Fort Morgan, Alabama

Alabama, from Mobile through Montgomery north to Birmingham and Huntsville is alive with spring and summer fun. Mobile is the oldest city in the state and serves as its capital. Birmingham and the surrounding metro area is the largest population center. Travelers  around Birmingham can enjoy sites like the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, the National Historic Trail of Tears and Horseshoe Bend National Military Park. Spring and summer also brings terrific beach weather near Mobile, along Alabama's coastal shores on the Gulf of Mexico. Northern Alabama celebrates the 2010 75th Anniversary of the Ave Maria Grotto at the state's only Benedictine Abbey. This is a wonderful time to travel and enjoy the beauty of Alabama.

Athletes, kick-off summer right with Birmingham's Sterne Agee Triathlon. Hosted by the Levite Jewish Community Center, this is the first annual event. A great beginner race - the distances include a 200 yard swim, 8 mile bike (5 mile off-road option) and a 2 mile run. The 23rd Annual JRag Buster Britton Memorial Triathlon follows June 12th, with a bit more challenge. This triathlon is held just south of Birmingham, near Pelham, at beautiful Oak Mountain State Park. Racers or teams complete a 400 yard swim in the calm waters of Double Oak Lake, a 13 mile bike and 3 mile run. A terrific outdoor venue for family and friends to cheer on their favorites.

The Best Western at Oak Mountain is a convenient location for racers, situated just off I-65 in Pelham. Start the day right with the complimentary full breakfast and relax by the outdoor pool after the events. With affordable rates, consider making a full weekend stay to enjoy more of Birmingham's attractions.

Music fans, check your calendars ~ June 11th and 12th Riverfest 2010 will be held on the banks of the Coosa River in Gadsden. An amazing weekend of live music featuring top name headliners including; Tracy Lawrence, Kellie Pickler and KC and the Sunshine Band. Bring the family, there is great food, arts and crafts vendors and a kid's activity area inside Moragne Park. The Best Western Gadsden Hotel and Suites welcomes visitors to Riverfest. It is conveniently located off 1-59 and ideal for a weekend stay.

South on the Gulf Shore the 6th annual Hot Air Balloon Festival is held June 18 through the 20th in Foley. Celebrate Father's Day at the beach and marvel at the sight of over 45 hot-air balloons taking flight in the mornings and glowing at night. Along with the balloons, the events include live entertainment, arts and crafts, a frisbee dog show and, new for 2010, kites over 60 feet in size sailing over the gulf. A fun family event, great excuse for some beach time and a nice treat for Father's Day.

Decatur in northern Alabama hosts the Spirit of America Festival over the 4th of July weekend. The 2010 hot-air balloon festival will be held at Point Mallard Park marking the 43rd year for the event. The two day event features a balloon key grab, a car show and pageant, along with kid's activities, live performances and fireworks. The Best Western River City Hotel, just off Interstate 65 is convenient for travelers to Decatur. Spend a nice 4th of July enjoying Decaturs's festivities and relaxing by the outdoor pool.