California's Coastal Rain Forest

From Susanville and Alturas, west of California's Cascade mountain range, to the breathtaking northern California coast, Best Western Hotels are prepared to meet any travelers lodging needs. Interstate 5 runs down from Yreka near the Oregon state line, through Mount Shasta, and past Redding on the way to Sacramento, the State Capital. Highway 101 follows the coast line past Redwood National Park, Eureka and provides a convenient exit to the spectacular coastline of Mendocino County. Traveling throughout the region is easy and you can keep it that way with Best Western Hotels.

Just over 85 miles from Reno sits Susanville, an exit for highway 44 to head north to Mount Shasta. Mount Shasta sits prominently in the center of the region, as it rises independently over 10,000 feet above it's neighboring terrain. With sunrise, the western side of the mountain remains in shadows because of the dramatic rise of the mountain. Set the alarm if you stay on the shaded side, mornings seem to come late. The Siskiyou Sled Dog Races 2010 were hosted in the area in January. An exciting enhancement for this year - the race distance was increased to 220 miles and is now an official qualifying race for the Iditerod. You may see teams practicing if you are there in late winter.

The area is very popular among snow sport enthusiasts. For skiers and boarders the Mt Shasta Board and Ski park offers one of the best series of off trail slopes in the west. Don't miss the state of the art half pipe grinders and man made terrain for beginners as well as advanced boarders. Trailer your own snowmobile or rent one locally to enjoy over 250 miles of trails, accessible from four different trail parks.

Heading closer to milder climate of the northern coast? There are a variety of fun events to fill the early months of the year. Near the end of February,, there is the three day Chopper Westbrook Steelhead Derby and in March the Hank Westbrook Derby, both fundraisers for the preservation of the outdoors for future generations. Join friends and family for some outstanding fishing in beautiful surroundings. The hospitality of nearby Best Western Hotels will make your visit complete.

The Redwood Wild River Run is held in late March. There is both a 15K race for serious runners as well as a 5K for running buffs of all ages and abilities. Get ready to enjoy a run along with some amazing scenery. The course runs along the river and through the forests, which are alive in spring with the runoff and new blooms.

Looking for a simple night out? Crescent City will host a fiddling concert at the end of April by the Hunt Family Fiddlers. A bit earlier in the month you can watch the new Junior Miss be crowned at the Crescent City Junior Miss Scholarship Program.

May brings the California Redwoods Bird and Nature Festival in and around Crescent City. Formerly the Aleutian Goose Festival, this is a terrific bridge from spring to summer. Timed with the migration season, visitors enjoy bird watching among the majestic redwood. Featuring wild bird and birds of prey exhibits, nature walks and seminars, this is an amazing educational opportunity as well as a great outdoor event.

No matter where you go, or what you choose to do, look for Best Western Hotels on the route for lodging. Convenient and affordable, you can count on Best Western.

Yosemite National Park

America's Cornucopia of Agriculture - California's Central Valley forms one of the largest and most agriculturally rich valleys in the world, made up from the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley's. Stretching nearly 400 miles from Redding in the north to Bakersfield in the south, nearly a quarter of America's fruits and vegetables come from this region. Traversed by Interstate 5 and SR 99 cities, towns, and attractions are all easily accessible. Best Western Hotels are convenient all through the Central Valley, providing affordable lodging and quality hospitality.

Recognized for the fertile land and abundant agriculture, local residents celebrate the bounty through a variety of fun and entertaining festivals and events. 2010 is the 25th anniversary of the Stockton Asparagus festival. Held in April, this year will feature a cookbook of 166 asparagus recipes from past festivals. Zinfest, held at Lodi Lake in May, celebrates the areas wine production. The event features wine seminars, games and demonstrations.

When cherries come on in May, Lindon holds its annual Cherry Festival with entertainment and food. Although not a native crop, chocolate is always worth celebrating, and Oakdale hosts a Chocolate Festival, complete with tastings and a lot of fun. Rounding out May is the Strawberry Festival in Galt. In addition to everything strawberry (edible and otherwise), a fun run is included in the schedule of events. Apricots are one of the early tree fruits to ripen, and early June brings the Apricot Fiesta in Patterson with a parade among other events. Bring everyone to this event as it is especially geared to families with children.

Famous for beautiful vineyards and wine, California, is also famous for it's central valley raisins. South of Fresno, the Circle-K Ranch is a family owned agricultural business, that began as wine vineyards. The farm has grown and diversified and now includes orchards bearing a variety of fruit. The Farm is open to visitors all year, however, especially enticing is a visit in May thru November, when fresh picked fruit is available. Stop by to enjoy the daily tastings or enjoy a tray of California almonds, walnuts, pistachios with dried fruit. For the best of two worlds, head west of Fresno for a free tour of Sun Empire Foods. Their specialty is the making of chocolate covered fruits and nuts. Nothing can beat a free sample of these.

California State University at Fresno offers an extensive agricultural education program, which includes production for the Rue and Gwen Gibson Farm Market. Products from over 15 university enterprises, in five departments, are stocked in the market. A great place to make a purchase and support the education of future agricultural leaders.

Did you know? Near Porterville and Exeter to the east are Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The Park is home to both the world's largest tree and North America's deepest canyon. Two amazing sights that are relatively unknown.

Close by, the city of Visalia is the largest town in the area and a likely stoppin' point. Visalia also has nice facilities for groups and meetings, it is a great destination to host a convention in the central valley area.

California's central valley is home to a diversity of cultures which are proudly celebrated through several unique and worthwhile events. Stockton will celebrate the Chinese New Year in March. 2010 is the Year of the Tiger which will be the central theme. New this year, all performances and entertainment will be held at the beautifully restored Fox California/Bob Hope Theater. Pick a performance and come enjoy it along with the amazing restoration. April brings the Cambodian New Year with a community celebration in Stockton. Check local schedules and bring the whole family to one of the events. Of course Cinco de Mayo will be celebrated early May in many locations including Concilio's Cinco de Mayo Family Festival in Stockton organized by the Council for the Spanish Speaking. This will be one of the best Cinco de Mayo Festivals to attend. Temple Israel celebrates Jewish culture in June with a food festival and in July the Stockton Obon Bazaar celebrates Japanese culture at the local Buddhist Temple. The options are non stop, there is no excuse to stay home.

Both a breadbasket for the United States and a cultural melting pot, California's Central Valley is unique from the bright lights and rush of the larger coastal cities but equally important to the states growth and economy. Visit one of the largest and most fruitful gardens on earth with lots to enjoy and Best Western Hotels to make your stay easy and comfortable.

Enjoy Palm Springs Golf Courses

Descriptively named to distinguish the region from the coastal areas, San Bernardino and Riverside counties are the core of the Inland Empire Region of California. Enormous residential and economic development, over the last several decades, have boosted the region to the third largest metro area in the state. Blythe, off Interstate 10, and Needles, off Interstate 40, in the west near the Arizona border are common gate ways to the state as well as routes for California visitors to Lake Havasu on the Colorado River, a popular water recreation spot.

Get ready for the Colorado River Fair in April. Hosted by the city of Blythe, this years theme is “Tropical Nights and Midway Lights”. You can enter your best arts, crafts, photography and agriculture for a shot at a blue ribbon. Check out the barns for local 4-H and FFA livestock projects, and stick around to see which ones get top dollar at the auction. Entertainment at the Fair will feature Shamrock Shows carnival rides, and Lucas Oil Stock Car Racing. Gather the troops, this is an event for the whole family.

The regions calendar is full of other arts festivals, including the Palm Springs or La Quinta arts festivals in March and the Desert arts festival, which is a series of festivals through the year in Palm Springs. Indio hosts the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April. Fans have dubbed this festival “the best American rock festival”. The 2010 lineup is packed with performances, including the uber famous Jay-Z. Music lovers – plan now for this festival, it is truely amazing. Country music fans gear up for the last weekend in April for Stagecoach – California's Country Music Festival held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio as well. The 2010 lineup is unbelievable – Keith Urban, Toby Keith, Sugarland and Brooks and Dunn are just a few of the performers you will recognize.

The 2010 Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival is a not to miss ten day event that begins mid February. In it's 64th year, the Fair will feature a series of headliner entertainers, monster truck shows, a Livestock Auction, and over 200 exhibitors. Another great family event, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The diversity of the Inland Empire includes the popular mountain recreational areas of Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead. For sport fishing enthusiasts, the county of San Bernardino sponsors a trout fishing derby that features fishing events monthly January through April. The end of April brings the Berdoo Bikes and Blues Rendezvous featuring top notch music and activities for motorcycle enthusiasts. Take a road trip on your bike and stay at a biker friendly Best Western Hotel in the area.

Starting mid April the regular baseball season opens for the Inland Empire 66ers, a minor league team affiliated with the Dodgers as well as the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, which feeds the LA Angels. Check the schedules, there is nothing like family night at a baseball game. If the talent for baseball runs in the family, you could be accompanying your star to San Bernardino. It is home of the Western Regional Little League Headquarters and host of the Major Western Regional Little League Tournament.

The Desert and Inland Empire regions of California showcase wide diversity in geography and an accompanying breadth of events and activities. Best Western Hotels throughout the region are ready to provide excellent hospitality, that is convenient and affordable for the needs of any traveler.

San Simion Pier on the Central California Coast

The Central Coast of California stretches from Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz south to Oxnard and Ventura. Made up of over 300 miles of matchless sandy beaches, mixed along with splendid pacific cliff lines. Picturesque vistas abound for travelers along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. From unpretentious communities with the charm of small towns like Carpinteria and Goleta, to the more well-known enclaves of Santa Barbara and Monterey, California casual is the rule whether traveling for business or pleasure.

The schedule of events in Winter and Spring does not slow down, and it is an wonderful time of year for a visit. Major attractions along the central coast include eleven of California's historic missions, as well as Hearst Castle and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Through February the trees in Sperling Preserve in Goleta are swarmed with the orange and black beauty of monarch butterflies.

Off the coast, Grey whales can be spotted easily through early March. On a calm day a whale watching trip may reward with the sight of the distinct V shaped blow created by the grey's two nostrils. Pismo Beach's sea caves and rock arches are experienced best by kayaks, which are readily available for rent or provided by tour hosts. Jade cove, close to Big Sur, is an excellent spot to treasure hunt in tide pools that capture jade polished by the sea and sand.

The unique California condor can be spotted at Andrew Molera State Park, which offers a special two hour condor viewing tour sponsored by the Ventana Wildlife Society. Don't forget the Monterey Bay Aquarium for the kids to experience the updated splash zone, the new seahorse exhibit, and the always popular penguins. Tickets are now on sale for the Cooking Solutions celebration at the Aquarium. This is held in May, and joins together well known chefs that specialize in cuisine that sustains the oceans and soils. An excellent and elegant educational event to discover how your food choices protect the health of the soil, water and ocean wildlife.

For the active the central coast is filled with terrific biking and hiking trails complimenting beach and ocean ventures. Paso Robles hosts a half marathon in March that courses through wine country and ends at River Oaks Hot Springs with a kids 1/2 mile grape stomp. Formerly home to Fort Ord, the city of Marina, has completed a new recreational walk trail. The path features a view tower on the bluffs overlooking Monterrey Bay and a trail leading to the four miles of beach below.

Bargain hunters take note, Ventura hosts a large flea market every two months with over 500 vendors. In April and May, Ventura celebrates chamber music at the Ventura Music Festival and the annual springtime art walk is also on the April calendar. Santa Barbara is a hub for events for the culturally well heeled. The Santa Barbara International Film Festival is scheduled for early February and will showcase an excellent range of independent films from across the globe in venues throughout the city. March brings the International Orchid Show with the exciting and exotic blossoms from growers across the Pacific Rim. The city of Ojai is home to the unique Ojai Storytelling Festival held at the end of April, a magical and uplifting event for all ages. Later in spring Ojai also hosts a Wine Festival and the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival. For all edibles made with strawberries including new and exciting recipes visit Oxnard for the California Strawberry Festival in May.

Best Western Hotels dot California's central coast travel routes, conveniently located for overnight or longer stays. An excellent value for lodging in this popular and exciting region of the country, Best Western hospitality will make any trip complete.

Sacramento Bridge Welcomes Visitors

Many a youngster has incorrectly guessed the capital city of California to be Los Angeles or San Francisco, not Sacramento. Overshadowed by its well known metroplex neighbors, it is the heart of the state. True to its history, as a critical crossroads for the overland Pony Express, river travel, and the railroad, today Sacramento remains central to state government and commerce. It remains a crossroads for highway, rail and river travel in the region as well. Historically a gold rush city, a key stop for miners heading to the north, Sacramento is a traveler's gold mine. It is filled with museums, parks, recreation, and activities for all.

Due to great preservation efforts, early American nostalgia permeates Old Sacramento, a 28 acre town, complete down to wooden sidewalks reflecting the city's early history. Today, over 125 unique shops and restaurants are mixed in the historic buildings of Old Town. Filled with art, gifts, clothing,souvenirs and casual dining, it is a fun and interesting place to spend a day. Old Sacramento is also home to the California State Railroad Museum and the Sacramento History Museum, a treat for history buffs to learn about the region.

Bordered by the Sacramento and American rivers, water recreation opportunities abound near Sacramento. The full service Sacramento Marina and a variety of launch sites accommodate watercraft from houseboats and power boats to personal water craft. Picnic sites, beautifully set along the river, have well maintained facilities for families big and small, load up and take the whole clan to the river.

For sports fans the Sacramento Kings have games through out the winter, a great option for a family outing. The regular season runs through mid April, check the schedule when you're in town and enjoy a basketball game.

The Lake Tahoe Area, west of Sacramento, along the California state line with Nevada, is an outdoor enthusiasts dreamland – Lake Tahoe. For starters it is the largest alpine lake in North American and the third deepest (Crater Lake in Oregon is deepest). Easily accessible by car, via Interstate 80 west through Sacramento, and Reno to the east, or from the south on US Route 50.

Plan your ski trip: The city of South Lake Tahoe, close to the Lake Tahoe airport, is an ideal location to enjoy Heavenly Mountain Resort an all season destination. Heavenly is one of over ten ski venues around Lake Tahoe, and one of the premier areas of the US to enjoy a broad diversity of downhill and Nordic skiing as well as snowboarding. There are slopes for all ages and abilities, take your pick and enjoy the world class snow and amenities.

Affordable and convenient, Best Western Hotels throughout the region offer excellent accommodations and hospitality. From the south in Lodi, Davis and Dixon to the west, east to Placerville and Pollock Pines and north passing Roseville to Yuba City enjoy your travels with Best Western.

Napa Valley Vineyard

Famous for California's premium wine production, the region heading north from San Francisco is also a draw for its delightful climate, picturesque towns and rolling landscapes. Visit the vineyard of a favorite winemaker, a must if there is a tasting on the schedule. Or visit one of many spas in the area and wander the unique downtown shops of Petaluma, Napa, or Sonoma.

Recognized as the birthplace of the California wine industry, Sonoma County is home to many wine festivals and events throughout the year hosted by local wine producers; with education, tastings, food pairings and typically California-style casual settings.

Equally enticing are a consistent schedule of wine pairings with cheeses, chocolate, and appetizers in Napa. Best Western Hotels are a perfect host if you are staying in the area for Women's Wellness Week in January; featuring a series of topics and activities centered around women's health. Likewise in March Best Western accommodations are ideal for both the 32nd annual Napa Valley Marathon ,or the Northern California Screenwriters Expo; which includes a pitch-fest on the last day to well-known agents, producers, and studios.

Want more than wine country? Vacaville is only 20 minutes from Napa and is a charming and vibrant community that makes a perfect base for any activity or event in the area; especially for travelers to and from Sacramento. Santa Rosa, 55 miles north of San Francisco, is a crossroads for travels to the coast, wine country, redwoods, rivers, and farmland. Central to numerous state and local parks, along with excellent hiking and biking trails this make a terrific place to stay and enjoy a diversity of activities.

Sonoma County hosts the annual Great Sonoma Crab and Wine Fest in early February and festivals celebrating the olive harvest between December and February. A must-see for young and old is the Charles Shultz Museum, creator of the Peanuts comic strip and beloved Snoopy.

Just north of San Francisco passing over the Golden Gate Bridge is Marin County. Best Western accommodations in destinations like Corte Madera and Novato offer the best of all worlds. The area is within a half-hour drive from San Francisco's big-city energy and also within minutes of Napa and Sonoma wine county. Some of the west's most beautiful vistas are easily accessible on short hikes and bike trails throughout the area. Discover the hidden gems in the green countryside while enjoying fine wine, local food artisans, and all that is clever in this corner of California.

No matter where you choose to start in Marin, Wine Country, or the coast, Best Western Hotels are affordable, convenient accommodations for your California travels.

The Beautiful Sanford University Campus in Santa Cruz

Do you know the way to San Jose? Once a small farming community, San Jose has grown to become known as the capital of Silicon Valley. Famous for a large concentration of high-tech companies and boasting a list of 25 well-known companies with over a thousand employees; several headquartered here.

San Jose has the ideal infrastructure and facilities to host conventions of all sizes. With a population of over seven million in the San Jose Greater Metropolitan Area, the requisite quality restaurants, as well as a full spectrum of arts and cultural activities make this an exciting place to visit for business or pleasure.

The multiplicity of technologies, delightful cities surrounding San Jose, and the amazing coastal drive along highway 1 draw throngs of travelers through the region. In addition the proximity to area universities including University of California's Berkley and Santa Cruz campus', Stanford University and several state universities attract many of the best and brightest students to the area.

Several cities like Menlo Park, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, and Santa Clara are also considered centers for Silicon Valley commerce and industry as well as bedroom communities to San Jose. These communities focus on quality of life and offer small town charms amidst the booming urban activity. A variety of golf courses and the moderate year-round weather make golf an ideal activity. San Jose has an excellent 18 hole municipal course, and is home to a number of top notch clubs; including Coyote Creek Golf Club and the popular Cinnabar Hills Golf Club.

Santa Cruz and Half Moon bay coastal towns are idyllic destinations to see and enjoy the great pacific. Santa Cruz is home to California's oldest and only major seaside amusement park. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk features traditional rides for young and old including the giant wood framed roller coaster and bumper cars.; The park is on the beach so if the weather is on your side that day; be sure to bring your swimsuit. The weather in the Half Moon Bay area is milder and can be quite cool (for California) in winter. Home to the popular Arts and Pumpkin Festival in the fall, Half Moon Bay is a terrific town for a stroll to enjoy unique shops filled with antiques, art, and local creations. Golfers can enjoy Half Moon Bay Golf Links, a public course which features both an American parklands style old course and a Scottish Links style Ocean Course.

To the east about a one and a half-hour drive is Modesto; which sits in the agriculturally-rich Central Valley. On the road there, check out LeMans Karting located in Fremont. LeMans Karting is the area's fastest indoor go-kart racing facility. With 9-horsepower go-karts that reach maximum speeds of 40-mph, and a twenty-foot wide race track, everyone can enjoy the fast-paced racing action. For a calmer adventure perhaps 'Bean Town' (Tracy), Lathrop, or Manteca down the road will warrant a stop.

Best Western hotels, born in sunny California, are a common site all across the state – providing comfortable and convenient accommodations no matter where you choose to travel in California. And with affordable lodging a rare commodity in the more-expensive San Jose locale, Best Western adds value to travel in and around the area.

Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco, CA

Leave your heart in San Francisco this winter? It's spring and time to fall in love with the bay area all over again. Start at the Embarcadero waterfront at Teatro ZinZanni. The show Hearts on Fire is running through May 16th - a magical evening of dinner, cabaret, spectacle and live music. Reminiscent of European nightclub shows of yesteryear, this show stars Thelma Houston as Madame ZinZanni, your evenings hostess. A unique show and venue, ideal for a special night in the city.

The full service Best Western “The Hotel California, is convenient to the Embarcadero as well as downtown shopping – make a weekend of it! With a complimentary tequila shot upon check-in – your night on the town will get off to a good start.

Kids love geckos, hurry to the Aquarium of the Bay for the special traveling Gecko Exhibit. Through April, giant green Geckos from Madagascar will be fascinating kids and adults at the exhibit. Visitors will learn the secret of how these cute and colorful lizards walk up a glass wall.

Look for the Best Western Tuscan Inn near Fisherman's Wharf when traveling with the kids. The highly rated hotel offers family fun packages, and is pet friendly, so the dog can come along too.

A nice daytime option for the family is the Bay Area Discovery Museum at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito. It is an indoor and outdoor facility and is actually located in a National Park. The Animal Secrets is a special exhibit that runs through May. Children can discover nature from the animals perspective in hands-on environments and role-play activities.

Play Ball – Opening day for San Francisco Giants Baseball is in April, get out early for a few games this season. The Regular season runs into October, but there is nothing like kicking of summer early with a beer and a hot dog at a Giant's game.

Runners, weekend warriors, walkers and fans, it's time for the 99th running of the Bay to Breakers. Not just a race, but a proud San Francisco tradition and display of the city's eclectic spirit and love for life. Always the third Sunday in May, the 12k course is filled with serious runners and a spectacle of costumed participants, cheered on by larger number of spectators lining the course. This is a must see at least once.

In June the inaugural AT&T Giant Race will be held. This event is for all ages and abilities featuring a half marathon and a popular Plate to Plate 5K. Both events finish in AT&T Park at home plate. With two days of events around the run, bring the family for a runner's night game, the health and fitness expo and a post race tailgate party.

No matter what direction you are coming from, Best Western Hotels will have locations convenient for your travels in the bay area. With affordable rates, Best Western Hotels have been recognized as an excellent travel value. Make your plans and look for Best Western accommodations along the way.

San Diego's Coronado Island Bridge

California Deamin'? It's time to make a visit to San Diego a reality. Spring activities and events in San Diego are plentiful, and although popular, you can avoid summer crowds and heat. The mild weather makes San Diego a terrific place for active pursuits. April 2010 is the 25th Anniversary of the Carlsbad 5000, called the world's fastest 5K. Two days of events feature a Junior Carlsbad on Saturday and the Carlsbad 5000 on Sunday. The junior's day features various kids races, a diaper dash, a toddlers trot and ages groups runs up to 12 years old – bring family and friends there is a race for everyone. Overnight accommodation at the Best Western Beach View Lodge or the Best Western Oceanside Inn are exceptional locations for visitors. Stick around for the fun at the post-race family festival.

IronKids San Diego, a great event for aspiring triathletes, is geared specifically for youth ages 6 to 15. With three courses, varying in distance, by age group, the race gives kids an opportunity to swim, bike and run just like an adult triathlete. Held on May 23rd, it is inspirational to see and support the young participants. The Best Western Mission Bay is a convenient location for travelers to IronKids San Diego, or splurge and stay beachfront at the Best Western Blue Sea Lodge, and spend the entire weekend.

A unique way to enjoy the Coronado Bay Bridge is to join in the Navy's 24th Original Bay Bridge Run and Walk 2010. Held in May, the course is four miles and supports quality of life programs for Navy personnel. Participants enjoy amazing views of Coronado Island and San Diego from the top of the bridge, and a fun party at the end of the race in Tidelands Park on Coronado. Register now, there is no race day registration. Book a night or two at the Best Western Suites Hotel Coronado Island and make a weekend of the event.

Spectator sports fans, it's Baseball season. The San Diego Padres open the regular 2010 season in April in a game against the Atlanta Braves. Get your tickets now and arrive early for the opening day t-shirt give away. Home games are played at PETCO Park in downtown San Diego.

Cycling enthusiasts gather in Barrio Logan for the 2010 Barrio Logan Grand Prix. The first of May, this year's race is a designated SCNA Junior Criterium Championship race, it is also a Lance Amstrong junior Olympic road race. With multiple classes include professional, amateur and kids age group races the Grand Prix makes for a full day of racing events for spectators. The course is a flat .8 mile figure eight, making the races exciting to watch. The Best Western Bayside Inn has convenient lodging for racers, friends and family, close to Barrio Logan.

Disneyland - Anaheim, CA

Orange County, named after its most famous crop, is celebrated at the La Habra Spring Citrus Fair. Held in 2010 the second weekend in April, the three day event will be located on La Habra Boulevard.

2010 is the inaugural event for the spring citrus fair and visitors will enjoy a well-organized and fun festival. Children will love the mascots – Limon the Lemon, Val Encia Orange and Big Haas Avocado, as well as a carnival. Finalists in the fair “Sing-Fest” will perform at the fair and the winner will be announced. Food vendors will include a full menu of options, many from favorite local restaurants. Grown-ups will enjoy the agriculture, home and garden exhibits, and workshops on growing your own healthy fare. Bring the family, have some fun and help make this a successful on-going event.

The Newport Beach Film Festival's mission is to bring the best classic and contemporary films from across the globe to Orange County. With Hollywood only an hour away, Orange County, shares an affinity for films and film making. Held the last week in April, the Newport Beach Film Festival showcases over 300 films including youth film making, action, sports and family films. Directors, screenwriters and cinematographers will be present to provide insight for audiences on their craft and answer questions. Film buffs, this is a nice opportunity to enjoy cutting-edge films and interact with the filmmakers. A rare opportunity so close to Hollywood.

The Best Western Newport Beach, just 100 yards from the beach, is a nice option to have a short vacation while attending the film festival. Enjoy Newport and Huntington Beaches pleasant spring weather before spring break and the summer crowds. With affordable rates, complimentary continental breakfast and access to a fitness center, you don't have anything to worry about, just enjoy your time in Newport Beach.

Serious runners, walkers and weekend warriors get ready for the Orange County Marathon the first weekend in May. A full schedule for all ages and abilities, the event also includes a half marathon 5K and a Kids Run. The marathon is scheduled in concert with the Health, Fitness and Nutrition Expo at the Orange County Fair and Expo Center in Costa Mesa. Get the entire family involved and on the way to a healthy summer and future.

The Cinco de Mayo Half Marathon in Irvine is another option the same weekend. This race benefits children's cancer research and starts and finishes at the Irvine Spectrum. Designed as a fun-filled family day the race events include the half marathon, 5K walk/run, 10K and 1K Kids Fun Run. The festivities include live mariachi music, kids games and activities, clowns and a train ride. Children can also get a temporary tattoo, have their face painted or try a rock climbing wall.

The Best Western Newport Mesa Inn or the Best Western Orange County Airport North are both nice options to enjoy a weekend event and some shopping at South Coast Plaza or Fashion Island. Enjoy the spring weather in Orange County at a Best Western Hotel.

Los Angeles International Airport

Los Angeles, where visiting there is never a dull moment, and spring is no exception. However, it is a good time to travel to LA and avoid the summer heat and crowds. The Cherry Blossom Festival Southern California, which the Automobile Club of Southern California named the top pick of its “Five Worth the Drive, is held in April. A traditional kick off to spring, timed with the blooming of the Japanese cherry blossoms, the festival celebrates the good fortune the blossoms symbolize. A kimono fashion show, beer and sake garden, the cultural exhibits, martial arts and sumo wrestling are unique to this festival. Children will have special activities and crafts, including origami and fish kites. A great opportunity to immerse you and your family in Japanese culture and enjoy the spring weather in Little Tokyo. Little Tokyo is on East 1st Street between south Alameda Street and South San Pedro Street. The Best Western Dragon Gate Inn is a convenient location for the festival and other down town Los Angeles events.

Spring means the opening of Baseball season. Both the Dodgers and Angels will host home openers in April. Bobblehead collectors, the first of the four games featuring the bobblehead give away is May 18th – don't miss that one.

The Los Angeles Cinco de Mayo celebration could be the largest in the world. The Fiesta Broadway street fair is a party encompassing 24 square block of downtown Los Angeles. The 21st annual event will feature three stages showcasing top latin musicians and performers on Sunday April 25th. A fun family event, come on out for terrific food, fun and entertainment.

The Santa Monica Festival presented by Santa Monica city, is celebrated on Mothers Day weekend. The festival honors the ethnic history of Santa Monica and the area's environmental resources. Attendees are encouraged use public transportation to get to Clover Park, site of the festival. There will be cutting-edge music and dance on several stages, environmental displays and workshops, and two stages, one specifically for youth. Best Western Hotels has two locations convenient to the festival, The Best Western Gateway Hotel and The Best Western Royal Palace Inn and Suites are nice options for a weekend visit to Santa Monica sites and the festival.

Pasadena is not only the home of the famous Rose Parade, it is home of the Pasadena Doo Dah Parade. Getting bigger and more entertaining each year, it will be held in east Pasadena May 1st. Complete with local Grand Marshall Corky Peterson and Queen Erica Valentine, the 2010 parade promises to be a great party. Kick off a fun weekend with entries like the Mystik Krewe. Marching Grill Team and Flying Baby Street Racing and Stroller Cross. Both the Best Western Pasadena Inn and the Best Western Pasadena Royale are located near the parade route and close to the Santa Anita Race Track for a weekend of good fun.