re: Anyone here been to the Muscle Shoals area?

Definitely not a ton of hot spots. Fame is being run as an operating studio again, and it might not be what you expect.

The Shoals/Florence area has some reputable golf courses and the Tennessee runs through there. Some good outdoor activity.

Huntsville is nearby with more to do. Downtown has improved over the last few years, more bars, microbrews, etc.

If that's not enough, Nashville is up the road. Lynchburg, too. I've enjoyed the Jack Daniels.