MUSCLE SHOALS
Most famously known as “The Hit Recording Capital of the World, ” Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is located southeast of Florence and is the largest city in Colbert County. This city is, among other cities in the Shoals area, abundant in history, especially music. Just east of town is the Northwest Alabama Regional Airport.
Brief History of Muscle Shoals
Prior to the arrival of those of European descent, the area that is now Muscle Shoals was a Cherokee hunting ground. After the Revolutionary War, the Cherokees were divided into two groups. The Chickamauga were opposed to the settlement of the area by outsiders. In the late 18th century, they consistently opposed attempts by settlers to establish communities here. The federal government did not fully succeed in taking control of the area until after the War of 1812, when it mounted a full invasion of Creek territories.
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and Wilson Lock and Dam are located in Muscle Shoals, and they include many secluded hiking, walking and biking trails. TVA also has beautiful outlooks of O’Neal Bridge and great fishing spots.
Muscle Shoals is home to Robert Trent Jones Golf Course and Cypress Lakes Golf Course. These two golf courses have options for all skill levels, and Cypress Lakes also has access to tennis courts. Robert Trent Jones Golf Course is known as one of the nicest in the Shoals area, especially because it’s on the river.
The main park located in Muscle Shoals is Gattman Park. This park includes a splash pad, playground and picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for families to spend time.
Parks and recreation
Because Muscle Shoals is known as “The Hit Recording Capital of the World,” the most famous attractions are FAME Studios and the Muscle Shoals Sound Studios Jackson Highway building. Many well-known artists recorded at FAME and Muscle Shoals Sound including Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, Percy Sledge, Etta James, Bob Seger, Jason Isbell, Gary Nichols and even The Rolling Stones. The list of infamous names that recorded hits in Muscle Shoals could go on and on.
