Florence and Muscle Shoals

Florence and Muscle Shoals, separated by the Tennessee River in northwest Alabama, are two destinations that are frequently combined into one trip, not only because of their proximity but also because their attractions have a lot in common. American icons can be found in Florence and Muscle Shoals. These icons can take the form of individuals, architecture, musical movements, and so on, but they all have one thing in common: they have left their mark on American history.'

W.C. Handy, known as the "Father of the Blues," was born in Florence, north of the river. He was born in a small cabin in Florence in 1873, which is now a museum and library. Frank Lloyd Wright's Rosenbaum House is another must-see landmark in Florence. The home, built in 1940, is one of the finest examples of the famous architect's Usonian house concept and is open for tours.

If you've heard of the Muscle Shoals Sound, you're probably familiar with the town that bears its name, which is one of the best places to visit in Alabama for music fans. Fame Recording Studios, which are still in operation today, are located in Muscle Shoals and are open for tours). In addition to assembling two of the most formidable studio bands in American music history, this unlikely studio worked with Otis Redding, Etta James, Duane Allman, Paul Simon, the Rolling Stones, and many others.

Location: along the Tennessee River in the northern part of the state

Tripadvisor rating: 4.7/5

Best times to visit: October and August.