Located just **fifteen miles northeast** of the vibrant city of **Huntsville, Alabama**, lies the charming small town of **New Market**. While the population hovers around **1,300**, this delightful enclave has witnessed modest growth over recent years, yet it remains the perfect canvas for **friendly faces** and **warm conversations**—a hallmark of small-town American life.
Why New Market Should Be on Your Radar
There’s an abundance of reasons to fall in love with this quaint town. Here, we’ve narrowed it down to **three must-visit attractions** that showcase what makes New Market so special. Let’s dive in, and we invite you to share your own favorite small town experiences!
1. Indulge in the Rich Barbecue Scene
When it comes to **barbecue**, New Market is anything but ordinary. Our friends at This Is Alabama recently asked their audience about the best barbecue locations in the state, and New Market was a resounding choice! This charming town boasts not **one**, but **two world-class BBQ joints** that are essential stops for any food enthusiast.
- **Ole Hickory BBQ** is famed for its delectable **pulled pork sandwich**, generously topped with sweet slaw and their signature vinegar-based red sauce. Recognized as one of the best in the state, this sandwich is a must-try.
- Meanwhile, **New Market BBQ** will captivate your taste buds with a special **smoked mac and cheese**, so rich and creamy it has earned a place on the Alabama Department of Tourism’s prestigious list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die”. Don’t forget to sample the brisket, a true crowd-pleaser!
2. Explore the Floral Wonderland
New Market is not just about BBQ; it also boasts **breathtaking floral landscapes**. Home to **Hubert Family Farms**, one of North Alabama’s standout attractions, this stunning farm opens its **U-pick tulip gardens** every spring, drawing thousands eager to capture the beauty of blooming tulips. And when autumn rolls around, visitors are equally captivated by extensive rows of sunflowers.
During these seasons, the farm buzzes with activity for families, offering food trucks, live entertainment, and even **hot air balloon rides**. Owned by fourth-generation farmer Seth Hubert and his wife, Kaylee, Hubert Family Farms is a heartwarming testament to Alabama’s agricultural heritage.
**READ MORE:** Pick Your Own Alabama Tulips
3. Discover the Local Loveliness
New Market radiates **charm** in every corner, especially within its **local businesses**. A visit to **Moonpie John’s Mercantile** is a delightful adventure, offering an array of vintage candy, quirky T-shirts, and unique local goods. The on-site cafe boasts a menu featuring exciting dishes such as the **bologna Reuben** and the **Elvis PB&B**, alongside an assortment of Moonpie-inspired desserts that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Next door, you’ll find **1910 Gin**, a lively event space filled with character. Don’t miss **Pickett’s Family Restaurant**, celebrated for its hearty Southern cooking. Make sure to try the biscuits during breakfast; they are simply divine!
In conclusion, **New Market, Alabama**, awaits your discovery—a delightful blend of culinary delights, breathtaking natural beauty, and the nostalgic warmth of small-town charm. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this hidden gem offers unforgettable experiences that seem to linger long after you leave.
