W.C. Handy Museum: The Birthplace of the Blues
Explore the life and music of the 'Father of the Blues' at his birthplace museum in Florence, Alabama.
Visit the preserved birthplace and museum dedicated to William Christopher Handy, the 'Father of the Blues,' in Florence, Alabama. Explore his life, music, and legacy through artifacts, instruments, and original compositions.
A brief summary to W C Handy Museum
- 620 W College St, Florence, West Florence, Alabama, 35630, US
- +1256-760-6434
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for information on special events and exhibits.
- Plan to spend at least an hour or two to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
- Consider visiting during the annual W.C. Handy Music Festival in July for a vibrant celebration of blues music.
Getting There
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Walking
The W.C. Handy Museum is located at 620 W College St, in the western part of Florence, Alabama. From downtown Florence, head west on College Street. The museum will be on your left, a short walk from the Lauderdale County Courthouse.
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Public Transport
The Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments (NACOLG) offers a Dial-a-Ride service in the Shoals area, including Florence. Contact them at (256) 314-0047 or toll-free at (833) 314-0047 to schedule a ride to the museum. Fares vary depending on the distance, but a one-way trip within the city limits typically costs around $3.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Florence. A short ride from downtown Florence to the museum will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and the specific service.
Discover more about W C Handy Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Locust Street Historic District
0.9 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
1.0 km
Explore the Wood Avenue Historic District, a stunning neighborhood in Florence, Alabama, rich in history and architectural beauty.
The Rolling Stones in the Shoals in 1969 Historic Marker
1.1 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
1.1 km
Explore the Shoals-Wilson Dam Fountain in Florence, AL, a beautiful historical landmark showcasing the region's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Pope's Tavern Museum
1.3 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
1.3 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
1.5 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.
McFarland Lighthouse
1.6 km
A charming landmark in McFarland Park offering beautiful views of the Tennessee River in Florence, Alabama.
"Mountain" Tom Clark Historic Site
2.0 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
2.0 km
Explore the serene and picturesque College Place Historic District in Florence, Alabama, a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty.
Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker
2.4 km
Explore the Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker in Sheffield, Alabama, where history meets nature in a captivating landscape.
Sheffield Standpipe
2.9 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
3.2 km
Discover the timeless charm of Sheffield's Old Stone Bridge, a picturesque landmark offering history and scenic beauty in a tranquil setting.
Old Water Tower
3.2 km
Explore the Old Water Tower in Florence, AL - a historic landmark surrounded by serene parkland perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Former Florence Wagon Works site
3.9 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Frank Lloyd Wright - Rosenbaum House Museum
0.5 km
Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian masterpiece in Florence, Alabama: a unique architectural experience open for public tours.
Kennedy - Douglass Center For The Arts
1.3 km
Explore art and history in three beautiful, historic homes at the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts in Florence, Alabama.
McFarland Park
1.4 km
Discover scenic beauty & recreation at McFarland Park in Florence, AL – a historic riverside destination with events, camping, & family fun!
Florence Indian Mound and Museum
1.5 km
Explore ancient Native American history and culture at the Florence Indian Mound, the Tennessee Valley's largest earthen mound and museum.
Old Railroad Bridge
2.1 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
3.3 km
Step into music history at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, where legends created the iconic 'Muscle Shoals sound' in Sheffield, Alabama.
River Heritage Park
5.0 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
5.4 km
Discover the beauty of Wilson Dam Waterfall in Muscle Shoals: a natural oasis with hiking trails and historical significance.
Children's Museum Shoals
6.0 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
6.1 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
6.7 km
Discover the haunting beauty and historical significance of the Forks of Cypress, a former cotton plantation in Florence, Alabama.
Helen Keller Birthplace
6.7 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
6.7 km
Discover diverse art exhibitions, prehistoric artifacts, and community programs at the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Coldwater Stagecoach Stop
7.5 km
Experience Alabama's frontier history at the Coldwater Stagecoach Stop, a preserved 19th-century cabin in Tuscumbia.
Tuscumbia Spring Park
7.6 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
51.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Inez's Drive Inn in Tishomingo - where every meal feels like home.
Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant
53.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico at Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant in Tishomingo – where every meal is a fiesta!
Viva La Casita
53.1 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Viva La Casita in Tishomingo - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings
60.9 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
64.3 km
Experience hearty American cuisine at Logan's Roadhouse in Decatur – where every meal feels like home!
Scruggs BBQ
65.2 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Scruggs BBQ in Decatur - where flavor meets tradition.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
65.4 km
Experience American cuisine at its best at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Decatur - where flavor meets family-friendly fun!
Southern Style Barbeque
65.5 km
Experience authentic Southern barbeque at its finest in Decatur; savor smoky flavors and hearty dishes made with love.
Nash Barbeque
65.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Nash Barbeque in Decatur, Alabama – where every bite tells a story.
Chick-fil-A
66.1 km
Savor the flavors of Southern hospitality at Chick-fil-A in Decatur - where every meal is made with care.
Serrano's Mexican
66.6 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
66.9 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
67.1 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Bank Street Grill in Decatur, AL - where flavor meets hospitality.
Simp McGhee's
67.1 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
67.4 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
1.4 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
4.2 km
Explore The Homestead Mercantile in Florence, AL for unique gifts, local crafts, and a taste of Southern charm in every corner.
The Back 40 Boutique
5.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at The Back 40 Boutique in Muscle Shoals, Alabama – a treasure trove of Southern charm and creativity.
Books-A-Million
6.8 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.
Basse Trading Company
7.3 km
Explore Basse Trading Company in Tuscumbia, Alabama, where every antique tells a story and treasures await around every corner.
Boutique 72
8.8 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Boutique 72 in Tuscumbia, Alabama, where local artistry meets unique fashion finds.
Vintage South Marketplace
9.5 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
18.4 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
33.1 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
33.8 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
35.9 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
36.0 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
46.3 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
47.0 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
47.2 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
9.6 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine and sports excitement at Stell's Sports Grille in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Rattlesnake Saloon
26.0 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Rattlesnake Saloon, where delicious hamburgers meet a lively bar atmosphere in the heart of Alabama.
Frosty Inn
35.0 km
Experience delightful comfort food in a cozy atmosphere at Frosty Inn, a favorite dining spot in Russellville, Alabama.
Rancho Mexican Restaurant
36.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Rancho Mexican Restaurant, where authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Homestead Cafe
44.4 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality at Homestead Cafe, where comfort food meets charming ambiance in Spruce Pine, Alabama.
Swisher hotdogs
45.0 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
46.1 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Table 127 in Iuka, MS, where every meal is a delicious journey into local flavors.
Cream & Sugar Cafe
46.2 km
Discover the charm of Cream & Sugar Cafe in Iuka, MS—where delightful flavors and cozy ambiance meet southern hospitality.
Front Street Snack Bar
46.2 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
46.6 km
Discover the heart of Southern cuisine at B and J Cafe in Phil Campbell, Alabama, where comfort food and warm hospitality await.
Bian Garden
46.9 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Bian Garden in Iuka, MS – a culinary gem offering a diverse menu and warm hospitality.
Chuckwagon Cafe
46.9 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
47.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Santa Fe Mexican Grill in Iuka, Mississippi, where vibrant flavors and warm hospitality await.
Tri-State Crawfish & Produce
47.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Mississippi seafood at Tri-State Crawfish & Produce, a local favorite for fresh crawfish and Southern delights.
Lil Smokies
47.2 km
Discover the authentic taste of southern barbecue at Lil Smokies in Iuka, where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
