Top 56 Adventures in California: Adventurous Things To Do you Have to Try at Least Once

Andrew Molera State Park

The best adventures in California range from the Half-Dome Hike in Yosemite to a hot air balloon ride over Temecula, to a Malibu wine hike and so much more.

Table of Contents

California has plenty of adventures to experience, no matter if you’re in northern California or Southern California or somewhere in the middle.

From adrenaline junky to the mild adventure seeker, California has something for everyone.

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And one of the greatest things about California is that the weather is perfect in most parts of the state throughout the year, making it an all-year destination. With everything there is to do, California is the best destination for adventure tourism.

Here is a list of some of the best adventures in California that are categorised according to activity.

There really is something for everyone, including family activities so no one is left out. And if you aren’t looking for an active adventure, don’t fret, we’ve got just what you’re looking for on this list. 

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Hiking Adventures in California 

1.  guided half dome hike.

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Hiking to the Half Dome’s summit is the perfect way to spend a day in California. This is a coveted adventure that many hikers look forward to when visiting California. This challenging 17-mile hike offers you wonderful views of the Yosemite Valley from the summit. On the way, your guide will trace the legendary rock path and learn about natural and geological history of the Sierra Mountains. This is certainly the perfect challenging day adventure that you won’t get anywhere else. 

2. Griffith Park Experience: Hollywood Hills Hike

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Looking for an urban adventure? Hiking to Griffith Park is the perfect activity for you. This adventure in California will take you up to the highest peaks in Griffith Park. With a total of 3.5 miles (5.6km), this is a moderate hike that ends in great views at the top. Learn more about Hollywood’s history. You will also visit the world-famous Griffith Observatory.

3. Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point & Giant Sequoias Hike

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This is the perfect family-friendly adventure in California. This private sightseeing hike takes you through Yosemite , from Giant Sequoias to Glacier Point in Bridalveil Falls, there is more than enough to see. Each hike is adjusted to fit your fitness level effectively making it great for the whole family. If you are looking for less strenuous adventure in California then this is the perfect day trip. 

4.  Yosemite National Park 

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If you are looking for more exciting hikes that can be done on your own, there are plenty in Yosemite. Choose between multi-day hiking adventures or one-day hikes in this great park. With so many options, this is one park that no matter how many times you visit there will always be something new for you to discover. Check out the best hikes in Yosemite .

5. Hiking in Death Valley California

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Death Valley is one of the most visited National Parks in California. It has also the highest recorded temperature in the world. That’s pretty hot but expected as this is the driest, hottest and lowest point in all of North America. It is also one of the largest National Parks in the United States. 

Death Valley is extremely popular for hiking, especially since the landscape is unique and pretty amazing. You will certainly feel like you’re on mars here. Visiting Death Valley can be done as a day trip or longer and is the perfect California adventure if you love the outdoors. 

6. San Francisco Urban Hike: Castro and Twin Peaks

Taking an urban hike in San Francisco is a great way to experience the city in a different way.

If you’re in San Francisco make sure to try out an urban hike and find some of the hidden gems of the city. The hike will take you up Tank Hill and Kite Hill where you will find perfect city views and hidden forests. While you trek up the hill’s you won’t even know that you’re in the middle of one of the best cities in California. This 5-mile hike is truly the perfect city adventure in California. 

7. Devil’s Slide Trail 

This is probably the most unique trail that you can walk in California. Once a busy highway, this portion of the Pacific Coast Highway was closed because it was deemed too dangerous for motor vehicles. Now it’s a great attraction for travellers and locals that want the exhilaration of walking on a highway with some of the most amazing views. The trail is 1.3 miles long and has a parking lot on each end making it convenient to get to. It may seem weird, but this is a pretty amazing adventure in California. 

8. The Lost Coast Trail King Range

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If you are looking for more than just a day hike then consider a backpacking adventure on the Lost Coast Trail. This adventure in California is perfect for the avid hiker. The trail offers great views, wonderful wildlife and flora and some of the best of California’s untouched coast.

This is a 3-day backpacking adventure that can get pretty difficult so you have to be an experienced and fit hiker if you would like to comfortably complete this 25-mile hike. This hike is excellent since it can be done in Spring, Summer or Fall and is a relatively quiet trail. The trail is also dog friendly, just keep in mind that there are several river crossings. 

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9. Point Reyes National Seashore

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The Point Reyes National Seashore offers you some great day hikes and backpacking adventures. Whether you’re visiting with the family or travelling solo, there is something for every type of hiker here.

There are numerous hiking trails that offer you hiking on the coastline and in the forests, and above all stunning views. Make sure to also stop to admire the historic lighthouse and the pristine beaches. Check the weather to make sure you are dressed appropriately however as it can get pretty windy on the trails. The Point Reyes National Seashore is best visited in winter, spring and fall. 

10. Hiking in Andrew Molera State Park

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Andrew Molera State Park is located on the northern stretch of Big Sur. It is the largest state park in the area and offers you 20 miles of hiking trails that vary from scenic inland areas to trails that will take you past some magnificent beaches.

If you are looking for great wildlife sightings while you hike, you won’t have to look too far. On the downside, the park does get pretty crowded over weekends and holidays, but even with the crowds, it’s worth a visit. If you feel like having a multi-adventure day in this perfect part of California, then consider bringing your surfboard along. It’s a great pick all year round. 

11.  The John Muir Trail (JMT)

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For the ultimate hiking adventure in California, the JMT is exactly what you’re looking for. The total length of the trail is a whopping 211 miles through national parklands and designated wilderness. The JMT intersects with the Pacific Crest Trail in quite a few places and you are guaranteed to see some awe-inspiring scenery while hiking.

There are more than enough peaks, passes and lakes to leave you one hundred percent satisfied with nature by the end of this trail. This trail is the perfect summer activity but make sure to prepare early as permits are not always easy to get. 

Hot Air Balloon Adventures 

12.  sunrise temecula balloon flight.

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Enjoy the perfect sunrise from this  hot air balloon . You will take off from the Vindemia Winery and soar across the beautiful vineyard. Once you have enjoyed this scenic adventure in California, you can enjoy a perfect breakfast in the private rose garden. Enjoy the flight and wine tasting on this truly epic journey. 

13.  Wine Country Hot-Air-Balloon Ride

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The  Napa Valley  is famous for its beautiful wineries. There is nothing more exciting than taking a morning hot air balloon ride that takes in the unique beauty of Napa and Sonoma. You will certainly have the perfect views from the comfort of the hot air balloon basket. While you fly high above the valley you will have an excellent commentary of everything below you. 

Whale Watching in California

14.  dana point whale watching eco-safari.

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One of the best adventure activities on the Californian coast is whale and dolphin watching.  Dana Point  is a terrific place to do this and this eco-safari will have you spotting all kinds of sea mammals. Take a trip on a catamaran with a naturalist that will give you all the commentary you need to have a great immersive experience. There is also an underwater viewing pod where you will have the perfect opportunity to see ocean life. While onboard you are likely to see whales, dolphins and sometimes even sharks.

15.  Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

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This adventure in California will have you scouring the pacific ocean in Monterey for some of the most magnificent  ocean life  that you can imagine. Take a boat trip with a naturalist/marine biologist who will give you the perfect commentary that will leave you inspired. Monterey is well known for its whale spotting all year round.

16.  Whale & Dolphin Watching in Newport Beach

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This great  whale watching tour  is perfect for small groups. Take an exciting tour of Newport Beach where you will see several species of dolphins and whales. This adventure in California will have you exploring the ocean in the most comfortable way and also give you a new and exciting view of some of the most amazing sea mammals in the area.

Up in the Air Adventures in California 

17.  san francisco golden gate seaplane tour.

See San Francisco from a Seaplane to have an epic adventure in California

If you love heights and want to have the perfect view of San Francisco then you have to try this epic adventure in California. Take a  scenic flight  in a 6-seater seaplane. The flight will take you over the bay area, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Muir Woods and Angel Island. Seaplanes are perfect to take in the perfect panoramic views so you won’t miss anything. It is a unique way to experience one of the best areas in California.

18.  Top Gun and Air Combat Experience in San Diego

Have a great and exhilarating experience in San Diego with this Top Gun flight

Want movie-worthy adventure in California? Why not try out a  Top Gun style  sky-high adventure. Learn the basics of flying with incredible speed and agility. All of this while enjoying the perfect views from high above the exquisite terrain around San Diego. 

If this isn’t adventurous enough for you, try the low-level flight package which is an epic adrenaline rush.  All this with a trained fighter pilot at your side. If you expect pure adrenaline you won’t be disappointed by adventure in California.

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19.  San Francisco Indoor Skydiving  

Indoor skydiving is a great adventure to try in California

Thinking of skydiving but not sure if you’re ready to “make the jump”? This is the perfect adventure for you then. Try out  indoor sky diving  that will have you free-falling for 60 seconds at a time. You will have the exhilarating feeling of soaring through the air, all without actually having to make the jump. 

iFLY San Francisco offers you a great opportunity with its 800-horsepower vertical wind tunnel. With wind speeds reaching between 130 and 175 mph, you are sure to experience an amazing adrenaline rush which will get you ready for the real jump. This is a great adventure in California for the daring. 

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20.  Open Cockpit Biplane Flight in San Diego

Try this amazing adventure in California in an open cockpit vintage biplane

If you’ve got an appreciation for the vintage, this is a great adventure to try. Take the perfect  aerial tour  in a vintage 1920’s biplane. This open-cockpit plane is the perfect way to take in wonderful views of San Diego. There is a choice of flight plans so you can tailor your experience. This is the perfect adventure activity for those that are looking for great views and a new experience. 

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21. Hang Gliding in Sylmar 

Hang Gliding is one of the most epic adventures in California

California is the heart of adventure for sure, no matter what you’re looking for. In fact, Sylmar in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles is rated as one of the best hang gliding spots in the world. Yip, you read that right. You will almost definitely have the chance to hang glide here as the winds are known to be pretty reliable all through the year.

The Flight Park is located at the top of the Kagel Mountain and you will find loads of hang gliders up here. If you aren’t up for the adventure yourself its still a pretty cool place to chill out and watch as the gliders launch. If you’re really daring why not sign up for lessons and learn to do it yourself. 

22. Paragliding in La Jolla

Paragliding is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can try

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I consider paragliding to be the tamer version of hang gliding and if you are looking for something a little less bold, then why not try it. This is a popular adventure in California, and there are loads of different spots to try in Northern and Southern California.

A big favourite though is La Jolla, mainly because the views are simply incredible, and who doesn’t want to glide above the beautiful Pacific ocean? You’ll find the launch site just south of the Torrey Pines Golf Course. If you’re up there for the views or just waiting for the wind to pick up you can stop and have a snack at the food truck. It’s the perfect spot to spend a day. 

Wine & Dine Me Adventure Tours 

23.  malibu wine hike.

Hiking in a Malibu winery is a great adventure in California that everyone can enjoy

Malibu is an amazing spot for adventure. Do something different and enjoy a  scenic day hike  while taking full advantage of great wine tasting. This great day tour is the perfect way to experience something new and adventurous. Meet the inhabitants of this ranch and winery as well as take in some great views while hiking. Enjoy the perfect picnic with wine tastings. 

24.  Sonoma County Wine Segway Tour

Taking a winery segway tour is a great adventure in California that can be enjoyed by anyone

If you are looking for something that offers you a more mellow adventure in California, why not try a half-day  Segway tour  of the Sonoma wineries. Taste some great wines and stop for the perfect picnic lunch. This is a small-group experience with a great guide so you’re sure to have the perfect day. If you are looking for an adventure that is less strenuous this is the perfect activity to try.

Water Adventures California

25.  surf lessons.

Learning to surf is a great adventure to try when in California

Ever want to surf? Why not learn to do it in one of the best places on earth. Pismo Beach is the perfect place to get your feet wet. This is the perfect adventure in California and a terrific opportunity not to be missed. Learn  to surf  in one of the most epic areas in California. Once you get the hang of it, rent your own equipment and enjoy one of the most liberating adventures you can imagine. 

26. White water rafting on the Trinity River

you'll love the adventure of white water rafting the Trinity River in California

As far as water adventures go, white water rafting is probably one of the most exciting activities you can get. California offers you excellent choices when it comes to white water rafting, one of them being the Trinity river. You will find everything from class 2 to class 5 rapids to explore here.

On the Lower Trinity, you’ll find peaceful waters and great wildlife. If you are looking for a rush that is still perfect for families and first-time rafters then Pigeon Point Run is a great place to start. Finally, if you have experience on roiling waters and are looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure then make your way down to the Trinity Burnt Ranch Gorge.

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27.  San Diego Bay Jet Boat Ride

If you love speed and the ocean then this great speed boat adventure in California is perfect for you

This is more than just a relaxing cruise. This is a high speed, adrenaline-packed  speedboat experience  and is just the adventure you need. Enjoy the sights of San Diego Bay in a jet boat that rushes through the water in the perfect adrenaline pumping tour. And your captain has a few tricks up his sleeve which will most definitely have your blood pumping. You don’t want to miss this adventure in California. 

28.  Santa Barbara Harbor Kayak Tour

Experience Santa Barbara in a new way with this kayak tour

Kayaking  is a great way to experience Santa Barbara Harbor. Besides being a great adventure activity it is eco-friendly and there is a great chance of spotting dolphins and other ocean mammals. This is a great family adventure in California. Choose to paddle on your own or as a pair and paddle out into one of the best parts of Santa Barbara. 

29. Windsurfing in Newport Beach 

California is a great place to try out windsurfing. It is a great adventure in California.

If you are looking for some of the best surf spots in California, then southern California is an excellent choice. Newport Beach is one of the best windsurfing spots and definitely where you want to be for an epic adventure. Windsurfing is pretty exhilarating and the perfect adventure in California if you love the ocean and adrenaline. Newport Beach offers you pretty calm waters so you can easily stay afloat and enjoy little challenges like monitoring your speed. 

30.  La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour

Kayaking in the La Jolla caves is a great adventure in California that the whole family can enjoy.

If you love being out on the water and are looking for something new and exciting to do then this is the perfect adventure in California. The  La Jolla sea caves  and the ecological reserve is the perfect place to see dolphins, sea lions and even orcas if you are lucky. If you are looking for great adventure tourism in California, this is one activity you just shouldn’t miss. This is a great family activity too as it is great for kids 6 years and older. 

31.  South Lake Tahoe Parasailing

Lake Tahoe, California is a great place to try out parasailing

Parasailing  is the adventure of a lifetime! Lake Tahoe is well-known for its adventure sport and its no wonder with all its many great activities like this one. Get your adrenaline going while flying high above a speed boat and jetting across the lake. There is nothing quite like it. You can even choose how high you would like to go if you aren’t keen on being too far off the ground… I mean water. While you’re up there take in some of the most breathtaking views of the area, you won’t regret it. 

32. Kiteboarding in San Francisco

Kitesurfing is a great adventure to try in California

As you would expect, California has some incredible spots for kiteboarding. No matter your skill level, the San Francisco Bay area is one of the ultimate favourite spots for kiteboarders. It’s the perfect place to get your adventure on. 

The Bay area is well-known for its reliable winds and flawless flat water locations and is a terrific place to get your dose of adventure in California. Make a turn by Ocean Beach or 3rd Avenue near San Mateo to get in the best kiteboarding experiences. 

33. Diving in Catalina Island

Diving is the perfect activity to try out in California

With so much pristine coastline, California is the perfect place to enjoy epic diving. In particular, you should check out the Avalon Underwater Dive Park, the US’s first nonprofit park under the sea. Diving here is a great way to spend your time in California and it offers many wonderful experiences. 

You will see some great marine life here including the famous flying fish, brilliant orange Garibaldi and there are even some great shipwrecks to explore. The waters here are also crystal clear making it an excellent scuba diving site. 

Looking for an urban adventure?  Hiking to Griffith Park  is the perfect activity for you. This adventure in California will take you up to the highest peaks in Griffith Park. With a total of 3.5 miles (5.6km), this is a moderate hike that ends in great views at the top. Learn more about Hollywood’s history. You will also visit the world-famous Griffith Observatory.

Driving Adventures in California

34.  atv and rzr off-road adventure tour.

ATV off-road adventure in California

The perfect adrenaline-filled adventure is waiting for you in the Ocotillo desert. Choose whether you want to experience the desert terrain in an ATV, Razor or on a dirt bike. You will find your 4-hour  driving adventure  in California nothing short of exhilarating. Race up to see the Painted Gorge, drive through a real bombing range and make a stop at The Sandbar.

35.  GoCar San Francisco Tour

Try out the GoCar, the talking car that guides you through San Francisco

The  GoCar  is a pretty cool invention, in fact, Time Magazine has called it “one of the coolest inventions”. This tiny talking car is perfect for two people to explore one of the best cities in California. This is certainly a unique and wonderful adventure in California that will have you exploring great places like Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge and Ocean Beach. All this while being guided by your very own talking GoCar. 

36. Northern California Road Trip A 3 Day Vacation not to be Missed

Take the perfect road trip adventure in Northern California

California is the perfect state for road trips. There is a great selection of state parks to visit and you wouldn’t believe how unique and different the terrain can be. If you are looking for a great road trip that incorporates the beach and hiking in majestic forests then you should definitely try a northern California road trip. 

The itinerary will take you through the Redwood National and State Parks and past the perfect California Coast. This great 3-day road trip starts in the Avenue of Giants where you will discover the wonders of tall and looming redwoods that are hundreds of years old. You will also have plenty of opportunities to explore the parks on foot too. From here you can continue through quaint towns out to the California coast where you will explore the beauty of Humboldt and Arcata Bays as well as Trinidad Head and Patrick’s Point State Park. 

End your journey with yet more redwoods and explore some wonderfully secluded hikes. You can also spend the day traversing the Lady Bird Johnson Trail, Fern Canyon, and the Grove of Titans. 

37.  San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour from Palm Desert

Take a Jeep up to the San Andreas Fault for an epic adventure in California

San Andreas is one of the most famous places in California. So famous that they even made a movie about it. If you love driving adventures then taking a  Jeep tour  to the San Andreas fault from Palm Desert. You will get to see a real desert oasis while learning all about the Native American Cahuilla tribe. This is an exciting small group tour that shouldn’t be missed if you are looking for a fantastic driving adventure in California. 

38.  Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach

Driving a Dune Buggy on the beach is an epic adventure in California

Driving through the desert in a  dune buggy ? It doesn’t get more fun if you ask me. This is a great adventure in California and something you shouldn’t miss out on. It is certainly a great opportunity to speed across the sands near Pismo Beach, enjoying the freedom and adrenaline rush.

39. Titus Canyon Off-Road Trip

Titus Canyon is a thrilling off-road drive that makes for the perfect adventure in California

If you want to try a unique do-it-yourself off-road trip, then a drive down the Titus Canyon Road is a great choice. This driving adventure in California is 26 miles of dirt road that offers you not only great scenery but the opportunity to drive through an old ghost town. You will be driving on a narrow canyon that is not for the novice driver. If you really want to add to the adventure, make this trip on a motorbike. This is a thrilling road activity that is not for the faint of heart. 

Biking Adventures

40.  santa barbara electric bike tour.

Take a tour of Santa Barbara on an electric bike.

Cycling with an  electric bike  is a great way to explore Santa Barbara. Enjoy a small group tour where your guide will show you all the coolest places including State Street and the Santa Barbara Mission. You will learn the history of this great city and also enjoy perfect photo opportunities. With an electric bike, you can choose to paddle on your own, use the motor which can go up to 20  miles per hour or use a combination of both. 

41. Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bike Adventure

Try a downhill cycling adventure in a desert in California

If you want to do something different compared to your usual desert adventures, then this  guided bike ride  along the San Andreas Fault is exactly what you’re looking for. This is a great way to experience where the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Deserts meet. And above all, the best part is that you don’t have to be an avid cyclist to do this one.

This is a great activity for the whole family as you will be going at a leisurely pace. It is the perfect way to check out the great desert views. You will also make a stop at a date farm and have a date shake to replenish your energy at the end. This is a great adventure to try in California. 

42.  The Ultimate Los Angeles Bike Tour

Tour Los Angeles on bike

Take a different kind of tour of  Los Angeles  and get to see sights that you wouldn’t see any other way. This adventure in California is a great way to get in a few miles cycling, 32 miles to be exact, and see some of the most fascinating neighbourhoods in LA. You will pass through West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Bel-Air, and Beverley Hills and also make a stop at Venice Beach. 

43. Cycling Big Sur

Cycling Big Sur is one of the most exciting adventure in California

Recommended Reading:  Bike Touring Gear List: The Essentials You Need to Bring

If you are looking for an epic bike packing adventure in California, then cycling Big Sur is a great choice. It is a pretty demanding area to cycle with its climbing hills and sharp curves. But one thing is certain, you won’t find better views. This is not for beginners however as you will be heading up some tremendous climbs.

But if you are the experienced cyclist looking for an epic adventure in California, this is one not to be missed. Cycle Highway 1 from Monterey up to San Luis Obispo in 3-4 days, for one of the best possible experiences. There is more than enough to explore on your tour of Big Sur. 

44. Glendora Road/Mt. Baldy

Glendora Road is a famous road to cycle because of its many twists and turns. This is a great place for an adventure in California

If you are an avid cyclist then you may have heard of one of California’s biggest cycling events, the Tour of California. This is where the elites of the sport challenge themselves. If you want the ultimate cycling adventure in California, you certainly need to try this route.

This 44-mile route will give you the opportunity to face famous climbs on the Glendora Mountain Road to Mount Baldy ski area. While you weave your way up this perfect road, you will have some of the most amazing views. 

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Other California Adventures

And if you’re still looking for more adventure activities in California, here are some other really great and unique things to try while you’re in the sunshine state.

45.  Sonoma Horseback-Riding Tour

Horseback riding is a great way to discover Sonoma County

Sonoma County is beautiful and one of the best ways to explore it is on horseback. Take a great guided tour of the vineyards of Dry Creek Valley and Lake Sonoma on this tour. The tour has limited space which also adds to the unique experience. This is a laid back adventure in California that the whole family can enjoy. 

 46.  Fantastic Catalina Race

Try out and

If you are looking for something completely different to try, then this is the perfect “ Amazing Race ” experience. Enjoy a fully interactive experience while sightseeing in Avalon. This is a perfect family activity that is packed with fun and adventure. Get your game face on for an epic adventure. You won’t find any adventure in California quite like it. 

47.Climbing Adventure in Devils Punch Bowl 

Climb the Devils Punch Bowl

Climbing a fantastic punch bowl-shaped rock formation? Who would say no to that adventure experience? The Devil’s Punch Bowl is located on the northern slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains and is a climbers paradise. There is an exciting climb for every level of climber and a large range of sport routes, trad climbs and boulder problems. This is the perfect place to practice climbing as the rock walls are not entirely vertical but tilted at a 45 to 75-degree angle. You can easily spend the day here, otherewise stay in one of the campgrounds to make this a multi-day adventure. 

48. Best Unique National Park to Visit in California

Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park for an epic adventure in California

The Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the most unique parks in California. Lassen Peak erupted in 1915, spewing lava, mud, ash and melted snow down the mountainside. Since 1921 Lassen Peak has been dormant, however, it is still considered an active volcano. 

The eruption created a landscape that is truly one of a kind in California. The park is best visited in summer and fall especially for hiking and exploring. In winter there are heavy snows but the adventurous hiker can take the opportunity to snowshoe and ski at the northern and southern gates of the park. If you are enjoying a one-day visit you can drive the main park road and enjoy the volcanic features. There are also some pretty exciting hiking and climbing experiences waiting for you. 

49. Soak in the Sierras: Travertine Hot Springs

Soak in the perfect hot spring after a long day of adventure in California

California is full of exciting and wonderful places that are well worth visiting. One of the best places to visit is the Travertine Hot Springs in Eastern Sierra. There is nothing better than soaking in a hot spring after a long day of hiking. 

Located just off Highway 395 you can drive straight into the falls. There is a great selection of pools here, so even if it gets busy as it would on a weekend, don’t fret. A short walk down and you are sure to find the perfect pool. Make sure to check the temperature before you step in though, some of them are pretty hot.

One of the best thins about the Travertine Hot Springs is that the land around them is Forest Service Land which means that you can legally camp for free here. Just keep in mind that this is primitive camping so there are no facilities. But that just adds to the adventure if you ask me. 

50.  Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour

Zip Lining in California is the perfect adventure.

Soar 600 feet above sea level on this multiple speed zipline adventure in California. This fantastic  Catalina Island zipline  is the perfect way to get in some thrills while still enjoying the perfect scenery. If you want the best experience, choose the highest speed level for the zipline which reaches 40 miles per hour. This is a great way to enjoy your adventure in California. 

51. Bridge to Nowhere Bungee Jump

Bungee jumping is a great adventure in California

There are some really great places to bungee jump in California, but one of the firm favourites is the Bridge to Nowhere. The bridge gets its name from the fact that it doesn’t really connect two roads as you may think. The bridge leads you to a dead-end in the mountains on the other side. In this case, it definitely has a fitting name. 

This 100-foot fall is located above the San Gabriel River and is one of the most exhilarating jumps you can imagine. You’ll be surrounded on all sides by the Sheep Mountain Wilderness. Therefore you will have the perfect views of the stunning surroundings.

52. Skiing and Snowboarding on Big Bear Mountain and Snow Summit 

Big Bear Mountain is a great place for your next winter adventure in California

The twin resorts of Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are located just two hours away from Los Angeles. These resorts offer you some of the best skiing and snowboarding in California. You can enjoy 1000 acres of perfect terrain to enjoy. Both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offer some great beginner and intermediate terrain and is the perfect family skiing destination in southern California. 

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Adventurous Places to Stay in California

To top off our list of epic adventures in California, here are some of the most unique places to stay. Whether you are looking for luxury, adventure or comfort, these great places to stay in California will give you what you need. 

 53.  Woodland Drive Home  in Tahoma

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If you are looking for something different to do while enjoying your California adventure why not stay in a great cabin.  The  Woodland Drive Home  in Tahoma is perfect with its elevation that offers you amazing views. The cabin has everything you would need and makes for the perfect base to spend some time in one of the best parts of California. 

54. 1002 E Oceanfront  in Newport Beach

Adventure in california,Adventures in california,things to do in california

Right on the beachfront, this great beach house is the perfect place to start your California adventure. With its perfect location in  Newport Beach , you won’t have to travel far to get in some great activities in the surrounding areas. With great space and a wonderful neighbourhood, it’s perfect.

55.  3-Day Yosemite Camping Adventure

Camping in Yosemite is the perfect way to experience adventure in California

Take a  3-day camping  trip in Yosemite National Park and experience the best of this wonderful place. You will spend two nights in a tent and spend your days hiking to wonderful sights such as Yosemite Falls and up to the Half Dome summit. There are guided options or you can choose to explore the park on your own. 

All the necessary camping equipment and food are provided. This really makes it a great stress-free adventure in California. Make sure to bring your gear as there are some great opportunities to swim, bike and raft on your 3 days of exploration. 

56. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Camping in Prairie Creek is one of the best adventures you can have in California

This state park was the backdrop for the movie Jurassic Park, and it’s no wonder considering that it is made up of wondrous old-growth forests. Spending time here can make you forget that you’re in the real world with its wild and beautiful terrain. In short, it’s nothing short of magical.

The park is perfectly placed on the coast just an hour from Eureka and is home to a large percentage of Redwoods as well as Roosevelt Elk. This is an all-season park which is perfect for camping whether you are planning to visit with the family, with a friend or on your own. Keep in mind that this is a wet coastal environment so make sure to bring a good waterproof jacket for this adventure in California.

There is so much adventure to be discovered in California that no matter the season you will never be bored.

Check out videos on hundreds of California adventures

California Through My Lens

Ultimate California Bucket List: 100 Adventures You Need to Have in the State

As a state, California really does have a little bit of everything. From the scenic coastal drives and the arid deserts to towering Eastern Sierras and the large metropolitan cities, you could spend your whole life exploring this state and still not see all that it has to offer. I have spent the last five years trying to document as much of it as I can on my site, so I figured the five year anniversary would be a good time to create a bucket list of the 100 best spots I have seen over my time exploring. Check them out below and let me know what you would add to this list in the comments.

1. Marvel at Burney Falls

burney falls

One of my personal favorite spots, Burney Falls in Northern California is probably the best waterfall in the entire state. Sure there are bigger ones in Yosemite, but for me, the cascading power of this waterfall makes it something I keep coming back to again and again.

  • Read about it here

2. Hike to Hollywood Sign

hollywood sign-1

There are few things more iconic in California then the famous Hollywood Sign. Hiking to it is a rite of passage for many a Southern California hiker, and while you can’t get that close to it, you can still look down on this icon with the city of Los Angeles behind it, making it a must do in the state.

3. Drive the Big Sur Coastline

Big Sur Coast 2-1

The Big Sur coastline has been inspiring people for centuries with its rugged mountains that lead right down to picturesque beaches. Make sure you have a few days to explore though as there is so much to see.

4. Get Your Feet Wet at Fern Canyon

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One of California’s best and easiest hikes, Fern Canyon in Northern California was a spot used in the filming of Jurassic Park, The Lost World. If that doesn’t tell you how beautiful it is then just remember this movie was supposed to take place on a tropical island. It is one of those hikes you won’t forget.

5. Stargaze at Glacier Point

stargazing glacier point-7

There are lots of great places for dark night skies in California, but my favorite is Glacier Point in Yosemite. There is just something about watching the sunset fade over half dome and then seeing the stars light up the sky behind it that is just magical to me.

6. Kayak to Fannette Island in Emerald Bay State Park

Kayaking to Fannette Island-21

In South Lake Tahoe sits one of my favorite state parks in all of California, Emerald Bay. In the middle of the bay is an island with an old tea house on top of it. Rent a kayak and paddle out to the island, where you can leave the kayak and walk up to the old tea house.

7. See the Rocks Move at the Death Valley Racetrack

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No trip to Death Valley is complete without taking the 27-mile dirt road out to the racetrack where the rocks move on their own. This desolate spot, out on an old dry lake bed, is a place you need to see with your own eyes to believe.

8. Watch the Sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge

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The Golden Gate Bridge is up there with the Hollywood Sign as one of the most notable man-made objects in the state. I never get tired of seeing it, as it is just so majestic. Take the time to sit and watch the sun go down on it when you are in the area. I like Moore Pier or Battery Point for this.

9. Walk up Salvation Mountain

salvation mountain

One man’s tribute to God’s Love is a really fun road trip destination out in the Salton Sea. Sure it can be a strange place to visit and incredibly hot in the summer, but you will never forget seeing this crazy painted mountain right out in the arid desert.

10. Climb to the Highest Point in the Contiguous   USA ,  Mt Whitney

View-from-Mt-Whitney-Summit

If you are a hiker then of course Mt Whitney is on your list. While it is not technical, it is a real grind to get to the top especially considering the high altitude which tops out at over 14,000 feet. However, once you get there, you will be standing on top of the tallest mountain in the lower 48, which is quite an achievement.

11. Wine Taste at the Oldest Winery in the State

Buena Vista Winery-16

In Sonoma County sits the oldest, continuously running winery in all of California. At over a century and a half old it is even on the National Register of Historical Places and it is a fun spot to say you visited when in CA. The winery is called Buena Vista, and it has an awesome old stone building that you wine taste in.

12. Explore the Capitol Building in Sacramento

Inside the Capitol-5

Sacramento itself is a great spot to spend some time and dive into the awesome Farm to Fork scene they are cultivating. However, the most unique thing you can do in the city is visit the Capitol Building and see the different Houses represented there. I found this to be really interesting and something that should be on everyone’s list.

13. Take a Boat to the Channel Islands

Inspiration Point Anacapa

The Channel Islands are one of the least visited national parks in the entire United States, which makes them an amazingly peaceful spot for exploring and for relaxing your mind. Whether it is kayaking, hiking or wildlife viewing you will find something to love on these remote islands.

14. Watch the Sunset over the Sunset Cliffs

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By far one of my favorite spots for watching the sunset is the aptly named Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. I have been here countless times, and I never tire of how beautiful the area is and how amazing the sunset appears as it eases slowly down over the rocks and water. It feels remote even though it is right in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the USA.

15. See the Oldest Trees in the World

Patriarch Grove Bristlecone-22

Taking the trip up to the Ancient Bristlecone Forest outside of Big Pine should be on every adventurer’s list. The oldest living tree in the world is situated up there and even if that wasn’t the case, these gnarled, and unique pine trees are a photographers paradise.

16. Walk the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes

Cypress Tree Tunnel-3

Sure you have seen this on one of your favorite photographer’s Instagrams, but have you thought about visiting yourself? It is such an easy spot to get to a you literally just drive up. The pictures are just incredible with the old cypress grove seeming to close in on you as you walk the road.

17. Sit at the Base of the Largest Tree in the World

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Not to be overshadowed by the oldest tree in the world, the largest tree in the world is also in California, in Sequoia National Park. It is hard to comprehend when you see it as it is just so large, but it really does make you realize how small you are in the grand scheme of things.

18. Rappel into Moaning Cavern

Moaning Cavern-11

When you think of unique adventures in California, it is hard to think of something as unique as this. In Central California, there is a cave that the Statue of Liberty could fit into and that you can pay to rappel into. It was such a crazy experience that I highly recommend you get over your fear or heights and do it as well.

19. Hike to the Top of Half Dome

Half Dome-1

Half Dome is probably the most recognizable natural attraction in California and for good reason. The hike to the top is not for the faint of heart, as you have to do 16 miles and 6,000 feet of elevation to complete it, a few hundred feet of which is by pulling yourself up anxiety-inducing cables. I was so proud of myself for finishing it, but I probably would not do it again.

20. Road Trip to the California Missions

Mission San Francisco Solano-2

The 21 Spanish California Missions are unique pieces of California history. If you have grown up in the California school system, then you will study them in the 4th grade, but if not you can make a fun, week-long road trip visiting these buildings, which are some of the oldest in the entire state.

21. Bike the Devils Slide

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Outside of Half Moon Bay, there is an old piece of Pacific Coast Highway that was so dangerous that it was closed. When they closed it though they repaved it and made it a multi-use trail for walking and biking. It is one of the most beautiful bike trails you can do in the state as you get to look at staggering views without worrying about cars.

22. Hang Out with the Elephant Seals in Ano Nuevo

Ano Nuevo State Park-8

Ano Nuevo State Park is unique in California as it protects the elephant seal population but also provides an almost safari-like experience for the visitor. During the summer months, you can hike out to the area where the elephant seals are at and watch them in their natural habitat. It is a lot of fun as there are sand dunes and such which make it so you never know what you are going to find over each new hill.

23. Explore the Wine Castle in Napa Valley

Castello di Amorosa-24

Sure the true wine people might not love this recommendation, but it is just such a fun spot to explore that it is an easy suggestion for me. The castle itself has over 100 rooms and you can take a tour that takes you through dungeons, courtyards, and ballrooms. They call it the Disneyland for adults and it is easy to see why.

24. Snowshoe to Fallen Leaf Lake

Snowshoe Fallen Leaf Lake-9

During the winter months in Lake Tahoe, grabbing some snowshoes is one of the best ways you can see the area without other people. I like the trail to Fallen Leaf Lake as it is approachable for almost anyone, yet the views at the end are stunning.

25. Marvel at the Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants-5

The Avenue of the Giants rivals Big Sur for me in terms of drives that just continue to blow your mind. This ride takes you 31 miles through one of the most beautiful groves of redwoods that you have ever seen. Each bend provides another fantastic spot for a photo and you can stop at dozens of groves to explore and experience the trees up close as well.

26. Spend a Day in the Alabama Hills

alabama hills archs-2

While I wouldn’t recommend this during the summer, during the spring and fall the Alabama Hills are a wonderland for the adventurer. With hundreds of arches, most that don’t even have trails, you can scramble around rocks, drive the dirt roads and just get lost trying to find new rock formations.

27. Watch the Sunset over the Kelso Dunes

Kelso Dunes 18

As one of the easiest to access set of dunes in California, the Kelso Dunes are an amazing spot to spend some time at. I will say that the hike up is not very enjoyable, but if you watch the sunset over the desert from there it is hard to beat.

28. Sit in a Hot Spring off Highway 395

Hot springs-4

There are a dozen or so hot springs around the Bishop / Mammoth area and while some are better than others, it is hard to beat sitting in a hot tub fed by natural warm water and looking out over the Eastern Sierras.

29. See the California State Fish in the Golden Trout Wilderness

Golden Trout Wilderness 19

The golden trout are only really found in one particular area of California, called the Golden Trout Wilderness. Located at 10,000 feet, these high altitude lakes and streams are incredible places to explore even if you don’t like to fish.

30. Hike to the World’s Largest Wooden Trestle 

Goat Canyon Trestle-25

As one of the tougher short hikes you can do in California, visiting the Goat Canyon Trestle is an epic bucket list adventure. This bridge is the largest freestanding wooden trestle in the world, so it makes sense that the adventure would be worth the payoff.

31. Explore the Geothermal Pools of Bumpass Hell

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While nowhere near what you would see in Yellowstone, California’s geothermal area in Lassen National Park is still worth seeing. Bumpass Hell is the highlight of the area as it has crazy colors and a boardwalk that takes you right over the bubbling pools.

32. Tour the Historic Mission Inn Hotel

Mission Inn-21

The Mission Inn is one of the most beautiful and historic hotels in California. It has welcomed many presidents and was the place where Richard Nixon got married. The hotel is gorgeous and really fun to walk around and explore. Bonus points for going during Christmas when they have one of the best Christmas light displays in the USA.

33. Find a Banana Slug in Santa Cruz

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One of the most unique little creatures in California is the elusive and fun banana slug which hangs out in the mountains above Santa Cruz. You never know if you will stumble on one while on a trail but Big Basin State Park is a great spot to see these guys.

34. Get in the Christmas Spirit at Robolights in Palm Springs

Robolights 2015-4

As one of the largest private Christmas light displays in all of the USA, Kenny’s Robolights in Palm Springs is a positively uncommon experience. The robots and characters that fill this massive property are covered in more lights than you can imagine one person facilitating.

35. Drive through Bishop Creek in the Fall

Bishop Creek 35

Bishop Creek is one of the most beautiful spots in the entire Eastern Sierra range year-round; however, when the colors change in the fall, it becomes gorgeous. I go pretty much every year, and it never gets old.

36. Have a Drink with a Mermaid

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Dive Bar in Sacramento has a full aquarium above the bar, and during select weekend nights they have mermaids and mermen that swim in the aquarium while interacting with the fish and the patrons below.

37. Marvel at the Devil’s Postpile

Devils Postpile 4

Located on the backside of Mammoth Mountain, Devil’s Postpile is a fantastic National Monument with a crazy rock formation. Bonus points for also hiking to Rainbow Falls while in the area.

38. Whale Watch in Santa Cruz

Chardonnay II Sailing 7

Santa Cruz is a great town in general, but when the whales are coming through the area it becomes magical. I recommend getting out on a boat and seeing the animals up close, but often you can even see them from the pier as well.

39. Wander through California’s Best Aquarium

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While the Monterey Aquarium can be expensive and crowded, it truly is an amazing way to see the coast’s plethora of sea creatures. I can easily spend a half day just walking around and taking in all of the fantastic fish, eels, and seahorses they have on display.

40. Make a Frog Jump in Angels Camp

Angels Camp-4

Angel’s Camp is home to a yearly fair where they have a unique event, frog jumping. While you should go just to watch the “professionals” you can also try your hand at the sport as well. This event became famous through the Mark Twain novel called “The Jumping Frogs of Calaveras County.”

41. See Yosemite’s Second Valley at Hetch Hetchy

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While the issue of the dam at Hetch Hetchy is incredibly polarizing, no one can debate about the beauty of the area itself. There are miles of trails that take you around the area’s waterfalls and rivers while looking down on the lake itself.

42. Enjoy Beach Hiking at Torrey Pines State Reserve

Torrey Pines Reserve-12

As one of my favorite hikes in Southern California, Torrey Pines is a great spot to do some beach hiking. The trails lead to multiple overlooks while eventually taking you down to a picturesque beach as well.

43. Get a Donut at One of California Most Iconic Spots

Randys donuts with plane flying overhead

The giant donut that sits on top of Randy’s in Los Angeles has been beckoning visitors for decades. I for one go nearly every time I am in the area and it never gets old. The donut has been featured in tons of movies as well, such as Iron Man 2. I recommend the chocolate devils food.

44. Float down the Sacramento River

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One of the most popular Northern California adventures in the summer is grabbing an inner tube and just getting out on the river to float. They have one of the largest floats in California during memorial day weekend in Chico or you can avoid the crowds and go any other day of the year.

45. Backpack in Yosemite

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While hiking the John Muir Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in all of the USA, most people will not have the opportunity to do it and I wanted to keep this list approachable to everyone. Backpacking in Yosemite is one of the best ways to explore the park while avoiding a lot of the crowds. I recommend doing something like Glen Aulin or Clouds Rest if it is your first time and be sure to research and understand what you are doing before you go.

46. Walk Across the Border to Mexico

Tecate Peak Brewery 17

Since California shares a border with Mexico, you really should visit it while living / exploring the state. Most people will choose to walk over the border at Tijuana and do some shopping, but for me I like to head east and walk over the border at Tecate. This city is home to the famous brewery and it can be fun to wander around and have a drink or a burrito then walk back across.

47. Take Surf Lessons in San Diego

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If you are in California then you should try your hand at surfing, which is a relative state sport here. There is no better spot to do it then in the magical city of San Diego with its fabulous beaches and perfect weather.

48. Bike from Huntington to Newport Beach

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While there are lots of great beach bike trails like San Clemente, I really like biking from Huntington to Newport. This trail lets you explore both of these fun SoCal beaches along a beautiful bike path. Stop at Wahoos in Huntington for some fish tacos after.

49. Explore the California State Railroad Museum and Old Town Sacramento

Railroad Museum-11

I love trains, but even if you don’t share that love, it is hard to think of anyone not enjoying the California State Railroad Museum in Old Town Sacramento. It is one of the best museums I have ever been to. Be sure to stroll the streets of Old Town Sacramento after visiting the museum.

50. Camp on Angel Island

hipcamp quarry beach

While most people will visit Alcatraz when in San Francisco (which of course they should), Angel’s Island is a unique spot for a more private outdoor adventure. You can take a boat over and hike or camp on this island with views of San Francisco and little to no people.

51. Kayak the Sea Caves of La Jolla

Kayaking-in-la-jolla-sea-caves

La Jolla is a great spot for kayakers of all abilities to test out being in the open water. If you are more advanced though there are a few sea caves that you can navigate into which are unique to this stretch of Southern California coast.

52. Eat an Oyster from the Tomales Bay at Hog Island

Hog Island-14

Oysters are not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you haven’t had them directly from the water, then you should give them another try. Hog Island on Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most beautiful spots you will ever eat oysters, as they are pulled right out of the Tomales Bay in front of you.

53. Tour the Jelly Bean Factory

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Located in Fairfield, the Jelly Bean Factory is really fun spot to explore with the whole family. Take the free tour and look out over the sea of jelly beans while getting to try each step of the creation process. I love the atmosphere they create here and eating jelly beans is just a plus.

54. Eat at a Thomas Keller Restaurant in Yountville

Bouchon-11

Thomas Keller is one of California’s most famous chefs. His main restaurant “The French Laundry” has been named the best restaurant in the world multiple times. While that spot is hard to get into and expensive you can opt to try one of his two other restaurants in the town of Yountville, my favorite is Bouchon. It’s a legit culinary adventure.

55. Harness your Inner Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison Museum

Folsom Prison Museum 1

Folsom Prison was made famous by the Johnny Cash song and the concert he held in the prison. They created a small museum on site that talks about all of this and more prison history. It’s pretty crazy to go there and learn about the Johnny Cash influence while also seeing all of the different things prisoners have snuck in and other exhibits.

56. Explore the Ghost Town of Bodie

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Bodie is California’s most well-preserved ghost town, and it is a blast for the whole family to visit. I always enjoy walking the streets and imagining life in this once booming town.

57. Climb the Mosiac Steps in San Francisco

Mosiac Steps 16th St 5

This spot became popular during the rise of social media, but it is a great place for photography. You can climb the hundred or so mosaic steps; then when you get to the top, there is a park that gives you a fantastic view of San Francisco below.

58. Drive Through a Tree

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Driving North on Highway 101, it is fun to pull off at one of the three drive-through trees for a fun photo.

59. Spelunk into the Caves of Pinnacles National Park

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Pinnacles National Park is the newest National Park in the country, and because of that it is not very well known. The caves there are easily accessible by a short trail, and because of that, it is a unique way to get a non-guided tour cave experience.

60. See the Purple Sand of Pfeiffer Beach

purple sand pfieffer

Pfeiffer Beach is fantastic in its own right, but if you go right after the rain, then you will be in for a treat with the purple sand that comes down from the mountains behind it.

61. Tour the Crazy Winchester Mansion

front-of-the-winchester-house

This mansion was the brainchild of the heir to the Winchester Company fortune. She believed that she would die if she ever stopped building though, so the house has stairs that lead to nowhere, doors to brick walls and all sorts of craziness. It is so big that you walk over a mile while on the tour of it.

62. See the Dead Fish Beaches of the Salton Sea

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Salton Sea is a lake that went through a massive chemical transition which killed nearly every fish that lived in it. Now it is an eerie yet beautiful spot. The state park itself has beaches with dead and decaying fish scattered all over them; it is something you have to see to believe.

63. Take a Selfie with Giant Paul Bunyon at Trees of Mystery

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These 50-foot tall statues mark the entrance to the Trees of Mystery which is a fun tourist attraction in Northern California. You won’t be able to miss them when you drive up Highway 101 and why would you want to, they are awesome!

64. Find Out What the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot is All About

Mystery Spot Santa Cruz 2

I am sure you have seen the bumper stickers for this crazy gravitational anomaly in Santa Cruz. It is a fun spot to bring the family and turn off your mind to marvel at the displays they created to mess with you.

65. Wander the Shores of Glass Beach

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This is the beach where people threw trash, and the ocean returned beautiful pieces of glass. It is a stunning spot in Northern California with a small shore full of smooth pieces of glass.

66. Find all the Metal Statues in Anza Borrego

Borrego Springs Sculptures 4

With over a hundred statues situated all around the park, it is an utter blast just to drive around and try and find them all. Many of them are massive like the above dragon and the scorpion, making them fantastic for photography and overall exploration.

67. Explore Olympic History in Squaw Valley

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The Olympic Museum in Squaw Valley is only accessible via a tram that takes you to the top of the mountain. In the building situated on top of the mountain is the small museum itself. While there isn’t a lot to really see at the museum, it is super fun to take the tram up and see the massive Olympic Rings.

68. Hike the Rubicon Trail along Lake Tahoe

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This trail goes from DL Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay. Along the way you see stunning views of the immaculate blue water stretching out in front of you. It is hard to find a more beautiful trail in the area.

69. Gaze Down at the Yosemite Valley from Taft Point

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Another incredibly popular Instagram spot, I am still surprised by how many people have seen it but didn’t know how easy it was to get to. This 2-mile round trip hike is relatively flat, and it takes you to one of Yosemite’s best viewpoints.

70. W alk the Granite Steps up Moro Rock

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Moro Rock in Sequoia is a short hike with anxiety-inducing granite steps that takes you to the top of a massive rock overlooking the valley. I recommend it at sunset but make sure to bring a flashlight for the walk back.

71. Visit a Bakery in Solvang

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The Danish town of Solvang, along the Central Coast, is a great place to feel like you have left California. The city itself is entirely Danish inspired, and the bakeries all around town are home to some amazing pastries as well.

72. Eat at a Fairy Tale Restaurant in Santa Barbara

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If you are talking about amazing places to eat, then no list would be complete without mentioning Cold Springs Tavern. With literally nothing around it, this spot has become a local favorite ever since it was a stagecoach stop over 100 years ago. Be sure to order the tri tip.

73. Indulge your Inner Movie Star at Paramount Ranch

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The old movie town of Paramount Ranch is still a really popular filming location for Hollywood. Since it is on public property though, you can go explore it, even when they are filming. I love walking down the dirt streets and indulging my inner movie star here.

74. Explore the Underground Gardens of Fresno 

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One of the most strange and unique spots along Highway 99, the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, are something you need to take a tour of to appreciate. The brainchild of one man over many decades, these gardens are a labyrinth of underground exploration.

75. Take a Ghost Tour of the Haunted Queen Mary

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The Queen Mary is the famous ship that sits in the Long Beach Harbor and has become one of the state’s most popular museums. It is supposedly haunted and they have a fun tour that takes you on the ship and tells you about the haunting.

76. Learn at the Museums of Balboa Park

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Balboa Park houses more than a dozen museums and is virtually impossible to explore without a few days. The museum’s are some of the best in the state with Museum of Man, Air and Space and the Miniature Train Museum being a few of my favorites.

77. Take the Boat to Alcatraz

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Alcatraz is one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions and it is a fun spot to explore for a half day and get out of the city. Be sure to book the tour in advance though as it always books up fast.

78. Drive Historic Route 66

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Route 66 ends in California. Because of that, there are a lot of adventures you can have on the Mother Road in the state. Some of the highlights for me are the original McDonalds Museum and Elmer’s Bottletree Ranch.

79. Stand on the Lowest Point in North America

Salt lake in badwater

Badwater in Death Valley is the lowest point in North America at -280 feet below sea level. The salt flats that stretch out before your eyes are stunning, just make sure not to go in the summer.

80. Spend a Night at Madonna Inn

Madonna Inn Old World Suite

Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo is a hotel where every room is different. I love staying there and picking a new room each time. My favorite is the Old World Suite though with its rock waterfall shower and stone walls.

81. Explore California Literary History

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Whether it is John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, Mark Twain’s Angels Camp or Jack London’s Sonoma, there are so many ways you can dig into literary history all over the state.

82. Stand on the Unofficial Center of the World

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Sure you really need to be committed to make it all the way to this spot, but the Unofficial Center of the World is located in California. Weirdly, it is not recognized by California itself but it is acknowledged by places like France and others. There are plenty of additional things to see here too like an original piece of the Effiel Tower.

83. Snorkel off Catalina Island

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It is a joy to be able to get to an island off the coast of California after only a 45-minute drive and a 45-minute boat ride from Los Angeles. Catalina is a great spot to indulge in a slower island lifestyle for a few days and the snorkeling is the best you will find in California.

84. Wander Through an Aircraft Carrier at USS Midway

USS-Midway-Far-Shot

The aircraft carrier in the bay of San Diego is a great spot to bring the family and get lost exploring the massive boat. I have been a few times, and I still don’t think I have seen everything as I always seem to get lost going down all the different corridors.

85. Visit Hearst Castle

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Heart Castle sits in the mountains above the central coast, and it is one of those spots I always skipped over on my trips. When I finally made it there, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it though. It is such a crazy place full of immaculate rooms and pools, make sure to add it to your list.

86. Tour Mercer Caverns

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Mercer Caverns is one of my favorite of the popular tour caves. This one has a lot of history, allows you to go deep into the cave itself and has sections where you feel like you are in an adventurous cave with steep staircases.

87. Walk out on Potato Chip Rock

Potato-Chip-Rock

Potato Chip Rock is a relatively polarizing spot in San Diego that many hikers love while other hate. I for one think it is a unique experience, so I recommend you do it if you want to get into hiking and see a fun payoff at the end.

88. Climb the Stairs to the Fire Lookout at Sierra Buttes

Sierra Buttes Fire Outlook 4

This hike is one of my favorites in the Tahoe area as it leads to a vertigo-inducing staircase and the ultimate payoff of a fire overlook that looks out over the area below. It is beautiful and well worth a spot on your hiking list.

89. Grab the Headlamp and Explore Lava Beds National Monument

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One of the hardest to reach parks in California, Lava Beds is located in the Northern part of the state. It is an unusual spot with many really long caves that you can explore with a flashlight and a little courage.

90. Walk Across the Sundial Bridge

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As you can tell, I love bridges and this one in Redding is different. It is fun to walk across as the bridge itself never actually touches the water below it.

91. Fly Over San Diego in a Biplane

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While there are a ton of great experiences you can have in San Diego, I love seeing it from above. The best way I ever did that was by getting in a historic biplane and staring out over the coastline below.

92. Snowshoe to a Sequoia Grove

Tuolumne Grove-5

It is hard to ever be alone with some of the famous giant trees in Sequoia or Yosemite, but if you wait till it snows and strap on some snowshoes, then you can walk down to see the trees pretty much all by yourself.

93. Find a Mine in Joshua Tree National Park

Lost Horse Mine 7

Joshua Tree is full of gold mines with some being nothing but holes and others still having full stamp mills. The latter of which is my favorite and it is called Lost Horse Mine, but finding any of the mines in the park makes for a fun adventure.

94. Visit Elvis Honeymoon Home in Palm Springs

Elvis Honeymoon Home-1

Many people do not know about this unique connection between Elvis and California, but it is actually where he spent his honeymoon. The house has stayed relatively the same since that time and it has become a draw for all of the Elvis lovers out there. I wouldn’t put myself in that camp but I still found it to be a really fun place to explore.

95. Stand Under California’s Tallest Bridge in Auburn

Foresthill Bridge-8

The Foresthill Bridge in Auburn is the tallest in the state, and it is pretty scary to look out over the edge of the bridge. There are even a few trails around the area that let you walk under it and marvel at how massive it truly is.

96. Wander Land’s End and the Sutro Baths

lands end-1

Land’s End is one of the most picturesque trails in all of San Francisco and it is a go-to for me in the area. The trail has fantastic coastal views, the Sutro Baths, and vista points for the Golden Gate Bridge.

97. Experience the Poppy Bloom in Antelope Valley State Park

Poppy Reserve 21

When it is in bloom, Antelope Valley is a magical field of orange that stretches as far as the eye can see. It is highly dependent on the weather we have each year, but when it is right, the poppies are mind-blowing.

98. Tour Nit Witt Ridge

Nitt Witt Ridge 40

The poor man’s Hearst Castle, Nit Witt Ridge is a collection of trash, art and not following building codes that lead to this crazy mansion in Cambria. They offer tours a few times a week, and it is something I guarantee you will not have seen before.

99. Stare into the Ubehebe Crater

Ubehebe Crater

The Ubehebe Crater in Death Valley is just another of the natural wonders you can visit in this fascinating park. It is so massive though that you need to see it with your own eyes as pictures do not do it justice.

100. Eat a Burger Animal Style at In & Out

in and out-1-2

I figured I couldn’t let this list end without the quintessential California experience of eating In & Out. This burger joint is as California as anything on the list. If you are visiting then get a double-double animal style, you can thank me later.

So there you have it, my California Bucket List suggestions after exploring for five years. Thanks for reading all the way to the end! I would love to hear what you think I left off in the comments and be sure to let me know how many you have done yourself as well.

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Visit California

The Ultimate California Road Trip

Explore the Golden State on a journey from San Francisco to Kings Canyon

Visit California

California is huge. But it’s the diverse landscapes, not just size, that make California so attractive to anyone who loves the outdoors. The short list: nine national parks (more than any other state); 840 miles of coastline with more than 1,150 public access points; and 12 distinct regions, each with its own flavor. From desert terrain to coastal mountains that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, from fertile valleys to the alpine wonderland of the Sierra Nevada, California is really one giant playground. I’m all about playing outside, so naturally I was super excited for a midsummer road trip from San Francisco, down the Central Coast, through the Central Valley, and into Kings Canyon.

Meghan Miranda in California

Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you, “Meg has a lot of hobbies.” No argument here. I like to play. Hiking, biking, paddling, diving, aerial arts—if it’s outside and I’m moving my body, then I’m in. California, specifically the eastern Sierra, has been my personal playground for more than seven years. I can do everything I love here. All of my mountain hobbies are accessible from my front door—literally. And the activities I enjoy that aren’t mountain related? I’m just a road trip away from California’s coast, big cities, the west side of the Sierra Nevada and all the fun that comes with exploring new places. Wherever you’re from, California might just be the perfect playground for you too . For the ultimate mix of coast, mountain, cities big and small, creative culture, and local food and drink, try this itinerary. I just did it, and here’s what I found.

Stop 1: San Francisco

San Francisco will make a city person out of anyone. It has all the perks of a world-class city, plus world-class access to the outdoors. That’s why I have a soft spot for this city—and why I started my road trip there. Here’s what I recommend.

Paddle the San Francisco Bay.

Views of the bay from the shore are stunning, but to truly experience San Francisco Bay, you have to get out on the water. My trusty paddleboard made the trip, so I decided to put her seaworthiness to the test with a morning SUP sesh in the bay. Launch from McCovey Cove, near Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, for views of downtown San Francisco and Treasure Island. This launch area is known for having calm waters, but you can tip the scales in your favor by getting out in the morning before afternoon winds pick up. I wasn’t the only one enjoying the great weather and calm morning waters—I enjoyed a visit from a curious harbor seal while I was out and about. If you don’t bring your board with you everywhere in summer like I do, you can rent a kayak instead. Or, if you’re visiting Friday to Monday, opt for a 1.5-hour guided paddle with City Kayak.

Paddle the San Francisco Bay

Explore nature art around the city.

To see just how intertwined San Francisco is with nature, head to Wood Line in the Presidio to check out the nature art constructed by Andy Goldsworthy, whose work is featured around the city. Want to get your hands dirty with your own nature art experience? Sign up for a wild clay class at Artillery Ceramics. This local pottery studio offers clay foraging workshops at local nature reserves. Learn about gathering clay and then shape it into your own masterpiece right on the beach.

Bike the Golden Gate Bridge.

Touristy? Yes, and totally worth doing. Rent a bike and pedal all or part of the bridge. From the Presidio to the Marin County line and back is about 3.5 miles. Weekdays before 3 p.m., the pedestrian path is open to both bikes and foot traffic. After 3 p.m. and on weekends, the west side pedestrian path becomes bikes only, which makes navigating easier if you’re like me and not used to biking in cities.

Golden Gate Bridge

Catch classic San Francisco sunset views.

Every San Francisco local has their favorite sunset spot. Lucky for me (and you), a local friend was willing to share hers. For prime sunset views of the Golden Gate Bridge, hike the Batteries to Bluffs Trail on the west side of the Presidio. This short but steep 2.3-mile hike runs along the cliff and offers multiple lookout points to see the bay, bridge, and Point Bonita Lighthouse across the water. On your way back to the trailhead, keep an eye out for banana slugs. These bright yellow slugs like to hang out on the stairs that lead down to the water at dusk.

Travel Tip: Book a room at the Lodge at the Presidio . This boutique hotel is the closest lodging to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, so you’ll be right in the heart of the action with lots of walkable access to nearby restaurants. Venturing beyond walking distance? Park your car and cruise the city using Waymo —the all-electric self-driving cabs recently piloted in the city.

Stop 2: Monterey

Take the scenic route along Highway 1 from San Francisco to explore more of the Central Coast . About three hours south of the Bay Area by car, Monterey gives a more relaxed city vibe, complete with easy beach access, delicious seaside eats, and a rad diving community.

Dive at the Breakwater.

Monterey is famous for its kelp forests and the unique marine life that thrives in that ecosystem, like sea otters, spider crabs, nudibranchs, massive sea stars, and sea lions. As a longtime diver, I’ve had this area on my list for ages, so I was stoked to spend the morning underwater with divemaster Phil from Aquarius Dive Shop . Conditions were right for a dive at the iconic Breakwater site off San Carlos Beach, where we got an up-close look at the kelp forests and a visit from a curious sea lion. Drifting through the towering kelp—which can grow to heights of 175 feet—truly felt like another world. As a diver who prides herself on maintaining good trim (horizontal orientation underwater that’s considered good form in diving), I rarely find myself looking up underwater. Thankfully, my divemaster didn’t let me miss the chance to look up and see the sunlight streaming down between the swaying kelp above me—a truly unique perspective of an already awe-inspiring ecosystem. Not a diver? The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a massive two-story kelp forest exhibit that gives visitors an underwater experience without actually going underwater.

Monterey Aquarium

Hang at Dust Bowl Brewing in the Wharf.

When your divemaster tells you to go to a local watering hole for fish tacos and a beer, you go. Grab dinner at Wedo’s Tacos food truck , which is parked at the Dust Bowl Brewing Company Tap Depot . The recommended fish tacos with a Taco Truck Lager (a Dust Bowl classic) did not disappoint. If you’re up for a second beer, Phil says the Therapist Imperial IPA is his dessert of choice.

Dust Bowl Brewing

Visit a local climbing gym, but make it aerial arts.

California’s sunshine makes it easy to spend all your time outdoors. But whenever I need a break from the sun, I love checking out local aerial arts classes. Sanctuary Climbing & Fitness , on the north end of the Monterey Peninsula, offers lyra and silks classes right in the climbing gym, creating a great atmosphere and community feel. Of course, climbing is also an option here if that’s more your vibe.

Travel Tip: In a place like Monterey, beachfront accommodations are the way to go. Book a room at Monterey Tides (soon to debut as Monterey Beach Hotel later this year after some exciting renovations) for a low-key spot with great beach access to relax post-adventure.

Stop 3: Big Sur

With dramatic oceanside bluffs, redwood-filled canyons, and scenic views in every direction, Big Sur has been on my list for ages, and this classic coastal drive definitely lived up to the hype. 

Drive scenic Highway 1.

This iconic stretch of highway on the California coast just north of Big Sur recently reopened, which means visitors could access most of Big Sur again while I was in the area. (As of July 2024, repairs are still in progress on the southern stretch of the highway through Big Sur 2.1 miles north of Lucia to 16.8 miles south of Dolan Point.) Take your time driving this unbelievably scenic stretch of coastline. Trust me, you’ll want to have plenty of time for stops to take pictures and marvel at the landscape.

Highway 1.

Go on a guided hike.

As someone who hikes often and feels comfortable in the outdoors, I don’t typically have guided hikes on my radar. But if you have limited time to explore, going out with a guide can help maximize your day. Depending on the time of year, a local guide can help you fully experience Big Sur by showing you all the seasonal magic, like mushroom foraging in winter, monarch butterflies migrating through the area in fall, and wildflowers blooming in spring. For summertime, my guide Patrice had California condors and ladybugs on his mind. A Big Sur local since 1985, Patrice knows every canyon along the coast and has a lifetime of stories to share. As we drove Highway 1 toward Tan Bark Trail , he pulled over to point out a rocky crag where he’s often spotted condors. The population has grown over the years thanks to a local breeding and reintroduction program. On the trail, we plucked and ate thimbleberries right off the bushes, tasted tender wood sorrel growing on the forest floor, and peeked under logs and brush to find thousands of ladybugs that stop over in Big Sur on their annual migration. After a magical hike, grab drinks with a view at the outdoor terrace at Ventana Big Sur , followed by a bite at one of Big Sur’s newest restaurants, The Village .

Big Sur

Travel Tip: California’s wild spaces can be fragile and at risk of damage from human activity. That fact is especially apparent in Big Sur. When you visit, tread lightly to help protect this delicate coastal ecosystem.

Stop 4: Fresno and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

I always have a hard time saying goodbye to the California coast, but hitting the road is easier when exciting adventures await just three hours inland. With access to three national parks—Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia—all within a 90-minute drive, Fresno might just be one of the greatest gateway cities of all time. Set up base camp in the Fresno area for access to adventures in town and outdoors.

Head underground to escape the heat.

Summertime in the Central Valley is all about sunshine. When temperatures soar, escape the heat at one of Fresno’s most unique spots: Forestiere Underground Gardens . This subterranean fruit garden was a labor of love by one of Fresno’s early farmers, who tunneled below the hardpan soil to find respite from the heat for both himself and his beloved citrus trees. As a hobby gardener currently contending with high desert heat in my own garden, I can appreciate the ingenuity. The tour of the underground garden was filled with fun tidbits about this creative farming solution and the history of this region as a hub for farming in California.

Kings Canyon National Park

Grab snacks at local fruit stands.

The California sun is exactly why Fresno and the Central Valley are known for their abundance of produce. More than half of the country’s fruit and the majority of tree nuts are grown in this region. Visiting during summer means access to the freshest fruit you can find. Stop along the Fresno County Fruit Trail or hit the Old Town Clovis Farmers Market to stock up on fresh produce to take along on the day’s outdoor adventures.

Day trip to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI).

I’ve spent a ton of time in Yosemite but only ever hiked into Sequoia & Kings Canyon from the east side of the Sierra, so I couldn’t miss the opportunity to check out the west side.

🥾 Visit the largest trees in the world. I’ve seen giant sequoia trees in Yosemite National Park, but nothing compares to the massive sequoia groves in SEKI. The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180 into the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon) reopened in June 2024, so driving this 50-mile scenic route was the first order of business. Stop in Grant Grove to see the General Grant Tree , the second largest tree in the world by trunk volume at 46,608 cubic feet. (I got a chance to see the largest—the General Sherman Tree , measuring 52,508 cubic feet—when I drove south toward Giant Forest later in the day.) I am decidedly not a math person, so the stats didn’t really compute until I saw these towering trees in person. Continue on a choose-your-own-adventure drive, stopping at waterfalls, impressive rock formations, and overlooks with views of Kings Canyon and the Kings River.

🥾 Go for a hike. When you’re ready to explore on foot, hike the scenic 1.3-mile Crescent Meadow Loop . The trail takes you through a vibrant green meadow filled with wildflowers and surrounded by giant sequoia trees on all sides. This area is a hub to access lots of trails in the SEKI wilderness, including the famous High Sierra Trail , which spans nearly 70 miles one way and connects SEKI to Whitney Portal on the east side of the Sierra. If you have more time, consider a longer hike to explore more of the area, or plan ahead to get backpacking permits for a multiday trip.

Travel Tip: Time your day to make it back to the Fresno area for dinner at Trelio Food & Wine in Old Town Clovis. This local eatery serves a five-course prix fixe menu featuring all of the local food the Central Valley is famous for. The menu changes daily based on the ingredients available from local markets, farms, and foragers.

Visit California is a nonprofit organization with a mission to develop and maintain marketing programs in partnership with the state’s travel industry that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. For more information about Visit California and for a free California Official State Visitor’s Guide, go to visitcalifornia.com.

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Disney California Adventure Park

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Friday, July 26, 2024

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Can't-Miss Attractions

Incredicoaster.

Join the mad dash to catch Jack-Jack as he wreaks havoc throughout this high-speed chase!

Radiator Springs Racers

Get revved as the Radiator Springs crew shifts this high-octane ride into overdrive!

Soarin’ Around the World

Take flight on a breezy airborne adventure above the wonders of the world!

Savor the Flavors

Lamplight lounge.

Soak up waterfront views as you enjoy gastropub-style dishes and signature libations.

Flo's V8 Cafe

Go with the Flo and dig into comfort food filled with finger-lickin’ good fun!

Carthay Circle Restaurant

Indulge in award-worthy fare amidst a Golden-Era backdrop worthy of top billing.

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Team up with the Avengers at a campus they’ve created to recruit the next generation of super heroes!

Gear up for fun in a fantasy world fueled by the characters and adventures of Cars .

Hop aboard truly incredible attractions, see favorite Pixar pals, dine, shop and play!

San Fransokyo Square

Step into a vibrant, diverse locale full of neighborhood restaurants and small businesses—home to Big Hero 6!

Buena Vista Street

Find dining, shopping and more with a nostalgic twist—at Disney California Adventure Park!

Grizzly Peak

Tackle the great outdoors like never before with attractions and more!

Hollywood Land

Lights, camera… get ready for your close-up as Tinseltown stories come to life before your eyes!

Paradise Gardens Park

Visit this boardwalk-inspired land filled with tons of attractions, eateries and retro-style fun.

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25 Amazing Adventures For Your California Bucket List

Load up your backpack and head to the Golden State.

By: Anna Cohen + Save to a List

adventure california travel

California is a big state, in fact, it is the third largest in the country. Most people associate California with movie stars, avocados, and tech. But for an adventurer, it is so much more. Head to the eastern side of the state and you will run into California’s crowning glory: the Sierra Nevada. This region is an explorer’s dream. From Yosemite to Mammoth, you will find breathtaking vistas and challenging hikes. You’ll see turquoise mountain lakes and stunning cliff-faces. The possibilities are endless. Oh and did we mention the redwood forests, out-of-this-world desert landscapes, hot springs, rugged coastline, or dreamlike campsites? If you're ready to have an epic adventure-of-a-lifetime (and snag some beautiful photos while you’re at it), then load up your backpack and head to the Golden State.

1. Backpack in Redwood National and State Parks

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2. Camp at Wild Willy Hot Springs

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3. Hike to Burney Falls

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4. Backpack to the Ventana Wilderness Hot Tub

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5. Camp at Joshua Tree’s White Tank Campground

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6. Hike Torrey Pines

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7. Hike the Full John Muir Trail

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8. Hike to the Summit of Mt. Baldy

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9. Hike and Camp in the Meadows on Mt. Shasta

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10. Hike Half Dome

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11. Hike to the Summit of Mt. Whitney

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12. Backpack Ansel Adams Wilderness

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13. Camp and Kayak at Catalina’s Two Harbors

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14. Soak In The Travertine Hot Springs

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15. Hike to Alamere Falls

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16. Hike and Rock Climb at Saddle Peak

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17. Backpack To Sentinel Dome

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18. Camp at Death Valley’s Wildrose Campground

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19. Explore Muir Woods

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20. Camp at the Pots

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21. Hike to the Goat Canyon Trestle

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22. Hike to Cone Peak in Big Sur

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23. Hike to the end of Point Reyes at Tomales Point

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24. Hike To Deadman Lake

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25. Oceanview Camping at San Elijo

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Don't see your favorite California adventure on The Outbound? Show us by creating an adventure. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to brush up on LNT principles for backcountry fires as well.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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When you're thinking about a solo adventure, look no further than joining the van life!

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Working at a National Park: Cada Día es un Buen Día

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My experience growing up as a first-generation immigrant in the United States and not having done all of this stuff is not uncommon, however. It turns out a lot of my mostly Latino friends didn’t get into the outdoors until they left home.

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We spent more time in the car than we did out of it, but that's fine and not entirely unusual.

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The Ultimate California Adventure Rides List

The Ultimate California Adventure Rides List

Welcome to the ultimate guide where we’ll walk you through an adventure as intriguing as the lands of Disney California Adventure Park itself. This article is designed with a simple goal in mind: to give you a straight shot of information about one of the most thrilling places in Southern California. Forget the fluff; we’re here to talk rides, the heart and soul of any amusement park experience.

Did you know that Disney California Adventure Park, since its grand opening, has welcomed millions of visitors each year? That’s right, the allure of this park isn’t just its whimsical themes or the chance to rub elbows with beloved characters—it’s the rides that take center stage, offering everything from heart-pounding thrills to gentle adventures for the little ones.

In this article, we’re rolling out a comprehensive list of rides available at Disney California Adventure Park. From the high-speed chases in Cars Land to the imaginative flights over California on Soarin’ Around the World, we’ve got you covered. Buckle up as we guide you through Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and beyond.

Ever wondered what it takes to rank the rides at a park as diverse as Disney California Adventure? How do you compare the whimsical flight of Peter Pan to the in-depth storytelling of Radiator Springs Racers? Let’s dive into the world of Disney California Adventure Park rides and see if we can’t sort the must-dos from the maybes.

OFT Explore Highlights

Top 3 must-visit attractions that should be on your radar are

15 things to buy and send to hotel ahead of your Disney trip

  • Adrenaline-pumping Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land,
  • The immersive and interactive Toy Story Midway Mania on Pixar Pier,
  • and the innovative WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure found in the newly minted Avengers Campus.

Disney California Adventure Park Rides List

  • Disney California Adventure Park is home to over 20+ rides and attractions, offering a diverse array of experiences for visitors of all ages.
  • First off, Disney California Adventure is home to several lands that are thematic gold mines. Buena Vista Street welcomes you with a nostalgic slice of 1920s Los Angeles, setting the stage for what’s to come. Pixar Pier and Cars Land offer up some of the most visually stunning and interactive experiences.
  • Not to be outdone, the Avengers Campus pulls you straight into the action with its superhero-themed attractions and experiences. And let’s not skip over the classics like Grizzly Peak for those seeking a bit more adventure, or Paradise Gardens Park for a more laid-back vibe.
  • The ride selection here is as varied as your grandma’s recipe book. Thrill-seekers have their pick of the litter with rides like the Incredicoaster and Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
  • Meanwhile, attractions like Toy Story Midway Mania and the Silly Symphony Swings cater to those looking for fun without the fear factor. And for those who look to optimize their time at the park, utilizing the individual Lightning Lane selections at popular rides is a wise move.
  • Arguably, the number one ride at California Adventure that garners a lot of attention is Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land. This ride combines thrilling high-speed sections with charming storytelling elements, showcasing characters from the popular Pixar movie, ‘Cars’. The ride’s detailed recreation of the film’s iconic settings, alongside its innovative racing elements, makes it a standout.
  • Comparing Disneyland and California Adventure rides, one can see a distinct difference in themes and experiences. Disneyland rides often focus on classic Disney characters and fairy tale settings, while California Adventure rides lean more towards Pixar themes, California landmarks, and more recent Disney stories. This results in a different vibe and set of attractions between the two parks that complement each other.
  • Experiencing Disney California Adventure in one day is possible but requires some planning. Due to the park’s size and the popularity of its attractions, prioritizing which rides to hit first and making use of the Disney FastPass system, now known as the Lightning Lane and Individual Lightning Lane selections, can help maximize your time. However, to truly soak in all the details and enjoy the varied experiences, more than a day is recommended.

New or Updated Attractions

  • The Disney California Adventure Park constantly evolves, adding new thrills and updating classic rides to keep the adventure fresh for return visitors. For those who track the pulse of Disney parks, keeping an eye on the latest additions can significantly enrich your visit.
  • One of the most anticipated updates in recent years has been the opening of Avengers Campus, a land dedicated to Marvel superheroes. This addition has not only expanded the park’s footprint but also its appeal, drawing in fans eager to experience the universe of their favorite characters firsthand.
  • Another noteworthy update has been the reimagining of Paradise Pier into Pixar Pier, giving iconic attractions a fresh coat of paint and new life under the Pixar banner. Rides like the Pixar Pal-A-Round and Toy Story Midway Mania are now part of a cohesive Pixar-themed area, enhancing the storytelling element of the park.
  • New nighttime spectaculars have significantly impacted the overall experience at Disney California Adventure Park. These shows, such as the updated version of World of Color, provide a breathtaking closure to a day of adventures, combining music, water, and lights to create unforgettable memories.

California Adventure Rides List 2024

Organized by Areas:

Avengers Campus:

  • Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!: Embark on a thrilling mission to rescue Rocket Raccoon from the Collector’s fortress. The ride features randomized drop sequences and a rocking soundtrack.
  • Webslingers: A Spider-Man Adventure: Join Spider-Man in a web-slinging escapade to capture rogue Spider-Bots. Use your own hand gestures to shoot webs and save the day.

Buena Vista Street:

  • Red Car Trolley : Hop aboard a vintage trolley for a scenic tour of Buena Vista Street. Enjoy the nostalgic charm of early 20th-century Los Angeles.

Grizzly Peak:

  • Grizzly River Run : Brace yourself for a wild whitewater rafting adventure through Grizzly Peak. Expect splashes, twists, and turns as you navigate the rapids.
  • Soarin’ Around the World: Feel the wind in your face during an airborne hang-gliding flight over the wonders of the world. From the Great Wall of China to the Swiss Alps, it’s a breathtaking journey.
  • Redwood Creek Challenge Trail : Explore this interactive play area inspired by the great outdoors. Climb, slide, and discover nature-themed surprises.

Hollywood Land:

  • Incredicoaster : Dash alongside the Incredibles family on this high-speed coaster. Experience thrilling loops, drops, and superhero action.
  • Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! : Help Mike and Sulley rescue Boo in this dark ride based on the beloved Pixar film.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!: (Also part of Avengers Campus) – See description above.
  • Turtle Talk With Crush : Dive into the digital ocean and chat with Crush, the laid-back sea turtle from “Finding Nemo.” Interact with this animated character in real time as he answers your questions and shares his wisdom.
  • Sorcerers Workshop : Unleash your creativity in this magical workshop. Explore different rooms inspired by Disney characters:
  • Mickey’s PhilharMagic : Step into the whimsical concert hall and join Mickey on a musical adventure. As the orchestra tunes up, get ready for 3D surprises from classic Disney films.

Pacific Wharf:

  • The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure : Dive under the sea with Ariel and relive the magical tale of “The Little Mermaid.” Sing along to familiar tunes as you explore colorful scenes.
  • Jumpin’ Jellyfish: A gentle drop tower ride that lets you bounce up and down like a jellyfish in the ocean.

Paradise Gardens Park:

  • Goofy’s Playhouse: A whimsical play area for kids, inspired by Goofy’s antics.
  • Golden Zephyr: Board a spinning rocket and soar above Paradise Bay, enjoying scenic views of the water and surrounding attractions.
  • Silly Symphony Swings : Board a swing ride inspired by classic Disney animated shorts. Soar high above Paradise Bay.
  • Goofy’s Sky School : Join Goofy for a wild ride on this zany roller coaster, filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Pixar Pier:

  • Toy Story Midway Mania!: Step into a 4D carnival game hosted by Toy Story characters. Aim, shoot, and compete for high scores.
  • Incredicoaster : (Also part of Hollywood Land) – See description above. Jessie’s Critter Carousel: A delightful carousel featuring critters from Woody’s Roundup.
  • Pixar Pal-A-Round: A giant Ferris wheel with both swinging and stationary gondolas. Choose your level of thrill!
  • Jessie’s Critter Carousel : A delightful carousel featuring critters from Woody’s Roundup.
  • Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters : Hop into Luigi’s dancing cars and glide through a charming Italian village.
  • Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree : Spin and swing in tow trucks as Mater leads a lively square dance.
  • Radiator Springs Racers : Race through the scenic desert landscape of Radiator Springs in this thrilling ride.

San Fransokyo Square:

  • The Bakery Tour : Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Lucky Fortune Cookery bakery. Learn about the art of making fortune cookies and enjoy a tasty treat.

Disneyland vs. California Adventure Rides

  • When it comes to choosing between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, know this: both have their own unique flavors and charm. Disneyland, the original park, leans heavily on classic attractions and fairy-tale magic, with legendary rides like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean stealing the show. It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane where Walt Disney’s original vision comes to life.
  • Disney California Adventure, on the other hand, celebrates the adventurous spirit of the Golden State, with more emphasis on modern storytelling and thrilling experiences. Attractions here, such as the high-speed Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land and the innovative WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure in Avengers Campus, cater to those looking for an adrenaline rush.
  • The layout and themes offer a stark contrast too. Disneyland Park is divided into lands that reflect different realms of fantasy and history, creating a seamless world of imagination. Disney California Adventure Park, however, is a tribute to California’s iconic landmarks and Hollywood dreams, with areas like Buena Vista Street that harken back to the 1920s Los Angeles.
  • Both parks have implemented the Lightning Lane feature, allowing guests to skip the lines for an additional fee. This system is particularly useful for popular rides and can significantly impact your strategy for tackling each park. However, it’s worth noting that the selection of attractions available for Lightning Lane may differ between the two, adding another layer to planning your visit.

California Adventure Tickets and Park Information

  • Ticket prices for California Adventure vary based on the date and type of ticket purchased, such as single-day, multi-day, or park hopper options that allow access to both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. Typically, purchasing tickets in advance online can offer savings and the convenience of planning your visit with the park’s reservation system.
  • For those looking for deals, it’s worth exploring package deals that include hotel stays, dining plans, and even photo packages. These bundled offerings can provide a more comprehensive and often more economical way to enjoy everything Disney California Adventure and the wider Disneyland Resort have to offer.
  • Before planning your trip, it’s crucial to check the park’s official website for the latest information on operating hours, scheduled maintenance for rides, and any special events that might affect your visit. This also includes updates on safety guidelines and park capacity limits that may be in place.
  • Disney California Adventure now offers the Lightning Lane selection available through the Disney Genie service for faster access to popular attractions. This optional, paid service can significantly reduce wait times for marquee attractions but requires separate purchase from your admission ticket. Also, some rides and attractions, like those in Avengers Campus and Cars Land, may offer Individual Lightning Lane purchases for even more expedited access.

Bottom Line

  • Planning your visit to Disney California Adventure involves more than just buying tickets; it’s about crafting an adventure that includes experiencing the best rides and attractions the park has to offer. From the high-octane thrills of Cars Land and the imaginative world of Pixar Pier to the superhero action in Avengers Campus and the nostalgic charm of Buena Vista Street, there’s a diverse array of experiences waiting for every type of visitor.
  • The Lightning Lane service is a valuable tool for navigating the park efficiently, allowing you to enjoy more of what you love without the long waits. Popular attractions like Toy Story Midway Mania, the Silly Symphony Swings, and the adrenaline-pumping Incredicoaster at Pixar Pier; thrilling adventures in Cars Land; along with the immersive experiences of Star Wars and Hollywood Land should top your must-visit list.
  • Remember, Disney California Adventure is part of the larger Disneyland Resort, which means you also have Disneyland Park’s classic attractions within reach. With strategic planning, you can witness the magic of Walt Disney World’s sister park, exploring everything from the enchanting Grizzly Peak to the interactive fun of Paradise Gardens Park.
  • We encourage visitors to dive into the vast array of disneyland rides, take advantage of the Individual Lightning Lane to dodge the longer lines, and explore all the themed areas, each offering its unique form of entertainment and nostalgia. Southern California’s Disneyland Resort, with its Disney California Adventure Park at the heart, promises an experience brimming with joy, adventure, and countless memories to be made.

adventure california travel

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Perhaps no other destination in the world has as many well-known spots as California. Just mention Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Hearst Castle, Disneyland, the Griffith Observatory, or the Hollywood Sign, and people automatically know that you’ve taken a recent trip to California.

But what happens when you put the typical guidebook must-sees aside and have some adventures in California with a twist?

Biking along Route 1 on California’s central coast — where rugged cliffs plunge into the deep-blue Pacific — would qualify. Or how about rafting the Lower Klamath River as it gently winds through the northwest corner of the state near the Oregon border? One of the first rivers in California to be granted National Wild and Scenic status, the Klamath flows free for 180 miles to the Pacific Ocean. Its path through the pristine wilderness of the Siskiyou Mountains is a corridor through history: Gold miners flooded this region in the mid 1800s, and some old mining sites still line the Klamath’s banks.

Seeing the massive face of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park from the valley floor is one of those California attractions that is sure to astound; but for an unexpected turn, why not take the family on a run of the Class III -IV white-water of the Merced River? This waterway runs its swift course through the southern part of Yosemite National Park and along an expanse of burly pine forests, jutting rocks, and silky beaches.

If you prefer action-packed paddling from put-in to take-out, try the Tuolumne River in Yosemite, considered by many to be the best California white-water rafting trip. You’ll enter a remote wilderness with tumbling creeks, waterfalls, and glassy pools.

Or instead of seeing Death Valley through the windshield of your car, try biking through the Mojave Desert, reveling in its peacefulness. Stop for a climb to get a red-tailed hawk’s perspective on this mountain-and-basin topography, or pedal across salt flats to the lowest point in the U.S.

American poet Robert Frost once wrote, “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

This year, be sure to make your California tour different.

Browse our current California adventure travel offerings below.

Destinations we visit in Americas

  • British Columbia
  • Falkland Islands
  • Grand Canyon
  • Massachusetts
  • Newfoundland and Labrador
  • North Dakota
  • Nova Scotia
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota

Disney California Adventure: The Complete Guide

adventure california travel

Joshua Sudock / Disneyland Resort

Planning Your Trip

Things to do, what to eat and drink, where to stay, getting there, money saving tips.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

Disney California Adventure Park

The sister park to the original Disneyland, Disney California Adventure opened in 2001 as a celebration of the Golden State. While it still retains some California-centric nods (especially the lovely, retro Buena Vista Street just inside the front gate), it has morphed into a more eclectic collection of lands and attractions that draw on many of Disney’s brands. When it expanded in 2012 and added Cars Land, Disney California Adventure especially embraced the Pixar films, characters, and stories while the 2021 opening of Avengers Campus brought the Marvel universe to the park.

Part of the Disneyland Resort, which also includes Disneyland Park, the Downtown Disney dining, shopping, and entertainment complex, and three on-property hotels, there is much to consider when visiting Mickey and the gang. Which rides and attractions should you experience? What eateries should you check out? Where should you stay? Let’s get to it.

Best Time to Visit : Because so many California locals visit the park, weekdays generally attract fewer visitors than on weekends. The time of year with the least amount of guests (and the lowest ticket and hotel prices) is mid-January to mid-March. It’ll be a bit busier, but still relatively quiet, in September through early November, and mid-April to mid-May.

The peak season coincides with summer school vacations, from late June to early August, as well as Thanksgiving, Easter, and the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the crowds will be greater and the wait times for rides will be longer during the busier times of the year, the park will be open longer and offer more nighttime shows and other presentations.

Sunny California is relatively temperate year-round. Although it is rare (but getting less so), it can be brutally hot in the summer. It can get a bit nippy in December through February, especially at night. Perhaps the best time to visit Disney California Adventure, in terms of weather, is March, April, or May when springtime conditions are typically ideal.

Note that regardless when you plan to visit the parks, you will likely need to make a park reservation in advance. Disneyland introduced the reservation requirement when it reopened after the pandemic in 2021. It appears that the requirement will become permanent.

Getting Around: The compact Disneyland Resort is quite easy to navigate. Unless you plan to explore Southern California, there is no need to have a car. Disney California Adventure is just across the plaza from Disneyland Park and adjacent to Downtown Disney. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel overlooks Disney California Adventure, and hotel guests have their own dedicated entrance into the park. While it is a pleasant walk, visitors should ride in style at least once aboard the historic Disneyland Monorail that travels between Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park and the far end of Downtown Disney near the Disneyland Hotel.

Travel Tip: Guests staying at one of Disney’s three on-property hotels used to be able to access the parks before the general public during the resort’s “Extra Magic Hours” program. Disneyland suspended the program during the pandemic. Before making reservations, check to see whether it has reinstated the benefit.

In fall 2021, the Disneyland Resort replaced its Fastpass and MaxPass ride reservation and line-skipping programs with Disney Genie, Disney Genie+, and Lightning Lane Select. Learn how the digital park planning services work and how they can you help you better enjoy your Disney California Adventure visit.

Among the most popular attractions at Disney California Adventure is Radiator Springs Racers , the tour-de-force E-Ticket ride in Cars Land. It is set amid the spectacular Cadillac Mountain range and Ornament Valley at the end of Route 66 in the meticulously themed area. Try to time your visit to Cars Land at dusk so that you can witness the glorious neon lights that illuminate Radiator Springs as the doo-wop song “Sh-Boom (Life Could Be a Dream)” plays in the background–just like in the original “Cars” movie. For high-speed thrills, head over to Pixar Pier and take a ride on the launched, looping thrill machine, Incredicoaster. There are thrills (and laughs) aplenty also at Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, the faster-than-freefall attraction that was previously known as The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

There are plenty of other highlights throughout the park, including the world’s first flying theater ride, Soarin’ Around the World ; the interactive, video game-like Toy Story Midway Mania ; and the wacky superhero training experience, WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure.

Filled with stirring scenes projected onto water screens, magnificent dancing fountains, lasers, pyrotechnics, and more, World of Color is one of the best nighttime spectaculars at any Disney park.

Younger kids–and really, everybody–should check out Turtle Talk with Crush. Featuring real-time animation and improvisation that is often wildly funny and charming, it’s an under-appreciated gem.

  • Check out other must-see attractions in our picks for the 17 Disneyland Resort rides you can’t miss .
  • If you’re really into thrills, check out the resort’s 13 most screamtastic rides .
  • Disney California Adventure is magical after dark. Check out these tips about ways to enjoy the park at night .

We have more articles for you to peruse, including how to enjoy Disney California Adventure if you hate thrill rides as well as a review of The Little Mermaid Ride . 

Dining in California Adventure

There are plenty of wonderful places to eat, drink, and be Mickey at Disney California Adventure, starting with the Carthay Circle Restaurant . The elegant spot may just offer the best fine dining experience at any U.S. theme park. The Carthay Circle Lounge on the ground floor offers a wide variety of mixed drinks and small plate dishes for sharing. Another great table-service spot is Lamplight Lounge . Featuring an eclectic menu, its whimsical dining room celebrates the artists who create Pixar films.

For quick-service refueling, head over to Flo's V8 Cafe where punny items such as the Ka-Cheeseburger and the Cobb de Ville Salad are on the menu. For quirky fare, consider the Pym Test Kitchen at Avengers Campus. It has ridiculously oversized and undersized dishes such as the Not So Little Chicken Sandwich, which is a humongous chicken breast served on a tiny bun.

Dining in Disneyland

Because the resort is so compact, you could easily leave the park and head across the plaza for a meal at Disneyland (if your ticket allows you to visit more than one park in a day). Among our favorite restaurants in the park is Blue Bayou where you can savor cajun fare as the Pirates of the Caribbean boats float past. Or you could grab a Ronto Wrap at Ronto Roasters in  Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge .

You wouldn't need a two-park ticket to duck out for a meal at Downtown Disney or the resort’s hotels. Good choices there include Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, which specializes in locally sourced, seasonal fare, and Catal Restaurant at Downtown Disney, which serves Mediterranean dishes.

Making a Reservation

Because the full-service restaurants are so popular, advance reservations are all but required. We have compiled all the ways you can make reservations , including online, by phone, and in person. For quick-service restaurants, consider using the resort’s mobile food and beverage ordering service . Your meals will be ready when you arrive at the counter. There are no character dining experiences at Disney California Adventure. But you can break bread with Goofy and others elsewhere in the resort.

Courtesy of Disneyland Resort

You could stay off property and save money at one of the many lodging options in the area . But the resort’s three hotels, especially the Grand Californian and the historic Disneyland Hotel, would allow you to revel in the Disney ambiance 24/7.

While it has been expanded and modernized, the Disneyland Hotel nonetheless maintains a delightfully retro charm. The monorail-themed water slide topped by a replica of Disneyland’s original entrance sign characterizes the hotel’s vintage allure. The Grand Californian, with its towering lobby evocative of a rustic lodge and Arts and Crafts-inspired architecture, offers an elegant alternative. Its full-service spa could help soothe and revitalize you after a long day at the park. The Paradise Pier hotel, which Disney acquired from a third-party operator, is the most pedestrian and affordable of the three properties.

Among the airports near the Disneyland Resort are Los Angeles International (LAX), John Wayne Airport (SNA), Long Beach Airport (LGB), Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Ontario International Airport (ONT), and San Diego International Airport (SAN).

If you're flying into LAX, you can get to Disneyland and California Adventure via public transit, shuttle services, ride-hailing services, and rental car. We break down all the different options in our comparison guide .

  • Consider the time of year. Disney uses variable pricing for its park tickets and charges more to visit during peak seasons such as early summer and around Christmas; conversely, you'll find the lowest ticket prices in February and other low-attendance periods. If you’ll be staying on property, hotel rates are lower during the slower seasons as well.
  • Multi-day tickets cost less per day than single-day tickets. On the other hand, Park Hopper tickets, which allow guests to visit both Disney California Adventure and Disneyland on the same day, cost more than one park per day tickets
  • Check Disneyland’s official site for special deals and offers. The resort often offers money-saving hotel and ticket combo packages and other promotions.
  • If you or somebody in your family is a member of the military or a veteran, you could save money on park tickets and get discounted rates on Disneyland Resort hotels. You can find details on Disneyland’s special offers page .

Mid-January to mid-March is the best time to visit for low prices and small crowds. It's busier, but still quiet from September though early November, and mid-April to mid-May.

Disney California Adventure typically opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m. but hours are subject to change.

Disney California Adventure is located next to Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

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Ultimate california bucket list: 75 things you must do & see.

Putting together a bucket list can be many things. Exciting, imaginative, and sometimes puzzling. While the US is a big and wonderful place filled with a destination for every taste, sometimes it’s best to start small.

Perhaps small isn’t the right word but curating an ultimate bucket list for California is considerably easier than one for the entire country.

Devil's Postpile, ultimate California bucket list

» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco , Los Angeles , Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey , waterfalls in Southern California , and national parks.

» For a preview check out the web story!

Considering California’s vibrant cities , legendary surf spots, captivating mountains, and incredible national parks , as easy as it might appear, deciding what to do and see can still break your brain. That’s where we come in.

We’ve done the heavy lifting, from dipping our toes into the best hot springs in Northern California to scaling the peaks of the ten most incredible hikes in Southern California.

The result? This ultimate California bucket list – 75 things to do and places to see. So let’s jump in, shall we?

» You might be interested in these 15 California Travel Tips for Your First Trip and the 24 Best Cities In California To Visit.

Table of Contents

75 Bucket List Things to Do in California

From the peaks and valleys of Yosemite National Park to the coastline of Big Sur , California is where wanderlust finds its home. Now without further ado, here’s the ultimate bucket list of things to do in California.

1. Big Sur Road Trip

Bixby Bridge

One of the best road trip destinations in the world, the rugged coastline of Big Sur has it all, from stunning coastal views to picturesque redwood forests and tranquil beaches prime for exploration and hiking . If you’re planning a visit, April to November is ideal weather and crowd-wise.

2. Turtle Bay Exploration Park

One of the top things you have to do in California is spending a day adventuring and exploring Turtle Bay, Exploration Park . On-site, you’ll find a wildlife center, museum, botanical garden, restaurants, and the world-famous Sundial Bridge.

3. Burney Falls

Burney Falls

The captivating Burney Falls is situated within Shasta County’s McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. Often included in lists of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, this 129-foot waterfall is one of the top things to see in California. Visit from April to October when the falls are at their most intense.

4. Bodie Ghost Town

Some call Bodie the most famous ghost town in California, and once you visit, you may agree. Before it was a thriving and popular mining town during the gold rush , but since its heyday, it’s been a ghost town for over a decade.

5. Glass Beach

Colorful sea glass pebbles on the beach at Fort Bragg

The north of the Golden State is no stranger to unique places to see in California before you die. One of these is the Glass Beach in Fort Bragg . A memorable part of the craggy coastline, the beach is covered in rainbow-colored pieces of sea glass. The result of decades of pollution — today, it’s a feast for the eyes.

6. Devil’s Slide

Devil's slide trail

What was once a dangerous road that was closed is now an iconic biking and walking trail along the Pacific Coast Highway. Outside Half Moon Bay is the stretch of road known as the Devil’s Slide. Without a doubt one of the most beautiful bike trails in the world; it’s both stunning and exciting.

7. Explore Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park

Although we’ve mentioned some Yosemite highlights, the entire park is more than deserving of being on your California bucket list. The park includes majestic waterfalls, stunning valleys, and many hiking possibilities. One of the best ways to experience the best of the park is a day trip from San Francisco.

Yosemite National Park provides a variety of  lodging and camping.  Official discounted Yosemite National Park lodging ranges from basic tent cabins with nearby toilet facilities to the more luxurious lodging in The  Ahwahnee Hotel  is a distinctive hotel that is the pride of Yosemite National Park.

The park’s natural attractions can be viewed all year round, check here for more information about the seasons and what is best to see at that time in the park.

PLAN YOUR ITINERARY: Use our guides to prepare your entire Yosemite itinerary.

  • 9 Top Attractions to See in Yosemite
  • Here’s our one-day itinerary for Yosemite. Have more time? The Perfect Yosemite 2-day itinerary
  • Check out where to stay in Yosemite , whether you want camping or a hotel.

8. Mammoth Lakes

Skelton Lake

Second to none when it comes to amazing things to do in California is a trip to Mammoth Lakes. This charming ski town in the eastern region of the Sierra Nevada Mountains is an outdoor lovers’ paradise. If you love to ski, head to Mammoth Mountain during winter, or if you’re looking for tranquility, dip into one of the several natural hot springs around town.

9. Devil’s Postpile

Devil's postpile in Mammoth Lake California

Considered a geological wonder, the Devil’s Postpile is said to be over 100,000 years old, and some of its 60-foot tall basalt columns are even older still. Grab your camera because this is Instagram-worthy.

10. Mendocino

A highlight of Northern California, Mendocino brings together a dreamy coastline, schools of dolphins and whales offshore, and amazing weather. It’s long been a favorite spot for celebrities and renowned poets looking for inspiration. Take a walk along Mendocino’s beaches and find out why it’s such an amazing thing to do in California.

11. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park

For one of the best-kept secrets in California, head to Lassen Volcanic National Park . Volcanoes surround the park within a still-active seismic area. Here you can feast your eyes on a few unique natural features, including bubbling mud pits and sulfur vents.

12. Eastern Sierra Natural Hot Spring

Until recently, the Eastern Sierra Natural Hot Springs was somewhat of a well-kept secret among locals, but it’s a trendy spot these days. Combining dramatic and gorgeous views with the relaxing experience of soaking in a geothermal pool, it’s a pretty cool thing to do in California.

13. Lost Coast

Northern California’s coastline is a treasure trove of iconic beaches , and nowhere is this more true than along the Lost Coast . You’ll find numerous viewpoints as you drive the coastal road, and you can easily access Redwood National Park from Humboldt.

14. Point Reyes Lighthouse

Point Reyes Lighthouse

The highlight of the Point Reyes National Seashore , the Point Reyes Lighthouse, provides some of the most breathtaking views you’ll find. You’ll have to tackle the Tomales Point Trail to reach the lighthouse, but the reward is worth the effort.

If you like lighthouses visit some of these incredible lighthouses in California to visit.

15. The Cypress Tree Tunnel

Cypress Tree Tunnel

Conveniently enough, the majestic Cypress Tree Tunnel is a 20-minute drive from Point Reyes . Fit for any buzzworthy Instagram feed, photos of this iconic landmark are everywhere. Walking amongst the covering of the Cyprus grove is a magical experience.

16. Hike Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon

Amongst the many hiking trails of California, Fern Canyon stands out as one of the best things to do in Northern California if your feet are itching. Appearing almost out of place, the lush landscapes and streams are so stunning the canyon was used in the filming of Jurassic Park .

17. Fannette Island Kayaking

adventure california travel

The amazing Lake Tahoe region brims with star attractions that could quickly fill any bucket list for California. One of its gems is the tiny Fannette Island which sits inside Emerald Bay. Kayaking across its pristine waters is as serene as you could get.

Tip: Add a trip to Fannette Island to this list of beautiful mountain town destinations for a hidden-gem adventure.

18. Avenue of Giants

For another stretch of road bound to blow your mind, the Avenue of Giants is a picturesque 31-mile part of State Route 254 in Northern California. Surrounded on both sides by gigantic and decades-old redwood trees, it rivals Big Sur for almost otherworldly beauty and an easy adventure to do in California.

19. Go Snowshoeing to Fallen Leaf Lake

Fallen leaf lake

The collection of icy, frozen lakes and streams is a mesmerizing part of Lake Tahoe during winter . With fewer crowds, it’s the perfect time to put on snowshoes and head out on the Fallen Leaf trail across the frozen lake.

20. Stargaze at Glacier Point

Glacier Point

Stargazing at Glacier Point in Yosemite is a no-brainer bucket list thing to do in California. From Glacier Point, the night dazzles with a display of the cosmos over Half Dome. This is a must for avid astronomers due to the very low amount of nearby light interference.

21. Wine Tasting in Sonoma & Napa

Stephan & Walker Winery

You can’t plan an adventure in California without indulging in some of (if not the best) wines in the world. The Northern California vineyards of Sonoma and Napa are world-renowned wine regions sitting beside each other.

For high-end tastings, head to Napa and then Sonoma for a more laid-back experience. Or better yet, do both in a California winery tour covering the best wineries.

22. Dinner at the French Laundry

One of the best restaurants in California, The French Laundry in Yountville is a foodie paradise. Helmed by renowned chef Thomas Keller , this three-Michelin-starred restaurant is fine dining at its best. Most dishes also come with a curated wine pairing, so if you’re eager to treat your tastebuds, this is the place to do it.

23. Calistoga Mud Bath

The quiet and relaxed city of Calistoga is somewhat of a hidden gem. Here, you’ll find one of the best things about California: the Calistoga mud bath spa treatments. Mixing mineral-rich hot spring waters with volcanic ash, you can get these treatments at numerous spas in the city, with Indian Springs being the most famous.

24. Bioluminescent Kayaking in Tomales

Easily an activity that will stay in your memories forever is heading out onto the waters of Tomales on a bioluminescent kayak tour . At night during certain times of the year, the waters come alive in hues of green and blue as the shoreline is lit up by living organisms drifting about.

25. Climb Mt Whitney

Mt Whitney

The official highest point of elevation in the lower 48 states of the US, Mount Whitney, reaches an imposing height of 14,000 feet. Its summit has been an inviting challenge to many looking for adventure in California. It’s a strenuous hike even for expert hikers, but it’s undoubtedly a bucket list item.

26. Oldest Tree in the World

Bristlecone Pine

You’ll find the Ancient Bristlecone Forest just outside of Big Pine. What makes this spot so unique as an unmissable thing to see in California? Well, here stands the oldest living tree in the world, amongst a valley of mangled pine trees. It’s a sight unlike anything else and a photography paradise for nature lovers.

27. General Sherman Sequoia

The giant Sequoia trees of Sequoia National Park tower above create a skyline of lush greenery, and amongst them, General Sherman is the standout. It peaks at 275 feet tall and has a 100-foot wide trunk at its base. Photos with this icon are a top thing to do in California.

28. Camping on Angel Island

Angel Island San Francisco

Angel Island, off the San Francisco Bay, is a must-visit for those who yearn for the outdoors. The hikes to campsites and the sites themselves provide unparalleled views of the city’s skyline, with the serenity of the forest as a perfect backdrop.

The only access to the island is either by private boat or public ferry. From San Francisco you can take the Golden Gate Ferry and from Tiburon you can take the Tiburon/Angel Island Ferry Service .

29. Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge

Easily equal to the Hollywood Sign when it comes to artificial attractions, visiting the Golden Gate Bridge is one of those things you must do in California. Whether you decide to walk across it or indulge in a captivating sunset over it from a distance, it’s a surefire hit. Catch the setting sun from either Moore Pier or Battery Point.

Try this tour: San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito Guided Bike Tour

30. Ferry Plaza Farmers Market

San Francisco’s Ferry Building is the home ground of the enticing Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. Each day of the week, you’ll find a large variety of artisanal food, shops, markets, and restaurants inside prime for exploring. And the open-air farmers market takes center stage for three days every week outside the building.

31. San Francisco’s Chinatown

Chinatown San Francisco

San Francisco boasts quite a few neighborhoods worth your bucket list, but one stands out. Chinatown, just south of North Beach, is the oldest one of its kind in North America. You can visit ornate temples for a cultural trip or indulge in excellent traditional Chinese food.

Try this tour: Chinatown Culinary Walking Tour

32. Lombard Street

Lombard Street in San Francisco

While you’re in San Francisco , head to Lombard Street. Unofficially it is said to be the most crooked street in the world, with its eight sharp turns winding down a very short hill. Drive down the iconic road between Hyde and Leavensworth, or take a stroll to admire the stunning houses surrounding it.

33. Seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco

The famous Fisherman’s Wharf district in San Francisco sits along the waterfront; thus, you can expect numerous fantastic seafood eateries. Indulge in everything from cioppino, chowder, and crab cakes, then explore other wharf areas, such as Pier 39.

34. Alcatraz Prison

Alcatraz Lighthouse

A place as famous as the individuals imprisoned within its walls, Alcatraz Prison, is one of those places you have to add to any bucket list. Sitting on a rocky island with the same name in San Francisco Bay, you can book an Alcatraz Bay cruise that takes you inside the prison.

35. Giants Game at Oracle Park

Baseball is as American as it gets, and one of the most celebrated teams in the league is the San Francisco Giants. You don’t need to be a fan to enjoy the electric atmosphere and fun times that await when you catch a game at their home stadium.

36. San Jose Municipal Rose Gardens

San Jose Municipal Rose Garden

If you’re a nature lover, heading out to San Jose should be on your list of things to do in California. Here you’ll find the San Jose Municipal Rose Gardens, where a staggering 200 varieties of roses await. With blooms occurring throughout the year, visit during May for a super bloom.

37. Alabama Hills

If you’re planning a spring or fall trip to California, heading out into the Alabama Hills is a must. The hills are famous for their many natural arches spread across their canyons and cliffs. While most don’t have marked trails, you can scramble over the boulders and rocks.

38. Santa Cruz Boardwalk

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

An iconic part of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park, the Giant Dipper is one of the world’s oldest wooden coasters. It’s also one of the world’s most popular, and hurtling along its twists and turns at 55 miles per hour is one of the coolest things to do in California.

Santa Cruz is a charming coastal town in California, known for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. While you are there check out the many wineries , breweries , and fun things to do that Santa Cruz has to offer.

39. Elephant Seals of Año Nuevo State Park

An excursion to the Año Nuevo State Park is a truly unique thing in California. This sanctuary for a massive elephant seal population offers an almost safari-like experience as you interact with these friendly beasts in their natural habitat.

Read more: If you’re planning a summer vacation, check out these 12 epic California road trip routes that don’t require you to fly anywhere.

40. Whale Watching in Monterey Bay

ocean in Pacific Grove

The Monterey Peninsula is famous for its legendary outdoor attractions and beautiful beaches . But one of the best things to do is visit Monterey Bay and go whale watching. With sightings possible year-round thanks to the deep submarine canyon in the bay, booking a whale-watching tour needs to be on your next trip itinerary.

41. Moaning Cavern

Exploring California takes on new life within the moaning cavern of Central California. This cavern is famed for being deep enough that the Statue of Liberty could fit inside. For those afraid of heights, this might be one to skip. For everyone else, rappelling down into its pits is a must.

42. Winchester Mystery House

Winchester Mystery House

A stunning Victorian-style mansion that used to be the personal residence of Sarah Winchester is today a popular attraction for those keen on ghost stories. Some come for its architecture, while others take a Winchester Mystery House tour to spot a ghost or two.

43. Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle

One of the most spectacular mansions in the world, Hearst Castle overlooks the Pacific Ocean and attracts more than 750,000 visitors a year. This historic mansion was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and an impressive collection of art and antiques. Visit the castle to see its impressive interiors and exteriors, and you might even spot a roaming zebra from the on-site zoo.

Just 3 miles away, San Simeon is a town located on the Pacific coast of California. It’s situated in San Luis Obispo County, roughly halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. It is a charming town known for its laidback nature and definitely worth a visit.

44. Island Hop the Channel Islands

Channel Islands

One of the least visited national parks in the US, the Channel Islands, offers extraordinary encounters with unique fauna and flora. These islands are breathtaking places to hike, kayak, and for wildlife spotting.

The Channel Islands consist of five islands:  Anacapa , Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, San Miguel, and  Santa Rosa . You can get to most of them by ferry from Ventura Harbor. The ferry runs year round on a variable schedule, 5-7 days per week and it takes about 1 hour to get to the nearest islands, Anacapa and Santa Cruz.

45. Visit California Missions

Mission San Juan Bautista

Along the coastline of California, you’ll find 21 Spanish Missions, and they offer fantastic insights into Californian life hundreds of years ago. They hold some of the oldest buildings in the state, and the most famous, The Santa Barbara Mission, boasts the best-kept architecture of them all.

The one above is the Old Mission in San Juan Bautista . The 15th Spanish-era mission sits within the San Juan Bautista State Historic Park.

46. Super Bloom in Death Valley

Yes, Death Valley National Park is a desolate and harsh environment where few things survive. But, oddly enough, this is the site of one of Mother Nature’s grandest displays. Once every decade, the entire valley and some mountains erupt with thousands of wildflowers in shades of yellow, pink, and purple. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

47. Badwater Basin

Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park

Officially the lowest point in the Northern Hemisphere, Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park, sits at 282 feet below sea level. Walking the salt flats of the basin, which spans roughly 200 square miles, is one of the coolest things to do in California.

48. Death Valley Racetrack

Ask any frequent visitor to Death Valley National Park what attraction they’d recommend as the one thing to see in the park before you die. Their answer might puzzle you, but chances are they’d tell you to see the floating rocks of the infamous Death Valley Racetrack. The stones seem to levitate thanks to a mineral reaction between water, ice, and wind.

49. Caves of Pinnacles National Park

If you love cave exploration, one of the best experiences in California for this lies in the two cavern systems of Pinnacles National Park. Beyond its impressive underground landscape, above ground, you’ll also find crazy rock formations due to its volcanic past.

50. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua tree

Joshua Tree National Park is overdrawn with agave trees, commonly called Joshua Trees, which you’ll find throughout. Beyond that, the park offers numerous hiking trails , odd rock formations such as Skull Rock, and prime stargazing opportunities. Read here for the best times to visit, and if you are up for it check out these gorgeous glamping spots .

51. Skiing at Big Bear Lake

big bear lake

The charming mountain town of Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains is one of the best places to see in California. And during winter, there’s no better place to go skiing, than at either Snow Summit or Bear Mountain, regardless of your skiing ability.

52. Venice Beach

Venice beach boardwalk

The best of California’s coastal fun is found on the famous Venice Beach . Its iconic status is thanks to its canals, the well-known Muscle Beach outdoor gym, legendary skatepark, and its boardwalk. Besides, it’s the ideal place to soak up the Californian sun or even take a surfing lesson.

53. Disneyland

Disneyland band in front of the train station with Disney characters dancing.

It’s known as the happiest place on Earth, and no California to-do list would be complete without a trip to Disneyland . Experience the magic of everything Disney has at the iconic park, along with thrilling rides, your favorite Disney characters, and fun Disney foods .

Tip: See how many days you need at Disney and a list of 40 Essential Disney tips . When you are ready to plan your trip check out the hotels within walking distance , the airports near Disneyland , and read all about Disneyland parking .

54. California Adventure

Disney California Adventure

Located right next to Disneyland is Disney’s California Adventure Park . Since it’s so close, you can visit both in one trip – spend a day or two in each park. We love the food at California Adventure and find that the rides and experience is so much different from Disney.

Extra: Which park is better? Disneyland or California Adventure?

55. Hike the Hollywood Sign

Hollywood Sign

As iconic as they come, the Hollywood Sign is an irreplaceable part of LA. And as far as once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles go, hiking the short scenic trail to the sign is a must. You’ll get bragging rights and plenty of chances for epic photos, and as touristy as it might be, you shouldn’t skip it.

Try this tour: The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles–FREE WATERS and PHOTOS

56. Victoria Beach Tower

Sitting in one of the many rave-worthy coves in Laguna Beach, namely Victoria Beach, is the mysterious Pirate Tower. This historic tower, built directly into a cove wall, is visually striking. The scene of the tower set amongst azure waters, white sand, and jagged cliffs is any photographer’s dream.

57. Scuba Dive at Catalina Island

Catalina Island

One of the eight Channel Islands of California, Catalina is the perfect spot for an island getaway. With it being easily reached via ferries from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point , going on a scuba trip to the island is a must. Dive with an array of colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs, or snorkel, swim, and kayak your way around the island.

58. Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica

Paying a visit to the Santa Monica Pier is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in California. The pier is famous for its small amusement park and solar-paneled Ferris Wheel. Don’t skip its other highlights, which include an aquarium and arcade.

59. Surfing at Huntington Beach

Skipping out on the epic surfing options in California would be crazy. So if you’re eager to hit the waves, the perfect place to go is Huntington Beach. Here eight and a half miles of yellow sand stretch along the water’s edge, and you don’t need to be the best to enjoy surfing here.

60. Griffith Observatory

griffith observatory

Another of LA’s iconic landmarks, Griffith Observatory, is one of the best places to see in California. Inside you’ll find many exhibits focused on astronomy and our space exploration history. It also offers some of the best views of downtown LA and the Hollywood Sign and features numerous hiking trails in the mountains around it.

Try this tour: Private Tour of Griffith Observatory

61. Food Truck Tour of LA

Considered one of the world’s fusion food capitals, Los Angeles is a diverse mix of culture and cuisine. With access to amazing produce and the perfect urban environment, food trucks are a unique part of LA life. The best way to indulge is on a Downtown LA food tour for everything from Korean tacos to sushi burritos.

62. Concert at The Hollywood Bowl

A concert at The Hollywood Bowl

A worthy entry to your Los Angeles bucket list is attending a concert at the Hollywood Bowl amphitheater. In operation for nearly a century, it’s a world-renowned stage on which some of the most prominent musicians and bands have and continue to perform. Check here for the upcoming schedule of events.

63. Watch a Lakers Game at Crypto Arena

Crypto Arena

Before leaving Los Angeles, be sure to check the game schedule at the Staples Center. During basketball season, catching a Lakers game in their home stadium will thrill even those who aren’t fans. Check their schedule here .

64. Rodeo Drive

A street sign for Rodeo Dr.

A visit to Beverly Hills is already worth your bucket list, but going shopping or just window-shopping on Rodeo Drive is an absolute must. With numerous stores and boutique retailers, it’s also just a fun place to people watch.

Extra: See our 2-day itinerary for Los Angeles .

65. Aquarium of the Pacific

A genuine top-tier attraction in Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific houses more than 12,000 species and showcases over 100 exhibits. With thousands of sea creatures to see, get your entry ticket in advance as the queues can be long.

66. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs aerial tramway

When you’re in Palm Springs, book your ticket and hop on the largest rotating tram car in the world. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway heads up along the Chino Canyon, and once at the summit, you’ll have views of the Coachella Valley and even the Salton Sea.

67. San Diego Breweries

stone brewing

Home to some of the best breweries for tantalizing craft beers in California, San Diego offers the perfect playground for pub crawling. Most are located within the Gaslamp Quarter, where you can visit breweries such as Belching Beaver, Green Flash, Mikkeller, and Modern Times.

Tip: Check out these epic weekend getaways from San Diego while in the city.

68. California State Capitol Buildings

California State Capital Building in Sacramento

No trip to Sacramento would be complete without a visit to the California State Capitol. A significant part of the state’s history, you can explore the museum here and take in some incredible exhibits. These include historic rooms, stunning murals, portraits, and statues.

69. Borrego Springs

The small desert town of Borrego Springs sits within a state park, and visitors come for many reasons. But its most famous highlight is the collection of sculptures that depict prehistoric animals and creatures from fantasy, such as dragons, some even scaled to size.

70. La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove Beach

Surrounded by rugged cliffs, this scenic cove is one of the prettiest beach areas near San Diego. Whether you just walk along the path far above or you head down to the sand to explore the caves, you’re sure to see sea lions relaxing on the rocks. You can also go snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving there.

71. Explore Balboa Park

San Diego

A fantastic place to visit while you’re in San Diego, Balboa Park, is where you can find both culture and nature. With acres of sprawling gardens and forests meeting stunning historical buildings and even 20 museums, it’s well worth a visit.

Try this tour: Balboa Park Hidden Gems Tour

72. LEGOLAND California

A man made out of legos playing the clarinet

Inspired by the Lego toy brand, the colossal LEGOLAND California Resort offers 60 rides and attractions based on Lego designs. There’s also a water park filled with various watersports and an aquarium fit for an entire day’s fun.

73. San Diego Zoo

Sitting with Balboa Park, the world-famous San Diego Zoo, is a must-add to any California things to do and see list. Containing animals from over 650 species and subspecies, all housed in open-air, cageless habitats, visiting is a truly unique experience. Best to book an entry ticket in advance.

74. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Sunset cliffs

If the name didn’t give it away already, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park in San Diego is where a sunset takes on a breathtaking appeal. The jagged cliffs of the 68-acre park provide overlooks of the Pacific Ocean with a setting sun in hues of pink year-round.

75. Salvation Mountain

Within Imperial City, you’ll find striking hillside artwork created by Leonard Knight. Called Salvation Mountain as a tribute to God, it features murals, painted areas of bricks, windows, as well as tires. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the creative beauty of this attraction.

The Ultimate California Bucket List

And that’s a wrap on the ultimate California bucket list. While the Golden State holds much more than mentioned here, these 75 attractions and activities are the best of the best. Now the only thing left for you to do is decide which to do and when and where to go next.

Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again. FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more California travel inspiration and tips!

Laura in California

Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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FYI, Green Flash in San Diego has been closed for some time.

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California Family Travel

By Gwen Kleist · January 11, 2023

Disney California Adventure Guide 2024

Last updated on March 1st, 2024 at 04:33 pm

Looking for a quick guide to Disney California Adventure Park at the Disneyland Resort?

How could a website called “California Family Travel” possibly not cover a family theme park celebrating the state of California? It just wouldn’t be right. And while many people have asked is California Adventure work visiting, I will always advocate for this gem of a park!

My family has visited many times – I mean, we’re probably talking triple digits. So I am excited to share with you this guide to Disney California Adventure to give you a solid overview to help plan your visit.

Here are all the details on rides, food, entertainment and tips to get the most out of your day at this Disneyland theme park!

adventure california travel

Table of Contents

Disney California Adventure Overview

Entire books have been written about how to plan a trip to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, but that can be overwhelming!

Sometimes all you need is an overview to get your bearings and decide what you definitely don’t want to miss. That is exactly what this quick guide to California Adventure is intended to provide!

When Disney California Adventure had its official park opening in 2001, the theme park was all about the California experience. Disney California Adventure Park was designed to give visitors a taste of California’s rich history and high points. You can ride a 1920s Red Car Trolley through Hollywood Land, visit a seaside amusement park, or ride the rapids through a gold mining wilderness.

At the time, there was barely a trace of the Pixar or Disney characters we all know and love.

Grizzly River Run

Over the past 20 years, DCA has added new lands, rethemed old ones, and added more Disney magic overall. Today, California Adventure still celebrates the beauty, style and flavors of California, but there is a healthy dose of Disney, Pixar and now Marvel characters and fun.

Disney California Adventure Rides List

Ready to get into the nitty-gritty of this Disney California Adventure guide? Let’s start by getting a lay of the lands and the rides and attractions in each area.

DCA is comprised of eight distinct areas. If you enter the park and hang a left to circle the theme park clockwise, the lands are:

Buena Vista Street

  • Hollywood Land

Avengers Campus

San fransokyo square, paradise gardens park, grizzly peak.

Let’s take a trip around the park to see what there is to do in each land! Here’s a complete California Adventure rides list.

The heart of Disney California Adventure!

Red Car Trolleys

  • Minimum Height:  None
  • Attraction Type: Trolley Ride
  • Lightening Lane Available: No
  • Single Rider Available: No

Hop aboard a charming vintage trolley for a scenic ride through Buena Vista Street and Hollywood Land. The Red Car Trolleys are modeled after the Pacific Electric Railway trolleys that crisscrossed the Los Angeles area from 1887 until 1961, with more than 1,000 miles of active track.

The Red Car Trolleys run continuously and stop at four locations in DCA. You can hop on and off anywhere along the line.

Red Car Trolley at Disney California Adventure Park

Hollywood Land

Take a stroll through the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!

  • Attraction Type: Slow Ride
  • Lightening Lane Available: Yes

Like The Little Mermaid, Monsters, Inc. is a kid-friendly, slow-moving ride retelling the story of the movie for which it is named.

Monsters Inc at DCA

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

  • Attraction Type: Screen Show

Mickey’s PhilharMagic, a 12-minute 3D show featuring classic Disney music.

Hyperion Theater

  • Attraction Type: Live Show

The Hyperion Theater can seat up to 1,984 people and features live stage shows (most recently “Rogers: The Musical”) throughout the year.

adventure california travel

Animation Theatre

  • Attraction Type: Interactive Activities

The Animation Theatre building in Hollywood Land houses three unique and interactive attractions: Animation Academy, Sorcerer’s Workshop and Turtle Talk with Crush.

Disney Junior Dance Party

  • Attraction Type: Interactive Show

Sing, dance, catch bubbles and have fun at this lively show featuring popular characters from the Disney Channel’s line-up.

The newest addition to DCA, Avengers Campus opened on June 4, 2021. It is a fully immersive land that’s fun for all ages, with rides that let you sling webs with Spider-Man and dining, attractions and character spottings that will have you living among Super Heroes.

Disney California Adventure Avengers Campus

WEB SLINGERS: A Spiderman Adventure

  • Attraction Type: Interactive Ride
  • Single Rider Available: Yes

Hop aboard a WEB Slinger vehicle and wrangle rogue Spider-Bots during this mayhem-filled mission at Avengers Campus!

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

  • Minimum Height:  40”
  • Attraction Type:  Thrill Ride with Drops

Formerly the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Guardians of the Galaxy Mission: BREAKOUT! is a thrilling drop ride with a high-energy Guardians of the Galaxy story line.

Guardians of the Galaxy

Inspired by the 2006 Pixar Animations Studios film  Cars , Cars Land at Disney California Adventure brings the town of Radiator Springs to life. It is home to three fun rides, and it is my favorite area of the park!

Radiator Springs Racers

  • Attraction Type: Thrill Ride

Join the characters from Cars and zoom through Radiator Springs in a convertible. Radiator Springs Racers is easily one of the best rides at the Disneyland Resort, combining a gorgeous outdoor setting, entertaining indoor dark ride, and thrilling fast finish.

Radiator Springs Racers

Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters

  • Minimum Height:  32”
  • Attraction Type: Spinning Ride

Guests ride in the cars, which whirl and spin to songs such as Mambo Italiano. Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters uses a trackless vehicle system, meaning that the cars are independent of each other as they traverse the dance floor.

adventure california travel

Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree

This ride is a swinging, spinning, tractor-pulling hoedown hosted by Mater. Baby tractors travel in overlapping figure eight patterns along interlocking turntables. Riders sit in trailers attached to the baby tractors.

Mater's Junkyard Jamboree

San Fransokyo Square officially opened on August 31, 2023 – featuring sights, shops, and cuisine from the industrious city in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Big Hero 6.”

This reimagined area of Disney California Adventure Park is a fictional mash-up of two iconic cities – San Francisco and Tokyo. The most iconic landmark of the area is the 54-foot-tall San Fransokyo Gate Bridge

San Fransokyo Square at Disney California Adventure Park

The Bakery Tour

  • Minimum Height:   None
  • Attraction Type: Walk-Through Tour

Hosted by San Francisco’s Boudin Bakery, this attraction is a walk-through tour that demonstrates step-by-step how sourdough bread is made! You’ll even get a tasty sample.

adventure california travel

This section of the park is awesome for people who love classic Disney Pixar movies!

Remember when I said Disney California Adventure opened with very little “Disney” and then added some later? A big part of that happened when the original Paradise Pier was renamed Pixar Pier. All of the existing rides, shops and restaurants got a Pixar makeover, and some new ones were added, too! Although Pixar Pier did not officially open until 2018, the transformation began with Toy Story Mania in 2008.

Toy Story Midway Mania!

  • Attraction Type: Slow Interactive Ride

Toy Story Mania is an interactive game where you ride through five Toy Story-themed carnival games, using your cannon to shoot and score points. This ride can get competitive, but it sure is fun!

Jessie’s Critter Carousel

  • Attraction Type: Carousel

Jessie’s Critter Carousel is a standard carousel for kids. The design is a reimagineering of the original King Triton’s Carousel of the Sea.

adventure california travel

The Incredicoaster

  • Minimum Height:  48”

Originally “California Screamin,” this reimagined roller coaster reopened in 2018 with a new story line based on the Disney Pixar film, The Incredibles. It is the only coaster that goes upside down at the Disneyland Resort, and one of the best Thrill Rides at Disney California Adventure .

adventure california travel

Pixar Pal-A-Round

  • Attraction Type: Ferris Wheel

“Pixar Pal-A-Round” is the iconic Ferris wheel at Disney California Adventure. There are two versions to choose from: a traditional non-swinging car, or a swinging car for a little extra thrill.

Disneyland Pixar Pier

Emotional Whirlwind

  • Attraction Type: Swing Ride

Emotional Whirlwind is the newest ride at Disney California Adventure, opened in 2019. If you ever rode Flik’s Flyers when A Bug’s Land was still around, then you know what to expect on the Emotional Whirlwind, based on the Pixar movie Inside Out. It is a swing ride for all ages.

Emotional Whirlwind at DCA

Paradise Gardens Park did not even exist until Pixar Pier was born, when the original Paradise Pier area was split into two lands.

The Little Mermaid

  • Attraction Type:   Slow Ride

Much like the Haunted Mansion’s “doom buggies,” riders hop in clam shell vehicles for this ride. The ride tells the story of The Little Mermaid, basically recapping the movie in a few relaxing, air-conditioned minutes.

Golden Zephyr

Riders board suspended rocket ships and swing in circles. A fun thrill ride for little kids, as there is no height restriction on this one.

Goofy’s Sky School

  •   Minimum Height:  42”
  • Attraction Type: Mid-Thrill Ride

Goofy’s Sky School is a small coaster, but it packs a lot of punch!

Goofys Sky School

Jumpin’ Jellyfish

  • Attraction Type: Mid-Thrill Ride with Slow Drops

Jumpin’ Jellyfish is a cute drop ride perfect for kids.

Silly Symphony Swings

Silly Symphony Swings is a traditional swing ride. The best part is the classical music and great views of the lake and park you can take in as you’re swinging around in circles.

Grizzly Peak celebrates California’s wild side, conjuring up the spirit of Yosemite and Muir Woods. If you are lucky enough to be staying at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, you will enter the park directly into Grizzly Peak.

Grizzly River Run

  • Minimum Height: 42”
  • Attraction Type: River Rapids Thrill Ride

Grizzly River Run is a roaring rapids raft ride. You WILL get wet!

Grizzly River Rapids

  • Minimum Height: 40”
  • Attraction Type: Motion Simulator Thrill Ride

Soarin’ takes you on a simulated hang-gliding adventure featuring real scenes from around the world. This ride was previously Soarin’ Over California, before it was updated to match its counterpart at Walt Disney World’s Epcot theme park in Florida.

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail

  • Minimum Height: None
  • Attraction Type: Play Area with Slides, Rope Course and Zip Lines

The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail is a fun area where kids can run around, climb and explore. This is a great spot to let kids expel some extra energy!

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail

California Adventure Food

Food, glorious food!

Disney California Adventure is known for its wonderful food. In fact, the park hosts two major food-themed events – the California Adventure Food and Wine Festival in the spring and the Festive Foods Marketplace during the holiday season. But before we get into those special events, let’s talk about the day-to-day food offerings and Disney California restaurants.

You’ll find a number of options in every section of the park – from fancy restaurants with an adult vibe to fun, kid-friendly quick service spots.

Our favorite restaurant at all of California Adventure is Flo’s V8 Café. Reminiscent of the classic roadside diners that dotted the original Route 66, Flo’s is a quick-service dining location open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Disneyland Cars Land Flos

Flo’s kitschy atmosphere and patio tables overlooking scenic Monument Valley and Radiator Springs Racers make this a memorable location to grab a meal. Young kids will love the Cars theming, and adults will appreciate the cafe’s retro feel.

Here is a list of restaurants and places to grab snacks in every land at Disney California Adventure.

  • Carthay Circle Lounge
  • Carthay Circle Restaurant
  • Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream
  • Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe
  • Mortimers Market
  • Award Wieners
  • Fairfax Market
  • Studio Catering Co.

Award Wieners at Disney California Adventure

  • Pym Test Kitchen
  • Pym Tasting Lab
  • Shawarma Palace
  • Terran Treats
  • Cozy Cone Motel
  • Fillmore’s Taste-In
  • Flo’s V-8 Cafe

adventure california travel

Like its predecessor Pacific Wharf, at its heart San Fransokyo Square is a place to grab a meal! Here are the eateries you’ll find here:

  • Aunt Cass Café 
  • Port of San Fransokyo Cervecería
  • Lucky Fortune Cookery
  • Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill 
  • Rita’s Turbine Blenders 
  • Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop 
  • Cappuccino Cart

Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in the new San Frantokyo Square at DCA.

  • Lamplight Lounge
  • Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats
  • Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff Confectionery
  • Jack Jack Cookie Num Nums
  • Poultry Palace
  • Senor Buzz Churro

Disney California Adventure Lamplight Lounge

  • Bayside Brews
  • Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta
  • Paradise Garden Grill
  • Corn Dog Castle
  • Wine Country Trattoria

Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta Disney California Adventure

  • Smokejumpers Grill
  • Refreshment Point

Smokejumper Grill

California Adventure Alcohol

Can you buy alcoholic drinks at Disneyland California Adventure? Yes, you can!

Disney California Adventure offers many options for enjoying an adult beverage. In fact, DCA has some of the best alcoholic drinks at Disneyland Resort. Here is an overview of our favorite places to order alcohol at California Adventure.

► Click here to read our complete guide to the best spots for adult beverages at the Disneyland Resort .

Located on Buena Vista Street near the entrance to the park,  Carthay Circle Lounge  is a sophisticated spot to enjoy signature cocktails, craft beers and wine. Pair your Disney drink with one of the many delicious and unique bar snacks on the menu.

Avenger’s Campus

For beer and cocktails with a Super Hero’s twist, visit  Pym Tasting Lab. This lively outdoor bar features innovative cocktails with names such as Molecular Meltdown and X-Periment. They also offer soft drinks, wine, snacks, and a Pint-Sized Mini Beer Flight perfect for sharing.

Pym Tasting Lab

With numerous places to choose from in this Big Hero 6-themed dining area, you’re covered. Here’s where you can find a cold one!

  • Port of San Fransokyo Cervecería  – This new location draws inspiration from its tri-cultural influences with signage in English, Japanese and Spanish. An inviting beer garden makes a relaxing setting for guests to enjoy snacks and those 21 and older to sip on a selection of alcoholic beverages.  
  • Lucky Fortune Cookery  –   Foodies of all ages can choose from a delicious menu of dishes and beverages with Japanese, Vietnamese and Korean influences.  
  • Rita’s Turbine Blenders  –   Featuring margaritas and icy beverages, this refreshment stand is named after the repair technician who maintains the floating wind turbine, resembling a giant koi fish, that sits atop the structure.   

adventure california travel

Located near the Silly Symphony Swings, Bayside Brews is one of the best spots to buy beer at Disneyland! Choose from six craft beers on tap and fresh-baked soft pretzels to enjoy along the waterfront.

Lamplight Lounge  at the foot of Pixar Pier offers an array of tasty food, draft beers and one-of-a-kind signature Disneyland cocktails with a Pixar twist.

California Adventure Entertainment

In addition to the rides, Disney California Adventure offers top notch entertainment! Here’s a round-up of entertainment offerings at Disney California Adventure.

Street Entertainment

Disney California Adventure features awesome street performers and atmosphere entertainment throughout the park, including the Grammy award-winning Mariachi Divas, Citizens of Buena Vista Street, Five & Dime, Warriors of Wakanda, and Avengers Assemble!

adventure california travel

Character Greetings

If you have little kids, meeting their favorite Disney and Pixar characters likely is at the top of your list. Luckily, Disney California Adventure has numerous spots where you can meet the characters. Check your Disneyland app (more on that later) or guide for times and exact locations to meet these characters:

  • Buena Vista Street – Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck
  • Grizzly Peak – Chip and Dale
  • Pixar Pier – The Incredibles, Woody, Buzz and Jessie
  • Cars Land – Mater, Lightening McQueen and Red
  • Avengers Campus – Spiderman and all your favorite Super Heroes

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World of Color

World of Color is a 25-minute nighttime water and light show over Paradise Bay. Jets of water shoot into the air (1,200 fountains to be exact!) and animation is projected on water screens. Lasers electrify the night and perfectly timed pyrotechnics explode in a blaze of brilliant color. Scenes and music from Disney and Pixar films are projected onto a grand fountain spraying 19,000-square-feet of water.

At the Oogie Boogie Bash during Halloween Time at Disneyland , and during the holiday season, special versions of the show are performed.

adventure california travel

Parades at DCA

Disney California Adventure is home to many parades throughout the year. Many are temporary and only last a few weeks. Some family favorites include  Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, scheduled to run from January 20 to February 15, 2023 and the Frightfully Fun Parade, which returns fall 2023 exclusively at Oogie Boogie Bash.

Paradise Garden Bandstand

Enjoy lunch or dinner and a show at the Paradise Garden Bandstand. A rotating lineup of musical acts perform daily. Check Disneyland’s Entertainment Schedule for upcoming performances.

Plaza de la Familia

Experience Plaza de la Familia in Paradise Gardens every fall. This immersive celebration honors the spirit of Dia de los Muertos, with entertainment, festive foods, crafts and interactive experiences.

adventure california travel

Disney Festival of Holidays at DCA

Festival of Holidays is a seasonal celebration of diverse cultural festivities with music, food and fun. It takes place every holiday season from November through early January at Disney California Adventure Park.

Take in the sights and sounds of all the holidays—including Christmas, Navidad, Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa and Three Kings’ Day—that make the season bright through diverse festivities and beloved seasonal traditions.

► Click here to check out our detailed Guide to Disneyland Christmas .

This is also the time of year you’ll find the Festive Foods Marketplace and Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure.

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Disney California Adventure Map

Here is a map of Disney California Adventure to help orient you to the different lands and what is available in each area of the park.

Disney California Adventure Map 2023

Stroller & Locker Rentals at DCA

Disneyland and Disney California Adventure share a stroller rental facility. It is located in the esplanade right outside the parks. This is great because you can use the same strolled all day, even if you are park hopping.

Strollers are available for $15 per day for one stroller or $25 per day for two strollers.

Lockers are located right inside the main entrance to Disney California Adventure on Buena Vista Street. You can choose from a variety of sizes from Small to Jumbo, and rentals include unlimited access throughout the day.

adventure california travel

Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Day at California Adventure

Though it is packed with things to do, California Adventure is smaller than Disneyland Park and typically closes earlier. A solid game plan is essential to getting the most out of your day! Here are some tips to help you maximize your time at the park.

Arrive Early to the Parks

Hands-down, the absolute best advice to beat the rush at Disneyland is to arrive early. The crowds are lightest at opening time. Arrive 15-30 minutes before the parks open to take advantage of lighter crowds.

Download the Disneyland App

Download the Disneyland app so you’ll be able to check wait times in real time. The app will give you an overview of posted and predicted wait times for all the rides at both Disneyland Park and Disney’s California Adventure. Otherwise, you have to do it old school — checking the Tip Board on Main Street or just showing up at a ride, only to find long wait times.

The app will also allow you to access your tickets and park reservations, use Genie Plus, mobile food ordering, and much more.

Take Advantage of Single Rider Lines

If your group doesn’t mind being separated for the ride itself (and your kids are old enough to ride without you!) consider hopping into a Single Rider line. You still get to hang out together while you wait, you’ll just be popped into seats next to strangers when it is your turn to ride. Disney does this to fill odd spots and ensure popular rides don’t go with empty seats. This keeps the line moving for everyone as quickly as possible!

Many rides at the Disneyland Resort offer Single Rider lines, including the Incredicoaster.

We’ve waited to ride Radiator Springs Racers less than 20 minutes when the regular stand-by line had a two and a half hour wait time! It is a huge timesaver and helps you squeeze as much fun as possible into your day.

Consider Using Genie+

After FastPass and MaxPass were retired, Disney replaced them with a new Genie+ system which allows you to make Lightening Lane selections on your phone and come back at the designated time to ride without waiting in line.

You can also purchase an individual Lightning Lane reservation to skip the line for one particular ride.

I’ll be honest, I am not a fan of Genie+ because like many people I resent the idea of paying extra for something that not only used to be free, but adds to the bottom line of an already expensive day! That said, Disney Genie+ is a great way to cut down on waiting times for many of the most popular rides and attractions.

Genie+ also includes digital downloads of PhotoPass photos. So, if photos are important, this may take the sting out of purchasing Genie plus.

Use Mobile Food and Beverage Ordering

Use the Disneyland app on your phone for mobile food ordering. It’s a game changer! This feature allows you to view a restaurant’s menu and pricing, place your order, pay, and pick up your meal at the restaurant all without ever having to wait in line.

adventure california travel

Take Advantage of Early Entry

If you are staying at one of the Disneyland Resort Hotels, take advantage of Early Entry at DCA. Guests who are checked in and staying at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels can enter the park 30 minutes before regular park opening to enjoy select attractions, dining and shopping locations. This is a perk of staying on-property and an awesome opportunity to experience the parks crowd-free before rope drop in the morning.

Is California Adventure Worth It?

Let’s wrap this article up by answering a fairly common question. Is California Adventure worth it?

The answer is a resounding YES! It is definitely worth visiting Disney California Adventure. DCA is completely unique and offers many exciting areas you won’t find at any other Disney park in the world – Cars Land, Avengers Campus, Pixar Pier and more. It also has the most thrilling roller coaster at the Disneyland Resort .

While most people plan their Disneyland vacation most excited to visit the original Disneyland theme park, Disney California Adventure should not be overlooked. It may not hold the history and nostalgia (or sheer number of attractions) you will find at Disneyland, but there is more than enough there to fill a day and it is a integral part of the Disneyland experience.

From thrill rides featuring Super Heroes and Pixar pals to rides and shows even toddlers can enjoy, Disney California Adventure in Anaheim has something for everyone!

So if you are wondering Is California Adventure worth it when it comes to spending the time and money – especially if your time is limited – we would definitely recommend at least a day dedicated to DCA.

Discount Disneyland Tickets Looking for discount Disney tickets? Check out these great  discounts on Disneyland tickets and vacation packages  from authorized Disney seller and our trusted partner, Get Away Today. Be sure to use code CFT10 an additional $10 savings. Get Away Today  sells discount theme park tickets as well as vacation packages for both on-property and off-property hotels. They will even assist with all your Disneyland vacation plans with their free concierge service!

Pin This Disney California Adventure Ride List and Guide for Later!

Planning a trip to the Disneyland Resort? Pin the image below for future reference!

Planning a trip to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California? Here is a quick guide to all the rides, food, entertainment at Disney California Adventure Park, and tips to get the most out of your day at DCA!

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Why choose a fun outdoor adventure program? “My son returned home a bigger person inside and out. The level of guidance and care and adventure led by the instructors made for a stellar summer or growth for our teen. Wow.” – Valerie, parent from Boston, MA

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Adventure Treks and the Battle Against Phone-Based Childhoods

I was reading through college essays the other day, shared by current and former Adventure Treks students who’d written about the impact their AT experiences (climbing Mt. Shasta, backpacking in Alaska, etc.) have had on their lives. I then came across an essay on letgrow.org by a student named Finn Fox. One quote in particular […]

Social Media’s Effect on Dopamine and Teenagers

Recently, I read Habits of a Happy Brain by Loretta Graziano Breuning and Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke. Both of these books made me sit up and reevaluate my interactions with my phone and social media, and the ways in which we as a society seek gratification. In Habits of a Happy Brain, the author […]

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The Incredible Power of Experiencing Awe in the Outdoors for Teens

One of the reasons that Adventure Treks travels to beautiful outdoor spaces—and why so many of those landscapes have become designated recreation sites like national parks—is because nature often inspires us to feel awe. Experiencing awe can lead to significant benefits in our lives and communities, especially for teenagers. As an Adventure Treks instructor, I […]

Allowing Teenagers to Reclaim Independence

Recently, our office team was discussing the varying levels of independence we were given as teenagers. During my youth, I was often dropped off in a nearby national forest with a friend and a mountain bike. Long before the days of cell phones and GPS trackers, my parents told us what time and where they’d […]

Our Adventure-Inspired Reading List for Fall and Winter

If you’re anything like me, the next-best thing to going on an epic adventure is reading about someone else’s! At the same time, I can only handle so many memoirs about climbing Everest before I start to wonder what else counts as adventure, exploration, or going beyond a “normal” life. Below are some of my […]

How to Use AT Experiences in College Application Essays

Fall is the season for pumpkin spice, colorful leaves, and apple picking, but it’s also the season for college applications! For Adventure Treks students with college in their future, a unique and well-written personal essay is an important part of the process. Adventure Treks students are talented, active, and community-oriented people with busy lives and […]

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What to Expect on Opening Day at Adventure Treks

You are all signed up for Adventure Treks this summer—WOOHOO!!! You picked your destination, you’ve started packing, you’ve booked flights, and you can’t wait for the adventure to begin! Even so, you may be feeling some butterflies in your stomach about arriving to Adventure Treks, especially if this is your first trip. Perhaps you’ve never […]

Physically Preparing for Your Adventure Treks Trip

Flowers are blooming and temperatures are rising—spring is here, and that means summer is soon to follow! Unbelievably, the first Adventure Treks trips of 2023 begin in less than two months. As you check items off of the packing list and get in touch with friends from previous summers, make sure you also take time […]

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Service Close to Home: Adventure Treks’ Volunteer Day

Every year, the Adventure Treks team takes time out of the office to volunteer for local organizations. Most recently, we spent time with MANNA FoodBank in Asheville, NC! We have volunteered with MANNA before, but this time was even more special: Their new volunteer coordinator is none other than alumni instructor Nic Ames! Nic worked […]

Instructor Spotlight: Max Minichiello and Kate Wojeck

Our students will agree that Adventure Treks instructors are pretty incredible people. From planning 30-person meals for 30 days to fixing broken tent zippers to tending wounds to making sure we’re in the right place at the right time, AT instructors are constantly working to make sure our students are having the best and most […]

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Since 1978, we’ve remained dedicated to designing innovative trips to the most fascinating corners of the world. Our adventures offer something for every adventurous spirit—from African safaris to hiking odysseys in the Alps to expedition cruises in Antarctica. We invite you to join us!

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Browse our trips based on your specific interests. Whether you are looking for hiking and trekking adventures, snorkeling excursions, in-depth cultural encounters, or more, we have the trip for you.

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We have more than 200 trips in over 80 countries throughout the world. Check out some of our most popular destinations below or browse our full selection.

Experience Tanzania

Take a classic wildlife safari with skilled trackers in Serengeti National Park or climb Kilimanjaro—the roof of Africa! Enjoy expert guides, exclusive private camps, and luxury lodges.

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Join us in the Alps

Experience the Alps the right way with our world-class mountain guides. Hike among soaring peaks, hidden hamlets, and lush valleys—this is the way to see the Alps.

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Explore Peru

Savor fine hotels and cultural exploration in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, hike the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and trek the spectacular alpine trails of the Cordillera Blanca.

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Discover Egypt

Enter a mysterious world of soaring temples in a timeless desert landscape, from the Great Pyramids to Abu Simbel to a luxury cruise on the Nile.

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Hike the Himalayas

Be welcomed in tiny villages and mountainside temples, meet red-robed monks, explore colorful markets, and discover a unique Shangri-La kingdom.

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Our Trip Leaders all have an extraordinary knowledge of their destinations, and a passion to share their worlds with you.

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REVIEWS FROM OUR CLIENTS

“Absolutely EVERYTHING about this trip was perfect: itinerary, food, lodgings, trip leaders, educational opportunities. A perfect example of why Wilderness Travel will always be our first choice when planning adventures.”
“We were taught so much beyond the usual viewpoint given to a tourist that I felt I had a much deeper understanding of the culture and history than I would have if traveling with a different company.”
“An incredible variety of activities was packed into the trip, yet we never felt rushed. It would be impossible to do what we did in the same period of time without the expertise of WT guides.”
“I have dreamed of taking this trip for years. Truly this journey exceeded my expectations on all fronts. The wildlife, terrain, people, staff and fellow trip mates made it an adventure to always treasure. I feel blessed and fortunate. Thank you Wilderness Travel. You have my complete confidence.”
“Because of our Trek Leader’s vast experience in the area, we used several trails that aren’t known to many trekkers and we were invited into Sherpa homes, which was wonderful. I had been dreaming of this trip for 30 years and now those dreams are fulfilled.”
“Couldn’t have asked for a more interesting trip and two outstanding guides, accommodations, and meals. This was our fourth trip with Wilderness Travel and one of the best (although we say that about every trip we have been on!)”
“I love Wilderness Travel! You select the best guides, a variety of special places to stay, the food is always plentiful and cultural, and the adventure is top drawer! Thank you for offering trips that expand one’s knowledge of other cultures while making it enjoyable and fun.”
“We are still on a high a month after the trip, having had wonderful guides, camp crew, co-travelers, and the right mix of comfort and authentic experience.”
“WOW! This was an extraordinary trip. It was meticulously planned, but allowed for many spontaneous interactions and delightful surprises. Another WT success story.”
“This was my first trip to India and I cannot imagine a better introduction. Because of the care with which the trip had been planned and organized, I was able to relax, enjoy, and try to fully absorb the experience without spending even a moment concerned about the quotidian details of the trip. What a luxury.”
“Everyone was so thorough and helpful. It was like being whisked around on a magic carpet. Doors opened, every wish fulfilled, amazing service!”
“It was an indescribable, life-affirming experience that I will always cherish. In particular, I wanted to commend your selection of Trip Leaders. Their skill, thoughtfulness, and dedication made the entire trip seem effortless even though the challenge was great.”

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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our adventures around the world. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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California Dreaming: A Guide To Planning Your Golden State Adventure

  • Last updated Jul 22, 2024
  • Difficulty Advanced

Olivia Jacobs

  • Category Travel

are you going to travel to california

California is a state on the west coast of the United States, known for its diverse cultural and geographical offerings, vibrant cities, and critically acclaimed culinary scene. As the most populous state in the US, with nearly 40 million residents, California has something for everyone, from beaches and mountains to forests and deserts. The state boasts two major international airports, LA and SF, as well as over 140 airports in total, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the country.

California is home to several famous national parks, including Yosemite, Sequoia, and Joshua Tree, as well as stunning natural landmarks such as Big Sur and Lake Tahoe. The state also offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to skiing and rock climbing. In addition, California's cities, such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, provide exciting urban experiences, with their iconic landmarks, world-renowned cuisine, and vibrant cultural scenes.

When planning a trip to California, it's important to consider the state's size and the potential for unexpected road closures due to heavy storms. A road trip is a great way to experience the state, but it can take over 7 hours to drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco, and even longer to reach the borders. Additionally, renting a car and driving down the Pacific coast or creating a custom route can be a unique and memorable experience.

California is also a major wine-producing region, with famous vineyards in Napa Valley and several other wine regions worth exploring, such as Amador Country and Placer County. The state's cuisine is heavily influenced by Latino, Spanish, and Asian cultures, and fresh, local ingredients are abundant.

When packing for a trip to California, it's important to be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the coastal areas and national parks, where strong winds and fog are common. Layering with light sweaters and pants is recommended, as temperatures can drop unexpectedly.

What You'll Learn

California's natural parks and landscapes, road trip routes, food and drink, travel safety, travel costs.

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California is home to a plethora of natural parks and landscapes, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From rugged coastlines to towering trees, vibrant wildlife to serene lakes, California's natural wonders will leave you breathless.

One of the most famous national parks in the country, Yosemite National Park, is located in California. With its majestic waterfalls, towering granite cliffs, and vast wilderness, it's no wonder that it's a favourite among adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a range of activities, from low-impact fishing and birdwatching to thrilling pursuits like rock climbing and rafting.

For those seeking a unique desert experience, Joshua Tree National Park is the place to go. Located in Southern California, this park boasts an otherworldly charm with its dynamic flora and surreal geologic features. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering rock climbing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

If you're a fan of giant sequoias, then Sequoia National Park is a must-visit. This park is home to the Giant Forest, featuring over 8,000 sequoias that stand as tall as a 26-story building. Among them is the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world by volume.

California also offers coastal wonders like Redwood National and State Parks, which span 40 miles of rocky coastline and majestic redwood trees. A short stroll along the Big Tree Wayside gives visitors a glimpse of these massive trees, while the Trillium Falls Trail offers small waterfalls and a more extended hike.

Death Valley National Park, the biggest and hottest park in California, presents a land of extremes. Despite its morbid name, it boasts a diverse array of life, from towering snow-capped peaks to wildflower fields and lush oases.

With its nine national parks, California truly is a nature lover's paradise, offering an unparalleled variety of landscapes and natural wonders to explore and discover.

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The Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is a classic California road trip route, and for good reason. This route takes you from Dana Point, south of Los Angeles, all the way up to Leggett, just south of the Oregon border. Along the way, you'll pass through Santa Cruz, Monterey, Big Sur, San Simeon, Cambria, Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Malibu, before finishing up in San Francisco. This route is all about the ocean views, nature, and some of the state's most interesting sites.

The Eastern Sierras

The Eastern Sierras route takes you from Lone Pine, a former mining town, to South Lake Tahoe. This route is all about the inland scenery, from prehistoric forests to historic mining towns, and a variety of geological features. Along the way, you'll pass through Big Pine, Bishop, Mammoth Mountain, Mono Lake, and Truckee.

Highway 128

Highway 128 takes you from Winters, through Napa and Sonoma, to Mendocino. This route is all about the iconic parts of Northern California: Napa and Sonoma wines, redwood forests, Mendocino seafood, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Along the way, you'll pass through Calistoga, Healdsburg, and Boonville.

Northern California Wine Country

This route takes you from San Francisco to Sonoma. This route is all about the wine, of course, but it's also a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region. Along the way, you'll pass through Napa, Calistoga, Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Jack London State Historic Park, and Sonoma.

Redding to Lassen Volcanic National Park

This route takes you from Redding to Lassen Volcanic National Park. This route is all about the mountain scenery, from craggy peaks to volcanic rock. Along the way, you'll pass through Shasta Lake, Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Mount Shasta, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, Lake Almanor, and the town of Redding.

Gold Chain Highway

The Gold Chain Highway takes you from Mariposa to Vinton. This route is all about the history of the Gold Rush, as well as the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevadas. Along the way, you'll pass through Coulterville, Jamestown, Columbia State Historic Park, Sonora, Placerville, Auburn, Nevada City, Downieville, and Grass Valley.

Fresno Blossom and Fruit Trails

This route takes you from Fresno to Clovis. This route is all about the fruit and nut trees of the region, with plenty of opportunities to stop and sample the local produce. Along the way, you'll pass through Sanger, Orange Cove, Reedley, Kingsburg, and Clovis.

Central Highlights

This route takes you from Carmel-by-the-Sea to San Francisco. This route is all about the food and wine of the Central Coast and San Luis Obispo County. Along the way, you'll pass through Big Sur, San Simeon, Cambria, Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Santa Barbara.

The Desert Drive

This route takes you from San Diego to Joshua Tree National Park. This route is all about the sweeping arid landscape of Southern California. Along the way, you'll pass through Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Palm Springs, Pioneer Town, and Slab City.

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California is a trendsetter when it comes to food and drink, with a range of creative and colourful fusions influenced by cuisines from all over the world. The state's diverse population, sunny climate, ocean access, and agricultural prowess have all contributed to its culinary traditions.

California is home to 90 Michelin-starred restaurants, with the San Francisco Bay Area alone boasting seven three-star establishments. The state is also a top wine destination, with a thriving craft beer scene of over 1,000 breweries.

Some of the must-try foods and drinks in California include:

  • Avocado and Guacamole: Californians are proud of their avocados, putting them on everything from burgers to ice cream. A simple yet delicious option is avocado on toast, which can be found at Dinette in Los Angeles' Echo Park neighbourhood.
  • Cioppino: This classic Italian-American seafood stew is believed to have originated in San Francisco's Little Italy neighbourhood. It typically includes a mix of squid, Dungeness crab, mussels, clams, and white fish, simmered in a tomato and wine sauce.
  • In-N-Out Double-Double: A piece of California history, this burger has been a staple since 1948 when Harry Snyder opened the state's first drive-thru burger stand. It's a hefty burger with two beef patties, two slices of cheese, tomato, lettuce, and a secret "spread" on a freshly baked bun.
  • Cobb Salad: Invented at the Brown Derby Restaurant, this salad became a hit with Hollywood's elite. It typically includes diced tomato, bacon, avocado, chicken, boiled eggs, and minced chives on a bed of lettuce and watercress greens, often served with a red wine vinaigrette.
  • French Dip Sandwich: This sandwich is believed to have originated at either Phillipe's the Original or Cole's Pacific Electric Buffet. It features freshly sliced roast beef, onions, mayonnaise, and Swiss cheese on a warmed French roll.
  • The Mission Burrito: A classic Mexican-American dish, the Mission Burrito is a hearty meal containing rice, beans, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, meat, Pico de Gallo, and hot sauce or salsa.
  • California-Style Pizza: A single-serving, thin-crust pizza topped with unique ingredients like peanut sauce, chicken, goat cheese, or artichoke hearts.
  • American-Style Sushi: While sushi is traditionally Japanese, California's access to fresh seafood has led to the development of American-style sushi, such as the California roll with cucumber, crab, and avocado.
  • American-Chinese Food: Chinese immigrants who settled in California created Chinese-American cuisine using local ingredients and traditional techniques. Classic dishes include egg fried rice, chow mein, and beef and broccoli.
  • Mesquite Seasoning: This seasoning has been grown in California for hundreds of years and is used in dishes like mesquite-grilled vegetables.
  • The Maple Bar Donut: A West Coast favourite, this soft and warm maple donut is best enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: California wines shocked the industry in 1976 when they were chosen over French wines in a blind wine competition. Cabernet Sauvignon is a prime example of California's excellent wines.
  • Craft Beer: With over 1,000 breweries, California's craft beer scene is thriving. Try beers from breweries like Russian River Company, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, and Lagunitas.

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California is a beautiful state with a lot to offer, from its rich history and landscapes to its fantastic weather. However, there are some safety precautions to be aware of before planning your trip. Here are some tips to ensure your journey is as safe as possible:

Before You Go

Before travelling to California, it is recommended that you educate yourself on the local regulations and community concerns. It is also a good idea to register at the state's e-registry website if you are staying for more than four days. This will allow you to receive notifications if you become a victim of identity theft and access other important information during your stay.

Getting There

There are no current restrictions on air travel to California from within the United States. However, all international air passengers must provide a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery before boarding a flight to the United States. It is also worth noting that there are no travel restrictions within California, but it is recommended to follow the CDC's travel guidelines.

Getting Around

California has a vast network of roads, rail, and airports, which are constantly being upgraded to ensure safer travel. However, the state ranks high in vehicle-related accidents, especially DUIs. Therefore, it is advised to use a reputable taxi service or, if renting a car, to be cautious and avoid driving under the influence. Additionally, if you are a woman travelling alone, it is recommended to avoid using ATMs at night and to always have a companion with you.

Natural Disasters

California is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, landslides, and forest fires. It is important to be prepared and protect yourself before and during your visit. Identify evacuation routes and be aware of any instructions from local authorities, especially if you are near a coastline, as tsunamis may occur.

California has a population of over 38 million people, and unfortunately, there are places where tourists may feel at risk of assault, mugging, or robbery. Los Angeles, for example, has a reputation for glamour, but it also has gangs, carjackings, and home invasions. It is recommended to avoid Skid Row in Downtown Los Angeles, as it is considered extremely dangerous. Additionally, pickpocketing is common in popular landmarks and tourist attractions, so it is advised to use a money belt to hold your cash and credit cards.

The water in California has been linked to cancer, so it is best to stick to bottled water during your stay. Additionally, the risk for skin cancer is significantly higher in the state due to the lack of an ozone layer, abundant sunshine, and a less-than-protective lifestyle. Always wear sunscreen and cover up when you can to protect yourself.

Places to Avoid

Aside from Skid Row, other places to avoid include Death Valley National Park, which has extreme temperatures, and rural areas of Central California, such as the city of Visalia, which has high crime rates.

Places to Visit

If you're looking for safer places to travel within California, consider San Diego, Napa Valley, Yosemite National Park, Santa Barbara, or Lake Tahoe. These destinations offer beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

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The cost of travelling to California depends on a variety of factors, including the time of year, where you're flying from, and your budget.

The cost of flights to California varies depending on the time of year and where you are flying from. High season runs from June to August, with return flights costing upwards of $700. Low season is from January to May, with return flights costing around $450 on average.

Accommodation

Accommodation costs can vary depending on location and the type of accommodation. On average, a 3-4 star hotel will cost around $240 per night. Airbnb prices vary, but you can expect to pay at least $80 per night. Camping is a cheaper option, with some campsites costing as little as $10 per night.

Transportation

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around California and costs around $50 per day. Public transportation is also available and is more cost-effective, with a regular ride costing around $2. Taxi rides can be expensive, with a 20-minute ride costing upwards of $15.

The cost of food in California varies depending on your preferences and budget. Eating out at restaurants can be expensive, with a sit-in dinner for two costing around $30. Supermarket prices are more affordable, and you can find meals for as little as $20.

There are a variety of activities available in California to suit all budgets. National parks offer affordable options, with an annual pass costing $80. Amusement parks, such as Disneyland, can be more expensive, with entry costing around $150 per person per day. Other activities, such as wine tasting and museum visits, can cost between $15-20.

Overall Costs

On average, you can expect to spend around $135-330 per person per day for budget to upper mid-range travel. A one-week trip for two people can cost around $3,300, including flights, accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

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Frequently asked questions.

It is recommended to rent a car when visiting California, especially if you want to see a lot of the state. The public transportation system in the LA area is not great, and while you can get by without a car in San Francisco, it is still advised to rent one.

It is recommended that you don't try to do too much on your trip to California unless you are good with long drives and rushed adventures. Consider spending a week in the northern part of the state (San Francisco, Napa, Yosemite, etc.) and then another week in Southern California (Los Angeles, San Diego, Joshua Tree, etc.).

California has a lot to offer, including amusement parks, waterfalls, beaches, great restaurants, and tons of other fun attractions. It has nine national parks, including Yosemite, which costs $35 to enter. Other national parks cost around $30. California also has famous food items such as the California burrito, clam chowder in a bread bowl, fish tacos, and donuts.

California is a big state, and it can take 12-13 hours to drive north to south without stopping. Traffic can be heavy, especially in Los Angeles and San Francisco, so plan your drive times accordingly. California can also be expensive, with a state tax on food and items, costly gas, and expensive parking in tourist areas. Lastly, check for any road closures or alternate routes before your trip, as heavy storms in California have led to isolated road closures in some areas.

Olivia Jacobs

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14 Top Travel Destinations for Retirees

Learn about the places retirees love to visit.

Top Travel Destinations for Retirees

Mather Point scenic viewpoint at the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, United States

Getty Images

The Grand Canyon is just one of many reasons Arizona is a favorite among retirees.

Many people enter retirement with a wish list of places they would like to explore. A recent AARP survey revealed that retirees are leaning into opportunities to visit domestic destinations, especially as they face rising costs due to higher inflation . The South and West, with their warm climates and inviting sites, remain popular. However, there are some international places that rank highly as well. Overall, travel remains a priority for more than half of those who are 50 or older.

The following are the destinations retirees say are at the top of their bucket list for future travel:

  • California.
  • Great Britain.

The Sunshine State is the most popular domestic destination for retirees who are planning trips, according to survey data from AARP. For many people, the mild winter weather in Florida tops the cold and snowy conditions in northern states. Seasonal visitors and year-round residents can lounge on one of Florida’s white sand beaches or visit the Keys for fishing, boating and snorkeling outings. History buffs might tour sites like the Hemingway Home and Museum or the Harry S. Truman Little White House in Key West. For those looking to add to their shell collection, Sanibel Island is known for its peaceful shoreline lined with colorful seashells.

A stroll through a winery in Napa Valley, a day at the beach and a tour of Alcatraz make the bucket list for many retirees. California has more national parks than any other state, including Yosemite, with its dramatic waterfalls and giant sequoia trees, Death Valley, which features extreme heat and a below sea-level basin, and Joshua Tree, which hosts a vast display of plants and animals in a desert landscape. California's cities hold renowned sites such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the Hollywood Walk of Fame and sign, along with innovative and award-winning restaurants. San Diego , the state’s oldest city, features the Spanish mission Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, which was founded in 1769.

The casinos and nightlife are a top attraction for retirees looking for a change of pace. Many Las Vegas hotels go above and beyond to provide guests with a feeling of luxury and comfort, making this a go-to destination for those looking for four- and five-star dining and lodging experiences. The Neon Museum showcases the signs and remnants of former casinos and businesses in Las Vegas, including the pirate skull that appeared on Treasure Island. The nearby architectural wonder, the Hoover Dam, was built during the Great Depression and is one of the tallest dams in the world.

The Lone Star State comes with something for a range of tastes, including barbecues, city life, rodeos and professional sports events. Those who stay in San Antonio can stroll the River Walk and visit The Alamo to learn about Texas history and the Battle of the Alamo. A visit to Houston could include the Space Center, where visitors get an inside look at space exploration over the years. Those seeking warmth and sunshine might head to South Padre Island for fishing, boating and shopping. The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center has a five-story watchtower, where visitors can view migrating birds.

Whether it’s a visit to the Grand Canyon or spending mild winter days at the pool, many retirees love to be in this Southern state. Arizona offers more than 300 days of warm rays and has spots like Yuma, which is one of the sunniest places in the world. Those who love desert scenery, history and art will find plenty to enjoy. Arizona also has communities that cater to retirees and luxurious touches like resorts and golf courses for travelers who want pampering or a chance to take swings every day.

A show on Broadway is a highlight for many of the millions of tourists who visit New York each year. The city boasts some of the nation’s most well-known museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. Located at the World Trade Center, the 9/11 Memorial Museum shares the story of 9/11 through a collection of artifacts and narratives. A cruise to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island gives retirees the chance to take in the same welcoming sights that newcomers have seen for centuries as they approach the country via ship.

From pasta served with a glass of wine to rich and flavorful gelato, there’s plenty of cuisine to draw in foodies. Italy tops the list of international destinations for retirees, according to the AARP survey. Tours of ancient ruins abound, including the Colosseum, the remains of the city of Pompeii and the Romeo and Juliet setting of Verona. In addition to being the country with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Italy offers lovely natural landscapes, ranging from mountain ranges to quiet lakes and vivid coastlines. There is also an abundance of resorts and beaches to choose from when travelers are ready to relax and soak in the sun.

Great Britain

Following Italy, travelers in the AARP survey ranked Great Britain as the next European spot on their bucket list. Known for its quaint gardens, tranquil scenery and rich history, the region has much for retirees to view and tour. There are also festivals, concerts and sports events for those seeking entertainment during their stay. The theater stages are world-renowned, and retirees with flexible schedules may be able to secure travel and ticket deals during non-peak seasons.

France is home to renowned cuisine, historical sites and sophisticated culture. Paris is often a first stop, and the City of Light offers incredible displays of fashion, must-see art at the Louvre Museum and enchanting views of the iconic Eiffel tower. The quiet countryside awaits for those seeking a relaxed pace, tours of quaint villages and nature escapes. Your France itinerary can be tailored to your interests, perhaps including hiking in the Alps or the Pyrenees, tours of medieval sites in Rouen or a visit to the beaches of Normandy. Some retirees love the country so much they opt to reside there.

There’s no need to learn a new language to tour this popular European destination , which offers both urban delights in Dublin and picturesque villages dotting the countryside. The Irish landscape is lined with green hills, rugged cliffs along the sea and weathered rock formations. Lively festivals attract visitors seeking a taste of traditional music and culture. Touring castles and ruins can help retirees understand Ireland ’s past and infamous Viking days. Top destinations on the castle list include Dublin Castle to learn about history; Bunratty Castle to see one of the most complete castles remaining; and Dunluce Castle for its spectacular sea views.

For those looking for beautiful scenery, delicious food and dramatic history, Germany comes in as a top travel choice. The past comes alive in its medieval towns of Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Goslar, Regensburg and Ulm, among others. A plethora of places tell the story of World War II, including Vorbunker and Fuhrerbunker where Adolf Hitler resided, the Dachau memorial and museum, St. Nicholas Church and the Holocaust Memorial. When ready for an outdoor break, parks in Berlin, trails in the Black Forest, views of the towering mountain peaks and picnics alongside one of Germany’s many rivers await.

Vibrant colors, gorgeous beaches and artisan markets attract retirees interested in a warm getaway and friendly environment. The ruins of Teotihuacan outside Mexico City reveal ancient Mesoamerican life, while Chichen Itza and Tulum showcase Mayan ruins. Mexico’s many colonial cities, often referred to as “Pueblos Magicos,” create the perfect opportunity to stroll through pebbled streets and shop in open-air markets. Guanajuato, a Spanish-founded city which originally thrived on silver mining, features an intricate network of tunnels and narrow alleyways, and its brightly painted structures climb the steep surrounding hillsides. No visit is complete without sampling Mexico’s food scene, which ranges from fine dining to street vendors.

Just off the southeast coast of Florida, this Caribbean destination has turquoise-blue waters and pristine sand. Boat tours abound, which take visitors on excursions that include snorkeling, fishing and visits to private islands. Tourists can take a midday break to have a leisurely picnic on a beach. Those looking for a unique experience can feed beach pigs or even swim with the pigs. Pink Sands Beach offers exactly what its name suggests: a chance to walk along a rose-colored shore. The Versailles Gardens are filled with breathtaking greenery, terraced gardens and intricate architecture.

With an area that covers 20 miles in length and six miles at its widest point, Aruba is known for its white sand beaches and spectacular ocean views. An array of reefs near the shore filled with tropical fish attracts visitors interested in snorkeling and diving. Retirees looking for nightlife can head to a beach barbecue, cocktail hour or one of the island’s casinos. The capital city of Oranjestad is filled with colorful buildings, and its architecture in the downtown area has Dutch influences. Aruba’s economy thrives on tourism, and a friendly environment welcomes visitors year-round.

Best Bargain Places to Retire Abroad

Kathleen Peddicord March 30, 2023

Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus

Tags: retirement , money , Travel

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Passing Thru

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15 Thrilling American Road Trips for the Ultimate Adventure

Posted: July 26, 2024 | Last updated: July 26, 2024

<p><strong>Fuel your passion for cars with these epic road trips across the United States. Are you ready to hit the road and experience the thrill of these top destinations?</strong></p>

Fuel your passion for cars with these epic road trips across the United States. Are you ready to hit the road and experience the thrill of these top destinations?

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Doug Meek</p>  <p><span>Cruise along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway for stunning ocean views, winding roads, and picturesque coastal towns. Start your journey in Los Angeles and make your way up to San Francisco, taking in breathtaking scenery along the way.</span></p>

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Doug Meek

Cruise along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway for stunning ocean views, winding roads, and picturesque coastal towns. Start your journey in Los Angeles and make your way up to San Francisco, taking in breathtaking scenery along the way.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Zack Frank</p>  <p><span>Experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains on this scenic drive through North Carolina and Virginia. With miles of twisting roads and panoramic vistas, it’s the perfect route for car enthusiasts who love a good mountain drive.</span></p>

2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Zack Frank

Experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains on this scenic drive through North Carolina and Virginia. With miles of twisting roads and panoramic vistas, it’s the perfect route for car enthusiasts who love a good mountain drive.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nyokki</p>  <p><span>Take a trip down memory lane on historic Route 66, the legendary highway that stretches from Illinois to California. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and iconic landmarks that capture the spirit of Americana.</span></p>

3. Route 66, Illinois to California

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nyokki

Take a trip down memory lane on historic Route 66, the legendary highway that stretches from Illinois to California. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and iconic landmarks that capture the spirit of Americana.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mihai_Andritoiu</p>  <p><span>Venture into the heart of Glacier National Park on Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive that winds through towering mountains and alpine meadows. With hairpin turns and awe-inspiring vistas, it’s a must-visit destination for any car lover seeking adventure.</span></p>

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mihai_Andritoiu

Venture into the heart of Glacier National Park on Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive that winds through towering mountains and alpine meadows. With hairpin turns and awe-inspiring vistas, it’s a must-visit destination for any car lover seeking adventure.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mia2you</p>  <p><span>Hop on the Overseas Highway and journey through the Florida Keys, where turquoise waters and swaying palm trees create a tropical paradise. With miles of bridges and causeways connecting the islands, it’s a road trip like no other.</span></p>

5. Overseas Highway, Florida

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Hop on the Overseas Highway and journey through the Florida Keys, where turquoise waters and swaying palm trees create a tropical paradise. With miles of bridges and causeways connecting the islands, it’s a road trip like no other.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Eddie J. Rodriquez</p>  <p><span>Follow the mighty Mississippi River on the Great River Road, a scenic route that stretches from Minnesota to Louisiana. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming river towns, historic landmarks, and breathtaking views of America’s heartland.</span></p>

6. Great River Road, Mississippi River

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Eddie J. Rodriquez

Follow the mighty Mississippi River on the Great River Road, a scenic route that stretches from Minnesota to Louisiana. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming river towns, historic landmarks, and breathtaking views of America’s heartland.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kris Wiktor</p>  <p><span>Buckle up for a thrilling ride on the Million Dollar Highway, a scenic byway that traverses the rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. With steep cliffs, hairpin turns, and jaw-dropping vistas, it’s a road trip that will leave you breathless.</span></p>

7. Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kris Wiktor

Buckle up for a thrilling ride on the Million Dollar Highway, a scenic byway that traverses the rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. With steep cliffs, hairpin turns, and jaw-dropping vistas, it’s a road trip that will leave you breathless.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Bob Pool</p>  <p><span>Embark on a journey along Highway 101 and explore the stunning coastline of Oregon. From rugged cliffs to sandy beaches, this scenic drive offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.</span></p>

8. Highway 101, Oregon

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Bob Pool

Embark on a journey along Highway 101 and explore the stunning coastline of Oregon. From rugged cliffs to sandy beaches, this scenic drive offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Collins Unlimited</p>  <p><span>Discover the beauty of coastal Maine on Route 1, a scenic highway that winds through charming fishing villages, historic lighthouses, and picturesque harbors. With fresh seafood and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect road trip for any car lover.</span></p>

9. Route 1, Maine

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Discover the beauty of coastal Maine on Route 1, a scenic highway that winds through charming fishing villages, historic lighthouses, and picturesque harbors. With fresh seafood and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect road trip for any car lover.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / benemale</p>  <p><span>Experience the wonders of southern Utah on Route 12, a scenic highway that passes through some of the state’s most iconic national parks and monuments. From red rock canyons to towering mesas, it’s a road trip that showcases the natural beauty of the American West.</span></p>

10. Route 12, Utah

Image Credit: Shutterstock / benemale

Experience the wonders of southern Utah on Route 12, a scenic highway that passes through some of the state’s most iconic national parks and monuments. From red rock canyons to towering mesas, it’s a road trip that showcases the natural beauty of the American West.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Melinda Fawver</p>  <p><span>Test your driving skills on the Tail of the Dragon, an exhilarating stretch of road with 318 curves in just 11 miles. Located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, it’s a favorite destination for car enthusiasts looking for an adrenaline-pumping ride.</span></p>

11. Tail of the Dragon, North Carolina and Tennessee

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Melinda Fawver

Test your driving skills on the Tail of the Dragon, an exhilarating stretch of road with 318 curves in just 11 miles. Located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, it’s a favorite destination for car enthusiasts looking for an adrenaline-pumping ride.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sam Spicer</p>  <p><span>Experience the thrill of high-altitude driving on the Beartooth Highway, a scenic route that climbs over the Beartooth Pass in Montana and Wyoming. With sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes, it’s a road trip that will take your breath away.</span></p>

12. Beartooth Highway, Montana and Wyoming

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sam Spicer

Experience the thrill of high-altitude driving on the Beartooth Highway, a scenic route that climbs over the Beartooth Pass in Montana and Wyoming. With sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes, it’s a road trip that will take your breath away.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dirk Daniel Mann</p>  <p><span>Known as the “Tail of the Dragon’s Little Brother,” Route 129 offers a challenging drive with 318 curves in just 11 miles. Located on the border of Georgia and North Carolina, it’s a popular destination for motorcyclists and car enthusiasts alike.</span></p>

13. Route 129, Georgia and North Carolina

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dirk Daniel Mann

Known as the “Tail of the Dragon’s Little Brother,” Route 129 offers a challenging drive with 318 curves in just 11 miles. Located on the border of Georgia and North Carolina, it’s a popular destination for motorcyclists and car enthusiasts alike.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / fandangle</p>  <p><span>Explore the diverse landscapes of Oregon on Route 20, a scenic highway that stretches from the Pacific Coast to the Idaho border. From lush forests to high desert plains, this road trip offers something for every nature-loving car enthusiast.</span></p>

14. Route 20, Oregon

Image Credit: Shutterstock / fandangle

Explore the diverse landscapes of Oregon on Route 20, a scenic highway that stretches from the Pacific Coast to the Idaho border. From lush forests to high desert plains, this road trip offers something for every nature-loving car enthusiast.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / maloff</p>  <p><span>Experience the beauty of Vermont on Route 9, a scenic highway that winds through the Green Mountains and picturesque countryside. With charming small towns, covered bridges, and rolling hillsides, it’s the perfect road trip for those who love classic New England scenery.</span></p>

15. Route 9, Vermont

Image Credit: Shutterstock / maloff

Experience the beauty of Vermont on Route 9, a scenic highway that winds through the Green Mountains and picturesque countryside. With charming small towns, covered bridges, and rolling hillsides, it’s the perfect road trip for those who love classic New England scenery.

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / PV productions</p>  <p><span>Ready to embark on your next adventure? These top U.S. road trips offer unforgettable experiences for car lovers of all ages. So grab your keys, buckle up, and get ready to hit the open road in search of adventure and excitement. With so many epic destinations to explore, the journey is just beginning!</span></p> <p><span>The post – <a href="https://mechanicinsider.com/15-must-visit-u-s-road-trips-for-every-car-lover">15 Must-Visit U.S. Road Trips for Every Car Lover</a> – first appeared on </span><a href="https://mechanicinsider.com/"><span>Mechanic Insider</span></a><span>.</span></p> <p><span>Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Soloviova Liudmyla.</span></p> <p><span>For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.</span></p>

Hit the Road and Fuel Your Passion

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Ready to embark on your next adventure? These top U.S. road trips offer unforgettable experiences for car lovers of all ages. So grab your keys, buckle up, and get ready to hit the open road in search of adventure and excitement. With so many epic destinations to explore, the journey is just beginning!

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / donvictorio</p>  <p><span>Route 66, the iconic highway that once connected Chicago to Los Angeles, is rich in American history, nostalgia, and, purportedly, the supernatural. This legendary path, often called “The Mother Road,” is dotted with haunted motels, deserted towns, and mysterious landmarks that have accumulated ghostly tales over decades. From the restless spirits of the Old West in Oatman, Arizona, to the ghostly occurrences at the Monte Vista Hotel in Flagstaff, travelers on Route 66 embark on a journey through America’s heartland and its haunted past. The road offers an incomparable adventure for those looking to explore the folklore that America’s expansion westward left behind.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip:</b><span> Stop by the historic town of Jerome, Arizona, now a thriving artist community but once known as the “Wickedest Town in the West.” Its haunted tours are especially captivating.</span></p> <p><b>When to Travel:</b><span> Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions for this cross-country journey, avoiding the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.</span></p> <p><b>How to Get There:</b><span> While the original Route 66 has been decommissioned, much of it runs parallel to Interstate 40. Start in Chicago, following Historic Route 66 signs through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and finally California.</span></p>

Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

Image Credit: Shutterstock / donvictorio

Discover chilling tales from the America’s spookiest roads complete with ghostly figures and eerie phenomena in this thrilling guide to paranormal hotspots—perfect for adventure seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Ready for a supernatural road trip? Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Pexels / Adrian Newell</p>  <p>Houston’s Space Center and diverse culinary scene make it a must-visit. Yet, the city has areas with significant crime rates, including theft and assault. Tourists are encouraged to explore its attractions while being vigilant about their personal safety.</p>

18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

Image Credit: Pexels / Adrian Newell

American cities dazzle with culture and history, yet rising crime rates demand cautious exploration. This guide ensures you stay informed and safe. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

<p class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nejdet Duzen</p>  <p>At the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, Harpers Ferry is a quaint town steeped in Civil War history, offering scenic beauty and trails that tell tales of yore. It’s a hiker’s paradise with a side of history lesson.</p>

22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nejdet Duzen

Hit the road and discover America’s coziest towns, real-life versions of those quaint settings from your favorite novels. Explore charming streets where every storefront tells a story and locals greet everyone with a hello. Ready to dive into the charm? 22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Lund .

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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WATCH Deadpool & Wolverine [2024] FuLLMovie Free Online On 123MOVIES

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05 seconds ago — Here is a comprehensive guide how to watch Deadpool & Wolverine online in its entirety from the comfort of your own home. You can access the full movie free of charge on the respected platform known as FMovies. Immerse yourself in the captivating experience of Deadpool & Wolverine by watching it online for free. Alternatively, you can also enjoy the movie by downloading it in high definition. Enhance your movie viewing experience by watching Deadpool & Wolverine on GoMovies, a trusted source for online movie streaming.

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Watch Deadpool & Wolverine full movie recommend legal methods. You can purchase the film on official online stores or streaming websites. Watching a movie is always a good idea, especially if it is good. Deadpool & Wolverine is one of those movies you do not want to miss out on. The long-awaited sequel to Twister is here, and there are different options for where to watch Deadpool & Wolverine. 28 years after the original disaster movie starring Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt became a massive $495 million success, the franchise continues with a new installment. Deadpool & Wolverine' cast is headlined by Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell, with Anthony Ramos, Brandon Perea, David Corenswet, and others also appearing. The film follows two groups of storm chasers in Oklahoma as they band together under extreme duress.

If you're wondering how and where you can watch Deadpool & Wolverine this weekend, take a look at the info above.

Given the box office success of the original movie, the Twister sequel was greenlit with the understanding that it would receive a theatrical release. Directed by Minari's Deadpool & Wolverine Isaac Chung, the massive blockbuster headlined by rising stars in Hollywood is betting on substantial interest. Deadpool & Wolverine' good reviews help tell audiences that the movie is worth watching. But, theatrical is just part of the equation nowadays, as streaming and digital releases also open up movies to different viewers. It's up to each individual to decide where to watch Deadpool & Wolverine then.

Released : 2024-07-24

Runtime : 128 minutes

Genre : Science Fiction, Action, Comedy

Stars : Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin, Matthew Macfadyen, Morena Baccarin

Director : Rob Liefeld, Fabian Nicieza, Kevin Feige, Shawn Levy, Rhett Reese

Universal gave Deadpool & Wolverine an exclusive theatrical release starting on July 19, 2024. The PG-13 action blockbuster arrives after several memorable trailers that helped create excitement in the franchise's continuation. Audiences who are especially interested in watching Deadpool & Wolverine on the big screen can opt to see the film in IMAX, 4DX, and other premium formats for a viewing experience that will not be replicable at home.

Deadpool & Wolverine was written by Mark L. Smith and directed by Deadpool & Wolverine Isaac Chung. It stars the following actors:

Deadpool & Wolverine is Rated PG-13 for intense action and peril, some language, and injury images. The film runs for a total of 1 hour and 57 minutes including credits.

Universal has yet to announce an official streaming release date for Deadpool & Wolverine, but the movie is expected to stream on Peacock at the appropriate time. Since NBCUniversal owns Peacock, the streaming service is the home to all new Universal movies. While no confirmed release date has come, Universal's history creates a way to project when this will happen for each film. The studio releases new movies on Peacock after roughly 90 days on average. That would indicate that Deadpool & Wolverine could be released on Peacock in October 2024 with a similar schedule.

The first option for at-home viewings of Deadpool & Wolverine will predate the streaming release thanks to the film releasing on digital first. Universal has yet to announce when this will occur, but the studio typically makes its films available on PVOD services after 32 days on average. This would mean Deadpool & Wolverine' digital release could happen in August 2024. The only way that does not happen is if Deadpool & Wolverine becomes a major box office hit and Universal opts to extend the film's exclusivity in theaters.

WHEN AND WHERE WILL Deadpool & Wolverine BE STREAMING?

The new Deadpool & Wolverine prequel Deadpool & Wolverine will be available for streaming first on Starz for subscribers Later on the movie will also be released on Peacock thanks to the agreement between distributor Lionsgate and the NBC Universal streaming platform Determining the exact arrival date of the movie is a slightly more complex matter Typically Lionsgate movies like John Wick 4 take approximately six months to become available on Starz where they tend to remain for a considerable period As for when Songbirds Snakes will be accessible on Peacock it could take nearly a year after its release although we will only receive confirmation once Lionsgate makes an official announcement However if you wish to watch the movie even earlier you can rent it on Video on Demand (VOD) which will likely be available before the streaming date on Starz

WHERE CAN I STREAM THE ORIGINAL Deadpool & Wolverine MOVIES IN THE MEANTIME?

In the meantime you can currently stream all four original Deadpool & Wolverine movies on Peacock until the end of November The availability of Deadpool & Wolverine movies on Peacock varies depending on the month so make sure to take advantage of the current availability

HOW TO WATCH Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) ONLINE:

As of now, the only way to watch Deadpool & Wolverine is to head out to a movie theater when it releases on Friday, September 8. You can find a local showing on Fandango. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait until it becomes available to rent or purchase on digital platforms like Vudu, Apple, YouTube, and Amazon or available to stream on Max. Deadpool & Wolverine is still currently in theaters if you want to experience all the film’s twists and turns in a traditional cinema. But there’s also now an option to watch the film at home. As of November 25, 2024, Deadpool & Wolverine is available on HBO Max. Only those with a subscription to the service can watch the movie. Because the film is distributed by 20th Century Studios, it’s one of the last films of the year to head to HBO Max due to a streaming deal in lieu of Disney acquiring 20th Century Studios, as Variety reports. At the end of 2024, 20th Century Studios’ films will head to Hulu or Disney+ once they leave theaters.

IS Deadpool & Wolverine MOVIE ON NETFLIX, CRUNCHYROLL, HULU, OR AMAZON PRIME?

Netflix: Deadpool & Wolverine is currently not available on Netflix. However, fans of dark fantasy films can explore other thrilling options such as Doctor Strange to keep themselves entertained.

Crunchyroll: Crunchyroll and Funimation have acquired the rights to distribute Deadpool & Wolverine in North America. Stay tuned for its release on the platform in the coming months. In the meantime, indulge in dark fantasy shows like Spider-man to fulfill your entertainment needs.

Hulu: Unfortunately, Deadpool & Wolverine is not available for streaming on Hulu. However, Hulu offers a variety of other exciting options like Afro Samurai Resurrection or Ninja Scroll to keep you entertained.

Disney+: Deadpool & Wolverine is not currently available for streaming on Disney+. Fans will have to wait until late December, when it is expected to be released on the platform. Disney typically releases its films on Disney+ around 45-60 days after their theatrical release, ensuring an immersive cinematic experience for viewers.

IS Deadpool & Wolverine ON AMAZON PRIME VIDEO?

Deadpool & Wolverine movie could eventually be available to watch on Prime Video, though it will likely be a paid digital release rather than being included with an Amazon Prime subscription. This means that rather than watching the movie as part of an existing subscription fee, you may have to pay money to rent the movie digitally on Amazon. However, Warner Bros. and Amazon have yet to discuss whether or not this will be the case.

WHEN WILL Deadpool & Wolverine’, BE AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY AND DVD?

As of right now, we don’t know. While the film will eventually land on Blu-ray, DVD, and 4K Ultra HD, Warner Bros has yet to reveal a specific date as to when that would be. The first Nun film also premiered in theaters in early September and was released on Blu-ray and DVD in December. Our best guess is that the sequel will follow a similar path and will be available around the holiday season.

HERE’S HOW TO WATCH ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ ONLINE SREAMING IN AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

To watch Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) for free online streaming in Australia and New Zealand, you can explore options like gomovies.one and gomovies.today, as mentioned in the search results. However, please note that the legality and safety of using such websites may vary, so exercise caution when accessing them. Additionally, you can check if the movie is available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video, as they often offer a wide selection of movies and TV.

Mark your calendars for July 8th, as that’s when Deadpool & Wolverine will be available on Disney+. This highly anticipated installment in the franchise is packed with thrilling action and adventure, promising to captivate audiences and leave them craving for more. Captivate audiences and leave them craving for more.

Here is a comprehensive guide how to watch Deadpool & Wolverine online in its entirety from the comfort of your own home. You can access the full movie free of charge on the respected platform known as FMovies. Immerse yourself in the captivating experience of Deadpool & Wolverine by watching it online for free. Alternatively, you can also enjoy the movie by downloading it in high definition. Enhance your movie viewing experience by watching Deadpool & Wolverine on FMovies, a trusted source for online movie streaming.

Deadpool & Wolverine is a standalone sequel to 1996's Twister. Like its predecessor, Deadpool & Wolverine follows a group of storm chasers in Oklahoma. Here's the official synopsis from Universal:

Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as Kate Carter, a former storm chaser haunted by a devastating encounter with a tornado during her college years who now studies storm patterns on screens safely in New York City. She is lured back to the open plains by her friend, Javi to test a groundbreaking new tracking system. There, she crosses paths with Tyler Owens, the charming and reckless social-media superstar who thrives on posting his storm-chasing adventures with his raucous crew, the more dangerous the better.

As storm season intensifies, terrifying phenomena never seen before are unleashed, and Kate, Tyler, Javi and their crews find themselves squarely in the paths of multiple storm systems converging over central Oklahoma in the fight of their lives.

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  6. Disney California Adventure Park

    Explore Disney California Adventure Park, where some of your favorite Disney, Pixar and Super Hero stories come alive! Plan a visit to Disneyland Resort in California and immerse yourself in pure fun—from attractions, Character sightings, dining, shopping and more.

  7. 30 Must-Do Adventures in California

    We've culled together 30 must-do California outdoor adventures and destinations below. From easily accessible yet strikingly scenic waterfalls and state parks to multi-day backpacking excursions and demanding climbing routes, there's something in here for everyone. Let us know what's on your California must-do list in the comments section below.

  8. 25 Amazing Adventures For Your California Bucket List

    5. Camp at Joshua Tree's White Tank Campground. Photo: Tiffany Nguyen. Joshua Tree is one of California's most unique and completely awe-inspiring landscapes. The rock formations are out of a science fiction movie and camping at White Tank Campground is a perfect base camp for adventuring around the park. Learn more.

  9. The Ultimate California Adventure Rides List

    Disney California Adventure Park, however, is a tribute to California's iconic landmarks and Hollywood dreams, with areas like Buena Vista Street that harken back to the 1920s Los Angeles. Both parks have implemented the Lightning Lane feature, allowing guests to skip the lines for an additional fee.

  10. North Coast » Adventure.Travel

    It is the California of 50 years ago; no traffic, no crowds, fresh air, and undiscovered! You can get out and explore this natural environment in a relaxed or adventurous way. From rugged hiking, surfing, and kayaking to beach combing, wine tasting, and bird watching; the North Coast has something for every type of adventurer.

  11. Disney's California Adventure One Day Itinerary

    Best Tours and Experiences in Disneyland: Save $25 on Los Angeles 5-day Go Card including Universal Studios Hollywood! Whale-Watching and Orange County Beaches Tour from Anaheim (A great adventure!) Universal Studios Round Trip Transportation from Anaheim.

  12. California Adventure Travel Trips and Tours

    California Adventure Travel Tours and Trip Packages . Compare Top California Adventure Travel Tours from Backroads, OARS, NOLS and more! Perhaps no other destination in the world has as many well-known spots as California. Just mention Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf, the Hearst Castle, Disneyland, the Griffith Observatory, or the ...

  13. Inland Empire » Adventure.Travel

    From lively cities to outdoor adventures, the Inland Empire has a vast diversity in what it offers the adventurer. Elevations range from 11,499 feet at the top of the San Gorgonio Mountain to −220 feet at the Salton Sea. Plus this southern California region experiences all four seasons so there's never a chance of being bored.

  14. Disney California Adventure One Day Itinerary [2024]

    Disney California Adventure One Day Itinerary [2024] June 11, 2024. In this post we walk you through the process of planning a day at Disney California Adventure at Disneyland resort. We're focusing just on that one park—not the other park at the resort, Disneyland park. We'll introduce what the itinerary covers before walking through an ...

  15. Disney California Adventure: The Complete Guide

    Anaheim, CA 92802, USA. Phone +1 714-781-4636. Web Visit website. The sister park to the original Disneyland, Disney California Adventure opened in 2001 as a celebration of the Golden State. While it still retains some California-centric nods (especially the lovely, retro Buena Vista Street just inside the front gate), it has morphed into a ...

  16. 12 Best Adventure Tours in California 2024/2025

    10 Best Adventure Tour and Travel Companies. 10 Best Budget Adventure Tours 2024/2025. From Yosemite National Park to San Francisco, search for an California adventure tour tailored just for you! With 12 packages and real reviews, you can save big with TourRadar Active travel deals!

  17. Ultimate California Bucket List: 75 Things You Must Do & See

    54. California Adventure California Adventure (Photo by Go Travel California) Located right next to Disneyland is Disney's California Adventure Park. Since it's so close, you can visit both in one trip - spend a day or two in each park. We love the food at California Adventure and find that the rides and experience is so much different ...

  18. Best of California in United States, North America

    9 days, Las Vegas to Los Angeles. Desert heat, pine forests, and coastal breezes are the main features of this trip through some of the best scenery that the American West has to offer. Travel to a land of extremes in Death Valley, tip your head back to see the tops of the tallest trees in the world in Sequoia National Park, witness the majesty ...

  19. Disney California Adventure Guide 2024

    San Fransokyo Square officially opened on August 31, 2023 - featuring sights, shops, and cuisine from the industrious city in Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Big Hero 6.". This reimagined area of Disney California Adventure Park is a fictional mash-up of two iconic cities - San Francisco and Tokyo.

  20. California Adventure Travel for Teens

    The Bold Earth California Adventure teen travel summer camp is a great chance for kids ages 14-16 to raft, hike, surf, sea kayak, climb, do service, & more!

  21. California » Adventure.Travel

    Adventure Videos From California. Adventure Stories From California. Travel Specialists Operating in California. Tour Operators. Explore Another Region.

  22. Adventure Treks

    Your best summer yet. Adventure Treks is more than just a summer camp for teens. Our multi-week outdoor adventure travel programs help young adults build life skills for future success—all while having the time of their lives exploring the wildest areas on the planet. Learn more.

  23. Wilderness Travel

    Get inspired for your next journey with our 2024-2025 Catalog of Adventures! With award-winning photography and over 200 journeys around the world, it is truly a Dream Book that will grace your coffee table and feed your wanderlust. request Print Catalog. Digital Catalog.

  24. California Travel Adventures

    The Napa Lighted Art Festival - a captivating celebration of creativity and culture nestled in California's renowned wine country. Le... February 09, 2024. Exploring Benicia's Downtown Charm. Nestled along the scenic shores of the Carquinez Strait, the quaint city of Benicia boasts a downtown that beckons residents and visitors a...

  25. California Dreaming: A Guide To Planning Your Golden State Adventure

    California has a vast network of roads, rail, and airports, which are constantly being upgraded to ensure safer travel. However, the state ranks high in vehicle-related accidents, especially DUIs. Therefore, it is advised to use a reputable taxi service or, if renting a car, to be cautious and avoid driving under the influence.

  26. Top Travel Destinations for Retirees

    A stroll through a winery in Napa Valley, a day at the beach and a tour of Alcatraz make the bucket list for many retirees. California has more national parks than any other state, including ...

  27. What Is Planespotting: Guide to Watching Airport Takeoffs ...

    Planespotting, the act of obsessing over airplanes at airports, is a popular activity for aviation enthusiasts. Meet two LA brothers who turned the activity into a full-time YouTube career.

  28. 15 Thrilling American Road Trips for the Ultimate Adventure

    Pacific Coast Highway, California Cruise along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway for stunning ocean views, winding roads, and picturesque coastal towns. Start your journey in …

  29. WATCH Deadpool & Wolverine [2024] FuLLMovie Free Online On 123MOVIES

    California City, CA, USA. See more photos. Jennifer Loeffler. Email address verified; Jul 26 - Aug 31, 2024. Group size: 1 - 25. ... Adventure Travel Affinity Group Travel Custom & Luxury Travel Event & Fan Travel Faith-based Travel Leisure Travel Student, ...