Birmingham, Alabama is in the heart of the state with attractions like the Sloss Furnaces and Civil Rights landmarks like the 16th Street Baptist Church. But it's also well located to explore other parts of the state. It’s easy to pick up your rental car downtown or at the airport and return to your hotel in the evening. Montgomery Distance from … [Read more...] about 5 Easy Day Trips from Birmingham
Muscle Shoals
The South’s Best Lesser-Known Music Cities
Earlier this year, I wrote a story for Fodor's about America's best music cities beyond the places you usually hear about. The South, in particular, is a region rich in music culture, especially in Nashville, Memphis, Atlanta, and New Orleans. But these places are far from the only ones. Even this list isn't exhaustive, leaving out other musically inclined destinations like … [Read more...] about The South’s Best Lesser-Known Music Cities
A Music Fan’s Guide to Muscle Shoals
It all connects to the river. The music, the history, the atmosphere. It's one of the most influential places in American music history. You might be thinking of Nashville or Memphis or even Los Angeles. But it's actually a small town in North Alabama, or rather a grouping of towns, all dotted along the Tennessee River: Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, Tuscumbia, and … [Read more...] about A Music Fan’s Guide to Muscle Shoals
Where to Go (in the South) in 2016
It's the time of year when we start planning upcoming adventures. There are so many places I recommend visiting in the South, but 2016 will be an important year for many reasons. Each of these destinations has been thoughtfully selected for what is new and exciting in the state. So start searching for transportation deals and prepare to pack your bags! Orlando, … [Read more...] about Where to Go (in the South) in 2016
Small Town Saturday: Muscle Shoals, AL
The area known as Muscle Shoals, Alabama may only have a population of less than 15,000, but it is known around the world for its musical influence. Called the "Muscle Shoals Sound," the two studios here are where artists like Otis Redding, the Rolling Stones, and Lynyrd Skynard recorded albums. One of the former studios now offers tours for visitors. Apart from music, Muscle … [Read more...] about Small Town Saturday: Muscle Shoals, AL