The area of northwestern Alabama known as The Shoals is home to several well-known Alabama attractions. Tuscumbia is Helen Keller’s birthplace and home, Sheffield is home to the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and Florence is a beautiful river city with a rich history. There is also a wide variety of outdoor recreation to enjoy at Pickwick Lake, Wheeler Lake, Wilson Lake and Coldwater Falls.
On this page:
What To See & Do
Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
Home to two 18-hole championship courses, “The Fighting Joe” and “The Schoolmaster.”
FAME Recording Studios
Step back in time at the studio where Aretha Franklin, Little Richard, Etta James, Otis Redding and others have recorded hit songs.
Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum
An American treasure, this house was built in 1939 and is the only Wright house in the southeast open to the public.
Alabama Music Hall of Fame
This site honors the musical achievements of Alabamians such as Tammy Wynette, the Commodores, Nat King Cole and Hank Williams.
Helen Keller’s Birthplace and Home
Built in 1820, Helen Keller’s home is located in Tuscumbia. See firsthand where this admired woman overcame her handicaps.
W.C. Handy Home, Museum and Library
See original sheet music, photos and other memorabilia of blues musician and composer W.C. Handy.
Where To Stay
Waterloo Campground
Located in Waterloo, this campground is open year-round and has 60 sites. Primitive camping is allowed.
Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa
The hotel has 200 guest rooms that overlook the Tennessee River and Wilson Dam.
Joe Wheeler State Park Lodge
This lodge offers a picturesque view and is situated on First Creek, just off the Tennessee River.
Doublehead Resort
Located on the waters of Wilson Lake, this resort offers waterfront cottages, private piers, a waterfall pool, quail hunting, fishing and more.
Where To Eat
Trowbridge’s
An old-fashioned sandwich shop in operation since 1918, Trowbridge’s is known for its signature orange-pineapple ice cream.
Rattlesnake Saloon
A truly unique dining experience in the shadows of a local cave. Stick around at night for live music and karaoke.
Claunch Café
Located in downtown Tuscumbia, this down-home restaurant features Southern home-style cooking.
New Orleans Transfer
Cravin' Cajun? This spicy spot brings the cuisine out of Louisiana and to Muscle Shoals.