Huntsville offers its own unique blend of nature and entertainment, but for those who are looking for new experiences and a change in scenery, it is also the perfect starting point for short getaways.
UNPLUGGED GETAWAYS
WHERE: Mentone, AL
DISTANCE FROM HUNTSVILLE: 1 hour 20 minutes
WHAT: The quaint, eclectic town of Mentone is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains offering stunning views and outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. With over 25 trails nearby, waterfalls abound and can be found on the trails to DeSoto Falls, Laurel Falls and Lost Falls, Lodge Falls via the Wildflower Trail, or Little River Canyon National Preserve, the nation’s longest mountaintop river. Visitors can explore local shops and restaurants like The Hatter Cafe, Elevation Bistro or a short drive to Fort Payne leads you to The Bakehouse, a great spot for coffee and breakfast. Unplugged Getaways offers cozy cabins to disconnect and unwind. The solitude and beauty that surrounds can easily turn this day trip into an overnight favorite.
CONTACT: unplugged-getaways.yolasite.com | 423.314.1215
CITY HARBOR AT LAKE GUNTERSVILLE
WHERE: 29 Paddle Wheel Drive, Guntersville, AL 35976
DISTANCE FROM HUNTSVILLE: 40 minutes
WHAT: Situated on the banks of Lake Guntersville, the largest lake in Alabama, this mixed-use entertainment development provides visitors with access to a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding along with restaurants and shopping. They even have City Harbor Suites which can be booked for weekend or weekday stays. Enjoy lunch or dinner at Levi’s On The Lake, La Esquina, The Brewer’s Cooperative, or Big Mike’s.
CONTACT: cityharboratlakeguntersville.com | 256.202.1644
COOK MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE
WHERE: 133 4th Avenue NE, Decatur, AL 35601
DISTANCE FROM HUNTSVILLE: 27 minutes
WHAT: The “River City” offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions, including the Cook Museum of Natural Science. The museum features interactive exhibits showcasing the natural history of the region. Your family will enjoy an immersive cave experience and view live animals including baby alligators, turtles, snakes, insects, jellyfish, fresh and saltwater fish. There are also forest exhibits including a tree for climbing and a rope bridge leading to a squirrel’s nest.
CONTACT: https://www.cookmuseum.org/exhibits/ | 256.351.4505
BLOOMSBURY FARM
WHERE: 9398 Del Thomas Road, Smyrna, TN 37167
DISTANCE FROM HUNTSVILLE: 1 hour 53 minutes
WHAT: This family-owned and operated organic farm near Nashville is a breath of fresh air. Seasonal events like Farm Fridays which run March-October as well as special farm to table dinners make excellent reasons to visit Bloomsbury Farm. At the Friday market you will find fresh produce, homemade jams and jellies, and a variety of farm animals. Their summer camps and farm forest school were built on the idea that “nature is inherently full of opportunities.” The countryside can be enjoyed for more than just a day - The Loft at Bloomsbury Farm located above the stables is outfitted for the perfect nature retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
CONTACT: bloomsburyfarms.com | 615.355.8525
ALABAMA FOLK SCHOOL
WHERE: Camp McDowell, 105 Delong Road, Nauvoo, AL 35578
DISTANCE FROM HUNTSVILLE: 1 hour 40 minutes
WHAT: A drive through beautiful Bankhead National Forest leads to one of Alabama’s favorite summer destinations, Camp McDowell, which is home to the Alabama Folk School. Throughout the year the Folk School has different special events, workshops, and classes that visitors can partake in for a day or longer and discover homesteading, quilting, pottery, folk music, and the rich history of living off the land. Bluegrass and Gee's Bend happens April 20 at 4pm through April 23 at 1pm. This workshop provides an immersive experience with musicians and artists.
CONTACT: campmcdowell.org | 205.387.1806
Jessica Aguirre-Cantrell, "The Huntsville Mom," is a well-known writer, influencer, and community advocate based in Huntsville. She is a wife and mother to two young children. Her social media channels are a go-to resource.
