SHEFFIELD, ALABAMA
Nestled in the center of the Shoals, you will find Sheffield, the smallest of the four cities. Sheffield is a beautiful riverfront city rich in music history. Looking for the best view in the area? Head up to Sheffield’s bluff for gorgeous views of O’Neal Bridge and the Florence Harbor Marina.
History of Sheffield
In the early 1800s, General Andrew Jackson and his troops crossed the Tennessee River and entered the area that is known as Sheffield today. Their point of crossing was dubbed Jackson Hollow. Just two years later, General Jackson and his troops returned to Jackson Hollow and camped alongside the river.
Jackson loved the area so much that he recommended the site to the U.S. Secretary of War for the establishment of a town. In about 1818, the Secretary of War took his suggestion and laid out a town that they named York Bluff. In 1885, Jackson purchased a large portion of the land and renamed the area Sheffield.
Parks and recreation
Finding a relaxing and beautiful park near homes in Sheffield will not be difficult. There are several parks within or near the city, and one of the most popular ones is Riverfront Park on Alabama Avenue. Here, you will discover terrific amenities such as an immaculate playground, splash pad, scenic walking trails, picnic tables, fishing piers and boat docks.
Another favorite park in Sheffield is Whippoorwill Park located on North Montgomery Avenue. This park is a bird sanctuary where you will find hundreds of lovely birds and dozens of wildflower gardens. Other amenities include a Vietnam Memorial and several walking trails.
EVents
One of the most popular landmarks and walking trails in the area is the Old Railroad Bridge at the Tennessee Valley Authority Reservation. The bridge dates back to the 1800s and is the oldest remaining bridge in Alabama. The reservation also features several miles of gorgeous nature trails.
If you looking for shopping and dining, Sheffield’s walkable downtown is a great place to go. Here you can choose from a range of cuisines including New American, Mexican, Caribbean, sushi, and more! Some of our favorites include George’s Steak Pit for fine dining, Stephano’s Southland for hand tossed pizza, the Carriage Wine & Market, and Stanfield’s Eatery.
Attractions and Activities
While in Sheffield, be sure to check out the Ritz Theater that was a silent movie house in the 1920s and now a venue for films, plays, and musicals. Residents of Sheffield also enjoy participating in the Helen Keller Festival every June and the W.C. Handy Music Festival in July.
