Born and raised in the Golden State, I’m never short on recommendations for amazing California cities you must visit, from star-studded Los Angeles to sun-soaked Napa. Looking to plan a memorable trip? Check out the following seven iconic California cities you must visit, and get ready to set off on the vacation of a lifetime.
Snapshot Survey
Snapshot Survey
1. San Francisco
Recognized by many as one of the ultimate California cities you must visit, San Francisco is unrivaled in its unique beauty and culture. While there are many exciting things to do and see, no trip to the City by the Bay would be complete without driving, biking or walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, along with taking photos of the bridge as seen from the northeast and southeast sides. Alcatraz Island, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, is definitely worth a visit, as is Fisherman's Wharf, home to chocolate-lovers’ haven Ghirardelli Square, the Aquarium of the Bay and plenty of amazing seafood stands and restaurants.
2. Los Angeles
Having grown up in a suburb of Los Angeles, I’m definitely no stranger to the many fun attractions this city and its surrounding region have to offer. Kick back at Venice Beach, learn about ancient cultures at the J. Paul Getty Museum and enjoy viewing the night sky at the Griffith Observatory. Hoping to do a little star-gazing of another kind? Head to Hollywood to explore such well-known landmarks as Grauman's Chinese Theatre, the Hollywood Bowl and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. For theme park excitement, plan to spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm or Six Flags Magic Mountain.
3. San Diego
San Diego, another of California’s most amazing cities, is a wonderful place for a family vacation. Start your trip off with a visit to LEGOLAND California Resort, located north of the city in Carlsbad, and then move on to the always exciting SeaWorld San Diego and San Diego Zoo. This area is also home to such historic San Diego neighborhoods as Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter, as well as plenty of spectacular beaches, including those located in beautiful La Jolla.
4. Napa
Wine lovers and foodies the world over flock to Napa and its surrounding region every year to experience the area’s world-renowned vineyards and restaurants. Silver Oak Cellars in Oakville and the Robert Mondavi Winery in Napa are just two of the many excellent places to enjoy wine tasting, tours and food pairings, while dining aboard the historic Napa Valley Wine Train is an experience not to be missed. The popular Oakville Grocery is also a fun and casual place to feast upon delectable gourmet sandwiches, cheeses, meats and more.
5. Sacramento
When you visit California’s capital city, you’ll have a wonderful opportunity to tour the State Capitol, discover history at Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park and stroll along streets reminiscent of the Wild West in Old Sacramento. The California State Railroad Museum is great for both kids and adults who love trains, and if you happen to be in town during the summer, you might also catch the California State Fair.
6. Mendocino
The drive up the North Coast of California on Highway 1 offers some of the most spectacular coastal views imaginable. Since the highway has plenty of great twists and turns, be sure to stop off in the small seaside towns to take in beautiful scenery, as well as enjoy some fresh seafood. One such town is Mendocino, which offers amazing views of the rocky coastline, lovely Victorian architecture and a number of fun activities nearby, such as visiting the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse and taking a ride through redwood forests on the historic Skunk Train.
7. Monterey
A jewel of California’s Central Coast, Monterey is the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. After stopping in at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, be sure to take some time to wander about the rest of the historic Cannery Row district, today home to a number of hotels, shops and restaurants. The 17-Mile Drive through nearby Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach offers incredible vistas, and the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
As you can imagine, there are plenty of other spectacular towns that could also have made the list, including Tahoe City, Eureka, Santa Barbara and Palm Springs. Have you been to any of the places listed here, and what are some of the top California cities you must visit?
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