About
The Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment offers an eclectic mix of visual arts, music, performances, and local cuisine.
Housed in a red brick 1901 structure, this sprawling facility connects visitors to visionary artists and Huntsville's past.
While time doesn't permit an extensive history lesson, you can read about the mill's history on its website.
The building initially served as a textile mill during the early 20th century, feeding into Alabama's booming cotton industry. But it wouldn't be until 2001 when entrepreneur Jim Hudson purchased Lowe Mill. His vision was to create a vibrant neighborhood, but this changed when visiting an art retreat in Virginia known as the Torpedo Factory. Inspired by the artists at the facility, he returned to Huntsville determined to duplicate what he saw and experienced.
Jim formed the Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment group in 2006, and the transformation from mill to artist retreat began. Today, the facility boasts more than 150 working studios where visitors meet artists face-to-face, observe their process, and purchase handmade items.
The food and drink options allow you to extend your visit by refueling on-site. You'll find studios serving pizzas with homemade crusts, a dragon-themed cafe, and even BBQ, to list a few. Should you need something different, plenty of nearby restaurants like Blue Plate Cafe and Hildegard's German Cuisine exist.
As if these weren't enough to entice you to visit, the concerts, workshops, and seasonal events will! The schedule rotates, ensuring there's always a reason to return.
Experience Huntsville's creative spirit at the Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. You'll be enlightened, connect with artists, and discover that, as its website boasts, "Art Works Here."
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment: Fun Facts & Cool Features
A fun fact and admirable feature is the facility. The 1901 three-story building is rich with history, as is evident with the brickwork, towering windows, and restored water tower. Such charm adds to a visit where art, community, and history take center stage.
While the list of studios and galleries is impressive, what shines is the interactivity at Lowe Mill. Imagine watching artists and craftspeople work on their trades and having time for questions and answers. Such connectivity bridges gaps between artists and patrons and develops a deeper sense of community.
Another feature that adds to the allure is that the gallery lineup evolves, presenting fresh and thought-provoking pieces throughout the year. No matter when you visit, there's always something new waiting around the corner at Lowe Mill!
Adding to its uniqueness is the outdoor space, home to festivals, seasonal events, and the Outdoor Market. This seasonal favorite is held every Saturday from early May until late October from 11 AM until 4 PM. Should you be vacationing in Huntsville during the Holidays, plan on checking out the Yule Y'all market, water tower lighting, and carol sing-along.
Concerts on the Dock offers family-friendly outdoor live music. Bands and musicians perform on the former loading dock, providing visibility to all concert-goers. These are typically on Friday evenings and are free! Consider catching a show after exploring Rocket City's attractions, like the US Veterans Memorial Museum and the Bridge Street Town Centre.
Last but not least are the classes offered at Lowe Mill. From blacksmithing and pottery to piano lessons and creative kids' art classes, there's something for every aspiring artist.
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment offers an immersive opportunity to connect with art, history, and the local community. You'll walk away refreshed, invigorated, and perhaps with a piece of art you purchased.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Huntsville to Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment:
- Head west on Holmes Avenue NW.
- Turn left onto Triana Boulevard SW and continue for 1.8 miles.
- Turn right onto 9th Avenue SW.
- The destination will appear on the left.
- Address: 2211 Seminole Drive SW, Huntsville, AL 35805.
Local Tips
- Arrive early to secure parking near the main entrance.
- Check the event calendar for live performances and events.
- Sign up for the newsletter for up-to-date information and specials.
- There is an elevator, which makes exploring even easier.
