Hidden Gems Places To Visit in California, United States

1. 5.0 MindTrap Escape Room (100 reviews)
   - The Wonderful Land of Oz
   Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
   
   
   MindTrap Escape Room is a real life adventure game located in Murrieta where participants enter a themed environment and have to use teamwork along with elements of the room to find keys and clues, solve puzzles and unlock secret codes. Can you Escape? See more..
   
2. 5.0 Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts (100 reviews)
   - 3 Cheers for Beatrice Wood!
   Friday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries
   
   
   Admission is $5. Guided tours are $10. Led by Kevin Wallace, Director of the Center, the guided tour includes the Permanent Collection, Current Exhibitions, and Beatrice Wood’s Studio. Wallace shares insight into Beatrice Wood’s involvement in the New York Dada Movement, the Theosophical Society, the creation of the Happy Valley Foundation, and Beatrice Wood’s unique approach to art and life. The Center is located ten minutes from downtown Ojai. Who was Beatrice Wood? Beatrice Wood was an important contemporary artist, craftsperson and writer. Her life ran the course of the 20th century and included many of the figures that shaped it. Ultimately, her genius was in the marriage of wide-ranging influences in her work. The spirit of Dadaism, impact of Modernism, embrace of Eastern philosophy, influence of folk art and even the ornament of ethnic jewelry were all combined in her ceramics. See more..
   
3. 5.0 Puzzle Effect - Bakersfield (99 reviews)
   - Amnesia
   Friday: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
   
   
   Now offering Virtual Escape Games! What if your favorite board game came to life? Imagine a completely immersive room filled with puzzles, clues, and riddles, and one hour on the clock. No phones, no distractions. Just unexpected twists, scenery that transports you, and that feeling of accomplishment when you solve a puzzle (or maybe the whole room!). Puzzle Effect is your new entertainment obsession. Escape rooms are perfect for new friends, old friends, family, date nights, birthday celebrations, and even team building. Book your adventure today! See more..
   
4. 5.0 Rock-N-Water Christian Camps (98 reviews)
   - Best Christian Camp Ever!
   Friday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing • Canyoning & Rappelling Tours • Climbing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing
   
   
   We took the youth from our church on a 4-day summer camp adventure and it was the best decision we have ever made! Our children were blessed the moment they set foot on the grounds. The staff were amazing and all of us made a connection with our counselor, Shelby. So much so, that they haven't stopped talking about her and are excited to go again next summer (we already booked our dates). All of the adventures were wonderful! Some stretched our kids and brought them out of their comfort zone, which was great to witness. The staff came along side of them and encouraged them when they were hesitant but were never pushy to make them do something they didn't want. We feel so blessed to have been able to go to this camp and highly recommend it to anyone that wants a great Christian Camp experience. See more..
   
5. 5.0 Anderson Valley (98 reviews)
   - Pretty country and has wineries
   Valleys
   
   
   A concentration of high-quality wineries north of San Francisco. See more..
   
6. 5.0 Little Lakes Valley Trail (98 reviews)
   - A glorious hike!
   Hiking Trails
   
   
   My wife and I have hiked this trail maybe 20 times over the years. It is off Hwy. 395, between Bishop and Mammoth Lakes. You drive in off the highway about 10 miles, pass a small cafe and proceed to the roadend. Wear your hiking shoes, wear your hiking clothes, bring water, lunch, a camera and sunscreen and set off down the trail. Give yourself anywhere from 2 to 8 hours. The trail is pretty flat, though it has its minor ups-and-downs. Go in as far as you wish, stop and gaze wherever you want, lay down on a rock next to a lake if it suits you (there are several) and take side jaunts if you feel the desire. The scenery everywhere is glorious. While there will be other day-trippers, there is plenty of room for all. Mosquitoes are an issue usually only in June and July. On the way home, stop in at the cafe for a hamburger and a piece of usually wonderful homemade pie. The rhubarb pie, in season, is fantastic! See more..
   
7. 5.0 Montgomery Woods State Reserve (97 reviews)
   - Forest Bathing
   Friday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
   
   
   A walk in these woods are the perfect morning activity after a stay at Orr Hot Springs down the road. Love this short hike through the woods, that you can easily extend to a slowly meander and exploration. Pretty shaded and thus cold, bring your layers and a jacket. Trail can get slippery when wet. Wear good shoes and tread lightly. Plan ahead and pack a picnic to enjoy in the woods, you won't regret it. See more..
   
8. 5.0 Rock Climb Every Day (97 reviews)
   - Private 8 hour climbing trip with Jim "The Machine"
   Friday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Climbing Tours
   
   
   Our instructor, Jim "The Machine" made our climbing trip to Joshua Tree the best we've ever had. Not only is Jim incredibly knowledgeable on the subject, he is just a downright good dude! We spent 8 hours with Jim and we could have spent 8 more. We learned more than we planned to learn and had a blast the whole time. We had to move our reservation around due to weather, but Jim was happy to accommodate. I will 100% book a trip again and I am so stoked to go out and climb with Jim - it'll be like reconnecting with an old friend! See more..
   
9. 5.0 Skydive Perris (97 reviews)
   - Awesome family experience
   Friday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Skydiving
   
   
   This was an amazing family experience! The indoor skydiving instructor was fun and engaging. We took great pics on our own, but also paid for a few pics too. We had a blast. Highly recommend this exciting adventure for all ages. Super fun! See more..
   
10. 5.0 Rancho Los Alamitos (95 reviews)
    - A little bit of local California history
    Friday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
    
    
    Rancho Los Alamitos, the “Ranch of the Little Cottonwoods,” is a Long Beach City Landmark and is twice listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rancho has a continuous history of habitation that stretches back for more than 1500 years and reflects the many people who have called it home – from the first people, the Tongva, to the Spanish and Mexican colonists, right up to the Yankee farmers of the mid-twentieth century. The 7½-acre site includes four acres of nationally significant historic gardens, a ranch house (1790-1933), and a restored barnyard of the early 20th-century working ranch. There are farm animals including horses, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and rabbits in the barns area. See more..
    
11. 5.0 Black Tie Ski Rentals of North Lake Tahoe (94 reviews)
    - Great rental experience!
    Friday: 7:30 AM - 9:00 PM Gear Rentals
    
    
    Spend your next ski vacation...skiing! Don't waste a minute waiting in line at ski equipment rental shops. With Black Tie Ski Rentals' delivery service, you can place your order for skis, snowboards, boots and helmets before you arrive. Then we'll deliver the equipment and do a professional, custom fitting in your hotel room, condo or vacation home. Wherever you're staying in the area, we bring our premier ski shop to you. See more..
    
12. 5.0 The Water Conservation Garden (94 reviews)
    - Unexpected, quality collection
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Gardens
    
    
    If for some reason you find yourself in the East County of San Diego and you're looking for something to do, this is a nice option. We happen to be new homeowners looking for landscape ideas the first time we came here 5 years ago. We return often. A very peaceful place with excellent docents. See more..
    
13. 5.0 Ventura Food Tours (94 reviews)
    - Ventura Food Adventure
    Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historical & Heritage Tours • Walking Tours • Private Tours • Food Tours • Wine Tours & Tastings
    
    
    This was a delightful tour that allowed us to not only taste great food, but also learn about the city of Ventura. Manuel was a knowledgeable, charming host who knows the area well. Great way to spend part of a day, and we didn’t need to eat dinner that night because we were so full! See more..
    
14. 5.0 Lula Cellars (93 reviews)
    - More fun than a barrel of . . . WINE!
    Friday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards
    
    
    Winery & Tasting Room See more..
    
15. 5.0 The Day Spa of Ojai (92 reviews)
    - Lovely, Memorable and Relaxing Experience
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spas
    
    
    The Day Spa of Ojai strives for quality service and satisfaction with professional and courteous staff. Therapists are highly trained and experienced to recognize and apply various treatments and premium products to our guests' specific needs. We specialize in massage, facials, body wraps & exfoliations, foot and hand treatments. Our mission: To offer a place of tranquility and rejuvenation. A place to reconnect with the spirit within ones self... Family owned/operated since 1998. In April of 2015, we relocated to the downtown village area. Walking distance to Hotels, Restaurants, Libby Park and interesting retail shops. Please come visit us at our new location! 209 N. Montgomery Str., Ojai CA. 93023 See more..
    
16. 5.0 Sky's the Limit Ballooning Adventures (91 reviews)
    - Great sunset ride to celebrate my 60th bday.
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Balloon Rides
    
    
    James, Kristin and team were awesome. We did the sunset ride to celebrate my 60th birthday. Both are very are committed to making sure everyone is safe, explaining every step of the balloon riding event, what to expect and safety rules one must follow to ride. They have worked hard to build this business and are committed to your safety. James and Kristin provided narrative on what we were seeing, how the balloon is controlled and any questions we may have had. I would 100% recommend them!! See more..
    
17. 5.0 Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation (90 reviews)
    - Wonderful, informative and enriching.
    Art Museums
    
    
    Please be advised that in accordance with the City of Los Angeles’ requirements for public spaces, the Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation will continue requiring all visitors attending a tour to show proof of vaccination. A copy of a vaccine card is acceptable in lieu of the real card, or a digital version (on a phone app) may also be used. As always, wearing a mask while indoors is required. While outdoors, the mask may be removed. See more..
    
18. 5.0 Clublender (90 reviews)
    - Class act
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Gear Rentals
    
    
    Clublender rents premium golf equipment, including sets from Callaway and TaylorMade. We rent sets anytime, anywhere in anywhere in the contiguous United States. We also offer rangefinders, balls and gloves. Own the experience, not the clubs, and skip the hassle of checking, shipping or taking your chances renting at a course. We can look into delivering to your hotel, course, home or office. See more..
    
19. 5.0 Founders Grove (88 reviews)
    - Best grove of trip!
    Forests
    
    
    This was probably our families favorite hike in the redwoods, and it's hardly even a hike. It was easy to access and park, is only about 0.5 miles but we spent probably over an hour here. The trail is beautiful around every turn. Additionally there are TONS of trees to climb on, which was of course, the kids favorite thing. it even included this insane tree that had fallen down that we could all climb on and take a picture. Can't miss this stop. See more..
    
20. 5.0 Coronado Public Library (88 reviews)
    - Worth Visiting
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Libraries
    
    
    We really just wanted to use the library bathroom, but were taken by the excellent assortment of books for sale in the lobby. As well, they have a little bookstore at the back of the library with worthwhile books for sale at very reasonable prices. Bravo! See more..
    
21. 5.0 Mullin Automotive Museum (88 reviews)
    - Fantastic Automotive Museum--Ventura County Hidden Gem
    Speciality Museums
    
    
    Fantastic automotive museum in Oxnard, CA. This museum will thrill not just car lovers, but also lovers of Art Deco and French design. Beautifully designed and built luxury automobiles, with many having been authentically restored. Not to be missed if you're visiting the Oxnard/Ventura/Malibu/Santa Barbara area. See more..
    
22. 5.0 Omescape (88 reviews)
    - great decor, fun challenges, test your wits
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Trapped in a locked room with friends or strangers, can you find the secrets and escape? Time is running out, the clock is ticking, are you up for this 60-minute challenge? Featured in Wall Street Journal, OMESCAPE, the latest craze in Asia, is finally coming to the US, with its first store opening in Richmond, Bay Area in May 2014. Like us on Facebook and stay tuned. See more..
    
23. 5.0 Monterey Bay Eco Tours (87 reviews)
    - Wild life!! Birds! Otters! Seals!
    Safaris • Boat Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    This was my Mother’s Day gift to myself & my mom. I’ve kayaked this slough, about 10 years ago & decided that I didn’t want to have hook my mom up to my kayak to get her back out when the wind picked up. It was so great to go so far down into the slough. Bring your binoculars ask Wyatt the naturalist every question you can think off (my 8 year old did) and have a great time. You will see the wildlife you are hoping to see at a distance that isn’t distressing to them. Will book again, definitely. See more..
    
24. 5.0 Toy Story Midway Mania! (86 reviews) from $285.00
    - Google this ride before you ride !!!
    Rides & Activities
    
    
    We always love this ride. Each time we visit this park we do it at least 3 or 4 times. This was the first time that I realised there was more than just skill to it. I always wondered how people got such high scores until I did a search on the ride and found there were many tricks and tips that you need to follow. If you play it normally it's fun, but if you know the tips and tricks it becomes addictive and you want to try again and again to unlock some of the unique scenes.. Worth googling the ride before doing it and you'll have so much more fun... See more..
    
25. 5.0 California Theatre (85 reviews)
    - Went for a Symphony Show. Loved it. Fantastic performance by the musicians.
    Theaters
    
    
    The California Theatre in San Jose, California is managed and operated by San Jose Theaters, a division of Team San Jose. It regularly hosts major performances from Opera San Jose, Symphony Silicon Valley and other organizations. This beautiful theatre, originally built in 1927 and renovated starting in 2001, marries the opulence of its movie palace origins with state-of-the-art performing arts venue attributes. The California Theatre is Available to Rent * 1,122 seating capacity, with up to 14 wheelchair areas * State-of-the-art production and audio visual technology * Stage Size: 90'x40' * Several dressing rooms See more..
    
26. 5.0 Effie Yeaw Nature Center (85 reviews)
    - A gem in Sacramento!
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    
    
    My husband and I moved to our current home in Sacramento specifically because of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and adjoining Ancil Hoffman Park. The Nature Center offers weekend guided tours and classes in a natural setting along the American River. I love to take walks along the many trails, viewing the deer, turkeys, birds and occasional coyote. Because it's a preserve, dogs, horses and other domestic animals are not allowed. There is a $5 parking fee which goes to a good cause. Come experience a little bit of the wild in the city. See more..
    
27. 5.0 Monterey Bay Hydrobikes (84 reviews)
    - Wonderful way to see sealife upclose
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Boat Rentals
    
    
    We have kayaked in the area before but never hydrobike. We made the reservation a month prior as we were camping in the area. This is a good activity as you are not so close to others with some distance involved. I bike frequently so I thought the ride was fun but my companions rarely bike, if ever, and it was a little tiring for them. The guy would make recommendations if you asked questions, and he recommended us to take the 8:30 appointment so easier for us with tide rising. However, he can not predict the weather but it did end up being perfect weather with sun coming out about 45 minutes into our ride. The bike is safe weight over 100#, so it was fine standing on the side or stand up to watch sealife while riding. Definitely a highly suggested activity. See more..
    
28. 5.0 Giant Sequoia National Monument (84 reviews)
    - Great Sequoia National Monument - Beautiful!!!
    Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests
    
    
    The Park was truly beautiful and deserves a few days of camping. I was only there for a few hours to look around due to my schedule, but the scenery was spectacular! I was able to see only a few areas, but I’m ready for another trip! Kernville was also a wonderful place I’d recommend people get a hotel room to see the park. Great vacation location!! See more..
    
29. 5.0 Fonts Point (84 reviews)
    - Blown away!
    Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails • Off-Road & ATV Trails
    
    
    As a photographer I always seek out the best sunset spots and this one did not disappoint. In fact, I would rate it in the top 5 ever. Get there early as the shadows across the Borrego Badlands are stunning and the golden hue plays out over an extended period. There are mountains an all sides of the overlook and if you get some clouds in the sky just sit back and be amazed! The sandy dirt road back to the overlook is 4 miles and quite washboarded but a 2WD vehicle will make it if you take it slow. The evening we were there we stayed for two hours and there were many people that came out. See more..
    
30. 5.0 Cantiga Wineworks (83 reviews)
    - Learning about wine never tasted so good.
    Friday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards
    
    
    Enjoy amazing wines while owner, Rich, explains how he makes his wines... And why they taste very different (and delicious) than nearly all Californian wines. Typically, he'll have nibbles to go with his different wines. He and his wife pride themselves on crafting wines that compliment food. People who have "sensitivities" to chemicals in wine, will love this winery. They keep true to the grape. See more..
    
31. 5.0 Indigeny Reserve (82 reviews)
    - A must see and visit.
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Distilleries
    
    
    This was a winning surprise tucked away from the highway. Fabulous grounds, great tasting cider in many flavors and cheerful friendly service. Great play areas for children and families. We were even permitted an overnight stay in the back wooded area in our RV. Right next to a gently flowing stream lined with tall oaks and bordered by the Apple Orchard. Trails for walking to the mine, views of the lake, and trails for bike riding. Will definitely return. See more..
    
32. 5.0 Shasta-Trinity National Forest (80 reviews)
    - TOTAL BLESS
    National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests • Volcanos
    
    
    This was our first trip to this area of California. We read the Trip Advisor reviews and recommendations, so we were excited for our new adventure. Our trip to this forest was our most favorite. We took Hwy 89 to find the forest and then looked for signs to the McCloud waterfalls. Drive past the Fowler Campgrounds. We first found the Middle Falls, which was fairly close to the parking lot. We didn't see another soul during our hour visit to the falls. We took in the whole experience using all of our senses. We just stared at the beautiful blue water flowing over the rocks. It's not often we STOP everything and just "be" with nature. This is nature at its best. I'm glad my left foot was injured and we couldn't walk to the Upper Falls. This forced us to just stop and fully enjoy this magical experience. See more..
    
33. 5.0 Grace Hudson Museum (79 reviews)
    - Beautiful garden and museum, friendly staff
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
    
    
    The Grace Hudson Museum offers exhibitions and programs on regional fine art; the artwork and legacy of early California painter Grace Carpenter Hudson (1865-1937); exquisite examples of Pomo Indian basketry; and various aspects of local, state, and American history. Serving the public since 1978, the campus includes the historic Sun House, a 1911 Craftsman bungalow that was Grace Hudson’s home and studio for over 25 years. Now a living museum, the Sun House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is part of the prestigious national Historic Artists Homes and Studios program. The museum's newest feature is the Wild Gardens, an outdoor educational environment focusing on native Northern California plants and habitats. The museum’s gift shop features culturally distinctive gifts, including art prints, jewelry, cards, baskets and many other seasonal items. See more..
    
34. 5.0 Hsi Lai Temple (78 reviews)
    - I felt it this time
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites
    
    
    Hsi Lai Temple encompasses 15 acres and a floor area of 102,432 square feet. The temple's Ming (1268-1644 C. E.) and Ching (1644-1911 C.E.) dynasty architecture is faithful to the traditional style of buildings, gardens and statuary of traditional ancient Chinese monasteries. Hsi Lai means "coming to the West" and signifies the dedication of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order to spread the teachings of the Buddha to those in the West. The International Buddhist Progress Society, a nonprofit organization, is the chartered name for the temple. Hsi Lai Temple was built to serve as a spiritual and cultural center for those interested in learning more about Buddhism and the Chinese culture. It is the idea of Venerable Master Hsing Yun to propagate "Humanistic Buddhism" and to create a Pure Land here on earth. Hsi Lai Temple is built to fulfill these goals in the United States. The temple's objectives are to nurture Buddhist missionaries through education, to propagate Buddhism through cultural activities, to benefit society through charitable programs, and to edify the populace through Buddhist practices. Please visit our website for more details about visiting and booking tours if needed. See more..
    
35. 5.0 iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Ontario (78 reviews)
    - While I would never jump out of a functioning airplane, GREAT FUN!
    Friday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Game & Entertainment Centers
    
    
    Ever dream of flying? Now you can at iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Ontario. Experience the thrill of skydiving without having to jump from a perfectly good airplane - no falling, no parachutes, just you floating on a smooth cushion of air with our professional instructor right next to you. No special skills are needed, just a sense of adventure. iFLY is safe for kids 3 and up, fun for the entire family, and perfect for birthday parties or groups. iFLY is the experience of a lifetime. See more..
    
36. 5.0 Trapped Escape Room (76 reviews)
    - Great fun!
    Friday: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Trapped! Escape Room has been a premier escape room company in Southern California since 2015. Trapped! has now expanded to San Dimas and Las Vegas offering some of the most exciting and immersive rooms in the area. See more..
    
37. 5.0 The Kern Valley Museum (74 reviews)
    - An Historic Look and the Kern Valley.
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM History Museums
    
    
    Revisit the Old West: Native American art, local brands, movies filmed in the Valley, art gallery, pioneer photos, mining equipment, mountain cabin, Graham Truck, stagecoach and lots more. Friendly docents will give you a guided tour and it's all free! See more..
    
38. 5.0 MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation (74 reviews)
    - Entertaining and Educational
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Science Museums
    
    
    MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration Innovation, is a one-of-a-kind museum for all ages designed to ignite learning through interactive experiences in science and creativity. The museum's three floors are filled with 17,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits that encourage open-ended discovery, analytical assessment, experimentation, play and just plain fun. See more..
    
39. 5.0 Parducci Wine Cellars (73 reviews)
    - Sipping red on a Saturday
    Friday: 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM Wineries & Vineyards
    
    
    Normally not one to venture on my own in a new area, but I looked up things that a single woman traveling could do affordable in Ukiah and the surrounding areas and stumbled across this gem. I loved the decor, from the inside to the outside. I'm not a big wine drinker so I thought I would do the flight of the delicious red wine and pairing and needless to say it did not disappoint. Friendly and relaxing atmosphere, not pushy ended up with a nice bottle of red wine and some mints. Would go back again with hopefully new friends that I make while on this travel assignment. Grab a bottle or two and a t-shirt! Its a really cool place to just sit and unwind with a glass of wine and friends or even by yourself. See more..
    
40. 5.0 Steal and Escape (72 reviews)
    - Tons of fun for kids and adults
    Friday: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Our rooms allow you to escape reality and interact with a scenario from a different time and place. STEAL and ESCAPE offers live, interactive, adventurous games, designed for groups of 2-6 people. The room is full of puzzles, riddles, keys and locks. The goal is simple yet challenging: complete the game in 60 minutes. See more..
    
41. 5.0 Tahoe Vista Treetop (72 reviews)
    - So happy to make fun summer memories even in the time of Corona virus.
    Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
    
    
    Great time challenging ourselves on the ropes courses and having fun on the ziplines. We're in our mid 50's with our 20 year old kids. Corona virus precautions were in place. We wore masks during the check in, gear up and orientation - then they were optional once you're up in the trees. We stayed with our family group and it was not crowded due to reservations and limited numbers during each 2.5 hour time frame. Hand sanitizer at the end of each of the 9 courses too. Staff was very helpful and kind. t's a great activity in the great outdoors - views of the lake included! See more..
    
42. 5.0 Stanford Memorial Church (69 reviews)
    - Bring on the Music
    Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals
    
    
    Memorial church serves its campus community in a variety of worship settings, but it also has a lot of free offerings for the wider community in its worship offerings. Although most of the music is performed by Stanford folks, this is not a put down since the faculty and students and friends are greatly talented. We like the evening vesper services as an alternative to most Christian worship services—quiet and thoughtful and short. See more..
    
43. 5.0 Cloud's Rest (69 reviews)
    - Half Dome Lottery Fail, but what a Plan B
    Geologic Formations
    
    
    On our through hike of the JMT, we headed off trail to Sunset Lake for water and to camp. The next day we climbed Clouds Rest. I was not prepared for how incredible this hike was. After 9 days on the trail, we had our legs and climbed past many day hikers to the summit over that knives edge section to one of the best viewpoints on our hike from VVR to Yosemite. Simply a day to treasure as well as a trip of a lifetime. See more..
    
44. 5.0 Yosemite 360 Tours (69 reviews)
    - Expert Yosemite Valley Tour, would do it again!
    Day Trips
    
    
    Tyler was so friendly and knowledgeable, patient and generous. He anticipated needs and met every expectation and more. We are dealing with the Washburn fire so the ride was much longer to get to the West Gate and the wait as well but he was patient and made sure we saw everything in the valley. He let us know ahead of time that conditions (smoke and visibility) might not be ideal but who would miss out on Yosemite?! We are so happy we did not let the fire and smoke deter us from a great day! Thanks Tyler! See more..
    
45. 5.0 Dipsea Trail (69 reviews)
    - Exciting trail!
    Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails
    
    
    I did this trail with a friend- we started down Dipsea, then continued on to Stinson Beach, and then came back to the parking lot on the steep ravine trail. It was 7+ miles total and I can tell you that the way down was pretty much all down hill and the way back was alllllll uphill, but it was a gorgeous trail. Even with a ton of fog! I loved it and would do it again. See more..
    
46. 5.0 Open Door Escape Games - Kidnapped (68 reviews)
    - Excellent!
    Friday: 12:30 PM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    We provide an interactive entertainment experience where you have 60 minutes to use your intellect and wit to work as a team with the other players to solve puzzles, decipher clues and ultimately find the key to escape the room before time runs out See more..
    
47. 5.0 Boy Scout Big Tree Trail (68 reviews)
    - Pluses over minuses
    Spent 2-3 hours Hiking Trails
    
    
    Leaving a 4 not a 5 for a few technicalities. First the sign says 2.8, gps gave 3.45. Also the trail isn’t difficult in grade but the roots and mud make it more treacherous, that’s nature. Beautiful groves with sunlight streaming through the canopy. The falls aren’t that impressive but it’s the end game so go the extra 1/4 mile from Boy Scout tree. The parking lot was full at 9:45 am and when we finished at 3hrs 15, it was overflowing but it doesn’t feel crowded on the trail. See more..
    
48. 5.0 Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum (67 reviews)
    - Great for Kids of All Ages - Don't Miss a Visit Here!
    Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 1, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Science Museums • Children's Museums • History Museums
    
    
    The Museum is open from early spring to the second weekend in December. Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum is a self-supported, volunteer operated museum with a 501(c)(3) tax status. To fulfill its mission, the museum has exhibits on the history and science related to Mt. Shasta and the surrounding areas. There are many hands-on activities for children and adults. The museum shares the same grounds as a state fish hatchery, where visitors love to view and feed the fish. The Museum consists of three large exhibit halls and an events room for special activities and displays. New exhibits are installed at the museum on a regular basis. A changing array of special installations including quilt shows and art displays are arranged every 6 weeks in the Events Room. See more..
    
49. 5.0 Ventura Food Tours Eating Ojai Tasting Tour (67 reviews)
    - An insider’s view of a terrific food scene!
    Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Food Tours
    
    
    Our guide Christina made our tasting tour of Ojai memorable. My wife and I have been to Ojai many times but never fully-appreciated what we were seeing, or enjoyed it so much. If you like food, history and natural beauty this is a wonderful way to spend a day. Highly recommended in every way. See more..
    
50. 5.0 Lakes Basin (66 reviews)
    - Great views of mountain lakes
    Bodies of Water • Mountains
    
    
    We hiked to Bear Lake, Little Bear Lake, Cub Lake, and Long Lake. A nice loop to see them all. Not that long, a little strenuous if you are old like me, and are dealing with chemo treatments. But we loved it, and highly recommend the hike See more..
    

What's a Hidden gem?

We call places hidden gems that are new, extremely good, but are not that popular yet - you should check them out. The criteria is to have a rating of 4.5 or more and more than 20 reviews and less than 100 reviews.