Southern Wildlife Festival, Decatur, AL

Wildlife artists come together for annual show

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | July 25, 2010

The Southern Wildlife Festival brings some of America’s most talented artists and photographers to the annual art show at Calhoun Community College.

This year’s event is Aug. 21-22 in the Carlton B. Kelley Gymnasium. Hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for students and senior citizens, and children under 6 get in for free.

Burritt on the Mountain, Huntsville, AL

Kids will love the Barnyard, trails and park

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | July 20, 2010

Burritt on the Mountain, often called the “Jewel on the Mountain,” will take you back to a 19th century farm.

Dr. William Henry Burritt gave his mansion and 167 acres of surrounding land to the city of Huntsville in 1955. That home and property became the city’s first museum, complete with a park, barnyard animals, concerts, plays, and exhibits. You can take stroll on one of Burritt’s several

Rocket City Beach Bash, Huntsville, AL

Rocket City Beach Bash benefits beaches

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | July 14, 2010

Want to go to the beach but don’t have the time or money? Worried about the oil spill endangering Alabama’s beautiful shores and want to do something to help? At the Rocket City Beach Bash you can do both!

The family-friendly event July 31 and Aug. 1 will raise funds for the EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, and a portion of every ticket sold will be donated to help save our Gulf …

Crossroads Music Hall, Huntsville, AL

Club showcases artists of many different genres

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | July 11, 2010

Crossroads Music Hall is one of my favorite spots to hear live music in Huntsville.

Unlike some local bars, Crossroads has plenty of space so you’re not constantly bumping into someone and getting beer sloshed all over you. If you’re not in the mood to stand in front and center and watch the band, you can head to the back of bar, shoot pool and just listen.

Madison County State Public Fishing Lake, Gurley, AL

Catch your fill at this lake open year-round

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | July 06, 2010

If you want to fish without swimmers scaring away your potential catch, head on over to Gurley and the Madison County State Public Fishing Lake, located just 11 miles east of Huntsville. The lake, open year-round, is 105 acres filled with trout, bass, bluegill, red-ear sunfish, catfish, and crappie.

The lake opens at sunrise for all of you early birds, and it stays open until sunset for those of you who want …

Lake Guntersville, Guntersville, AL

Stay and play at this gorgeous lake

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | July 05, 2010

Lake Guntersville is breathtaking, as you can see in the sunset photo at left. One of the best fishing lakes in America, the 69,000-acre reservoir has been home to several BASSMaster tournaments. In addition to fishing, the lake along 950 miles of shoreline offers boating, skiing and swimming.

Located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Northeast Alabama, Lake Guntersville …

EarlyWorks Museum Complex, Huntsville, AL

Museums offer summer fun for the whole family

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | June 29, 2010

EarlyWorks has four new exhibits and events this summer, starting with Little Toot’s Imagination Station open at the Huntsville Historic Depot. This spot is for children 6 under only and lets the youngest visitors “cook and serve” or “sit and eat” at the Depot Diner. Kids can get a taste of what it means to “fill ’er up” and check the engine at Dan’s Garage. If that’s not enough, they …

Breweries, Huntsville, AL

Gourmet beer is just around the corner

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | June 28, 2010

If you’re tired of plain old domestic beers, check out these local breweries for more distinctive flavors: Olde Towne Brewing Co. and Straight to Ale.

Olde Towne, Huntsville’s first brewery, is on Leeman Ferry Road and offers four year-round tastes: Olde Towne Amber Ale, Olde Towne Hefeweizen, Olde Towne Pale Ale, Olde Towne Pilsner. Seasonal favorites include Olde Towne Pumpkin Ale, brewed up in October, and Olde Towne Porter, offered …

Spirit of America Festival, Decatur, AL

Huntsville author to receive Audie Murphy Patriotism Award

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | June 23, 2010

The Spirit of America Festival at Point Mallard in Decatur is a great destination for free family fun on July 4th.

Forty-four years ago, the event was started to show North Alabama’s support for Americans fighting in Vietnam. An award was created to honor someone who exemplifies the American spirit. The first recipient, Audie Murphy, died just weeks before he was to receive the award. The honor was …

2010 FLW Tour, Huntsville, AL

Top fishermen hit Lake Guntersville, Huntsville for tournament

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | June 07, 2010

The 2010 FLW Tour will hit Lake Guntersville and Huntsville June 23-26. This event showcases the world’s best bass fishermen who will angle for $125,000. You can also check out fishing and hunting exhibits, boat displays and free family activities.

The Family Fun Zone & Outdoor Expo will set up at the Von Braun Center June 25 from 5-9 …

Joe Wheeler State Park, Rogersville, AL

Leave the city behind for some quiet time camping

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | May 25, 2010

Early morning wake-ups, all day swims, grilling hot dogs and hamburgers, and toasting marshmallows ... that’s how many of my childhood days were spent in the summers past.

And most of those days were spent at Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville.

Tucked just off Highway 72 between Huntsville and Florence, you’ll find a campground, a golf course, a

Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic, Decatur, AL

Balloon festival is a Memorial Day classic

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | May 21, 2010

There’s no better way to start summer than spending Memorial Day weekend at Point Mallard Park, watching hot-air balloons and fireworks—and taking a dip in America’s first wave pool.

The 33rd annual Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic is set for May 29-30 in Decatur. The free family event features balloon races, tethered rides, live music and awesome fireworks.

Get out to the park early …

Star Wars, Huntsville, AL

Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | May 14, 2010

In a galaxy far, far away lives a handsome Jedi knight, a rogue pilot, a brave princess, an evil dark lord, and all manner of intelligent robots and outerspace creatures.

This summer you can journey to that galaxy, courtesy of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville. Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination kicks off June 25 and runs through Sept. 6. It’s a good idea to

Riverdance, Huntsville, AL

Irish dancing show says goodbye

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | May 04, 2010

Riverdance will play three farewell performances at the Von Braun Center Concert Hall in Huntsville May 11 and 12. More than 2 billion people have seen the Irish dancing phenomenon on television. Now it’s your chance to see it live. And for free, courtesy of New Space Entertainment. But you have to keep reading to find out how.

The original Riverdance was a seven-minute version in the 1994

WhistleStop Festival, Huntsville, AL

A delicious slice of Southern life

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | April 28, 2010

The annual WhistleStop Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary this weekend as it brings country star Rodney Atkins and a whole bunch of barbecue cooks to the Historic Huntsville Depot. Atkins will headline the show Saturday night, following Shelly Colvin, Jeff Whitlow & the Old Barn Band, and The Jason Albert Band. Friday’s entertainment is Kozmic Mama, …

Lawlers Barbecue, Huntsville, AL

Hickory-smoked barbecue will leave you wanting more

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | April 26, 2010

In a hurry for dinner? Lawlers Barbecue is “cooked slow and served fast,” making supper quick and easy. With family packs to make sandwiches, huge baked potatoes stuffed with meat, or salads topped with delicious barbecue, you’ll find a dish on the menu to please everyone.

My family loves Lawlers, and so do VisitSouth readers. In the summer, I often take my daughter there for …

Huntsville Stars, Huntsville, AL

Stars offer fun times at The Joe this season

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | April 25, 2010

Looking for a good baseball game with perks? The Huntsville Stars, the double-A affiliate for the Milwaukee Brewers, have several fun promotions for home games this season.

On Sundays, youth sports teams, Scout troops and packs, and their leaders get free admission thanks to a deal with SportsMed and Fox 54. Just show up in your team uniforms and head to the box office for entry.

Alabama Vipers, Huntsville, AL

AFL's Vipers return home to VBC on May 1

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | April 19, 2010

If Alabama and Auburn’s spring games weren’t enough to tide you over until fall football season, the Alabama Vipers have just what you need.

The Vipers are back home May 1 in their first year against the “big boys” of the revamped Arena Football League, a combination of former AFL teams and quality arena2 teams. Sporting a 2-1 record, the team will face the …

Huntsville Havoc Hockey, Huntsville, AL

Havoc plays for SPHL championship Saturday night

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | April 16, 2010

The Huntsville Havoc play the Mississippi Surge for the Southern Professional Hockey League President’s Cup championship Saturday night. Put on your red and fill the Von Braun Center arena to help the boys bring home the SPHL title!

Huntsville finished the regular season 31-16-9 and ranked second in the league. The Havoc ousted Pensacola and Knoxville in the playoffs on the way to the championship series with Mississippi.
…

Spring Zing, Huntsville, AL

Races benefit P.E. programs, playgrounds at Montessori School of Huntsville

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | April 13, 2010

It’s spring and time to get outdoors, and what better way than a 5K and fun run that will go toward a program to keep kids healthy?

The Montessori School of Huntsville is hosting its Spring Zing on Sunday, April 18. It includes a 5K run and a 1-mile fun run. The 5K starts at 2 p.m., while the fun run gets under way at 3 p.m.

…

Alabama Chicken and Egg Festival, Moulton, AL

Festival highlights importance of state's poultry industry

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | April 09, 2010

Which came first, the chicken or the egg? This weekend at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds in Moulton, they both get top billing.

The Alabama Chicken and Egg Festival is a two-day outdoor festival with food, live entertainment, educational exhibits, children’s activities, arts and crafts, and more. The Lawrence County Arts Council hosts the event, and more than 400 volunteers help out each year.

Why have a Chicken and Egg Festival? Well, …

Huntsville Botanical Garden, Huntsville, AL

Tremendous Treehouses are for kids of all ages

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | April 05, 2010

Remember when you wanted nothing more than a big ol’ treehouse in your backyard? Well, head to the Huntsville Botanical Garden to see your wish come true. You can climb and swing your way through the Tremendous Treehouses exhibit now. SAIC is this year’s sponsor.

These aren’t your average treehouses, either. Eleven structures were built by architects, builders, a local high school, and the Botanical Garden staff. They are interactive …

Huntsville International Airport, Huntsville, AL

AirTran Airways set to start service in May

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | March 29, 2010

Passengers flying out of Huntsville International Airport could soon be saving money on airfare when traveling to Walt Disney World or our nation’s capital.

AirTran Airways, one of the nation's premier low-cost carriers, is coming to the Rocket City. Nonstop flights to Orlando and Baltimore/Washington International take off May 27, with fares starting as low as $89 one way.

With a hub in Atlanta, AirTran …

Panoply Arts Festival, Huntsville AL

Festival celebrates art in the Rocket City

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | March 24, 2010

The weekend of April 23-25 will see Big Spring International Park transformed into a massive arts playground with the annual Panoply Arts Festival. Several events will be held in the Von Braun Center.

This year’s theme is “Home is Where the HeART Is,” embracing the Alabama Department of Tourism's Year of Small Towns and Downtowns. The three-day festival is family-friendly, green and is a no-smoking event.

Catch the

Shaggy’s Burgers & Tacos, Huntsville, AL

Can't decide if you want Mexican or American? Have both at Shaggy's

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | March 12, 2010

Some friends and my family met up at Shaggy's Burgers & Tacos after our daughters' softball practice one afternoon for lunch. There were four adults and four kids, all 8 or younger—not an easy crowd to please—but everyone left full and happy.

The kids loved the surfboards and swordfish on the walls; the grown-ups loved that there was something for everyone on the menu.

Two of us had the

Finnegan’s Pub, Huntsville, AL

Get your Irish stew and green beer on St. Patrick's Day

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | March 08, 2010

It doesn’t take the luck o’ the Irish to find the best St. Patrick’s Day party in Huntsville. Just head south on the Parkway.

Since 1977 Finnegan’s Pub has been celebrating the day in authentic Irish style. This year will be no different, so put on your best green duds, put a twinkle in your eyes and head down to the pub founded by the late Ellen McAnelly.

Finnegan’s, located on South Memorial …

UAH Hockey, Huntsville, AL

Stanley Cup will be on display at Chargers vs. Bemidji State game

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | March 04, 2010

The National Hockey League’s prized possession arrives in Huntsville Friday at the UAH Chargers game against Bemidji State at the Von Braun Center. On this rare occasion, fans will be able to snap photos with the famed Stanley Cup, last won by the Pittsburgh Penguins, starting at 4 p.m. Game time is 5:35 p.m.

“This is a special opportunity for our fans and community to come out and see one …

Alabama A&M University, Normal, AL

At A&M, it's about getting students in, then getting them out into the world

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | March 01, 2010

I took a step back in time and joined a family from Atlanta on a tour of the Alabama A&M University campus led by Admissions Counselor Morris Hall. It’s a good thing I wore comfy shoes because the campus, known as The Hill, is huge, covering more than 2,000 rolling acres. Thank goodness for the Bulldog Transit System.

The BTS, an on-campus bus system, revs up …

EarlyWorks Children’s History Museum, Huntsville, AL

Let your kids get their hands on history

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | February 26, 2010

Billed as “the South’s largest hands-on history museum,” EarlyWorks Children’s Museum will bring out your kid’s inner explorer.

Step past the bright yellow columns and through the bright red doors and let your child wander to his heart’s content.

One hall is lined with portraits of every United States president. It’s fun to note the changes in hairstyles, clothing and facial hair while examining the pictures.

Hear the Talking Tree’s …

Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater, Huntsville, AL

Let the Magic Begin: Fantasy Playhouse celebrates its 50th anniversary

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | February 22, 2010

Since 1960, Fantasy Playhouse, an all-volunteer organization, has delighted children with its fresh takes on classic tales like Beauty and the Beast and Alice in Wonderland. I remember being so excited to visit the playhouse when I was a sixth-grader at Hazlewood Elementary. Huntsville was the “big city” and attending a play was such a grown-up thing to do. We saw Aladdin, and I was fascinated by the stars of the show …

Travel Guide to Huntsville, AL

Why You Should Visit Huntsville

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | February 15, 2010

Drive down Interstate 565 toward Huntsville and you’ll see why it’s called the Rocket City as you are greeted by the Saturn V at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. The Davidson Center for Space Exploration is home to the restored Saturn V, part of the Apollo program, and artifacts ranging from spacesuits to a quarantine trailer. And, of course, there's U.S. Space Camp, where fifth-graders from around …

Sci-Quest, Hands-On Science Center, Huntsville, AL

Find out what makes your ticker work during Have a Heart Day

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | February 12, 2010

If you want more heart than a paper valentine can give you, head down to Sci-Quest, Hands-On Science Center on Saturday for Have a Heart Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

You and your child can watch your own heartbeats, make stethoscopes and other crafts, and see a real sheep heart. You’ll also learn more about how this life-sustaining organ and muscle works.

Did you know the heart is only a little …

Po Boy Factory, Huntsville, AL

It's always Mardi Gras at this New Orleans-style restaurant

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | February 09, 2010

Mardi Gras Day is Feb. 16, and if you’re looking for a little Fat Tuesday flavor in Huntsville, the Po Boy Factory is your place. It’s the big yellow house at 815 Andrew Jackson Way where you’ll find a taste of New Orleans in every bite and all the “Geaux, Saints!” signs.

Folks I’ve talked to rave about the friendly staff and the fun atmosphere, and when I dropped in this …

Distinctive Destination, Huntsville, AL

City makes list of the dozen best places to visit

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | February 05, 2010

Earlier this week, Huntsville added to its list of honors when it was chosen as one of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations. The public will be able to vote for a Fan Favorite, so click here or here to register and vote for the Rocket City! The contest runs through Feb. 28, so vote as much as you can and tell your friends and …

Crossroads Music Hall, Huntsville, AL

Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights set to shake, rattle and roll the Rocket City

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | February 03, 2010

Way back in June 2008, I blogged about Jonathan Tyler & The Northern Lights, a Dallas-area band I found through singer-songwriter Jason Castro, a former “American Idol” contestant.  It was love at first listen. Now, I’m finally going to see them play live—at Crossroads Music Hall Thursday night.

Think Southern rock, blues, soul, even a little early Rod Stewart all …

Bob Baumhower’s Wings Sports Grille, Huntsville, AL

Get your fill of wings and burgers while catching the big game

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | February 01, 2010

Walk into Bob Baumhower’s Wings Sports Grille on Balmoral Drive and you walk into a shrine to sports. The first thing you notice as you walk in the door is a display case filled with jerseys and helmets from local high school teams. A huge painting of the University of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium hangs on the wall to the right. (Baumhower was an All-American at Bama and made the Pro Bowl six …

Rotary Gala, Huntsville, AL

Become 'Americans in Paris' while helping two causes

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 29, 2010

If you’re tired of sweatpants and heavy coats, here’s your chance to get all spiffed up and do good at the same time.

The Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville marks its 10th anniversary with a black-tie Gala on Feb. 20 at the Von Braun Center North Hall. Don your tux or your evening gown and celebrate as "Americans in Paris." The theme is based loosely on the 1951 …

The Westin, Huntsville, AL

This romantic getaway offers decadent packages to celebrate your love.

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 26, 2010

Looking for a little romance? The Westin Huntsville at Bridge Street Town Centre offers the ultimate couples getaway.

Book the Indulge Your Passions package for a weekend starting at $215 a night. The Westin staff will take care of everything while you and your loved one relax and enjoy time together. Sparkling wine and strawberries and rose petals sprinkled on the Heavenly Bed await you as you enter …

Lowe Mill Auction for Haiti, Huntsville, AL

Artists donate works to raise money for disaster relief

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 22, 2010

The Hope for Haiti Now telethon was a somber and moving experience. Against a backdrop showing the devasation, musicians and actors came together to perform and appeal for donations to help survivors of the earthquake. Interspersed among the stories of loss were stories of rescue and hope.

We might not be in Hollywood or New York or London, but we can still help bring relief to those who are hurting. The …

Lowe Mill Concert for Haiti, Huntsville, AL

Local musicians, artists gather to raise money to help quake survivors

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 19, 2010

In the wake of the earthquake in Haiti that has left millions homeless and tens of thousands dead, Lowe Mill is hosting a concert and silent auction Sunday, Jan. 24 at 5 p.m. with proceeds going to disaster relief. Admission is $5 and doors open at 4 p.m.

Organizers have selected three charities for donors to choose from: Yele Haiti, Doctors Without …

Von Braun Center Concerts, Huntsville, AL

Classic Rock to Country in the Rocket City

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 16, 2010

It might be cold outside, but upcoming concerts at the Von Braun Center will heat things up. The legendary Willie Nelson kicks things off Tuesday night. And the music continues through March.

New country star Jason Aldean, who had a big hit with one of my favorite songs of the summer “She’s Country,” will make a stop at the VBC on Feb. 18. Ticket prices start at …

Buffalo Soldiers Memorial, Huntsville, AL

Memorial honors 10th Cavalry soldiers

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 12, 2010

Did you know that Huntsville’s Academy for Academics and Arts is home of a memorial to one of the most celebrated units of the United States Army?

Standing proudly in front of the school, a 10-foot-tall, black granite marker recalls the 10th Cavalry’s time in Huntsville and the black Buffalo Soldiers’ accomplishments fighting for a young America. The base of the memorial lists Medal of Honor recipients who served in the 10th Cavalry. A bronze statue …

Willie Nelson, Huntsville, AL

Willie brings classic country back to VBC

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 09, 2010

On the road again, just can’t wait to get on the road again ... Willie Nelson is headed back to Huntsville for a Jan. 19 show at the Von Braun Center Concert Hall.

I remember growing up listening to Willie, Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, Don Williams and Marty Robbins playing on our gigantic old stereo. My dad had 8-tracks and records, and although I didn’t realize it at the time, …

Fitness Picks, Huntsville, AL

Take your workout outside for fresh air, fun times

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 05, 2010

When most people think of exercise, they think of the gym. If you’re like me, you sometimes get tired of the stuffy, dry indoor air. Huntsville boasts plenty of parks, trails and green spaces, so maybe it’s time to take your workout outside.

With nearly 100 parks and recreation centers, Huntsville has no shortage of places to work out, walk or just play.

The

Bridal Fairs, Huntsville, AL

Get a head start on your wedding planning

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | January 02, 2010

The new year means the start of the bridal season, and Huntsville offers three big fairs this month.

The Wedding Group of Huntsville and WRSA-FM Lite 96.9 kick off the season with the 17th annual Bridal Gala on Sunday, Jan. 3, 1-4 p.m. at The Westin Huntsville at Bridge Street Town Centre. For more information, call 256-881-7780.

Celebrations Bridal Event by Modern Brides Inc. will take place Sunday, Jan. 10 …

Havoc Hockey, Huntsville, AL

Tired of football? Head to the VBC and chill out with some Havoc hockey

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | December 24, 2009

After you've unwrapped the gifts, polished off the turkey and candied pretzels, and watched all the football bowl games you can stand, jump in your car and drive to the Von Braun Center to catch some action on the ice.

The Huntsville Havoc take on the second-place Fayetteville FireAntz on Monday, Dec. 28 at 7:35 p.m. The Havoc is atop the Southern Professional Hockey League standings with Fayetteville in second place. It's also Hockey Night in …

Christmas at the Sci-Quest Museum, Huntsville, AL

Huntsville offers range of holiday activities

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | December 22, 2009

If you’re looking for something different to do during the holidays, Huntsville offers several options, from interior design exhibits to hitting the ice with Jolly Old St. Nicholas.

For the second year, local designers came out to Deck the Halls at the mansion at Burritt on the Mountain – A Living Museum, 3101 Burritt Drive. See how these artists took creative liberties with their trees or window decorations to come up with unique holiday …

Santa’s Village, Huntsville, AL

Santa's Village delights young, old with snow, reindeer and Mr. and Mrs. Claus

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | December 18, 2009

Who says Huntsville never gets snow? At Santa's Village, 109 Gates Avenue, the white stuff falls every 20 minutes. Grab a cup of hot chocolate, head inside and let the wonderment begin.

Kids can make "cookies" and hear Mrs. Claus read a story. The local blacksmith stokes his fire and shows visitors how to make nails used to repair Santa's sleigh. Elves help kids map out Santa’s worldwide delivery route, a fun and educational lesson. They …

Galaxy of Lights, Huntsville, AL

Huntsville Botanical Garden transforms into Winter Wonderland

by Tiffani Hill-Patterson | December 15, 2009

You want Christmas lights? The Huntsville Botanical Garden is all aglow after flipping the switch on its Galaxy of Lights. A North Alabama holiday must-see, the displays featuring everything from Santa to Cinderella from Nativity scenes to NASA rockets will delight the whole family.

Cruise through the Icicle Forest’s thousands of cascading lights and you’ll feel you’re in a Winter Wonderland. Catch penguins splashing, dinosaurs roaring and the Jolly Old Elf making his list and checking …