10 Epic California Experiences You Can’t Leave the State Without Seeing

Did you know that in 2023, a whopping 263 million people visited California?

Even if you’re visiting from abroad, California might seem oddly familiar. Its amazing scenery has graced the big screens of movies internationally, encouraging travelers around the world to visit.

This Golden State is like no other, spanning nearly 900 miles from the Mexican border in the south all the way up the Pacific Coast to Oregon. California offers everything from sunny beaches and bustling cities to snow-capped mountains and vast deserts.

With so much to see, planning a visit, either solo or with the whole family, might feel overwhelming. You’ll want to start by finding the best spots to explore on the West Coast and the many things you can do at these locations!

What Makes California Different From Other States?

Different Climates

California is the most populated state in the U.S., with nearly 40 million people calling it home — more than the entire country of Canada! The weather ranges from sunny and warm in San Diego to cold and windy in San Francisco, making it a popular travel destination to enjoy the variety of climates this state offers.

Adventure

If you’re a thrill-seeker, California leads the nation with more theme parks than any other state. There’s more than just roller coasters here, though. From breathtaking national parks and scenic hiking trails to charming coastal towns and big cities, California is a dream for the adventurous at heart.

Top-Notch Cuisine

Food lovers, rejoice! It doesn’t matter if you’re dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant or chowing down on tacos on a food tour in San Diego; California’s culinary scene will live up to the high expectations. Don’t miss out on the world-famous wine in Northern California, where you can sip on some of the best pinot noirs from hillside vineyards.

Hollywood

Let’s not forget Hollywood’s glitz and glam! Film and television became big in Los Angeles, which is still the entertainment industry’s capital. California’s Hollywood scene is a major draw for visitors from around the globe.

What Are The Best Things To Do In California?

If you ask why tourists love to visit California, most people will tell you it’s because there is so much to do there. Since the state is so big (it takes around six hours to drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco), knowing where to prioritize your time can be tough.

Check out the top attractions in the state and figure out what you’re most interested in so you can make the most of your next trip to California.

1. Museum Tours and Scenery in Balboa Park, San Diego

San Diego is famous for its stunning beaches, perfect weather, and bounty of attractions. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most visited cities in the world.

If you’re going there, check out Balboa Park — the city’s cultural heart. Balboa Park is home to 16 museums, stunning Spanish Colonial Revival buildings, beautiful gardens, and plenty of green space. You can enjoy a lot of the 1,200-acre park for free! Most locals like to take walks around the beautiful Spanish buildings and gardens without spending a dime.

Some of the park’s museums are also free. The Timken Museum of Art lets you see masterpieces by Rembrandt and others at no cost. The Mingei Museum’s Commons Area is free and displays a variety of folk art pieces.

If you’ve got the time, you can also check out the San Diego Zoo (located on Balboa Park grounds), Botanical Building, and Lily Pond for some outdoor activities.

2. Three Mile Runyon Canyon Hike in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit if you’re exploring the West Coast or are a local just looking for a fresh adventure! Don’t miss out on the beaches and the Hollywood sign.

Runyon Canyon is a fantastic hike just 20 minutes from downtown. You can embark on a quick 1.6-mile hike to a great viewpoint or tackle a longer 3.5-mile loop around the park. The views are amazing, and you might even spot a celebrity or two! Many actors and reality stars have been known to frequent these trails.

You can hit the trails in your workout clothes and sneakers, and you’re welcome to bring your dog along. Just be aware it can get crowded, so don’t expect a secluded escape. There’s no parking lot, so park as close to the entrance as you can.

While you’re in the area, Universal Studios Hollywood is only about 10 minutes away. If you’re heading there in the afternoon, plan to arrive early and grab your tickets ahead of time.

3. Magical Rides and Adventures at Disneyland in Anaheim

Located in Anaheim, about an hour day trip south of Los Angeles, Disneyland Resort is a must-visit for fun for all ages. With over 60 rides and attractions, magical parades, and yummy treats, it’s no wonder it’s called “The Happiest Place on Earth.”

See Walt Disney’s original theme park and start your day on Main Street, USA. Enjoy classic rides like Dumbo and “It’s a Small World” in Fantasyland, or explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to fly the Millennium Falcon or build a droid. Don’t miss other unique areas like Adventureland, Critter Country, and Mickey’s Toontown.

Insider tip: For a smoother visit, plan ahead. Book your tickets in advance and download the Disneyland App to check menus and maps easily.

4. Admire the Architecture at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco

San Francisco, tucked along Northern California’s coast, is a city I never get tired of. Travelers often head straight from the airport to grab tacos in the Mission District or check out the Ferry Building, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and all the other incredible things to see in San Francisco.

One of my favorite spots is the Palace of Fine Arts. Built in 1915, this place is a stunning throwback to San Francisco’s past and a perfect backdrop for your Instagram pics. With its grand Beaux-Arts style, Greek columns, and impressive rotunda, it’s a standout feature on the city’s skyline. Don’t rush — take in the beautiful details and the serene lagoon around it.

Located on Baker Street in the Marina, it’s just a few steps away from Crissy Field’s beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay. It’s free to walk around the grand columns and take in the view.

5. Ride in the World’s Largest Rotating Tram Car at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs, California, is a cool and relaxed getaway for anyone craving a fancy desert escape to sip a cocktail by the pool. Located about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, it offers great dining, nightlife, and kitschy mid-century modern architecture.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is an attraction like no other in the area, offering a unique mountain excursion in the desert. Within 10 minutes, you’ll travel two and a half miles up Chino Canyon’s cliffs on the rotating tram car. Here, you’ll be privy to amazing 360-degree views of the desert.

You’ll be greeted with breathtaking panoramic views when you reach the top of Mount San Jacinto at 8,516 feet in elevation. The Mountain Station is your gateway to Mount San Jacinto State Park, with over 50 miles of hiking trails. If you want an easy walk or a challenging hike, you have options here with incredible scenery. Just make sure to wear the right gear and bring a jacket — the temperature on the mountain is about 30 degrees colder than in Palm Springs!

To avoid long lines, buy your tram tickets online in advance. You can still get tickets on the day at Valley Station, but they’re subject to availability.

6. Dive into Marine Wonders at Monterey Bay Aquarium

California’s central coast is full of amazing spots, but the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a great place to start.

Known as “one of America’s most captivating aquariums,” it’s packed with interactive exhibits and marine life. With over 2 million visitors yearly, highlights include sea otters and the kelp forest, where you can see scuba divers feeding sharks.

The free trolley runs every 10 to 15 minutes from downtown Monterey, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Cannery Row to the Aquarium. Kids aged 8 to 13 can enjoy the Underwater Explorers program, diving in the Great Tide Pool without needing any gear. Buy tickets in advance for a smooth visit!

7. Guided Tours at Hearst Castle, San Simeon

San Simeon’s beaches, shaped by the Pacific Ocean, are a top spot in central California, and Hearst Castle is a must-see. It’s easy to reach, no matter which direction you’re coming from.

Once the lavish home of art collector and newsletter mogul William Randolph Hearst, the castle is now a museum and California State Park. Designed by Julia Morgan, California’s first licensed female architect (yep, it’s true!), Hearst Castle hosted celebrities and famous figures like Charlie Chaplin, Clark Gable, Winston Churchill, and Charles Lindbergh.

Known as the “Enchanted Hill,” the castle showcases Hearst’s vast art collection and offers incredible views of the California coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

Nearby, you can explore the largest protected marine sanctuary in the U.S. or check out over 17,000 elephant seals at local coves. There’s plenty to see and do just minutes from Hearst Castle!

8. Enjoy Art and Nature in Laguna Beach

Although Laguna Beach has a tucked-away vibe, its reputation as a hub for visual art is well known. With its nationally recognized festival of the arts, the Pageant of the Masters, and a gallery on every corner, it’s an art-lovers paradise.

Laguna Beach also lives up to the hype with its stunning seven miles of beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic canyons. It’s exactly what you picture when you think of the perfect California getaway. Beyond the sand, you’ll find 22,000 acres of protected wilderness with amazing trails and views.

Crystal Cove State Park is a must-see. It features 3.2 miles of beach and thousands of acres of wild land for camping, hiking, and horseback riding. Dive into the underwater park, hit the surf, or explore the tide pools and sandy coves.

9. Napa Valley Wine Tours

Napa Valley is the place to go if you love wine or want to see how it’s made. With over 400 wineries, this spot offers top-notch wine, gorgeous scenery, and great weather all year. Plus, you can enjoy Michelin-star dining and luxurious stays.

Choose from a variety of tours, including a wine train, to taste your way through Napa Valley and make the most of this famous wine region! Stroll through the vineyards and explore boutique wineries.

They offer romantic and exciting tours for couples, groups, or anyone wanting to meet fellow wine lovers.

10. See The World’s Tallest Trees in Sequoia National Park

If you love trees, Sequoia National Park is a must-visit! Just 80 miles southeast of Fresno and about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, this park is perfect for a weekend escape.

Established in 1890, it’s home to some of the tallest trees in the world, including the infamous General Sherman Tree. Standing 275 feet tall, it’s the largest tree by volume. In addition to the giant trees, you can explore caves, hike, or even snowshoe.

Open year-round, Sequoia is also close to Kings Canyon, Yosemite, and Death Valley National Parks, making it easy to visit several parks in one trip!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About California

What is the Number One Attraction in California?

Although California has tons of famous places to see, Disneyland is considered one of the top-visited attractions in the state. In 2022, over 16 million people made the trek to the happiest place on earth to shake Mickey Mouse’s hand and ride the Matterhorn.

The San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge follows closely behind, with almost 15 million visitors in 2023.

Is a California Road Trip Worth It?

Yes! A road trip through California is like no other adventure. The state is packed with amazing landscapes, bustling cities, and fun activities. Drive along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, explore vibrant cultures, try out famous restaurants, and visit stunning national parks. It’s the ultimate road trip, offering a mix of everything that makes California special.

Are There Ghost Towns In California?

Think California is just flashy cities and stunning views? Think again! The state is home to over 300 ghost towns.

These eerie places popped up during the Gold Rush, mining booms, railroad expansions, and shifts in agriculture. Once those industries died out, these villages became abandoned seemingly overnight. Today, wandering through these deserted towns lets you step back in time, exploring empty buildings and quiet streets.

This article originally appeared on Travel Binger. 

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.