

1214 Meridian Street N, Huntsville 256.536.4334

THE ANTIQUE MARKET

11595 S. Memorial Pkwy Huntsville 256.270.9636

ANTIQUES, ETC. APPRAISALS

509 Pratt Avenue NE Huntsville 256.533.7647

ALEXANDER’S JEWELRY

2314 Memorial Parkway S 256.536.3221 BIRCH HILL ANTIQUES

5000 Whitesburg Drive Huntsville 256.881.1225

BLUE BIRD ANTIQUE MALL

9195 Hwy 431 Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763 256.725.4000 FIREHOUSE ANTIQUES & INTERIORS MARKET

10095 Memorial Pkwy SW Huntsville 256.880.9111 GOLDEN GRIFFIN

104 Longwood Drive SE Huntsville 256.535.0882

HARTLEX ANTIQUES & INTERIORS

181 Hughes Road, Ste 18 Madison 256.464.3940 HERITAGE INTERIORS AND ANTIQUES

1618 Hughes Road, Madison 256.895.9791 INTERIORS BY CONSIGN

8506 Whitesburg Drive SE Huntsville 256.880.0909 LENNART’S, INC.

806 Wellman Ave. NE Huntsville 256.536.6789 LIMESTONE FLEA MARKET, INC.

30030 US Highway 72 Madison 256.233.5183

LINCOLN CENTER ANTIQUES

1214 Meridian Street N Huntsville 256.536.3117 MADISON STATION ANTIQUES

110 Main Street, Madison 256.772.4444 MADISON SQUARE ANTIQUES

MARY’S

505 Pratt Ave., Huntsville 256.658.4972 PACKARD’S ANTIQUE CENTER

11110 S. Memorial Pkwy Huntsville 256.881.1678 POLLY’S ANTIQUES

5813 Criner Road SE, Huntsville 256.883.2032 RAILROAD STATION ANTIQUE MALL

315 Jefferson Street N Huntsville 256.533.6550

RIVENBANK AND ROPER

900 Bob Wallace Ave Suite 111, Huntsville 256.564.9800

WHITE LILY ANTIQUES

8402 Whitesburg Drive Huntsville 256.881.7707

WILLOWBROOK SHOPPE

7900 E Bailey Cove Road SE Huntsville 256.270.7181 UNIVERSITY PICKERS

3024 University NW, Huntsville 256.964.6862 ❖

1017 Old Monrovia Road NW Huntsville 256.430.0909

Parkway Place Mall Measuring in at 650,000 square feet, Parkway Place is anchored by Dillard’s and Belk. This indoor retail mall offers shoppers of the Tennessee Valley more than 70 stores, including favorites like Ann Taylor and Hollister Co. The attached movie theater features 18 screens.

Hours: Mon - Sat: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sun: noon - 6 p.m.. Located at the intersection of U.S. 231 (Memorial Parkway) and Drake Avenue. 256.533.0700 STORES INCLUDE: Belk, Dillard’s, Abercrombie & Fitch, Ann Taylor, Pottery Barn, Williams-Sonoma, Brookstone

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 55

Monte Sano State Park

Cathedral Caverns

From awe-inspiring mountain vistas to echoing caverns, the Huntsville area offers a wealth of outdoor escapes.

Major Outdoor Attractions NORTH ALABAMA BIRDING TRAIL Comprised of 50 sites throughout north Alabama, The North Alabama Birding Trail is not a “trail” in the traditional sense, but a series of mostly roadside stops throughout north Alabama selected for their birdwatching characteristics. While all of the sites can be accessed from a vehicle, many of the sites also have traditional walking trails associated with them; and a few sites contain extensive areas that are best explored by boat or canoe. Contact the Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau for more information at 256.551.2230.

56 EXCURSIONS

MONTE SANO STATE PARK Monte Sano, Spanish for “Mountain of Health,” rises more than 1,600 feet above sea level. The mountain has attracted visitors since the mid 1820’s. Currently over 14 miles of hiking/biking trails service our state park and its patrons. The North Plateau Loop and South Plateau Loop trails offer stunning vistas of the Tennessee Valley, with mild trail elevation changes.

For our more serious hikers and bikers we invite you to try our Mountain Mist and McKay Hollow trails. Call 256.534.3757 for more information.

WADE MOUNTAIN PRESERVE Approximately 11 miles of trails on a combination of land trust and private land and

TVA easements. The trails are moderately technical single-track that ring the west and south sides of Wade Mountain. When followed in the correct order, the trails can provide nearly two hours of enjoyment, riding on undulating or descending singletrack (after one long climb). The trail can be ridden in two segments, one 8-mile figure-8 loop with the option of the more difficult 3-mile Land Trust Devil’s Racetrack trail at the beginning or end of the ride.

The Devil’s Racetrack is a unique geological formation that surrounds the crest of Wade Mountain. It is connected to trails that encircle the south and west portions of Wade Mountain. Located on Spragins Hollow Road. For more information call 256.534.LAND. Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

PHOTO: PHOTO:S: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Wide Open Spaces

The Land Trust of Huntsville From verdant woodlands and chilly caverns to rolling mountains—the Huntsville area is home to a wealth of natural wonders. The mission of The Land Trust of Huntsville & North Alabama is to preserve these lands for public use to enhance recreation, education, conservation and prosperity in the North Alabama region. Areas maintained

by The Land Trust include Blevins Gap Preserve, Historic Three Caves (pictured left), Monte Sano Preserve, Rainbow Mountain, South Monte Sano Mountain, Wade Mountain Preserve and the Wildflower Trail.

With miles of hiking trails, caves and woodlands, these areas showcase the natural beauty of North Alabama. Land Trust trails are open one hour before sunrise and close one hour after sunset. For more information, visit www.landtrusthsv.org or call 256.534.5263 for more information.

NATURALWONDERS

Historic Three Caves

Three Caves Tour

CATHEDRAL CAVERNS Located Deep beneath Gunter’s Mountain in northeast Marshall County is a hidden treasure that offers breathtaking sights and chilly temperatures. Cathedral Caverns boasts one of the world’s largest stalagmites, frozen waterfalls, flowstone walls and stalagmite forests. The constant yearround temperature is 60 degrees F (16 C) in the 14-acre underground wonderland, designated as a Registered National Natural Landmark in 1972. Call 256.728.8193 for more information.

THE LAND TRUST OF HUNTSVILLE Showcasing leisurely walks and challenging hikes, wildflower trails and natural springs, The Land Trust preserves beautiful places to experience the great Alabama outdoors. Maps are sold weekdays at 907 Franklin Street, and are available online at landtrust-hsv.org. Call 256.534.5263 for more information.

dren, while the lower course is a bit more adventurous. Call 256.682.1561 for more information.

DITTO LANDING Servicing Wheeler reservoir, which has

Local Walking Trails ALDRIDGE CREEK GREENWAY

CHICKASAW CANOEING Featuring two courses on the Flint River; the upper course is great for small chil58 EXCURSIONS

NORTH ALABAMA CANOE & KAYAK Large variety of canoe and kayak rentals, a variety of river tours for groups of any size, shuttle service to all local waterways, guide service to all local waterways and daily information on water conditions. Call 256.529.0357 for more information.

1100 Mountain Gap Road

ATWOOD LINEAR PARK GREENWAY

7500 Atwood Drive

BIG COVE CREEK GREENWAY

100 Old Hwy 431

GREEN MOUNTAIN NATURE TRAIL

5000 Nature Trail Road HAYS NATURE PRESERVE

7153 Hwy 431 S

INDIAN CREEK GREENWAY

Slaughter Road

Canoeing & Boating

more than 60,000 acres of adventurous playground. There are ample facilities for boats of all sizes. Call 256.882.1057 for more information.

LITTLE COVE ROAD GREENWAY

100 Old Hwy 431

WADE MOUNTAIN PRESERVE

Spragins Hollow Road

FLINT RIVER CANOE RENTALS The Flint River is a scenic class 1, ideal for f loat trips. Reservations are recommended during prime season (April through October). Call 256.858.2280 for more information.

MADISON COUNTY LAKE Madison County Lake is 15 miles northeast of Huntsville. The lake is a 105-acre, public fishing lake offering concessions, picnic facilities, grills, rentals and a bait shop. Fishing license and daily permit required. Madison County Lake is located at 2501 Country Lake Road in Gurley.

For more information call 256.776.4905. ❖ Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

PHOTOS: (OPPOSITE PAGE) JEFF SCHREIER; (THIS PAGE) HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Ditto Landing

Monte Sano State Park Monte Sano, meaning, “Mountain of Health,� offers rental cabins, camping areas, hiking trails, picnic and play areas and bike paths, all with spectacular views. Just east of Huntsville, the park is easily accessible from the city.

Hit the Links

From professional-quality to miniature golf, you’re sure to find your perfect green in one of the area’s many public course offerings 60 EXCURSIONS

O

ne of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors in and around the Huntsville area is to grab your clubs and experience one of the many golf courses this area offers.

Hampton Cove Golf Course, one of nine stops on the famed Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail that spans the length of our state, offers peaceful and awe-inspiring vistas of the valley region in which it is constructed while also presenting golfers with a challenging coarse that may be enjoyed by golfers regardless of skill level.

For more incredible views, venture out to the Colonial Golf Course in nearby Meridianville to enjoy a beautiful coarse that is a described as very forgiving. Also in Meridianville, is the Fox Run Golf Course.

Fox Run Golf Course is perfect for beginning skill level golfers because of its wide fairways and flat terrain.

For our military visitors, The Links at Redstone Arsenal is your best bet. With 27 holes, beautiful landscaping and a short order restaurant at your disposal, The Links at Redstone Arsenal commands your attention. Huntsville Municipal Golf Course and Sunset Landing Golf Course are both perfect options for those who wish to remain close to the city center.

Don’t have time for a full round? Then, check out the practice putting green and driving range at the Huntsville Municipal Golf Course to sharpen your skills.

Need to get your swing in tune for that upcoming company golf tournament? If so, Richland Golf Center specializes in private instruction. They also have a nine hole course and an 18-hole miniature course, all managed by a certified PGA professional.

Whether you’ve got a half a day or a weekend to spend enjoying a round of golf, Huntsville has something just for you.

PHOTO:

Hampton Cove Golf Course, Highlands No. 10; Photo: Michael Clemmer/ golfcoursephotographer.us

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 61

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Hampton Cove Golf Course, Highlands No. 8 Photo: Michael Clemmer/ golfcoursephotographer.us

are tree lined. Water hazards come into play on a couple holes, and there are a few sand bunkers that come into play throughout the course. The greens are fairly large, sloped and generally fast.

Hampton Cove Golf Course PUBLIC 450 Old Hwy 431 S, Owens Cross Road, AL; Phone: 256.551.1818 The Hampton Cove course is the northernmost of the nine stops on Alabama’s famed Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The 54 holes cover 650 acres in a river valley setting surrounded by mountains. A 35,000-square-foot clubhouse contains a spacious golf shop and dining room. A veranda overlooks the courses.

The 18-hole Highland Course and 18-hole River Course have bentgrass greens and feature 26 ponds. The 18-hole Short Course is on a par 3 layout. From U.S. 231, travel U.S. 431 South for eight miles to Hampton Cove.

Huntsville Municipal Golf Course PUBLIC

MILITARY 4140 Goss Road, Redstone Arsenal, AL Phone: 256.883.7977 This beautifully landscaped facility offers 27 challenging and scenic holes, a modern club house and pro shop and a short-order restaurant for your convenience. Also provided is an excellent driving range for putting, chipping and sand play.

Colonial Golf Course

bama hill country and is known for its perpetually well-maintained grounds. Although the fairways are quite narrow, a lack of significant rough and out-of-bounds allows the course to play very forgiving. The greens are amply-sized and feature varying degrees of undulation, and the open layout makes for a very enjoyable round of golf. Colonial Golf Course is located eight miles north of Huntsville on U.S. 231 at Meridianville.

Fox Run Golf Course PUBLIC

PUBLIC 400 Colonial Drive, Meridianville, AL Phone: 256.828.0431 This course is situated on gently-rolling Ala-

62 EXCURSIONS

870 McCollum Road, Meridianville, AL Phone: 256.828.7564 This course was built on predominantly flat terrain. The fairways are fairly wide and a few

Richland Golf Center PUBLIC 10028 Memorial Pkwy NW, Huntsville, AL richlandgolf.com Phone: 256.858.6622 Whether your goal is to learn the game, lower your handicap, or win a club championship, Richland Golf Center in Huntsville, is the right place for you. Richland provides instructional programs that combine time-proven techniques with some of today’s innovative training technology. PGA Member and General Manager Charlie Richardson has brought together an excellent team of professionals and instructors to help you reach your goals.

PHOTO:

The Links at Redstone Arsenal

2151 Airport Road, Huntsville, AL Phone: 256.880.1151 This 18-hole public facility covers 6,500 yards.

The course has Bermuda tees, fairways with bentgrass greens, grass and sand bunkers, mounds and water hazards. A practice putting green, a driving range and a sandwich shop is available. Just off South Parkway (U.S. 231) at Airport Road.

G OLFCOURSES

Take advantage of their 30-acre driving range, beautiful 9-hole golf course, immaculate practice greens, 18-hole miniature golf course, and pro shop—all open to the public. Golf is a game to be enjoyed for a lifetime, and nothing makes golf more enjoyable than playing your best. Let Richland Golf Center help you get more enjoyment out of golf.

Stoney Mountain Golf Course

Hampton Cove Golf Course, Highlands No. 9 Photo: Michael Clemmer/ golfcoursephotographer.us

There’s a lake that comes into play on one hole, and the wind can be a factor. The No. 5 hole is par 4 and the No. 8 hole is par 3.

course rating is 67.6 and it has a slope rating of 118 on Bermuda grass. Stoney Mountain golf course opened in 1977.

Twin Lakes Golf Course

Sunset Landing Golf Club PUBLIC

PUBLIC 5200 Georgia Mountain Road, Guntersville Phone 256.582.2598 The 18-hole Stoney Mountain course at the Stoney Mountain Golf Course facility in Guntersville, Alabama features 5,931 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

Huntsville International Airport, 346 James Record Road, Huntsville Phone: 256.464.5050 This par-72 course offers 6,803 yards of wide open, natural grass fairways and wellmaintained bentgrass greens. The design of this course is somewhat flat and easy to walk.

PUBLIC 211 Golfview Drive NE, Arab Phone: 800.213.3938 The 18-hole Twin Lakes course at the Twin Lakes Golf Course facility in Arab, features 6,612 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is 70.9 and it has a slope rating of 130. Amenities include putting green, chipping area, indoor practice facility, rental clubs, pull carts and food and beverages. Designed by Harry Weaver, the Twin Lakes golf course opened in 1963. ❖

EXCURSIONS 63

Scan code to access mobile profile

Sophisticated Sizzle Favorite Huntsville Restaurant ~ quoted from Trip Advisor MOUTHWATERING DISHES, seasonal ingredients and warm hospitality come together seamlessly for Sunday brunch, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.

Located in the heart of the beautiful Village of Providence, Grille 29 sets the standard for fine dining in a casual atmosphere in Huntsville through its sophisticated sizzle. Grille 29 is listed as the No. 1 Restaurant in Huntsville on Trip Advisor.

In addition to menu favorites such as Jumbo Scallops Stuffed with Crabmeat, the Filet 29 and the culinary team’s artfully designed nightly features, the Grouper Oscar has become a signature entrée and is on the list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die.” Pan-seared and topped with jumbo lump crabmeat, asparagus and hollandaise, this dish is worthy of all the raves it receives.

Being in the Rocket City, Grille 29 embraced the space experience with the starry sky display over the bar. Over 1.3 miles of 64 EXCURSIONS

fiber optic lighting were used to make the constellations in the northern hemisphere and guests can catch a glimpse of a shooting star or comet over head as they enjoy their dinner. Grille 29 also boasts the largest saltwater aquarium in Northern Alabama, featuring a shark, moray eels and exotic sea life—you are sure to find relaxation somewhere between the sea and stars at the bar.

Your culinary journey will not be complete unless you experience dessert at Grille 29! Chocolate Peanut Butter Truffle, Tiramisu Tower and Trio of Crème Brulee are just a sampling of delectable desserts that you must try.

Make Grille 29 your restaurant for meeting friends after work, celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a business luncheon.

Your table is ready and waiting! ❖ 445 Providence Main Street NW, 256.489.9470; grille29.com Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at excursions.cityvision.tv

Experience the best of Huntsville in a comfortable, yet elegant atmosphere located in the beautiful Village of Providence.

Our culinary team offers award-winning entrée selections as well as daily features to enhance your experience at Grille 29.

Our Grouper Oscar has been featured in the 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die and our Jumbo Scallops stuffed with Lump Crab, Filet “29”, and Sesame Seared Tuna Mignon are crowd favorites! You will begin your dinner journey on a high note with our Firecracker Shrimp or Gorgonzola Fondue. But save room for dessert! The Grille 29 hand-made desserts are not to be missed — our guest favorites include the Raspberry Truffle Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter Truffle, and Chocolate Soufflé.

For the past 6 years, Grille 29 has been voted Best Restaurant in the Taste of Huntsville.

Come in for Lunch or Dinner, visit our lounge, or ask about our Banquet Room for meetings. Grille 29 is the place to dine in Huntsville for a memorable and enjoyable taste adventure!

PHOTO:

445 Providence Main St. Village of Providence Huntsville

256-489-9470 | grille29.com Facebook.com/Grille29

@Grille29 EXCURSIONS 65

66 EXCURSIONS

Come

Hungry

PHOTO:

From upscale bistros to down-home hangouts, the Huntsville and Madison areas are teeming with culinary opportunities.

From Ruth's Chris Steak House and Grille 29 to Rosie's Cantina and Phuket, top chefs are dishing out some fantastic food. These award-winning chefs have drawn from their culinary expertise in California, Thailand, New York City and across the globe to offer Huntsville diners menus that are fresh, f lavor-forward and always evolving. But dressing up for dinner isn’t your only option. Huntsville is home to many restaurants where it’s cool to be casual. From famous local pizzerias like Big Ed’s and Sam & Greg’s to great hangouts like Humphrey’s Bar & Grill, Below the Radar and Gibson’s Barbecue, there are plenty of places to relax and still have a fantastic meal. Most dining options at Bridge Street Town Centre are casual, as well.

If you’re in the mood for some international cuisine, you’re in luck. Phuket leads the pack on Asian cuisine, followed by a host of Japanese, Chinese and Indian restaurants. If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean, the Huntsville/Madison area has you covered. Sakura Japanese Steak House in Madison is local favorite with amazing sushi dishes. Mezza Luna offers inspired Italian favorites, and you can grab some awesome Greek food at Papou’s downtown. At first glance you might not expect to get great German food in the Rocket City, but think again.

When German rocket scientists relocated to Huntsville in the 1950s to help build the U.S. space program, they brought their culinary customs with them. Stop by Ol’ Heidelburg or Café Berlin for some real authentic German cuisine, like schnitzel, specialty sandwiches and more sausages and sauerkraut than you can shake a stick at.

If you’re looking for a familiar restaurant, Huntsville is home to all of your chain favorites. From P.F. Chang’s, Bonefish, The Melting Pot and Cantina Laredo to Landry’s, and Macaroni Grill, you’re sure to find a comforting favorite while you’re in town. If you’re looking for restaurants that are tried and true, stick to our list. But while you’re in town, don’t be afraid to take some culinary risks. Huntsville and Madison are full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. And while you’re visiting some of Huntsville’s finest restaurants, try stepping out of your comfort zone and sampling a dish you’ve never had before. With such highcaliber chefs on the scene, you’re sure to leave the Rocket City with a new appreciation for fine southern cuisine.

68 EXCURSIONS

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 800 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801 Inside The Embassy Suites Hotel 256.539.3930, ruthschris.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House is situated in the lobby of the Embassy Suites Hotel, conveniently located near Big Spring Park and The Von Braun Center in beautiful downtown Huntsville. Deep rich reds with accents of teal and copper predominate the steak house dining room, while the dense foliage of the open-atrium hotel envelops our restaurant in an air of casual elegance.

Private dining rooms offer a variety of event options for 10 to 300 guests. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, an important business luncheon, a social event or an all-day meeting, Ruth’s Chris of Huntsville can accommodate your needs.

2014 OpenTable Diner’s Choice Winner HOURS OF OPERATION: Lunch: Monday-Sunday 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Dinner: Monday-Thursday 3 p.m.-10 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 3 p.m.-11 p.m.

Scan code to access mobile profile at excursions.cityvision.tv

A Few Items From Our Menu Sizzlin’ Blue Crab Cakes: Two jumbo lump crab cakes with sizzling lemon butter New York Strip: This USDA Prime cut has a full-bodied texture that is slightly firmer than a rib eye Creamed Spinach: A Ruth’s favorite, chopped spinach in a New Orleans cream sauce Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad: A Ruth’s Chris original, tossed with lemon basil dressing and topped with crispy onions (pictured above)

PHOTO: PAGES 66-67 RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

W

hether you’re wandering through downtown, window shopping at Bridge Street or simply exploring the city, you’re never far away from an unforgettable dining experience. No matter if you’re in the mood for casual and fun or glitzy and glamorous, the Rocket City has a treat for your tastebuds. A surprising number of globetrotting chefs have taken note of Huntsville’s metropolitan vibe.

Phuket 475 Providence Main Street, Huntsville, AL 35806 256.489.1612 PhuketExperience.com

The Premiere Thai Restaurant in Huntsville Serving the best Thai cuisine in town, Phuket has made a name for itself with its tremendous menu that ranges from sushi, curry entrees, rice dishes and noodle bowls to pad Thai, satays, steaks, seafood and more. Stop by today and indulge in an affordable and irresistible lunch or dinner at Phuket and taste the difference for yourself!

HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday-Thursday 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

6196 University Drive NW, Huntsville, AL 256.922.1001 7540 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville, AL 256.382.3232 rosiesmexicancantina.com

Named the “Best Mexican Restaurant in Huntsville”, Rosie’s Cantina is a fun and festive atmosphere for casual family dining. Serving honest, handmade Tex Mex favorites as well as innovative house specialties in an atmosphere filled with unique works of art, antiques from Old Mexico and upbeat music. Enjoy lunch or dinner indoors and out year round or relax fountain side beneath beautiful Mexican architecture.

A full service bar features Rosie’s famous Margarita Menu, an extensive collection of Mexican beers, tequilas, select wines and martinis. Our Mambo Taxi is legendary. Locally owned and operated since 1995, Rosie’s is a Huntsville tradition.

Join us and experience “Flavors Fantasticos!”

Lunch Specials daily until 4 p.m.

Dinner Specials Friday and Saturday HOURS OF OPERATION:

Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Scan code to access mobile profile at excursions.cityvision.tv

Scan code to access mobile profile at excursions.cityvisions.tv

A Few Items From Our Menu

A Few Items From Our Menu

Appetizers: Phuket Lettuce Wrap, Fiery Grilled Beef Salad Sushi: Snow Crab Roll, Rainbow Roll Entrees: Pad Thai Seafood, Grilled Rib Eye, Salmon Green Curry Gluten-Free Menu: Satay Chicken, Thai BBQ Chicken, Jungle Chicken Curry PHOTO:

Rosie’s Mexican Cantina

Vegetarian Menu: Tofu Lettuce Wraps, Spicy Tofu Lemon Grass Salad, Drunken Noodle Tofu

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at excursions.cityvision.tv

Appetizers Barbeque Chicken Nachos Shrimp Quesadillas Deluxe Queso w/spicy beef

Specials of the House Famoso Shrimp Burrito Mexican Lasagna Texas Style Enchiladas Sizzling Fajitas

Desserts Rosie’s Fried Ice Cream Tres Leches Classic Mexican Flan

Drinks Famous Mambo Taxi Signature Margaritas “Skinny” Martinis

EXCURSIONS 69

DINING OUT

Chef Tukky Phornroekngam PHUKET If you’re in the mood for absolutely authentic Thai dishes, Phuket will not disappoint. Head Chef Tukky Phornroekngam is a masterful Thai Cuisine Chef, certified by no less than the government of Thailand. How’s that for authentic?

Far from her homeland, Chef Tukky has made a name for herself in the states, having been voted one of the Best Chefs in the Tennessee Valley in 2009. She says it’s her familiarity and artistry with exotic ingredients that make her such a successful chef.

“I love to use kaffir lime leaves, lemon grass, Thai basil leaves and any herbs that are essential to Thai cuisine,” Chef Tukky says.

Though it’s hard to nail down a favorite, Tukky says it’s a toss-up between what she would order for dinner at Phuket. “Our grilled ribeyes are delicious, and any of the curry dishes are great,” says Chef Tukky, who has one more piece of advice for diners. “I love having a Lychee Martini or a Thai Tea Martini with my meal,” she says. “You’ll be surprised how well they compliment the Thai dishes.”

Sergio Artiga ROSIE’S MEXICAN CANTINA

Because of his love for simple, fresh ingredients, Chef Sergio considers Rosie’s combination fajitas one of his favorites. “Rosie’s fajitas are made from the finest ingredients, incredibly fresh,” Chef Sergio says. “We cut our own meats every morning, produce arrives daily and our tortillas are handmade and prepared to order. The flavors are extraordinary!”

Never choosing to eat alone, Artiga enjoys dining with friends and family. “Meal time is the time for a cocktail, relaxing with great company and anticipating wonderful food,” says Chef Sergio. “Buen provencho!”

Rosie’s Mexican Cantina serves honest handmade Tex Mex cuisine, prepared from scratch each day.

Guests can experience traditional favorites such as chili rellenos, handmade tamales and Texas-style enchiladas along with house specialties unique to Rosie’s.

70 EXCURSIONS

PHOTO: (TOP) BRENT BOYD

Sergio Artiga’s love for food began in his mother’s kitchen in El Salvador. There he learned the simplicity of letting “food be food.” Freshness and proper preparation allow the flavor of the simplest ingredients to be the star of each dish.

Bone-In Cowboy Rib Eye at Grille 29

Taste the Flavors of Huntsville & Madison From formal to casual, you're sure to find something that hits the spot

IN HUNTSVILLE

For a complete list of restaurants in Downtown Huntsville, see page 31.

FUN & CASUAL BEAUREGARD’S

•511 Jordan Lane 256.837.2422 •1426 Paramount Drive 256.489.5380 •975 Airport Road 256.585.3635 BIG ED’S PIZZERIA

903 Memorial Pkwy N 256.489.3374

DRAKE'S

TERRANOVA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

MEZZA LUNA

4800 Whitesburg Drive, Ste. 14 256.517.8588

1420 Paramount Drive, Ste. A 256.489.8883

2724 Carl T JOnes Drive SE 256.650.2514

GIBSON’S BARBECUE

FINE DINING

PHUKET

•3319 Memorial Pkwy S 256.881.4851 •8412 Whitesburg Drive 256.882.0841 LIME FRESH MEXICAN GRILL

335 The Bridge Street, Ste. 127 256.327.8726 OL HEIDELBERG RESTAURANT

6125 University Drive NW 256.922.0556 ROSIE’S MEXICAN CANTINA

4925 University Drive NW, 256.721.1495

See their ad page 69.

•6196 University Drive 256.922.1001 •7540-A Memorial Pkwy S 256.382.3232

BURRITO CALIFORNIA

SCENE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

BUMPERS BAR AND GRILL

518 Jordan Lane 256.288.0222

370 The Bridge Street 256.327.8347

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

BRIX

964 Airport Road SW 256.881.3396

Great for lunch, dinner, or happy hour. See our ad page 69.

475 Providence Main Street 256.489.1612 RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

D&L BISTRO

Award-winning cuisine with firstclass service. Open for lunch and dinner. See our ad page 68.

475 Providence Main Street 256.489.1612

7500 Memorial Pkwy. SW, Ste. 124 256.881.7244

LUNCH SPOTS

CONNORS STEAK & SEAFOOD

345 The Bridge Street NW 256.327.8425

GRILLE 29

3-time winner of Taste of Huntsville's coveted 1st Prize Repeatedly recognized as one of Huntsville’s best. Read more on page 64.

445 Providence Main Street 256.489.9470

ANAHEIM CHILI

2030 Cecil Ashburn Drive SE 256.489.5531 CHEF WILL THE PALATE

2211 Seminole Drive SW 256.617.6052

EXCURSIONS 71

DINING OUT

Great for lunch—especially at the Huntsville Botanical Garden location.

•4747 Bob Wallace Ave. 256.830.4447 •600 O’Shaugnessy Ave. 256.512.0697 THE EAVES RESTURANT

501 Church Street NW 256.489.1752 LYN’S GRACIOUS GOODNESS

2306 Whitesburg Drive S 256.533.2607 MULLINS DRIVE IN

607 Andrew Jackson Way 256.539.2826 STANILEO'S SUB VILLA

605 Jordan Lane 256.837.7220 TIM'S CAJUN KITCHEN

114 Jordan Lane NW 256.533.7589 VIET HUONG VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

930 Old Monrovia Road 256.890.0104

72 EXCURSIONS

Breakfast and Coffee Houses

MASON DIXON BAKERY

HOOTER’S

9009 Memorial Pkwy SW 256.213.7545

4749 University Drive 256.722.0166

ANGEL ISLAND COFFEE

OLD TOWNE COFFEE SHOPPE

JASON’S DELI

511 Pratt Ave. 256.539.5399

4800 Whitesburg Drive 256.833.7300

Familiar Favorites

LANDRY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE

7538 South Memorial Pkwy.

256.319.3424 ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ

2722-D Carl Jones Drive 256.883.2915 BLUE PLATE CAFÉ

3210 Governor’s Drive 256.533.8808 CAFÉ 153

355 The Bridge Street, Ste. 121 256.251.5190 CAFE BABA CREPERIE & PATISSERIE

300 Chruch Street 256.288.0055 DOWNTOWN GROUNDS COFFEE

109 Gates Ave. 256.535.6564 EDITH ANN’S TASTE OF HOME

11243 Memorial Pkwy. SW 256.489.0881 JAMO’S CAFÉ

413 Jordan Lane 256.837.7880

ATLANTA BREAD COMPANY

6275 University Drive 256.922.2253 BONEFISH GRILL

4800 Whitesburg Drive 256.883.0643 CANTINA LAREDO

300 The Bridge Street 256.327.8580 CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL

2801 Memorial Pkwy. S 256.288.1333 DREAMLAND BBQ

3855 University Drive 256.539.7427 GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE

8780 Madison Ave. 256.461.0004

5101 Governor’s House Drive 256.864.0000 LONE STAR STEAKHOUSE & SALOON

5901 University Drive 256.837.0010 THE MELTING POT

340 The Bridge Street, Ste. 202 256.327.8888 MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL

975-C Airport Road 256.880.0113 NOTHING BUT NOODLES

4800 Whitesburg Drive 256.382.2999 P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO

305 The Bridge Street 256.327.8320 ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL

5901-G University Drive NW 256.722.4770

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

CLEMENTINE’S

Jesse Peplow EXECUTIVE CHEF, RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

With more than 30 years of culinary experience and a degree in Hotel Technology, Ruth’s Chris Steak House executive chef Jesse Peplow has dedicated himself as a member of the American Culinary Federation since completing his apprenticeship in 1987. Growing up, Peplow worked in his cousin’s restaurant where his motivation for cooking was first ignited. As the leader of the “heart of the house,” the kitchen, Peplow is most proud when he is passing along his knowledge to a new generation of culinarians and watching them succeed.

For Peplow, the ideal dinner at Ruth’s Chris includes the ahi tuna with its spirited mustard-ginger sauce followed by the 14-ingredient Ruth’s chopped salad and a bone-in cowboy ribeye finished with a blue cheese crust. Topping it all off, he indulges in the simple and elegant chocolate sin cake.

Though Ruth’s Chris is famous for its sizzling steaks, Peplow’s creativity shines through his chef’s specials. Currently, he enjoys experimenting with cilantro, intrigued by the herb’s versatility in a variety of cuisines.

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 73

DINING OUT RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

Rosie's Mexican Cantina

800 Monroe Street 256.539.3930

BAR & GRILL BISHOP'S WESTSIDE PUB & GRILL

12110 County Line Road, Ste. A 256.325.1069

TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE

4855 Whitesburg Drive 256.881.9155

BISON'S BAR & GRILL

8020 Madison Blvd.

256.772.4477

IN MADISON

CRICKET'S

3810 Sullivan Street 256.464.3777

FUN & CASUAL

DAWG HOUSE PUB

8694 Madison Blvd., Ste. R 256.772.4449

BANDITO BURRITO

208 Main Street 256.461.8999

THE STATION PUB & GRILL

8694 Madison Blvd., Ste. J 256.325.1333

CASA BLANCA

•140 Browns Ferry Road 256.464.6044 •7830 Hwy 72 W, Ste. 230 256.864.0360

SWEETS BRUSTER'S REAL ICE CREAM

GUADALAJARA MEXICAN

12143 County Line Road 256.890.8048

8572 Madison Blvd.

256.774.1401

DONUT PALACE

PIE IN THE SKY

7985 Hwy 72 W, Ste. 4 256.325.4009

8141 Hwy 72 W 256.722.2112

GIGI'S CUPCAKES

SABOR LATINO

1591 Hughes Road, Ste. A 256.325.0448

8760 Madison Blvd.

256.200.6780

KALEIDOSCOOPS

SAFFRON INDIAN RESTAURANT

300 Hughes Road, Ste. A 256.461.1317

12090 County Line Road, Ste. J (256) 233.1085

WHISTLE STOP SWEET SHOP

SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

Located in Historic Downtown Madison. Specializing in multiple flavors of fudge and authentic Italian gelato. See our ad on page 104 Main Street 256.325.8838

Known for lunch and dinners with show-quality flair. Fresh Sushi specials every Tuesday. See ad on page 30.

12090 County Line Road 256.233.6955 SAM & GREG'S PIZZARIA

364 Hughes Road 256.772.9888 SMASHBURGER

8135 Hwy 72 W, Ste. C 256.726.0031 SMOKEY'S BBQ

8071 Hwy 72 W 256.721.0300

LUNCH SPOTS APPLE LANE FARMS

8580 Madison Blvd., Ste. H 256.774.8181 BRUEGGER'S BAGEL BAKERY

347-a Hughes Road 256.258.0880 LITTLE LIBBY'S CATFISH

THE STEM & STEIN

10871 County Line Road 256.325.3779

74 EXCURSIONS

234 Lime Quarry Road 256.772.0191

MAIN STREET CAFÉ

ZEN BERI

101 Main Street 256.461.8096

8141 Hwy 72 W, Ste. E 256.830.0707

OLD GREENBRIAR RESTAURANT

Breakfast and Coffee Houses

27028 Old Hwy 20 256.351.1800 SADY’S BISTRO

CAFE 153

14 Main Street 256.325.1745

300 Hughes Road, Ste. K 256.772.3644

THOMAS PIT BBQ

GROUNDED COFFEE

7929 Hwy 72 W 256.837.4900

12120 County Line Road, Ste. C 256.258.9637 ❖

Visit Our Taprooms Local breweries are energizing the craft beer industry with their own creative twists on brewing and offer up close and personal experiences in their taprooms.

BLUE PANTS BREWERY

SALTY NUT BREWERY

500 Lanier Road, Madison bluepantsbrew.com Taproom hours: 3-10 p.m. MonWed; 3 p.m.-midnight Thu-Sat

4411 Evangel Circle, Huntsville 256.425.5204 saltynutbrewery.com Taproom hours: 5-9 p.m. Thu–Fri & 12-7 p.m. Sat

OLD BLACK BEAR BREWING CO.

PHOTO: JOSHUA RAINEY | DREAMSTIME.COM

BELOW THE RADAR BREWHOUSE 220 Holmes Avenue NE 256.469.6617 brtbrew.com Huntsville's first brew pub. Extensive menu prepared fresh daily by their in-house chef. Check out their brews and other local brews. Located in downtown Huntsville in the Quigley Art & Entertainment District. See their ad on page xx. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon-Thu; 11 a.m.-12 a.m. FriSat; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun

THE BREW STOOGES 109 Maple Avenue, Huntsville 256.503.2233 Find them on Facebook You'll find a variety of craft beers with an emphasize on malty flavors and exploration of unorthodox flavor combinations. See their ad on page XX. Taproom hours: 5-9 p.m. Thu-Sat

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

212 Main Street, Madison 256.226.1032 oldblackbear.com Opening late 2014 in Madison.

Taproom hours not available at press time. See their website of Facebook for latest info.

STRAIGHT TO ALE 3200 Leeman Ferry Road Huntsville www.straighttoale.com Taproom hours: open 7 days a week, 3-10 p.m.

YELLOWHAMMER BREWING ROCKET REPUBLIC 289 Production Ave, Madison rocketrepublicbrewing.com Opening late 2014 in Madison.

Taproom hours not available at press time. See their website of Facebook for latest info.

2406 Clinton Ave W Huntsville 256.975.5950 yellowhammerbrewery.com Taproom hours: 4-9 p.m. Fri; 2-10 p.m. Sat

EXCURSIONS 75

Chad Emerson pictured with Macy Chapman who serves as the Director of Communications & Branding for Downtown Huntsville, Inc. Find Dowtown Huntsville, Inc. on Facebook and at downtownhuntsville.org.

MOVERSSHAKERS

Downtown Determined Chad Emerson is a Newcomer to Huntsville, but His Great Ideas are Already Taking Root B Y J E N N Y A DA M S “THERE’S NO SUCH thing as a normal day,” says Chad Emerson. “The best part of my job is that I get to meet an incredibly wide variety of people–from designers to developers to citizen activists–and I get exposed to their great ideas for the city.”

Chad Emerson is the first CEO of Downtown Huntsville, Inc., and in his career, he’s helped develop urban re-development strategies for more than 30 cities.

He moved to Huntsville just a year ago from Montgomery, and he’s hitting the ground running in terms of furthering a flourishing downtown.

“I’d say this city is really starting to realize its incredible potential in the downtown area,” Emerson says. In the next few years, he’s anticipating $50 million allocated for mixed development use in downtown.

“What I do for a city is to identify what once made a downtown successful, why it lost the success and how we can rediscover it,” he says. “We do this either through new programs or re-implementing former ones.

Originally, downtowns were walkable, because most people didn’t have cars. As cars became cheaper, suburbs sprouted up and people commuted into downtown. All across the South and the Midwest, these incredibly beautiful old buildings and their sidewalk storefronts were left empty. This next generation now is not prioritizing ownership of a car and again wants that Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SHAMWELL walkability and that cool, downtown area.”

Emerson first became enamored with downtown revitalization when he was in law school in Knoxville, Tenn., and noticed the empty, wonderful old buildings along Gay Street. Excited by the idea of bringing the skeletons of stunning architecture back to something vibrant, he moved to Montgomery and began working in urban revitalization. There, he was lauded for his successful campaigns, where he and his teams focused on the riverfront revitalization, as well as Dexter Avenue and the state capitol. The building of the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa, as well as the Montgomery Biscuits’ ballpark both helped pump large-capital lifeblood into the downtown. Emerson’s approach is to bring both large contenders and smaller, independent businesses to each downtown project he approaches. Most importantly, it’s about what appeals to the people in that city.

“I would say after Huntsville, my favorite three city downtowns are Cincinnati, Knoxville and Charleston, SC.,” he says.

“In Huntsville, I really love Big Spring Park. It’s just incredible. It winds through downtown from the courthouse square to the convention center.”

Big Spring Park is the site for the Panoply Arts Festival that occurs each April, drawing in crowds of 100,000 for a massive celebration of the arts. Springtime also

heralds the Whistlestop Weekend, which is hosted at the historic depot in May. The event combines massive names in music and the best-of-the-best in Alabama BBQ. People flock to Huntsville from all over the state, for this weekend of championship cook offs and great concerts.

In the day-to-day, there are great, new opportunities to eat and shop in Huntsville, like the Clinton Row Project, which launched this past spring. Located at the Downtown Storage building on the corner of Clinton Avenue and Jefferson Street, there are a handful of artisans, like acclaimed, local cheese purveyor, Belle Chevre. The company has both a tasting room and a shop here.

Then you have the burgeoning Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment district, which has more than 100 independent retailers, restaurants, live music venues and artisan crafts. It is the largest center for the arts in the Southeast.

“Every day, there are more and more businesses coming into downtown Huntsville,” Emerson concludes. “People are noticeably excited to experience and make use of this part of the city again, and it’s not just locals but tourists being drawn in too.”

As for the locals and the tourists, everyone should be excited to have Emerson as a local. Good things are bound to be bountiful in this vibrant, north Alabama city from his hard work and bright ideas. ❖ EXCURSIONS 77

Huntsville Museum of Art

NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge (formerly known as Moonbuggy Race)

Huntsville Botanical Garden

A Full Calendar of Fun JANUARY

MARCH

APRIL

Beaks and Barks

Huntsville Blooms

Art with LEGO® Bricks

HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

This winter it’s all about beaks and barks at the Garden! Cool winter days during January and February are perfect for getting out of the house and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine in the Garden.

256.830.4447; hsvbg.org

The Garden’s Spring Festival of Flowers has blossomed into a celebration of all things spring and evolved into Huntsville Blooms.256.830.4447; hsvbg.org

Nature Connects and Certified LEGO® artist, Sean Kenney, presents their amazing sculptures built with over 500,000 LEGO® Bricks totaling 27 sculptures in 14 displays.256.830.4447; hsvbg.org

FEBRUARY

Encounters: Dori DeCamillis HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

The latest exhibition in this long-standing showcase for outstanding regional contemporary art focuses on a recent series of imaginary self-portraits by Birmingham painter Dori DeCamillis. Organized by HMA. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

Rembrandt, Rubens, Gainsborough and the Golden Age of Painting in Europe HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

This exhibition features more than 70 major works by master painters from the renowned collection of The Speed Art Museum in Louisville, Kentucky. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org 78 EXCURSIONS

John James Audubon: The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America from the Collection of Mr. & Mrs. William H. Told, Jr. HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

This exhibition presents approximately 25 original Audubon prints, lent from a major private collector of the artist’s work.

256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

YAM 2015: Exhibition for Youth Art Month HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

YAM is an annual gathering of exuberant artwork from North Alabama K-12 students, organized in observance of March’s Youth Art Month. YAM emphasizes the value of art education for all children and encourages public support for quality school art programs. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge (Moonbuggy Race) U.S.SPACE & ROCKET CENTER

NASA is introducing a new engineering design challenge that will focus on NASA’s current plans to explore planets, moons, asteroids and comets -- all members of the solar system family. The new NASA Rover Challenge (formerly NASA Great Moonbuggy Race) is held in April. See nasa.gov/ roverchallenge for exact dates and details.

Spring Plant Sale HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Make your plans now to attend the very popular Spring Plant Sale at the Huntsville Botanical Garden. Master Gardeners and our own Harvey Cotten will be available to provide guidance in your selections and answer your questions.256.830.4447; hsvbg.org

PHOTO: PHOTOS: (LEFT) HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN (RIGHT) HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU;

No matter what the season, there’s always something exciting going on in the Huntsville and Madison areas.

EVENTS CALENDAR MAY

Butterfly House HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

The Purdy Butterfly House is a tropical oasis where exotic butterflies flutter elegantly around their leafy surroundings.

During butterfly season, May – Septemb256.830.4447; hsvbg.org

Celebrating Our Own: Huntsville Women Artists HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

Celebrating Our Own will feature established and emerging artists working in a diverse range of styles and media.

Organized by HMA.256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

Whistle Stop Festival and Rocket City BBQ Cook-Off FIRST WEEKEND OF MAY--HISTORIC HUNTSVILLE DEPOT

PHOTO: PHOTOS: (TOP) HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU; (BOTTOM) HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

This BBQ event is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and includes a BBQ competition, music, food, and beverages. Event categories include chicken, pork ribs, pork shoulder/butt, beef brisket, sauce, and dessert. 256.564.8100; rocketcitybbq.com

nuggets” along the way. 256.536.2882; burrittonthemountain.com AUGUST

Biergarten U.S. SPACE & ROCKET CENTER

April 1-October 3- U.S. Space and Rocket Center. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with imported and domestic beers, German wines, and authentic German cuisine crafted by renowned chef David Oreskovich.

256.837.3400; ussrc.com

Images of the Great War: The European Offenses, 1914-16 from the Anne S.K. Brown Military Collection HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

An exhibition of original artworks commemorating the centenary of World War I. Images of the Great War presents 44 prints, drawings and watercolors by variBurritt on the Mountain

ous artists depicting aspects of the first two years of the War. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

Scarecrow Trail – Once Upon a Time HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Join us for Scarecrow Trail at the Garden.

The creativity is spectacular and a must see for all ages and the Garden is ablaze with fall blooms and colors. Kids will also enjoy finding their way through the Sorghum Maze and the weekend hayrides are always fun. Come on Labor Day weekend and vote on your favorite Scarecrow – cash prizes awarded to visitor favorites.

Included with Garden admission or membership. 256.830.4447; hsvbg.org SEPTEMBER

Tennessee Valley Bridal and Special Event Show U.S. SPACE & ROCKET CENTER

Brides and their guest will stroll through the unique Saturn Five Hall and experience the best bridal business the Tennessee Valley has to offer. Enjoy a New York style runway fashion show, and sample many culinary delights offered by the best vendors in the valley. 256.585.4041; ussrc.com

JUNE OCTOBER

Connections: Diane Fox | Beauvais Lyons

Celebration of Fall -Day Long Festivities

HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

This exhibit showcases critically acclaimed husband and wife artists Diane Fox and Beauvais Lyons from Knoxville, Tennessee, whose lithographs and photographs use animals as the key protagonists in their works. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org JULY

SideWalk Arts Stroll

Stroll, sip, and shop at The Sidewalk Art Stroll. Guests will enjoy works by various local artists as well as, HulaHoops & HopScotch, alow-tech, high-energy playground for kids of all ages presented by the Historic Huntsville Foundation and Harrison Brothers Hardware. 256.534.8376; sidewalkartsstroll.com

Treasure Hunt at Gold Mountain BURRITT ON THE MOUNTAIN

History comes alive as visitors to Gold Mountain follow a quest for gold just like our ancestors did in 1829. This life size, hands-on experience will provide hours of fun while presenting the rough & tumble life of a prospector while collecting “gold Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Come and spend the day at the Garden.

Apple bobbing, Cornhole, games, face painting, music, crafts, hayrides, and a petting zoo. Pack your own picnic or enjoy offerings from local food truck vendors.

Included with Garden admission or membership. Petting Zoo, $2.00 additional.

256.830.4447; hsvbg.org

Fall Plant Sale HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Planting Roots for a Bright tomorrow. Join us at the 5th annual Fall Plant sale. Local Landscape designers, Master Gardeners, and our own Garden experts are on site to answer any of your toughest garden questions. Free admission to plant sale.

256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

Ginny Ruffner: Aesthetic Engineering HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

Aesthetic Engineering presents a dramatic series of large-scale mixed media works by internationally acclaimed glass artist Ginny Ruffner. Exuberant and wildly imaginative, the works combine bronze, stainless EXCURSIONS 79

EVENTSCALENDAR

Madison Street Festival HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MADISON

Held each year on the 1st Saturday in October, the MSF celebrates the people, music, food and art of Madison, Al. It’s a fun-filled family day that showcases the best of our town and reminds us why Madison is such a great community. madisonstreetfestival.org

South by Southeast: Masters of Studio Glass HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

South by Southeast: Masters of Studio Glass is an invitational group exhibition organized by the Huntsville Museum of Art to showcase the work of noted American glass artists living and working in our region. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org NOVEMBER

Galaxy of Lights HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Bring your family and friends to the best light show in the Southeast! The nine

walking nights of Galaxy of Lights are a special treat. The Driving nights start Thanksgiving and run through January 3, 2015. 256.830.4447; hsvbg.org

ville opens November through January and is located directly behind the Huntsville Museum of Art in Big Spring Park.

256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

Georges Rouault: Cirque de L’Etoile Filante

DECEMBER

HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

The world of the circus has always interested French artist Georges Rouault with its contrast of superficial brightness and the sadness of circus life. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

Grandma Moses: Visions of America HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

Visions of America features approximately 24 original paintings by this legendary American artist, borrowed from institutional collections nationwide and Galerie St. Etienne, New York, the gallery that has represented Grandma Moses since 1940.

Organized by HMA. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

Santa’s Village ALABAMA CONSTITUTION VILLAGE

Visit the Village Santa calls home! Enjoy the twinkling lights, music from local performers, make a craft and, of course, no visit would be complete without spending some time with Santa! Call 256-564-8100 or visit www.earlyworks.com/santasvillage for more information.❖ Scan the code below to access EXCURSIONS Mobile Events Calendar or go to www.excursions.cityvision.tv/events on your mobile device’s browser.

Skating in the Park HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

Skating in the Park in Downtown Hunts-

PHOTO: HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART

steel and blown glass into fantastic futuristic forms. 256.535.4350; hsvmuseum.org

Huntsville Museum of Art

Go EXCURSIONS Mobile at www.excursions.cityvision.tv

EXCURSIONS 80

REGISTER TO WIN A Weekend Stay & Play Package in The Rocket City!

3 simple steps to be eligible to win:

1. Go to SAMYHSV.COM 2. Fill out the sweepstakes

form and “Like” us on Facebook (excursionsbycityvision).

3. Download the Samy

app found in the Apple app store or on Google Play.

Here’s a shortcut: Scan the QR code with your smartphone QR code reader app to go directly to the registration page at samyhsv.com

ONE WINNER CHOSEN EVERY MONTH! What you could win:

Hotel stay, Dinner & Passes to Local Attractions.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THIS GIVEAWAY. Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 50 United States or the District of Columbia, age 18 or older at time of entry.

EXCURSIONS A GUEST DIRECTORY

EXCURSIONS

SM

A GUEST DIRECTORY

Huntsville & Madison 4th Edition

Huntsville & Madison

Tourist

4th Edition

Explore our space past and future 362 days a year – stay an hour or a weekend!

Fascinating 2 to 6 day immersive camps for all ages: children, families, adults and corporate programs!

RocketCenterUSA www.rocketcenter.com • www.spacecamp.com • 1-800-637-7223

Untitled-30 1

GO EXCURSIONS MOBILE AT WWW.EXCURSIONS.CITYVISION.TV

HOTEL PROPERTY PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE

8/21/14 6:52 AM