Small-Group Hollywood, LA Beaches & Filming Location Tour from Anaheim. Check the different Alcatraz Island tickets price and the best Alcatraz Island tours, each offering a unique spin on this truly fascinating attraction! Take in the view of the iconic row of 6 Queen Anne-style homes known as the Painted Ladies, along with the gorgeous backdrop of the modern San Francisco skyline in one take. And, of course, in the wintertime, it becomes a haven for snow bunnies looking to carve up some powder. Dont let its intense nature scare you away though, Death Valley National Park is one of the most distinctive parks in the world that should be on everyones bucket list. 1. Constructed in 1933, the one-mile-wide Golden Gate is an international emblem. A locally beloved slice of fresh air on sunny days, Baker Beach is one of the most popular spots in San Francisco for locals and visitors alike, thanks to its stunning location right next to the Golden Gate Bridge. Hearst had very interesting interior decorating tastes that would best be described as eclectic gaudiness, but a guided tour is worthwhile to explore the historic, sprawling property, and the hundreds of rooms within it. Its also a great place to explore historic lighthouses, unique beaches, and small, welcoming coastal towns along the way. A few of the best cultural neighborhoods in California include the following: One of the more unique things to do in Southern California, a few miles away from the Salton Sea, visionary Leonard Knight took it upon himself to create an actual mountain out of adobe, straw, and non-toxic paint. I'd spend three days driving the central coast, stopping at Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Cambria/San Simeon, Big Sur, and Monterey Bay. Featured in numerous movies and TV shows over the bygone decades, its easy to see why this bridge has become an unofficial emblem of California. Pin one of these images for future reference. Later in life, only things like figuring out your 401K and the Covered California website will scare you. One of my favorite California attractions the Flower Fields in Carlsbad! Originally constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition and inspired by the ruins of ancient Rome, this imposing Roman and Greek Revival structure has withstood the test of time (plus several earthquakes) and remains one of the citys most popular tourist attractions. While the baseball season typically runs from late March or early April to October, its easy to get into the sporting spirit year-round thanks to the behind-the-scenes stadium tours. In the summer, take advantage of the many state parks and hiking trails around the lake, do some adventure water activities, or discover hidden beaches. 25 Fun Things to Do in Anaheim, California (and Nearby) The deep cerulean blue of Lake Tahoe combined with the pine tree-rimmed shoreline and a backdrop of snow-capped mountains sets it apart as one of the most unique destinations in the world. Read my full guide to the best urban hikes in San Francisco. per adult. Ideal for the hot summer days, with lazy rivers and waterslides to boot, the onsiteSouth Bay Shores Waterpark offers hours of splashtastic fun! With dozens of tours available to explore the museum inside and out, its no wonder that this museum is considered to be one of the best museums in Los Angeles. Whether youre looking to enjoy some quiet time fishing or paddleboarding on the glassy surface, take on one of the areas many hiking trails (including the popular Rubicon Trail), or just relax in the sun with a good book, Lake Tahoe delivers summertime excitement (or much-needed R&R) in spades. Across six equally-impressive spacious zones, the facility boasts hundreds of exhibits on topics ranging from human biology to the physics of music, plus a range of deep dives into art and human perception all in all, this place is guaranteed to get your creative juices flowing. Thank you! Scream while fleeing from monsters wielding fake chainsaws and diabolical clowns, wind through mazes full of ghouls, then enjoy greasy carnival food at one of Southern California's longest-running . Its also one of LAs most beloved free attractions and one of the most popular things to do in California! Where would you start your day? There are also plenty of places to eat and drink, plus shopping and entertainment districts, making it easy to spend an entire day or more! Parking is available near the market at the cost of $4 USD for the first 90 minutes. 1. Different from your traditional zoo, the Safari Park is all about, well, safaris, offering visitors the chance to hop in a cart or off-road vehicle to drive past the likes of elephants, tigers, and rhinos as they meander around spacious fields. And recreate it they did, with charming houses painted in bright colors, a Hans Christian Andersen statue, windmills, and even a replica of Copenhagens Round Tower. Start from the historic ruins of the Sutro Baths and make your way toward the Golden Gate Bridge. Consider yourself a foodie? Disneyland, located in Anaheim, is California's premier family destination and one of the top family vacation destinations in the US. Kickstart your day with a stop into the Steinhart Aquarium where touch tanks, educational feeding shows, shark tunnels, and a giant octopus tank await; then learn all about the Milky Way and beyond at the Morrison Planetarium. Californias redwoods, also known as Sequoia sempervirens or Hyperion, are not only the tallest trees in the world, theyre also pretty ancient, with some of them reaching 2,000 years old. Feeling peckish? And if youre feeling lucky, keep an eye out for elk, deer, coyotes, and even bears! San Franciscos Chinatown is truly a sight to behold, with the gilded Dragons Gate and glowing red lanterns looming over you at its entrance. One for the adrenaline junkies, Six Flags justifiably dubbed the Thrill Capital of the World dishes up g-force, excitement, and twists and turns in spades with some of the most exhilarating roller coasters on the West Coast! Read our guide to visiting Pinnacles National Park. You can also take in the many endangered California condors, North America's largest birds, or spot migrating whales in the ocean below. Throughout the year, various types of whales make their annual migration from Alaska to Mexico and back, which means the whole coast of California is a prime whale watching area. Attracting around 750,000 annual visitors, Hearst Castle (really, more of a mansion museum) is a National Historic Landmark. Well touch on some of the highlights, however, make sure to check out our dedicated list if you want to dive deep into the variety of things to do in Lake Tahoe. However, even if you dont head up the tower itself, the views from the publically-accessible base platform are still top-notch! There are two spots in California that are known as migration hot spots for monarch butterflies Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz and the Monarch Butterfly Grove in Pismo Beach (south of Big Sur). There was an error submitting your subscription. Be warned, however, youll be walking up a few hills to get there! Lets start with the most popular things to do in California that everyone should do at least once to fully embrace everything the Golden State has to offer. Big Sur Nick Fox/Shutterstock Another classic California drive is through Big Sur, with plenty of scenic pullovers at places like the magnificent Bixby Bridge. Plus, where to stay and where to eat on the way. California wine predates California statehood, with Spanish Missionaries planting the first grapes in the 1700s. For those who want their thrills up close and personal, make sure to visit during autumns Fright Fest, where youll find 16+ Mazes, scare zones, and roaming monsters that scream Halloween. The Legion of Honor is where you can see the new exhibits, displaying art in various ways and from different artists. And finally, lavender farms are also a popular thing in California, especially around Napa and Sonoma. 01 of 21 Drive Down One of the World's Most Crooked Streets Terry Richards / Getty Images Lombard Street, located in San Francisco, which runs from the Embarcadero to Telegraph Hill, is famous for its one-block stretch of road in the Russian Hill neighborhood, between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. Throw in concession stands, a vibrant atmosphere, and plenty of on-site bars and souvenir shops, and youve got yourself a great day out! If youre looking for a fun-filled day out with the kids, Californias Great America is hard to beat. Although its aimed at families with children aged under 12 years old, theres plenty for adults to enjoy too (not least the impressive Miniland USA section which recreates famous US landmarks entirely from LEGO bricks). Two of the best places to see California elephant seals are Ao Nuevo State Park near Santa Cruz and Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery near Hearst Castle. Featuring roller coasters, water rides, and animal shows (including the spectacular Orca show), is a great place to spend a day if youre looking for some family fun. Solvang is known for its Danish-inspired architecture complete with windmills and wineries, as well as Danish bakeries and the bountiful amount of Danish flags within city limits. Make sure to check these incredible activities, known to be some of the best theme parks in California, as well as a few ones nearby not to miss! However, things to do in Anaheim besides Disneyland range from breweries to professional sports to cultural activities. Check Major Road Closures in CA via this official Map. We've probably missed out some real hot spots, but we've just only booked it so its in the preliminary stages. LA VIP Shopping Day. Santa Cruz Island is the best for first-time visitors. November is usually the best month to see the most butterflies. Hollywood Walk of Fame - Los Angeles Posing with a sidewalk star along the Hollywood Walk of Fame is practically a rite of passage for a California vacation. Plenty of tourist-focused biking, bussing, or catamaran tours make their way over (or under) the bridge simply pick your poison and enjoy one of the most unforgettable experiences in San Francisco. Read my guide to the best things to do in Point Reyes. As the hottest, driest, lowest National Park on the globe, youd expect nothing but desert contrary to that stereotype, Death Valley actually sports a range of wildlife (unique to the area, of course) and activities: race down the Sand Dunes near Stovepipe Wells, take a scenic drive, or tackle one of the many mountain biking routes. What to do? Home to the locally beloved Giants, who have won eight World Series titles in the past, Oracle Park is a San Francisco sporting Mecca, boasting a great view from all angles thanks to its sunken field design and state-of-the-art stadium technology. The most iconic bridge on the West Coast (and, arguably, across the world), San Franciscos Golden Gate has been delighting visitors for the better part of a century (dating back to 1937, to be exact). To help guide your exploration of the Golden State, we've compiled a list of 49 must-see sites in California. One of the great things about California is its diverse landscape. But touring it, whether through biking, hiking, driving over it, or taking a guided tour, is magical. In the below video Jericha, also a California local, covers her 91 favorite things to do in California : Hollywood Walk of Fame Find your favorite celebrity's dedication star on the Walk of Fame The famous Hollywood Blvd, where the stars are located From Mendocino to the Monterey Bay and down to San Diego, youll find whale watching opportunities and tours on offer at most times of the year. Along the way, youll experience stunning coastal views, seaside towns, hushed redwood forests, and more. About halfway between San Diego and Palm Springs sits Anza-Borrego Desert State Park the largest of the California State Parks. One of the most impressive parks and top things to do in the Bay Area, Point Reyes National Seashore boasts gorgeous coastal views, bountiful wildlife, and a good dose of history. Read my full guides to the best things to do in Lake Tahoe, North vs South Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe camping, and where to stay in Lake Tahoe. Highlights include the 1-mile loop trail in the Hidden Valley; Keys View for epic sunset panoramas; and Barker Dam, a great spot for a nature hike and bighorn sheep-spotting. Today, more tourists than locals use cable cars to get around but its still one of those quintessential things to do in San Francisco with a first-time visit. One of the best things to do in California is indulge in unique artistry at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. After youre done with the rides, shows, and tours at Universal Studios, grab dinner and go shopping at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. If youre looking for some fun outside of the parks, this is the place to be! FAQ: Where are the Coastal Redwoods in California (added Oct 2013). Really, the best way to describe its atmosphere is post-apocalyptic. Or if youre feeling adventurous, witness the awesome beauty of Yosemite National Park in winter when most of the crowds are gone and the park becomes a hushed winter wonderland. With 840 miles of sparkling coastline and hundreds of sandy beaches, its hard to know where to start when it comes to exploring the beach culture in California. The latest addition to the citys booming museum scene is The Broad, which opened its doors on Grand Avenue downtown in 2015. Colorful and mesmerizing, Pinnacles National Park, located about a two-hour drive from San Francisco and an hour inland from Monterey, is an archeologists heaven on earth, home to the remains of an ancient volcanic field that erupted over 23 million years ago which, as youll see, has created some truly remarkable natural formations. Immerse yourself in the engulfing sounds and smells of nature at the Osher Rainforest, and finish off the trip with insights into dinosaurs, animals, and human evolution at the Kimball Natural History Museum. The Atlas Heart is a space where you'll find local tips, guides, and first-hand knowledge about gear & products, destinations, and everything the Golden State has to offer. Little Italy, Old Town, and Little Saigon in San Diego, Catch a sports game, take your pick from MLB, NBA, NFL, MLS, or NHL, Dance the weekend away at a music festival a few to choose from include Coachella, Outside Lands, Stagecoach, BottleRock Napa Valley, and Lightning in a Bottle, Eat at the nicest Taco Bell in the World in Pacifica, Go for a hike in Calaveras Big Trees State Park, Explore the Forestiere Underground Gardens in, Drive the scenic Fresno County Blossom Trail, Do a self-guided tour of the local breweries, especially in craft beer hotspots like San Diego (read my guide to the, Make a stop at the iconic Madonna Inn (and sneak a peek at the bathrooms), See the oldest tree in the world at the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Visit apple orchards in the fall in places like Julian or Apple Hill (read my guide to the best, Get into the fall spirit at a Half Moon Bay pumpkin patch (Half Moon Bay is the pumpkin capital of the world), Hear the whistling sand dunes at Mojave Preserve, Watch the sunrise at Fonts Point at Anza Borrego Desert State Park, Snap a picture with the metal sculptures near Anza Borrego Desert State Park at Galleta Meadows, See the fall foliage in June Lake and Bishop Creek, Road trip the 21 California Missions (from San Francisco to Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and all the way down to San Diego). Not sure where to start? Nested in the heart of Balboa Park (a stones throw from a host of other attractions) the zoo is home to more than 12,000 animals (including pandas! Fort Bragg and the Glass Beach. A must-do on any California road trip and one of the best cheap things to do in California is to grab a meal from In-N-Out Burger. Head to San Diego to taste its famous fish tacos, which can be found for as little as $2 on Taco Tuesdays. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Los Angeles - Tripadvisor A rare urban archeological zone, the La Brea Tar Pits offer a glimpse into Southern Californias prehistoric past with its trove of fossils and artifacts from some of the earths first inhabitants, including saber-toothed cats, mastodons, wooly mammoths, dire wolves even remains from our earliest human ancestors. California has a lot of Instagram spots but some of the most famous revolve around wildflower season in the spring and summer. Although marine life usually gets most of the attention on the West Coast, one of the most magical things to see in California is a eucalyptus forest thats filled with thousands of monarch butterflies. With COVID-19 restrictions easing, here's a list of places you must In San Diego, the 120 brands at Las Americas Premium Outlets are a crowd favorite, while the San Francisco Premium Outlets deliver another 180 stores (and will transport you from Downtown). Crawl up and down State Route 99 to seek out the regions finest taco stands, mulita specialists, enchilada masters, pan dulce shops, and more. Located on an elevated perch, this iconic observatory offers stunning views of the shining lights of Los Angeles and beyond. Whether youre a beginner or an experienced surfer, theres a wave waiting for you somewhere; San Diego and Orange County are particularly popular areas, but Malibu, Santa Cruz (Steamer Lane), and Monterey (particular Asilomar State Beach) also have some world-class waves. Wander around and take in the ornate details, see a show at the onsite theater, or stop for a picnic on the lawns by the lagoon either way, its definitely a spot worth lingering in. Straddling the shores of Monterey Bay, about 90 minutes drive south of San Francisco about 45 minutes north of Monterey itself, Santa Cruz is famous for its entertaining combination of surfable sandy beaches, towering redwood forests, diverse foodie scene, and longstanding wine history. A perfect place to soak up the sun and escape the large crowds of LA, San Diego, and Orange County, Palm Springs is a historical and celebrity-frequented desert oasis thats home to some of Californias most luxurious resorts. If we can't it'll probably be a train job. Climb to the top of the South Tower. Its no secret that Californians love a regular dose of retail therapy, and whether youre in San Fransico, San Diego, or anywhere in between, youre never too far away from a good old-fashioned bargain. Need summer plans? shopping? Although its not exactly a place for swimming (for obvious reasons), a stroll along its shoreline makes for an excellent afternoon or morning activity. Highly interactive and designed for kids and adults alike, the Exploratorium at the historic Pier 15 is a science museum like no other dubbed a scientific funhouse, it provides a space to joyfully learn, play, and experiment simultaneously. 35 Best Things to do in California & Places to Visit - ViaTravelers Bus Tours. If youre looking for fun things to do with friends in California, theres nothing better than soaking in a natural hot spring with an incredible view in front of you. Here are 31 things to do in California and why they'll rock your socks off! July 4 2023 fireworks: How to buy, where to watch and what's canceled Aside from exploring the geologic features on foot or bike including boiling mud pots, clear mountain lakes, natural hot springs, and even an active volcano visitors can enjoy fishing, camping, cross-country skiing, and more in this lesser-known corner of California. Most companies offer rides starting early in the morning, including a champagne toast (or two) as part of the experience and a friendly guide wholl wax lyrical about all the marvelous sights below.
