Your amazing weekend getaway in Florence—find out our top recommendations

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Bridge of Florence shot — The beauty of Florence/The Shoals is unmatched. (UNA)

I remember the first time I made the drive from Huntsville to Florence. I was amazed by the beauty of the North Alabama landscapes along the way, and when I arrived, I was enthralled by the charm and vibrancy of downtown Florence.

Because it’s tucked away from major interstates, Florence has maintained a slow, thoughtful growth. It feels like a piece of history stuck in time yet wrapped up in innovation all at once.

Between its famous music scene, gorgeous scenery and top restaurants, the Florence area makes for the perfect weekend trip from Huntsville. Check out our top 4 recommendations.

1. Start with the heart of the city

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 originally 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.

If you want to learn more about this historic university and campus traditions like the Lucky Dip, mark your calendar for these preview dates:

September 14, 9AM
October 7, 9AM
November 2, 9AM
View the full schedule.
Pro tip: Make sure to catch a football game while you’re there! It’s the best chance to get a taste of the fun campus life.

2. Explore the local music scene

Alabama Music Hall of Fame in Florence—visit on a weekend getaway in Florence — Alabama Music Hall of Fame. (Florence Tourism)

FAME Recording Studios. — Alabama Music Hall of Fame. (Florence Tourism)

After getting to know the heartbeat of Florence, your next step is to learn its rhythm. Florence has one of the top music scenes around, and many famous artists—like W.C. Handy, Sam Phillips and Strange Waves—trace their roots back to this North Alabama gem.

Make sure to tour the renowned recording studios:

Alabama Music Hall of Fame: Open Tuesday-Saturday, this is a must-see for music lovers.
Cypress Moon Studios: This multi-studio complex brought in acts like Bob Dylan, Julian Lennon, Bob Seger, Steve Winwood and more. Open Monday-Saturday.
FAME Recording Studios: Tour the place where Aretha Franklin, Etta James and others recorded. Open Monday-Saturday.
Muscle Shoals Sound: Did you know Lana Del Rey recently recorded here? Studio tours available Tuesday-Saturday.
W.C. Handy Home + Museum: Tour the two-room shotgun house and learn all about the “Father of the Blues.” Open Tuesday-Saturday.

Exceptional Education at The University of North Alabama

3. Dine at unique + locally-owned restaurants

Steak frites from Odette in downtown Florence. (Florence Tourism)

Incredible view from 360 Grille. — Steak frites from Odette in downtown Florence. (Florence Tourism)

If you consider yourself a foodie, you’re going to love the dining experiences during your weekend getaway in Florence. Check out our top picks:

Elegant dinner with a view—360 Grille: Featuring the best view in Florence, 360 Grille offers an amazing wine selection and is perfect for enjoying upscale seafood and steak dishes.
All around just can’t go wrong—Odette: A rustic chic bistro, Odette is known for its weekend brunch, classy dinner service, and to-die-for desserts like creme brûlée and cheesecake.
Perfect for small bites—The Carriage Wine Bar: If you’re looking for a small bite to eat or a place to cool down after the day, stop by The Carriage Wine Bar for charcuterie and vino.
Out-of-the-box flavors: Yumm Thai Sushi + Beyond: Attention all Thai food lovers—you have to try the Beef Noodle Bowl and Spring Rolls here.

4. Get adventurous + enjoy gorgeous landscapes

Hiking in Florence, AL — Florence Marina. (Florence Tourism)

As summer is turning into fall, it’s the perfect time to enjoy all your favorite outdoor activities, and there’s no better place to do it than Florence. Check out our location recommendations:

Fishing: You’re in lake paradise with access to Lakes Pickwick, Wilson + Wheeler.
Kayaking: The best kayak runs around can be found at Bluewater Creek, Wildwood Park + Cypress Creek.
Hiking: You can’t go wrong with Cane Creek Canyon Preserve, Rock Springs Nature Trail, Sipsey Wilderness + Bankhead National Forest.
BONUS: Check out the North Alabama Birding Trail spots around Florence! View the map.

Mark these UNA preview dates on your calendar

Are you excited for your next weekend getaway to Florence? Make sure to pair it with one of UNA’s upcoming preview days to get the most out of your experience: