When someone mentions the city of Florence, I am sure images of the Italian city and the birthplace of the Renaissance come to mind. But did you know that there is a Florence, Alabama that had it’s own modern Renaissance? Now, we had never heard of this lovely spot in the Northwest region of the state known as the Shoals. However, after spending a few days discovering its music, art, food, and culture, it became clear that Florence is definitely a Bucket List Destination. Discover all the amazing things to do in Florence Alabama.

The Music of the Shoals

When considering the modern Renaissance of Music, there is no doubt that Florence Alabama is a must see destination. From being the birthplace of the blues to its influence on Rock & Roll, you can spend countless hours exploring the region’s musical prowess.

• Muscle Shoals: Any trip to Florence, Alabama has to include a tour of the famous recording studio at 3614 Jackson Highway. This is the home of the famous session musicians, The Swampers. Given their name because of their “funky, soulful Southern ‘swamp’ sound” these 4 session musicians backed countless Rock & Roll musicians. A tour of the studio showcases where greats like Willie Nelson, The Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, Bob Seager, Cher, and many others laid down the tracks to their popular songs with The Swampers backing them up. (http://www.msmusicfoundation.org) 
• Alabama Music Hall of Fame: Whether you love country music, blues, or Rock & Roll, the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in Florence, Alabama is the perfect spot to explore. This fun and interactive museum has tons to see. You can spend hours listening and seeing historical items collected from some of Alabama’s greatest musicians and producers. You can even record your own CD if you get a wild hair! (http://alamhof.org)
• W.C. Handy Museum: Born in 1873, W.C. Handy, named the Father of the Blues after composing works like the St. Louis Blues and the Memphis Blues. At the museum you can explore the log cabin where he spent his childhood years. Along with his house, the museum houses his original piano, trumpet, and an assortment of his musical belongings. One of the highlights is a score completely written in braille that Handy used after he lost his sight. (http://www.visitflorenceal.com/things_to_do/w-c-handy-birthplace-museum-library) 

With amazing art, food, & fashion it's clear #FlorenceAlabama is great! But the music history is what makes it truly a #BucketlistDestination. Discover why you should #GoWithTheFlo! @VisitShoalsAL
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The Fashion of Florence, Alabama

In recent years, Florence, Alabama has become a national and international fashion mecca thanks to the efforts of Billy Reid & Natalie Chanin. These two talents have developed high fashion empires while still staying true to their local roots. While in Florence, take time to explore their flagship locations, you won’t regret it.

• Billy Reid: Billy Reid offers beautifully created clothing for the man in your life. His Florence store is located on Court Street in the heart of downtown. Stop in and admire his classic works, especially anything with The Billy Reid Signature Ribbon Stripe. (https://www.billyreid.com) 
• Alabama Chanin: Natalie Chanin is all about creating clothing from 100% organic cotton while supporting the local community. Known for her “eco-chic” designs, you will find unbelievable garments often handmade by the locals of Florence. Take particular notice of the intricate beading and beautiful details on many of her pieces. (https://alabamachanin.com) 
• The Shops of Downtown: While strolling around historic Downtown Florence, you will find numerous stores to satisfy your inner fashionista. Whether you are looking for clothes for the kids, custom made suits, or something to wear for your outdoor adventure, you can find it in Florence! (https://www.florencemainstreet.org)

The Art & History of Florence, Alabama

If you are an art or history enthusiast, then Florence, Alabama is a great bucket list destination. Whether you are a lover of the classics or prefer a modern influence, Florence has it all.

• Ivy Green: When it comes to historical landmarks in Florence, Alabama, Ivy Green should be at the top of your list. The birthplace and home of Helen Keller is now a museum. Visit to learn more about Helen’s life (the ladies that work at Ivy Green are extremely knowledgeable) and even see the famous water pump where Anne Sullivan found a way to communicate with Helen. (http://helenkellerbirthplace.org)
• The Rosenbaum House: In 1940, Stanley Rosenbaum and his wife Mildred moved into a newly constructed Frank Lloyd Wright house in Florence, Alabama. One of the only Wright homes available for tours in the South,  exploring the unique architecture of this Usonian style house is a must while in Florence. (www.WrightInAlabama.com)
• Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts: This museum is a magnificent gallery of different and revolving art displays from around the world. Here you will find everything from Abstract to Expressionism and everything in between. (http://www.kdartcenter.org)
• Street Art in the Historic Downtown: If you are like me, then you will love discovering the magnificent street murals scattered around Historic Downtown Florence. To appreciate the creative and colorful street art, cut through the alleys off Court Street, you can thank us later.
• King Drive-In Theater: If you love the art of cinema, then the region’s drive-in movie theater is a must. Though drive-in movie theaters are a dying breed, you can still enjoy a modern film in a classic setting. Boasting one of the few drive-ins left, Russelville, Alabama is about 30 minutes from downtown Florence. See what is showing by visiting their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/KingDriveInMovies.

The Culture of the Shoals

One of the best things about Florence, Alabama is the people and their zeal for life. This can be seen in how they celebrate their music, food, and history with their many events and festivals. For a full list of events visit the Florence Alabama Tourism Website for check out some great events like:

• Florence Wine Festival (Generally the 2nd weekend of March) – With over 200 wines from around the world, this is an annual celebration of wine, food, and community in downtown Florence, AL. (www.florencewinefest.com)
• “First Fridays” (1st Friday of every month – March through December) – Historic Downtown Florence comes alive with art, music, shopping and entertainment for the whole family! (http://firstfridaysflorence.org)
• Hellen Keller Festival (Generally the 3rd week of June) – This festival celebrates one of Florence’s favorite daughters and her remarkable life. The four day event is packed with activities, including an outdoor marketplace, performance of “The Miracle Worker” and various evening concerts.  (http://helenkellerfestival.com/site)
• W.C. Handy Music Festival (Generally the last week of July) – Florence, Alabama opens up the city to celebrate the Father of the Blues. This great festival is filled with fantastic food, activities, and of course unbelievable jazz and blues music. (http://www.WcHandyMusicfestival.com)
• Alabama Renaissance Faire (October) – We loved attending the Renaissance Festival in Louisiana! So you can only imagine how awesome this festival must be in the town nicknamed “Renaissance City!” The people of Florence showcase authentic Renaissance food, costumes, and music for two days in October.

The Food of Florence, Alabama

If you love food, then Florence will not disappoint! From classic southern fare to modern ethnic food, you will have plenty of options, even for the pickiest eater!

• Breakfast–

  • Staggs Deli: This old diner in Downtown Florence serves a classic southern style breakfast.
  • Big Bad Breakfast: You won’t go hungry if you have breakfast here. Make sure you get the biscuits because they are to die for. Also, take the time to admire the plane on the wall and all of the cool knick knacks around the restaurant.

• Lunch –

  • Yumm Thai Sushi & Beyond: If you are looking for some great Thai or Sushi then head over to Yumm for lunch! This hip spot in Historic Downtown Florence has a great menu and fantastic happy hour.
  • The Factory Cafe: Part of the Alabama Chanin Factory, this hot lunch spot offers a great menu. If you love burgers, then you will definitely want to grab a bite at The Factory.

• Afternoon Ice Cream –

  • Trowbridge’s: Trowbridge’s is another classic diner in the heart of Court Street. Open since 1918, you can have lunch here. However, it’s their award-winning orange pineapple ice cream that has brought customers in the door the past 100 years! 

• Wine and Beer –

  • The Carriage Wine & Market: If you love wine then you will want to stop by the Carriage. This beautiful establishment offers a great selection of wine and beer along with small plates to nibble on with friends.
  • Singin’ River Brewing Co: If you are a craft brew aficionado then the Singin’ River Brewing Company is a must visit destination. With a great selection you will find a full range of beers including the smooth flavor of the Handy’s Gold and the rich, full taste of our Porter. You are bound to find something to satisfy your craving. (www.SinginRiverBrewing.com)

• Dinner –

  • Odette: Odette is a great restaurant in Downtown Florence that specializes in farm to table dishes. Above all, they take pride in using local Alabama ingredients to create mouth watering recipes. 
  • Ray’s at the Bank: If you are like us, then you’ll agree there is something special about eating in a re-purposed building like an old bank! The ambiance at Ray’s at the Bank is magical. A musician plays in the background creating the perfect setting for an amazing meal! Whether you opt for seafood or have the burger, you won’t be disappointed. Make sure you save room for the Chocolate Lava Cake for dessert!

From award winning orange pineapple ice cream at #TrowbridgeIceCream to the unbelievable farm to table dinners, discover why you should wear your fat pants when you visit Florence, Alabama cause it's foodie's heaven. @VisitShoalsAL
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Where to Stay in Florence, Alabama

There are plenty of places to stay in Florence, Alabama that will fit any traveler’s style and budget. So whether you are searching for a budget hotel, a unique boutique, or something in between, it’ll be easy to find the perfect spot.

• Budget: Florence, Alabama has plenty of clean, cost effective hotels. So if you are wanting to stay near Downtown Florence, check out the Days Inn.  It’s centrally located within walking distance of the tourist spots!
• Mid-Priced: If you are looking for convenience and a good price then check out the Hampton Inn & Suites in Downtown Florence. Plus, this hotel is located less than a mile from the city center and has an unbelievable rating on Hotels.com. What we liked too is that they offer a delicious breakfast every morning. Not to mention, if you are good, they have hot bake cookies in the afternoon!
• Luxury: Locally owned, the GunRunner Boutique Hotel is in an ideal location in the heart of downtown Florence, Alabama. So you it’s ideal since it is Located within walking distance of many restaurants, bars and historical attractions. Plus, this luxury boutique hotel has 10 suites that celebrate the world-class music, fashion, art, and history of the area. So you will feel like you 100% enveloped in the culture of Florence.

Book Your Stay in Florence, Alabama Today 

Don’t forget to Pin “Florence Alabama: A Bucket List Destination” to your Bucket List Board!

Disclosure: The Bucket List Project was a guest of the Florence/Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. With that said, All opinions in “Florence Alabama: A Bucket List Destination” are our own. Also, “Florence Alabama: A Bucket List Destination” may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra, and it helps keep the site free, fun, and community supported! Eric & Darcee will never recommend a product that we don’t genuinely believe in, actually use ourselves, have researched, and trust. Please see the disclosure policy for more information.

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September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Wow. I can feel you losing interest.

Ok, how’s this: I had a brilliant, sparkling, insanely talented, kind, magical friend and Ovarian cancer stole her from me. Don’t worry, you’re not alone, being more interested in a person than a disease. People do not like to hear about ovarian cancer. While she was sick, and after, I posted things on Facebook about her and her family, and pictures of the two of us. I also posted statistics and graphics from the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition and The Mitchell Cancer Institute, where she was treated. The pictures and stories would get “likes,” comments of hope and support, and private messages asking how I was, how she was, while also promising prayers and offering well wishes. The graphs got maybe one or two weak “likes.” Yet, the majority of my Facebook friends are women  and while Breast cancer gets so much well deserved attention, gynecological cancers get significantly less.

Kindred Spirits 

I met Nicole Teague in college and I heard her sing before I heard her speak. We were both auditioning for a musical and she sang something from the show we were auditioning for. My first instinct was to dislike her, out of jealousy and intimidation, but after 14 years of friendship, I don’t know a soul who could ever truly dislike her. She was one of “those people.” Anne of Green Gables called them “kindred spirits” and try as I may, I can’t think of a better way to say it. Before I met Nicole, I was sullen and closed off, but she almost seemed to accept that as a challenge. We forged a friendship very quickly and I poured myself into her in a way I had never done before, or since. I feel terrible saying that because I have awesome life long friends and cousins and two incredible, wonderful sisters. But she was the platonic love of my life.

Nicole’s First Bucket List 

I remember the day I found out that my best friend had Cancer. Though, I really never could describe the grace with which she approached death. To most of us, it’s an abstract concept, a distant, far-off event. The traditional “bucket list” is a fun thing, even the name, implying “Things I will do before I kick the bucket,” is filled with whimsy. Nicole created her bucket list knowing that she had a limited amount of time to fulfill it. As a result, it was at some points a kinder, simpler list. She had the obligatory desire to climb Machu Picchu, of course (don’t we all?), but she also wanted to have red hair – a very simple wish – and take her two wonderful daughters somewhere on a plane. She wanted to travel to Italy, but cancer stole that from her too, she was too sick to be away for that long.

She wanted to jump into the Fairhope fountain with all of her friends (what, were we going to tell her NO?!) and we did that. She wanted to ride a Segway and ride in a police car, and she did those, too. She had wanted to run a full marathon since before she was diagnosed, but was far too weak and in pain from the chemo, so one day in January 2013 my husband and our friend Dane each ran 52.4 miles- one marathon for themselves and one for her.

Nicole’s Second Bucket List

There was also a second, unspoken bucket list. One entry involved spending time with her friends. At both of the hospitals she spent time in, her room had to be arranged so that it would be near a waiting room – because she had so many visitors, there had to be space for overflow. Someone would be appointed door monitor and retrieve people now and then from the waiting room (“Nicole will see you now”) like at a doctor’s office. Another item on the list was arranging things for after she was gone. The last time I spoke to her coherently, she was adding and figuring (she was excellent at Math) on a list of bills. She compiled a checklist for her husband with important facts and numbers for him to be able to conduct the business of life without her. Because not only did he lose his wife, he lost his team captain.

She planned her own funeral. She and Dane compiled a perfect slide show, selected hymns and chose her flowers. She very quietly wondered out loud to me one day who would be able to speak about her at the funeral. I was dizzy as I responded. I could. She called my husband and asked him to be a pallbearer, the way another woman her age may ask someone to be an usher at her wedding. He was honored beyond words.

But the most important item on Nicole’s unofficial, unspoken bucket list was her daughters. She read the Harry Potter books with them. She sat on the couch and watched Barbie shows on Netflix with them (a saintly task, as anyone with young girls knows). She painstakingly wrote both of them letters for major events in their lives (turning 13, starting high school, wedding day) that she wouldn’t be there for. She quietly hoped that her younger daughter would be baptized while she could be there; one day, during a simple, mother-daughter conversation, she indicated that she was ready, and Nicole was able to see her baptized.

Nicole had achieved most of the most important bucket list items before she even made the list, and far before she was diagnosed with cancer. She met, fell in love with and married a man whom she doted on and adored, had two brilliant, healthy girls, secured many steel-strong friendships, completed a bachelor’s degree, lived in her dream town, performed in many plays and countless church services, traveled to France, England, Mexico and Scotland, lived all over the United States, and was lucky enough to have two incredible, wonderful sisters (hey, just like me!).

She also did something she didn’t realize. She made people better. She scoffed when I told her, but when I am faced with certain obstacles in my life, I try to do what I think Nicole would do. When meeting a new person, I’d like to give a half nod and smile (I may still do that, now and then) but would Nicole do that? No! She’d introduce herself, flash her bright smile and make that person feel like one of the most important people in the world. So, that’s what I try to do. One day, sitting on her couch, I mentioned that someday I wanted to volunteer at the Reading for the Blind radio station. She gestured to my phone on the coffee table and said, “You have a smart phone! Go to their website! Email someone right now!” So, I did.

September's Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Jeanne shares her amazing story about Nicole Teague who Sadly lost a battle to Ovarian Cancer & how Early Detection is a chance for survival. #TakeActionNotChances #WhyTeal
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Early Detection is a chance for Survival against Ovarian Cancer

This is difficult for me to discuss, because we only talked about it a few times, it was too hard. You see, with Ovarian cancer, early detection is nearly the only chance for survival.

It’s so easy to say, “This is an older woman’s problem. I’ll worry about this when it’s time for my hysterectomy,” but Nicole was diagnosed at 34. That means she started having symptoms at 33. By anyone’s standards, she was a very young woman. The signs are so subtle. Feeling full after not eating much, abdominal discomfort, bloating, frequent or urgent urination. It’s come to light recently that many women with Ovarian cancer used talc products, so please do not allow anyone you love to apply baby powder to their “bathing suit region.” Research is being done at the Mitchell Cancer Institute in Mobile, Alabama to develop an early detection test- which is absolutely essential. One in 75 women will be diagnosed with Ovarian cancer, if they detect it early, their five year survival rate is 90%. Nicole was diagnosed on Tuesday, September 18, 2012 and died Tuesday, September 9, 2014. I’d have been thrilled for 3 more years.

She did so much in the short time she had. Truly. She softened the heart of this hardened grump and she made everyone love her without trying at all. She took chances, put her neck out, went for the big part, volunteered from the audience. I miss her every moment of every day and September has its own special sting for me. I’d be willing to bet that if you have ovaries, there’s someone who loves you who wants you to pay attention to them. And I’ll also bet that if you don’t, you love someone who does. Please know the signs, educate others, like NOCC and The Mitchell Cancer institute on Facebook, wear TEAL for ovarian cancer awareness in September (or purple, for all gynecological cancers). And tell your loved ones how you feel, every day. 

I complimented a new acquaintance on her coffee mug the other day, it was covered with rolling pastures and hills. She thanked me, and said that someone had given it to her because it reminded them of Italy, and she always said that heaven was just like Italy. I think I startled her with the exuberance of my response, because I yelled, “Score! That’s one more item down, then!”

• Nicole wrote her own beautiful entry on her bucket list, the tangible one. You can read her lovely words (and see her lovely face) at: http://baldisbeautifulcampaign.blogspot.com/2013/09/nicole-rolin-teague-terminal-stage-iiic.html
• September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month! In order to help educate more women of this tragic disease, Jeanne shared 3 Things You Need to Know About Ovarian Cancer. Learn what they are to prevent Ovarian Cancer here: https://neworleansmom.com/parenting/september-is-ovarian-cancer-awareness-month-3-things-you-need-to-know-about-ovarian-cancer
• The Key to battling Ovarian Cancer is Early Detection! To learn more about the Signs & Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer visit Ovarian.org
• If you want to help fund Ovarian Cancer research, consider donating to the Mitchell Cancer Institute at: http://www.usahealthsystem.com/makeagift

Don’t forget to Pin this to your Bucket List Board!

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