Muscle Shoals Sound Studio Tour in Sheffield Alabama
Active
40m
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In 1969 the Swampers founded Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and within months they were attracting hit recording artists from around the world who came to them in search of the signature sound that forever changed American music. Through the generosity of Beats Electronics the legendary studio has been authentically restored. From the vintage equipment in the control room upstairs to the orange carpet in the Swampers' party room downstairs, the building looks exactly as it did during those magical years between 1969 and 1978. Peek into the bathroom where Keith Richards put the finishing touches on Wild Horses or sit at the piano that Paul Simon played on Kodachrome.
Available options
Guided Tour
Tour
What's included
Professionally Guided Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour is of the iconic studio that produced hundreds of hit records including hits by the Rolling Stones, Bob Seger, Boz Scaggs, Paul Simon, The Staple Singers, Leon Russell, Rod Stewart, Rival Sons, Linda Rondstadt and many more. The studio is still a working studio. Merch for sale to support our operations that are managed by a 501C3 non-profit. We are requiring masks currently and limiting capacity in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
56 reviews
5★
54
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
121 reviews
5★
113
4★
5
3★
1
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Show Viator Voucher as proof of purchase to participate in Tour
Parking is on-site.
Important notes
• Muscle Shoals Sound Studio - 3614 Jackson Highway, Sheffield, Alabama, 35660
• Please arrive 15-minutes prior to departure to check-in
• Please show Viator Voucher as proof of purchase.
About Alabama
Alabama, located in the southeastern region of the United States, is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement and its diverse landscapes ranging from beaches to mountains, Alabama offers a unique blend of southern charm and outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
This park features the USS Alabama, a World War II battleship, and the USS Drum, a submarine. It's a must-visit for history buffs.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate ($20-$30)
Gulf State Park
A beautiful park with beaches, hiking trails, and a golf course. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to enter, activities may have fees
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
A museum dedicated to the Civil Rights Movement, offering a powerful and educational experience.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate ($15-$25)
Noccalula Falls Park
A scenic park featuring a 90-foot waterfall, hiking trails, and a petting zoo.
Nature
2-3 hours
Budget-friendly ($5-$10)
Huntsville Botanical Garden
A 112-acre garden featuring a variety of plants, a butterfly house, and seasonal displays.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate ($15-$25)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fried Green Tomatoes
Sliced unripe tomatoes coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy, often served with remoulade sauce.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Gulf Shrimp and Grits
Creamy grits topped with sautéed Gulf shrimp, often flavored with bacon, onions, and peppers.
Main Course
Can be made gluten-free
Biscuits and Gravy
Fluffy biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy, a classic Southern breakfast dish.
Breakfast
Contains gluten and dairy
Peach Cobbler
A warm, sweet dessert made with fresh Alabama peaches, topped with a buttery crust.
Dessert
Contains gluten and dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Museum visits
Historic site tours
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Crowds are moderate, and the scenery is beautiful with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in fall.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Vietnamese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6) / CDT (UTC-5) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Alabama is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
Getting there
By air
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport • 10 km from downtown
- Huntsville International Airport • 16 km from downtown
By train
Amtrak Station (Birmingham)
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station (Birmingham), Greyhound Bus Station (Mobile)
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient for getting around Birmingham. The system includes local and express routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Birmingham
Gulf Shores
Huntsville
Mobile
Day trips
Natchez Trace Parkway
320 km from Birmingham • Full day
A scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes of Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee.
Florence and Muscle Shoals
240 km from Birmingham • Full day
A visit to the historic music scene of Muscle Shoals and the charming town of Florence.
Chickasabogue Park
160 km from Birmingham • Half day
A beautiful park with hiking trails, a lake, and picnic areas.
Festivals
National Shrimp Festival • October
Hangout Music Festival • May
Alabama Renaissance Faire • October
Pro tips
- Visit the Civil Rights Institute in Birmingham for a powerful and educational experience
- Explore the Gulf Coast beaches for a relaxing and scenic getaway
- Try the local cuisine, including fried green tomatoes, Gulf shrimp and grits, and barbecue
- Check out the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville for a fascinating look at space exploration
- Take a day trip to the Natchez Trace Parkway for a scenic drive through beautiful landscapes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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