Sheffield, Alabama has a fascinating story to be explored. It was the home of prehistoric people, Indian villages, and trading posts, and was the final destination for the first railroad in Alabama.
In the 1800s Creek as well as Cherokee Indians were forced from their homelands in the Trail of Tear conflict, and during Civil War times both armies were present.
The city’s name is derived from Sheffield in England which was well-known for its growing steel industry.
Nowadays, it’s more known as the site of Muscle Shoals Sound, Wilson Dam, and is located near the place of birth of Helen Keller – Ivy Green in Tuscumbia.
1. Spring Park, Sheffield
Spring Park in neighboring Tuscumbia is a stunning park with recreation opportunities for everyone in the family.
It is situated in Downtown Tuscumbia located just only a few miles from Sheffield The park is home to beautiful man-made waterfalls and an eddy fountain that changes its height and falls according to the beat of the music.
Children can enjoy the carousel, miniature train, and splash pad.
You can enjoy the company of friends over a picnic or run or walk under shaded trees You can do all of it here at Spring Park.
2. Helen Keller Birth Place, Sheffield
Helen Keller was left deaf and blind due to an illness in her childhood, but she used her experience to motivate herself and others around the world.
She learned a variety of languages in Braille she also wrote a number of papers and gave lectures throughout 39 nations.
The place where she was born and the family home for Ivy Green is located 2.5 miles away from Sheffield in Tuscumbia Visitors can go on a tour and discover antique furniture, books, and personal mementos from her life.
Each summer, a seven-day festival takes place at her old home, and the performances are held on the grounds and gardens.
3. Muscle Shoals Sound Studios, Sheffield
Muscle Shoals Sound Studios in Sheffield, Alabama was formed to compete with the nearby Fame Recording Studios by four session musicians who were dubbed”The Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section.
There have been many world-class vocalists and musicians recorded here through the years, including Aretha Franklin as well as Lynyrd Skynyrd and Rolling Stones.
Today, you can take an excursion to the studio where some of the biggest artists recorded their hits, check out analog instruments, and if you are a creative person you could even reserve studio time!
4. Wilson Dam, Sheffield
The dam is named after the former president of the United States, Woodrow Wilson This dam is located across the Tennessee River near Sheffield, Alabama.
Wilson Dam is one of several dams that lie along the river. It was constructed in order to provide electricity to the surrounding area. It can produce 663 megawatts of power.
It stands 42 meters in height and extends over 1,300 feet.
It is possible to see it in detail if you go through the dam, or get amazing photography opportunities by visiting Fleet Harbour or across the water at the Veteran’s Park. Florence.
5. Old Railroad Bridge, Sheffield
In the years before the Old Railroad Bridge was built the river crossing was utilized in the region by the Cherokee, Creek, and Chickasaw Indians.
In 1817 in 1817, The U.S Army led by Andrew Jackson made improvements to the military road and an e-ferry crossing was built.
In 1832 The Florence Bridge Company began to build a bridge over the river.
The bridge was destroyed by storms twice, but was rebuilt in 1850, and was reopened as double deck bridge for use as a bridge for wagons and livestock and also as a railway bridge, however, in 1862 as part of the American Civil War it was burnt to the ground.
The bridge was rebuilt in 1870. Today, tourists can walk across the bridge and enjoy stunning perspectives of the river, and think about the amazing historical events that took place there.
6. McFarland Park, Sheffield
Over the Tennessee River in Florence, Alabama There is McFarland Park, a picturesque park that has camping sites with fishing piers, a picnic area, trails for jogging, and a floating bar as well as a restaurant.
Summer is a great time to relax at the beach, stroll through trails, or take pictures of York Bluffs across the water.
There are a variety of museums within a couple of minutes walking distance if you want to know more about the local traditions.
It’s the perfect spot to spend a day with the family or for a picnic when you need to get away from your sightseeing.
7. Florence Indian Mound and Museum, Sheffield
At the end of McFarland Park lies the Florence Indian Mound as well as the Museum It is a fascinating site in which you can learn about the history of the early inhabitants of the area.
Displays and exhibits show evidence that the Tennessee River Valley was inhabited in the prehistoric era when tribes realized there were ample fish available in the rivers as well as fruit to hunt in the forest.
The museum has a variety of artifacts from the region. They range from old pottery pots, woven fabric pipes, tools, as well spearpoints.
With thousands of objects and relics within it, you’ll discover more about the early inhabitants of the area at this fascinating museum.
8. The Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rosenbaum House, Sheffield
The Rosenbaum House in Florence is an excellent example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian house concept.
The Usonian house was typically constructed in an L-shape. It was single-story and was designed for middle-income families during the 1930s.
These houses were built with native materials, and they offered solar heat and passive cooling for all climates.
You can visit this remarkable home, with its original furniture and landscaping, and find out what it was like in a Usonian home.
If you are a fan of architecture or you are a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs, this is the one that you should not leave out.
9. George’s Steak Pit, Sheffield
George’s Steak Pit in Sheffield, Alabama was founded in the 1950s and has remained the mainstay of the city since then.
A favorite among tourists and locals It’s popular for its open-pit cooking.
Freshly cooked fish, steaks, and chickens are cooked over hickory logs to impart smokey flavor and season to the food.
The menu is varied, the ambiance is elegant, and the staff is friendly and accommodating to specific diets.
If you’re staying in the vicinity and are looking for a place to eat after a long day of touring, George’s Steak Pit is an ideal option.
10. Tennessee Valley Museum of Art
Just a few miles away from Sheffield, Alabama, the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art is the home of historic art and artifacts, including the 3,000-pound rock that is known as Martin Petroglyph which shows artwork created by the prehistoric people.
Other unique objects include a Chickasaw beaded bandolier strap that was owned by chief George Colbert and a whole assortment of pottery, shell, or stone carvings.
Since the museum is near Helen Keller’s former residence and birthplace There is also an assortment of artifacts created by deaf and visually impaired children from Alabama.
11. Shopping at Florence Mall
If it’s shopping that you’re looking for go to Florence Mall in Downtown Florence, Alabama.
With more than 60 stores including a movie theater as well as a food court mall is able to meet all your requirements.
If you are looking for the latest trends, require haircuts, or are searching for electronics or shoes you’ll find them everywhere.
There are numerous cafes as well as fast food eateries and eateries too if you require a break from your daily shopping.
12. Go on a tour around FAME Recording Studios
Fame Recording Studios in nearby Muscle Shoals has catered to some of the greatest names in music throughout the years.
The studio was established in the 1950s after the founder Rick Hall discovered a new sound called the Muscle Shoals Sound.
Every musician from all over the globe would like to record here and the place became famous as a venue where musicians of all kinds regardless of race and religion, could gather to make music in a safe environment.
Today, you can take an excursion through the famous studios where Aretha Franklin Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding, and, more recently, Tim McGraw, Demi Lovato, and Kenny Chesney have all recorded music.
13. Tuscumbia Railroad Depot Museum
If you’re a fan of everything locomotive-related, you should make a visit to the famous Tuscumbia Railroad Depot Museum.
Tuscumbia is one of the first frontier towns on the railroad and in the present, visitors can discover this rich history inside the renovated depot that dates back to 1888. The museum houses an impressive photo gallery along with interactive railway simulators. The experienced staff members will give thorough demonstrations for interested visitors.
You can look through a variety of railroad memorabilia from trains, old railway locomotives, and carriages as well as maps and other information on the railroad.
A wonderful day for families with children as well as anyone interested in local history or trains.
14. The Ice Bar at Trowbridge’s Cream Bar
The restaurant in Florence was first established in 1918, one year following Paul Trowbridge stopped off in Florence while traveling across Texas towards North Carolina for a dairy convention.
Soon after the restaurant opened, he came up with an orange pineapple recipe for Ice cream. Over the years he would include more flavors of hot dogs, ice cream as well as homemade chili.
The restaurant/shop is operated by the third-generation Trowbridge’s and has retained the atmosphere of an old-fashioned diner that patrons enjoy.
The menu includes an array of delicious sweet and savory snacks, it’s a fantastic spot to grab an entrée when you visit the parks and museums of Florence.
15. Spring Creek Golf Course
If you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon of working on your putting swing, then head to Spring Creek Golf Course.
The course is opened in 1951 and has nine holes of enjoyment for intermediates, beginners, and experienced golfers.
The 36-par course is situated at Tuscumbia just a few miles from Sheffield So if you’re looking for a break from exploring and taking some time to relax from driving, consider putting your time there for a couple of hours.
Also, check the Top 14 Things to Do Selma of Alabama
