There’s more than just music on the road from Birmingham to Muscle Shoals, in a state that’s often overshadowed by its louder neighbours, Tennessee and Louisiana. There’s a lot of history, and plenty to see, but the one thing that’s for certain is you’re going to eat a lot of good barbecue.
RICK MCGINNIS PHOTOS
Charlemagne Record Exchange: Still run by the original owners who started it in 1977, this mainstay of the Five Points neighbourhood of Birmingham is packed from floor to rafters with not only vinyl, but a healthy selection of CDs and even cassettes....
Bunyan’s: Everyone in Alabama has a strong opinion about barbecue, and this roadside joint with a handful of picnic tables in Florence has fans who drive for miles for its hot dogs and pulled pork, dressed on top with a spicy slaw that’s unique to the...
Hassinger Daniels Mansion Bed & Breakfast: Every room in this carefully restored and heritage-landmarked 1898 mansion is unique, with names such as the Camelot, Hera’s Lair and the Vulcan. Owner Sheila Chaffin does a nice breakfast, and leaves out a...
Butts to Go: At the Pell City Texaco convenience store, Wade Reich smokes Boston butts — pork butts, the best cut for pulled pork. The store is known for its ribs and a spectacular side made with roast potatoes and sour cream. Pro tip: seating’s...
Hot and Hot Fish Club: Are you ready for some fusion? Chef Chris Hastings won the James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef of the South award in 2012 for his twists on southern staples, such as the chicken-fried steak with Wagyu beef. It’s just a short walk...
Saturn: This space-themed nightclub in the Avondale area of Birmingham was started by Brian Teasley of instrumental punk band Man or Astro-man? in 2015. The club caters to many musical tastes. The coffee served next door at Satellite — which becomes a...
Barber Motorsports Museum: Chopper curator George Barber has the world’s largest collection of motorcycles — some 1,500 — at his racetrack outside Birmingham. It’s a spectacular display in a magnificent building that’s about to get bigger with the...