I'm driving from the Jacksonville area to Birmingham, AL for the holidays. I'm not sure if I should go up through Georgia to the Atlanta area then over, or if it would be best to drive I-10 west then up through Dothan and Montgomery. Opinions? Any word on recent road construction? Best BBQ?

I'd go to Atlanta then over.

The Interstate is faster and much better. Better places to stop off. On the other hand, I-10 is fine, but the drive from Dothan to Montgomery can be a real chore if you get into ANY traffic whatsoever. Additionally, the drive from Montgomery to Birmingham seems like the longest stretch of interstate EVER, and it is infamous for speed traps. If you do decide to go that way, do be careful for the policemen staking out there!

Which part of Birmingham are you going to? The only reason I would even consider taking the Dothan-Montgomery route would be if you are driving to a part of Birmingham that is on the Montgomery side (Pelham, Alabaster, etc). It could shave off a few minutes of travel time through B'ham if you came through during heavy traffic.

Not sure about construction through Florida and Georgia. In Alabama there is construction on the Interstate after you come into the state, coming in to Birmingham. There are still several lanes open, though. You'll have to slow down and go the actual speed limit, but it shouldn't be standstill traffic or anything. Also, there was a recent problem at the interchange in Birmingham where I-59/20 meets I-65 (heading to the south part of B'ham). If you need to take that ramp, be sure it is still open. Alternatively, you can just get off 20/59 earlier, at either 459 or 280. If you tell me where you are headed in B'ham I can help you further if you think you need it.

Drive safely!

Thanks for the quick reply. We are actually going to Hoover which appears to be a good bit south of Birminham proper.

I'd still go through Atlanta if Hoover's your destination. Hoover is in the southern area of B'ham but it is still easy to access from the interstate and not on the outskirts of town by any means. I'd come in 20/59, and take I-459 to Hoover. You'll totally cut out going through Birmingham and head straight towards your destination that way. Have a nice trip!

Best BBQ: Dreamland! At least that was the case 7-8 years ago.

Dreamland is ALWAYS the best BBQ!! We keep jard of sauce on hand for when we BBQ at home.

But that's in Birmingham, not along the drive on the way.

Another good BBQ spot is in Hoover, where you are staying, Marci. Jim 'n' Nicks is on Hwy 31 near the Galleria mall.

Sorry--that's "jars" of sauce!

Thanks guys!