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Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area

The Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area (MSNHA), hosted by the University of North Alabama with offices in Florence, was officially designated by Congress in 2009. The MSNHA spans the six counties of north Alabama's Tennessee River waterbasin and was developed to help preserve the history of this region by focusing on three main themes: music, Native American heritage, and the Tennessee River. UNA Box 5231, Florence 35632

468 North Court Street Florence, AL 35630

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(256) 765-5028

Office open normal business hours

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Admission Charged

Some attractions are free; others charge admission

Office open normal business hours

(256) 765-5028

Getting There

North Alabama »

The Shoals »

Florence, AL

468 North Court Street
Florence, AL 35630

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Where to Stay

GunRunner Boutique Hotel

A 9 room Boutique Hotel in an historic building full of charm and character. It features a large common area perfect for corporate meetings, retreats and privacy. Suites are themed for area attractions and Alabama makers, like fashion designer Billy...

Comfort Suites

Book a room at the Comfort Suites hotel in Florence, AL

McFarland Park

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Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Florence

Conveniently located in the heart of the Shoals area, we are within walking distance of fantastic shops, restaurants and the historical district. From the rushing waters of the Tennessee River to the tranquil beauty of historic Florence, our convenie...

Holiday Inn Express

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Hampton Inn Florence Midtown

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The Stricklin Hotel

Nestled among the rich history and beauty of downtown Florence, The Stricklin Hotel guests will enjoy southern charm and hospitality as well as an atmosphere of timeless elegance, making every guest feel like The Stricklin is their home away from hom...

Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa

Treat yourself to upscale elegance at Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa. Our resort boasts an unbeatable location in Muscle Shoals, an area of vibrant music history. Come explore where Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding and Bob Dylan recorded some of their hits...

Upcoming Events

First Fridays Florence

Florence. First Fridays Florence. 877-290-8880. www.downtownflorencealliance.com/firstfridays. Free. Downtown Florence-- On the first Friday of each month from May through December, Historic Downtown Florence comes alive with art, music, shopping an...

Shoals Storytelling Festival

Storytelling festival featuring nationally and internationally known tellers. This event has become a tradition filled with laughter and one-of-a-kind memories. We are excited to be hosting a variety of professional storytellers as well as musicians ...

Arts Alive Festival

Stroll through beautiful Wilson Park and enjoy this juried fine arts and crafts festival featuring artists from across the country. Great food and art activities for children make this fun event for the whole family.

W.C. Handy Music Festival

The W.C. Handy Music Festival is a weeklong celebration of the musical heritage of northwest Alabama, honoring Florence native, W. C. Handy, "Father of the Blues." Over 200 events take place during the week, ranging from mini-concerts to headliner co...

St Florian Oktoberfest

Annual St. Florian Oktoberfest in St. Florian, Alabama

Shoals Dragon Boat Festival

Once you hear about dragon boat racing and become involved in this world of sport, community and fun, there is no turning back. There is much more to it than a great day on the water. There are different and interesting ways to experience the sport f...

First Fridays Florence 2023

Where to Eat

Riverside Restaurant

Riverside is a family restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Dick Howell's Barbecue

Barbecue restaurant in Florence, Alabama

Taco Garage

Taco Garage makes tacos your way, with perfectly-seasoned proteins and fresh toppings surrounded by a homemade tortilla. Our menu is filled with quality ingredients that are freshly prepared and served up fast. Dine In, Order Online or Delivery with...

Ricatoni's Italian Grill

Chicken and pasta, shrimp and pasta or lots of pizza that's Ricatoni's at its finest.

Singin' River Brewing Co.

We love to celebrate the variety of song that the Singing River brings with our brews for every taste. You will find a full range of beers including the smooth flavor of the Handy’s Gold and the rich, full taste of our Porter.

Trowbridge's Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop

Talk about love at first sight! In 1917, Paul Trowbridge stopped in Florence on his way to a dairy convention in North Carolina. He liked the area so much that he returned to Texas, packed his possessions and moved his family to Florence.

Smokin' On The Boulevard

Alabama Food's 2014 "Quest for the Best BBQ" Champion. Dry-Rub Hickory Smoked BBQ Meats. Carryout only. Thurs., Fri & Sat

360 Grille

Located at the Marriott Shoals Hotel and SPA, this revolving restaurant offers breathtaking views of Florence. Soak in the sights as you indulge in one of our signature cocktails, an expertly prepared steak, or a decadent dessert that is perfect for ...