California is a unique and diverse state rich in history and culture offering travelers a wealth of vacation destinations including beautiful beaches and coastal towns, breathtaking natural scenery, and some of the best shopping, dining, and nightlife in the United States.
Perhaps California’s two most popular tourist destinations are Los Angeles and San Francisco.
When visiting Los Angeles, there are a number of recognizable landmarks and must-see attractions that should not be overlooked. Visitors will find famous landmarks such as the Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, Universal and Warner Bros Studios, Disneyland, and the iconic beaches of Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Malibu.
Not to be outdone, San Francisco is brimming with attractions. Known for its widely recognizable Golden Gate Bridge, the City by the Bay lives up to its reputation. Visitors can tour the once-famous prison on Alcatraz Island which is now part of the National Park system, ride the iconic San Francisco Cable Cars, or visit historic Chinatown known for its famed shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Another well know area that deserves mentioning is California’s wine country. Napa Valley and Sonoma County are a couple of the most famous wine regions in the world, with many vineyards and wineries open to visitors. Visitors can take tours of the vineyards, sample the wines, and learn more about the winemaking process.
For those who love the outdoors, California is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. Yosemite National Park is overflowing with natural treasures including towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Next door to Yosemite National Park are the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks which are known for their giant sequoia trees, deep canyons, rugged foothills, and raging rivers. All three National Parks offer excellent hiking trails, rock climbing, campgrounds, picnic areas, scenic drives, and overlooks. The parks can be accessed year-round but some facilities and roads may be closed during the winter months due to snow.
For those with a more adventurous spirit, California has plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as snowboarding, skiing, and rock climbing. Lake Tahoe is one of the top destinations for winter sports, while Joshua Tree National Park is a popular destination for rock climbing.
With so much to do and see, California is a must-see vacation destination. Whether you come for the culture, history, natural wonders, or you are just looking to relax, the free California Travel and Vacation Guide is sure to have something special for you.