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What makes Florence a unique city?
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Florence is the largest city in Lauderdale County, Alabama with a fantastic small town flavor. Packed with attractions and activities for all tastes, Florence offers traditional Southern living at its best.
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What can visitors explore in Florence?
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Explore charming historic districts, world-renowned architectural wonders, beautiful natural scenery, world-class fishing, golf, and award-winning cuisine.
University of North Alabama
Explore a beautiful campus and see live lions on this unique, affordable trip.
© University of North Alabama
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What is the University of North Alabama (UNA)?
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Where is UNA located?
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The university is located on the banks of the Tennessee River.
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Its 130-acre campus is situated in the four-city area known as The Shoals.
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What kind of education does UNA offer?
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UNA provides high-quality education in a variety of fields.
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It attracts students from all over the country.
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Are campus tours available?
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Yes, informative walking tours of the campus are available.
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These tours are led by Admissions Representatives.
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Who can take a campus tour?
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Tours are available to prospective students and history buffs.
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They can be arranged through the admissions office.
1 Harrison Plaza, Florence, AL 35632, 256-765-4608
Frank Lloyd Wright's Rosenbaum House
Admire striking architecture and walk through this unusual home designed by a legend.
© Frank Lloyd Wright's Rosenbaum House
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What is the Rosenbaum House?
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The Rosenbaum House is a single-family home designed by world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
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It was built for Stanley and Mildred Rosenbaum.
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What makes the Rosenbaum House special?
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The house is described as having “unexcelled beauty” and is one of only 26 pre-World War II Usonian houses ever built.
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It is considered one of the best examples of Usonian architecture.
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What are the key features of Usonian design?
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The house incorporates natural materials such as brick, glass, and wood.
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It features horizontal lines to connect the structure with the landscape.
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The design includes flat roofs with overhangs.
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Every room in the home has access to the outside.
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When is the Rosenbaum House open to the public?
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The house is open to visitors from Tuesday through Sunday.
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Are guided tours available?
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Yes, visitors can explore the house on guided tours led by experienced interpreters.
601 Riverview Drive, Florence, AL 35630, 256-718-5050
Deibert Park
Stroll scenic trails and enjoy peaceful outdoor sights on a weekend walk.
© Deibert Park
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What is Deibert Park?
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Deibert Park is a family-oriented park in Florence, designed for both locals and visitors to enjoy.
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Who donated Deibert Park to Florence?
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The park was donated to the town of Florence by Kirk and Lillian Cook-Diebert.
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How large is Deibert Park?
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The park spans 70 picturesque acres.
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What features does Deibert Park offer?
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The park has a network of interpretive walking trails and paths.
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Visitors can enjoy tranquil ponds and water features throughout the park.
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Is there a playground for children?
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Yes, the park includes an exclusive playground for children.
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What other attractions are in Deibert Park?
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The park is home to the Children's Museum of the Shoals.
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The museum offers various educational programs, workshops, and lesson plans for group tours.
W. C. Handy Birthplace, Museum & Library
Discover the Father of the Blues and explore music history in this exciting stop.
© W. C. Handy Birthplace
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What is the W. C. Handy Birthplace, Museum & Library?
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Who was W. C. Handy?
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William Christopher Handy was born in Florence in 1873.
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He became famous for his jazz compositions, including:
- "St. Louis Blues"
- "Memphis Blues"
- "Beale St. Blues"
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What exhibits are in the museum?
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The museum features a wealth of personal memorabilia, papers, and artifacts belonging to W. C. Handy.
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Key exhibits include:
- The piano on which he composed "St. Louis Blues"
- Original sheets of handwritten music
- One of his trumpets
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How can visitors explore the museum?
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Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace.
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Guided tours are available, led by jazz aficionados and music lovers.
620 West College St, Florence, Alabama, 256-760-6434
McFarland Park
Enjoy river views and explore family-friendly outdoor fun with kids of all ages.
© Courtesy of visitflorenceal.com
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What is McFarland Park?
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McFarland Park is one of the crown jewels of Florence, nestled between the Tennessee River and Downtown Florence.
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How large is McFarland Park?
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The park spans 200 acres and features a variety of natural habitats.
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What types of natural habitats can be found in McFarland Park?
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The park includes:
- Tall grass prairies
- Thick woodlands
- Wet stream habitats
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What recreational facilities and activities are available at McFarland Park?
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Visitors can enjoy:
- Paved walking and jogging paths
- Picnic shelters with fireplaces
- Playgrounds
- Soccer and baseball fields
- A floating restaurant and bar
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Does McFarland Park offer camping facilities?
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Yes, the park boasts 60 campsites with modern amenities.
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Are there water-related activities at McFarland Park?
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The park offers:
- A marina and boat slip for launching
- Fishing piers
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What other amenities does McFarland Park provide?
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The park has a driving range for golf enthusiasts.
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What events are held at McFarland Park?
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The park hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including:
- The Bass Masters Fishing Tournament
- The annual Trail of Tears motorcycle ride
200 James M Spain Dr, Florence, AL 35630, 256-760-6416
Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall
Admire a heartfelt tribute and walk along this unusual hand-built stone monument.
© indigo_nifght/stock.adobe.com
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What is the Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall?
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The Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall, also known as the Tom Hendrix Wall, is a stone wall built by Tom Hendrix to honor his Native American great-great-grandmother.
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Why was the Wichahpi Stone Wall built?
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The wall was built to memorialize Tom Hendrix’s great-great-grandmother, who was part of the American Indian removal to Oklahoma.
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It represents her journey back to her Yuchi tribe’s native land after being forcibly relocated following the Indian Removal Act of 1830.
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How long did it take to build the wall?
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Tom Hendrix began building the wall over 30 years ago, dedicating decades to its construction.
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Where do the stones used in the wall come from?
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Most of the stones come from a local quarry.
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Visitors have also donated stones from around the world, including New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and France.
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How significant is the Wichahpi Stone Wall?
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It is currently the largest mortarless wall in the United States.
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Does the wall have any special features?
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Yes, part of the wall includes a tranquil prayer circle, providing a space for quiet meditation and reflection.
River Heritage Park
Relax by fountains and explore easy walking trails with scenic river views.
© River Heritage Park
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What is River Heritage Park?
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River Heritage Park is an urban green space that offers a variety of family-friendly activities and scenic views.
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What views can visitors enjoy at River Heritage Park?
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The park boasts beautiful views of the Tennessee River and Wilson Dam from the base of the Renaissance Tower.
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What activities are available for families?
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The park features a unique water splash pad and interactive fountains, offering a cool respite during the summer months.
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There are picnic shelters and a children’s playground for added family fun.
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Does River Heritage Park host events?
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Yes, the park hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.
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Visitors can also enjoy fountain and light shows.
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Are there any restrictions at the park?
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Yes, skateboards, bicycles, and scooters are prohibited in the park.
10 Hightower Place, Florence, AL, 256-768-2728
Pope's Tavern Museum
Step into Civil War history and discover hidden sights from Alabama’s early days.
© Pope's Tavern Museum
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What is Pope's Tavern Museum?
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Pope's Tavern Museum is one of the oldest buildings in the area and has a rich historical significance.
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It was once a stagecoach stop, tavern, and inn that was used as a hospital by both Confederate and Union forces during the Civil War.
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Where is Pope's Tavern Museum located?
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The museum is located in downtown Florence.
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What does the museum focus on?
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The museum preserves and interprets the history of the site as a historic inn and stagecoach stop.
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It also focuses on the history of Florence and the city's role in the Civil War.
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What can visitors see on the upper floor?
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The upper floor houses an extensive collection of Civil War artifacts, including:
- An extremely rare Kennedy Long Rifle
- A Confederate Colonel’s uniform
- A vertically strung piano – one of only four ever made
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What is displayed on the lower floor?
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The lower floor is decorated with vintage furniture and antiques, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
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Can visitors take a guided tour?
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Yes, visitors can explore the museum on their own or book a guided tour with an interpretive guide.
203 Hermitage Drive, Florence, AL, 256-760-6439
Pickwick Lake
Go boating or fish all day on this affordable and fun outdoor trip.
© Courtesy of Jorg Hackemann - Fotolia.com
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What is Pickwick Lake?
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Pickwick Lake is a reservoir created by the Pickwick Landing Dam.
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It is renowned for its excellent sport fishing areas.
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Where is Pickwick Lake located?
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The lake stretches for 50 miles from the Pickwick Landing Dam in Tennessee to the Wilson Dam in Florence.
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How large is Pickwick Lake?
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The lake has a 490-mile winding shoreline and covers 47,500 acres of water surface.
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Which state parks are located along Pickwick Lake?
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The lake plays host to two state parks:
- Pickwick Landing State Park in Tennessee
- J P Coleman State Park in Mississippi
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What makes Pickwick Lake popular for fishing?
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The lake is known for its outstanding fishing opportunities, particularly for smallmouth bass.
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One of the most popular fishing areas is the “Shoals” section, located directly downstream of Wilson Dam at the end of Seven-Mile Island.
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What other attractions are found at Pickwick Lake?
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The lake is home to Yellow Creek Cove and the beautiful Yellow Creek Waterfall.
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The waterfall features a rope swing off the top, offering a thrilling adventure for the brave.
Best Time to Visit |
Medium-Priced Places to Stay |
Tips for Exploring |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, great fishing, and blooming landscapes. |
Pickwick Landing State Park Lodge (Counce, TN) – A scenic lakeside retreat with modern amenities. |
Fish for bass and crappie – Spring is one of the best seasons for anglers. |
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm temperatures, perfect for boating and swimming. |
Hampton Inn Pickwick Dam-At Shiloh Falls – A comfortable stay close to the lake and marina. |
Rent a boat or jet ski – Enjoy the beautiful waters and sandy shores of Pickwick Lake. |
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer crowds. |
Stonebrook Inn (Counsel, TN) – A cozy and well-located option near the lake. |
Take a scenic hike at Pickwick Landing State Park – Enjoy vibrant fall colors along the trails. |
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, great for cozy retreats and winter fishing. |
The Generals' Quarters Inn (Nearby Corinth, MS) – A charming B&B with historic charm. |
Explore Shiloh National Military Park – A fascinating historical site just a short drive away. |
Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts
Visit rotating exhibits and admire regional art in a romantic downtown setting.
© Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts
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What is the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts?
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The Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts is an educational facility and arts center dedicated to promoting interest in the arts.
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It encourages participation in cultural activities within the community.
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What facilities does the center offer?
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The center is home to a museum, a gallery, and educational facilities, including:
- Classrooms and studios for showcasing artwork
- A meeting place for cultural groups to gather and discuss art and culture
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What types of exhibits can visitors see?
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The center features annual exhibits by artists from the Southeast.
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It also hosts rotating and traveling exhibits by visiting artists.
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What educational programs are offered?
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The center provides a variety of classes, workshops, lectures, and art-based programs for all ages.
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What events take place at the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts?
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The center hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
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A major annual event is the juried fine arts and crafts festival, known as Arts Alive!.
217 East Tuscaloosa Street, Florence, Alabama 35630, 256-760-6379
Best Time to Visit |
Medium-Priced Places to Stay |
Tips for Exploring |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor festivals. |
The Stricklin Hotel – A boutique hotel with historic charm in downtown Florence. |
Visit the University of North Alabama – Walk the beautiful campus and see the live lion mascots. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, great for exploring the riverfront and music history. |
GunRunner Boutique Hotel – A stylish and modern stay near entertainment and dining. |
Tour the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio – Learn about the legendary recording history of the area. |
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, scenic beauty, and cultural events. |
Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa – A relaxing stay with stunning views of the Tennessee River. |
Attend the W.C. Handy Music Festival – Celebrate the "Father of the Blues" with live performances. |
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and cozy, with festive holiday lights and historic charm. |
Hampton Inn & Suites Florence-Downtown – A convenient and comfortable choice near local attractions. |
Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House – Tour a beautifully preserved architectural masterpiece. |
Map:
Florence, Alabama Weather by Month
Month |
High (°F) |
Low (°F) |
Precip. (in) |
Conditions |
January |
50 |
30 |
4.5 |
Cold |
February |
54 |
33 |
4.0 |
Cold |
March |
65 |
40 |
4.5 |
Mild |
April |
75 |
50 |
4.0 |
Mild |
May |
83 |
58 |
4.5 |
Warm |
June |
90 |
68 |
4.0 |
Hot & Humid |
July |
92 |
70 |
4.5 |
Hot & Humid |
August |
90 |
68 |
4.0 |
Hot & Humid |
September |
83 |
58 |
3.5 |
Warm |
October |
72 |
45 |
3.0 |
Mild |
November |
58 |
35 |
3.5 |
Cool |
December |
50 |
30 |
4.0 |
Cold |
Plan Your Trip
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