Cities in Colbert County, Alabama
Colbert County is located in the northwestern part of Alabama, along the banks of the Tennessee River. Established in 1867, the county was named after George and Levi Colbert, Chickasaw Indian leaders who played significant roles in the region’s early history. Known as the gateway to the Muscle Shoals area, Colbert County has a rich musical and cultural heritage. The county has historically been an agricultural center, but it has also developed into a hub for manufacturing and tourism, thanks to its connection to the Tennessee River and the Muscle Shoals music scene. The county is home to five incorporated cities and towns: Tuscumbia, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, Leighton, and Littleville.
Tuscumbia
City Overview
Tuscumbia, the county seat of Colbert County, is one of the oldest cities in Alabama, founded in 1820. Originally called Ococoposa, the town was renamed after Chief Tuscumbia of the Chickasaw Nation. Tuscumbia developed as a trading post and agricultural center, growing rapidly due to its location near the Tennessee River and the development of the railroad. Today, Tuscumbia is known for its rich history, most notably as the birthplace of Helen Keller. The city’s downtown area is filled with historic buildings and homes, reflecting its deep Southern roots and cultural heritage.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 8,500
- Household Income: Median household income around $39,000
- Airports: Northwest Alabama Regional Airport (5 miles away), Huntsville International Airport (65 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 72, Alabama State Route 20, Alabama State Route 157
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Tuscumbia is best known for Ivy Green, the birthplace of Helen Keller, which has been preserved as a museum and historic site. Another key landmark is Spring Park, a scenic park featuring a waterfall, walking trails, and a carousel. The Alabama Music Hall of Fame, which highlights the state’s rich musical history, is also located in Tuscumbia. For accommodations, visitors can stay at the ColdWater Inn or other nearby hotels like the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa in Florence. Tuscumbia’s blend of history and charm makes it a popular destination for visitors exploring the Muscle Shoals area.
Muscle Shoals
City Overview
Muscle Shoals is known worldwide as the “Hit Recording Capital of the World,” thanks to its legendary recording studios that produced hits for artists like Aretha Franklin, The Rolling Stones, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Founded in the early 20th century, Muscle Shoals grew rapidly with the construction of Wilson Dam on the Tennessee River, which spurred economic development in the region. The city became an important industrial center, with major contributions to the aluminum and chemical industries. Today, Muscle Shoals continues to thrive as a manufacturing hub, while its music legacy draws fans from across the globe.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 14,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $53,000
- Airports: Northwest Alabama Regional Airport (2 miles away), Huntsville International Airport (65 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 72, Alabama State Route 133
Major Landmarks and Hotels
The most famous landmarks in Muscle Shoals are the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and Fame Recording Studios, where some of the most iconic songs in American music were recorded. The TVA’s Wilson Dam, built in the 1920s, is another significant site, providing hydroelectric power and offering scenic views of the Tennessee River. For accommodations, Muscle Shoals offers several options, including the Comfort Inn & Suites and Days Inn, while nearby Florence provides more upscale lodging like the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa. The city’s combination of musical history and industrial growth makes it a unique and vibrant part of Colbert County.
Sheffield
City Overview
Sheffield, located along the Tennessee River, is part of the Muscle Shoals metropolitan area and is steeped in musical and cultural history. Founded in 1885, Sheffield quickly grew as an industrial town due to its proximity to the river and the establishment of the railroad. Like its neighbor Muscle Shoals, Sheffield played a key role in the development of the region’s music industry, with artists flocking to local studios. In addition to its musical legacy, Sheffield’s history includes ties to the Civil War, and it remains a charming town with a strong sense of community.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 9,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $32,000
- Airports: Northwest Alabama Regional Airport (5 miles away), Huntsville International Airport (65 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 72, Alabama State Route 20
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Sheffield is home to several key landmarks, including the historic Ritz Theatre, which now serves as a venue for live performances, and the nearby W.C. Handy Home, Museum & Library, which honors the “Father of the Blues,” who was born in Florence but has strong ties to the area. The Tennessee Valley Art Association also operates the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art in Sheffield, featuring rotating exhibits and educational programs. For accommodations, Sheffield offers options like the Radisson Inn and local bed-and-breakfasts, while additional hotels can be found in Muscle Shoals and Florence.
Leighton
City Overview
Leighton is a small town located in the eastern part of Colbert County. Founded in the mid-19th century, the town was historically an agricultural community, with cotton being the primary crop. Over the years, Leighton has maintained its rural charm, with farming still playing a central role in the local economy. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere and small-town community spirit. Leighton is also part of the broader Muscle Shoals music story, with connections to local musicians who contributed to the region’s musical heritage.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 700
- Household Income: Median household income around $28,000
- Airports: Northwest Alabama Regional Airport (10 miles away), Huntsville International Airport (60 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 72, Alabama State Route 157
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Leighton is located near several significant historical and recreational sites. Key attractions include the Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic roadway that runs near the town, and the LaGrange College Site Park, which preserves the remains of Alabama’s first chartered college. While Leighton does not have many hotels, visitors can find accommodations in nearby Muscle Shoals or Tuscumbia, where options like the Comfort Inn & Suites and the ColdWater Inn offer comfortable stays for travelers exploring the area.
Littleville
City Overview
Littleville is a small town located in the northern part of Colbert County, near the county’s border with Franklin County. Incorporated in 1956, Littleville has maintained its rural charm while benefiting from its proximity to larger cities like Muscle Shoals and Sheffield. The town’s economy is based on local businesses, agriculture, and services, making it a quiet and peaceful place to live. Littleville’s location along U.S. Route 43 offers easy access to the surrounding area, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring Colbert County.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $42,000
- Airports: Northwest Alabama Regional Airport (10 miles away), Huntsville International Airport (65 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 43, Alabama State Route 157
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Littleville offers easy access to the recreational opportunities of the Tennessee River and the Natchez Trace Parkway, which runs nearby and offers hiking, biking, and scenic drives. The town is also close to several local parks and nature areas. While Littleville itself has limited hotel options, nearby Sheffield and Muscle Shoals provide a range of accommodations, including hotels like the Radisson Inn and Days Inn. Littleville’s rural charm and access to outdoor activities make it an attractive destination for those looking to explore Colbert County’s quieter side.
