Growing up in Tuscaloosa, I had never heard much about Florence, much less UNA. I didn't become interested in UNA until my junior year of high school and didn't decide until senior year that I would be attending. I am so thankful that I chose to come to school here, not only for the great education but the wonderful atmosphere and community that is Florence, Alabama. I never thought I could love another town that wasn't my hometown as much as I love Florence.
The University of North Alabama
UNA is such a major part of the community of Florence. Much of the activity and events revolve around this university, and I love that. I love how connected the people in Florence are to the programs of the university, and the students who attend North Alabama. It is such a welcoming community that supports its university with pride, always decked in purple and gold. UNA itself is a wonderful size, and its faculty and alumni are always encouraging students to get involved, which is so easy to do on this beautiful campus. It is so welcoming to everyone, and I have loved every second so far of being a part of this pride (because we're lions, get it?). Plus, there are two real, live lions on our campus.
McFarland Park
McFarland Park is the place to go if you want to just walk your dog, sit and enjoy lunch at a picnic table, or the most popular activity, go hammocking (ENO-ing). Go on any pretty afternoon, especially a Saturday or Sunday, and you'll see a multitude of colorful ENOs hanging in the trees, with college students doing homework, relaxing, or just taking a nap in the comfortable hammock. McFarland has a great atmosphere that draws many people to it.
Good Food
Along with being the home of a wonderful university and a cool park, Florence is home to many phenomenal restaurants. Downtown, you have City Hardware, Ricatoni's, Pie Factory, and Rosie's Mexican Cantina, and that's only naming a few that downtown Florence has to offer. Two of my personal favorites are Fiesta Mexicana and Rice Box, Mexican and Asian restaurants respectively, and they are located in the Seven Points Shopping Center.
First Fridays
On the first Friday of each month March through December, the streets of downtown Florence are filled with all kinds of culture. There is a variety of vendors, art, and live music and other events that last from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. It is an entertaining way to spend your night, and it's something you can take your whole family to. They go on rain or shine, and they're always so fun, you don't want to miss out.
Florence may not be big, but what it lacks in size, it makes up in quality and atmosphere. It is unique and has many events and venues that are infused with culture and music, like the W.C. Handy Museum. The people are wonderful, and so is the town as a whole. I wouldn't pick any other place to call my second home.
