19 Best Things to Do in Huntsville, AL at Night & Late Afternoon | 2024 (with Photos)

Huntsville, Alabama, is not just a city for daytime adventures. As the sun sets, Huntsville comes alive with a vibrant nightlife and an array of unique and fun activities to enjoy after dark.

Whether you're looking for live music, delicious food, or cultural experiences, Huntsville has something to offer everyone.

Get ready for an unforgettable night as we explore 19 of the best things to do in Huntsville, AL at night and late afternoon.

Table of Contents

1. Enjoy Live Music in Downtown Huntsville

2. Chill in Voodoo Lounge Bar

3. Have a Fun Night at Stand Up Live

4. Shop and Dine at the Bridge Street Town Centre

5. Hop on The Rocket City Rover

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1. Enjoy Live Music in Downtown Huntsville

Experience the vibrant live music scene in downtown Huntsville, Alabama, where you'll find a fantastic atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable night.

As you explore the nightlife in Huntsville, you're sure to encounter numerous bars, including Voodoo Lounge Bar and Humphrey's Bar and Grill, that showcase live music.

Breweries like Below the Radar Brewhouse and Green Bus Brewing also offer both great brews along with cool live performances.

Sidetracks Music Hall stands as another prime destination for live music in Huntsville, where you can let the city's energetic vibe carry you into the night.

2. Chill in Voodoo Lounge Bar

If you're in search of a great dive bar, Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill is the perfect destination.

Housed in a rustic barn, the Voodoo Lounge Bar exudes a dark and mysterious ambiance.

You can enjoy a wide selection of drinks at reasonable prices and enjoy a fun laid-back atmosphere in the bar area.

Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies of jazz and blues music delivered by local live bands.

3. Have a Fun Night at Stand Up Live

Stand Up Live is the ultimate destination for a fun-filled evening in Huntsville. There's no better way to kick-start your night than with a hearty dose of laughter.

Stand Up Live proudly stands as the epicenter of comedy in Huntsville, featuring a top-notch lineup of side-splitting comedy acts.

The venue also offers good food and refreshing drinks to complement your experience.

To secure the best seats closest to the stage, it is advisable to make an advanced reservation and arrive a bit earlier.

4. Shop and Dine at the Bridge Street Town Centre

A mere 5-minute drive from the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Bridge Street Town Centre offers a perfect way to cap off your visit to the largest space museum in the world.

This vibrant outdoor shopping and entertainment complex is a haven for those seeking a taste of Huntsville after dark, often featuring live music and performers.

With a top-notch selection of over 70 high-end shops, restaurants, and even a movie theater, Bridge Street Town Centre is a great place to enjoy a few hours of entertainment.

5. Hop on The Rocket City Rover

The Rocket City Rover presents an enjoyable fusion of sightseeing, physical activity, and socializing, all aboard a pedal-powered party trolley.

This cool vehicle accommodates up to 14 people and allows you to indulge in the pleasures of exercising, admiring the scenery, and savoring your favorite beverages at the same time.

Seasoned riders can embrace the challenge of downtown's gentle hills and valleys, as the motor can be disengaged, providing a heart-pumping workout.

The regularly scheduled rides on the Rocket city Rover take place at 6 pm and 8 pm from Thursday to Saturday, and private rides can be arranged at any time to suit your convenience.

6. Visit the Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment on a Friday Night

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, a thriving creative hub, opens its doors to the public on Friday nights.

This unique facility provides a space for artists to showcase and sell their creations, while visitors can witness the creative process and potentially make a purchase.

With 148 working studios, 6 galleries, performance venues, and a theater, Lowe Mill A&E offers a diverse range of artistic experiences.

The venue also hosts free events, such as the Concerts on the Dock series, held every Friday night in spring and fall, featuring live music beneath the iconic Lowe Mill A&E water tower.

7. Grab a Drink in a Speakeasy Bar

Alabama was one of the first states to enact prohibition. Today it is no longer a dry state but the nostalgia surrounding a speakeasy is still alive and well.

Steeped in nuances from the 1920s, Catacomb 435 Speakeasy has a cool dark decor that adds to the retro vibe.

Catacomb 435 doesn't have a drinks menu but instead, guests fill out the form and the expert mixologists will make a unique cocktail that’s tailored to their preferences.

8. Enjoy Big Spring Park

Discover the serene beauty of Big Spring Park, a charming oasis nestled in downtown Huntsville.

This great location and picturesque setting is perfect for a relaxing evening walk after a day of exploration, a family gathering at the picnic tables, or even special events, such as a birthday party.

Don't miss the opportunity to see enchanting features such as the lighthouse, the red bridge, and the lovely cherry trees.

Adjacent to the park, you'll find the Huntsville Museum of Art, a treasure trove of exquisite pieces where you can immerse yourself in the local arts and culture scene.

9. Enjoy Local Craft Beer at Green Bus Brewing

Indulge in the finest local craft beer at Green Bus Brewing, a local favorite for a fun night out.

Green Bus Brewing takes pride in their carefully crafted distinctive brews.

The place offers outdoor seating where you can get fresh air while enjoying your cold drinks.

If you appreciate the art of brewing and want to get a taste of the fun Huntsville nightlife , Green Bus Brewing promises a great experience for all.

10. Get an Adrenaline Rush at the Insanity Complex

Explore the expansive Insanity Complex, a thrilling recreational destination spanning across 28 acres. Within its grounds, you'll find a dynamic array of activities to enjoy.

Unleash your skills at the indoor skating rink or test your limits at the impressive 38,000 square foot outdoor extreme skate park.

For a leisurely experience, engage in a round of mini golf or find excitement in the arcade.

11. Go Stargazing with The Von Braun Astronomical Society

Established in 1954 as the Rocket City Astronomical Association, the Von Braun Society has evolved into a premier institution with an observatory, solar telescope, and planetarium.

Located in Monte Sano State Park, just beyond Huntsville, this society collaborates with the local community to organize "Concerts in the Park" events.

On Saturdays, they invite the public to enjoy a captivating planetarium show at 7:30 PM, accompanied by a range of other astronomical events, including great sky-gazing sessions.

12. Have Dinner at Connors Steak & Seafood

Indulge in an exceptional dining experience at Connors Steak & Seafood, where you can treat your taste buds to the best seafood and steak in Huntsville.

Renowned for their impeccable service, this restaurant earned the esteemed title of the best steakhouse in Alabama by Business Insider in 2015.

Their dedication to providing an outstanding culinary journey extends beyond the state's borders, with the opening of three additional restaurants in Tennessee and Florida.

The restaurant welcomes guests until 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and closes at 10 PM on other days.

13. Party in Palms Nightclub

Get a taste of the fun Huntsville nightlife at Palms Night Club in ****the city's historic Square District.

With the motto "what happens in Palms, stays in Palms," you can trust in the unforgettable party experience offered.

Enjoy a fully stocked bar featuring wines, beers, cocktails, and mixed drinks, while talented DJs and live music performers take the stage, igniting the dancefloor.

Doors open on Friday and Saturday from 9 PM to 2 AM.

14. Enjoy Arcade Games and Pinball Machines at Pints & Pixels

Pints & Pixels offers an impressive selection of craft beers, cocktails, and delectable food options, as well as over 50 vintage arcade games and pinball machines.

They offer great happy hour specials, creating an even more enticing environment for visitors of all ages.

While Pints & Pixels is a fantastic destination suitable for the whole family, it transforms into an exclusively 21 and over bar on weekend evenings.

15. Get Active at Topgolf

Discover TopGolf, Huntsville—a vast entertainment destination boasting a cutting-edge driving range and a stylish lounge where you can enjoy drinks and games.

TopGolf offers an array of enjoyable and competitive golf games, complete with climate-controlled hitting bays that ensure comfort all year round.

Indulge in a chef-inspired menu featuring delectable food and drink options.

With high-definition TVs, a great atmosphere, and knowledgeable staff, everyone is sure to enjoy their TopGolf experience to the fullest.

16. Try Some Tasty Mexican Food at Hops N Guac

Hops N Guac is an enticing destination known for its irresistible Mexican food. Prepare your taste buds for a flavorful journey that will transport you straight to Mexico.

If you're vegan, Hops N Guac is the ideal destination for you, as they offer a variety of tempting vegan options.

In addition to their exceptional Mexican fare, Hops N Guac boasts an impressive selection of ciders and craft beer.

The inviting atmosphere extends to families, as they craft incredible nachos that are sure to delight the little ones.

17. Have Dinner at Cotton Row Restaurant

Nestled within a historic brick building dating back to 1821, Cotton Row Restaurant blends sophistication, coziness, and contemporary American cuisine.

With a commitment to locality and seasonality, the ever-evolving menus at Cotton Row offer a culinary journey that is accompanied by an exquisite selection of wines from Alabama and beyond.

Cotton Row also hosts special events, including delightful Patio Tasting Parties and cooking classes led by the renowned chef James Boyce.

18. Admire the Rooftop Views of Rhythm on Monroe

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rhythm on Monroe, the ultimate destination for dining with a breathtaking view.

Located atop the Von Braun Center, just a short walk away from downtown Huntsville, this rooftop bar offers an enticing array of cocktails, craft beers, and music-inspired cuisine.

Enjoy their daily jam session from 4-6 pm, as well as their happy hour specials on selected drinks and delectable bites.

19. Have a Fun Night at the Fantasy Playhouse Children's Theater

Fantasy Playhouse Children's Theater, established in 1961 by a dedicated group of local parents, has been enchanting young audiences ever since.

This remarkable theater aims to introduce children, aged three and up, to the captivating world of live performances.

With a diverse selection of thrilling productions offered each season, Fantasy Playhouse Children's Theater guarantees a fun-filled evening for all.

FAQs relating to the Fun things to do in Huntsville at night

Let's also look at some FAQs relating to the fun things to do in Huntsville, Alabama, at night

Does Huntsville AL have a nightlife?

Huntsville does offer a nightlife scene, although it may not have the excitement of a big city. There are various bars, pubs, and live music venues where you can enjoy a night out with friends or a fun date night.

What things is Huntsville known for?

Huntsville is known for several notable things.

Huntsville, also called "Rocket city," is renowned for its strong ties to the space industry and is home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, which houses the famous Space Camp.

Additionally, Huntsville is recognized for its leading role in scientific research, as it is home to NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and several high-tech companies.

What does Huntsville AL have to offer?

Huntsville offers a diverse range of attractions and activities.

Apart from its space-related museums and attractions, the city has numerous cultural attractions, such as Veterans Memorial Museum and Harmony Park Safari.

Huntsville is also known for its historic districts, showcasing architectural gems and offering a glimpse into the city's past.

Is Huntsville good for families?

Yes, Huntsville is generally considered a great place for families.

There are numerous family-friendly activities and attractions, such as the Huntsville Botanical Garden, EarlyWorks Children's Museum, and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

The city also provides a safe environment, a strong sense of community, and a range of family-oriented events throughout the year.

Summing Up: The Best Things to Do in Huntsville, AL at Night

Visiting Huntsville, Alabama, offers plenty of exciting experiences for all.

Whether you're seeking live music, culinary delights, cultural experiences, or simply a memorable night out, Huntsville, Alabama has the whole package.

Embrace the vibrant Huntsville nightlife and immerse yourself in the city's friendly and laid-back atmosphere as you explore these 19 unique and fun things to do in Huntsville, AL at night.