California, otherwise known as the Golden State, became the 31st state of the US in 1850 and is home to about 39 million people. Each year, many tourists visit this Golden State to soak in the sunny beaches, sandy deserts, surreal lakes, and dense forests. California also boasts some incredible wine vineyards where tourists can go wine tasting as they learn about the winemaking process. There is so much to do in California that you may not be able to fit it all in one trip. Here is a list of fun things you must do while in California.:
Hike through Death Valley National Park
In the 1800s, many pioneers lost their lives as they trekked through the rocky and snake-infested landscapes of the Death Valley National Park. This landmark is also the lowest on the continent at a staggering 280 feet below sea level. Join the scores of tourists who come here for biking, hiking, and camping and to see for themselves how this place got its name. You might also fancy visiting Furnace Creek, which is said to have the highest air temperatures in the world.
Slide at the OUE Skyspace
The OUE Skyspace is one of the tallest observation decks in California and is frequented by numerous adrenalin junkies who love to get their heart rate up. It takes lots of courage to get to the top and see the city from a bird’s eye view. But that’s not all, and you will be required to slide down a giant, transparent glass to the ground. The slide is perfectly safe, and there are plenty of additional activities in OUE Skyspace, such as an open bar and music performances.
Go to the Venice Beach Boardwalk
If you love vibrant crowds, then you shouldn’t leave California before you visit the Venice Beach Boardwalk. The party here never stops, and the people here are always full of energy. You can do lots of activities at the beach walk, such as taste some scrumptious street food, visit fortune tellers, and watch jugglers and street musicians do their thing.
Wine tasting at Santa Cruz Vineyards
Napa Valley isn’t the only serene place you can go to sip on some sweet red wine. At the Santa Cruz Vineyards, there is something for everyone. Whether you like a rustic hike or prefer a soothing and laid-back atmosphere, you are assured of a great time. A few examples of vineyards in Santa Cruz you can visit include Ridge Vineyards, Beauregard, and MJA vineyards. If you have never gotten a chance to stop on grapes before, here is your golden opportunity!
Visit Disneyland
It would be unfortunate to visit California with your kids and not plan a trip to Disneyland. Disneyland is bursting at the seams with entertaining activities such as jungle cruises, haunted houses, and lots of fun games. Your kids will never stop talking about their experience in Disneyland, and you will get to see first-hand why this is the happiest place on Earth.
Check out Old Sacramento
History fanatics will have a blast at Old Sacramento, where they will get a chance to step back in time. You will get to learn California’s role in US history and soak in the old museums, railways, and buildings that still stand to this very day. Enjoy a train ride through Old Sacramento and learn about the Gold Rush, among many other historical facts.
Explore the best eateries in California
California is home to many celebrity chefs, not to mention the diverse population that has resulted in a wealth of culinary traditions. Give your taste buds a treat by exploring the various fine dining establishments such as Manresa, Mini Kabob, and rio grande churrascaria steakhouse. You are guaranteed to enjoy food from diverse cultures!
Visit the Hollywood sign!
The Hollywood sign is the most iconic symbol in the history of filmmaking, and it is located over the cliffs of Hollywood Hills. Who wouldn’t want a selfie with these world-famous, white letters in the background? You could also hop on an elevator near the cliffs to try and get a closer look at this renowned landmark.
Tour the Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz was home to all kinds of dangerous convicted felons back in the day before it was closed. You can now hop on a ferry and visit the island to see the prison cells and listen to its history in your native language. While on Alcatraz Island, you could also explore numerous abandoned military fortresses and visit the local lighthouse. Imagine feasting your eyes on the very cell that housed George “Machine Gun” Kelly!
Enjoy nature at Lassen Volcanic National Park
Most parks are closed to tourists during off-peak seasons, but not Lassen Volcanic National Park. Though this park was built on a dormant volcanic island, you can still explore various bubbling mud pits, steaming geysers, and black lava rocks. Depending on the weather and the time of the year, you could indulge in alpine skiing or backpack hiking.
Sail on the RMS Queen Mary
The Queen Mary was once a giant, renowned ocean liner that sailed between Great Britain and America before it retired in the 1960s. The Government made a wise choice and converted this cruise ship into one massive and unique tourist attraction. You can visit The Queen Mary in the harbor of Long Beach and engage in fun activities such as shopping and sightseeing at the museum.
See the haunted Winchester Mystery House
Feast your eyes on the architectural oddity that is the Winchester Mystery House. This huge, Victorian-style mansion has hundreds of oddly-shaped doors and lots of staircases that lead nowhere in particular. Legend has it that the lady who built this mansion couldn’t handle her grief after the death of her husband and became unhinged. Others say she incorporated this unconventional architectural style to confuse the ghosts of the people her husband killed.
Final remarks
Well, there are lots of things to do in California. Take your pick and ensure you check the rules and restrictions of the destination you would like to visit. Have fun!
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