Florence, Alabama is a vibrant city located in the northwest corner of the state. With its rich history and many attractions, this small town offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, there’s something to do in Florence that will fit your interests. Here are some of the best things to do while visiting Florence.
Guides on what Florence is best known for
Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall
1. Visit Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall – This unique wall was built by Native Americans as part of their spiritual pilgrimage route known as “The Trail of Tears” during the 1830s forced relocation from their homelands in Georgia and Tennessee to Oklahoma territory. The commemorative stone wall serves as a reminder of those who suffered on this journey and honors them with an annual remembrance ceremony every May at nearby McFarland Park.
Wilson Park
2. Explore Historic Downtown Florence – Take a stroll down Court Street where you can explore antique shops, art galleries, boutiques, restaurants and other local businesses housed within historic buildings dating back to the late 1800s when Florence was established as a railroad hub connecting Memphis and Birmingham via railroads from Atlanta to Nashville. Stop by Wilson Park for scenic views along the riverfront parkway before heading over to Town Creek Indian Mound State Historical Site which features preserved mounds from ancient indigenous cultures dating back centuries ago!
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
3. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures – If you’re looking for outdoor activities, head over to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge or Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge where visitors can enjoy wildlife watching opportunities such as birding or fishing in seasonally stocked lakes full of catfish and bass fish varieties! You can also rent kayaks or paddleboats at Joe Wheeler State Park Marina if you want get out on Lake Wheeler itself – perfect for swimming too – plus miles upon miles trails perfect for hiking & biking!
Rosenbaum House Museum
4. Learn About Local History– Spend some time learning about local history at any one (or all!) four museums around town like Rosenbaum House Museum & Gallery showcasing works from regional artists; The Kennedy-Douglass Center For Arts showcasing fine arts exhibitions; The Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House offering guided tours through this iconic home designed by Wright himself; And lastly don’t forget about Muscle Shoals Sound Studio where famous musicians have recorded music since 1969 like Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” among others!
Why Visit Florence, Alabama
Florence, Alabama is a city located in Lauderdale County and part of the Florence-Muscle Shoals Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is situated along the banks of the Tennessee River and has a population of approximately 40,000 people. Florence has been known as “The Renaissance City” for its cultural offerings including numerous art galleries, music venues, museums, and historical sites.
The area was first inhabited by Native Americans who were attracted to its abundant natural resources such as fish from the river and game from nearby forests. In 1818, John Coffee established an Indian trading post on what would become modern day Florence. The city was later incorporated in 1826 with just 300 residents at that time but it quickly grew due to its location near water transportation routes. By 1860 there were nearly 2200 citizens living in Florence making it one of the largest cities in north Alabama at that time period.
During World War II many military personnel trained here which helped increase employment opportunities for locals while also solidifying Florence’s place as a hub for industry and commerce within the state. During this period many manufacturing plants opened up resulting in rapid economic growth throughout much of 20th century until recent years when several plants have shut down or moved away leaving behind empty factories and warehouses throughout town today.
Despite these changes Florence still remains vibrant culturally with plenty to offer visitors year round such as concerts at WOW Hall featuring both local acts and international stars; festivals like MusicFest celebrating all genres of music; outdoor activities like hiking trails through historic neighborhoods or kayaking downriver; plus attractions like Ivy Green where Helen Keller experienced her breakthrough moment learning sign language from Anne Sullivan—all make this small town worth exploring!
In addition to arts & culture there are plenty other reasons why people visit or live here such as access to quality healthcare services provided by Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital (ECMH) which offers comprehensive medical care for patients ranging from children/infants all way up through elderly adults; excellent education options available through University Of North Alabama (UNA); plus great recreational sports leagues offered by community organizations like YMCA — all helping foster a strong sense of pride among those who call this place home!
Doe Bay Resort