News Summary
Southern Living has recognized Huntsville and Birmingham as two of the best cities in the South. Huntsville secured the 19th position for its affordability and vibrant arts scene, while Birmingham ranked 16th, notable for its culinary offerings and downtown development. Charleston, S.C. remains the top city. These awards highlight the unique charm and opportunities found in Alabama’s urban centers.
Huntsville and Birmingham Shine Bright in Southern Living’s Annual Awards
It’s that time of the year again! Southern Living has just unveiled its much-anticipated list of “The South’s Best Cities,” and guess what? Two Alabama cities, Huntsville and Birmingham, have made it onto the vibrant roster! That’s right, folks—these cities are not just pretty places; they are packed with charm, accessibility, and tons of opportunities!
Huntsville: A Hub of Opportunity and Fun at Number 19
First up is Huntsville, coming in at a fantastic 19th place on the list! Southern Living praises the city for its low cost of living, high quality of life, and thriving job market. Can we get a round of applause for that? The secret sauce to Huntsville’s appeal lies in its fantastic local attractions.
Huntsville isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive! With beautiful parks and scenic greenways, there’s no shortage of natural beauty. Families and friends can spend their days visiting the renowned U.S. Space & Rocket Center, getting lost in creativity at the Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, or simply hanging out at any of the local parks. And don’t forget about Campus 805, where you can unwind with a cold brew after a long week!
In the artistic realm, Lowe Mill is something of a gem, housing more than 150 working studios and showcasing 200 artists! Recently, the facility temporarily closed due to a water leak, but it has since reopened. Thank goodness! Their gratitude to the community during the closure demonstrated just how valued and supported the arts scene is. If you haven’t been, get ready to explore the galleries, eateries, and performance venues that make this place a top-notch creative hot spot!
A Creative Vibe: Huntsville’s Murals
Another cool thing about Huntsville is the vibrant art culture that decorates the streets. If you’re searching for a bit of adventure, take a mural hunt around town and discover the beautiful and intricate murals peppered throughout the city. One must-visit destination is the Food Garden, which makes for a perfect backdrop for lovely Instagram snaps!
Don’t forget about Studio 11 Home and Body, situated on the third floor of Lowe Mill. Here, you can find handmade soy wax candles crafted by Amy Houk, whose love for candle-making began over 20 years ago in Hawaii. She has truly brought her creativity to Huntsville, using non-toxic fragrances and pure cotton wicks that not only smell divine but are safe for everyone!
Birmingham: A Culinary Delight at Number 16
Birmingham’s CityWalk is an exciting 30-acre public space that provides fun for all ages. From a dog park that’s perfect for Fido to a playground that captivates the kids, it’s a great place to enjoy some fresh air. Don’t forget the popular skate park, which draws both novice and seasoned skaters alike!
Charleston Remains the Queen of Cities
As we celebrate these wonderful Southern cities, it’s clear that both Huntsville and Birmingham have unique characters and endless opportunities for everyone. From arts and culture to dining and outdoor fun, everything you need is right here in Alabama! So grab your friends and family and consider a visit to witness firsthand what makes these cities some of the best places to be!
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Additional Resources
- Rocket City Now: Lowe Mill Closed Due to Water Leak
- Rocket City Mom: Huntsville Murals
- WHNT: Tell Your Story Nonprofit at Lowe Mill
- Rocket City Now: Lowe Mill’s Cat Lounge Risks Closing
- WAFF: Studio 11 Home and Body at Lowe Mill Now Open
- Wikipedia: Huntsville, Alabama
- Google Search: Huntsville art scene
- Google Scholar: Huntsville Alabama
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Huntsville
- Google News: Huntsville Alabama news
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
