Make the most of it. Photo: Courtesy of Huntsville Botanical Garden
Galaxy of Lights season is almost here. To make the most of it, be prepared.
The big picture: Axios Huntsville asked Byrd and Sarah Colvert, marketing manager for the garden, how to best plan for and enjoy the Galaxy of Lights.
Zoom in: First, check the calendar. If you're trying to avoid crowds, aim for the days marked "NP," or non-peak. Dates around holidays tend to be the most crowded, Colvert notes.
Pay attention to the labeling: Certain days are designated as walking or driving nights, and also as dog-walking nights.
New this year is the Evergreen Express, which for an extra $5 includes a guided tour by garden tram with complimentary hot chocolate.
Sensory hours are new this year, too, for those with sensory sensitivities. Autism Support of Alabama is providing earplugs or sensory toys.
Buy tickets in advance. Streamline your entry by having your ticket in hand when you arrive.
State of play: Bring a wagon for the kiddos. It can get cold and it's about a mile-and-a-half walk.
Make the most of it. Byrd stresses taking your time, interacting with every feature you can, and just soaking it in.
On average it takes about 60-90 minutes, he said, but to really make the most of it, shoot for closer to two-and-a-half hours.
The bottom line: "It's easy to speed through, because you're in that pace of life already," Colvert said. "(Slow) down, get some hot cocoa, walk, push the buttons ... I feel like that's when you really feel the spirit of Galaxy."
