The Small Town In Alabama That’s One Of The Coolest In The U.S.

Located in northwest Alabama, along the banks of the Tennessee River, sits the town of Florence. Florence has many great things to see and do, which makes it the perfect place to live or visit. According to Southern Living magazine, Florence is one of the "South's Best Small Towns", and you don't want to miss it. There are many different reasons why Florence stands out among other Alabama towns, and here are our thoughts about one of the coolest small towns in Alabama. Here are some of the top things to do in Florence, Alabama:

1. Florence has one of the best downtown areas in Alabama.

Florence's downtown area has it all! Specialty shops, award-winning restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries and so much more. For further information about Florence's downtown area, click here.

2. On the first Friday of each month, Florence hosts its popular "First Fridays" event.

For information regarding this free public event, visit the Downtown Florence Alliance website.

3. Florence is home to Alabama's oldest ice cream parlor and sandwich shop.

Founded in 1918, Trowbridge's is the oldest business in Florence that's still operating from its original location. It's best known for its orange pineapple ice cream.

4. Florence is also home to the only live lion mascot in the U.S. that is living on a college campus.

Located on the University of North Alabama campus is the George H. Carroll Lion Habitat. At one point there were two lions, but sadly, Una, the female lion, passed away in 2020. You can learn more about Leo III, the surviving lion, on the Leo and Una website.

5. If you're a fan of music history, Florence is a definite must-visit! This historic town is the birthplace of the "Father of the Blues" and...

W.C. Handy, the "Father of the Blues," was born in Florence, Alabama on November 16, 1873. He was one of America's most influential songwriters, and you can learn all about his life by visiting the W.C. Handy Birthplace, Museum & Library.

6. ...the "Father of Rock 'N' Roll."

Sam Phillips was born in Florence, Alabama on January 5, 1923. As the founder of Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee, Sam Phillips is best known for discovering Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash.

7. Florence offers a truly unique dining experience. It's home to the state's only revolving restaurant.

360 Grille is an upscale, revolving restaurant that's located atop Renaissance Tower. It offers an amazing view of the Tennessee River. For more information, visit the

360 Grille Facebook page.

8. While exploring Florence, you'll stumble upon many great pieces of architecture, including the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House.

This is such an incredible example of architecture in Florence, AL.

9. Florence, like all small towns, has that one special place that's considered a local favorite.

Staggs Grocery has been a Florence landmark since 1937. It's best known for its delicious breakfast and mouthwatering burgers.

10. And finally, Florence hosts one of the largest all-volunteer events in the nation.

The Alabama Renaissance Faire, which takes place during the fall season, is one of North Alabama's top tourist events. For more information, visit the Alabama Renaissance Feast & Faire website.

Have you ever visited Florence, Alabama? If so, what did you think? What were some of your favorite things to see and do? Share your thoughts with us! And check out some of Alabama's other most charming small towns.