A Day in Downtown for Art Lovers

By Ainsley Hill, DHI Intern

Are you wanting to explore and discover the art scene in Downtown Huntsville? Here are a few places and events for you to do just that. 

Secret Art Trail 
This Downtown Huntsville trail aims to inspire people to explore and discover downtown’s public art, learn about the artists, and take a step off of the beaten path. The Secret Art Trail features 21 eye-catching art stops for you to check out around downtown. You can also grab a purple cup and take a stroll through the downtown Arts & Entertainment District. Click here to print or download your Secret Art Trail card. Peek around corners, peer down alleyways, or simply look up! 

Harrison Brothers Gallery
Harrison Brothers Gallery features more than 50 regional artists whose works are displayed in this historic former hardware store on Courthouse Square. Some gallery offerings include jewelry, basketry, wood, leather, forged metal, and much more. Harrison Brothers now houses the Historic Huntsville Museum, dedicated to sharing Huntsville/Madison County history. “Brick by Brick” is the newest exhibition, a project by the Historic Huntsville Foundation. This exhibition is free to attend inside of Harrison Brothers Hardware. 

Downtown Art Walk
Explore the scene of beautiful Downtown Huntsville on the Courthouse Square. Shop for art, jewelry, decor, treats, and more from over 50 local vendors. Each Downtown Art Walk is free to attend, featuring live music, yard games, and kid friendly activities. The event is in the Arts & Entertainment District, so you can grab a purple cup from a local establishment to sip on while you stroll. The upcoming Art Walk is on Friday, August 16 from 5 to 8 PM and features a special program to celebrate Huntsville’s newest public artwork at 6:30 pm.

Huntsville Museum of Art 
Located next to Big Spring Park, the Huntsville Museum of Art is home to 14 galleries. The museum brings in 3 to 4 traveling exhibits throughout the year, accompanied by regional collections and installations of the museum's own permanent collections. The museum also has an event calendar where you can find many events that they hold throughout the week. The Huntsville Museum of Art is the perfect day activity for you to explore and discover art downtown. 

Lowe Mill 
Lowe Mill is the largest privately owned arts facility in the United States, right here in Huntsville! The arts facility features 152 working studios, 7 galleries, and 200 artists and makers. You are bound to find something that piques your interest with studios ranging from ceramics, graphic design, mixed media, sculpture, and so much more. Take a day and wander the floors of this former cotton mill to discover art in Huntsville.