california local tourism

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in California

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

California is one of the top vacation destinations in the United States, both for Americans and international travelers. Vibrant cities, beaches, amusement parks, and natural wonders like nowhere else on Earth make California an intriguing land of possibilities for travel.

The gateway cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles are home to some of the state's most well-known sites, from the Golden Gate Bridge to Hollywood and Disneyland. This is also where many of the top cultural attractions can be found.

But the national parks, encompassing mountains, forests, desert, coastal areas, and islands, offer their own outstanding experiences. The tallest and largest trees on Earth, the largest alpine lake in North America, and the famous sites of Yosemite, offer once in a lifetime opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Whether you are interested in doing a road trip, taking a family vacation, enjoying a city escape, or just looking to do some sightseeing, begin with our list of the top attractions in California.

1. San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge

2. yosemite national park, 3. disneyland, 4. death valley national park, 6. lake tahoe, 7. sequoia and kings canyon national parks, 8. redwood national and state parks, 9. joshua tree national park, 10. universal studios hollywood, 11. hearst castle, 12. santa catalina island, 13. channel islands national park, 14. the getty center los angeles, 15. palm springs aerial tramway, 16. griffith observatory, 17. uss midway museum.

One of the most beautiful cities in America, San Francisco should be on everyone's must-see list. The ocean and hills provide a stunning natural setting, but the quaint neighborhoods, historic sites, green spaces, inspiring cultural institutions, and relaxed attitude are what truly make this city special.

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is one of the key sights and what many people call to mind when they think of the San Francisco, and even California. The orange frame against the blue water of San Francisco Bay, or rising out of the fog that often covers the area is an unforgettable sight. You can appreciate the bridge from afar or, for a more personal experience, drive over it, walk on it, or even bike across it.

Other popular tourist attractions include Fisherman's Wharf and the infamous Alcatraz Island. This former jail is now a national park and well worth a visit. Ferries leave for the island from Pier 33 near Fisherman's Wharf.

If you have time to explore the city and are up for a little exercise, see some of the sights on foot . Families traveling with children will find a world of activities to entertain youngsters and even older children with our article on things to do with kids in San Francisco .

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Francisco
• 1-Day, 2-Day, & 3-Day San Francisco Itineraries
• Top Day Trips from San Francisco

Yosemite National Park in Northern California is one of the United States' most scenic and most visited national parks. The mountains, valleys, rivers, and spectacular waterfalls have drawn tourists, artists, and athletes here for decades. For nature lovers, a visit here is one of the best things to do in California .

Most of the key sights and things to do in Yosemite National Park are in Yosemite Valley. Carved by glaciers during the last ice age, the granite walls and huge waterfalls are some of the most outstanding features in the park. This is where you'll find the big name attractions, like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan.

Beyond the Valley are the Tioga Road and the Glacier Point Road, both of which offer access to alpine areas, lookout points, and incredible views. Sometimes overlooked by tourists but also definitely worth seeing are the giant sequoias. The largest stand is located in Mariposa Grove, in the southern part of the park.

One of the best ways to explore Yosemite is to get out into the landscape on some of the incredible hiking trails . These range from easy walks along streams and lakes to life-altering trails that will take you to the tops of mountain peaks and to famous landmark sites. If you are spending a few nights and want to set up here for a while, you'll also find a number of outstanding campgrounds in Yosemite and the surrounding area .

• From San Francisco to Yosemite: Best Ways to Get There
• From Los Angeles to Yosemite: Best Ways to Get There

Disneyland, located in Anaheim, is California's premier family destination and one of the top family vacation destinations in the US . This massive amusement park is home to all kinds of rides, games, shows, and entertainment, complete with restaurants and hotels. The park is a combination of theme rides and recreated worlds and cultures. You can find shows and other entertainment designed for both children and adults.

Long line ups and wait times have been reduced somewhat by the invention of FastPass+, which gives you the ability to book specific ride times, a hug with a character, and entertainment events. However, when kids are out of school, either for the summer, Christmas, spring break, or any other holiday, you can be sure that the park will be very busy.

Keep in mind there is more to Disneyland than just the parks. The entire Disneyland resort experience features hotels, dining, shopping at the Downtown Disney District, and the Disney Adventure Park. Although the parks are definitely what your children are here to see, you'll find something fun for everyone in the family.

Official site: https://disneyland.disney.go.com/

Death Valley National Park contains some of California's most inhospitable terrain, with extreme heat that has left this desert area strangely beautiful. Salt fields, dry parched land, sand dunes, mountains, unique rock formations, and a lake that lies below sea level create a unique landscape in this remote valley.

Some of the easiest to reach highlights in Death Valley are the sand dunes near Stove Pipe Wells, Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Dantes View. These and others are all easy to reach with a regular vehicle. If you have a 4WD vehicle, you can head out to more remote places like The Race Track.

Death Valley can be done as a day trip from Las Vegas, Nevada , but there is so much to do here, you may want to plan on spending more time. You can drive through the park and stop at lookouts; hike short trails; see the ruins of the valley's former industry; and even paddle in the shallow Badwater Lake, if there is any water in the lake at that time.

• Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Death Valley, CA
• Best National Parks in California

This beautiful stretch along the Central Coast of California offers a chance to get back to nature. Camping and hiking at Garrapata State Park and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are some of the best places for these pursuits.

Big Sur begins about four miles south of Carmel in Yankee Point and stretches along the Highway No. 1 as far as Salmon Cove, some 17 miles north of San Simeon. This scenic road offers splendid views over the picturesque coastline. To the east stretches a true wilderness - the Santa Lucia Mountains and Ventana Forests, with more than 220 miles of trails.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a great place for hikers, sunbathers, and those looking for a nature escape. The park has camping facilities and, for anyone looking for a little more comfort, the Big Sur Lodge offers a peaceful retreat in a superb location. One of the highlights in the park is Pfeiffer Falls, which is reached by the Valley View Trail. A branch off this trail leads to the Valley Overlook with views that extend to the ocean and the Big Sur River Valley.

Garrapata State Park is another popular area of Big Sur. The main attraction here is Garrapata Beach, a long, wide, crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand. Waves here can be big, and it may not be the best for swimming but it's great for taking a stroll and soaking up the sun. For those looking to get a little exercise, there are also day hiking trails in the park providing fabulous views of the coastline, mountains, and redwoods.

Stunning Lake Tahoe lies high in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and is a popular year-round vacation destination in California. Lake Tahoe is about more than just the lake, it's the forests and mountains, small towns, and multitude of activities the area offers.

The blue lake, with its turquoise coves and surrounding mountains, is a summer playground for boaters, beach goers, campers, and nature lovers. The beautiful beaches and shallow coves are some of the main draws for families visiting the area in summer. Places like D.H. Bliss State Park and Kings Beach State Recreation Area are popular beaching destinations around Lake Tahoe.

You'll find outstanding hiking trails for all abilities in the mountains and along the shoreline. Campgrounds in the area are also excellent, with many in beachfront locations or wooded areas. Much of the summertime action is centered around the beaches. In winter, the focus shifts to the ski resorts.

Lake Tahoe is also California's premiere skiing destination, with several popular ski resorts . During the winter, skiers from across the United States descend on the area to take advantage of the incredible terrain and great snow conditions.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions at Lake Tahoe

Home to the largest trees on Earth, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are bucket-list destinations . The sequoias here are the largest living things in the world, and many of them are more than 2,000 years old, with some even more than 3,000 years old.

These adjacent parks cover an area of mountains with majestic granite peaks, deep gorges, lakes, rivers, and forests, but they are quite different from each other. If you are planning on visiting both parks, you will need at least a couple of days.

Although both parks are home to the giant sequoias, Sequoia National Park is arguably the best place to visit these ancient wonders. Easy walking trails, many of them paved, meander through the trees and provide easy access to the major sites. This park is also home to Mt. Whitney, which at 14,495 feet is the highest mountain in the US (apart from Alaska).

You can find some beautiful campgrounds in Sequoia National Park , many of which are well positioned for visiting the trees and other attractions, like Moro Rock, and the famous giant sequoia known as General Sherman Tree.

Kings Canyon National Park is more rugged and wild, with jagged peaks, roaring rivers, and remote sections where you can escape the crowds and enjoy nature. This is a popular park for hiking. You'll also find some incredible campgrounds in Kings Canyon , both close to the trees, in the Grant Grove area, and in the Cedar Grove area at the far end of the 26-mile Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.

Walking through a forest of giant redwoods, towering more than 300 feet above you, feels like entering another era. Descendants of trees from the Jurassic Period, these are the tallest trees on the planet, and they are truly one of California's greatest treasures.

These jointly managed parks, which include Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, stretch out along a spectacular portion of Northern California Coast. Each offers something a little different, but in all of them you can find great hiking trails and beautiful campgrounds .

Joshua trees bring a type of magic to this otherwise lunar-like landscape, where giant boulders and rock formations create wild shapes that capture the imagination. The park covers 800,000 acres and offers a range of diverse sites that include much more than just the Joshua trees.

The Cholla Cactus Garden , where chollas stretch out endlessly along the hillside to the mountains beyond, the ruins of the historic Keys Ranch , the giant palms of the Lost Palms Oasis, and the vista from over 5,000 feet at Keys View are just some of the highlights. Also don't miss Skull Rock ; a huge rock resembling an alien skull.

If you are going to stay awhile, you may want to consider spending a night under the stars and trees at one of the fabulous campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park .

Joshua Tree National Park is less than a three-hour drive from Los Angeles and less than an hour from Palm Springs.

• Top Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
• Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park

This amusement park and movie studio is one of the most popular attractions in California, and the perfect place for families with older children and teens. Rides and sets are based on famous movies, with everything from shockingly realistic simulator rides to roller coasters, and much more.

You can tour huge sets on studio tours. Some of the most popular experiences in the park are The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Fast and Furious - Supercharged, Jurassic World, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and The Walking Dead Attraction, among others. You'll also find dining, shows, shopping opportunities, and various events held throughout the year.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Hearst Castle, officially known as the Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, was started in 1919 and built over a 28-year period, resulting in a mix of architectural styles that make it quirky and stately all at the same time. Built by newspaper baron William Randolph Hearst, the 165-room castle was never completed.

It sits atop a hill at an elevation of 1,600 feet and offers fantastic views out over the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Range. One of the major attractions here is the immense collection of art. At one time, the castle was home to the world's largest private zoo, and to this day, zebras and other exotic wildlife can be seen wandering the grounds.

The castle is located almost exactly halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Drive time from either city is approximately four hours.

Official site: http://hearstcastle.org/

Part of the Channel Islands, Santa Catalina lies about 22 miles southwest of Los Angeles. The island is a popular destination with boaters and day trippers. Avalon is the main population center and where most of the action is centered. On the other end of the island is the much smaller village of Two Harbours.

While most people come to Santa Catalina Island to wander around and enjoy a day of leisure, other popular things to do include glass bottom boat tours, scuba diving, kayaking, and parasailing. You can reach the island by ferry from San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Dana Point.

Channel Islands National Park, made up of five individual islands, is a great place to see wildlife and a little undisturbed nature. Having always been isolated from the mainland, the islands have developed independently, and as a result, have many endemic animals.

The islands are located off the Southern California coast and are only accessible by park concessionaire boats and planes, or private boats. You can learn about current conditions and arrange transport at the mainland visitor centers located in Ventura and Santa Barbara.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Channel Islands National Park, CA

The Getty Center is one of the premier museums in the United States. The museum holds treasures by great artists like Monet and Van Gogh, along with sculptures and other beautiful forms of art prior to 1900.

A visit here is also about the architecture and grounds of the museum itself. The building flows and undulates in a shimmering curtain of white, while out front, intricate gardens and waterfalls complete the scene. Be sure to check out the amazing views out over Los Angeles from one of the many patios.

Admission to the Getty Center is free.

Address: 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, California

Official site: https://www.getty.edu/

If you've ever wanted to lie by the pool in the morning and make snow angels in the afternoon, put a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway on your list of California things to do. California's desert regions are all about elevation. The higher you go, the colder it gets. In the spring, the pool and snow combo is easily accomplished.

The tramway runs for two miles and ascends up to an elevation of 8,516 feet on the slopes of Mount Jacinto. The tramway is unique in its design; each of the trams rotate as they ascend, allowing for uninterrupted views across a 360-degree panorama. In fact, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the largest of its kind in the world.

At the top, choose to be active by walking or hiking on the 50 miles of trails, or more sedate by enjoying a spectacular view over lunch or dinner at one of the two restaurants. This area offers some of the best hiking around Palm Springs .

Address: 1 Tram Way Palm Springs, California

Official site: https://pstramway.com/

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Palm Springs

One of California's greatest free attractions is the Griffith Observatory. Perched high on Mount Hollywood and overlooking the city of Los Angeles, this iconic California attraction offers not only fantastic views out over the city but also the opportunity to learn about the heavens.

Inside the observatory are six galleries devoted to all aspects of space and how we observe it. In addition to the galleries are the public telescopes, allowing you to view the heavens in a way you've never imagined.

Even if all that doesn't interest you, the parking lot is an excellent spot to get a photo of the Hollywood sign.

Address: 2800 East Observatory Road Los Angeles, California

Official site: https://griffithobservatory.org/

If you've ever wanted to explore a giant aircraft carrier and find yourself in San Diego, you are in luck. Moored right in the center of the action, the USS Midway Museum is a real-life WWII ship that has been converted to a hands-on museum.

An ideal family thing to do in San Diego , this is no boring museum. Here, you and your crew will be walking down narrow passageways, climbing ladders, and descending into the bowels of the ship. Throughout the ship are more than 60 exhibits, 29 restored aircraft, a theater, and flight simulators. Plan for three to four hours for your visit.

Address: 910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, California

Official site: https://www.midway.org/

More on California

From beach-side sunsets in SoCal to the knotted grapevines in Napa, California is an iconic travel destination with something to offer every visitor.

Outdoor lovers can hike among the redwoods, spend the day surfing, or road trip along California’s iconic coastlines on Highway 101. Those in search of an urban adventure can head to San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles for world-class nightlife, art, and culture. And of course, travelers eager for a taste of West Coast cuisine can easily fill a week (or more) sampling fresh, culturally diverse food or sipping wine at internationally-renowned vineyards.

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When’s the best time to go to California?

California is great to visit any time of year, but spring (March through May) and fall (September and October) are generally the best times to go. Both seasons bring milder temperatures in Southern California and the desert regions, while fall is cool-and-foggy Northern California’s warmest time of year.

Winter brings rain and snow, making it an ideal time to visit areas like Tahoe and Mammoth for peak ski and snowboarding conditions. If you’re in search of sun, stick to southern destinations, like San Diego, Death Valley, or Palm Springs for bright, pleasantly warm (55-70 degrees) days.

Beginning in March, much of the state warms up, giving way to incredible wildflower blooms after the winter rains. This is also when Southern California gets warmer, but hasn’t yet hit unbearably hot temperatures.

June through August, you’ll find hot (90-100 degrees) daytime temperatures in San Diego, L.A., and the desert areas, but cool evenings. Do not expect the same from San Francisco, whose position by the bay makes for foggy, cool weather for much of the summer.

How to get around California

A car will almost always be your best option for traveling within California. You can rent one from any major airport or city for between $30 and $80 per day. Amtrak also runs several train routes throughout the state, which make for a fun, easy alternative to driving up and down the coast, or inland towards Lake Tahoe and Reno, Nevada.

Flights between cities also tend to be quick and inexpensive. For example, a flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles is around 1.5 hours and can cost as little as $100 roundtrip depending on the time of year.

San Francisco is the one part of the state where you can get around without a car through a mix of public transportation, rental bikes, Ubers, and walking.

Can’t miss things to do in California

It’s nearly impossible to pick just a few things to do in a state as large and diverse as California, but some of the most iconic activities include...

• Spending a day by the beach, sunning or surfing, in San Diego or Santa Cruz
• Hiking among the redwoods at Muir Woods, Sequoia National Park, or Redwoods State Park
• Checking out the scene at Venice Beach in Los Angeles
• Walking across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
• Taking a road trip along the 101, making sure to stop in Big Sur
• Tasting and learning about how wine is made in one of California’s 12 major wine regions, like Napa, Sonoma, or Santa Barbara
• Eating your way through California’s fresh, produce-forward cuisine, influenced by the many different cultures that call the state home: Fish tacos in San Diego; Cioppino and sourdough in San Francisco; Locavore brunch by the beach in Los Angeles; and so, so much more
• Smoking weed—legally
• Visiting Disneyland, with or without the family

Food and drink to try in California

Expect to eat and drink well in California. As the “produce basket” of the United States, the state has an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables (many of which are organic), as well as seafood and locally sourced meat. As you explore, keep an eye out for local specialties, like oysters in Tomales Bay, dungeness crab on the central coast, and avocados everywhere.

Travelers here can also look forward to food from around the world, especially in urban centers like San Diego, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. From Korean-Mexican taco trucks to the best dang dim sum you’ve had outside of China, you’ll find both innovative fusions and classic iterations of international cuisines.

As for drinks, California has robust beer, cocktail, and — yes, of course — wine scenes. In urban centers like L.A. and San Francisco, as well as smaller towns throughout the state, visitors can enjoy world class mixology and cocktails at everywhere from dive bars to high-class establishments.

For wine, Napa might get most of the attention, but California actually has 12 major wine regions, each of which is worth a visit (especially if you want to avoid the Napa crowds). Beer-lovers will enjoy checking out one of California’s more iconic breweries like Russian River, Sierra Nevada, Lagunitas, and Stone Brewery, or venturing to some of its more quirky offerings, like the sours-only brews from The Rare Barrel in Berkeley.

Culture in California

The Californian culture stereotype might be a sea of sun-splashed surfers in SoCal, but thanks to diverse and multicultural communities, vibrant art, film, music, and fashion scenes, and rich histories throughout the state, there are many ways to explore culture in California.

For music, head to iconic theaters like The Greek in Berkeley, California, or one of the many music festivals hosted throughout the state: Coachella, Outside Lands, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, High Sierra Music Festival, and Bottlerock—just to name a few.

Major museums include the Getty Center, LACMA, and MOCA, and the Broad in L.A.; The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and the de Young Museum in San Francisco. Visitors can also explore art through monthly art walks in San Diego, L.A., San Francisco, and Oakland, or by DIYing a tour of each city’s public murals and art pieces.

Local travel tips for California

• Looking for that quintessential Californian sunshine and surf? Head to Southern California; the northern part of the state is actually cool and foggy for much of the year.
• No matter what time of year you visit, bring a jacket. Even if it’s beautiful and sunny during the day, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset and vary between—and even within—regions.
• Pack your hiking shoes and get outside. California has more national parks than any other state, making for endless nature to explore.
• When it comes to California wine regions, Napa is the most famous, but also the most crowded; many wineries require advance reservations. Head to Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, Mendocino, or Monterey for a more low-key wine tasting experience.

Local Resources

• 7x7 Bay Area
• Eater California
• Find L.A. Food Trucks
• San Francisco Chronicle
• San Diego Magazine
• SD City Beat

Guide Editor

Jessie Beck

Nathan Yan / Stocksy United

Twinkling cities, misty redwood forests, sun-kissed beaches, a creative local food scene and an adventurous attitude: California is instantly captivating.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite & the Sierra Nevada

Yosemite means "killer" in the Indigenous Miwok language, and in today's parlance it's indeed an impressive, awesome site. Everywhere you look in Yosemite…

Golden Gate Park

San Francisco

When Frederick Law Olmsted, architect of New York's Central Park, gazed in 1865 upon the plot of land San Francisco Mayor Frank McCoppin wanted to turn…

Griffith Observatory

Los Feliz & Griffith Park

With eyes on both the galaxy above and palm-flanked boulevards below, the Griffith Observatory hovers above LA like a hulking spacecraft. This is one of…

Haight Street

The Haight & Hayes Valley

Was it the fall of 1966 or the winter of ’67? As the Haight saying goes, if you can remember the Summer of Love, you probably weren’t here. The fog was…

Chinatown Alleyways

North Beach & Chinatown

If you look close today at the clinker-brick buildings lining these narrow backstreets, past the temple balconies jutting out over bakeries, acupuncture…

City Lights Books

No one could have predicted the cultural force City Lights would become when it first opened in 1953. Sure, it had a proletarian ethos suggested by its…

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Downtown, Civic Center & SoMa

When the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art expanded in 2016, it was a mind-boggling feat that nearly tripled the institution's size to accommodate a…

If you want to really see San Francisco, head to Coit Tower, a 1933 art deco beaut designed by Arthur Brown, Jr. and Henry Howard that sits high up on…

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Monarch Grove Sanctuary

Central Coast

Between November and February, over 25,000 migratory monarch butterflies cluster in this thicket of tall eucalyptus trees, secreted inland. During peak…

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Greater Palm Springs

This rotating cable car climbs nearly 6000ft vertically and covers five different vegetation zones, from the Sonoran desert floor to pine-scented Mt San…

Hearst Castle

Perched high on a hill, Hearst Castle is a wondrous, historic, over-the-top homage to material excess. From the 1920s into the '40s, Hearst and Marion…

Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park

Santa Barbara Wine Country

This tiny, off-the-beaten path historic site shelters pictographs painted by Chumash tribespeople over 400 years ago. The sandstone cave is protected from…

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Museum of Western Film History

More than 400 movies, not to mention numerous commercials (mostly for rugged SUVs and Jeeps), have been shot in the area. This fascinating museum contains…

Redwood National Park

North Coast & Redwoods

This park is the southernmost of a patchwork of state and federally administered lands under the umbrella of Redwood National & State Parks. After picking…

Point Bonita Lighthouse

Marin County

This historical lighthouse is a breathtaking half-mile walk from Field Rd parking area. From the tip of Point Bonita, you can see the Golden Gate Bridge…

Point Sur State Historic Park

A little over 6 miles south of Bixby Bridge, Point Sur rises like a velvety green fortress out of the sea. It looks like an island, but is actually…

In the waters of Jade Cove in 1971, local divers recovered a 9000lb jade boulder that measured 8ft long and was valued at $180,000. People still comb the…

CIA at Copia

The former food museum beside Napa's famous Oxbow Public Market has been revived as a center of all things edible by the prestigious Culinary Institute of…

Manzanar National Historic Site

Eastern Sierra

A stark wooden guard tower alerts drivers to one of US history's darkest chapters, which unfolded on a barren, windy sweep of land some 5 miles south of…

French Laundry

Napa Valley

The pinnacle of California dining, Thomas Keller’s three-Michelin-star rated French Laundry is epic, a high-wattage culinary experience on par with the…

Point Reyes Lighthouse

With wild terrain and ferocious winds, this spot feels like the end of the earth and offers the best whale-watching along the coast. The lighthouse sits…

Patrick Amiot Junk Art

Russian River Area

Prepare to gawk and giggle at the wacky Patrick Amiot sculptures gracing front yards along Florence Ave. Fashioned from recycled materials, a hot-rodding…

Wild Horse Sanctuary

Northern Mountains

Since 1978 the Wild Horse Sanctuary has been sheltering horses and burros that would otherwise have been destroyed. You can visit its humble visitors…

Redding & Around

On scale with the enormous natural features of the area, this colossal, 15-million-ton concrete dam is second only in size to Grand Coolie Dam in…

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

The Deserts

The largest state park in California, Anza-Borrego comprises a staggering 640,000 acres of land punctuated with hiking trails, canyons, palm groves and…

Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve

Along Highway 101

Two miles west of Orr Hot Springs, this 2743-acre reserve protects some of the best old-growth redwood groves within a day’s drive from San Francisco. A 2…

John Muir National Historic Site

Naturalist John Muir's former residence sits in a pastoral patch of farmland in bustling, modern Martinez. Though Muir wrote of sauntering the Sierra…

Willow Creek China Flat Museum

Pop over to this museum to take in its persuasive Bigfoot collection. Footprints, handprints, hair…it has all kinds of goodies to substantiate the ole boy…

Earthquake Fault

Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Mountain is the product of millions of years of volcanic activity, so it should be no surprise that the region surrounding it is full of…

Cesar E Chavez National Monument

San Joaquin Valley

This newly designated national monument, Nuestra Señora Reina de la Paz, is the national headquarters of the United Farmworkers of America and was the…

Graziano Family of Wines

The Italian Graziano family is one of the oldest grape-growing families in Mendocino County and specializes in ‘Cal-Ital’ wines – including Primitivo,…

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California and beyond

15 Places to Visit in Southern California

From sun-soaked beaches to snow-covered peaks, from a crowded amusement park to solitary hikes in a national park, from painted deserts to museums the celebrate street art, from dangling grapevines to towering palms, and from movies sets to stunning sunsets, these are the 15 must-visit spots that make up a quintessential Southern California itinerary when you’re ready to go from California dreaming to planning a dream vacation. 

Courtesy of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board 

Come for the sun, stay for the stars, movie stars, that is. The entertainment industry is usually what first pops into mind when anyone mentions California and Hollywood is at the epicenter of the biz. Film buffs can hunt down locations IRL, find their favorite celebrity on the Walk Of Fame , and ogle the TCL Chinese Theatre ’s foot-printed forecourt. With any luck, you’ll be there on movie premiere day. Hike to the original Bat Cave, Hollywood Sign, and the observatory in Griffith Park. Tour studios like Warner Bros. , Paramount , and Universal . Pop in to admire the recently restored David Hockey pool at the historic Hollywood Roosevelt. Make like Leo and Brad by sipping martinis at the 100-year-old Musso & Frank . Famous graves and summer movies make Hollywood Forever cemetery a worthwhile stop as well. 

Joshua Tree National Park

TripSavvy / Chris VR

With its surreal rock formations and spiky trees, it’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a  Star Trek  shooting location or a Dr. Seuss book when visiting this national park where two desert ecosystems meet, tarantulas and tortoises cross the street, night skies twinkle brilliantly, and influencers take their wide-brimmed hats out bouldering. From Keys View crest, you can see the infamous San Andreas Fault from above. Plan far ahead to get the pick of the campsites litter during high seasons (i.e. when it isn’t a million degrees).  Be sure to explore quirky surrounding towns where hipsters, cowboys, new age practitioners, and retired folks peacefully co-exist and run art galleries, diners, crystal shops, renovated motels , and a kickass all-ages concert venue/saloon called Pappy & Harriet’s .

Santa Barbara

Mark Weber/Visit Santa Barbara

Long the playground of the posh and famous—Oprah, who lives in the community next door, is the area’s patron saint, a gig she seemed to inherit from Julia Child—the picturesque enclave occupies a narrow crescent wedged between soaring ridges and the rollicking sea. It has all the trappings necessary for a successful long weekend: natural beauty, fresh air, pampering accommodations and spas, star-worthy cuisine that takes advantage of local delicacies like uni, finger limes, and spot prawns, arresting Spanish architecture, daily farmers markets, water sports, historical ( the mission , Chumash, cave paintings) and cultural ( Santa Barbara Bowl ) attractions, and shopping (State Street). And did we mention its wine country (see  Sideways ) and urban wine trail , which grow in size and prestige every year.

 Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort 

How could we not include the original Disneyland on this list? It’s the happiest place on Earth after all. Especially after the pioneering 65–year-old theme park added a whole new land, Galaxy’s Edge, inspired by the Star Wars franchise in 2019. Now kids and kids at heart can mingle with Mickey Mouse, Caribbean pirates, the Little Mermaid, Woody, and Kylo Ren all in the same day while stuffing their faces with churros, Tiki Room Dole Whips, and blue milk. Extend your Anaheim stay to experience the companion park, Disney California Adventure (where they serve alcohol!), and the retail/dining district between them.

Brett Shoaf/SanDiego.org

The eighth largest city in the United States is no slouch in the tourism department. Its résumé flaunts 70 miles of scenic coast, 266 days of sunshine annually, the state’s best fish tacos, endless outdoor pursuits and urban delights, the second-ever certified carbon neutral airport in North America, and its hop-notch title as the Craft Beer Capital of America. That was earned with 160 breweries, 55 tasting rooms, a brewers guild, a beer week, various fermentation festivals, tasting tours, and a forthcoming museum. Its very southern positioning allows visitors to border hop to Mexico, by foot no less, for day trips while still hunker down at luxurious resorts like the Hotel del Coronado by night.

Miracle Mile Museum Row

Courtesy of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board

Learn something along this mid-city stretch of Wilshire Boulevard between Fairfax and La Brea Avenues encompassing LA’s Museum Row. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is about to get a facelift, but much of its collection remains on display. It’s where Insta icon  Urban Lights , Chris Burden’s installation made of 202 street lamps, resides. The La Brea Tar Pits , still-bubbling pits of black goo where paleontologists have unearthed 3.5 million fossils, and their corresponding museum share LACMA’s complex as will the movie-centric Academy Museum (opening December 2020). Across the street, you’ll find Petersen Automotive Museum , a car collection worth heavy traffic, and the Craft Contemporary for folk art/crafts.

Palm Springs

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

It’s cliché, but true: Palm Springs and the cities that surround it are a FOMO-generating oasis of midcentury masterpieces ( Modernism Week is a design nerd must!), raucous pool parties, funky hotels, that pink door , decadent brunches ( Cheeky’s is a must!), vintage stores, bangin’ music fests, dusk tennis matches, and date shakes in a gorgeous but harsh desert. It’s where cool kid vibes meet old Hollywood glamour and where stressed-out Angelenos, the LGBTQ community, and frostbitten snowbirds seek escape. Downtown and the design district are pedestrian friendly and filled with numerous places to dine, drink, and dance. Craving a more spirited sojourn? Try riding the aerial tramway up to Mt. San Jacinto State Park or a bumpy dusty off-road Jeep tour .

Big Bear Lake

Chris Kaufman/Visit California 

Seeking alpine adventure? Look no further than Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino National Forest, a hundred miles northeast of LA. It promises four seasons of fun. Winter brings skiing, tubing, and snowboarding at Bear Mountain and Snow Summit . Spring and summer are perfect for fishing, swimming, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Enjoy leaf peeping and Oktoberfest in autumn. Thankfully, s’mores and cabin chills defy seasonal categorization and can be done in rentals that dot 22 miles of shoreline or at the sleepaway camp chic Noon Lodge . Families can partake in a ropes course, the zoo, escape rooms, bowling, go-karting, and pastries at Sister My Sister Bakery in the village.

Balboa Park

Melanie Stocker/SanDiego.org 

The National Historic Landmark founded in 1868 is San Diego’s Central Park equivalent. (Actually, it’s almost double the size.) Within its 1,400 verdant acres, it boasts 19 gardens, 17 museums and cultural institutions covering science, nature, photography, art, local history, and aviation, 10 dedicated performance venues, the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ, and one gold standard zoo . From Arctic foxes to endangered zebras, it’s easy to spend an entire day admiring the 650-plus species. If the kids still have energy to spare, there’s a miniature train, vintage carousel, and very tall observation tower. A museum dedicated to the city’s annual Comic-Con will soon join the roster. It’s also a great place for a picnic, a round of golf or lawn bowling, or taking a dance class .

Downtown Los Angeles

There was a time, not so long ago, when no one went downtown for fun with any regularity. Not residents, and certainly not tourists. A trip to DTLA usually meant you scored Lakers tickets or a jury duty summons. Now, it’s the most happening part of town, a city center the city has long lacked, with critically acclaimed dines ( Bestia , Majordomo, Guerrilla Tacos ), buzzy watering holes ( Birds & Bees , Everson Royce Bar ), green spaces, street art, immersive experiences, food halls, galleries and retail ( The Last Bookstore ), theaters and music clubs, art museums like The Broad (Yayoi Kusama!), a new soccer club and stadium where matches are pure spectacle, and an explosion of new hotels at a variety of price points ( Wayfarer , The Ace Hotel , InterContinental , Proper ). It also reflects the population’s diverse makeup as its borders engulf Chinatown, Little Tokyo, the Latino-heavy Westlake, and districts dedicated to fashion, art, flowers, finance, jewelry, and produce. 

Huntington Beach

Christian Heeb/Visit California 

The name is a bit of a misnomer considering Surf City USA is comprised of five distinct beaches stretching uninterrupted for 10 miles and providing beginners and pros alike with consistent year-round swell. If you’ve ever wanted to learn, it’s a great place to take lessons. Or simply watch the seasoned ride waves under the pier or at summer’s Vans US Open , the world’s largest surf competition. Over at Dog Beach, even pups shred. Further immerse yourself in board culture at the museum, the walk of fame, surf shops, and in diners where surfers tell tall tales over fat breakfast burritos. If hanging 10 isn’t your jam, the wide swaths of sand are perfect for sunset viewing, sandcastle building, barbecues, bonfires, and, of course, long walks on the beach. Camping at Bolsa Chica is fun but so is staying at a resort like Paséa with its beach butlers, hoodie robes, and tranquil spa.

Courtesy of Ojai Trail Riding Company 

There’s something magical about this rural town in the foothills above Ventura. Maybe it’s the bucolic splendor of massive oaks, fragrant citrus groves, the craggy creekbeds, lavender farms, steep surrounding mountains, and clarity of light, which results in a regular sunset spectacle colloquially nicknamed “the pink moment.” Perhaps it’s the unexpected vibrancy of its main street, dining scene, arts programming, and maker community. (You can find local takes on honey, beard oil, craft beer , jewelry, kombucha , candles, toiletries, pottery, olive oil , and dreamcatchers.) Possibly it’s the diversity of lodging that appeals as guests can choose from a historic Five Diamond , upcycled motels , quaint B&Bs, or a collection of Airstreams . Or it could be the simple fact that people still smile at strangers as they pass on sidewalks and the world’s largest open-air bookstore can operate on the honor system. Probably all of the above.

Catalina Island

Carol Highsmith/VisitCalifornia 

Twenty-six miles across the sea, the island of romance with tropical trees and salty air is waiting. So goes the 1957 pop song about of the only developed member of the Channel Islands archipelago. Happy to report not much has changed since chewing gum heir William Wrigley owned the place. There’s still one main town (Avalon) punctuated by a striking 1929 red-roofed Casino, walking is the most used mode of transportation, taffy is sold at the shop where Marilyn Monroe worked, and buffalo, descendants of a herd brought over for a 1920s movie shoot, still roam the backcountry alongside an adorable fox only found here. It’s just now you can see them while on a bio-fueled Hummer safari after zip-lining, scuba diving in crystalline waters, or sipping signature Buffalo Milk cocktails at the beach club.

The Flower Fields At Carlsbad Ranch

Evgeny Yorobe Photography/Courtesy of Visit Carlsbad 

Every spring (approximately March to May), this Oceanside burb in San Diego’s North County explodes in a rainbow of ranunculus rows. The Flower Fields, family run for generations, is 50 acres of social media goals thanks to sunset wine tastings, teas, yoga wagon rides, an orchid greenhouse, a maze, more poinsettia species than you ever knew existed, a vintage playground, and staged vignettes tucked among the blooms. Many of Carlsbad ’s best bars, restaurants and hotel spas create cocktails, dishes, and treatments inspired by the attraction for the annual Petal To Plate promotion. And with the 2020 opening of the destination’s first hotel that overlooks the crops, The Cassara , it has never been easier for petal pushers to maximize their visit.

Venice Beach

Neighboring Santa Monica, Venice became one of California’s original tourist destinations more than 100 years ago when Abbot Kinney used his deep pockets and imagination to construct Italian-inspired canals, islands, a saltwater lagoon with gondolas, shopping colonnades, and a roller coaster. Today, some of the pull is the same—canals with ornate bridges (although not Kinney’s), a pier, grade-A dining, great shopping on the founder’s namesake boulevard, cafes, street performers, and festivals. Other draws came with time as new bohemians, skate punks, bodybuilders, rich folks, artists, and tech bros all claimed the eclectic neighborhood as their own. The intermixing makes for phenomenal people watching, especially along the boardwalk, in front of dispensaries, and at the Muscle Beach gym and skate park.

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15 california travel tips for your first trip.

California is one of the most diverse and exciting places in the United States. With its stunning coastline, world-class cities, incredible natural parks, and vibrant cultural scene, it’s no wonder that California is a must-visit on many traveler’s lists.

If you’re planning your first trip to California, there are a few things you should learn first, so you can have an amazing time without having to learn these lessons DURING your trip.

Since this is such a large and diverse state, you’re going to need to be armed with the best travel tips that will help you get around safely and easily, without mishaps. Here are 15 California travel tips to help you make the most of your adventure.

» You might be interested in Southern California vs Northern California: Which Destination is Right for You?

California Travel Tips

Don’t try to do everything.

California is a huge state and there is so much to see and do. If you’ve started planning a trip, you already know this. The distance from San Francisco to Los Angeles is 6 hours of driving, without traffic, and without stops.

If you’re thinking you can see it all, you’re going to be disappointed when Google tells you otherwise. My best tip for new visitors to California is “ don’t try to do everything “.

I know that seems like common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people try to plan a crazy trip that leaves them dissatisfied with the experience – and maybe even blaming California for it. I mean, that traffic!

Instead of rushing, pick a few key places you really want to visit and take the time to enjoy them. Road trips in California are usually designed so you can see a lot of things between 2 major cities. Here are a few of ours you might enjoy.

• 12 Epic California Road Trip Routes
• The Perfect San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip
• The Perfect Northern California Road Trip
• The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Plan According to the Season

California is vast and its weather can vary significantly from region to region. Coastal areas tend to have moderate temperatures year-round, while inland regions can experience scorching summers and cold winters.

Research the areas you plan to visit, including what the weather is both day and night. You might want to change your plans depending on the heat in a particular location. For instance, it can be quite cold in Joshua Tree in the winter, but it gets up to 100 degrees F during the summer. Maybe you want to go there during the shoulder season instead of July.

If you’re visiting Disneyland , remember that there are school holidays that make visiting there not so fun. Be sure to check school calendars and their own events calendar to know what you’re getting into.

Some areas in Northern California get a lot of snow during the winter and the season starts earlier and goes later than you might think. Be sure to check whether it’s likely your destination will have snow when you visit so you can plan accordingly.

• When is the best time to visit Santa Barbara?
• When is the best time to visit Joshua Tree?
• When is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park?

Rent a Car or RV

Public transportation can be limited, especially outside of major cities. If you plan on exploring multiple areas, you’ll need to rent a car for the most flexibility. Even inside of major cities, like Los Angeles and San Diego, the public transportation options are slim. You won’t necessarily be able to get around on foot or even by bus.

If you’re not sure, try to plan your city itinerary with public transportation options only, then you can add in a car for the days you think you might need to leave the city, or to see other areas further outside the city.

Since it costs quite a bit to park at hotels in the city, you might want to build your itinerary so that you will have a few car-free days in the city first, then rent a car for the day trips you might take later on.

We also recommend renting an RV if you’re planning to do California on a budget and stop at RV parks and campgrounds along your route.

Visit the National Parks

California is home to several national parks , including Yosemite , Sequoia, and Joshua Tree . Each park offers unique landscapes and activities, so try to visit at least one during your trip.

• National parks attract a huge number of visitors, so it’s best to arrive early so you can take in the scenery before the park fills with people and/or the parking lot fills up.
• If you plan to camp you should always book in advance. Few parks can accommodate last-minute bookings as they are already full.
• If you’re planning to visit a lot of California State Parks, you can save money by getting a  California State Parks Pass  in advance. Most parks charge $8-10 a day for parking. If you plan to visit many parks, it might be more economical to buy the pass for $125.

» You might be interested in the Best Stops on a San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip.

Respect the Environment

California is known for its commitment to sustainability. As a tourist, it’s your responsibility to maintain that standard where ever you’re visiting. You also need to be aware of any issues that a place may have and do your best to observe best practices.

In California that means you need to do your part to minimize water usage. There has been a drought in California for many years and even with recent rainfall levels, there is still a chance that drought continues. Residents are often under a water usage restriction, so you should be also.

Another important thing to remember when you’re hiking in California is to stay on marked trails and always leave with anything you brought. Leaving trash on the trail isn’t responsible or respectful. Trampling the wildflowers is also not respectful.

Try Local Cuisine

California is a food lover’s paradise, thanks to its diverse cultures and rich agricultural resources, from fresh seafood in coastal towns to Mexican food in Southern California and farm-to-table dishes in wine country. Here are some of the best places to visit and their local dishes:

• Los Angeles : Known for its multicultural food scene. Visit food trucks for authentic tacos and try Korean BBQ in K-town. Don’t miss out on the city’s famous sushi restaurants, and do try the French dip sandwich, a local classic.
• San Francisco : Known for its fresh seafood and unique fusion cuisine. Enjoy Dungeness crab, clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, and the iconic Mission-style burrito.
• Napa Valley : This area is renowned for its gourmet food scene to match its world-class wines. Dine on farm-to-table cuisine, artisanal cheeses, and locally sourced dishes.
• San Diego : Famous for its Mexican-inspired cuisine. Try the local fish tacos, carne asada fries, and California burritos.
• Santa Barbara : Known for its fresh seafood. Enjoy local spiny lobster, sea urchin (“uni”), and Santa Maria-style BBQ, a local style of barbecue featuring tri-tip steak.
• Sacramento : Known as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, Sacramento’s local cuisine is all about fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Explore the Cities

As you know, California has many big cities that are actually some of the best cities to visit in the United States. I would recommend that you don’t just stick to one city during your visit. Each has its own vibe and attractions that make it unique and interesting.

San Francisco has its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Los Angeles is known for Hollywood and its beaches, while San Diego is famous for its beautiful harbor and world-class zoo.

Here are some of the city guides we’ve made so you can know what to see and do in each city.

• San Diego Trip Planner
• How to Spend 2 Days in Los Angeles
• How to Spend 2 Days in San Francisco
• How to Spend One Day in Santa Barbara

Book Accommodation in Advance

California is a popular tourist destination and accommodations can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. While it might seem attractive to just arrive with a road trip plan and wing it as far as where you’ll stay each night, it’s not a great idea.

I get the appeal of wanting to stay flexible and just stop for the night when you feel like it, but that can lead you to have no place to stay in some areas. It’s better to build a rough daily plan for yourself and at least book the accommodations you need in each area.

• Best Disneyland Hotels Within Walking Distance
• Luxury Hotels in Santa Barbara
• Where to Stay in Yosemite

Don’t Miss the Coastal Drive

Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, offers one of the most scenic drives in the world. It hugs the coastline all the way up the state, with views you won’t believe until you see it for yourself.

If you ask me, this is one of the best road trips you can take anywhere in the United States. If you are looking for a great way to see California and haven’t settled on anything yet, I’d recommend this Highway 1 road trip website.

Plan for a slow drive, with plenty of stops to admire the views. If you can swing it, plan for 1-2 full weeks to really discover the best of the best along this route.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

Traveling in sunny California requires some preparation to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Here are some tips:

• Sunscreen : Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it generously to all exposed skin and remember to reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
• Clothing : Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when possible to protect your skin. Clothes with a tight weave are better at blocking UV rays.
• Hats and Sunglasses : A wide-brimmed hat can protect your face, ears, and neck. Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays can protect your eyes and the sensitive skin around them.
• Shade : Seek shade when the sun’s rays are the strongest, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. However, remember that you can still get sunburned in the shade or on a cloudy day due to UV reflection.
• Hydrate : The sun and heat can dehydrate you quickly, especially when you’re active. Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty, to stay hydrated.
• Check the UV Index : The UV Index provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities in ways that prevent overexposure to the sun.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

There are many free things to do in California. Enjoy a stroll on the beaches, visit free museums, or explore the many vibrant neighborhoods.

Prepare for Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a part of life in California. They’re usually small. In fact, I’ve lived here for a while and I still haven’t felt one in person. But that doesn’t mean the big one won’t happen while you’re visiting. It’s important to familiarize yourself with safety procedures, in case it does.

• Familiarize yourself with the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” protocol. If you feel shaking, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck (and as much of your body as you can) under a sturdy piece of furniture or against an interior wall, and hold on until the shaking stops.
• Know the safe spots in each room (under sturdy furniture, against inside walls) and danger zones (near windows, mirrors, or heavy furniture that could fall).
• Know the emergency procedures at your hotel or the place you’re staying. Identify safe places to meet outside, and establish a way to contact family or friends to let them know you’re safe.
• Consider having an emergency kit with you that includes items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a multi-tool, a portable charger for your phone, and any essential medication.
• There are several apps that provide real-time alerts about earthquakes, which can give you a few extra seconds to get to a safe spot.
• Before your trip, learn about earthquakes and what to do in the event of one. The more you know, the better you can react in a real situation.

Enjoy Local Wine

California is one of the top wine-producing regions in the world. There are so many of them that it would take quite a while to travel to them all. I know, we’ve tried.

Take the time to visit a winery, tour the vineyards, and of course, taste some wine. Wine tasting, though it can be expensive, is a time honored pastime in California. When the sun is out and the vineyard is full of ripe grapes, there’s just nothing better.

You might try booking a wine tasting tour. Santa Barbara has some great ones. Check them out here.

Here are a few of our favorite wine regions to visit in California:

• Where to Go Wine Tasting in Sonoma
• Where to Go Wine Tasting in Napa
• Wine Tasting Tours in Santa Barbara County
• The Best Wineries to Visit in Paso Robles
• Wineries to Visit in San Luis Obispo
• 10 Great Los Olivos Wine Tasting Rooms to Visit

Don’t Skip the Hike

California is nothing if not an outdoor paradise. The weather is great almost year round in many spots, particularly Southern California. Because of this, and the incredibly varied terrain, there are numerous options for hiking, no matter where you are.

We always recommend building a few hikes into your itinerary, even if you’re in the city. Did you know there are lots of hikes within a short distance of Los Angeles? You can go hiking in Yosemite or Joshua Tree , you can go hiking near San Diego , or near Santa Barbara . There are dozens of possibilities.

Enjoy the Beaches

California’s beaches are world-famous, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy them. Here are some tips:

• Choose the Right Beach : California’s coastline stretches over 800 miles, and every beach has its own charm. Do some research to find a beach that fits your interests – whether that’s surfing, wildlife spotting, family activities, or simply relaxing.
• Safety First : Always pay attention to posted beach safety signs and flags. Watch out for rip currents and only swim in designated areas when lifeguards are present.
• Sun Protection : The sun can be intense on the beach. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, reapply regularly, and don’t forget your sunglasses and hat.
• Pack a Picnic : Many of California’s beaches have picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal with a view. Pack plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Explore Beyond the Sand : Many beaches are near hiking trails, parks, or towns with shops and restaurants. Consider renting a bike to explore the area or check out local wildlife on a nature trail.
• Leave No Trace : Help keep California’s beaches beautiful by packing out all trash and belongings at the end of the day.
• Plan for Weather : Even in sunny California, beach weather can change quickly. Check the forecast and be prepared with layers.

Visiting California for the first time is an exciting experience. With so much to see and do, it’s a destination that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. These tips will help you plan and enjoy your trip to this beautiful and diverse state. Safe travels!

» 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.

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 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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CA Visitor’s Guide, Maps and Travel Brochures – 2024

Not only will a bit of advance trip planning allow you to get the most out of your visit to California, it can also help you save you money and avoid travel missteps. Below are some resources that will help you get your planning process started.

When you click here , you’ll see an option to choose either a Single or Bulk Order, and underneath that you’ll see links to access Digital versions of the Visitor’s Guide and Road Trips Guide. The digital Visitor’s Guide has been updated for 2024, but at the time of this writing the Road Trips guide is still the 2023 publication.

A 2024 addition to Visit California’s brochure page is the mention of an “Official State Map” — although this appears to only be available to people who request a mailed guide and is not available digitally. We suspect it’s the map that was included in last year’s Road Trips Guide, which frankly is of very limited use for California vacation planning purposes. California is a BIG state to fit on an 8-1/2 x 11-inch page; consequently, it’s very difficult to see any area in detail. As you’ll see in the California Tourism Maps section below, we recommend using Google Maps. Here’s a link to a Google Map of California , and you can use the +/- buttons in the lower, right-hand corner to focus on a specific area of interest.

If you live in the U.S. or Canada and need a printed tourist guide sent to you by mail — updated in 2024 — click on the Single Order option. The next screen presents choices for Language (only English is available at the time of this writing) and Country Version (U.S. or Canada are the present choices). Once you’ve made your selections, clicking the Next button takes you to a screen at which you’ll provide your name and email address and be given an option to subscribe to the state’s email list. When you’ve completed that screen, click Next and a screen for your address details will appear. Once you’ve completed that, you’ll also need to acknowledge consent for them to mail the guide to you and then click the Submit button.

In our experience, processing and delivery within the U.S. can take anywhere from two to eight weeks. If your departure date doesn’t allow for the mail option, you may want to stop at one of the state’s Tourist Information Centers when you arrive.

California Tourist Information Centers

There are California Tourist Information Centers at various locations throughout the state — click here for the list complete with physical location, email addresses and phone numbers — where you can obtain free brochures, maps, attraction offers and lodging information once you arrive in the area.

California Tourism Maps

For each of the California Tourist Guide’s areas (see the navigation buttons at the top of the page) you’ll find a map within an article that provides a general overview of what there is to see and do there. You’ll also find links to maps that have been created by other websites in many of our articles. Most of those maps — some are for self-guided walking tours, others are for wine appellations, etc. — are made available as downloadable and printable pdf files.

When it comes to mapping out a specific route to locations that you plan to visit in California, we always use Google Maps and the associated free smartphone app. One thing worth noting here is that there are areas where you may lose cell phone reception, so if you’re traveling to an off-the-beaten path location it’s a good idea to search for the map(s) you may need before your trip and either take a screenshot or otherwise save them for offline use.

The State also provides online map resources: this one is useful if you’re wondering about current road conditions (weather, accidents, etc.), and here’s a good map for an overview of California cities and highways (again, though, we think Google Maps is the best travel planning resource for all your mapping needs, including accessing information about public transportation options).

Tourism Resources in California Cities

Visitor Information for California National Parks

All of the California National Parks also have facilities to help travelers make the most of their visits. Additionally, in February 2021 the National Park Services released a new smartphone/ipad app wherein you can access maps and information about all the Parks; app details and download access can be found at the preceding link.

Photo of Elton John wax figure at SF Welcome Center by gérard via flickr (Creative Commons).

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Regional Strategic Tourism Plans

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California was designated by the U.S. Department of Commerce for a $5 million grant to prepare strategic tourism plans for each of our 12 tourism regions. The plans aim to help tourism stakeholders, residents and civic partners prepare for the future in their destinations.

In January, Visit California signed a contract with global consulting firm JLL, allowing the formal launch of the two-year project. JLL and its partners — including Ernst&Young, Tourism Economics and the World Travel and Tourism Council — will conduct extensive research with industry stakeholders, residents and community leaders in each region.

The plans will examine the full range of tourism dynamics, from destination brand perceptions to housing imbalances, environmental challenges, workforce development, public safety issues, infrastructure priorities and digital marketing performance. Tourism businesses and DMOs will use the findings and recommendations to inform business decisions, inspire partnerships with local governments and nonprofits and build a more sustainable future for the industry. The contract with JLL requires actionable recommendations and implementation strategies in each region at the end of this process. 

Free Digital Marketing Assessment and Consultation

The Regional Plan project gives California DMOs a free digital marketing assessment and consultation. DMOs can get started at  https://www.unispheredestinations.com/visit-california   (Password: california).

View JLL's Proposal

Your engagement with this process is crucial.   As many voices as possible — from within the tourism industry and outside — are necessary to ensure the project produces comprehensive strategic tourism roadmaps that capture the opportunities and challenges in each region. The goal is to develop specific, actionable recommendations to guide decision making for the next decade.   Please use this form to provide feedback on tourism issues in your region and/or serve on a steering committee to help guide the project. Please share this page with your network so that your business partners and others across the region and state can support this vital effort. Your feedback goes directly to the team member responsible for planning in your region.

You may also email your regional lead directly:

JLL Regional Planning Team

Dan Fenton Executive Vice President, JLL

Regions Central Coast & SF Bay Area

Project Role Oversight, strategy, regional lead

[email protected]

Brian Tress Senior Strategic Advisor, JLL

Regions Los Angeles & Gold Country

Project Role Sustainability strategy advisor, regional lead

[email protected]

Ryan Foster Senior Manager, Ernst&Young

Regions Shasta Cascade & North Coast

Project Role Regional lead

[email protected]

Bethanie DeRose Senior Vice President, JLL

Regions High Sierra & San Diego

Project Role Project manager, regional lead

[email protected]

Rob Masi Principal, Ernst&Young

Regions Orange County & Inland Empire

[email protected]

Amy Horwath Senior Manager, Ernst&Young

Regions Central Valley & Deserts

[email protected]

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Calculate Assessment

How to calculate your assessment.

The tourism assessment fee is based on California gross receipts from the most current available year-end revenue data. The reporting period should match the period used to report revenue for annual tax purposes. The Tourism Assessment Program monitors the year-end dates reported to verify that a company is reporting consistently. The formula for filing your assessment is:

(Total Gross Receipts X Percentage of Tourism X Assessment Rate) See below for help with Percentage of Tourism and Assessment Rate

Click here to file your assessment online now.

Total Gross Receipts

California Gross Receipts as defined in the Tourism Marketing Act: (l) “California Gross Receipts” means gross receipts minus returns and allowances from sales in California. Examples of California Gross Receipts are the amount shown on line 1c of Schedule F, Form 100 of the California Franchise Tax Board, 1996 revision date, line 3 on Schedule C, Form 1040 of the Internal Revenue Service, 1996 revision date, or for multi-state operations, column (b) on line 3, “total sales” of schedule R-1 of the California Franchise Tax Board, 1996 revision date.

About The Assessment Rates

Effective July 1, 2015 , assessment rates are as follows:

• For Accommodations, $1,950 per $1 million of travel and tourism revenue or 0.00195
• For Restaurants & Retail, $975 per $1 million of travel and tourism revenue or 0.000975.
• For Attractions & Recreation, $975 per $1 million of travel and tourism revenue or 0.000975.
• For Transportation & Travel Services, $975 per $1 million of travel and tourism revenue or 0.000975.
• For Passenger Car Rental, 3.5% of monthly revenue.

These assessment rates apply to assessments that are delinquent as of July 1, 2015.

Percentage Of Tourism

The percentage of revenue derived from travel and tourism is determined by each business location. Tourism percentage should reflect the amount of revenue that meets the travel and tourism revenue definition.

“Travel and Tourism Revenue” means California Gross Receipts derived from expenditures to and/or within California by people who (1) travel at least fifty (50) miles from home, one way, for purposes other than commuting to work or school; or (2) have an overnight accommodation as part of the travel, regardless of the distance or purpose traveled. “Home” as used in this definition means the place where the person has resided for the most recent 31 consecutive days.

Any revenue earned by an accommodation in conjunction with an overnight stay or by a traveler more than 50 miles from home is assessable. Revenue earned from guests staying 31 continuous nights or longer is not subject to the assessment.

Revenue derived from any individual or group of persons who travel 50 miles or more to a business location is considered travel and tourism revenue for a business within the attractions and recreation, transportation and travel services, or restaurant and retail industry categories. The business location and proximity to major freeways, attractions, outlet/premium shopping malls, lodging, or destination locations and venues should be considered when determining the percentage of revenue earned from travel and tourism. In addition, the business’ credit card data, market research, consumer surveys or analysis can provide contextual information to assist in determining percentage of tourism.

Each business can use any method to determine the percentage of revenue from tourism but may be required by the Office of Tourism to provide the documentation of the findings if the percentages are inconsistent with numbers reported in the given area.

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Travel | Top 10 U.S. vacation destinations from Men’s…

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Travel | top 10 u.s. vacation destinations from men’s journal includes a california charmer.

Looking for vacation inspiration? Men’s Journal recently ranked the best vacation destinations in the country, including everything from beach towns to gastronomic treasures and adventure-packed gems. It’s a coast-to-coast, border-to-border array of 50 tempting spots, complete with tips on when to go, where to stay and what to do — and eat — while you’re there.

The top spot goes to Ouray, a Colorado mountain town the magazine editors say feels “like you’ve stepped foot in a live-action REI commercial.” But California gets several sensational shout-outs, starting with the coastal town of SLO — San Luis Obispo — at No. 3, thanks to its balmy temperatures, small town vibe and proximity to surfer-friendly beaches, rolling vineyards and winery tasting rooms.

San Francisco comes in at No. 14, with a must-see list that hits all the biggies — the Golden Gate Bridge, the California Academy of Sciences, Alcatraz and all the other places tourists congregate, snap photos and chatter about “San Fran,” the SoCal sobriquet that makes locals shudder. (Hmm, do the denizens of Los Angeles — No. 11, by the way — roll their eyes when we refer to “SoCal”?)

Also on the SoCal list: San Diego, with its 70 miles of soft, sandy beaches and lush, museum-packed Balboa Park, sits at No. 21.

You’ll find all 50 destinations, complete with restaurant and sightseeing tips, at www.mensjournal.com/travel/. Meanwhile, here’s a peek at the top 10:

10 Best Vacations in the U.S.

1 Ouray, Colorado

2 Chattanooga, Tennessee

3 San Luis Obispo, California

4 New Orleans, Louisiana

5 Bend, Oregon

6 Boise, Idaho

8 Sedona, Arizona

9 Washington, D.C.

10 Portland, Maine

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California announces first new state park in a decade and sets climate goals for natural lands

Californians will be able to use the park for hiking and picnicking, with plans for swimming and boating access in the future.

MODESTO, Calif. -- California will open its first new state park in a decade this summer, Gov. Gavin Newsom and state officials announced Monday, as the state sets targets for cutting planet-warming emissions on natural lands.

The 1,600-acre (648-hectare) Dos Rios tract in the state's crop-rich Central Valley is set to open June 12 as California's 281st state park. Located near the confluence of the Tuolumne and San Joaquin rivers, it is surrounded by vast almond orchards and dairy pastures. Californians will be able to use the park for hiking and picnicking, with plans for swimming and boating access in the future.

Ali Manzo, a Central Valley native and California State Parks interpreter, said the new park will help bring people together and allow them to develop a deeper respect for nature.

"Dos Rios is not just a park," Manzo said. "It's a community treasure that offers peace, adventure and a vital connection to nature."

Manzo joined the governor, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and civil rights icon Dolores Huerta to announce the new park.

The Earth Day announcement comes as Newsom unveiled new targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions on natural lands. The plan sets out to reduce the risks of wildfires, expand forest cover and restore wetlands. Newsom said the targets would move the state closer toward achieving its mandate of carbon neutrality, meaning it will remove as many carbon emissions from the atmosphere as it emits, by 2045.

"These are stretch goals, unquestionably," the Democratic governor said. "The good news is we're making real progress."

Newsom did not say what success would look like for implementing the targets. His administration did not release an estimate for how much the plan would cost the state, which is facing a massive projected budget deficit.

The targets come out of a law Newsom signed in 2022 requiring the state Natural Resources Agency to work with other agencies to create a plan to reduce emissions from natural lands.

The plan aims to reduce the risks of wildfires across nearly 53,000 square miles (138,000 square kilometers) of land by 2045 through methods that include burning vegetation that can make wildfires more intense. The state also plans to plant 4.2 million trees, manage and restore 1.6 million acres (647,000 hectares) of grasslands, and protect more than 233,000 acres (94,000 hectares) of wetlands and seagrasses along that timeline.

California has spent about $9.6 billion since 2020 on efforts to address climate change using the state's natural lands.

Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot called the plan "a big deal" because the state has focused much of its climate policy on reducing emissions from other areas, such as the energy sector, and less so from natural lands.

"We know we have to reduce pollution significantly, but we also need to improve the health of our landscapes to actually remove carbon dioxide from the air," Crowfoot said.

In recent years, the state has approved the eventual phasing out of the sale of new fossil fuel-powered cars, lawnmowers, and large trucks that transport goods through ports and trains powered by diesel.

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Travel | Travel: How to spend 6 perfect days in the…

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Travel | travel: how to spend 6 perfect days in the scottish lowlands.

When one dreams of vacationing in Scotland, it’s the Highlands and not the Lowlands that comes to mind. Don’t take our word for it; even the national tourism board touts the Scottish Highlands as “the Scotland of your imagination and the perfect backdrop for your next adventure” on its website. And on National Geographic’s list of “Best of the World” destinations, only the Highlands gets love.

OK, so the Scottish Lowlands isn’t home to the monstrously legendary Loch Ness, majestic Cairngorms National Park, a historically rich clan culture or the setting of Mel Gibson’s bloody good film, “Braveheart.”

But while that and more causes Scotland’s southern side to bow to its northern neighbor in terms of tourism, the Scottish Lowlands is no plaid-clad red-headed stepchild in a nation that — fun fact — has the world’s highest percentage of redheads with about 13% of the populace. Speaking of numbers, nearly one out of every four overseas visitors to the northernmost country of the United Kingdom arrives from the U.S., according to VisitScotland ( visitscotland.com ).

So, with that in mind and knowing how much we Yankees love an underdog story, let’s ponder highlights of a perfect six days exploring the Lowlands through an American’s eye — taking roads less traveled while taking in rolling hills, gentle valleys, rugged coastline and quaint towns each more gorgeous than the next.

Breezing through Edinburgh Airport, you shuttle to the city’s newest major hotel. The 244 rooms of the W Edinburgh, the first in Scotland for the upscale brand, are spread across three buildings, and yours is in the 12-story tower that sticks out from the traditional architecture around it. Mixed as the opinions are over the building’s “walnut whip” roof, staying at a hotel topped with a giant chocolate swirl comes in handy when finding your way back after a day of sightseeing by foot. Nestled in the heart of the newly trendy St. James Quarter, the W ( marriott.com ) is within walking distance of every must-see in the city center. Refreshed from down time in your gadget-happy suite, you’re ready to see just how perfectly located your hotel is. (Rates for a standard room start at $371 a night.)

Hoofing it to Edinburgh Castle, the city’s most iconic landmark, offers a lesson in 3,000 years of history at the site of ghastly battles dating back to the Iron Age. You could spend an entire day here, but an afternoon date with some bottles of booze have you leaving the castle for a quick visit to the nearby National Museum of Scotland and its countless artifacts.

A time check of 3:30 p.m. has you scurrying to the Scotch Whisky Experience ( scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk ) for a pre-purchased tour that explains how single-malt Scotch whisky is made, but, oddly, not in the setting of a working distillery. It’s a trade-off because what you do get being in a purpose-built facility is the world’s largest collection of Scotch whisky, a breathtaking visual for the core audience, and a store with a whopping 450 types of the signature stuff. Nearly as impressive is that the prices are actually fair, but you know when to say when with your purchase of potent potables. Plus, there’s more walking to do and those bottles are heavy.

Window shopping along famous Princes Street leads to a short hike up Calton Hill for stunning sunset views. Being a Harry Potter fan, you check off Victoria Street, J.K. Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley, and other sights around town believed to be connected to the global sensation.

Meandering in the direction of the W, you pop into one of many intriguing restaurants for dinner. It’s a quick one as the jet lag you’ve been fighting since seeing the “Welcome to Scotland” sign at baggage claim is finally winning.

Of course, you order the “Scottish Breakfast” at the W’s Sushisamba restaurant, which by night serves up a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian flavors. Your cardiac-challenging platter comes with haggis, Lorne sausage, grilled back bacon, fried eggs and black pudding, which you know as blood pudding. You also are aware that haggis is banned in the States as the USDA frowns upon ingesting stomach fluids from slaughtered livestock. Despite sheep lungs being a key ingredient in haggis, you give it a nibble and realize that this Scottish staple isn’t half baaaad.

After check-out, you walk with your luggage to busy Edinburgh Waverley Train Station. A comfortable, hour-long ride on the Borders Railway terminates at Tweedbank, and you take the public bus to Abbotsford ( scottsabbotsford.com ), former home of 19th century novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. The estate is so extraordinary, you add “Ivanhoe” and “Rob Roy” to your reading list.

Relying on mostly taxis and hired drivers for the rest of the trip — the countless roundabouts, alone, make driving on the left side not worth the risk — you transfer to Schloss Roxburghe ( schlosshotel-roxburghe.com ) for two fairy-tale-like nights at this luxury countryside escape in the heart of scenic Scottish Borders. A tasty welcome with champagne and canapes is followed by a stroll around the historic property. On the sprawling resort surrounded by rolling hills and flowing rivers are 130 units (52 of them cottages), a championship golf course and other sporty activities, a Finnish-inspired spa, and nooks aplenty to enjoy libations made with the handmade gin created from botanicals sourced on the estate.

Wisely deciding to spend the day here, just as the Duke of Roxburghe often did in a past life of the picture-perfect property once owned by him, you book fishing, archery, croquet and clay shooting with the resort’s country sports manager. A few minutes later you pinch yourself in disbelief you’re staying where someone actually has the title of country sports manager.

A full day of activities and therapeutic R&R has you hungry for a night topped with “Scottish bistronomy” at the new, on-site Charlie’s. From the venison and pigeon to the scallops and ham hocks, the restaurant’s estate-to-plate approach pleases the senses.

A yummy buffet breakfast at Charlie’s coupled with an early checkout and on-time hired driver, found on VisitScotland’s website, make for a great start to what promises to be a long, but great day. Appropriately, the first stop is The Great Tapestry of Scotland ( greattapestryofscotland.com ) in the Borders town of Galashiels. On permanent display here since 2021 is the story of Scotland’s history, heritage and culture as told through 160 linen panels hand-stitched by over 1,000 nimble-fingered volunteers.

Leaving the 155 miles of driving to someone else today allows you to make a pitstop at the Moffat Distillery ( moffatdistillery.com ), where an American-born proprietor and her English husband are making a go making wood-fired whisky and gin. Tours and tastings — their blended-malt scotch is a winner — are conducted daily.

After traveling along what motor enthusiasts deem as the most drivable roads in the U.K., passing adorable villages and where ferries to Northern Ireland run back and forth day and night, you come up to the electronically gated entrance of your five-star home for the next two nights. One mile beyond — and one mile off Scotland’s western coast — is Glenapp Castle ( glenappcastle.com ) in the bonny Ayrshire countryside. Built in 1870, this prime example of Scots baronial, an architectural style of 19th-century Gothic Revival, has 17 luxury units (as low as $419 a night) and a 4,500-square-foot, four-bedroom penthouse that sleeps eight and starts at $4,000 a night. The 36 acres of perfectly manicured gardens, lush woodland and stately structures have hosted dignitaries from Churchill to Eisenhower, and since you’re sleeping like a VIP and got a classy bagpiper welcome, you might as well eat like one, too; dining at Glenapp is an experience fit for royalty.

Leaving the castle for a day of sightseeing had better be worth it, and it is at the very start thanks to the adorable namesake animals at Kitchen Coos & Ewes ( www.kitchencoosandewes.com ). Getting up-close and personal with the iconic Highland coos and their sheepish pals is a treat, as are the traditional homemade breakfast and lunch that come with the more in-depth tours of this working farm. Next on the schedule is a much different tour up the coast in Alloway; Robert Burns Birthplace Museum pays tribute to Scotland’s favorite son, whose poetry and songs are beloved worldwide. That includes one sung every New Year’s Eve, at least in days of auld lang syne. Despite the museum’s name, Burns’ actual birthplace is a tiny room in a cottage located at another site a 10-minute walk away.

Dinner is in nearby Troon, specifically at The Rabbit restaurant inside the new, 89-room Marine Troon ( marineandlawn.com/marinetroon ), a destination hotel that prides itself as “representing the nexus between land and sea, sport and soil, and man and nature.” Burns might have done better, but one thing that can’t be improved is the Old Course of the adjacent Royal Troon Golf Club. Perhaps one day you’ll return to play 18 here, but for now you behold what you can of links that will host the 152nd Open Championship in July, the 10th time the hallowed course will have this honor.

You’ve had fun storming the castle for two exquisite days, and now it’s time to return to reality — but not through Edinburgh this time. On the way to Glasgow Airport, a more hectic, but closer option from the west, the art lover in you prompts a visit to The Burrell Collection ( burrellcollection.com ). This Glascow gem houses more than 9,000 pieces spanning 6,000 years of history, and if it weren’t for a plane to catch, you could see yourself spending more than the two hours already given.

But the Burrell Collection isn’t the only place you didn’t get your fill over these six amazing days in the Scottish Lowlands. With luck and a replenished travel budget, you hope to return, and soon. Or as the old Scottish saying goes, “haste ye back!”

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The 5 best pigeon forge dinner shows of 2024 (+ local tips).

From friendly feuds to murder mysteries, explore the best supper shows in the Smokies.

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

Courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

From magical theme parks like Anakeesta in Gatlinburg to scenic drives and hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Smokies create vacation memories worth savoring – and quite literally when it comes to Pigeon Forge dinner shows.

Catching a dinner show in the area means good laughs, powerful storytelling, entertaining competitions and fun for the whole family, all while enjoying a tasty Southern supper. Read on to discover the best dinner shows in Pigeon Forge, alongside tips from a local expert.

• Best Overall
• Best for Adults
• Best for Families
• Best Comedy
• Best Murder Mystery

Best Overall: Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction

Courtesy of Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

The range of acts at Dolly Parton's Stampede makes it an all-around great show. From arena-style seating, you'll enjoy friendly competition with fellow attendees on the opposite side of the venue – egged on by your show's host. Select guests even get to enter the arena for family fun and games: Kids chase chickens across a finish line, adults swing toilet seats like horseshoes, and one lucky individual gets shuffled around in a barrel as part of a magic trick.

Aside from the lighthearted activities, the show brings spectacular pyrotechnics, horse riding stunts, aerial acrobatics and animal appearances, including buffaloes and longhorns. Dolly fans will also enjoy original songs from the artist played during the performance. The entertainment is paired with a four-course feast of creamy vegetable soup, a homemade biscuit, a whole rotisserie chicken, hickory-smoked pork loin, corn on the cob, a baked potato and an apple turnover; for a drink, choose from unlimited soda, tea or coffee.

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Local tip: Have a Dollywood season pass? If so, make sure to take advantage of the deals and discounts it provides at other Pigeon Forge attractions, including Dolly Parton's Stampede. You can get a few dollars off adult tickets when you show your season pass.

Best for Adults: Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show

Price: From $49.99 for adults Duration: 90 minutes Location: 2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

In summer 2023, the popular Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud joined the ranks of Pigeon Forge's dinner shows by adding a camp-style meal to the experience: a barbecue sandwich, coleslaw, baked beans, a cookie and a drink. As Pigeon Forge's only outdoor dinner show, Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud takes place rain or shine in climate-controlled grandstands. Audience members pick which family in the feud to root for (Team Dawson or Team McGraw), and then watch the show's competing lumberjacks undertake ax throwing, log sports and other physical challenges. In addition to splitting wood, the event promises "side-splitting" comedy.

You'll also have an option to combine your supper show ticket with access to the Lumberjack Feud Adventure Park. This adjacent theme park includes an 80-foot freefall jump, a high ropes course, logger-related sports and a zip line rollercoaster.

Local tip: If you're looking for another unique show in the area that adults will enjoy, consider checking out The Listening Room. Based on its sister location in Nashville, the venue hosts musicians who sing and tell the stories behind their music. While it's not a true dinner show – meaning your meal is not included with your ticket – audience members are encouraged to order from the restaurant's full menu and bar during the performance.

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Best for Families: Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Courtesy of Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 2713 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Sea lions and tropical birds may not be what you first associate with the Smokies, but at the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, you'll see these creatures and more. Set in arena-style seating with full-sized pirate ships, the show follows the family-friendly stories of infamous pirate Blackbeard and his quartermaster, Calico Jack, leading the Crimson and Sapphire crews through adventures. You can expect to see high dives into deep water, acrobatic mermaids and performances reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil.

Center seats provide an excellent view. Sit in the lower levels, however, if you and the kiddos don't mind getting a little wet as part of the experience. Along with the entertainment, guests are served a four-course meal. Some of the feast's highlights include swashbucklin' sugar-cured ham, cracklin' pan-fried chicken, a buccaneer biscuit and a specialty dessert.

Local tip: The Pirates Voyage theater sits along the Pigeon Forge Riverwalk Greenway – a paved 4-mile path that follows the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. The walkway runs from Patriot Park at its southern end (near popular restaurant The Old Mill) up to Old City Park. About halfway along the path, close to the theater, it passes The Island , a go-to spot for rides, shopping, lodging and dining. If you'd like to get some steps in, explore other stops in town and avoid post-show traffic, you'll find free parking at both ends of the greenway and at The Island for an easy stroll to the theater.

Best Comedy: Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

Courtesy of Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 119 Music Road, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud promises feudin', feastin' and family fun, as it plays off the historical rivalry between two families. The show centers on a hillbilly theme, complete with a flying contraption deemed the "billycopter," as well as "divin' hillbillies and divin' dogs" in an onstage swimming hole. Your dinner servers remain in character as part of the show – offering up fresh roadkill opossum as an entree, for example – and may even surprise you at some point by taking a dive into the pool. In addition, you can expect lots of singing and dancing and plenty of jokes. This dinner show is all about its playful environment.

Rectangular tables with checkered tablecloths form rows of amphitheater seating where you can enjoy your meal and laughs with your party. This production differs from other dinner shows in the area where you sit in single-file rows to dine. The dinner show is also unique in that it offers an all-you-can-eat Southern-style meal, with favorites such as feudin' fried chicken, pulled-to-pieces pork barbecue, smashed mashed taters and coleslaw.

Local tip: If you're looking for laughs but don't need the full dinner service, check out Pigeon Forge's Comedy Barn Theater for clean humor that's suitable for the whole family. Additionally, if you're visiting Pigeon Forge during the holidays, note that the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud becomes the Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud for a seasonal spin on the same antics.

Best Murder Mystery: Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show

Price: From $53.84 for adults Duration: 2 to 3 hours Location: 2682 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

This interactive whodunit theater offers four different shows: Moonshine Murders, Who Shot the Sheriff, Marriage Can Be Murder and Killer Prom. Attendees can arrive a half-hour before the show's start time to fill out a clue packet while enjoying beverages and the meal's first soup course. After the show's first act, entrees are served, and then the second act begins. Guests then receive dessert before the third and final act reveals the story's murderer. The show takes place throughout the intimate dining room, making every seat a perfect choice.

The theater's menu offers special dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meal options. Otherwise, every meal comes with a choice of three soups, country fried chicken, white pepper gravy, mashed potatoes, country-style green beans, a dinner roll and a choice of three cheesecake flavors. Soda, coffee and iced tea are included with the meal; beer and wine coolers are available for an additional cost.

Local tip: The Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show is located on Teaster Lane across from Pigeon Forge's Mountain Mile shopping, dining and entertainment development. Stop by before or after your show for a moonshine tasting at Junction 35 Spirits or a honey tasting at Savannah Bee Company.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Korrin Bishop , a contributor for the Travel section at U.S. News & World Report, called the Pigeon Forge area home for multiple years and set about exploring its many dining and entertainment attractions using a massive spreadsheet she created of adventure to-dos in the region. She continues to regularly visit the Smokies as a vacation destination. To curate this list, she used her own experience attending the shows and consulted with fellow locals and travelers about their takeaways, including some former dinner show performers. She also leveraged her research expertise and general knowledge of East Tennessee travel.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Restaurants in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
• The Top Things to Do in Tennessee
• The Top Lakes to Visit in Tennessee

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New California bill would ban line skipping service Clear from airports in name of equity

Bill would ban clear from california airports.

A newly-introduced bill would ban the security clearance company Clear from California airports. The bill aims to prevent people from being able to cut airport security lines.

New legislation being proposed in California would ban the expedited security screening company Clear from operating in the state’s airports, as proponents say the service raises equity issues given it effectively lets wealthier people skip ahead of passengers waiting in line to be screened by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents. 

The bill, SB-1372, the first of its kind in the U.S., would require third-party vendors like Clear to get their own dedicated security lane or lose the ability to operate in California airports.

Clear charges members $189 per year to verify passengers' identities at airports, allowing them to bypass TSA checkpoints. The service is in use at more than 55 airports across the U.S., as well as at dozens of sports stadiums and other venues, according to its website. Members verify their identity at Clear kiosks. It is separate to the TSA Pre-Check, although many Clear members use both services.  

State Sen. Josh Newman, a Democrat, is sponsoring the legislation, and it has bipartisan support from Republican Sen. Janet Nguyen.

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"It's a basic equity issue when you see people subscribed to a concierge service being escorted in front of people who have waited a long time to get to the front of TSA line," Newman told CBS MoneyWatch. 

"Everyone is beaten down by the travel experience , and if Clear escorts a customer in front of you and tells TSA, 'Sorry, I have someone better,' it's really frustrating." 

"I do understand the frustration stated in Senator Newman’s bill," Republican Sen. Janet Nguyen, who sits on the transportation committee, told Politico. "It becomes a haves vs. have-nots where those who can afford it jump in front of the rest of us. They even cut in front of TSA Pre-boarding pass travelers who have been screened by the TSA."

Nguyen has expressed similar concerns but is not supporting the bill and did not vote for it, a spokesperson tells Fox Business.

Six major airlines — Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, JetBlue and Hawaiian — are opposing the bill and wrote a letter to Senate Transportation Committee Chair Dave Cortese this month arguing its passage would result in revenue losses.

They wrote that the services were used more than 5 million times in California in 2023.

The airlines argued that the bill "not only threatens to increase fees on air carriers but also severely restricts airports’ ability to effectively manage lines at the security checkpoint, resulting in a negative travel experience for our California customers."

A Clear spokesperson echoed the airline's concerns.

"We will continue to work constructively with legislators as well as the federal government and our airport partners to ensure operations at California airports are as seamless and efficient as possible," Ricardo Quinto said in a statement to Politico.

Supporters of the bill include the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA and the union representing Transportation Security Officers in Oakland, Sacramento and San Jose.

"Clear is nothing more than the luxury resale of upcharge of space in the airport security queue, where those who pay can skip the line at the direct expense of every other traveler," James Murdock, president of AFGE Local 1230, the TSA officer union's local chapter, wrote in a separate letter to Cortese, according to CBS.

 "While Clear may save time for its paying customers, non-customers suffer from Clear's aggressive sales tactics and longer security queues while they enter an essential security screening process." 

The bill is set to come before the California State Senate's transportation committee on Tuesday.

Get the latest updates on this story on FOXBusiness.com.