Explore Florence, Alabama
Florence is in the northwest corner of Alabama. It is on the banks of the Tennessee River, with around 40,000 people as of 2020. The city was founded in 1818 and named after Florence, Italy, by European-American settler John Coffee. Florence grew rapidly in the late 1800s and early 1900s due to the cotton industry, and it was home to many cotton mills and factories. Today, Florence has a diverse economy, including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism. There are many RV rentals in Florence, Alabama to choose from.
The University of North Alabama (UNA) in the center of Florence is one of the city's most famous landmarks. Established in 1830 as LaGrange College, UNA is renowned for its top-notch business, academic, and artistic programs. Florence also has several excellent restaurants. Among the most famous locations is Odette, a fine dining establishment that provides inventive Southern food. Two other popular local establishments include Rivertown Coffee Co., a small café selling specialty coffee drinks and light fare, and Trowbridge's Ice Cream, a local favorite noted for making handcrafted ice cream.
For those who love plants, Florence is also home to the lovely Florence Botanical Gardens. The gardens showcase a range of species from all over the world. The Shoals region, which includes the towns of Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia, is another popular destination near Florence. The Shoals, frequently called the "Hit Recording Capital of the World," is well recognized for its extensive musical heritage. The Rolling Stones, Wilson Pickett, and Aretha Franklin are just a few well-known musicians who have recorded music in this region. Several museums, such as the W.C. Handy Home and Museum and the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, highlight the city's musical heritage. The W.C. Handy Home and Museum pays tribute to the life and legacy of the "Father of the Blues." The Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts hosts regular exhibitions of local and regional artwork.
Best State Parks Near Florence, Alabama
Joe Wheeler State Park is located approximately 30 miles east of Florence and is on the shores of Wheeler Lake. The park covers about 2,500 acres of land and provides a range of outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and golfing. There are 116 campsites with electric and water hookups, modern bathhouses, and laundry facilities. Sites can accommodate everything from camper vans to larger toy haulers. For those who prefer a more lavish camping experience, the park also offers a variety of cottages. The historic Wheeler Dam, built in the 1930s and spanning the Tennessee River, is one of the most recognized sights at Joe Wheeler State Park.
JP Coleman State Park is approximately 70 miles northwest of Florence, near the Mississippi-Alabama border. The park is on the banks of Pickwick Lake and offers fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities. Constructed in the 1930s and spanning the Tennessee River, the Pickwick Landing Dam is the most recognizable landmark in this park. The park also features a lodge with over 20 guest rooms, cabins, and a campground.
Tishomingo State Park is located approximately 35 miles south of Florence in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The park offers hiking, fishing, canoeing, rock climbing, and camping opportunities. The park is also home to a unique river crossing known as the Swinging Bridge, which stretches across Bear Creek and offers stunning views of the park's natural beauty.
National Forests Near Florence, Alabama
About an hour and a half to the west of Florence, you'll find the William B. Bankhead National Forest. This forest offers camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities. There are various campgrounds in this 180,000-acre forest, including the popular Corinth Recreation Area and Clear Creek Recreation Area. RVers can choose a more rustic camping area suitable for pop-up campers or a campground with larger spots for travel trailers. All the campsites have picnic tables and fire rings.
Holly Springs National Forest offers more than 155,000 acres of wooded hills, sparkling streams, and pristine lakes. Drive about an hour south in your Florence, AL RV rental to find this forest, which includes several campgrounds, including the Chewalla Lake Recreation Area. This campground offers RV sites with electric hookups, showers, and a dump station. Holly Springs National Forest also has several hiking and biking trails, including the 23-mile Tanglefoot Trail.
The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is about two hours west of Florence and is between two massive lakes, Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. It spans more than 170,000 acres. This forest has several campgrounds, including Hillman Ferry Campground and Piney Campground. These campgrounds offer a range of campsites with electric and water hookups and shower facilities. The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is known for its fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. RVers can enjoy various activities, including exploring the Elk & Bison Prairie, visiting the planetarium, and touring the historic Homeplace 1850s Working Farm.
Events Near Florence, Alabama
Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride – This event honors the memory of the Cherokees forced to relocate from their ancestral lands from 1838 to 1839. It is held every September. The event features a motorcycle ride that follows the path of the original Trail of Tears route and includes cultural events and educational exhibits.
Renaissance Faire – This annual October event celebrates the Renaissance with live performances, historical reenactments, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can enjoy live music, jousting tournaments, and medieval games and crafts.
W.C. Handy Music Festival – This upcoming July festival honors the Father of the Blues and takes place in Florence annually. It showcases the region's illustrious musical history. The festival also offers workshops, exhibits, cultural activities, and live gospel, jazz, and blues performances.
