Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts: A Cultural Hub in Historic Homes
Explore art and history in three beautiful, historic homes at the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts in Florence, Alabama.
The Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts in Florence, Alabama, is a vibrant arts center housed in three historic homes. It offers rotating exhibits, workshops, and events, promoting arts and culture in the Shoals area. With free admission, it's a must-see for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
A brief summary to Kennedy - Douglass Center For The Arts
- 217 E Tuscaloosa St, Florence, Alabama, 35630, US
- +1256-760-6379
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the Florence Arts and Museums website for current exhibits and events before your visit.
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the three buildings and galleries.
- Visit during the annual Arts Alive festival in May for a vibrant celebration of local and regional art.
Getting There
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Walking
The Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts is located in downtown Florence, across from Wilson Park. From anywhere in the downtown area, it is easily accessible by foot. Simply head towards Wilson Park and you'll find the center on the opposite side of Tuscaloosa Street. Admission to the center is free.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 217 E Tuscaloosa St, Florence, AL 35630. The center is located in downtown Florence, across from Wilson Park. Parking is available on the street, with a small parking area behind the building. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak hours and events. Several hotels in Florence offer free parking.
Discover more about Kennedy - Douglass Center For The Arts
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pope's Tavern Museum
0.2 km
Explore the captivating history of Florence, Alabama at Pope's Tavern Museum, where past and present come alive through engaging exhibits.
Sannoner Historic District
0.2 km
Explore Florence's past in the Sannoner Historic District, where stunning architecture and rich history come together on tree-lined streets.
Walnut Street Historic District
0.3 km
Explore Florence, Alabama's past through the Walnut Street Historic District's diverse architecture and stories of prominent figures from the city's vibrant history.
Shoals-Wilson Dam Fountain
0.3 km
Explore the Shoals-Wilson Dam Fountain in Florence, AL, a beautiful historical landmark showcasing the region's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Wood Avenue Historic District
0.4 km
Explore the Wood Avenue Historic District, a stunning neighborhood in Florence, Alabama, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Locust Street Historic District
0.4 km
Discover the rich history and charming architecture of Locust Street Historic District in Florence, Alabama, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
The Rolling Stones in the Shoals in 1969 Historic Marker
0.8 km
Explore the historic landmark commemorating The Rolling Stones' legendary performance in 1969, a must-visit for music and history enthusiasts in Florence, Alabama.
"Mountain" Tom Clark Historic Site
0.9 km
Explore the Mountain Tom Clark Historic Site in Florence, Alabama, a remarkable historical landmark that reveals the intriguing life and legacy of its namesake.
College Place Historic District
1.1 km
Explore the serene and picturesque College Place Historic District in Florence, Alabama, a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty.
McFarland Lighthouse
2.2 km
A charming landmark in McFarland Park offering beautiful views of the Tennessee River in Florence, Alabama.
Old Water Tower
2.7 km
Explore the Old Water Tower in Florence, AL - a historic landmark surrounded by serene parkland perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker
2.7 km
Explore the Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker in Sheffield, Alabama, where history meets nature in a captivating landscape.
Former Florence Wagon Works site
2.9 km
Discover the rich industrial heritage of Florence at the Former Florence Wagon Works site, a historic landmark that tells the story of an era gone by.
Sweetwater Mansion
3.8 km
Explore Sweetwater Mansion in Florence, AL: A historic landmark with stunning architecture, Civil War history, and captivating ghost stories.
Sheffield Standpipe
4.1 km
Explore the Sheffield Standpipe, a historic landmark that showcases Alabama's engineering heritage and offers a unique glimpse into the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
W C Handy Museum
1.3 km
Explore the life and music of the 'Father of the Blues' at his birthplace museum in Florence, Alabama.
Frank Lloyd Wright - Rosenbaum House Museum
1.3 km
Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian masterpiece in Florence, Alabama: a unique architectural experience open for public tours.
Florence Indian Mound and Museum
1.6 km
Explore ancient Native American history and culture at the Florence Indian Mound, the Tennessee Valley's largest earthen mound and museum.
McFarland Park
2.1 km
Discover scenic beauty & recreation at McFarland Park in Florence, AL – a historic riverside destination with events, camping, & family fun!
Old Railroad Bridge
2.4 km
Walk across history on Alabama's oldest bridge site, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape on the Tennessee River.
Muscle Shoals Sound Studios
4.0 km
Step into music history at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, where legends created the iconic 'Muscle Shoals sound' in Sheffield, Alabama.
River Heritage Park
4.0 km
Discover scenic views, family fun, and local history at River Heritage Park in Florence, Alabama, on the banks of the Tennessee River.
Wilson Dam Waterfall
4.6 km
Discover the beauty of Wilson Dam Waterfall in Muscle Shoals: a natural oasis with hiking trails and historical significance.
Children's Museum Shoals
4.7 km
Northwest Alabama's premier children's museum, offering interactive exhibits and programs that spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Deibert Park
4.9 km
Explore nature and history at Deibert Park, a 70-acre green space in Florence, Alabama, with trails, ponds, and family-friendly activities.
Forks of Cypress
6.5 km
Discover the haunting beauty and historical significance of the Forks of Cypress, a former cotton plantation in Florence, Alabama.
Helen Keller Birthplace
7.9 km
Explore the birthplace of Helen Keller, a National Historic Landmark in Tuscumbia, Alabama, and discover the inspiring story of her life and achievements.
Tennessee Valley Museum of Art
7.9 km
Discover diverse art exhibitions, prehistoric artifacts, and community programs at the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Coldwater Stagecoach Stop
8.6 km
Experience Alabama's frontier history at the Coldwater Stagecoach Stop, a preserved 19th-century cabin in Tuscumbia.
Tuscumbia Spring Park
8.7 km
Discover natural beauty and historical charm at Tuscumbia Spring Park, home to Coldwater Falls and family-friendly fun in downtown Tuscumbia.
Essential places to dine
Inez's Drive Inn
52.6 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Inez's Drive Inn in Tishomingo - where every meal feels like home.
Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant
54.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico at Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant in Tishomingo – where every meal is a fiesta!
Viva La Casita
54.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Viva La Casita in Tishomingo - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings
60.3 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings in Decatur, AL – where flavor meets hospitality.
Logan's Roadhouse
63.8 km
Experience hearty American cuisine at Logan's Roadhouse in Decatur – where every meal feels like home!
Scruggs BBQ
64.7 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Scruggs BBQ in Decatur - where flavor meets tradition.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
64.9 km
Experience American cuisine at its best at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Decatur - where flavor meets family-friendly fun!
Southern Style Barbeque
65.0 km
Experience authentic Southern barbeque at its finest in Decatur; savor smoky flavors and hearty dishes made with love.
Nash Barbeque
65.4 km
Discover the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Nash Barbeque in Decatur, Alabama – where every bite tells a story.
Chick-fil-A
65.6 km
Savor the flavors of Southern hospitality at Chick-fil-A in Decatur - where every meal is made with care.
Serrano's Mexican
66.1 km
Discover the rich flavors of Mexico at Serrano's Mexican in Decatur – where every meal is a fiesta!
L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina
66.4 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina in Decatur – where every meal is a festive celebration of flavor!
Bank Street Grill
66.6 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Bank Street Grill in Decatur, AL - where flavor meets hospitality.
Simp McGhee's
66.6 km
Experience exquisite seafood and Cajun cuisine at Simp McGhee's in Decatur - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Josie's
66.9 km
Discover Josie's: A Mediterranean oasis in Decatur serving exquisite Italian cuisine and refreshing drinks in an inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Eclectic
0.4 km
Explore The Eclectic in Florence, Alabama: your go-to boutique for unique gifts, handcrafted items, and delightful finds that capture local charm.
the homestead MERCANTILE
2.9 km
Explore The Homestead Mercantile in Florence, AL for unique gifts, local crafts, and a taste of Southern charm in every corner.
Books-A-Million
5.6 km
Discover a world of books, collectibles, and unique gifts at Books-A-Million in Florence, Alabama, where every visit is an adventure in reading.
The Back 40 Boutique
6.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at The Back 40 Boutique in Muscle Shoals, Alabama – a treasure trove of Southern charm and creativity.
Basse Trading Company
8.4 km
Explore Basse Trading Company in Tuscumbia, Alabama, where every antique tells a story and treasures await around every corner.
Boutique 72
9.8 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Boutique 72 in Tuscumbia, Alabama, where local artistry meets unique fashion finds.
Vintage South Marketplace
10.3 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques, boutique finds, and sports memorabilia at Vintage South Marketplace in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
The Emporium of Curiosities and Oddities
17.2 km
Explore the whimsical wonders of The Emporium of Curiosities and Oddities, a unique gift shop in Killen, Alabama for travelers seeking the extraordinary.
Suzys Boutiques
34.1 km
Explore Suzys Boutiques for an eclectic collection of women's fashion, offering quality brands and stylish finds in Russellville, Alabama.
Maggie J's Boutique Clothing
34.8 km
Explore unique styles and local fashion treasures at Maggie J's Boutique Clothing in Russellville, Alabama, perfect for your next wardrobe update.
Too Peas
34.9 km
Explore Too Peas Gift Shop in Rogersville, Alabama, for unique finds and local treasures that capture the spirit of the region.
Stephen's Unique Antique Mall
35.0 km
Uncover hidden gems and vintage treasures at Stephen's Unique Antique Mall in Rogersville, Alabama, where every corner tells a story.
O'Claire's Boutique & Gift Shop
47.1 km
Explore O'Claire's Boutique & Gift Shop in Iuka, Mississippi for unique gifts, local crafts, and stylish apparel that encapsulate Southern charm.
Hodge Antique’s
47.9 km
Discover unique antiques and timeless treasures at Hodge Antique’s in Iuka, Mississippi, where history and nostalgia come together.
Just a Kind Word Florist
48.1 km
Discover the beauty of fresh flowers and unique arrangements at Just a Kind Word Florist in Iuka, Mississippi.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stell's Sports Grille
10.3 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine and sports excitement at Stell's Sports Grille in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Rattlesnake Saloon
27.3 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Rattlesnake Saloon, where delicious hamburgers meet a lively bar atmosphere in the heart of Alabama.
Frosty Inn
36.0 km
Experience delightful comfort food in a cozy atmosphere at Frosty Inn, a favorite dining spot in Russellville, Alabama.
Rancho Mexican Restaurant
37.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Rancho Mexican Restaurant, where authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Homestead Cafe
45.5 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality at Homestead Cafe, where comfort food meets charming ambiance in Spruce Pine, Alabama.
Swisher hotdogs
46.0 km
Experience the true taste of Alabama with customizable hot dogs at Swisher Hotdogs in Spruce Pine, where every bite is a taste of tradition.
Table 127
46.9 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Table 127 in Iuka, MS, where every meal is a delicious journey into local flavors.
Cream & Sugar Cafe
47.1 km
Discover the charm of Cream & Sugar Cafe in Iuka, MS—where delightful flavors and cozy ambiance meet southern hospitality.
Front Street Snack Bar
47.1 km
Savor delicious snacks at Front Street Snack Bar, Iuka's cozy eatery with a delightful Southern charm and affordable prices.
B and J Cafe
47.4 km
Discover the heart of Southern cuisine at B and J Cafe in Phil Campbell, Alabama, where comfort food and warm hospitality await.
Chuckwagon Cafe
47.8 km
Discover the flavors of the South at Chuckwagon Cafe, a charming spot in Iuka, Mississippi, serving delicious comfort food with a warm welcome.
Bian Garden
47.8 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Bian Garden in Iuka, MS – a culinary gem offering a diverse menu and warm hospitality.
Santa Fe Mexican Grill
47.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Santa Fe Mexican Grill in Iuka, Mississippi, where vibrant flavors and warm hospitality await.
Tri-State Crawfish & Produce
47.9 km
Discover the authentic taste of Mississippi seafood at Tri-State Crawfish & Produce, a local favorite for fresh crawfish and Southern delights.
Lil Smokies
48.0 km
Discover the authentic taste of southern barbecue at Lil Smokies in Iuka, where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.