ALABAMA-ALASKA-ARIZONA-ARKANSAS-CALIFORNIA
ALABAMA
Dauphin Island – Dauphin Island
Dauphin Island is a small, quiet, low-key island surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay. Known for its great fishing, Dauphin plays host to an annual fishing "rodeo," where participants buckle down to compete for prizes. The island also has a historical Civil War fort, SeaLab, and Audubon Sanctuary, just to name a few. Simplicity rules and relaxation is mandatory.
109 Bienville Blvd.
Dauphin Island, AL 36528
251-861-3607
http://www.dauphinisland.org
Dobbs Famous Bar-B-Cue – Dothan
According to Alabama natives, this is the best place for Bar-B-Cue in the world! They say that you've never had Bar-B-Cue unless you've tried it Southern Alabama style. The secret seems to be in the tomato-based sauce used with chicken and pork (not beef). Do not miss the Brunswick Stew and Sweet Tea (for you out-of-towners, that means the tea has been sweetened before it gets to the table!). Dobbs Famous is a family-owned restaurant, which has been around since 1948--you may want to get here early because lunches are packed.
2636 S. Oates St.
Dothan, AL 36301
334-794-5195
Downtown Fairhope – Fairhope
Established on the Eastern shore of Mobile Bay in the late 1800s, Fairhope is a small community with a unique involvement in the arts. This commitment attracts people from around the world, resulting in a “delightfully picturesque” town of eclectic shops, restaurants, B&Bs;, and museums. A laid-back Southern secret, Fairhope is well-worth the stop.
City of Fairhope
PO Drawer 429
Fairhope, AL 36533
251-928-2136
Dreamland Bar-B-Que – Tuscaloosa
“Best ribs in the world – ain't nothin’ like ‘em nowhere!” The original Dreamland Cafe was opened by John “Big Daddy” Bishop 50 years ago near the University of Alabama, and it hasn’t changed much since. The quaint dining room boasts a big bar, a few tables, booths, and a pot-bellied stove. The down-home atmosphere is simple, but the barbeque is legendary.
5535 15th Ave. E.
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-758-8135
http://www.dreamlandbbq.com/bham.asp
The Jazz Factory – Huntsville
Nestled in the center of a historic Southern town, this place has everything…great food, great drinks, great atmosphere and most importantly, fantastic jazz.
109 North Side Square
Huntsville, AL 35801
256-539-1919
The Natural Bridge Park – Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge was formed by an underwater river millions of years ago. Spanning 148 feet, it's the largest natural bridge east of the Mississippi. Its natural setting contains many different species of flora and fauna, which can be explored through numerous hiking trails.
Highway 278 Box 342
Natural Bridge, AL 35577
205-486-5330
Silver Lakes (Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail) – Glencoe
With beautiful scenic holes and peaceful surroundings, Silver Lakes is one of the best courses on “The Trail.” Without a doubt, this is a must-play for any golf enthusiast.
167 Sunbelt Parkway
Birmingham, AL 35211
800-949-4444
Bankhead National Forest – Double Springs
With towering hulks of poplar, flowered forest floors and hundreds of cascades feeding into a primative stream, the Bankhead National Forest and Sipsey Wilderness would seem better suited for a J.R. Tolkien map than a road atlas. The wild topography of this Alabama treasure can make for a charming walk in the woods or weeks of backcountry exploring. Spring is the best time to visit, as summer can become overgrown and unbearably hot. Remember to tread lightly, and keep this hidden gem clean and beautiful!
Bankhead National Forest
PO Box 278 (1070 Highway 33 N)
Double Springs, AL 35553
205-489-5111
http://www.sipseywilderness.org/
Tacky Jacks – Orange Beach
There’s generally a line for Tacky Jacks’ mean grouper sandwich, so grab a drink, take a seat, and marvel at the waterfront setting of the Alabama Pass. For most, the wait is the best part.
PO Box 272
Orange Beach, AL 36561
251-981-4144
W.C. Handy Festival – Florence
Each summer, performers from across the country head to Florence, Alabama to honor W.C. Handy, a.k.a. “the Father of Blues,” in his birthplace. This beautiful old Alabama town welcomes visitors with the perfect setting for wonderful jazz and blues music, great food, and Southern hospitality.
Music Preservation Society, Inc.
PO Box 1827
Florence, AL 35631
256-766-7642 or 800-47BLUES
July 28-Aug. 3, 2003
ALASKA
Anderson Bluegrass and Country Music Festival – Anderson
People of Arkansas can’t wait until the last weekend in July. That is when the Anderson County and Bluegrass Festival is held beside the scenic Nenana River in a park with views of Mt. McKinley. This small community comes out en masse, and people travel from all over the state, to listen to country and bluegrass music in the great outdoors.
July 28-30, 2003
Cama’i Dance Festival – Bethel
About as local as they come, the Cama’i dance festival is a three-day celebration of the culture and traditions of the Yup’ik Eskimos. Indigenous people from Artic and sub-Arctic regions travel to Bethel every spring to participate in this eclectic event.
Bethel Council on the Arts
PO Box 264
Bethel, AK 99559
907-543-7300
http://www.bethelarts.com/
City of Homer – Homer
It may be the end of the road for the Kenai Peninsula, but Homer serves as the beginning of Alaskan adventures. One of the most picturesque towns in Alaska, this seaside community is home to numerous art galleries, brewpubs, and Alaskan wildlife. Stop by the Saltry Restaurant or The Homestead for good eats, then spend the night in a quaint Alaskan bed and breakfast.
Homer Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 541
Homer, AK 99603
907-235-7740
http://www.homeralaska.org/
Glacier BrewHouse – Anchorage
Locals flock to the Glacier BrewHouse for a little taste of what was voted the best brewpub in Anchorage. Not only does the BrewHouse use the finest ingredients to handcraft its beer, it also whips up the best bread pudding in the world.
737 W. Fifth Ave.
Anchorage, AK 99501
907-274-2739
http://www.glacierbrewhouse.com
Lion’s Head Run, Matanuska River – Palmer
Setting the tone for this adventure, you suit up in an insulated suit to ward off hypothermia in case you take a spill. The Lion’s head run is a local favorite for whitewater rafting. It’s short enough to do in a day and fast enough to make the trip all worthwhile.
Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau
HC01 Box 6166 J21
Palmer AK 99645
907-746-5000
Midnight Sun Baseball Game – Fairbanks
Goldpanners, the northernmost baseball club on Earth, play their annual “Midnight Sun” baseball game without the assistance of stadium lights. During June, when Fairbanks only sees the sun, the city celebrates the June 21 summer solstice with baseball, food, and lots of fun. The game began nearly 100 years ago as a bet between two local bars, but since then, the stakes were raised to one of the “must see” events of American baseball.
PO Box 71154
Fairbanks, AK 99707
907-451-0095
http://www.goldpanners.com
Mount Marathon Race – Seward
People have been running up Mount Marathon for years. The tradition began when two “sourdoughs” had an argument about whether it was possible to climb and descend the mountain in less than one hour. The loser had to buy drinks for the crowd. Each year crowds still gather in Seward for the race, and someone--apparently--is still buying drinks for the 30,000-strong, rowdy crowd. This race is a great time in Alaska. People arrive in RVs and stay throughout the 4th of July holiday. Registration begins in January.
Seward Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 749
Seward, AK 99664
907-224-8051
http://www.sewardak.org
Northern Lights – Denali
Everything you’ve ever heard about this place is true. It’s spectacular. Northern Lights enhance the uniquely Alaskan wildlife and already beautiful scenery during the winter.
PO Box 9
Denali Park, AK 99755
907-683-2294
http://www.nps.gov/dena/
Salmon Fishing on the Kenai River – Soldotna
Soldotna has world-class fishing at its doorstep. And the fish are always biting. Five different species of salmon inhabit the Kenai at different times of the year. This area is rich in wildlife and abundant in beauty.
Soldotna Chamber of Commerce
44024 Sterling Highway
Soldotna, AK 99669
907-262-9814
Sullivan Roadhouse – Delta Junction
The Sullivan Roadhouse is the oldest roadhouse left on the Richardson Highway. Built in the early 1900s, it was relocated from its original site about 10 years ago and now sits next to the Delta Visitor’s Center at the end of the Alaska Highway. It houses a museum of artifacts from the early Gold Rush days.
Delta Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 987
Delta Junction, AK 99737
907-895-5068
ARIZONA
The Annual Navajo Nation Fair – Window Rock
This is an annual event that showcases the history and culture of the Navajo people. Activities include a rodeo, pow-wow, traditional food, vendors, dancing, arts and crafts exhibits, a parade, and the crowning of Miss Navajo.
Parks & Recreation
PO Box 2520
Window Rock, AZ 86515
928-871-6478
Canyon de Chelly – Chinle
Located on the Navajo reservation, Canyon de Chelly is a 26-mile, stunningly beautiful red-rock canyon. Sheer rock walls, adorned with petroglyphs and pictographs, climb more than 1,000 feet into the sky, and alcoves that sheltered Anasazi dwellings are clearly visible. The interior of the canyon is only accessible by tours conducted by authorized Navajo guides or National Park service personnel. Visitors profess Canyon de Chelly should be the eighth wonder of the world.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
PO Box 588
Chinle, AZ 86503
928-674-5500
Crazy Ed's Satisfied Frog – Cave Creek
Great food, heaping portions, sawdust on the floor, and dirt streets out front, this place is about as rustic as they come. Famous for their homemade chili-beer, The Satisfied Frog is a “must-do” when visiting Pheonix.
6245 E. Cave Creek Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
480-488-3317
http://www.satisfiedfrog.com
El Chorro – Scottsdale
Locals know to start their hike up Camelback Mountain hungry. El Chorro sits at the top of the trail and serves delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Order eggs benedict or hot cinnamon rolls from the patio overlooking the mountain you just climbed.
5550 E. Lincoln Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
480-948-5170
Guido’s Taco Shop – Chandler
A Mexico City native, Guido knows how to serve up fantastic, authentic Mexican food. There’s nothing low-key about this lively little taco shop. Guido will even come by to offer you a beer while you wait in line. Sit inside or out and listen to the Mexican tunes playing in the background. There’s nothing fancy about Guido’s, but it’s consistently delicious.
71 E. Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85225-5515
408-899-7841
Oaxaca Restaurant and Rooftop Cantina – Sedona
The deck at this local cantina overlooks the Red Rock formations of Oak Creek Canyon. With a margarita in hand, there is no better place to watch the sun slowly paint the canyon as it sets. Plus, nothing beats food prepared Sonoran-style.
321 Highway 89A
Sedona, AZ 86339
928-282-6291
www.oaxacarestaurant.com
Ramsey Canyon – Sierra Vista
Known as the hummingbird capital of Arizona, more than 14 different species of the bird can be found in Ramsey Canyon. The scenic Huachuca Mountains hug the canyon tightly, providing a tranquil atmosphere for avid nature lovers.
29 Ramsey Canyon Road
Hereford, AZ 85615
520-378-3010
http://www.tncarizona.org/preserves/ramsey.asp
Slide Rock State Park – Sedona
Slide Rock was once an old apple farm, but most people know it as a superb place to picnic and swim. Located among some of the most beautiful country in Arizona, Slide Rock is a natural creek, where people come to slip n’ slide their way into the cool, rushing water.
6871 N. Highway 89A
Sedona, AZ 86336
520-282-3034
http://www.pr.state.az.us/parkhtml/sliderock.html
Town of Crown King – Crown King
Located in the tall pines about 7,000 feet up the Bradshaw mountains is one of the last historic towns of its kind. With four businesses – the Saloon, Switchback Bar and Grill, the general store and post office, and The Mill Restaurant – this little gem is a secret even to Arizonians. In the summer, Crown King is generally about 20-30 degrees cooler than the valley.
PO Box 457
Crown King, AZ 86343
928-632-4477
http://www.crownking.com
Tucson Jazz Society – Tucson
The Tucson Jazz Society has a 20-year history of bringing international jazz musicians together on beautiful, clear Arizona nights. Once the days cool down, locals head out to relax under the stars with great music, food from local restaurants, and a full bar.
PO Box 1069
Tuscon, AZ 85702
520-903-1265
http://www.tucsonjazz.org
ARKANSAS
Blanchard Springs Caverns – Mountain View
Blanchard Springs is one of the few living caverns accessible to the public. Cave temperatures dwell at a cool 58-degrees--perfect for a night of camping. Four different caving classes are also available- but make requests for a permit early.
US Forest Service
PO Box 1279
Mountain View, AR 72560
Buckstaff Baths – Hot Springs
Buckstaff Baths is the only operational bathhouse on Bathhouse Row. At Buckstaff’s, bathing isn’t just about soaking. There are whirlpools, needle-spray showers and a variety of other contraptions that, according to a fan, allow the naturally hot water from Hot Springs National Park to “suck the stress right out of you.”
509 Central Ave.
Hot Springs National Park, AR 71901
501-623-2308
Calico Rock Fishing – Calico Rock
As beautiful and natural a place you’ll ever see, Calico Rock is also home to some of the finest fishing in the state. Located on the White River in the Ozark Mountains, everything you’ll need to fish can be bought riverside.
PO Box 245
Calico Rock, AR 72519
870-297-4129
http://www.calicorock.com
Cotham’s in the City – Little Rock
Cotham’s is known for their huge burger, "the Hubcap," and their political memorabilia decorating the walls. A Little Rock lunchtime standard, Cotham’s serves fried green tomatoes and many other Southern favorites.
1401 W. Third St.
Little Rock, AR 72201
501-370-9177
Crater of Diamonds State Park – Murfreesboro
Crater of Diamonds is a 35-acre field at the surface of an eroded, ancient gem-bearing, volcanic pipe. For a nominal admission fee, you can scour the ground--best diamond hunting days are right after a rain--and keep any diamonds that “catch your eye.”
209 State Park Road
Murfreesboro, AR 71958
870-285-3113
City of Eureka Springs
Arkansas’ own “Little Switzerland” is a town of oddities; no two streets intersect at right angles and there is not a single stoplight to be found. Restored Victorian buildings and an entire downtown shopping district put this little town on the National Register of Historic Places. Eureka Springs plays host to many events throughout the year, but its eclectic charm and old-world architecture alone attract people from all over the country.
PO Box 522
Eureka Springs, AR 72632
http://www.eurekasprings.org
Hope Watermelon Festival – Hope
In Hope, watermelons grow to 280-pounds. Maybe there’s something in the water, because watermelons aren’t the only thing springing from Hope. It's also the birthplace of President Bill Clinton. Each year, the now-famous city holds an annual Watermelon Festival with arts and crafts, a dog show, Watermelon Olympics, fiddling and more.
Admission is free.
PO Box 250
108 E. Third
Hope, AR 71802
870-777-3640
Aug. 7-10, 2003
http://www.hopemelonfest.com
McClard’s Bar-B-Q – Hot Springs
McClard’s serves uniquely “South Arkansas cuisine.” The menu is short because the choices are limited: barbeque, tamales, and hamburgers (fries and slaw come on the top because there’s no room left on the plate). The Spread is the house special: a bed of corn chips topped with a layer of baked beans, barbeque, two tamales, shredded cheese, and onions. You won’t find this kind of food, or this restaurant, unless you’re looking for it. There’s no seating and there's usually a wait. Just go stand by a table that looks like it’s about to be available-and cross your fingers.
505 Albert Pike
Hot Springs National Park, AR 71913
1-866-MCCLARDS
PortFest and State Catfish Cooking Contest – Newport
PortFest is an annual event in Northeast Arkansas, attracting national country singers, local musicians, and Zydeco bands from Cajun country. Plenty of fried catfish, Southern hospitality and, um, pig racing. That's right. A few years back PortFest featured a pig racing attraction. You just never know what to expect.
210 Elm St.
Newport, AR 72112
870-523-3618
River Market District – Little Rock
Located along the banks of the Arkansas, the revitalized River Market provides a “downtown” feel for many eclectic restaurants, shops, hotels, and farmers' markets in Little Rock.
Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau
PO Box 3232
Little Rock, AR 72203
800-844-4781
http://www.littlerock.com
CALIFORNIA
Buena Vista Winery – Sonoma
Founded in 1857 by a Hungarian wine pioneer, Buena Vista is California’s first premium winery. Trees and a creek surround this old stone structure. Stop by one of the restaurants on the town square for a picnic lunch before heading out.
18000 Old Winery Road
Sonoma, CA 95476
800-926-1266
Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee – Angels Camp
Mark Twain’s short story, “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County,” inspired the now internationally known “Jumping Frog Jubilee.” The first ever frog jump, held in 1928, lured 15,000 people to Angeles Camp, and the event has continued to grow ever since. Although this small town tradition began as a tall tale, it’s taken a very long leap into the history books of Calaveras County.
The Calaveras County Visitors Bureau
PO BOX 637
Angels Camp, CA 95222
209-736-0049 or 800-225-3764
www.visitcalaveras.org
Cowgirl Creamery and Bovine Bakery – Point Reyes Station
Grab a picnic lunch from Cowgirl Creamery and baked goods from Bovine Bakery before venturing out to Point Reyes National Park--they carry a tony selection of artisan cheeses and gourmet food items. The Lighthouse and Drakes Beach make idyllic picnic spots.
PO Box 594
80 Fourth St.
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
415-663-9335
http://www.cowgirlcreamery.com
Duke’s – Malibu
Sit on the sandy beaches at Duke’s Barefoot Bar, nibbling on a nacho basket, and enjoying a cold Corona. Located eight miles north of Santa Monica, Duke’s casual and formal dining areas overlook one of the longest oceanfront sites on the West Coast. Go on Tuesdays to indulge yourself in the legendary fish tacos. Absolutely delectable.
21150 Pacific Coast Highway
Malibu, CA 90265
310-317-0777
http://www.hulapie.com/dukesmalibu/
The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies – Palm Springs
A bit of old Hollywood emerges in The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies. Celebrating song and dance of the early 20th century, The Follies, located within the old Spanish-style Historic Plaza Theatre, was once graced with performances by Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, and Jack Benny. Other star-studded events, such as the gala opening of “Camille,” starring Greta Garbo, also touched this jewelbox theatre. Bringing together old Palm Springs and new Palm Springs, The Follies represents the “true flavor” of this historic town.
128 S. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760-327-0225
http://www.palmspringsfollies.com
Gilroy Garlic Festival – Gilroy
From garlic ice cream and cakes to garlic pies and fries, the very unusual Gilroy Garlic Festival has drawn people to sample gourmet food, fine wines, and loacl arts and crafts for 24 years. The festival, a non-profit effort to boost funding for community projects, raised more than $6 million for Gilroy charities since its founding in 1979.
PO Box 2311
7473 Monterey St.
Gilroy, CA 95020
July 25-27, 2003
http://www.gilroygarlicfestival.com
Gizdich Ranch – Watsonville
This small, family-run farm serves the best apple pie on the West Coast. It’s only 15 minutes from the beach and has outside seating, where you can enjoy a beautiful mountain view. Pick your own berries, or just relax and indulge yourself in that legendary apple pie.
55 Peckham Road
Watsonville, CA 95076
831-722-1056
Parkside Café – Stinson Beach
Parkside Café serves some of the best food in Marin and Sonoma counties, making brunch “reason enough to visit this spectacular stretch of the Northern California coast.” Located 12 miles north of San Francisco, both the atmosphere and the fine food make Parkside Café a truly unique experience.
43 Arenal Ave.
Stinson Beach, CA 94970
415-868-1272
Roar & Snore Camp-Over at San Diego Wild Animal Park - Escondido
Bring your sleeping bag, pillow, and camera for an incredible camping experience at the world-famous San Diego Wild Animal Park. Camp activities include an after-hours look at the wildlife, guided walks, animal encounters, a campfire program, al fresco dining, and a pancake breakfast. Reservations are required.
15500 San Pasqual Valley Road
Escondido, CA 92027-7017
760-747-8702 or 800-934-CAMP
http://www.sandiegozoo.org
Stern Grove Festival – San Francisco
The Stern Grove Festival dates back to 1932, when this majestic natural amphitheater was dedicated to honor Sigmund Stern, a prominent civic leader. Ever since its dedication, the San Francisco Symphony has performed free summer concerts in this eucalyptus and redwood encased acoustical masterpiece. Stern Grove offers music, dance, and theatrical programs for every taste bud. Besides being free, picnics and sunning also make this outdoor amphitheater a big San Franciscan appeal.
Stern Grove Festival Association
44 Page St. Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94102
415-252-6252
http://www.sterngrove.org
