If you are like me then you are keenly and unsurprisingly aware that National Donut Day is June 4. These sweet pastries can make any day brighter, offering a sense of community and comfort. When it comes to donuts, I am personally picky and I cannot just eat ANY donut! I know there are others out there who agree with this sentiment. Therefore, I LOVED getting the chance to put together a small tour of my three favorite local spots for delicious donuts in the Rocket City. I was lucky enough to be able to check out The Donut Hole, Big Foot’s Little Donuts, and Daylight Donuts throughout my week-long donut extravaganza.
June 4 lands on a Friday this year, so what better way to kick off the weekend than with a dozen of the finest pastry confections. Donut see your favorite place on my list? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram – @mandypandadreams. I always love a good recommendation and adventure! If you stick through to the end, I will even give you my favorite donut place from my most recent beach vacation at Panama City Beach. I know many people near and far who LOVE PCB, so definitely consider adding my secret spot to your list as well.
The Donut Hole
The first stop on my Dreamy Donut Tour (because that is the official name of this donut show by the way), is Huntsville’s locally owned and classic The Donut Hole on University Drive. Upon inspecting the unassuming box of donuts, one will notice it’s hand – stamped with the slogan “Serving Nana’s Smile since 1985,” so you KNOW it is GOOD! I always go for the eccentric, fun looking donuts so I was EXCITED to find they offered just that (in addition to the classics). Maybe you are vegan? The Donut Hole has thought of you, too! They offered a whole tray of vegan options, including the Vegan Lavender Donut. Honestly, you cannot even taste the difference in my opinion! I also taste tested the chocolate caramel, the Oreo, and the Fruity Pebbles Donuts. I will just say you will NOT be disappointed! Definitely support the Donut Hole if you can!
Big Foot's Little Donuts
The second location I visited is the one and only Big Foot’s Little Donuts. The irony in this location is that the loveable mascot is Sasquatch, or BIG FOOT, while the donuts themselves are actual tiny donut holes. This idea is so cute, and I always love a good photo opportunity (both locations have a Big Foot in the lobby!). Big Foot’s even offers merchandise – from shirts to socks, hats, and stickers. I personally had to pick up a sticker to add to my collection! Their menu is ever changing and evolving, so follow them on Instagram to keep up with their most recent additions – @bigfoots_little_donuts. I love that they always keep the flavors new and exciting, and the donuts are always perfect. The day I visited Big Foot’s, I chose their special Banana Pudding donuts. I did not realize upon first bite that I would be developing an addiction (totally a joke. Maybe). Thankfully, they have two locations! One location is in Madison, while their other is in South Huntsville, so no matter what side of town you are on you can always get your Big Foot’s Little Donuts!
Daylight Donuts
The third stop on my Dreamy Donut Tour, is the popular Daylight Donuts. If you ever pass a Daylight Donuts, you have to stop in and check out their delicious array of sweet and savory treats. I love humble locations and while Daylight is small, it offers big flavors with their donuts (and kolaches, but that is for another blog). While here, I decided to go for the classic strawberry glazed donut, and was not disappointed as usual. They also offer donut holes, bear claws, eclairs, specialty donuts, and other classics. Daylight also sells coffee, which is the perfect addition to any donut. I love Daylight Donuts, because they are better than your average chain donut shop, and they are consistently great no matter what location you visit in Huntsville or Madison.
My Favorite Donut Spot at the beach –
Thomas Donut and Snack Shop
If you have made it this far in my article, congratulations you have unlocked my favorite Donut spot in Panama City Beach, Florida. I know many people in Huntsville love vacationing down at PCB, and if you will be down there this summer you simply must visit Thomas Donut and Snack Shop on Front Beach Road. Just a warning, there is always a line wrapped around outside the building. Thomas’ is a modest location, and is right across the street from the beach. The food is so good, but they are really known for their donuts. You have to order donuts standing outside, and their big window display is tantalizing to say the least. My favorite donut from this location is the chocolate maple bacon donut, because of the sweet and savory factor. We hit this location every time we visit PCB, so maybe now you and your family can try the delicious and famous donuts that come in a pink box.
Mandy Panda is a Huntsville native, who has a passion for fun, adventure, and living life to the fullest. She can be found gallivanting around Huntsville with her five year old daughter or her friends! Mandy holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from The University of Alabama in Huntsville. She is also a life loyal alumnae member of the sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi. Mandy was recently featured as the first Voice of Huntsville for The Scout Guide in December 2020. In her spare time, Mandy loves to hangout with family and friends, go on nature walks, paint, or play her ukulele. Be sure to follow her adventures on Instagram and YouTube!
I love it! So many great options and some that I still need to try! Thanks you so much for my new favorite spot!
Can’t wait to try some of these next time we’re home!!!
I love doughnuts ! Thanks for the reviews. I have wanted to visit Big Foot’s Little Donuts! Since it’s National Donut Day, I have to go now!
Looking forward to trying some of these places. Thanks for the spotlights on these local spots!!!