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Harrison Brothers Hardware

4.7
·293 reviews·Huntsville, United States

Alabama's oldest hardware store, now a historic landmark featuring local art, nostalgic gifts, and a museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

CrowdLow
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Orbs from ghost walk

Harrison Brothers Hardware

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Alabama's oldest hardware store, now a historic landmark featuring local art, nostalgic gifts, and a museum.

4.7
(293 reviews)

"Feels like you're walking back in time with original fixtures and a fun, local art gallery."

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Time Travel Experience

Feel like you're walking back in time with original fixtures and memorabilia.

🎁 Unique Local Gifts

Find handcrafted items, regional art, and Huntsville-themed souvenirs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Charm

Historic Charm

Explore a 19th-century landmark with original fixtures, evoking a sense of stepping back in time.

Instagram
Local Art & Gifts

Local Art & Gifts

Browse a curated selection of regional artists' work, handmade crafts, and unique Huntsville-themed souvenirs.

Instagram
Historic Huntsville Museum

Historic Huntsville Museum

Discover rotating exhibits showcasing local history and artifacts, offering a deeper dive into the city's past.

Instagram
Nostalgic Finds

Nostalgic Finds

Uncover classic toys, candies, and kitchen items reminiscent of yesteryear, perfect for unique gifts.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

Experience Alabama's oldest continuously operating hardware store, established in 1879. It's a living museum with original fixtures, offering a unique blend of history, local art, and nostalgic gifts. Instagram

More Than Just Hardware

Discover a dual experience: one side showcases regional art and handmade crafts, while the other houses the Historic Huntsville Museum with rotating exhibits. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Crowd
Low
When
Holiday season
Why
Festive decor & unique gifts
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Alabama’s oldest continuously operating hardware store was established in 1879 and has been located on the Square in Huntsville since 1897. Harrison Brothers Hardware is like a living museum housed in a 19th century landmark building which retains its original fixtures. Choose from hardware, paint, candy and toys of yesteryear including an entire wall of marbles! There’s gourmet foods, books g...
hike_explore_recharge
0 likes • 1.8K views

⏳ Time Travel Experience

Feel like you're walking back in time with original fixtures and memorabilia. InstagramReddit

🎁 Unique Local Gifts

Find handcrafted items, regional art, and Huntsville-themed souvenirs. InstagramReddit

You know Harrison Brothers Hardware for their unique gifts and historic charm—but did you know while one side of the store features regional and local artists and their handmade wares, the other side is home to the Historic Huntsville Museum, showcasing historical artifacts and rotating exhibits? 🖼️📚✨ Located on the square in downtown Huntsville, this shop offers more than just shopping—it’s a bl...
visithuntsvilleal
49 likes • 3.2K views
Harrison Brothers Hardware has been a Huntsville institution since 1894. It's a great place to find locally made art and gifts #STEHuntsville #travel #huntsville #alabama #ihearthsv #huntsvilleal #explorehuntsville #explorehsv #hsv #thisisalabama #sweethomealabama #visitnorthal #igalabama #alabamathebeautiful #travelsouth #travelthesouth #rocketcity #huntsvillehistory #harrisonbrothershardware
paigemindsthegap
63 likes • 2.4K views

🤫 Quiet Browsing

A peaceful atmosphere, but perhaps not ideal for very young, energetic children. Reddit

💰 Cash Register Fun

See the original cash register still in use when paying with cash! Reddit

Happy National Waffle Day!!! Pick up a bag or two of Wafel-Bitte, LLC mix at the following locations: Daisy Lane Gifts County Line Road, Madison, AL Harrison Brothers Hardware On the Square, Huntsville, AL Star Super Market - Huntsville Five Points, Huntsville, AL Alabama Goods Carl T. Jones, Huntsville, AL STACH & CO. Albertville, AL Ashley Mercantile Cullman and Muscle Shoals, AL Son's of Arley ...
wafelbitte
25 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Time Travel Experience

Feel like you're walking back in time with original fixtures and memorabilia. InstagramReddit

🎁 Unique Local Gifts

Find handcrafted items, regional art, and Huntsville-themed souvenirs. InstagramReddit

🤫 Quiet Browsing

A peaceful atmosphere, but perhaps not ideal for very young, energetic children. Reddit

💰 Cash Register Fun

See the original cash register still in use when paying with cash! Reddit

☕ Local Flavors

Discover local food products like Wafel-Bitte mix and Epicurious Infusions. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(293 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Harrison Brothers Hardware for its unique historical charm and eclectic mix of local art and nostalgic gifts. Many appreciate the well-preserved original fixtures and the opportunity to step back in time. While generally a positive experience, some note that the tight aisles and quiet atmosphere might not be ideal for very young children.

"Feels like you're walking back in time. The walls are filled with stuff that was for sale here many decades ago when it was still a hardware store and not a gift shop. Fun, local art gallery in there too."

Steven Brothers

"Really unique shop with the original cabinets on the wall. When paying with cash the store still uses it's original cash register. Staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. Cool little place to stop in when you're in the area. Not ideal for small children. It's very quiet in the store and aisles are tight."

Georgia G

"Nice old hardware store they sale now local art and stuff, They sale real marble like the old time. Nice to visit"

Miriam Zaga

What People Like

Historic atmosphere
Local art and crafts
Nostalgic items

What People Dislike

Tight aisles for kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Harrison Brothers Hardware is located on the Square in downtown Huntsville, Alabama. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk if they are already exploring the downtown area. Instagram+1

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in downtown Huntsville, near the Square. Check local signage for rates and restrictions. Instagram

If you are staying in or visiting other attractions in downtown Huntsville, walking to Harrison Brothers Hardware is a great option. It's centrally located on the Square. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Harrison Brothers Hardware is free. It operates as a retail store and museum, so you can browse and explore without purchasing a ticket. Instagram

Opening hours can vary, but generally, the store is open during regular business hours on weekdays and Saturdays. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Instagram

The Historic Huntsville Museum section within Harrison Brothers Hardware is part of the overall store experience and does not have a separate admission fee. Instagram

Absolutely! Harrison Brothers Hardware is a retail store selling a wide variety of local art, crafts, gifts, nostalgic toys, and more. Instagram+1

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Exhibits

You can find a diverse range of products including regional art, handmade crafts, unique gifts, classic toys, candies, kitchenware, and Huntsville-themed merchandise. Instagram+2

Yes, the store houses the Historic Huntsville Museum which features rotating exhibits. A notable recent exhibit was 'Brick by Brick,' celebrating Black builders. Instagram+1

Harrison Brothers Hardware is a prime spot for locally made arts and crafts. Other places to explore for local goods include Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment. InstagramReddit

Yes, they carry some specialty food items like Wafel-Bitte mix and infusion kits from Epicurious Infusions, perfect for foodies or as unique gifts. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, allowing you to capture the historic charm and unique merchandise. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other shoppers and staff. Instagram

The original vintage fixtures, the eclectic mix of merchandise, the local art displays, and the historic building itself offer numerous photo opportunities. The holiday window displays are also particularly photogenic. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Harrison Brothers Hardware offers a fascinating glimpse into history and unique items, it might not be ideal for very young, energetic children. The aisles can be tight, and the atmosphere is generally quiet, making it more suited for families with older children or those who appreciate a more subdued exploration. Reddit However, the selection of classic toys and candies can be a hit with kids, offering a fun way to experience a bit of nostalgia. Instagram Parents can use the visit as an opportunity to discuss local history and the importance of supporting small businesses. Instagram

🎁 Gift Shoppers

Harrison Brothers Hardware is a goldmine for unique and thoughtful gifts. You'll find a curated selection of locally made art, handmade crafts, and Huntsville-themed souvenirs that are far more distinctive than typical tourist fare. Instagram+1 The store also excels in nostalgic items, such as classic toys and old-fashioned candies, perfect for surprising someone with a trip down memory lane. Instagram For the foodies in your life, consider picking up specialty items like baking mixes or infusion kits. Instagram+1 The friendly staff can help you find the perfect item for any occasion. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by local history, Harrison Brothers Hardware is a must-visit. As Alabama's oldest continuously operating hardware store, its 19th-century landmark building and original fixtures offer an immersive historical experience. InstagramReddit The Historic Huntsville Museum within the store provides deeper insights with its rotating exhibits on the city's past. Instagram Don't miss the chance to learn about significant local figures and events, such as the 'Brick by Brick' exhibit celebrating influential Black builders. Instagram It's a place where history is not just displayed but actively preserved and shared. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Harrison Brothers Hardware is more than just a store; it's a portal to Huntsville's past. Established in 1879 and operating on the Square since 1897, it holds the distinction of being Alabama's oldest continuously operating hardware store. Instagram The building itself is a landmark, retaining its original 19th-century fixtures, which transport visitors back in time. Reddit This historical ambiance is a major draw, making it feel like a living museum where every shelf and display tells a story. Reddit

Beyond its hardware roots, the store has evolved into a vibrant hub for local culture. One side is dedicated to showcasing the talents of regional artists and artisans, offering a diverse array of handmade wares. Instagram+1 The other side houses the Historic Huntsville Museum, which features rotating exhibits that delve into the city's rich history, providing educational and engaging content for visitors. Instagram This dual nature ensures there's something for everyone, from history buffs to art enthusiasts.

Recent exhibits, like the 'Brick by Brick' showcase highlighting influential Black builders Henderson and Daniel Brandon, demonstrate the store's commitment to telling diverse and impactful local stories. Instagram This dedication to preserving and sharing Huntsville's heritage, combined with its unique retail offerings, makes Harrison Brothers Hardware a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic local experience. Instagram

The Art and Soul of Huntsville

Harrison Brothers Hardware has become a beloved destination for discovering local art and unique gifts. The store proudly features a wide selection of works from regional artists and artisans, making it a fantastic place to find one-of-a-kind pieces. Instagram+1 Visitors can explore everything from paintings and pottery to handcrafted jewelry and home decor, all created by talented individuals from the area. Reddit

Beyond fine art, the shop is a treasure trove of nostalgic items. You can find classic toys, old-fashioned candies, and kitchenware that evoke fond memories of yesteryear. Instagram This blend of contemporary local art and timeless nostalgic goods creates a truly eclectic shopping experience. It's the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir or a thoughtful gift that truly represents the spirit of Huntsville. Instagram

Several local food producers also have a presence here, offering items like Wafel-Bitte baking mixes and Epicurious Infusions. Instagram+1 This further solidifies Harrison Brothers Hardware as a central point for experiencing and supporting local craftsmanship and culinary talent. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to share insights about the artists and products, enhancing the overall shopping journey. Reddit

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