guys, i drive to birmingham at least once a year to see family, this is DEFNITELY the fastest way...no ifs ands or buts about it.  at least an hr faster than the mapquest way which shows to go i-75 then cut over on 20. Exactly.  My sister-in-law's family all live in Columbiana (outside of Birmingham).  I have made the trip more than 10 times.  I did it once through Atlanta, and I have never done it since. You can look at the mileage all you want, but the bottom line is that 231 is the best way to go.  The only places to really watch yourself are the small towns in Florida until you get to Dothan. Edit: I will be going up Friday AM with 10 other Bulls fans!