Alabama's Enchanting City On The Tennessee River Has Gardens, Parks, And A Charming Downtown

The longest river in Alabama is the Tennessee River, which runs for 652 miles horizontally through the northern part of the state. Along its banks, there are many bustling towns with charming recreation and historic significance. For instance, Guntersville is Alabama's best-kept secret with a beach complex and fun shops. Farther down the river in the northwestern corner of Alabama is the Tuscumbia, known as the "charm of the Shoals" on its official website. Serving as the historic seat of Colbert County, Tuscumbia features museums, a downtown park, and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame. There are also many options for the outdoors with the nearby Cane Creek Nature Preserve, Coldwater Falls in Spring Park, and gardens at the Ivy Green house. 

Tuscumbia's current success is due to its history as a major trade destination along steamboat routes on the Tennessee River and early railroad routes. First established in 1830, the Tuscumbia Railroad Co. was the first of America's tracks to head west of the Allegheny Mountains into the American Frontier. It was this success that allowed the construction of another line connecting Tuscumbia to Decatur — an underrated Alabama city that is currently one of the cheapest places to retire in the country. It strives to preserve the buildings and downtown area, with over 200 years of history. Visitors today can visit many of the city's earliest buildings and brush up on its railroad history at the Tuscumbia Railroad Depot Museum. 

Tuscumbia is located about 60 miles west of Huntsville International Airport and is easy to reach by car, but there are no direct public transit lines. If you plan on having an extended stay here, you have a few options, such as the Coldwater Inn and the Best Western Plus Tuscumbia/Muscle Shoals Hotel & Suites.

At the center of downtown is the Colbert County Courthouse, which houses the local county government. It was built in 1882 and is the crown of the Tuscumbia National Historic District. Many of these structures feature a range of 19th-century architectural styles. The county courthouse in particular features the Greek Revival style with white columns, a grand entryway, and a triangular pediment. Included in the city's roster of historic buildings is the Belle Monte Mansion. This home from 1828 proudly displays the Palladian style that embodies the South. Catch a guided tour or visit during the annual October quilt show for the most hands-on experience.

Another historic location worth seeing is Ivy Green, a beautiful house that's home to maintained gardens and an inspiring story of bravery. It is the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller. At only 18 months old, she became visually and hearing impaired after a serious illness. Despite her impediments, she still learned how to speak thanks to her teacher, Annie Sullivan. Keller dedicated her life to advocating for the hearing and visually impaired, with the Lions Club International Foundation, even giving a famous speech for their support. Visitors are allowed to explore the gardens around the house and take an hour-long guided tour about Helen Keller's legacy.

For more upbeat downtown fun, stop by the Alabama Music Hall of Fame to learn about the state's most accomplished musicians. In an exhibit hall that spans 12,500 square feet, witness important musician memorabilia. Exhibits include Nat King Cole, The Commodores and their costumes, Hank Williams, and plenty more. For a $15 ticket for adults and less for children and seniors, visitors experience a museum of music history.

If the weather permits and the park gates are open, head to Spring Park in Tuscumbia's downtown area. At the heart of the park is a lake with several jet fountains that can leap up to 150 feet in the air. At night, the fountain is coordinated with a beautiful light show. Impossible to miss is the huge Coldwater Falls that flows into the lake. This man-made waterfall was made from 2,000 tons of sandstone and is 42 feet tall. It channels over 4 million gallons of water every day. The park also has a carousel, a miniature train ride, and a small rollercoaster for children, but reviewers have said these attractions are often closed. For details on what is open at Spring Park, check out the Spring Park Facebook page.

Tuscumbia's other outdoor area is located 10 miles southwest of the city – Alabama's Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve, a tranquil canyon with waterfalls and trails hidden in the hills. The Land Trust of North Alabama owns this 693-acre property and opens the nature preserve to the public every weekend from Friday to Sunday. Though the nature preserve is free, visitors are required to stop at the visitor support station in the parking lot to sign in and get a parking permit for their vehicle. Once inside, guests can enjoy up to 15 miles of hiking trails along the canyon and visit the preserve's 12 waterfalls. The Cane Creek Canyon Trail goes through the canyon and is classified as a moderately difficult hike. On this trail, visitors can enjoy the canyon views, wildflower spots, pioneer cabins, and shallow creeks for a restorative afternoon.