Things To Do In San Diego

Stocked with classic beaches, the country’s most famous zoo and acting as the ersatz gateway to the splendors of Mexico, the list of things to do in San Diego California could last for pages. But here are some of the highlights.

Explore the Gaslamp Quarter

Covering sixteen blocks of downtown San Diego, this quarter is a national historic district, and includes unique specialty shops, an impressive array of exquisite Mexican restaurants, and the majority of the city’s better bars and nightclubs. If you are looking for things to do in San Diego CA, this is a great place to start.

Sunbathe along Pacific Beach

San Diego is well-known for its beaches, and here is where the young and beautiful congregate on a sunny day. A visit Pacific Beach is a must on any list of things to do in San Diego CA, and wandering the surrounding streets are a perfect way to get acquainted with this seaside city. Featuring seafood restaurants and surf shops dotting the streets, Pacific Beach is also another mainstay of the city’s nightlife, meaning there’s always something going on near the coast, day or night.

Go Whale Watching

The winter months bring these majestic creatures to the waters surrounding San Diego and Baja Mexico. From December to March, this is one of the most popular things to do in San Diego California – not only will you see whales, but the equally lovable dolphins that call these waters home.

Visit nearby La Jolla

Taking the highlights of San Diego and distilling them into a small and romantic seaside town, La Jolla is a laid-back suburb, an unconventional shopper’s paradise, and home to hundreds of sea lions, who laze around the shores during the day and make their sandy beds there at night. If you are looking to get away a little bit, this is one of the best things to do in San Diego CA.

Take a Side Trip to Mexico

Sure, most people leaving San Diego don't venture further south than Tijuana - but you don’t have to stop at this border town to enjoy Mexico. Whether you are going to party, explore, or it’s your first glimpse into our neighbor to the south, there are many coastal towns along the Baja Peninsula that are well worth your time. Cities like Ensenada and Rosarita are only a short drive away, and getting in the car and heading south is one of the best things to do in San Diego California.

Head to Sea World

A city famous for its aquatic life, you can do little better than stop at Sea World. Dolphins, seals, orcas, penguins and others are here to entertain, enrapture and enlighten you. Especially if you have kids, this is one of the most popular things to do in San Diego CA – and even if you don’t, this water park holds some of the most adorable creatures on the face of the earth.

Things To Do In Sacramento

Whether it’s your first or tenth time, there are numerous things to do in Sacramento California. The state capital offers a wide variety of activities for both young and old, for those seeking the future, or the past.

Old Sacramento

The soul of the city is located in the Old Town. Millions of visitors make the trek into the city’s historic district – it is without a doubt one of the most popular things to do in Sacramento CA. Once the epicenter of the 19^th century gold rush, it is now 28 acres of cobblestone roads and antique buildings, displaying the rustic beauty that used to epitomize the Old West.

California State Railroad Museum

Always a bit hit with children – whether they are train buffs or not – the Railroad Museum is the largest of its kind in America. The detailed restoration of aging locomotives is the high point of the museum, and the careful attention the museum pays to recreating an era when railroading was a new and fascinating form of transportation makes the Railroad Museum one of the top things to do in Sacramento CA.

McKinley Park

Full of picturesque trails, winding brooks and enthusiastic aquatic wildlife – McKinley Park is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. You can tell you are not the only one with this idea, however, by its popularity with picnickers, joggers and generally everyone else you’d expect to be enjoying a park on a warm day. The twilight hours are especially kind - watching the dusk settle into night in McKinley Park is just another of the great things to do in Sacramento California.

Sutter’s Fort

If you are looking for fascinating things to do in Sacramento CA, look no further than Sutter’s Fort - another throwback to the days of the Gold Rush, it is one of the city’s defining monuments. Constructed in 1839, visitors can relive the old days here, the fort strives to re-enact the past with a collection of costumed docents acting out a typical day during the fort’s heyday. This informative slice of American history makes it one of the best things to do in Sacramento California.

Old Ironsides

A renowned spot for touring bands, Old Ironsides is a great place to take a break from the city sights. Whether you are coming in for the tasty lunch menu, taking advantage of happy hour or looking to experience a little bit of raucous nightlife, Old Ironsides will be perfect. The stage is sectioned off from part of the bar, so even if the band is not your thing, Old Ironsides makes its case as one of the necessary things to do in Sacramento CA.

Downtown Plaza

For all your shopping needs, the Downtown Plaza will provide. Located just yards away from the city’s main historic district, the rapid move from the old-fashioned section of the city directly into the modern world is a testament to American progress. Complete with marketplaces alongside specialty shops and clothing boutiques, the Plaza feeds into an enormous mall that makes a visit here one of the most popular things to do in Sacramento California.

Things To Do In Palm Springs

Palm Springs first achieved notoriety as the “Playground for the Stars” in the mid 1930s. It was during this time that most glamorous of Hollywood icons flocked to the desert to bask in the luxury of the resorts and the surrounding natural beauty that the area had to offer. Today is no different, and there are plenty of things to do in Palm Springs California to entertain both the rich and illustrious, along with everyone else.

Tahquitz Canyon

If you are the outdoorsy type, this place if for you. Located in the Indian Canyons, a climb up Tahquitz Canyon is one of the most rewarding things to do in Palm Springs California – and since its main hiking trail is only a gradual ascent, travelers of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy the picturesque beauty that typifies the area. Palm Springs attractions are everywhere, but the waterfalls, rock art and intricate guided tours puts Tahquitz Canyon at the top of the list.

Aerial Tramway

Another great way to explore Palm Springs is by its aerial tramway. Over the course of 15 minutes, you will be lifted 8,500 feet into the San Jacinto Mountains, a sharp contrast to the desert floor where the tram picks up. In the winter, you can move from the heat of the desert into the snowy terrain of the mountains in mere minutes, and a trip is always one of the most popular things to do in Palm Springs, so expect a line when you get there. After 3pm, the tram ride is cheaper, plus you’ll get to take in the sunset from the city’s highest vantage point – if you time it right.

Le Donne Cucina

This city is well-noted as one of the culinary capitals of the West Coast, and Le Donne Cucina serves up some of the best Italian cuisine this side of Bologna. If authentic Italian food is your thing, this will be one of your favorite Palm Springs attractions.

Casablanca Lounge

Still rich with the old-time glamour still remains within the city’s most popular nightlife, follow in the footsteps of luminaries like Frank Sinatra and Humphrey Bogart at one of the most popular bars in Palm Springs. Whether you are looking to recapture old glories or are just curious to see where the stars use to go to recharge (and occasionally still do), the Casablanca Lounge will be one of the highlights of your Palm Springs vacation.

Classic Club Golf

Glitzy resorts. Natural beauty. These are all well and good, but many visitors head out to Palm Springs for the world famous golf courses. They don’t call if the “Golf Capital of the World” just for fun. And the Classic Club Golf course, home to the annual PGA Tour Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, is the pinnacle of things to do in Palm Springs California if you are anything approaching a golf aficionado.

Elite Land Tour

Heading out at dusk, this is the best way to see the natural splendor of Palm Springs at night. Spanning both Palm Springs and Joshua Tree, this adventure tour is one of the most popular things to do in Palm Springs California for vacationing families. You get to see all kinds of wildlife and anything else the desert has to offer from the comfort of a fully stocked Hummer, and even get to scour the desert with your very own pair of night vision goggles.

San Jose Tech Museum

Once upon a time, the San Jose Tech Museum was just a mere dream. In 1978, enthusiastic members of the Junior League of Palo Alto joined with the San Jose League to collaborate on their vision of an exciting learning center that would be devoted to science and technology. The first 20,000 square foot temporary exhibit made its debut in 1990. In October of 1998, the San Jose Tech Museum opened its doors. The facility was 132,000 square feet. That day 2,800,000 visited the San Jose Tech Museum.

Tech Museum Today, the Tech Museum in San Jose is also known as the Tech Museum of Innovation or simply The Tech. The Tech Museum in San Jose is located in Silicon Valley, in the downtown section of San Jose. The major focuses of the Tech Museum in San Jose is technology and its effects on who we are and how we live, work, play and learn. The Tech has become both a research center as well as an educational and cultural venue for visitors and local alike. The museum serves as a showcase for latest high-tech gizmos and gadgets that are the essence Silicon Valley. Because of its versatility, it has become a major San Jose tourist attraction.

The San Jose Tech Museum is composed of three fascinating floors. Each of these floors has its own special significance. Like any other San Jose museum, the ground floor is where you will find the main entrance, a unique gift shop and cafe, the IMAX Theater, and a recreational area that is set aside for special events. The Hackworth IMAX Theater is named after Mike and Joan Hackworth. This popular San Jose tourist attraction shows a variety of 3-D movies such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to Batman Begins. Sport films are phenomenal on IMAX. If you could not make it to the Tour de France, you’ll love to see Wired to Win: Surviving the Tour de France. While you may have seen these films at the theaters on television or on video, it is quite amazing to watch them with crystal clear images ranging up to eight stories high. With 13,000 watts of wrap-around digital surround sound, you will believe that you are truly part of the film.

The second floor of the Tech Museum in San Jose is where you can find most of the permanent exhibits. Occasionally, many of these exhibits become modified. The lower level of the San Jose Tech Museum contains the areas for temporary exhibits which are often changed. Since there is always something new at the museum, it remains a popular San Jose tourist attraction.

The Board of Directors of the San Jose Tech Museum has a definitive mission. They believe that future of the well-being of the United States is dependent innovation and development in advanced technologies. With this in mind, they strive to inspire students with interactive exhibits, empower teachers with training in the current technological applications and enable visitors from parts of the world to explore and enjoy the wonders of technology.

Fairmont Hotel San Jose

The Fairmont Hotel San Jose combines the wonders of modern technological innovation with the timeless elegance of old world charm. Perhaps this is why many heads of state and royalty stay at the Fairmont when they visit San Jose California. From the moment you enter the luxurious lobby, you will be dazzled by the glamorous chandeliers that hang in their grandeur above the large, tempting sofas. The Fairmont Hotel San Jose is conveniently located in close proximity to the Convention Center and the Center of Performing Arts. This highly impressive San Jose Hotel is in a landmark building. The Fairmont Hotel in San Jose is a popular spot to relax and enjoy afternoon tea or cocktails. The lobby itself attracts many who are just passing through, especially those who are staying in the cheap San Jose hotels, but wish to experience the opulence of the Fairmont.

The guest rooms of the Fairmont San Jose offer many of the modern, high tech features you would expect of a San Jose hotel in Silicon Valley. These include fax and high-speed modem lines and a dataport. Other amenities include 24-hour room service, terry cloth robes, ultra-fine bedding and top quality fragrant bath products.

The beautiful rooftop swimming pool is gracefully surrounded by tropical foliage. If you are attending a technology convention, at the end of the day, relax your mind at the Fairmont San Jose spa, or invigorate your body at the gym. Personal trainers are available. Unlike the typical gyms at the cheap hotels in San Jose, the fitness center at the Fairmont San Jose features free weights, Life Cycles, Cybex Strength Equipment, Stairmasters and Treadmills. After your workout, you can relax in the steam or sauna.

The Spa at The Fairmont Hotel San Jose features some excellent treatments. Massages include Swedish, Sports and La Stone. The “Ultimate Experience” treatment combines a hand, shoulder and foot massage with a facial especially designed for your personal skin type. The Deep Cleansing Treatment includes deep cleansing and exfoliation, hydrating steam, revitalizing mask, skin reconditioning and a heavenly massage of the face and neck. Other treatments include a Gentleman’s Facial, an Acne Skin Treatment, a Glycolic Skin Treatment and a Moisture Boost Treatment.

After your workout, swim and spa treatment, you will want to experience the wonderful dining choices that this marvelous San Jose Hotel has to offer. Do you like Chinese food? Why not enjoy it a restaurant that is located in an area that has a strong Asian heritage. The Bamboo Lounge at the Pagoda Restaurant has an enticing selection of Asian appetizers and entrees.

Given that you are in seafood country, it would be a shame to be in a San Jose hotel and not savor the joys of coastal California seafood. McCormick & Schmick's at the Fairmont San Jose is a renowned seafood authority. The restaurant is known to combine the best aspects of California cuisine by serving awesome seafood selections with the best of California wine.

San Jose

San Jose is the capitol of the high tech world and the Mecca of Silicon Valley. This clean, modern city is home to cutting edges museums and near perfect weather.

San Jose California also used to be the first state capitol of the state of California, and today the city exceeds San Francisco as the biggest city in the Bay Area.

While it may not be home to major attractions when you compare it to cities like Los Angeles, San Jose California is a significant population center in the San Francisco Bay Area. San Jose is south of San Francisco, a short 45-minute drive north. Many travelers get cheaper plane tickets when they fly into San Jose International Airport, since flights to California often cost more if they’re landing in San Francisco.

San Jose California has some of the most innovative museums, so it is a leader in a cultural aspect in addition to the technological. The Discovery Childrens Museum is a fun, interactive museum where kids and adults can learn in a fun way. Over 3 million visitors have come to the Discovery Childrens Museum since it first opened in 1990. The excitement of visiting this San Jose CA museum never ends, since there are whole new interactive exhibits every year at the Discovery Childrens Museum. The museum was expanded in 1997, and today, more visitors than ever come to visit this interesting purple building.

The San Jose Tech Museum has been around about the same time. The idea for this high-tech learning center was first born in 1978. You can see technological innovations that are now an everyday part of life, and the latest software gadgets showcased in fun interactive exhibits. There is a Tech challenge every years that more that 8,000 kids have come to over the part eleven years that this event has been held. It is obvious that San Jose California is a forward thinking city. It is also ethnically diverse, clean and safe, making it a model city.

There are also pieces of history alive in San Jose CA, such as its Mission. This church was rebuilt on it original site in 1982. When its was rededicated in 1985, The San Jose Mission looked a lot like it did when it was first erected in 1809. You can see the beautiful church interior which takes you a time long past.

Some San Jose hotels have just as much significance, and the Hotel De Anza is no exception. A tranquil courtyard and elegant lobby set the Hotel De Ana from other San Jose Hotels, along with its reputation of being a local landmark as well as a luxury boutique hotel that is right in the center of downtown. One of the fun perks is the late night deli buffet, so guests are welcome to raid the pantry, and feel right at home here since they are welcome at this complimentary benefit that any other Hotel San Jose California wouldn’t provide.

The hotels Valencia has one of the most visually impressive rooms that compare well to any other Hotel San Jose California you can find. The dark colors of the carpet and fine mahogany furniture contrasts pleasantly with the bright gleaming restrooms. Every bed is covered with a sumptuous faux-fur cover, so you can rest in style and luxury that is a notch above other Hotel San Jose California has to offers you. You won’t sacrifice convenience when you stay at the Hotel Valencia, since it has high sped Internet in every guests room, along with a Cisco IP phone. You will be hard pressed to find this winning combination of luxury and understated technology at other San Jose Hotels.

These hotels and attractions reflects the flavor of San Jose CA; a city with an irresistible mix of innovation, luxury and technology, with a dash of history.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a city known for its views, cuisine, and historic attractions. With its resident sea lions, antique Cable Cars, vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown, San Francisco California is one of the most interesting and enjoyable places to visit with a mryiad of things to do.

Archeologists suggest that the Ohlone Indians settled in the region at about 500 A.D and San Francisco was the population center. Back then, its natural beauty, plentiful wildlife and abundant fish, made it a natural choice for the Ohlone Indians. The first Europeans to visit the area were the Spanish in 1776. San Francisco then began to take on the shape of a larger population center. Landmarks like the Presidio and Mission Dolores church were built after the Spanish found the entrance to San Francisco Bay and began to colonize the area.

It wasn't until the California Gold Rush that San Francisco grew from a small town to a teeming city that was quickly growing. From all parts the world people flocked to California. Inevitably, they stopped in San Francisco, which had a large shipping port. The Barbary Coast was filled with a menagerie of people and cultures, which would converge on the saloons and bawdy houses that sprung up almost overnight.

Within twenty years, thousands of Chinese had arrived as laborers. Irish, French, Italian, Germans, Russians, and Jews all arrived here as well, and all of these cultures have a large community in San Francisco California.

1906 San Francisco Earthquake Over the next 50 years, the city would undergo changes and in 1937 the opening of the Golden Gate Bridge put the city on the map. Historical landmarks like Mission Dolores and the Cable Car let you view the history of the city when you take one of the San Francisco tours. There are walking tours, as well as a motorized replica of a Cable Car that will take you around the city. The Ferry Building was recently renovated and now has an excellent farmers market that sells quality foods from the region.

Attractions like Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Fisherman's Wharf are fun, but when you stop to think about how old they are, you will get a sense for what San Francisco is famous for. With its incredible views from the top of steep hills, rows of well-kept Victorian homes, and historic neighborhoods filled with quaint Italian eateries, visitors in San Francisco soon realize that this city has a charm unlike any other place. Grey Line, on the motorized red Cable Car, or on foot, does San Francisco tours. Since the city is filled with history, it's helpful to have a guide giving you historical information on the things you see, so you can appreciate the sights.

Coit tower, Twin Peaks, and the colorful San Francisco neighborhoods gives a tourist more to do once you've been to the tourist attractions like Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square. San Francisco vacation packages save you a great deal of money on airfare, hotel, and tickets to area attractions. Whether you take a cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy a sourdough bread bowl filled with fresh chowder or take the Cable Cars up to North Beach and immerse yourself in one of the premiere districts in the country for Italian food, San Francisco California can accommodate you.

There are many different attractions, and so many hotels and travel agencies will offer San Francisco vacation packages to help you save time and money during your trip. You can tailor your trip to include anything you like and avoid the hassle or waiting in long ticket lines in the summer sun when you book one of the many San Francisco vacation packages. If you're inspired to visit the city by the bay, talk to your travel agent today, to take a trip you will never forget.

Things To Do In Hollywood

Whether you’re staying in Los Angeles and its surrounding areas, or in Southern California, or even right in Hollywood, this star-studded area is full of history and glamour to explore. Here are some of the top things to do in Hollywood:

Hollywood Sign

An icon since 1923, the Hollywood sign is a must for any visitor simply because it is so well known. Viewing the sign is possible from several spots around town, but one of the easiest is the intersection of Hollywood and Highland near the Chinese Theatre. The best part is that this is one of the free things to do in Hollywood.

Graumans Chinese Theatre

The most desirable place in town for red-carpet movie premiers is also a great place to go catch an evening movie. Formerly known as Mann’s Chinese Theatre, this is a great jumping off spot for other fun things to do in Hollywood such as viewing the sign or touring the Walk of Fame.

Walk of Fame and Hollywood Boulevard

Another must-see is the Walk of Fame. Just outside the Chinese Theatre are the most iconic names of stage and screen, but the stars traipse up and down Hollywood Boulevard. Along with the stars, an elaborate self-guided walking along the Boulevard is among the free things to do in Hollywood, leading anyone interested through this historic town’s past.

Watch a TV show live

Lots of TV shows tape elsewhere, but there are still enough around to add this to your list of things to do in Hollywood. Check online for studio audience tickets or ask at your place of lodging in town for a ticket vender.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Where San Jose has the Winchester Mystery House, Hollywood has the Forever Cemetery. Among the fun things to do in Hollywood for those who love a good ghost story (check out legends online or in a book before you go), beautiful design, or want to pay respects to great actors and actresses, visiting the cemetery is by tour only.

Universal Studios

An amusement park and more, Universal Studios is one of the fun things to do in Hollywood for the whole family. Rides, sets from famous movies, shows, shopping, and food make sure you can’t go wrong. After you’re done, check out CityWalk for more food, shopping, and fun.

Hollywood Entertainment Museum

Memorabilia, costumes, and actual sets from Cheers and Star Trek make this a good choice of things to do in Hollywood.

Paramount Pictures

The last major studio still working in Hollywood, Paramount Pictures offers a tour giving a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of movie making.

Los Angeles Zoo

If all the things to do in Hollywood get to be too tinsel for you, take a break by visiting this nearby world-class zoo with 1,200 animals from around the world and a large botanical collection as well.

The Original Farmer’s Market

Another way to step away from the glimmer of fame is to visit the Farmer’s Market on Third Street. Bringing together an array of restaurants, shops, and fresh produce, the Market is another of the sometimes rare free things to do in Hollywood.

Things To Do In Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is a hotspot of fashion and star spotting, but don’t think that’s all there is here. From luxury boutique shopping to tours to surprisingly interesting museums, this relatively small area near Los Angeles, Westwood, and Hollywood is full of things to do.

Rodeo Drive

Perhaps the best known of Beverly Hills attractions, this strip of shopping and dining hotspots is home to tourists, shopping aficionados, and stars alike. All the top stores are located here either on Rodeo Drive itself or cross streets. One particular cross street to watch for is Via Rodeo, a more modern addition to the area that will make you feel like you’re strolling down a European avenue. Window shopping is no crime here, but don’t miss the people watching either. Free parking is available, and avoid Sundays as many stores close down.

Trolley Tours

Like San Francisco, Beverly Hills has an open-air trolley to whisk you along a narrated tour route. One of your best options for Beverly Hills tours, these trolleys stop by well-known sites such as Rodeo Drive as well as historical and architectural spots around town. Tours depart from the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way for most of the year, but not all of it. Tours do not run in the rain.

Segway Tours

Another more unique option for Beverly Hills tours is to ride a Segway through town and see all the Beverly Hills attractions from your very own two-wheeled, gyroscope-balanced vehicle. Currently, a company named Segwow operates the tours, but ask at your hotel or at a tourist office for help locating a tour company or contact information.

Greystone Mansion

Built in 1928 for the son of an oil tycoon, Greystone Mansion today is one of the best things to do in Beverly Hills and remains the largest home ever built in this city. While visitors cannot go inside, several outdoor areas of the nearly 20 acres surrounding the Mansion as well as an inner courtyard are open to the public for free. Find a list of how many movies have been shot on the grounds and inside the home and be astounded.

Barakat Gallery

Perhaps your list of things to do in Beverly Hills does not yet include visiting a gallery filled with some of the finest ancient treasures anywhere, but it should. Located on Rodeo Drive, the Barakat Gallery has a collection of antiquities from Egypt to Asia to the Far East that rivals most museum collections.

Sunset Strip

Running between West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip is another excellent area for shopping and people watching, including the occasional celebrity sighting since many of them live in the area. Many Beverly Hills attractions can be found along the Strip, including nightclubs such as the Viper Room and Whiskey A GoGo.

J. Paul Getty Museum

With a collection started by oil millionaire J. Paul Getty, this museum has grown to include so many pieces of fine art that it takes this 9-building complex (4 exhibition pavilions) on 750 acres of land to house it. Inside, view artwork by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and other well-known artists; outside stroll through 24 acres of gardens. The museum is free, but there is a charge for the parking garage.

George Page Museum

Just a few miles away from Rodeo Drive, the George Page Museum offers just about the complete opposite of Beverly Hills—the La Brea tar pits. The tar pits have yielded over one million fossils, on display at the museum. If you need a break from designer stores and fashionable restaurants, try spending the day with mammoths, saber tooth tigers, or giant sloth fossils.

When To Go

Deciding when to go on your California vacation can really make a difference in the kind of experience you have. There are so many different regions and attractions that create different factors that can affect your California travel plans. Many of the larger attractions will offer a California vacation package, which often includes airfare, lodging, and tickets, so you can focus your energy on your family and friends instead of travel arrangements.

Aside from the weather, other factors like the tourist season have to be considered when you are making your California travel plans. In smaller areas like Napa, the crowds can be real problem for visitors who came to the area to ride on the Napa Valley dinner train and enjoy an idyllic California vacation in the peaceful wine country area of Northern California. You can avoid this by coming in the spring or fall, when the weather just sunny but not as hot as the summertime. Aside from buying a California vacation package, you can save a great deal by booking well in advance or traveling in the off-season.

Aside the California mountains and the High Sierra region, you will encounter comfortable weather on your California vacation. For some visitors, the 100 or more degrees of heat in the deserts of Southern California might not be considered comfortable, but it is the very reason visitors come to the California Beaches.

Travelers with asthma and respiratory ailments would be well advised to be aware of the smog in Los Angeles. In the summer, the heat of Southern California can increase the amounts of smog, making this city a hazard for those with sensitive lungs. If you're worried about this, you can bring an inhaler or a small facemask, so that the smog doesn't get in the way of your California travel plans.

In the north, fog and rain are the norm, with most of the rainfall occurring in the winter. In cities like San Francisco, it rains as you would expect in the winter, but in the summertime, a thick fog blows into the higher elevations in the city, clouding the sun with a cool wind.

Aside from crowds, prices rise considerably when demand is high. Prices for flights, attractions and California hotels increase quite a bit. Planning far ahead of time or using a discount airline ticket company can help you navigate these issues. A California vacation package to an attraction like Disneyworld or one of the ski resorts is a great way to save time and money, but it does require some advance planning.

Another option is going with a smaller hotel or a motel, which may not be the most luxurious option but it can help save you a lot of money on your California vacation.

Things To Do in California

If you planning a California vacation, this guide will help you figure out what to see and do in California. Having some information on the things to do in California can help you plan your trip, so that you can make the most out of your California travel plans. From the bronze stars of Hollywood to the red-orange hues of the Golden Gate, there is a lot to see and do in the Golden State.

One of the most scenic cities that is known all over the world is San Francisco. Most tourists come here to take a cruise to Alcatraz, visit the Golden Gate Bridge, and ride the Cable Car.

The inspiration for the Cable Car came when a horrible accident was witness by the man who would become to inventor of the Cable Car. Horses pulled the streetcars in the mid 1800s in San Francisco. On the incredibly steep, wet slopes of a hill in the city, five horses perished in a tragic accident, sparking the idea of a motorized car to safely traverse the steep hills of San Francisco.

Today you can still see original cars in use. The two main routes start at Powell and Market, where you can watch the Cable Car turnaround. You can take one of the lines up California Street. The Powell Mason line goes up Mason street and stops at the Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 area, while the Powell Hyde lines, and takes you to the same area, but goes further west and leaves you at Ghirardhelli Square. This is one of the most authentic things to do in California, so there is always some waiting involved when you visit the Cable Car.

Once you're in the Fishermans Wharf, you can miss the sign for Pier 39, since all the crowds and activity is centered around here. In the winter, there are sea lions that lounge on the floating docks, sunning themselves and occasionally making their odd barking noises. There are also a few that live here year-round. On Pier 39, there are attractions like the Aquarium of the Bay, which has a walk through tunnel, and various shops, restaurants, and arcades for kids. No visit to the wharf would be complete to Pier 39.

If you're in the Bay Area, make time to go to Napa Valley. This is an area northeast of San Francisco, is a peaceful grape-scented valley, whose ripening smells catch on the summer breeze. You can tour the wineries and sample excellent wines in the tasting rooms of the Napa Valley wineries, and top it off with a romantic evening on the Napa Valley Dinner Train. Here you can enjoy the countryside from the comfort of a train car as you enjoy fresh California cuisine. There are a number of charming bed and breakfasts in the area to spend the night at.

Further to the east, Lake Tahoe is a major destination to getting away for the weekend. From all over California, locals and visitors come here to ski, snowboard, or enjoy watching all the action while one simply relaxes in their Lake Tahoe vacation rentals. All year round there are things to do in California, from fishing, to mountain biking or relaxing by the beach in the summer. Lake Tahoe is in the High Sierra, close to the border with Nevada, and is only a few hours from San Francisco.

On the Central Coast, you should stop at visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium and then take the Famous 17 mile drive through Carmel to San Simeon. Stop at take pictures of the famous landmark, the Lone Cypress.

In Southern California, you should be sure not to miss Hollywood, Disneyland, and the famous Venice Beach, where the Doors used to hang out. There are lots of other California Beaches to visit in the area as well, like Malibu or Long Beach. Disneyland is the reason many tourists come to this region alone, since it is one of the most popular things to do in California. From the Chinese Theatre, to the movie studios to the walk of fame, Hollywood is a full days adventure, and one of the things to do in California you should make sure not to miss.

There are a few different parts of Disneyland, there is the main park and the smaller California Adventure theme park, which children and adults will enjoy.

Scenic Drives

With its miles of coastline, scenic state parks and outdoor California attractions like the Giant Redwoods; scenic drives can be enjoyed in any part of California. With some of the best rates in the country, the large vehicle rental companies all compete to have the most cheap car rental California has to offer the visitor.

State Route 29 is one of the lesser-known drives in California. This drive takes you through Napa Valley to Calistoga. You will drive through the sleepy Northern California town of St Helena, after which State Route 29 goes through a couple of State Parks that have areas for swimming, hiking, and camping. While not a road trip, the Napa Valley Dinner Train is also a great way to tour wine country.

Old Faithful is in Calistoga, so if you want to see one of the major California attractions, then you should take a ride on State Route 29. Just before you reach the Napa County line, right off the road you will run into Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, which is one of the last things you'll find on one of the most scenic drives in California.

17 Mile Drive is actually a part of Highway 1 but it is one of the most scenic drives in the state of California that it deserves its own moniker. Starting at Monterey and ending at Carmel, the 17 Mile Drive is a great way to see the Monterey Area. Pebble Beach golf course is set on these lovely, manicured grounds, and you must pay a toll to get on 17 Mile Drive and enjoy this most scenic area of the California coast. Stop and visit the Lone Cypress, a symbol of Monterey that is recognized all around the world. If you factor in airfare and the cost of guided tours, you will realize that touring the state in the most cheap car rental California has allows you to see it all at your own pace while saving hundred of dollars.

Highway 1 is truly the greatest of all the scenic drives in the Golden State. Stretching hundreds of miles, Highway 1 takes you all the way from Mendocino County in the Northern Coast to San Juan Capistrano, Orange County in Southern California.

If you drive south, you will be on the ocean side of the highway, so this is one of the best ways to see unimpeded views of the Pacific Ocean. On your way south from San Francisco, you will pass by the scenic Monterey Peninsula, home to the famous Monterey Aquarium and the lovely boardwalk and waterfront of Monterey.

Next, you will come upon the mystical shores are Big Sur, which stretches from Carmel just south of Monterey all the way down to San Simeon. These fog-shrouded areas of the Central Coast are simply beyond description. The closest thing you could compare this to is a lovely isle on the Ireland coast. Rocky cliffs, large boulders protruding out of the water, and the most inspiring, pristine beaches make you feel like a king, with everything you see as your castle.

As you wind towards San Luis Obispo past Central California beaches, the temperature begins to rise and the colors of the landscape have taken on a hue. The sun breaks through the coastal fog and you can see the rolling green foothills that occasionally block your views of the lush Central Valley.

Yosemite is one of the most visited parks in the state. Driving its 64-mile scenic route can be done whether you're just driving through or are spending a few days in the park. You will drive from west to east, seeing glacial lakes, sub alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, and dense forests of Evergreens filled with towering giant Sequoias, like in the Avenue of the Giants. One of the most scenic drives in California, you can choose to drive or hike on this beautiful road.

You can rent a car in this state more cheaply than you will find anywhere else in the country. California Car Rentals have some of the best deals around. So, what are you waiting for? Find the best cheap car rental California has and begin an adventurous, inexpensive tour of California State.

Events and Holidays

A state like California that is filled with tons of different cultures and regions has great outdoor festival and fairs all year round. California events range from wine and food tastings at area wineries to county fairs.

Chinese New Year has been celebrated in San Francisco for the past 150 years. Celebrated for the past 5,000 years in China, Chinese New Year is a spring festival that is two weeks long. The largest event of its kind outside of Asia, Chinese New Year also has a Flower Fair and a community street fair to showcase the rich Chinese culture. One of the largest California events in the northern part of the state, this vibrant parade is punctuated by hundreds of thousands of exploding firecrackers and a 200 foot long paper dragon.

There is a large Mexican American community in California. While San Francisco and Los Angeles are both major population centers for people of Mexican descent, this California events biggest display is in downtown Los Angeles, on Olvera Street. Cinco de Mayo is more than an excuse to party. This holiday is important to Mexicans because it was the day that the French forces were defeated in Puebla Mexico on the fifth day of May, 1862. Mexico and Los Angeles are two places have been intertwined for many years, and this festival can bring you closer to this lively celebration.

There are plenty of other interesting California events outside of the big cities like SF and Los Angeles. Californians love good food and wine, so the yearly Gilroy Garlic Festival is one of the most well-known food festivals in California. It all started with the Rotary Club luncheon that featured a menu with garlic in every dish. 27 years later, the festival is still popular. Held on the last weekend in July to mark the end of the garlic harvest, the Gilroy Garlic Festival has live shows, arts and crafts stall, and a Garlic Queen Pageant.

Be sure to stroll down Gourmet Alley if you go to the Gilroy Garlic Festival - here you can try all the garlic dishes from garlic soups to garlic ice cream. The cook off is an exciting part of the event. This is where all the kooky garlic recopies are reviewed and the best 8 invited to prepare them and enjoy a final award from a tasting panel of celebrity chefs.

With so many Californians that are involved in sports and outdoor activities, it is no wonder that many take part in triathlons. One of the most well known in the country is Ironman. The Ironman Triathlon is an international competition, held in destinations all over the world, culminating in a final challenge in Kona, Hawaii. Only a few US states host part of the Ironman competition. Knowing that you are watching what will eventually be an international competition in Hawaii adds to the excitement of attending the Ironman triathlon, which has separate competitions for women and men.

A fun way to enjoy the outdoors and all the best California has to offers is at a state or county fair. In the capitol Sacramento, the California state fair has been held for since 1854. Events like livestock competitions are still a part of the state fair, but this festival does not focus on the longest peanuts or the largest beets anymore.

There is also a county fair that you can find in just about every mid-sized city in California. This is the perfect setting for family fun and diversion, with amusement park games, carnival style-rides, and educational exhibits on interesting topics, like bears and exploring the woods. A county fair is going to be smaller than the state fair, but with more of a local feeling you enjoy from going to one.

California event tickets can be purchased easily online. Online outlets allow you the option of having tickets mailed to you or on a will call basis. Often, the prices are higher if you buy your tickets on the same day as the events. Certain events may not have pre-sale tickets, so the fastest way to find out when or if the tickets will go on sale ahead of time is to look online, since online ticket booking places will know ahead of time when the tickets will go on sale. Many California event tickets are only available at the gates, so if you're planning to attend an event its wise to do some research ahead of time. While it is easy to get tickets for events like concerts and the symphony, smaller fairs and festivals are some of the hardest California event tickets to obtain ahead of time. All you can do is arrive early, get in line, and hope they don't sell out.

Whatever you are looking to enjoy in the Golden State, California events like fairs, parades and festivals give you a taste of culture and entertainment at the same time.

cheap flights to California

Getting in and out the airport can be expensive as well. San Francisco Airport came up with a great solution to this problem and extended the light rail BART service to go to SFO. Now, it is only a few dollars and a quick train ride to the financial district and the attractions of San Francisco.

Both San Francisco and Los Angeles can be expensive to visit, so you can save a lot of money by booking your flight to go to either San Francisco Airport or LAX. You can also save money by doing some research online. You can get cheap airfare whether you're going to a ski resort or a theme park when you buy a California vacation package. At the ski resorts, lodging, lift tickets, lessons, and rentals are often available in one price. At a theme park, your California vacation package will likely include airfare, hotel, and park admission.

If you’re looking for discount airline tickets, the web is an invaluable tool. If you're using a search engine to find your cheap flights to California, then you always want to enter the nearest major airport to your destination, like LAX or the San Francisco Airport. It’s always cheaper to get a California car rental than to pay more for your airline tickets to get close to where you want to go.

If you keep these tips in mind, you can find good rates and discount airline tickets so that you have more spending money on your California vacation.

Airlines and Flights California

Visitors come from all over the US and the entire world to experience what a California vacation is like. If you don't want to choose one region over another, then an airline is an efficient means of transportation in California. If you're visiting major attractions like Disneyworld or Seaworld, the airfare, lodging, and entry are often included as part of a California vacation package.

Flying into massive airports like the LAX Airport can be intimidating for the visitor new to the state, but the money you save by flying in and out of these transportation hubs is significant with the cheap flights to California you can purchase which will more often than not land here. Smaller regional airlines like Aero California Airlines can help you make the most of the time you have for California travel quickly and cheaply.

A trusted and well-known California airline, Aero California Airlines has been operating flights to California for over 53 years, with flights to Mexico and Baja California as well. The service on these cheap flights is so good; you'll use Aero California Airlines instead on the major carriers that travel to South America.

Airfares for flights to California generally are about the same most times of the year. The only exception to this is on holidays, when California airports inevitably fill and prices on airline tickets go through the roof. If you travel during the week, you are more likely to get cheap flights to California. If you want to be flexible, this might cost you, since open return tickets are more expensive. Discount airline tickets can save you a lot of money on your trip to California, but a little time and patience is required to get the best deal.

cheap car rental California

Amtrak is the alternatives between the two extremes of car rentals and California flights to destinations in the Golden State. Every day there are multiple Amtrak trains offering service from San Diego all the way to the Bay area, and many of the cities of the Central Valley along the way. Although it is general slower, taking a train in California on Amtrak is going to run you well under a hundred dollars each way, halving the price from what is would cost to fly.

No matter what method you choose, whether it be a discounted flight from SF to LA, or the most cheap car rental California has to offer you, getting around the state is inexpensive and easy to do, making your California travel a breeze and adding to the ease and enjoyment of your California vacation.

flights to California

Enterprise car rental has the famous pick up service, while other places like Dollar and Budget Car Rental compete to give you the best rate any cheap car rental California has. National car rental and Thrifty car rental are two other well-known companies you can rent a vehicle from. If you really want to save, a company like Rent-A-Wreck rent has older and used cars and is one of the most cheap car rental California has to offer.

Depending on what time of year you travel and where you are going, California highway conditions can vary a great deal. In the California Mountains, you might be in trouble if you're caught on a mountain pass with no tire chains. In other areas like the Mojave Desert, you have to consider the heat and it effects on your car. All in all, the roads are well-marked and in excellent repair, so highway conditions and concerns about this aspect of California travel is mainly in relation to getting around in the mountains and California State Parks.

If you don't have time to make a scenic trip on the coast as you travel north or south on your California vacation, you can take a plane. There are several major airlines that service the big airports and have flights to California. Some of these may not have service between the cities, so you c can save time and money on California flights by booking with one of the smaller commercial airlines such as American Eagle, Southwest Airlines, and United Express. On average, a round trip ticket between Los Angeles and San Francisco is going to run you between $79 to $200 for a round trip ticket.

California car rental

Being one of the largest states in the country, you might wonder how you're going to get around the state on your California vacation. With so many lovely regions to explore, from the idyllic farms of California wine country to the barren flatlands of the Mojave Desert, California travel can seem like a daunting task. Whether you go with a discount car rental or you take a train around the state, there are many ways to get around.

While roads in the state are plentiful and in good repair, it’s wise to plan ahead of time what you want to see. Also, airfare between the major cities is often well priced, so California flights are a great way to get around the state as well.

Unless you really enjoy driving over long distances, its safest and least tiring to rent a car if you're going to be in only one region of the state on your California vacation. Some of the best rates in the whole country on rental cars can be found in California. The major car rental companies in California all vie for the tourists dollars that flow into the state, so you are sure to find excellent rates on a discount car rental.

You can compare rates and ask about weekly car rentals, though it is wisest to book well in advance to get the best discount car rental. California travel is made all the more convenient and fun when you have the luxury of choosing when you travel with a California car rental.

Sacramento California Attractions

You can see what happy reptiles look like in the Reptile House, which houses dozens of animals from rattlesnakes to the Chinese Crocodile lizard, which is a rare species that wasn\'t discovered until 1928. In the Red Panda exhibit, you can see the results of the Species Survival Plan that the Sacramento Zoo participates in. There are three of these majestic animals, and the setting that they are housed in is so close to their natural habitat you will feel as if you\'ve been transported to the foothills of the Himalayas, so this is one of the most captivating Sacramento California Attractions. On display in this exhibit is a large, natural looking aquarium that has the only Chinese Striped-Neck turtle in North America.

Watch a cheetah taking an afternoon nap in its shady enclosure and forget about the days of restless animals pacing back and forth in their tiny pens. There is also a fascinating snow leopard exhibit, which has a young snow leopard that was born at the zoo as part of its conservation programs.

Spread out over 15 acres, there is a lot to see and do in this beautiful setting that just happens to be one of the most scenic, centrally located Sacramento attractions. The Bongo antelope that is on display here is part of an effort to reintroduce these animals to their native habitat in Africa. You will be even more impressed when you see these animals flourish at one of the most scenic Sacramento California Attractions and consider that one day they may be roaming the fields of Africa one day.


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Sacramento Zoo

Right in downtown Sacramento, inside the beautiful William Land Park is the excellent Sacramento Zoo. Open since 1927, the Sacramento Zoo is the largest zoo in the Central Valley of California. You can see for yourself the 32 endangered and threatened species, which are among the 400 animals housed in the Sacramento Zoo. >From the acres of parks bordering the river that runs through the center of town to Old Sacramento, the State Capitol is scenic, and filled with Sacramento California Attractions that allow you enjoy the outdoors.

The Sacramento Zoo helps threatened animals by managing national breeding programs for two of its resident animal species. Almost half a million visitors come to the zoo every year, so this is undoubtedly one of the top Sacramento attractions.

Monterey Bay Discount Ticket

With admission costing $20 for adults, a Monterey Bay Discount Ticket is in high demand at any time of year, so you should ask about their military discount or look into their group sales, both of which offer reduced admission. While it takes coordination to plan for a large group of people to travel together, it makes the experience a lot more fun when you have people you know to share it with, and you can appreciate the value of saving on what will likely be an expensive trip overall with a Monterey Bay Discount Ticket.

The Monterey Aquarium now enjoys a reputation of being the best aquarium in the country, and is rated the third most popular attraction in the US, after Disneyworld in Southern California and Florida\'s SeaWorld. One of the reasons visitors will come here is because of the unparalleled scenery of Central California, which has some of the most Scenic Drives in the West. If you head further south, you will experience some of the incredible views down California Highway 1, which will lead you to the scenic 17-Mile Drive past the lone Cypress tree and the most magnificent vistas you will ever experience in the Golden State. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is unarguably one of the most unforgettable destinations in California.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

From the massive kelp forest to the stingrays hovering inches above the sand to the tide pools where you can touch some of these animals, the Monterey Bay Aquarium draws annual crowds numbering into the millions that fill local Monterey hotels, especially in the summer. This aquarium underwent massive expansive since it opened, and added a million gallon tune tank, where you can see the massive schools feed in a frenzied but coordinated dance of gleaming silver reflections.

Monterey Aquarium - kelp Whether you want to stay in the most charming accommodations around or want to stretch your dollars so that you can afford all the different California attractions on your next trip, there are scores of Monterey hotels for every taste and budget. From the oak tree shaded English Tudor style Old Monterey Inn to the reasonably priced yet excellent Best Western Beach Resort, despite the small town setting, there is no lack of variety in Monterey hotels.

Monterey Aquarium

One of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world is continually on display at the Monterey Aquarium. 26 species of marine mammals live in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, in this scenic part of Northern California.

Monterey Aquarium - Jellyfish Harbor seals, seabirds, and otters are some of the animals that you can see above the water; but when you visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a whole new world opens up to you. Discover 94 types of seabirds, hundreds of different kinds of fish, 4 turtle species, and 450 types of large algae that flourish in the warm waters off the Central Coast.

Right on Cannery Row, which is the center of Monterey's tourist area, is where you can find the Monterey Aquarium. It has been open since 1984 and has showcased the magnificent marine creatures in large glass tanks.

Monterey California hotel

For those who are looking for a budget Monterey California hotel, rest assured that there are a number of them available. Monterey is well-served by a number of Super 8s , Holiday Inns, Ramadas, Roadway Inns, Quality Inns, etc. However, if you are looking for the ultimate Monterey California hotel, the Portola Plaza Hotel, Monterey is your ideal choice.

Imagine this. The Portola Plaza Hotel Monterey is set against the dramatic and picturesque backdrop of the Monterey Bay, Fisherman’s Wharf and scenic downtown Monterey. Take a stroll to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Relax on one of Monterey’s pristine beaches. Explore the Monterey Harbor. The Portola Plaza Hotel Monterey is the place to luxuriate of the beauty of your surroundings.

Monterey California lodging

If you love the water and the aquarium, and are seeking a Monterey California hotel nearby, the Canary Row Inn is a superb choice! Its location in the historic Canary Row district conveniently places you four blocks form the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Fisherman’s Warf. Walk out on to your balcony. Don’t you love the views of the Monterey Bay and the Coastal Trails? Park your car then go out and see Monterey as it should be seen: by foot!

How would you like to take a trip back into California’s history? Would you like to stay in a Monterey California that will transport you back in time? The Casa Munras Hotel was modeled on the original hacienda of Don Esteban Munras, who was the last Spanish diplomat to California. Its location on 4.5 acres of land consists of 166 luxurious guest rooms which are spread throughout 11 majestic buildings. Are you planning a meeting, family reunion or corporate retreat? The Casa Munras Hotel has 4,800 square feet of meeting space!

Portola Plaza Hotel, Monterey

In your quest to find Monterey California lodging, you discover a diverse variety of options. Monterey California is filled with hotels, motels bed and breakfast and resorts that will suit every kind of budget, as while as every vacation preference. Whether you are seeking a chain hotel or some unique Monterey California lodging, you will surely find something that will suit your tastes.

Portola Plaza - Deluxe Room The Blue Lagoon Inn, Monterey, which was remodeled in 2004, is conveniently located three miles from downtown Monterey California, Fisherman’s Wharf and the Monterey Airport. You’ll enjoy taking a two-mile tour of near by Old Monterey. A complimentary breakfast is served each morning.

Portola Plaza Standard Room For those of you who wish to find Monterey California lodging that is close to Carmel by the Sea, take a good look at the Bay Park Hotel. The Bay Park Hotel is nestled in a secluded grove of trees on Camel Hill, which is located half-way between Monterey and Monterey by the Sea. This small and intimate size of this Monterey California hotel accentuates the charm of Monterey. Your dog will love the fact that the Bay Park Hotel is pet friendly.

San Diego beach boardwalk

If historic architecture and animals isn’t your thing, then San Diego also has the Mission beach Boardwalk, a classic beach boardwalk. The boardwalk has roller coasters, an arcade, restaurants, and surf shops in Belmont Park. There are also rentals on bikes, surfboards, blades and anything else that can be rode upon. If you love to be by the beach, there are San Diego Vacation Rentals that line the boardwalk. A great place for July 4th!

It doesn’t stop there, San Diego also has many attractions like the famous Miramar Base where Top Gun the movie was filmed, Silver Strand beach National Park or Mt Soledad. For any kind of trip you desire, hotels in San Diego are easily accessible and will meet the needs of all budgets. Depending on where you’d like to visit, choose one of the hotels in San Diego that are near all of your attractions. Or enjoy your trip by planning one of the San Diego Vacation Packages that allows you to visit the many tours, attractions and sights to see in San Diego, California.

San Diego

Set around a gracefully curving bay, relatively free from smog and Byzantine freeways, sits the beautiful city of San Diego. Although it was the site of the first mission in California, the city only really took off with the arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad in the 1880s, and in terms of trade and significance it has long been in the shadow of Los Angeles. Even in the shadow of Los Angeles, San Diego tourism has things to do for everyone. Plan out your next trip with one of the many San Diego Vacation Packages or create your own vacation.

With all that San Diego has to offer, your next San Diego Vacation will be filled with many memories. For the art lovers, San Diego, features Balboa Park. Get the feeling of an “old Spanish city.” You’ll find various architecture styles of Spanish Colonial Renaissance and Gothic & Moorish. Balboa Park is not only for the art lovers but it is also home to the San Diego Zoo, home to over 4.000 animals. Hillcrest also sits on the edge of Balboa Park with its stylish, friendly, unique neighborhood of theaters, vintage shops, and cafes.

Palm Springs - things to do

The private pools, daily maid and in-room or poolside massages make this a favorite for frazzled celebrities that need to get away. You will be able to enjoy your Palm Springs vacation in relative peace without the distractions of a lot of other hotel guests. Many other Palm Springs hotels dont meet the standard of service here.

If you want to break from the idyllic resorts, there are a number of nearby attractions and things to do. Visit the Living Desert, which is a wildlife preserve that has desert creatures on display in a number of different desert habitats. To experience an irresistible combination of natural beauty or physical comfort, visit Palm Springs on your next trip to Southern California.

Palm Springs - The San Jacinto Mountains

The San Jacinto Mountains serve as the scenic background for this resort, which is only two and a half miles from the Palm Springs International Airport. If you want, you can forego the crowds at the major California attractions and come and unwind at one of the many luxurious Palm Springs resorts.

The Spa Resort Casino is the latest resort to open in Palm Springs. If you feel on top of the world after receiving a great spa treatment, youll probably enjoy some luck in the Spa Resort Casino. This Palm Spring Hotels casino is a popular and exciting place to spend park of your California Vacation.

There are 228 elegant rooms with all the modern amenities you need to stay happy and wrap yourself in comfort. The rooms were recently renovated, so after enjoying a soak in the healing mineral springs, you too will feel renewed. The California weather in the Palm Desert in usually warm and dry, so if youre trying to figure out when to go, just keep in mind that many of the Palm Springs resorts are open year round.

Palm Springs

Fertile farmlands, world-class spas, and excellent golf courses are things that Palm Springs a well-known destination in the California deserts. Palm Springs is an oasis for well-heeled residents of Southern California who come here to unwind at the spas and escape the bustle of California. The Palm Desert begins west of the town of Palm Springs, which is a rich farming area with fertile soil.

You will find the area of the California Deserts a welcome escape as well. The Mojave Desert contains the Death Valley National Monument and Joshua Tree. The barren landscape will erase all the distractions of city life from your mind, and buildings do not interrupt the sunsets. The sky seems to stretch to forever in the Palm Desert.

In this area, you will find the ultimate spa getaways where you can spend your Palm Springs vacation. Merv Griffins Hotel and Givenchy spa is set on 14 acres. You can drop you bags here and prepare for the ultimate pampering experience at one of the finest Palm Springs resorts. There are rose gardens to wander through. The building is in elegant French mansion. There are a few different choices of accommodation, with 11 suites and 103 guest rooms. The luxurious rooms and suites come with bathrooms lined with fine marble, a private terrace, and mountain views.

Napa - winemaking - Napa wine tour

From one day excursions to shorter tours as you can get if you visit the Napa wineries, there are a number of companies in the area that can show you an excellent time in Napa Valley. You can learn about the winemaking process, take a seminar on pairing food and wines, which include gourmet-cooking classes while you learn about wine. Add in a bicycle tour or a hot air balloon ride and you’ve got the ultimate in Napa wine tours.

The Napa Valley Dinner Train is a major attraction that lets guests enjoy an excellent meal while they pass some of the most scenic areas in Napa Valley CA. The train goes between the town of Napa and St Helena, which is 18 miles to the north. There are three different dining cars, so you can enjoy lunch, brunch or dinner while you take in the peaceful countryside.

You should give yourself at least a weekend to take in the lovely countryside, enjoy elegant dinners, and enjoy a Napa wine tour. You will be sampling the finest wines in the country and see the wine making process first hard in a lovely setting when you take a Napa wine tour. Whether you go for full day event with a local tour operator of simply arrive for one of the scheduled tours at an area vineyard, you will savor the wines, the sun, and the relaxing country vistas of Napa Valley CA.

Napa - most popular - grapes - restaurants - Driving a car

This area is most popular in the summer, when it is warm and sunny. Springtime has more comfortable weather, but the area stays warm into the fall, when the grapes are harvested. You can learn about the winemaking process if you take one of the Napa Valley wine tours during the fall harvest season.

If you enjoy peaceful country roads, then a car rental of your dream car and a scenic drive on Highway 29 is one of the best things to do. Going north on Highway 29 takes you through the western part of Napa Valley, past world-class wineries and excellent restaurants. Food is synonymous with wine, so there is no lack of fine dining in Napa. The most scenic part of Highway 29 is from Yountsville in the south to Calistoga, home of California’s own Old Faithful Geyser.

Driving a car and doing your own Napa wine tours allows you to spend as much time as you like in the tasting rooms of Napa wineries. You can purchase bottles of the wines you enjoy to take some of Napa home with you.

Napa - dinner on a train - wines

About an hour north of San Francisco, Napa Valley is the sunny countryside where you will find excellent wineries and scenic vineyards. Between one and five by 30 miles, drives to Napa to sample California wines or a fine dinner on a train are both great ways to experience the popular Napa wine tours.

There are miles of open countryside and hundreds of acres of farmland in Napa Valley, since most of the development in the area has been limited to the cities. The vineyards of Napa Valley CA are the top producers of wine in the country, with Washington State wineries coming in second. Napa wine tours can be anything from a map of Napa wineries and a tank full of gas, or an elegant dinner on the Napa Valley Dinner Train.

Monterey Bay and Big Sur

A few days on the Central Coast is a wholly different experience for visiting Southern California. Nearby attractions like the scenic drives on coastal byways like Highway 1 take you around the beach and over to Carmel. This is where the beaches are even more lovely, and as a result, the 17 Mile Drive around Pebble Beach and past the world famous Lone Cypress are sights you dont warm to miss. Further south, where San Simeon marks the end of the Central Coast and Big Sur, Hearst Castle is an oasis of luxury that has stood for over 60 years.

The beaches on the Central Coast are delightfully empty, the people warm and friendly, and the scenery so stunning that you will never forget the sunsets over Monterey Bay and Big Sur.

to Monterey State Beach - El Estero Lake

A five-minute stroll to Monterey State Beach and the Pacific Ocean, the Monterey Bay Lodge is a comfortable hotel set in a lush green garden setting. El Estero Lake and Park is a lovely place to visit and one of the most centrally located Monterey hotels. All you have to do is cross the street to get to another park. Schedule a spa treatment, and then relax at the heated outdoor pool. The 45 guestrooms are perfect for couples or families to stay on their Monterey vacation.

Fitting with the old world flavor of historic Monterey, there is an old mansion that is one of the most splendidly restored Victorian mansion, making this one of the most charming and historic Monterey hotels. Hand carved furniture, gleaming hardwood floors, and elegant fireplaces grace the rooms and suites of this lavish hotel. There is no lack of amenities or service; amenities include data ports in the dual-line phones, daily maid service, and the most comfortable beds.

Monterey history hotels

Traces of history are visible all over Monterey. The Old Fishermans Wharf area was the center of the bustling fishing industry that thrived on the fresh daily catches of sardine from Monterey Bay. This was also a transportation hub, with freight and passenger ships arriving four times a week. Nowadays, the Wharf is home to some of the finest California restaurants serving fresh seafood, a Wharf Theatre that stages plays, and a number of souvenir and fishing shops.

With so much to see, you can plan a Monterey vacation and spend a relaxing weekend taking in the beauty of this historic seaside town. Enjoy the personalized service at a local bed and breakfast, or stay at one of the Monterey hotels that are within walking distance to the main attractions.

Monterey

On the gentle slopes above the windswept shores of the Central Coast is the historic seaside town of Monterey. The Spaniard Gaspar de Portola was sent north from Mexico, and in 1770 spotted Monterey Bay. Monterey remained the base for Spanish forces in California. Mexico then claimed California as part of its territory, and war broke out with the United States until Commodore Sloat claimed Monterey for the Union in 1846.

You can see attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium on a mile long walking tour of Monterey. This is a take you through a short walk downtown to historic sites like the Custom House, which is the oldest governmental structure in the State of California, and onto other areas like the Wharf and the Marina.

Westin Bonaventure - hotel - spa

A comfortable and conveniently located Los Angeles hotel is the Westin Bonaventure. There are 1,350 rooms, each with the plush Heavenly Bed that is a Westin trademark that you can expect to find when you stay at these hotels. The 35-story Westin Bonaventure is centrally located, so you can access the nearby Los Angeles attractions.

When you factor in the elegant façade and its enormous size covering a whole city block, this recently renovated Los Angeles hotel is spacious and fresh. To accommodate guests, there is an excellent spa onsite, and over 20 bars and restaurants to enjoy. Enjoy the unmatched views from L.A. Prime Steakhouse, which is on the roof level, or the rotating BonaVista Lounge. If you’re looking for something more Hollywood the Four Seasons Beverly Hills Fits the bills. Celebrities frequent this posh Los Angeles hotel that is site of a hot late night scene and a-list gatherings.

From star-studded movie premieres to the famous neighborhoods where celebrities have made their mark, Los Angeles is a place unlike any other. Experience perfect weather, see beautiful people and enjoy the world-famous places in Los Angeles California.

West Hollywood - hot nightlife

With a diverse population, there is a whole side of the city besides the lure of the big Los Angeles attractions. West Hollywood has a hot nightlife and is home to gay and lesbian clubs. You might also catch some actors in the area enjoying VIP treatment at the most exclusive Los Angeles nightclubs.

Anyone who knows about Los Angeles has heard of neighborhoods such as Beverly Hills and Bel Air, which are affluent communities, as are the private areas on Malibu Beach, which are closed to the public. Adding to the unique environment you can enjoy on a Southern California Vacation, these posh, manicured neighborhoods are home to some of the biggest Hollywood stars.

Downtown Los Angeles is the center of it all, and there are a lot of hotels in the area within walking distance to nearby attractions and Southern California Beaches.

Southern California - Disneyland

Southern California is home to mega-attractions and theme parks such as Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood. The largest movie studio in the world is Universal Studios, and you can come close to the excitement of movie making when you visit here on a Los Angeles Vacation. Most of the movie theatres are in the Westwood part of Los Angeles, and this is also where major movie premieres are often held.

At night, the near by Universal City Walk comes to life. The bright lights of this glittering promenade advertise the cool stores, nightclubs, eateries and movie theatres. This is an entertaining place to spend a weekend while you visit on your next Southern California Vacation.

If you include the large nearby ocean side cities such as San Diego, and the miles of California Beaches, one can easily understand why a Los Angeles vacation is a fun and family friendly way to spend a week or two.

Los Angeles

Second in size only to New York, Los Angeles is a large, bustling metropolitan area in Southern California. Everything is on the grand scale in Los Angeles and there are so many things to do. This county and sprawling city is situated in an area that has worldwide for its entertainment industry, high-end shopping areas, and theme parks, making this area the setting of the best highlights of a Southern California vacation.

LA is one of 88 cities in Los Angeles County. There are neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and Hollywood that only add to the reputation of this big city. Hollywood, in Northeast Los Angeles is known for Hollywood Boulevard and the famous bronze stars with the name of famous Hollywood actors on them on the Walk of Fame.

Also on Hollywood Boulevard is the Mann’s Chinese Theatre. This is an impressive Asian-styled theatre that has elaborate decorations on its front. The plaza in front of the Chinese Theatre also bears the marks of Hollywood stars. Many of them have their handprints in the cement, similar to ceremonies of the Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame. Outside, there are actors dressed in interesting costumes from a movie, or as a star like Superman or Marilyn Monroe. They’re happy to take a picture with you, and they appreciate the tips they get from tourists on a Los Angeles Vacation.

Los Angeles - Magic Castle

Los Angeles is a big city that takes at least a weekend to fully explore. Hollywood is located close to downtown and major attractions like Movie Studios, so it’s a good place to look for a place to stay and turn your trip into a Hollywood vacation. If you’re looking for a cheap Hollywood hotel the Magic Castle gives you great value and comfortable accommodations that are shielded from the traffic on Franklin Avenue. This used to be an apartment building; so all the guest rooms at this Hollywood hotel overlook a courtyard with a pool. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to find a comfortable Hollywood hotel.

A recent facelift to the Hollywood Boulevard is the elegant Renaissance Hollywood Hotel, which was renovated in 2002. Inside, the Kodak Theatre is the famous venue where the annual Academy Awards Ceremony is held. You can see the city and the Hollywood sign from the windows of the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel.

You can feel like a star on your Hollywood vacation as you look across to the Hollywood Hills and imagine what it might be like to have the world at your feet.

Mann’s Chinese Theatre - Museum

Los Angeles also has high ticket shopping areas like Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, only adding the mystique and lure of this city. From past to present, you can experience the magic and nostalgia of the big screen in Hollywood CA. The Hollywood Entertainment Museum lets you see famous props like the captains chair from the original Starship Enterprise. Also a major landmark, the Chinese Theatre is an impressive sight that you should forget to include on your Hollywood vacation. Stars of the big screen have made their impression here as well; they flock to this elegantly lit theatre for movie premieres and have their handprints and name on the sidewalk in front of the Chinese Theatre.

Places like Hollywood Boulevard, Mann’s Chinese Theatre, and the famous sign are famous landmarks you can expect to see on Hollywood tours. You don’t have to waste your time reading when there are a number of companies that lead Hollywood tours to the major attractions. You can save a lot of time and get a more enriching experience you will actually learn something at if you take one a the guided Hollywood tours.

Hollywood

Hollywood is a world famous tourist destination in the city of Los Angeles. One of the most famous areas in the Southern California, Hollywood is packed with attractions and world famous landmarks.

Just west of downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, CA is home to historic places like the big Hollywood sign. The first motion picture studios opened in Hollywood in 1911, and just twelve years later, the sign was erected to announce the new Hollywoodland residential area. You can drive to the 50-foot sign that no longer has the word land, but is still one of the most exclusive areas in Los Angeles to live in. It has lost its 4,000 light bulbs, but it is still a famous part of the history of Hollywood.

Below the eccentric homes with great vistas you can also enjoy from the scenic drive through the hills, the Hollywood Boulevard has no lack of attractions for a visitor on a California vacation. 18 blocks of bronze stars with famous movie stars names is embedded in the cement sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard.

Marina - Blue Whales

Monterey Bay whale watching is a popular activity in Monterey Bay California. On a Monterey Bay whale watching vacation, you will be able to marvel at the abundance of whales that inhabit the Bay. Watch the magnificent acrobatics of the Humpback Whales. Giggle helplessly at their silly antics.

The Blue Whales in the Monterey Peninsula just happened to be the largest animal that has ever lived on the planet. This includes the dinosaur era. The Gray Whales who inhabit the Monterey Peninsula have the longest migration of any land or marine mammal on earth. They migrate south to the Monterey Peninsula in the winter and north to Alaska in the summer.

Marina - Monterey Bay

The area that we now call the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and State Seashore was once the exclusive domain of the Ohlone peoples. The Ohlone was a tribe that inhabited much of the coastal region of California, especially the Monterey Peninsula. Seafood was an extremely important part of their diet.

Monterey Bay California sits like a jewel on the Pacific Coast. It is the ultimate marriage of land and sea. The best of both these elements unite to create an exquisite vision of natural beauty. You will find yourself astounded by the magnificent plant and animal life. Sea Otters, Harbor Seals, Bottlenose Dolphins and Gray and Humpback Whales make Monterey Bay California. Do you remember the film Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home? It was filmed at the Monterey Bay, California Aquarium.

Marina - history

Marina, California was once home to Fort Ord. which was an army training base. Today, the 8,000 acres of the former base are now considered public land. However, because of its past as a military training base, the area now has an intricate system of trails that can be enjoyed on foot, bike or horse. Fort Ord is home to one of the largest maritime chaparral areas in all of California.

Marina, California is also famous for its fabulous dunes. Back in the 1950s, these Dunes were a major source for construction sand. Today, you can watch the amazing hang gliders depart for their aerial journeys on the cliffs which rise triumphantly above the Pacific Ocean. If you desire, you can go fishing, surfing, bird watching and whale watching activities to keep you entertained. The City of Marina, California is an ecologically sensitive region. It has the privilege of overlooking one of the largest marine sanctuaries in the Monterey Bay California.

Marina

The stunning City of Marina California is an oceanfront city that stands proudly and majestically on the breathtaking Monterey Bay. It is located at six miles north of Monterey Bay, California on California State Highway 1, 108 miles south of San Francisco, 355 miles north of Los Angeles. The City of Marina California has an excellent location. Because of this, it enjoys a Mediterranean climate with average temperatures of between 50º and 70º.

The City of Marina, California fills 9,000 fruitful acres of land. It gracefully extends for five miles along the Pacific Ocean. You can approach the City from either of two harbors or three airports, all within 10 miles of the city.

The City of Marina, California was established in 1918. In the 1930s and 1950s, the area saw a considerable amount of growth and development. Throughout these years, schools, churches, businesses, a Community Center and residential homes were built. A prosperous community gradually began to evolve from this quiet rural setting. The City of Marina California was incorporated in November of 1975.

Monterey Carmel

However, in your Monterey Carmel dining experience, you will probably enjoy the scrumptious simplicity of California's sauces. These often combine the juices that are released with a cooking wine. Butter and other fats are used less frequently. Perhaps this is why Californians look so great. Speaking of looking great, the food at Carmel California restaurants is always prepared with appearance in mind. Entrees, appetizers and deserts are often works of art in themselves. Creative chefs will often design these items in intricate pattern. As a result, they are both feasts for the eyes and feasts for the taste buds.

So what type of feasts should you expect to find when you set out to explore Monterey Carmel dining? Brick-oven pizzas on hand-tossed crusts, mesclun salads with herbs and toasted goat cheese, delicious breads, fresh from the local bakeries, broiled Black Mission figs with locally made honey, sandwiches prepared with sliced avocado and juicy tomatoes and grilled fresh fish and poultry with prepared with a freshly-made piquant citrus salsa. Are you hungry? Let's Go!

Carmel - Mexican - restaurants

The Mexican influence when combined with the traditional style of California Cuisine has been responsible for the Fresh-Mex or Baja-style of Mexican food. This is not your mother's Mexican food! The emphasis in these restaurants is on the use of fresh ingredients and lighter cooking methods.

The Asian population in California has had a significant influence on California's cuisine. As a result, many of the dishes in the restaurants in Carmel are prepared with soy, bok choy, sesame, ginger, tofu and curry. Much of the food served in the Carmel California restaurants is prepared by fast cooking methods such as grilling, steaming and blanching. Fruits and vegetables are often eaten raw. In many Carmel dining venues, rice and pasta replace the typically American corn and potatoes. While wood fired grills are very popular, barbequing, stewing and roasting are far less common.

Restaurants in Carmel California

When you eat at restaurants in Carmel, you will no doubt have a chance to experience the famous culinary phenomenon known as “California Cuisine.” This form of cuisine was made popular by world famous chefs Alice Waters and Wolfgang Puck. Since California is the leading agricultural state in America, they decided to capitalize on the fruits, vegetables and seafood that is available. As a result, Carmel California restaurants are some of the few places in the world where your dining experiences can be described as both delicious and healthy. California cuisine integrates a number of cooking styles and ingredients. Out of reverence for California's healthy traditions, it creates delicious entrees that are fresh and lean as opposed to fatty and fried.

Many restaurants in Carmel will prepare dishes that use locally-grown ingredients, such as artichoke, avocado, mushrooms, citrus fruits, figs, dates, persimmons, pistachios, prunes, lima beans, kiwi fruit, pomegranates, raisins and almonds. Of course, due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, you will always find superb seafood selections in Carmel California restaurants. Many Restaurants in Carmel serve sourdough bread to accompany your meal. Of course, fine California wine will always be an essential part of your Carmel dining experience.

Carmel - Cypress Inn - beach

The Cypress Inn is one of the most comfortable Carmel Hotels. All year round, you will find guests enjoying the convenient location and home-like atmosphere of a fine Carmel accommodation. Carmel CA is a pedestrian paradise; you will enjoy relaxed strolls through the wide, unpaved streets. There are coffee shops, art galleries, and excellent restaurants. Pet lovers will agree that this is animal friendly lodging in Carmel California, since don’t have to leave their pets at home when they stay as a guest.

The Carmel Inn & Suites is an excellent Carmel accommodation. The affordable Carmel Inn and Suites offer spacious rooms inside a two-story inn. A stay in one of this Carmel Hotels 8 spacious suites that are on the second level of this rewards guests with great views of the Pacific Ocean and the Point Lobos State Reserve to the south.

If you are looking for family friendly lodging in Carmel California the Carmel Inn and Suites will not disappoint. This Carmel Hotels rooms are elegantly appointed, with European furnishings with relaxed countryside charm. Schedule an aromatherapy or a facial if you enjoy pampering, and lie back, savoring the comfort of Carmel.

Aside from the town center, visitors come here to admire the pristine beaches. California beaches range from the cold strong currents and sheer cliff faces of the Northern Coast to the idyllic shores of Southern California beaches. The area around the Golden Gate Bridge sees constant fog covering parts of its dramatic profile. An overnight visit to Carmel will show you what life is like for the warm, friendly people that live in this lovely part of California.

Carmel - Walking - Birdwatchers

Walking along one of the many coast hiking trails, wildlife watching from the empty shores beside Carmel CA is a scenic and relaxing outdoor activity. In the month of January, you might see a California Gray Whale as it migrates. In April or May, you can also watch them as they return with their new calves from the birthing and mating grounds down south.

Birdwatchers should bring their binoculars and be on the look out for one of the 250 animal and birds species that live in the area if the Point Lobos State Reserve, which is easily from Carmel. Just drive two miles south on Highway 1. It is open daily in the summer from 9am to 6:30 pm, and the entrance fee is $8 per vehicle, $4 for seniors and $1 trail maps, quite a reasonable price for prime wild life viewing in a beautiful coastal park.

You might want to spend a weekend relaxing by this tranquil, empty shoreline, and there is no lack of excellent Carmel accommodation. With quaint bed and breakfast, charming coastal inns, the fine choices of lodging in Carmel California rewards the visitor with comfort and beauty.

Carmel

Carmel is set on the blissfully empty, wind swept Central Coast of California, where golden wildflowers blanket the coastal bluffs in the spring, and large boulders dot the sand.

Resting on the rise over the coastal shores, Carmel California is known for having a one of a kind ambience. This quiet town has small museums and charming shops to explore. A good drive from most population centers and hugging the coast is a place of respite for the well-heeled owners of the expensive real estate that covers much of Carmel.

The Carmel area of Big Sur and the Monterey Peninsula is an area filled with Marine life and dramatic coastal views. San Luis Obispo, at the southern end of the Big Sur area is where is somewhere in between the two extremes of the hot, sunny beaches of Southern California and chilly waters and strong currents of the wave battered Northern Coast.

Anaheim - shops restaurants

There are excellent shops and restaurants to explore at the park, so that there is plenty of variety on Disney vacations, like the familiar House of Blues restaurant. There are tons of souvenir shops, museums, and interesting places to visit like the ESPN Zone and Raplh Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen.

With cotton candy, popcorn, and fun galore, this is a city made just for children. Adults will have a blast as well seeing the entertaining shows, and taking a spin on the thrilling amusement rides and visiting the arcades. No matter what your age, you are sure to have a blast when you reserve one of the Disney World vacation packages to Anaheim California.

If you spend your whole vacation in an Anaheim hotel you will be missing out. After all, you’re only minutes from Southern California beaches and the scenic California deserts. Anaheim is a great central spot that is a great home base to enjoy your California vacation from.

Anaheim - Disney resort

Every year, millions of visitors come to Anaheim. With so many guests coming to the Disney resort, Disney World Vacation Packages allow one to combine the cost of flight, hotel accommodations, and admission to the park. From the food to the rental car, you can end up spending more than you have planned rather quickly, so Disney World vacation packages can help families save a lot of money and time by paying for most of the major expenses ahead of time, so that they know beforehand how much they’re spent, which can help with budgeting their Disney vacations and save them the trouble of having to find an Anaheim hotel.

The original theme park is filled with classic fun, with familiar favorites like Main Street USA, Adventureland, Tommorowland, and Fantasyland, each of which delights young and old alike. Downtown Disney and Mickey’s Toon Town are two of the newest attractions that continue the old fashioned cartoon theme. If you’re in Anaheim, be sure to visit the nearby attractions in Southern California like Hollywood and the movie studios.

Anaheim - Disneyland

Thirty miles east of Los Angeles is the well-known city of Anaheim California. The tenth largest city in California, and home to the Disneyland Resort and Disney’s California Adventure, Anaheim is a well-known city. Part of this city’s popularity is due to the fact that in the 1950’s,Walt Disney chose to build a theme park on what used to be acres of orange groves.

Disneyland California Adventure opened in 2001, and has since drawn ever-increasing crowds to Anaheim California. There are 27 restaurants, 18 stores, and great adventures like a flight simulator called Soarin over California. There is also a unique ferris wheel, and water rides.

When Disney’s California Adventure theme park opened, visitors flocked to Anaheim to try the rides and games that are themed towards California attractions and cities, like California Screamin, Grizzly River Run, and Mulholland Madness. Often visitors will plan their Disney vacations to include a visit to this 55-acre park, which is located right next to Disneyland.

California attractions

This part of the State of California has the most attractions and diverse populations, so there is no lack of excitement when you choose to take a California tour. The large theme parks in the area are home to some of the top California resorts, which are hotels and amusements wrapped into one. To the east of LA, Palm Springs is home to spas that are built on natural hot springs. You can find some of the most exclusive California resorts in the Palm Desert area if you drive east from Los Angeles.

Northern California has no lacks of sights to see, either. The city of San Francisco alone deserves at least a weekend of you California vacation to fully enjoy its beauty. Attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, the Cable Car, Alcatraz Island, and Pier 39, set in some of the most vibrant, cultural neighborhoods, make the city of San Francisco an essential stop on your California tour. From the Bay area you can easily reach Napa Valley or the Central Coast, which has the scenic 17 Mile Drive and the picturesque Lone Cypress.

From the state parks, to the beaches, to the ski resorts, a California vacation can include any sort of fun you could possibly want. No matter what type of activity you enjoy, you can experience it in California.

California Southern

If you want to visit Southern California, there are a few places you should visit. Los Angeles is the second largest city in the country besides the Big Apple, so there is no lack of things to do and see in this area, and there are plenty of California resorts centered around theme parks so you can enjoy a hassle free experience, since everything is easy to find. Disneyland and Seaworld are family friendly places to enjoy a California vacation. Neighborhoods in LA are so outstanding that many have their own reputation that overshadows that fact that they are within a larger city. Hollywood, for example, has the Walk of Fame, and is home to the big movie studios.

Beverly Hills is an exclusive community outside of Los Angeles, but when you're down here, there is no end to the cities, so you are never really sure where one city starts and the other one ends. If you're in Beverly Hills, one of the main areas here for seeing and being seen is Rodeo Drive. One of the most high priced areas in the entire world to shop, Rodeo Drive is a three block stretch of high-end shops and boutiques.

California

If you're considering or planning to the State of California, you will very likely be trying to figure out all the different things you want to do. From the amusement parks and sunny beaches of Southern California to the rugged cliffs and deserted beaches on the Washington Coast and everything in between, there is no end to all the things you can experience on a California tour.

Since the early days of the California Gold Rush, people have been coming to the Golden State from all parts of the country. Nowadays, California is known for being the closest thing to a perfect place, whether it be for the sunny vineyards of Napa, the charming small-towns on the Central Coast, or Southern California's miles of flawless, endless beaches.

The State of California is the most populated in the entire country, due to its immense size and its major metropolitan areas of Los Angeles and San Francisco. This is also the third largest state in terms of size, so you could spend weeks exploring the attractions on a California tour.