Things to do in Athens
Big Spring Memorial Park
Big Spring Park is named after a underground spring that John Hunt, Huntsville's founder, built a cabin next to in 1805. During the 19th Century and the first half of the 20th Century, the spring was the Huntsville's water source. Today the park features gifts given by other countries to Huntsville. One of the most recognizable gifts is the "Red Bridge", given to the city from Japan in 1987. Other gifts include 60 cherry blossom trees, also from Japan, a "lighthouse" from Norway, and a park bench from Britain. Call (256) 383-0783 for more information.
200 Church St., SW Huntsville, AL 35801
Donnell House
Completed 1851 for Rev. Robert Donnell, founder, Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Later, home for principals of North Alabama Agricultural School, Athens High and Middle Schools. Guided tours. Available for meetings, receptions, small weddings. Amenities & Disabled Accessibility Call (256) 232-0743 for more information.
601 1/2 S. Clinton, Athens, AL 35612
Houston Memorial Library and Museum
Home to attorney, member of U.S. Senate, and governor of Alabama twice. 1835 house features Houston family coat of arms, furnishings, history room. Call (256) 233-8770 for more information.
101 N. Houston St., Athens, AL 35611
The Altar of the New Testament and Founders Hall
1840s Greek Revival Founders Hall at Athens State University, state’s oldest college. Altar's elegant wood carvings tell story of New Testament. Call (256) 233-8215 for more information.
Athens State University, 300 N. Beaty St., Athens, AL 35611
US Space and Rocket Center
Past, present and future of space exploration. Demonstrations, hands-on exhibits, IMAX movie in Spacedome Theater. Watch future astronauts in Space Camp Training Center. Take a spine-tingling trip on Space Shot. Call (256) 837-3400 for more information.
One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805