Reviewed by: Lisa Battles
Worth the drive: The ultimate family weekend in Florence
Reading time: 5 minutes
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The leaves are changing soon, and if you’re considering a quick fall family trip, we have the packed itinerary you need.
Check out our 20+ options for spending a family weekend in Florence, just an hour and a half from Huntsville.
👇 WATCH: Join our Florence family on a virtual tour of our tips around town.
1. Taste the flavor of Florence
Florence’s top-notch restaurant scene will transform your family into foodies for the weekend.
- Northwood Social: Located in Seven Points, Northwood offers a cozy atmosphere, craft cocktails and an elevated menu.
- Odette: A rustic chic bistro, Odette is known for its weekend brunch, upscale dinner service and to-die-for desserts like creme brûlée and cheesecake.
- Ricatoni’s: Many people drive in from out of town to Florence just to eat at Ricatoni’s. This iconic restaurant is known for its authentic Italian dishes like chicken alfredo and spaghetti with meatballs. (And the bread dipped in herbed olive oil while you wait.)
- The Carriage Wine Bar: For small bites and a special place to unwind after work, stop by The Carriage Wine Bar for charcuterie and vino.
- Yumm: Attention all Thai food lovers—you have to try the beef noodle bowl and spring rolls here.
2. Tour the first public four-year university in Alabama, UNA
You can’t take a weekend trip without visiting the heartbeat of the city—The University of North Alabama. As the oldest chartered university in the state, UNA opened its doors in 1830.
The university has evolved over the years from primarily being a teachers’ college to now offering incredibly distinct career paths and reaching students globally.
Anyone who’s visited UNA’s campus and downtown Florence will tell you that the two flow together, and you can’t truly understand one without the other.
Check out some quick facts about UNA:
- 10,000+ students
- 200+ programs
- #12 among Top Public Schools in the South
- #11 among Best Colleges for Veterans
- #26 among Regional Universities in the South
If you want to learn more about this historic university and campus traditions like the Lucky Dip, mark your calendar for the next preview date:
- November 7, 9AM | Register now
3. Learn about the “Father of the Blues” + other musical legends
Have any musicians in the family? They’ll be in heaven with Florence’s robust music scene and history.
- Alabama Music Hall of Fame: Open Tuesday-Saturday, this is a must-see for music lovers.
- Muscle Shoals Sound: Did you know Lana Del Rey recently recorded here? Studio tours available Tuesday-Saturday.
- FAME Recording Studios: Tour the place where Aretha Franklin, Etta James and others recorded. Open Monday-Saturday.
- Cypress Moon Studios: This multi-studio complex brought in acts like Bob Dylan, Julian Lennon, Bob Seger, Steve Winwood and more. Open Monday-Saturday.
- W.C. Handy Birthplace, Home & Museum: View the log cabin where the “Father of the Blues” was born in 1873. Plus, you can view personal papers, artifacts and other items he donated before his death in 1958.
4. Browse dozens of local shops
Downtown Florence offers an easy, walkable shopping experience with some of the most unique boutiques and stores in North Alabama.
- Alabama Chanin: Founded by Natalie Chanin, this is not your average designer clothing brand. Alabama Chanin is known for its School of Making and sustainable and ethical clothing.
- Art + More Gallery: Get a sneak peek into the Florence art scene and its exceptionally talented local artists.
- Billy Reid: Check out the home base for the men’s and women’s luxury designer brand, Billy Reid.
- Stella + Goose: Embrace your inner artist by taking classes in painting, ceramics, wood and more. You can also find a gift shop and an art gallery here.
- Reclaimed Spirit: “Dedicated to make your home and life beautiful,” Reclaimed Spirit offers interior design services, candles, gifts and more.
5. Picnic at McFarland Park or Old Railroad Bridge
North Alabama turns into a stunning, colorful landscape during the fall season. Check out when fall foliage will peak and plan a picnic amid all the hues.
If you’re adventurous and love to hike, bike or kayak, check out these four trails:
- Wildwood Park
- McFarland Park
- TVA Reserve
- River Heritage Park
ICMYI: Here’s a complete guide to all four with pro tips + more.
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