4.5Universal Studios Hollywood(37.0k reviews)from $109.00 - Buy the fast pass Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood experience! Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place: thrilling theme park rides and shows, a real working movie studio, and Los Angeles’ best shops, restaurants and cinemas at CityWalk. Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique experience that’s fun for the whole family. Explore Universal Studios backlot on the legendary Studio Tour. Then face the action head on in heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions that put you inside some of the world’s biggest movies. End your day with the energy and excitement of Universal CityWalk. All this and much more. Only at Universal Studios Hollywood, The Entertainment Capital of L.A.See more..
4.5Disneyland Park(27.8k reviews)from $285.00 - Great family experience Friday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM Amusement & Theme Parks
Disneyland is one of the funnest places I’ve taken my family to. The amount of thought that goes into every last detail there is amazing. Staff are all very friendly, happy and helpful. It definitely gets busy, so arriving early is a good idea. Security lineups moved very quickly, which is nice having bags ready for inspection helps speed up the process too. Food inside the park can be a bit pricey so sometimes packing a lunch is a good option. Rides are so much fun. Very small children can be taken on over 50% of the rides. Genie pass is most definitely worth it. My only complaint is that the volume seems to have been turned up 100% since we were last there 7 years ago. So if you have a child with sensory issue, be sure to bring along noise cancelling ear protection, I sure wish I had.See more..
4.5Disney California Adventure Park(15.7k reviews)from $285.00 - Fun in spite of the rain Friday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Disney Parks & Activities
Buckle up for an exhilarating ride around Pixar Pier on the Incredicoaster, zoom through the desert landscape of Cars Land on Radiator Springs Racers, and explore a campus created for the next generation of Super Heroes at Avengers Campus.See more..
4.5La Jolla Cove(13.7k reviews) - The Most Exciting Beach Spent More than 3 hours Beaches • Parks
At this beach surronded by sandstone cliffs on the San Diego coast, the water is calm enough for travelers to enjoy diving and snorkeling. Walk along the rocky shore to spot large colonies of sea lions lounging in their natural habitat and looking after their pups, and have a picnic while soaking up the views of the ocean from the cliffs at sunset. If you visit at low tide, you’ll get to swim in the crystal clear tidal pools as well. You can also visit Sunny Jim's Sea Cave which is accessible via a tunnel. Visit early in the morning to find a parking space more easily. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Balboa Park(13.0k reviews) - A gorgeous park that is a must-visit Friday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Parks • Gardens • Playgrounds
This 1,200-acre nature park comprises 17 museums, gardens, musical theaters, a sports complex, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The park’s Spanish-Moorish architecture and 19 distinct gardens (some require admission fees) attract both tourists and locals. Don’t miss the San Diego Air and Space Museum, the Spanish Village Art Center for unique handicrafts, and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, where free concerts are hosted in the evenings. Travelers recommend putting aside the whole day to explore the park. To make the most of your time, hop on the Balboa Park trams (they’re free!) to get around. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.0SeaWorld(10.2k reviews) - Pleasantly Surprised... Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Aquariums
Only at SeaWorld can you get close to dolphins, penguins, sharks and more. See awe-inspiring shows with magnificent killer whales, playful dolphins, humorous sea lions plus an amazing pet show featuring adopted animals. Dive under the sea at Explorer's Reef and touch a crab, shark, or playful cleaner fish. Experience exhilarating rides, roller coasters and water rides. See dozens of amazing attractions. Enjoy fresh California cuisine. Experience this beautiful park located on scenic Mission Bay. SeaWorld is a top-rated, all-age attraction and a must-see for any visit to San Diego. Have unforgettable fun that sparks a passion for wild animals and wild places.See more..
4.5Golden Gate Park(9.598 reviews) - A Must See Spent 1-2 hours Parks
The third most visited park in the United States, this green urban space has plenty of gardens, wildlife, museums, and art to enjoy.See more..
4.0LEGOLAND California(8.838 reviews) - Good Friday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
LEGOLAND® California Resort has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including the new LEGO® Star Wars™: The Force Awakens Miniland Model Display opening March with a 16-foot long Finalizer model made completely out of LEGO bricks plus six more scenes! Conquer dragons, battle pirates and discover ancient treasures at the Resort, also home to LEGOLAND Water Park, SEA LIFE® Aquarium; and NEW for Summer enjoy Surfers’ Cove – a water park expansion featuring racer-water slides. There’s so much to do, you’ll want to spend the night at LEGOLAND Hotel featuring new LEGO NINJAGO themed rooms.See more..
4.5Downtown Disney District(8.819 reviews)from $285.00 - Another fun part of the Disney experience in Anaheim Friday: 7:00 AM - 1:00 AM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Disney Parks & Activities
Make way for more magic with unique eateries, upscale shops and exciting entertainment for Guests of all ages at Disneyland Resort's Downtown Disney District! Check out Disney fan favorite shops like World of Disney, Disneyland Resort Backlot Premiere Shop, & Disney Home; and unique restaurants like Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes & Salt & Straw. For the most up to date health and safety measures and top things to know, go to: https: //disneyland.disney.go.com / experience-updates / downtown-disney / Check out Disney fan favorite shops like World of Disney, Disneyland Resort Backlot Premiere Shop, & Disney Home; and unique restaurants like Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes & Salt & Straw. For the most up to date health and safety measures and top things to know, go to: https://disneyland.disney.go.com/experience-updates/downtown-disney/See more..
4.5Muir Woods National Monument(6.974 reviews) - Memorable trip to San Francisco all because Ms. Pep of Alegro Private Tours Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests
Muir Woods has a rich and varied history, from its use by the Coast Miwok people, to its early days of tourism and the Mount Tamalpais Mill Valley Scenic Railway, to an era of conservation, to modern preservation. In each era, the forest has been affected by the actions of humans, for better or for worse. Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, this coastal redwood preserve features majestic redwoods and scenic hiking trails that draw more than 1.5 million visitors each year.See more..
The Santa Monica State Beach is a pretty long stretch of beach, and there are paid parking lots down it - with bathrooms and restaurants and playgrounds as well. When visiting LA with my husband and brother this past weekend, I knew I couldn't leave California without walking along the beach and taking in some ocean views. So we picked a parking lot ($7 for the day on a Tuesday; it was pretty empty) and walked along the beach for a bit. It was a grayish day, but it was still lovely to walk along the beach and watch and smell the ocean before heading back to wintery, rainy, gray Nashville. If your visit includes weekdays, I suggest visiting on the beach on a weekday - it was pretty empty! Very relaxing place to visit!See more..
4.5Old Town San Diego State Historic Park(5.673 reviews) - Loved It! Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours State Parks • Historic Walking Areas
Historic site in downtown San Diego that recreates life in the Mexican and early American periods of 1821 to 1872.See more..
4.0Six Flags Magic Mountain(5.453 reviews) - Long lines end of year, only 4 rides full day. Friday: 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
With 260 acres and over 100 different attractions, this theme park has something for everyone.See more..
4.5Cabrillo National Monument(4.873 reviews) - Worth The Drive Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • National Parks • Monuments & Statues
Stately monument honoring Cabrillo, discoverer of San Diego Bay, is located in Point Loma that overlooks the city and the Bay.See more..
5.0Point Lobos(4.847 reviews) - Worth it to spend a few hours and get great photos! Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM State Parks
Home to a rich marine habitat, this nature reserve is popular for both whale-watching (in winter) and spotting sea lions (all year round). With amazing natural landscapes, it's great for hiking along the ocean or simply strolling around and taking in the magnificent rocky coastline lined with rare Monterey cypress trees. If you’re into water activities, go kayaking or even scuba diving among 70-foot-high kelp forests and diverse marine life. Parking spaces are limited, so get there in the early morning to grab a spot. Otherwise, sign up for a guided tour that will take you straight into the reserve. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.0Knott's Berry Farm(4.500 reviews) - Only 10 mins from Disneyland! Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Once a working berry farm, this popular theme park is now home to GhostRider, the world's best wooden roller coaster; Supreme Scream, a ride where participants are hoisted up 30-stories and dropped down in three seconds; the Xcelerator, rated the world's best launch coaster and Camp Snoopy, home to the beloved Peanuts gang.See more..
4.5Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve(3.788 reviews) - Best hike ever! Friday: 7:15 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
Although this park is located within San Diego's city limits, it remains one of the wildest landscapes along the Southern California coast, with miles of unspoiled beaches, chaparral, elegant Torrey Pine trees and a lagoon vital to many species of migrating birds.See more..
Travelers flock to this major seaside amusement park for its mix of thrilling, family, and kid-friendly rides. Don’t miss out on the Sky Glider, which boasts fantastic aerial views, or the exhilarating Fireball, which swings riders to dizzying heights. You can also battle it out at the arcade, have a round of mini golf, play a game of laser tag, brave the Fright Walk, or simply watch sea lions frolic in the water. Snag a season pass, an unlimited rides wristband (choose weekdays for the biggest savings), or the pay-per-play MyBoardwalk card. Visit early to get a parking spot. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Griffith Park(3.196 reviews) - Amazing views Friday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Parks
Covering more than 4,107 acres of natural terrain, this is the largest municipal park and urban wilderness area in the United States, which offers numerous family attractions and activities.See more..
5.0Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parks(2.732 reviews) - Three generations of fun! Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
We were 3 generations in our family, ages 7, 38 and 74. We all went on all the courses. It was totally safe. It was still very thrilling. It was so much fun and given that you can be on the courses for 2.5 hours it was a fantastic bargain. They limit the number of people in a way that you are never waiting in lines. The employees are very professional and do a good job of explaining what to expect, how to deal with any issues that might come up and how to have the most fun. We really loved this experience and we recommend it to anyone visiting Tahoe. It should be at the top of your list of things to do.See more..
4.5La Jolla Shores Park(2.717 reviews) - Beautiful beach at low tide! Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Beaches • Parks
Mile-long beach features gentle waves during the summer months, making this spot a prime spot for novice scuba divers. See more..
As the name suggests, this park’s rugged coastline features magnificent ocean views at sunset. Don’t miss the chance to explore the tide pools—be careful as some parts of the climb down can be uneven and steep. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is also a great spot to see gray whales passing by on their migration. There are drinking fountains throughout the park, but there aren’t any food establishments nearby—pack lunch as it’s a perfect spot for picnics. Expect crowds approaching sunset, and parking can be tricky late afternoon. You can take a bus there from Old Town instead of driving. – TripadvisorSee more..
We loved our visit to the mariposa grove. Outside of Muir Woods in CA, this was our first visit to a large grove and it was really breathtaking. Most folks on tours or visiting only go on the shorter trail. Take the long trail and see the trees around the upper grove. We would have hiked more, but missed a few shortcuts we could have taken on perimeter trails They could use some better maps to show how the short cuts will save you time, especially for folks that dont want longer hikes. Fantastic views for us with fantastic weather!See more..
5.0Marin Headlands(1.891 reviews) - Best Vantage point to View the Golden Gate Bridge State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Located at the Point Bonita Lighthouse, these headlands offer a suspension bridge and hiking trail.See more..
I spent an evening exploring the west side of the Presidio park. It was a very beautiful hike, and about 50% of the people I encountered were cycling. I recommend cycling, if you have little time and want to see as much as possible. The Presidio park is quite large and it's dotted with monuments, and location with great views. See more..
4.0Six Flags Discovery Kingdom(1.837 reviews) - very nice first experience! Friday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Welcome to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Northern California’s largest, most exciting theme park! If your family is looking for things to do in the San Francisco Bay area, you’ve come to the right place. With over 45 rides and attractions, including soaring rollercoasters, animal attractions and enchanting children’s rides for families with young children, live entertainment, classic dining options, exciting & educational animal encounters, and special events like Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park, there’s always something new and exciting happening in the park!See more..
We visited today and we absolutely loved it. Parking can be tough, but we got lucky. Parking meters charge 2.50 per hour and the maximum stay time is 4 hours. I love the clean sandy beaches with spectacular views. This park is a slice of heaven. The picnic areas with tables are all closed off due to Covid 19, but there are some benches to sit on. None in the shade though! If you bring your own shade and chairs, you can sit in grass or on the beach. Make sure to take sunscreen with you. I will definitely return although it is a long way from home.See more..
First the bad news. Arrived at about 3:00 pm. Parking for one hour was $5 or $10 until sunset. I opted for the $10 pass. There are four lots strung out over the 3.5 mile length of the park. A path runs its course along the top but there are a few places where one can go down to go down to the beach. I didn’t find beach access from lot 2 but there is two access parts from the path that can be accessed from parking lot 1. Depending on the tide, beach walking may require shedding the shoes. There are several overlook point where one can take beautiful pictures. I wasn’t able to do the entire length of the walking path due to time constraints. See more..
4.5Runyon Canyon Park(1.233 reviews) - Great hike and great views! Canyons • Parks
Located off Mulholland Drive in the Hollywood Hills, this park is especially loved by dog-lovers since they can hike with their dogs without a leash.See more..
The park works hard to make the trees accessible to folks with a wide variety of abilities. Several handicapped trails, pullovers for views and trees, paved trails with plenty of benches. The trees themselves are like sculptural pieces...weathered by time and fire, twisted, scarred and beautiful. They moved me in a way I was not anticipating. The obvious fire damage somehow makes the visit more soulful. Visiting after Labor day, midweek, no trouble finding parking. Bathrooms available at popular spots, trails clean well maintained. Plenty of information online or in handouts to plan your visit. Trails get busier/more crowded in late morning and early afternoonSee more..
5.0Redwood National Park(1.158 reviews) - Amazing 2 day trip State Parks • National Parks • Hiking Trails
This massive natural reservation, located on the scenic coastline of Northern California, consists of nearly 140,000 acres of stunning redwood rainforest. It's a must-visit spot for nature lovers who enjoy camping, fishing, and hiking. There are multiple trails to explore the park's many wonders, from its majestic sequoias and towering Douglas firs to the stunning Lady Bird Johnson Grove. You might even spot wildlife like the majestic Roosevelt elk and the colorful banana slug. The best time to visit is in summer—make sure to pack layers as it can get chilly. Admission to the park is free, but the three state parks within the park charge a day-use fee. – TripadvisorSee more..
5.0Asilomar State Beach(1.060 reviews) - Absolutely beautiful beach State Parks • Beaches
The name of this State Beach means "a refuge by the sea," which describes the breathtaking views of forest, surf and sand on more than 105 secluded acres of scenic forest and sand dunes.See more..
4.0Pacific Park(1.043 reviews) - Try to avoid the crowds, so much fun Friday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Located on the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park® is the family place to play! Featuring 12 thrilling rides, including the West Coaster and Pacific Wheel, the world's first solar-powered Ferris wheel. Millions of visitors each year enjoy all the rides, games and fun you’d expect from one of Southern California’s leading entertainment destinations. Pacific Park® has it all… a dozen rides, midway games, ocean-front specialty food outlets, and seaside shopping.See more..
4.5Anza-Borrego Desert State Park(988 reviews) - Pleasant Hike at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Spent More than 3 hours State Parks • Deserts • Scenic Drives
The largest state park in California is home to amazing flowers and plants which bloom in the early spring.See more..
4.5Kings Canyon(956 reviews) - Circular walk is spectacular but only for the fit and don’t attempt after 7am on hot days National Parks • Canyons
Kings Canyon National Park is named for this large canyon, perfect for hiking.See more..
4.5Sonoma Plaza(926 reviews) - Wonderful Historic Town Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks
Bordered by several gourmet shops, this pretty town square is a perfect place for a picnic.See more..
5.0La Jolla Zip Zoom Zipline(829 reviews) - Zip Zoom Fabulous Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
If you are up to for some serious adrenaline rush take the backroads and drive to a day of Fun at LJ ZZZ! The ZZ Crew is super friendly, entertaining and above all Safety Oriented, just the way I like it. You are experiencing 3x 45 seconds of almost free fall at speeds up to 50mph, and trust me you want to know that safety gear is mounted and adjusted properly as your life is in the hands of these hard working young people. The landing at the bottom tells you the full story as you are bounced up 3 feet in the air after coming in hot full speed. Listen and follow the instructions and have thrill of a lifetime! Bo - Seattle, party of 4.See more..
MacKerricher is a great place to observe whales, and it also provides a habitat for several rare plant species.See more..
5.0Joshua Tree National Park(742 reviews) - Stunning mountains and scenery Spent More than 3 hours National Parks
It’s easy to spend all day visiting the park as it’s huge and there are loads of trials to walk. We only chose a couple of short trials which we enjoyed. I would recommend baker trail. Plus the vastness of Turkey plains towards the south entrance is breathtaking. I would recommend the west entrance visitor centre, grab a map, ask a guide ( very helpful) to recommend a route and buy your ticket. Bring your own drink/ food as there are not restaurants in the park. There are toilets but not the flushing kind! Last flushing toilet is at the visitors centre on West entrance and south entrance ( didn’t use 29 Palms entrance but reckon there is there too)See more..
5.0Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park(734 reviews) - Worth the Drive to Hike Through This Amazing Park Spent 1-2 hours State Parks
Minutes away from the city, this park has old redwoods.See more..
4.5Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park(733 reviews) - Amazing "Free Park". Hurry and don't linger there. State Parks
Review: I hated every state parks because they cost money, but you can walk in trails with limited time for free. Limited parking time is enough for a small hiking trip with a picnic. The tall redwoods are amazing. A big quiet river flow slowly. There's tables for picnic. Blue birds will fly very close towards you. The park is a nice protected environment in the harsh Big Sur lands, I would pick this out of all the Big Sur state parks. Useful Plans For You If You Want To Go There: My family started the second day of SF-LA trip. We went from Monterey to Pismo Beach. I suggest you to buy lunch in Monterey and serve in the picnic tables. Hike the river trail. Pass the water. Have your lunch at the lunch tables. Hurry, or you can't reach San Luis Obispo by sunset. There's not a single campground or hotel for you after this park.See more..
We have 4 kids ages 1-10, all "Dennis" proteges, and found the park lives up to its name. It is a very fun playground. The parking is inadequate, so park across the street. The other word to the wise is to stick close to your kids: this playground is big, crowded, and has many cool things to play on that are essentially unsafe if unsupervised. The highlight for my kids was the suspension bridge.See more..
5.0Mount Hermon Adventures(703 reviews) - Best ziplining experience with the best guides in the world Friday: 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
Had what I would say was the best ziplining experience in my whole life – would rate this place 10 out of 5 stars if I could! Our guides, Bailey and Jordan, were super professional, knowledgeable, and hilarious – they gave us a detailed rundown of the redwood trees in the region and sprinkled in some nature-related humor from time to time, which kept the whole experience super exhilarating and enjoyable. This place also performs maintenance on the gear and infrastructure of the ziplines very often so the whole setup was very safe, which was very reassuring. If you're ever in the region, 11/10 would recommend giving them a visit – you'll be amazed!See more..
OPEN 365 DAYS a YEAR -- THERE IS NO FEE -- Built between 1908 and 1909, and extensively restored, it is one of the most complete Lightstations in the U.S. and hosts visitors, vacation rentals, receptions and weddings, plus education programs for classes of local students. There is a parking area inside the gate off Point Cabrillo Drive, adjacent to the restored Kearn farmhouse with its public restroom. Enjoy the half mile downhill walk to the Light Station buildings. There is parking for vehicles with Disabled placards at the bottom of the hill. There are two paths to the Station. The dirt path begins at the north end of the parking lot and takes you through the introduced grassland and coastal prairie. The paved access road to the south is an easier walk. The Light Station includes the Lighthouse, which is an active duty Aid to Navigation, containing the original Chance Brothers classic 3rd order Fresnel lens. -- Three restored Lightkeeper homes; the first is a period museum of a lightkeeper's house in the 1930s; the other two houses are comfortable vacation rental homes, -- The restored Blacksmith & Carpentry Shop houses the Marine Science Exhibit with its 240 gallon saltwater aquarium, -- Two lovely vacation rental cottages, and public restrooms, one by the lightkeepers houses and another in the Kearn farmhouse. THERE IS NO FEE to tour the Lighthouse museum/giftshop or the period museum lightkeeper's house, although your donations are welcome. The Lighthouse, 1st Assistant Lightkeeper's House and Marine Science Exhibit are open to the public from 11am to 4pm year-round, including holidays. The State Historic Park grounds are open from sunrise to sunset daily.See more..
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the nation's largest national park in an urban area, encompasses nearly 81,000 acres. Spanning Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties, Golden Gate National Recreation Area also includes areas such as Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods National Monument, Fort Point National Historic Site, Presidio of San Francisco, and the Marin Headlands.See more..
4.0California's Great America(648 reviews) - Family Halloween fun Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
#AmazingLooksLike the state’s only combination theme and water park offering more than 100 acres of world-class entertainment for guests of all ages!See more..
