Things to Do in California | Big Adventures and Hidden Treasures
California, the Golden State, is renowned for its diverse attractions and experiences. From grand adventures in bustling cities and iconic landmarks to intimate explorations of hidden gems, the state offers countless activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, cultural immersions, or leisurely escapes, here’s a guide to the main big and small things to do in California.
Big Things to Do in California
Explore the Golden Gate Bridge
Why Go: Walk or bike across this iconic structure in San Francisco while enjoying stunning views of the Bay and the city skyline.
Best For: Sightseers and photography enthusiasts.
Visit Disneyland Resort
Why Go: Experience the magic of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure in Anaheim with thrilling rides, parades, and themed lands.
Best For: Families and Disney fans.
Tour Yosemite National Park
Why Go: Marvel at towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoias.
Best For: Hikers, campers, and nature lovers.
Cruise Along the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
Why Go: Drive along one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world, with stops at Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Barbara.
Best For: Road trippers and ocean-view enthusiasts.
Explore Hollywood and the Walk of Fame
Why Go: Discover the heart of the entertainment industry, including the Hollywood Sign, TCL Chinese Theatre, and stars on the Walk of Fame.
Best For: Movie buffs and celebrity seekers.
Discover San Diego’s Beaches
Why Go: Relax at La Jolla Shores, Mission Beach, or Coronado Beach, with opportunities for surfing, kayaking, and beach volleyball.
Best For: Beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
Tour Napa Valley and Sonoma Wineries
Why Go: Enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and gourmet dining in California’s premier wine country.
Best For: Wine connoisseurs and food lovers.
Explore Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Why Go: Stand beneath the world’s largest trees, including General Sherman, and explore dramatic canyons and alpine scenery.
Best For: Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Experience Lake Tahoe
Why Go: Ski in the winter, hike and kayak in the summer, and soak in the natural beauty year-round.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and winter sports lovers.
Small Things to Do in California
Stroll Through Solvang
Why Go: Explore a charming Danish-inspired town with bakeries, boutiques, and windmills.
Best For: Couples and casual travelers.
Visit Columbia State Historic Park
Why Go: Step back in time in this preserved Gold Rush-era town, complete with period costumes and activities.
Best For: History buffs and families.
Hike to Burney Falls
Why Go: Discover one of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls, located in the Shasta Cascade region.
Best For: Hikers and photographers.
Explore Old Town Temecula
Why Go: Enjoy wine tasting, shopping, and dining in a historic Western-themed district.
Best For: Wine lovers and weekend travelers.
Walk Along Glass Beach
Why Go: Marvel at a beach covered in colorful sea glass in Fort Bragg.
Best For: Nature lovers and collectors.
Visit Joshua Tree Village
Why Go: Browse quirky art galleries, eclectic shops, and enjoy desert tranquility near Joshua Tree National Park.
Best For: Art lovers and desert explorers.
Ride the Balboa Island Ferry
Why Go: Take a short ferry ride across Newport Harbor and explore Balboa Island’s charming shops and eateries.
Best For: Families and romantic outings.
Take a Ghost Tour in Old Sacramento
Why Go: Dive into the spooky history of this Gold Rush town with a nighttime guided tour.
Best For: History enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
Tour the Winchester Mystery House
Why Go: Explore this architectural oddity in San Jose, famous for its staircases to nowhere and mysterious design.
Best For: Mystery lovers and architecture buffs.
Visit Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove
Why Go: Witness thousands of monarch butterflies during their seasonal migration.
Best For: Nature enthusiasts and families.
Unique Experiences in California
Hot Air Balloon Rides in Napa Valley
Why Go: Soar over vineyards and enjoy breathtaking sunrise views.
Best For: Romantic getaways and special occasions.
Explore Lava Beds National Monument
Why Go: Discover volcanic caves and lava tube formations in Northern California.
Best For: Adventurers and geology enthusiasts.
Kayak Through Channel Islands National Park
Why Go: Paddle through sea caves and observe diverse marine wildlife.
Best For: Kayakers and eco-tourists.
Tips for Exploring California
Seasonal Planning: Some activities, like skiing in Lake Tahoe or visiting the monarch butterflies, are seasonal, so plan accordingly.
Diverse Activities: Combine big attractions with small, off-the-beaten-path experiences for a well-rounded trip.
Transportation: Renting a car is ideal for exploring California’s vast regions, especially for hidden gems and road trips.
California is a state where adventure knows no bounds. Whether you’re marveling at the Golden Gate Bridge, sipping wine in Sonoma, or hiking to a secluded waterfall, the Golden State offers unforgettable experiences. From the grand to the intimate, California is brimming with opportunities to explore, relax, and discover. Start planning your journey and uncover the countless things to do in this remarkable state!
