Lucky Duck in Huntsville

As I enter into the first major city of Alabama, I make a brief visit to the Visitor Center, a great reference point in any major city. Most of the time, I learn about the more obscure places to visit, and the cool places locals eat and hang. To start our day in Huntsville, nicknamed "Rocket City,” how about a duck hunt? As I depart the center, I follow the instructions of the staff looking to the visitor center sign. There she is, 1 of 14 - Lucky Duck.

As I begin the hunt, I am informed I will take over 3000 steps covering 2 1/2 miles of the city searching for these brass ducks.  In my hand I have a "clue card" describing all the locations.  I am told if I am able to find ALL the ducks, I will receive a free gift.  Fourteen ducks later I am proud to say, "I own a Rubber Ducky!"  So much fun and so creative!

Before I blast off to the Huntsville Space and Rocket Center, I stop by Noccalula Falls to experience a tragic love story.

According to legend, a young Cherokee Indian Chief's daughter was in love with a local boy. Her father insisted that she marry someone outside of the tribe. On the wedding day, the heart-broken daughter snuck away, heading towards the falls. When her father found her, she looked at him, with tears in her eyes and leaped to her death. Her name will always be remembered - Noccalula - Noccalula Falls. This monument was built by local school kids collecting pennies, wanting to honor her for eternity. Wow, in so many ways!

From miles around you can see the massive U.S. rockets pointing to space.  The U.S Space and Rocket Center is the 2nd largest research park in our country.  This Smithsonian affiliate stages one of the largest collections of rockets and space stuff for the public to experience. 

It was a full day of exhilarating, adrenaline pumping fun. Weaving in and out of rooms full or our space exploration past, present and future. An amazing closing of my day in Huntsville.

My Rubber Space Shuttle Duckie is proudly soaring in my shower within my home on wheels.  Another day of creating wonderful memories in Alabama!