Things to Do in The Shoals: A Local’s Guide to Alabama’s Hidden Gem

It’s wild to think I’ve lived in The Shoals—specifically Florence—for nearly two years now, and still feel like I’m just scratching the surface. If you’re curious why we moved here in the first place, check out my post [Why We Moved to Florence, Alabama (And Why We Love It)]. What started as a leap of intuition turned into a rooted love for this region. We bought a home we hope to keep long-term—not just because it’s a smart investment, but because it truly feels like home.

The Shoals refers to four distinct but closely connected towns—Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield—clustered along the Tennessee River. The name “The Shoals” comes from the shallow, rocky stretches of the river that once made navigation tricky, but also gave this place its character. Long before these cities existed, this land was sacred to Native American tribes, particularly the Chickasaw and Cherokee, who saw the river not just as a resource, but a spiritual being. If you’re interested in learning more about the deep roots here, check out my post [From Mounds to Music: The Deep History of The Shoals].

One of the most surprising things about living here is how many transplants I’ve met—people from New York, California, Texas (like me), and all over—who came for different reasons but stayed for the same one: there’s something undeniably special about this place. The Shoals has always felt like one of America’s best kept secrets—and this guide is my small way of sharing it with you.

Florence
Muscle Shoals
Tuscumbia
Sheffield

Festival and Events in the shoals
Where to eat in the shoals
where to stay in the shoals
20 of the Best Nature Adventures Near The Shoals in Alabama

Memphis
Huntsville
Chattanooga
Atlanta
Nashville
Birmingham