Local Guide

Couples from nearby cities like Huntsville and Nashville love how easy it is to make a full weekend out of their celebration—close enough for convenience, yet just far enough away to feel like a true destination.

Check out our interactive map to see every location mentioned on this page—from on-site lodging and local restaurants to salons, shopping spots, day trips, and must-see attractions.

You can save it, share it with your guests, and use it as a go-to planning tool for your wedding weekend or visit to The Lofton. ✨

@hvilleblast ✨ A DAY IN DOWNTOWN ATHENS, AL 🖼 We love afternoons in nearby downtowns like Athens—from art to antiques, there’s so much to enjoy! #athens #athensalabama #athensal #downtownathensalabama #downtownathensal #dayinthelife ♬ Beach Day – Plastic Ruby

Downtown Athens blends small-town Southern charm with walkable streets, local boutiques, and cozy cafés—perfect for a relaxed afternoon of shopping or grabbing lunch between wedding festivities.

Spend a few hours exploring the historic square, browsing antique shops, or stopping for ice cream before heading back to The Lofton!

Lodging in Athens, Alabama

• Hampton Inn & Suites Athens – Comfortable rooms with a complimentary hot breakfast
• Comfort Inn – Affordable, with convenient access to local attractions
• Holiday Inn Express Athens – Modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Athens – Stylish rooms with free breakfast and an outdoor pool
• Best Western Athens – A reliable choice offering comfort and great service
• Home2 Suites – This brand-new location is designed for comfort and convenience, making it an excellent choice for longer visits or short stays

Chain Dining & Shopping in Athens

Walmart, Publix, Ross, T.J.Maxx, Rack Room Shoes, Ulta Beauty, Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, Zaxby’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, Subway, KFC, Applebee’s, Steak Out, Whataburger, Chicken Salad Chick, Firehouse Subs, Buffalo Wild Wings, Cracker Barrel, Logan’s, and so much more!

Downtown Athens Shopping & Boutiques

• The Shoppes at Athens – A mix of retail stores and boutiques for all your shopping needs
• Athens Main Street – A quaint, historic area with local boutiques, gift shops, and antique stores
• Boutique Bliss
• Crawford’s Gifts
• Pimento’s

Bridal Stores Around The Square

• Bennett’s – Men’s attire
• Bridal by Morgan – Women’s & men’s formalwear
• Shepherds Clothiers – Men’s attire (located inside Bridal by Morgan)

Local Athens Restaurants & Entertainment

Ro’s Grille, Village Pizza, Lucia’s Cocina Mexicana, Alehouse & Cellar, 306 BBQ, Lawler’s BBQ, Mozza Pizza & Bar, The Salty Cod, Washington Street Diner, Lil Mazzara’s, Ole Black Bear Brewing, Kreme Delite, Iron’s & Ales (Indoor Golf)

@hsvgarden 🌿 Free Admission Friday! 🌿 In honor of National Public Gardens Day, we’re celebrating BIG—with free admission for everyone on Friday, May 9 from 9 AM to 8 PM! 🌼✨ Stroll through vibrant garden paths, discover hidden corners, and let nature work its magic. While you’re here, don’t forget to join the American Public Gardens Association’s Photo Scavenger Hunt! 📸 Snap your favorite spring blooms, share them on social media using the hashtags #GoPublicGardensDays and #GoPublicGardens, and be part of a nationwide celebration of the beauty and wonder that public gardens bring to our lives. Visit hsvbg.org/calendar for more information! 🎯 Explore. 📷 Snap. 🌎 Share. Let the Garden be your playground for discovery and connection. 📅 Friday, May 9 | 🕘 9 AM – 8 PM | 💚 Free for All #HBGarden #NationalPublicGardensDay #PublicGardensMonth #GardenScavengerHunt #ExploreHBG #NatureEscape #HuntsvilleAL #NaturallyDelightful #HSVgarden ♬ ‘Bout It – JMSN

Shopping

• Bridge Street Town Centre
  365 The Brg St NW, Huntsville, AL 35806
  A premier shopping destination offering retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment options

• Huntsville’s Parkway Place Mall
  2801 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
  A major mall featuring well-known retailers and dining options

• The Shops at Merchants Walk
  2400 Commerce Ct SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
  A collection of unique shops, boutiques, and dining in a charming outdoor setting

• Clift Farm – Located near Huntsville at 419 John Henry Way, Madison, AL 35757
  Features local artisan shops with handcrafted goods and a selection of local produce and items

MidCity Huntsville Highlights

• The Camp at MidCity – A vibrant outdoor space with food trucks, green space, live music, and casual vibes
• Topgolf Huntsville – High-tech driving ranges and games, food, and drinks—fun for all skill levels
• MidCity Retail and Dining – A range of shopping and dining, including trendy boutiques, local shops, and restaurants
• The Orion Amphitheater – A state-of-the-art outdoor venue for concerts, festivals, and events
• Lowe’s and Publix – Convenience stores for home improvement and groceries
• Pedestrian-Friendly Atmosphere – Walkable design with outdoor seating, wide sidewalks, and scenic spaces
• Punch Bowl Social – Entertainment complex with bowling, karaoke, arcade games, food, and cocktails
• Residential Living – Modern apartments and mixed-use developments ideal for visitors or longer stays
• Outdoor Spaces – MidCity includes parks and green areas for outdoor activities and relaxation

Lodging in Huntsville & Madison

• The Westin Huntsville – Located in Bridge Street, outdoor mall, great for dining, movies, shopping, and nightlife
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Huntsville – Village of Providence
• Embassy Suites by Hilton
• Huntsville Marriott at The Space & Rocket Center – Close to HSV airport
• 106 Jefferson, Curio Collection by Hilton – Right in downtown city nightlife
• Drury Inn & Suites Huntsville at The Space & Rocket Center – Close to HSV airport
• Four Points by Sheraton – Located at HSV airport

Restaurants in Huntsville & Madison

• Cotton Row – Upscale American cuisine with a contemporary twist in a beautiful historic setting
• Commerce Kitchen – A southern-style restaurant offering hearty, flavorful dishes like fried chicken and grits
• The Bottle – Known for craft beer, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere

Other nearby dining includes:

Maple Street Biscuit Company, Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, Five Guys, Cava, Nothing Bundt Cake, Culver’s, Jonathan’s Grille, Steam Boys, Chuck’s Fish House, Stoney River Steakhouse & Grille, and so much more!

Entertainment & Attractions

• U.S. Space & Rocket Center
  1 Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805
  One of the country’s top space museums, showcasing rockets, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits

• Monte Sano State Park
  5105 SE Nolen Ave, Huntsville, AL 35801
  A beautiful park offering hiking, biking, and picnicking with stunning mountain views

• Huntsville Botanical Garden
  4747 Bob Wallace Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35805
  A peaceful garden offering beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and seasonal exhibits

• Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
  2211 Seminole Dr SW, Huntsville, AL 35805
  A former cotton mill turned arts venue offering galleries, performances, and workshops

• Twickenham Historic District
  Huntsville, AL 35801
  Stroll through Huntsville’s oldest neighborhood with preserved 19th-century homes and stunning architecture

• Huntsville Museum of Art
  300 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
  Features a diverse collection of American and Southern art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. The museum hosts rotating exhibits, educational programs, and cultural events.

• More things to do: Topgolf, Dave & Buster’s, Stove House, Hangout at Campus 805, The Monaco, Huntsville Escape Rooms, Ice Plex, Axe Throwing

Top Attractions

From live music and art to history and Southern flavor, these Nashville attractions offer something for every guest to enjoy.

• The Grand Ole Opry
  This iconic venue has hosted some of the biggest names in country music. A must-visit for anyone interested in the roots of American music, it still hosts live performances and radio broadcasts that showcase both legends and rising talent.

• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
  A treasure trove of country music history featuring exhibits on famous artists, the evolution of the genre, and memorabilia spanning decades. A deep dive into the legacy and influence of country music.

• Ryman Auditorium
  Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” this historic venue has hosted legends like Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and Dolly Parton. Still active today, it’s a popular tour and concert destination.

• Broadway Street
  The heart of Nashville’s nightlife. This buzzing street is lined with honky-tonks, bars, and live music venues where you’ll hear country hits and rising stars every night of the week.

• The Parthenon
  Located in Centennial Park, this full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon is both a striking landmark and an art museum. A must-see for history lovers and architecture fans.

• Johnny Cash Museum
  Dedicated to the life and legacy of Johnny Cash, this museum features rare artifacts, personal items, stage costumes, and videos that tell the story of the Man in Black.

• Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
  A family-friendly destination with a wide variety of animals, educational exhibits, and large playground areas. Perfect for kids and adults alike.

• Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
  A peaceful and picturesque escape offering art exhibits, seasonal gardens, walking trails, and a stunning historic mansion. Ideal for a leisurely, scenic day.

• The Bluebird Café
  A legendary venue where many country artists got their start. This small, intimate setting features live performances by songwriters and musicians—famous and undiscovered alike.

• Nashville’s Music Row
  The heart of the city’s music industry, home to recording studios, publishing houses, and production companies. While most studios are private, the area itself is rich with music history and worth a stroll.

• Lynchburg Distillery
  Located just off the historic downtown square in Lynchburg, Tennessee, Lynchburg Distillery offers a delightful wine-tasting experience. Situated next to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, it’s a perfect stop to enjoy handcrafted wines in a charming setting.

  • Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:30 PM, Sunday: 1:00 PM–5:00 PM

• Big Creek Winery
  Nestled in Pulaski, Tennessee, Big Creek Winery is known for its diverse selection of over 30 grape and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, tastings, and purchase wines to take home.

  • Hours:
    Monday–Wednesday: 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
    Thursday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
    Sunday: 1:00 PM–5:00 PM

• Jack Daniel’s Distillery
  The Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg offers daily tours showcasing the rich history and craftsmanship behind their world-famous Tennessee whiskey.

  • Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (daily)
    Closed: New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

• Tims Ford Lake
  Located in Franklin County, Tennessee, Tims Ford Lake is a 10,700-acre reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. It’s surrounded by Tims Ford State Park, which also offers cabins, picnic areas, and scenic hiking trails.

Huntsville International Airport (HSV)

• Distance: Approximately 25–27 miles
• Driving Time: Around 37–43 minutes
• Route: Take AL-53 N from the airport, continue on US-231 N, and follow TN-7 N into Ardmore
• Closest airport to Ardmore, making it the most convenient option

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)

• Distance: Approximately 111 miles
• Driving Time: Around 1 hour 43 minutes
• Route: Take I-65 N from the airport, continue on I-65 N to Ardmore
• A larger airport with more flight options, but farther from The Lofton

Nashville International Airport (BNA)

• Distance: Approximately 85 miles
• Driving Time: Around 1 hour 28 minutes
• Route: Take I-65 S from the airport, continue on I-65 S to Ardmore
• Offers numerous flight options and is a convenient choice for out-of-town guests