Downtown Florence thrives with art, eats and shopping

Situated between the beautiful Tennessee River and the University of North Alabama is the vibrant and creative community of Downtown Florence.

Around 40,000 citizens call Florence home, and so many more enjoy the sites, shops, restaurants and history of Downtown Florence daily. From tattoo artists who competed on Ink Master to fashion designers who regularly grace Vogue with elegant garments, Downtown Florence is full of creatives. 

Public art like Graffiti Alley and the Footsteps of Florence (illustrated plaques of significant quotes embedded into the sidewalk of Wilson Park) showcase the artistic talent in the area. With relevant and timely art like the viral Betty White mural, Downtown Florence regularly and proudly encapsulates the creativity of the amazing people in our community. 

With over 30 restaurants and bars, Downtown Florence has something delicious to please the palate of any foodie! The restaurant scene is enhanced by the recent opening of Pimentos, Burgers, Bar and Grill and the upcoming opening of Lost Pizza Co. and Mugshots. From Thai and Sushi to Tex-Mex, Downtown Florence has it all! 

Since January 2020, Downtown Florence has welcomed 13 new businesses to the district. In addition to Pimentos, other new businesses include Stella & Goose, an art studio and gift shop; All the Best, a curated record, gift, and coffee shop: Cottonwood Farm and Grocery, a one-stop-shop for local meats, produce, flowers, and cheeses; and Pickett on Court, an entertainment and event venue. Whether you are searching for a new outfit, a workout regimen, a gift for a friend, a glass of wine, or a delicious meal, you can find exactly what you are looking for in Downtown Florence. A full list of restaurants and a map of many other downtown businesses can be found at https://www.downtownflorencealliance.com/downtown-businesses. 

Local businesses comprise one facet of the culture in Downtown Florence. In addition to amazing businesses that bring life, creativity, and entrepreneurship to the district, many festivals and events have become staples of the area. The W.C. Handy Music Festival occurs each July, (July 22-31, 2022) and the Renaissance Faire occurs in October (October 22-23, 2022). Both of these festivals have brought first time guests, returning visitors, and locals into Downtown Florence. Another great time to visit downtown is during First Fridays Florence, which occurs on the first Friday of each month from April to December. First Fridays Florence is a community favorite makers market that showcases handmade items and local talent. From musical performances to one of a kind gift items, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the family-friendly First Fridays event. 

Just in case you need one more excuse to plan a weekend getaway, the history and sites found in and around Downtown Florence are plentiful. Here are just a few:

• George H. Carroll Lion Habitat – home of Leo III, the live lion mascot of the University of North Alabama (Leo can be seen roaming the outdoor portion of his habitat from dawn to dusk, weather permitting. Please check the Lion Cam for optimal viewing.)
• Pope’s Tavern – local & Civil War history museum
• Florence Indian Mound Museum – Native American history museum and a 43-foot earthen mound
• Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts – a three-building complex that includes art galleries, studio space, classrooms, an outdoor sculpture garden, and ceramic studio
• Wilson Park – a landmark that spans a full block in Downtown Florence and features a fountain in the center
• Rosenbaum House – the only Frank Lloyd Wright designed architecture in the state of Alabama (located a quick two-minute drive from Downtown Florence)

While the musical heritage of the Shoals area began in Downtown Florence, FAME and Muscle Shoals Sound Studios are both located within a 10-minute drive from downtown and are must-see sites of the area. The Alabama Music Hall of Fame is also located in Tuscumbia, a nearby town, that would round out a tourist’s musical experience in the Shoals area.

You can find the perfect getaway accommodations in the heart of Downtown Florence at the Stricklin Hotel, Gunrunner Boutique Hotel, or Hampton Inn Downtown. If you prefer a full-service experience, you may also choose to stay at Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, which is located a short five-minute drive from downtown. 

There is plenty to do and see in Downtown Florence, and I hope that you choose to experience this destination first-hand soon.