Huntsville Alabama Hotels & Motels

When are the best times to visit Huntsville, AL?

With hot temperatures in the summer and chilly weather in the winter, spring and fall are the ideal seasons in which to visit Huntsville. July, October, and August are the busiest months for tourism, so expect to see a spike in hotel prices during those dates. If you want to save money, plan to travel to Huntsville during the slow December season.

Which hotels in Huntsville, AL offer the best discounts?

Choice Hotels properties such as the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites and the Clarion Inn offer special rates for seniors, AARP members, AAA and CAA members, and federal and state government and military employees. Extended Stay America provides special rates for AAA members, senior citizens, and members of the military. The Westin offers a 20 percent discount for residents of Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Kentucky, as well as special pricing for AAA members. Marriott properties such as the Courtyard offer a 15 percent discount for senior citizens and special rates for AAA members and government and military employees.

Where are the best budget hotels around Huntsville, Alabama?

The best hotel values in Huntsville offer the ideal combination of desirable amenities and an affordable price. The Courtyard Huntsville University Drive ranks at the top of this list for its convenient location, which is just a stone's throw away from major attractions like the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and Huntsville Botanical Garden. Every room and suite includes complimentary wireless internet and a flat-screen TV. Guests can also take advantage of the fitness center, outdoor pool, and Starbucks coffee at the on-site Bistro. This hotel also has a free shuttle service that will take you anywhere within a six-mile radius, including the airport.

Another great Huntsville hotel deal is available at the Clarion Inn, which provides clean, comfortable rooms at a budget-friendly rate. Amenities include free parking, an outdoor pool, free wireless internet, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant and bar, in-room microwave and refrigerator, dry cleaning and laundry service, and complimentary breakfast.

What are some fun things to do near Huntsville, AL?

It's not a visit to Huntsville without a trip to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. As one of the world's largest space museums, it features an IMAX theater, an immense collection of space and rocket memorabilia, and permanent exhibits highlighting America's Space Race, NASA's plan to put man on the moon, the development of the space shuttle program, and the International Space Station. Rotating exhibits are also open to the public. The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week and offers special pricing for kids, seniors, students, NASA employees, and military members.

Another standout among Huntsville's many museums is the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum. It features one of the nation's largest collections of rare and significant military artifacts, memorabilia, and equipment dating all the way back to the American Revolution. Exhibits are divided by era and include an outdoor exhibit of more than 30 military vehicles. The U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum offers admission with a suggested donation of $5. It's open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

When you're done delving into Huntsville's history, explore its natural wonders with a visit to the Green Mountain Nature Trail. This 72-acre park features access to Sky Lake, a 1.5-mile walking trail, outdoor classroom, picnic tables, covered bridge, and restrooms. Enjoy the year-round foliage, including Alabama's oldest and largest champion winged elm tree, dogwoods, and azaleas in the spring; gorgeous wildflowers in the summer; and the vibrant colors of changing leaves in the fall. The Green Mountain Nature Trail is open from 7 a.m. to sunset every day.

Another beautiful outdoor attraction is the Huntsville Botanical Garden, featuring a wildflower and nature trail, dozens of specialty plant collections and gardens, an aquatic garden, the largest butterfly house in the U.S., eight special children's gardens, seasonal exhibits, and fun events throughout the year. Hours are seasonal and ticket discounts are available, so check the garden's official website for the most updated information.

From March through November, you can drive through the Harmony Park Safari to catch glimpses of dozens of exotic animals, including zebras, antelope, camels, buffalo, ostriches, kangaroos, giraffes, tortoises, and reptiles. The safari costs $10 per person and is open from 10 a.m. to sunset during the months of operation.

Huntsville is also home to Monte Sano State Park, which has been a natural respite since the the late 1800s. This serene mountain setting spans more than 2,000 acres and offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails and 14 miles of biking trails, a disc golf course, a playground, and camping. Visit in the spring to see the splendor of the azaleas in bloom.

Big Spring International Park is a downtown green space that often holds community events and festivals, so be sure to check the calendar if you want to experience the true spirit of Huntsville. From free outdoor concerts to an annual art walk, you're sure to find something that appeals to your group. You can also stroll the grounds and commune with the local ducks and geese.

If you want to immerse yourself in local arts and culture, stop by the Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment Center, the largest privately owned art studio in the United States. It has 148 working studios, six galleries, and several performance venues including a theater. Public hours are held at Lowe Mill on Wednesday and Thursday from noon to 6 p.m., Friday from noon to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Whether you're interested in space exploration or you want to create an itinerary that spans the variety of things to see and do in Huntsville, you won't be disappointed when you plan your visit to this historic American city.