MADISON – Two free, guided tours of downtown Madison will introduce newcomers and remind longtime residents about the interesting background of the community.

What better way to enjoy a spring morning than leisurely walking while listening and learning about people and places of downtown Madison? Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau promotes the free walking tours to show the scenic views in both Madison and Huntsville.

In Madison, the walking tours are scheduled for April 16 and April 23 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Walkers should assemble at the Madison Gazebo on Front Street.

Native Madisonian and city historian Cindi Sanderson will guide the April 16 tour. Gerald Clark, former Madison City Council member, will host on April 23.

During the walk, participants will hear stories about the area’s history and architectural styles of the vintage homes. Some homes in downtown Madison qualify as antebellum, while others were built as turn-of-the-century residences for merchants and business leaders in Madison.

Local experts will lead the tours and focus on the historic districts of both cities. The tours are popular for both visitors and locals. Tickets or reservations are not needed. Participants just need to arrive for the 10 a.m. start time and bring a thirst for historical knowledge.

Leashed pets and strollers for infants are welcome. Comfortable shoes are a good idea, along with water, sunscreen and maybe a light snack. Restrooms will not be available during the tours.

In case of severe weather or heavy rain, the convention bureau will announce cancellations by social media before tour time. The bureau will not schedule rain dates.

In Huntsville, tour dates are April 2 and 9 for Twickenham Historic District. The tour group will depart at 10 a.m. from Alabama Constitution Hall Park, 109 Gates Ave. Tour guides will be Katie Stamps, April 2 and Van Brown, April 9.

For more information, call the Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center at 256-551-2370 or toll-free at 800-SPACE-4-U or visit Info@huntsville.org.