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The 20 Best Things to do in Muscle Shoals, AL

Natchez Trace Parkway

Muscle Shoals is located in northwest Alabama, just south of the Tennessee River. The city is home to several notable music studios, which have worked with a variety of famous musicians over the years. Muscle Shoals is also home to the Alabama Music Hall of Fame. The city has a population of just over 13,000 people, and the median income is just over $37,000 per year. Muscle Shoals is a relatively affordable place to live, with a cost of living that is slightly below the national average. The city has a moderate climate, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s in the winter to the mid-80s in the summer. Muscle Shoals is a great place to live or visit during your holiday. The city has a rich musical history, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Here are the 20 best things to do in Muscle Shoals, AL.

WC Handy

20. WC Handy Home & Museum

The WC Handy Home & Museum is located in the historic district of Muscle Shoals. According to Colbert County, the museum is dedicated to the life and work of WC Handy, who is considered to be the father of the blues. The museum features a variety of artifacts, including musical instruments, photographs, and records. Visitors can also take a tour of the WC Handy House, which is a National Historic Landmark. You can find the WC Handy Home & Museum at 620 W Tennessee St, Muscle Shoals, AL 35661.

FAME Studio

19. FAME Studio in Muscle Shoals

FAME Studio is one of the most famous music studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. It was founded in 1959 by four local musicians: Rick Hall, Tom Stafford, Billy Sherrill, and Jerry Wexler. The studio was originally located in an old tobacco warehouse on the banks of the Tennessee River. The studio's first hit record was Percy Sledge's "When a Man Loves a Woman" in 1966. The studio has since been responsible for several other hits, including Aretha Franklin's "Respect", Wilson Pickett's "In the Midnight Hour", and the Staple Singers' "I'll Take You There". In recent years, the studio has been used by several high-profile artists, including Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, and Keith Richards.

Muscle Shoals Sound Studio

18. Muscle Shoals Sound Studio

Muscle Shoals Sound Studio is another famous recording studio in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. It was founded in 1969 by four former members of the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, who had left FAME Studios. The studio was responsible for recording some of the biggest hits of the 1970s, including The Rolling Stones' "Brown Sugar" and Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Free Bird." The studio is now owned by the Alabama Music Hall of Fame. This studio is open to the public for tours, which are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history of Muscle Shoals music. According to Tripadvisor, Visitors can see the control room, where all the magic happened, and even get a chance to play some of the instruments used in recordings.

Alabama Music Hall of Fame

17. Alabama Music Hall of Fame

The Alabama Music Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to preserving the history of music in the state of Alabama. The museum is located in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the state's musical heritage. If you want to learn about the history of music in Alabama, the Alabama Music Hall of Fame is the perfect place to go. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events that are open to the public.

LaGrange College Site

16. LaGrange College Site Park

It is one of the oldest college campuses in the state of Alabama. The beautiful LaGrange College Site Park features a two-story Greek revival-style building that was used as a girls' boarding school from 1831 to 1856. The park also has a playground, picnic tables, and a walking trail. This site is now a pioneer village with several log cabins that were built in the early 1800s. These cabins were moved here from their original locations and have been restored to their original condition. The LaGrange College Site Park is open daily from dawn to dusk and is located at 900 Alabama Avenue, Muscle Shoals, AL.

Florence Indian Mound

15. Florence Indian Mound and Museum

The Florence Indian Mound is a National Historic Landmark and museum located in Florence, Alabama. The mound is the largest Mississippian culture ceremonial mound in the southeastern United States. The museum has exhibits about the mound, the people who built it, and the history of the area. You can also take a hike to the top of the mound for a view of the Tennessee River. The Florence Indian Mound and Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Ritz Theatre

14. Ritz Theatre

It is a performance theatre that was built in the early 20th century and has been restored to its original condition. It is one of the few historic theatres left in the area and is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. This theatre hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and other live performances. Some of the most well-known musicians who have performed here include Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, and B.B. King. The Ritz Theatre is a beautiful and unique place to visit and have fun.

Pope's Tavern

13. Pope’s Tavern

You can't miss Pope's Tavern if you're visiting Florence, Alabama. The historic building served many functions over the years including a stagecoach stop, post office, tavern, and general store. Pope's Tavern is one of the most popular places to visit in Florence due to its rich history and interesting architecture. According to Justgoplacesblog, The building was constructed in 1832 and is one of the best examples of Federal-style architecture in the state. Today, Pope's Tavern is a museum that is open to the public for tours. Visitors can see original artifacts on display and learn about the fascinating history of this important building.

Garden Gate

12. Garden Gate Café

Garden Gate Café is a great place to enjoy some southern cooking. The restaurant is located in an old Victorian house and has a beautiful garden that you can enjoy while you eat. The menu features items such as fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and catfish. You can also get a great cup of coffee or a glass of wine at the café. The Garden Gate Café is located at 1005 N. Court Street in Florence, Alabama. The hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm and Sunday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.

360 Grille

11. 360 Grille Revolving Restaurant

360 Grille Revolving Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly unique dining experience. Located atop the Renaissance Tower in downtown Florence, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the cityscape and the Tennessee River. The menu features a variety of upscale American fare, and the wine list is impressive as well. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as the restaurant is quite popular.

Pickwick Lake

10. Pickwick Lake

Pickwick Lake is a beautiful body of water that is perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, and other water activities. The lake is located in northwest Alabama and is part of the Tennessee River. There are many different parks and recreation areas around the lake where you can enjoy the outdoors. Several public beaches and parks offer access to the lake, as well as numerous boat rental companies.

Old Railroad Bridge

9. Old Railroad Bridge

The Old Railroad Bridge is a historic bridge that spans the Tennessee River in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The bridge was built in 1891 and is one of the oldest bridges in the state. The bridge is now used as a pedestrian bridge and is open to the public. This bridge is one of the landmarks in Muscle Shoals and is a great place to take a walk or just enjoy the views of the river. The bridge is also a popular spot for fishing and is a great place to catch some of the local fish.

Wilson Lock and Dam

8. Wilson Lock and Dam

There's something so peaceful about watching the barges slowly make their way up and down the Tennessee River. At Wilson Lock and Dam, you can do just that. The dam is also a great spot for fishing, so bring your rod and reel! It's just a short drive from Muscle Shoals. The dam is also a great spot for fishing, so bring your rod and reel! It's just a short drive from Muscle Shoals.

Ivy Green

7. Ivy Green

Ivy Green is the birthplace of Helen Keller and is a National Historic Landmark. The property includes the main house, several outbuildings, and a flower garden. Visitors can take a tour of the house, and learn about Keller's life and work. It was built in 1820 by Keller's father, Colonel Arthur H. Keller, and is located in the historic district of Florence, Alabama. Ivy Green is open daily for tours, and there is no charge for admission.

River Heritage Park

6. River Heritage Park

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors, River Heritage Park is the perfect spot. Located on the Tennessee River, the park offers stunning views, walking and biking trails, a playground, and a riverfront pavilion. It is a great place to relax, take a stroll, and take in the natural beauty of the area. In the spring and summer, the park comes alive with color as the flowers bloom and the trees leaf out. The park is also a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and bird watching. There is no admission fee to enter the park and it is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Tuscumbia Railroad Depot Museum

5. Tuscumbia Railroad Depot Museum

The Tuscumbia Railroad Depot Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Muscle Shoals and the Tennessee Valley. The museum has a variety of exhibits that chronicle the area's railroad history, including a model of the Tuscumbia Railroad Depot and a caboose. The historic site also features a walking trail, picnic areas, and a playground. The Tuscumbia Railroad Depot Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Indian Mound and Museum

4. Indian Mound and Museum

The Indian Mound and Museum is a great place to learn about the area's Native American history. The mound was built by the Chickasaw tribe and was used as a burial ground. The museum has a collection of artifacts from the mound, as well as other Native American sites in the area. According to Foodnews, There are many things to see and do at the Indian Mound and Museum. You can tour the mound, view the artifacts in the museum, or take part in one of the many educational programs offered. The Indian Mound and Museum is a great place to learn about the area's Native American history.

Tom's Wall

3. Tom’s Wall

Tom’s Wall is a local favorite in Muscle Shoals. It is a great place to take a walk, run, or just relax. The wall is made of concrete and is covered in graffiti. It is located on the banks of the Tennessee River. The wall is named after Tom Basham, who was the owner of the property on which the wall is located. Basham allowed graffiti artists to paint the wall in exchange for their promise to not damage the property. The wall has been featured in local and national publications, and it was even used as a backdrop for a music video by the band Alabama Shakes.

Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House

2. Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House

The Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House is one of the only houses designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright that is open to the public. According to Rovology, the Rosenbaum House was built in 1939 and is an excellent example of Wright's "Usonian" style of architecture. Visitors to the house can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the house and see some of Wright's original furniture and design elements.

Natchez Trace Parkway

1. Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive through three states that commemorates the historic Natchez Trace trade and travel corridor. The parkway winds its way through forests, farmlands, and wetlands, and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking along the route. In Muscle Shoals, the parkway follows the Tennessee River and there are several places to access the river for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Conclusion

Muscles Shoals is a great place to visit if you're looking for a mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities. There's something for everyone in this small town, and you're sure to have a memorable trip. You will be able to find plenty of live music, delicious food, and interesting museums. Be sure to check out some of the best things to do in Muscle Shoals, AL during your visit.

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Liz Flynn

Written by Liz Flynn

Liz Flynn has worked as a full-time writer since 2010 after leaving a career in education. She finds almost all topics she writes about interesting, but her favorite subjects are travel and food. Liz loves the process of researching information, learning new things, and putting into words what others who share her interests might like to read. Although she spends most of her time writing, she also enjoys spending time with her husband and four children, watching films, cooking, dining out, reading, motorsports, gaming, and walking along the beach next to her house with her dog.

Read more posts by Liz Flynn

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