McFarland Park: A Riverside Jewel in Florence
Discover scenic beauty & recreation at McFarland Park in Florence, AL – a historic riverside destination with events, camping, & family fun!
McFarland Park, nestled along the Tennessee River in Florence, Alabama, offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. With a rich history dating back thousands of years, this park is a hub for community events and outdoor fun, featuring playgrounds, camping sites, a marina, and scenic walking trails.
A brief summary to McFarland Park
- 200 James M Spain Dr, Florence, Alabama, 35630, US
- +1256-740-8817
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-9 pm
- Thursday 8 am-9 pm
- Friday 8 am-9 pm
- Saturday 8 am-9 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Check the Florence AL city website for event listings at McFarland Park, especially around major holidays and festivals.
- Bring your fishing gear! The park provides access to the Tennessee River, known for its excellent fishing.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables or shelters, some equipped with fireplaces.
- Consider booking a campsite in advance, especially during peak season (May-August), to secure your spot.
- Take advantage of the walking trails for a scenic stroll around the harbor and enjoy the views of the Tennessee River.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Florence, McFarland Park is accessible by foot. Head east on Tennessee Street, then turn right onto N Court Street. Continue onto Clayborn Liles Drive, and you'll find the park entrance on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take around 30 minutes. Enjoy the scenic views of the Tennessee River as you approach.
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Driving
If driving from the Shoals area, take US-43/Florence Blvd towards downtown Florence. Turn onto Hermitage Drive, then turn onto James M Spain Drive. Follow the road until you reach McFarland Park. Parking is available within the park. Parking at the Tombigbee Cashless Parking Deck downtown is $0.50/hour, with a daily maximum of $4.
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Public Transport
Public transportation options in Florence are limited. The Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments (NACOLG) offers a Dial-a-Ride service that requires advance scheduling. Contact them at (256) 314-0047 or toll-free at (833) 314-0047 to arrange a ride. A one-way trip within the Shoals area typically costs around $3.
Discover more about McFarland Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
McFarland Lighthouse
0.3 km
Explore McFarland Lighthouse in Florence, Alabama - a scenic spot steeped in history, offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat for all visitors.
Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker
1.0 km
Explore the Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker in Sheffield, Alabama, where history meets nature in a captivating landscape.
The Rolling Stones in the Shoals in 1969 Historic Marker
1.3 km
Explore the historic landmark commemorating The Rolling Stones' legendary performance in 1969, a must-visit for music and history enthusiasts in Florence, Alabama.
Shoals-Wilson Dam Fountain
1.9 km
Explore the Shoals-Wilson Dam Fountain in Florence, AL, a beautiful historical landmark showcasing the region's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Locust Street Historic District
1.9 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.
Wood Avenue Historic District
2.1 km
Explore the Wood Avenue Historic District, a stunning neighborhood in Florence, Alabama, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Pope's Tavern Museum
2.2 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
2.3 km
Explore the Sannoner Historic District in Florence, Alabama, where charming architecture meets rich Southern heritage for an unforgettable experience.
"Mountain" Tom Clark Historic Site
2.4 km
Discover the rich history and stunning vistas at Mountain Tom Clark Historic Site in Florence, Alabama, a hidden gem for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Walnut Street Historic District
2.4 km
Discover the enchanting Walnut Street Historic District in Florence, Alabama, where history and architecture come alive in a picturesque setting.
Sheffield Standpipe
2.4 km
Explore the Sheffield Standpipe, a historic landmark that showcases Alabama's engineering heritage and offers a unique glimpse into the past.
Old Stone Bridge
2.7 km
Explore the Old Stone Bridge, a historical landmark in Sheffield, Alabama, offering scenic beauty and a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.
College Place Historic District
3.2 km
Explore the serene and picturesque College Place Historic District in Florence, Alabama, a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty.
Sheffield Downtown Commercial Historic District
3.4 km
Explore the rich heritage and vibrant local culture of Sheffield Downtown Commercial Historic District in Alabama, a haven for history enthusiasts and shoppers alike.
Former Florence Wagon Works site
3.6 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old Railroad Bridge
0.8 km
Walk across history on Alabama's oldest bridge site, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape on the Tennessee River.
Florence Indian Mound and Museum
0.9 km
Explore ancient Native American history and culture at the Florence Indian Mound, the Tennessee Valley's largest earthen mound and museum.
Frank Lloyd Wright - Rosenbaum House Museum
1.0 km
Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian masterpiece in Florence, Alabama: a unique architectural experience open for public tours.
W C Handy Museum
1.4 km
Explore the life and music of the 'Father of the Blues' at his birthplace museum in Florence, Alabama.
Muscle Shoals Sound Studios
1.9 km
Step into music history at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, where legends created the iconic 'Muscle Shoals sound' in Sheffield, Alabama.
Kennedy - Douglass Center For The Arts
2.1 km
Explore art and history in three beautiful, historic homes at the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts in Florence, Alabama.
Wilson Dam Waterfall
4.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Wilson Dam Waterfall in Muscle Shoals, a blend of nature and history near the iconic Wilson Dam.
River Heritage Park
4.8 km
Explore history, nature, and recreation at River Heritage Park in Florence, AL, with scenic trails, historical exhibits, and family-friendly amenities.
Tennessee Valley Museum of Art
5.9 km
Explore diverse art exhibitions and cultural heritage at the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Helen Keller Birthplace
5.9 km
Explore the birthplace of Helen Keller, a National Historic Landmark in Tuscumbia, Alabama, and discover the inspiring story of her life and achievements.
Coldwater Stagecoach Stop
6.5 km
Experience Alabama's frontier history at the Coldwater Stagecoach Stop, a preserved 19th-century cabin in Tuscumbia.
Children's Museum Shoals
6.7 km
Northwest Alabama's premier children's museum, offering interactive exhibits and programs that spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Tuscumbia Spring Park
6.7 km
Discover natural beauty and historical charm at Tuscumbia Spring Park, home to Coldwater Falls and family-friendly fun in downtown Tuscumbia.
Deibert Park
6.8 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
8.1 km
Discover the haunting beauty and historical significance of the Forks of Cypress, a former cotton plantation in Florence, Alabama.
Essential places to dine
Inez's Drive Inn
51.9 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Inez's Drive Inn in Tishomingo - where every meal feels like home.
Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant
53.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico at Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant in Tishomingo – where every meal is a fiesta!
Viva La Casita
53.4 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Viva La Casita in Tishomingo - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings
59.8 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
63.2 km
Experience hearty American cuisine at Logan's Roadhouse in Decatur – where every meal feels like home!
Scruggs BBQ
64.2 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Scruggs BBQ in Decatur - where flavor meets tradition.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
64.2 km
Experience American cuisine at its best at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Decatur - where flavor meets family-friendly fun!
Southern Style Barbeque
64.4 km
Experience authentic Southern barbeque at its finest in Decatur; savor smoky flavors and hearty dishes made with love.
Nash Barbeque
64.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Nash Barbeque in Decatur, Alabama – where every bite tells a story.
Chick-fil-A
64.9 km
Savor the flavors of Southern hospitality at Chick-fil-A in Decatur - where every meal is made with care.
Serrano's Mexican
65.5 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
65.7 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
66.1 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Bank Street Grill in Decatur, AL - where flavor meets hospitality.
Simp McGhee's
66.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood and Cajun cuisine at Simp McGhee's in Decatur - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Chow King Grill & Buffet
66.3 km
Savor an all-you-can-eat adventure at Chow King Grill & Buffet in Decatur - where diverse cuisines meet affordability!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Eclectic
2.0 km
Explore The Eclectic in Florence, Alabama: your go-to boutique for unique gifts, handcrafted items, and delightful finds that capture local charm.
The Back 40 Boutique
4.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at The Back 40 Boutique in Muscle Shoals, Alabama – a treasure trove of Southern charm and creativity.
the homestead MERCANTILE
4.8 km
Explore The Homestead Mercantile in Florence, AL for unique gifts, local crafts, and a taste of Southern charm in every corner.
Basse Trading Company
6.4 km
Explore Basse Trading Company in Tuscumbia, Alabama, where every antique tells a story and treasures await around every corner.
Books-A-Million
7.2 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.
Boutique 72
7.7 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Boutique 72 in Tuscumbia, Alabama, where local artistry meets unique fashion finds.
Vintage South Marketplace
8.2 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
18.2 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
31.9 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
32.7 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
35.3 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
35.4 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
47.8 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
48.0 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
8.3 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine and sports excitement at Stell's Sports Grille in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Rattlesnake Saloon
25.9 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Rattlesnake Saloon, where delicious hamburgers meet a lively bar atmosphere in the heart of Alabama.
Frosty Inn
33.9 km
Experience delightful comfort food in a cozy atmosphere at Frosty Inn, a favorite dining spot in Russellville, Alabama.
Rancho Mexican Restaurant
35.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Rancho Mexican Restaurant, where authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Homestead Cafe
43.3 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality at Homestead Cafe, where comfort food meets charming ambiance in Spruce Pine, Alabama.
Swisher hotdogs
43.9 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.
B and J Cafe
45.3 km
Discover the heart of Southern cuisine at B and J Cafe in Phil Campbell, Alabama, where comfort food and warm hospitality await.
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
47.0 km
Discover the charm of Cream & Sugar Cafe in Iuka, MS—where delightful flavors and cozy ambiance meet southern hospitality.
Front Street Snack Bar
47.0 km
Savor delicious snacks at Front Street Snack Bar, Iuka's cozy eatery with a delightful Southern charm and affordable prices.
Bian Garden
47.7 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Bian Garden in Iuka, MS – a culinary gem offering a diverse menu and warm hospitality.
Chuckwagon Cafe
47.7 km
Discover the flavors of the South at Chuckwagon Cafe, a charming spot in Iuka, Mississippi, serving delicious comfort food with a warm welcome.
Santa Fe Mexican Grill
47.8 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.
