When in Muscle Shoals, stay at the Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa, situated along the banks of the Tennessee River. It pays homage to the legacy of Muscle Shoals, has nightly live music at Swampers Bar & Grille, and houses an impressive Rolling Stones exhibit. From music murals, historic pictures, books, and memorabilia, each room at the Renaissance helps tell the story of the Shoals. In-room streaming of the 2013 award-winning documentary “Muscle Shoals” includes interviews with Rick Hall, the Swampers, and countless artists, and it’s easy homework for those intent on learning more about the magic that happened in this region. For stunning sunset views, make reservations to eat at 360 Grille, the only rotating restaurant in Alabama.
The GunRunner Boutique Hotel is another option conveniently located in downtown Florence. It was once a Chevrolet dealership but has since been repurposed to offer 10 uniquely themed rooms, centered on the GunRunner Bar, and a musically inspired common space celebrating the area’s roots. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a craft cocktail or head up to the rooftop for a better view of the city. The GunRunner is within walking distance of no shortage of restaurants, including Yumm, Wildwood, and Lost Pizza Co. Odette is a local favorite offering elevated, reimagined Southern cuisine.
On your way to Nashville, explore a stretch of the Americana Music Triangle’s “Gold Record Road,” one of the most popular driving routes in the world. From Florence, follow the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway to Leiper’s Fork. This tiny, trendy, unincorporated village is home to some of the best food, art galleries, and music venues in a Tennessee quarter mile. Make a pit stop at Fox & Locke to enjoy some comfort food, catch a live show, and check out their Muscle Shoals-themed bathroom. Yep, it’s a real thing! Serving up the best biscuits and gravy around is The Country Boy Restaurant, just across the street. In the basement of The Country Boy is the Tornado Room, a throwback speakeasy and intimate music venue.
And what goes best with a summer road trip? How about a playlist? The Country Music Hall of Fame has curated the playlist “Muscle Shoals: Low Rhythm Rising,” available on most music streaming platforms.
Just 30 minutes north, you’ll arrive at the Country Music Hall of Fame to experience their latest comprehensive, interactive exhibit. The Omni Nashville Hotel is located adjacent to the Country Music Hall of Fame and has on-site dining options, including Bob’s Steak and Chophouse and Barlines, but the biscuit bar at Kitchen Notes is next-level Southern goodness. In addition to the exhibit, consider adding a tour of RCA Studio B or Hatch Show Print. Carve out time to stroll along Lower Broadway to experience the lively honky-tonks, where new artists cut their teeth nightly in Music City. And no trip to Nashville is complete without experiencing a show at the Grand Ole Opry or the Ryman.
A summer road trip from Muscle Shoals to Nashville is quite simply a music lover’s dream.
