Things To Do
Big Bad Breakfast
Hunter and Abbey love Big Bad Breakfast because it all started in Oxford, Mississippi—right where they went to college at Ole Miss. It brings back great memories, and the Florence, Alabama location has become their favorite local spot to keep that tradition alive.
Rivertown Coffee
Rivertown Coffee in Florence, Alabama, stands out as a beloved community hub, seamlessly blending exceptional coffee, inventive cuisine, and an inclusive atmosphere. Established in 2004 by John Cartwright, the café has become a cornerstone of downtown Florence, attracting a diverse clientele ranging from University of North Alabama students to local professionals and artists. Open Thursday-Saturday
Dandelion & Co Tea and Coffee Bar
Established in 2017 and later expanded to Florence, the shop is known for its unique blend of specialty coffees and an extensive selection of teas, many of which incorporate parts of the dandelion plant—a nod to the shop's name. Favorites include the "Purple Haze" latte and the "Dust in the Mocha," both praised for their distinctive flavors. The interior is designed to resemble a comfortable living room, complete with plush seating and hardwood floors, creating a warm and welcoming environment. Open Thursday-Sunday
Odette
Odette is a standout restaurant in downtown Florence, Alabama, offering elevated American cuisine with Southern and international influences. Chef Josh Quick leads the kitchen, crafting seasonal menus that highlight locally sourced ingredients from farms like Kodachrome Gardens and Two Brook’s Farm.
Ricatoni's Italian Grill
Ricatoni’s Italian Grill has been a staple in downtown Florence, Alabama, for nearly three decades—and for Abbey’s family, it's been part of their routine for just as long. Over the past 25 years, they’ve returned again and again for casual weeknight dinners, birthday celebrations, and everything in between. What makes Ricatoni’s stand out isn’t just the menu, though the wood-fired pizzas, house-made pasta, and signature bread with herbs and olive oil are definitely favorites. It’s the consistency and familiarity that keep people coming back. The setting—right in the heart of historic downtown—adds to the appeal, with its exposed brick, cozy booths, and view of Court Street.
Trowbridge's Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop
Trowbridge’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop in Florence, Alabama, stands out as a cherished local institution renowned for its rich history and timeless flavors. Established in 1917, it holds the distinction of being Alabama's oldest ice cream shop still operating in its original location.
Lava Room
Lava Room is a vibrant dining, entertainment, and event venue in the heart of downtown Florence, AL. Their eclectic menu features flavorful ramen bowls, house-made egg rolls, bao buns, sandwiches, and lettuce wraps. Feeling brave? Test your limits with their infamous spicy ramen challenge—just ask Hunter, who conquered it and earned the shirt to prove it. Their full-service bar serves up creative cocktails, a carefully curated sake and wine list, and a rotating selection of craft beers. The Lava Room stage comes alive with everything from vinyl DJ sets and karaoke nights to performances by touring original artists. Closes at 1:00AM
The Boiler Room
Located in the basement of the iconic 116-year-old Factory at Alabama Chanin, the venue was once an actual boiler room, and it retains much of its industrial character—with exposed brick walls, vintage piping, and moody lighting creating an atmospheric vibe. What really sets it apart, though, is its duckpin bowling lanes, cozy cocktail bar, and frequent live music events, which all come together to make it a local favorite. Closes at 2:00AM
Muscle Shoals Sound Studios
Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama is legendary for its unique blend of Southern soul, rock, R&B, and country, known as the "Muscle Shoals sound." Founded in 1969 by the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section—nicknamed “The Swampers”—the studio became famous for its raw, soulful recordings and its unexpected cultural fusion during a time of tension. Its laid-back, creative atmosphere attracted major artists seeking authenticity and freedom. Top artists who recorded there include: Aretha Franklin – revitalized her career with hits like “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)” Wilson Pickett – recorded classics like “Mustang Sally” Etta James – laid down soulful tracks like “Tell Mama” The Rolling Stones – recorded parts of “Brown Sugar” and “Wild Horses” Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Cher, and Rod Stewart also recorded key songs there. Muscle Shoals became a cornerstone of American music history.
Helen Keller Birthplace
Helen Keller was born on June 27, 1880, in Tuscumbia, Alabama, at a home called Ivy Green. This historic site is now a museum dedicated to her life and legacy. Keller became deaf and blind at 19 months old due to an illness, but with the help of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, she learned to communicate, eventually becoming a world-renowned author, speaker, and advocate for people with disabilities. Ivy Green remains a symbol of her extraordinary achievements and resilience.
Stella & Goose
Stella & Goose is a vibrant art studio and gallery located in downtown Florence, Alabama, at 228 North Court Street. Founded by local art educators Lisa Wallace and Rebecca Hudson, the shop offers a creative space where artists of all ages can explore their talents through classes and workshops . The gallery features a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and handcrafted wooden pieces, showcasing the work of regional artists.
Deibert Park
Deibert Park in Florence, Alabama, is a cherished 70-acre green space that seamlessly blends natural beauty, rich history, and community engagement. The Children's Museum of the Shoals is located right beside Deibert Park in Florence, Alabama.This makes for a fantastic family outing, combining interactive learning at the museum with outdoor fun in the park.