Turn Back Time With a Stay at a Charming Retro Hotel & a Meal at this Vintage Diner in Alabama

Looking for a getaway with vintage vibes, delightfully different accommodations, and a dining experience that’s endured over a century? Well, of course, you will find it in Alabama’s Renaissance City. Sitting pretty along the banks of the Tennessee River, Florence is one of our favorite towns in northwest Alabama. 

History, luxury, and thoughtful touches of nostalgia blend beautifully at The GunRunner Hotel & Bar, a retro hotel in Florence, Alabama. Named as 2024’s best boutique hotel in America by USA Today readers, the GunRunner opened in downtown Florence in 2017. Lucky for you, the hotel is fortuitously within a 10-minute walk to Trowbridge’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop, known for over a century for its delicious treats and satisfying meals. You can easily plan a trip to Florence for a quick weekend getaway and utilize our itinerary to make the most of your time.

Each Suite Has a Story at GunRunner Hotel

Alabama's first boutique hotel, GunRunner features 10 unique suites, named after people, places, and aspects of the Shoals area’s character.  Every suite has a story, from those of the Muscle Shoals Sound and recording pioneer Sam Phillips to fashion designer Billy Reid to the University of North Alabama, the state’s oldest four-year university.

While all of the suites have differing themes, they share a common thread of vintage-inspired furnishings, luxurious linens, and modern amenities, making the GunRunner a home away from home for folks. All of the suites are situated around a large common area with multiple cozy seating areas and a massive wooden bar at its center.  Ascend the stairs to the right of the main bar to access the smaller, lively rooftop bar, a popular place to mix and mingle, especially during mild temps of spring and fall.

Legendary Ice Cream at Trowbridge's

While Florence has several excellent options for dining out, one that's a must-do is Trowbridge's Ice Cream & Sandwich Bar. Established in 1918 by Texas dairy farmer Paul Trowbridge, the shop is still in the family and a treasured taste of the Shoals and all of Alabama.

If you dig the classic soda shop look, you will fall in love head over teal with the interior of Trowbridge’s, which hasn’t changed much over its many years. It’s a blend of light teal and white checkered floors, glints of chrome along the bar and framing the teal stools and chairs, and a warm wood counter extending the shop's length.

The hardest part of your day will be deciding what to get. The most popular flavor is orange pineapple, which was created by the founder when the shop opened, so this is a must-try! There are many other yummy flavors to try, plus a selection of over a dozen sandwich options, hot dogs, homemade chicken soup, chili, and more. The chicken salad has been a top seller for many years, too.

Follow Trowbridge’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop on Facebook for the latest news.

Stroll and Shop in Downtown Florence

When the weather is nice, don’t miss the opportunity for a leisurely walk from the GunRunner to Trowbridge’s and back. You can easily fill an afternoon, stopping and shopping along the way. Downtown Florence has many great independent retailers specializing in antiques, apparel, gifts, and more. Be sure to carve out some time to explore the many scenic parks in Florence. McFarland Park, in particular, features a lovely walking path that follows the Tennessee River, making for an incredibly scenic stroll. 

To book your stay, visit the GunRunner Hotel website and follow GunRunner Hotel & Bar on Facebook for the latest news.

Learn more about all of the things to do in Florence from our previous article, and try planning your town trip to Florence using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.