California State Guide from Cheap Hotels Worldwide
California is one of the largest and most diverse states in America. From major cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco to beaches along the Pacific Coast and the vast landscape of forests, deserts, and mountains, there are an endless amount of places to visit. Surfing, Hollywood movie stars, and Mexican-influenced culture are just some of the things that California is famous for.
Northern California is acknowledged as one of the greatest unspoiled travel destinations in the world. Northern California is also home to the area known as Wine Country, a world-renowned wine producing region. The two most famous regions are the Napa and Sonoma valleys, but there are many smaller, lesser-known areas that contribute. Wine Country is home to over four hundred wineries, some of which have been in operation since the early 1900s. This area is also known for its beautiful California Oak forests and ecosystems, historic sites, and festivities throughout the year.
Experience the beauty of the California Redwood Forest in the city of Arcata, about eight hundred miles north of Los Angeles and three hundred miles north of San Francisco. The Arcata Community Forest and Redwood Park contains almost ten miles of trails for biking, hiking, or jogging. The Arcata Marsh Wildlife and Interpretive Center is a nationally recognized habitat where you can enjoy bird watching and enjoy the view of Arcata and the foothills. The weather here is typical of the northern part of the state, with mild summers and cool wet winters.
Yreka is a small city located in the northernmost portion of California, Siskiyou County. Outdoor activities are very popular, especially fishing, skiing, hiking and biking. Some natural landmarks in Yreka are Lake Siskiyou, Trinity Alps, and the Falls of McCloud River. Located nearby are Shasta Cascade and Lake.
The city of Redding is located just south of Mount Shasta, Shasta Lake, and Shasta Caverns. Also visit the Redding Museum of Art and History, the Schreder Planetarium, and the Redding Arboretum.
The city of Red Bluff is located where Reeds Creek joins the Sacramento River.
The city of Willows is located Glenn County, and it has just over six thousand residents. Here you can visit the local farms of Cenral Valley, go fishing in Stony Gorge Lake, or visit larger nearby cities.
The city of Eureka is located in Humboldt County. On one side of Eureka is the beautiful Humboldt Bay, and on the other side are mountains and lush wooded areas.
The city of Fortuna is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west and the Eel River on the east. It is famous for its events and festivals throughout the year. Fort Bragg, in Mendocino County, was founded during the American Civil War as a military fort. Glass Beach is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches in the country, with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
The city of Napa lies in the center of the Napa Valley. Large festivals take place here throughout the year such as the Napa Town & Country Fair, the Napa Valley Expo, and the Wine and Crafts Faire. Nearby is the city of St. Helena. Walk through St. Helena's past by visiting their Spirits in Stone Gallery, take a tour of the Beaucannon Winery, or enjoy a hot air balloon ride with Bonaventure Tours or Balloons over the Valley.
The city of Vallejo is located on the northeastern shore of San Pablo Bay, along Napa River. It contains the Blue Rock Springs natural sulfur springs. Nearby Mare Island has a Naval Shipyard, historic park, and a golf course. The most famous attraction in Vallejo is the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom amusement park.
Dixon is famous for its May Fair Festival, the longest running yearly festival in the state. Santa Rosa is the largest city in Sonoma. Resort areas like the Russian River are popular tourist attractions. Some important local sites are the Charles Schultz Museum and Research Center, Luther Burbank Home and Gardens, and the Railroad Square Historic District. Recreational areas like Annadel State Park, Prince Memorial Greenway, and Spring Lake contain biking and walking trails, sightseeing areas, and golf courses.
Positioned in the largest grape harvesting region in Sonoma County, the wine rich Alexander Valley, Cloverdale has an abundance of recreational opportunities and natural beauty. Its location in northern California allows it access to Russian River Park and it is also just minutes away from the magnificent Lake Sonoma.
The town of Healdsburg located in Sonoma County, calls itself a Town For All Seasons. See the Dry Creek Valley or Alexander Valley where you can visit the many wineries, farms, studios and art galleries. Take a bike tour through wine country, rent a canoe, or go horseback riding to enjoy some of the beautiful scenery. The city of Rohnert Park is home to the Sonoma State University. There are several beautiful parks which offer recreational opportunities: the Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve, Annadel State Park, the Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, and several others are all nearby.
Ukiah is the largest city in Mendocino County, in the area known as Yokayo Rancho. The area is mostly used for organic farming, but also features two breweries and numerous wineries with prestigious labels, including Frey and Bonterra. Ukiah also has a Symphony Orchestra, Players Theatre, and Opera, and is the home of the Mendocino Ballet. Vichy Springs, a naturally-carbonated hot springs, are a world-famous attraction located in Ukiah. Just outside Ukiah is the Abhayagiri Buddhist Monastery and City of Ten Thousand Buddha's, one of the most prominent Buddhist communities in the Western world.
The San Francisco Bay Area is a large, densely populated metropolitan region that is home to over seven million people. This region is located along the Pacific West Coast in Northern California and surrounds the San Francisco and San Pablo bays. The Bay Area is comprised of nine counties, wherein lie the major cities of San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose, as well as many smaller cities and rural areas. It is known for being one of the wealthiest areas in the country, as well as one of the most culturally diverse and politically liberal. Much of the area is linked together by the Bay Area Rapid Transit System (often called BART), along with six major bus transit lines and three international airports.
San Francisco, the fourth-largest city in California, is the most prominent city of the San Francisco Bay metropolitan area. The Bay Area has a total population of over seven million. The city is located on the San Francisco Peninsula, between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay. San Francisco is known for being a cosmopolitan and culturally diverse city, with a landscape characterized by steep hills and eclectic architectural styles. Some of the most famed landmarks in San Francisco are the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, the San Francisco Cable Car System, and Alcatraz Island.
San Mateo is a large city situated on the San Francisco Peninsula. Here you can visit the Japanese Gardens in Central Park, the San Mateo Performing Arts Center, and the Bay Meadows horse racing track.
The city of Millbrae is also located in San Mateo County along the San Andreas Fault, south of the city of San Bruno. The city is small and peaceful, with over eighty percent of its residents commuting outside the area for work.
Half Moon Bay is located approximately twenty eight miles south of San Francisco and lies within the westernmost portion of San Mateo County. The city is nestled on the Pacific Coast between forested hills and has some of the most beautiful coastline in the state of California.
Daly City is a heavily Asian-influenced area with miles of coastline along the Pacific Ocean. Redwood City is located in San Mateo County on the San Francisco Peninsula, where the Port of Redwood City is located.
Middletown is a small town located between the cities of Calistoga and Lower Lake, in Lake County.
Oakland is the eighth-largest city in California, located across the bay from San Francisco. Oakland is home to three major sports teams: The Oakland Raiders football team, the Golden State Warriors basketball team, and the Oakland Athletics baseball team. The city is full of attractions including Chinatown, Jack London Square, the Oakland Zoo, and the Chabot Space and Science Center. The Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach and Lake Merritt are popular for swimming, boating, and picnicking.
The city of Mill Valley is located beneath Mount Tamalpais and experiences a mild Mediterranean climate throughout the year. Mill Valley has large areas of undeveloped natural space and recreational parks. Visit the wilderness preservation in Cascade Falls Park, the aquatic preservation on Richardson Bay and the Strawberry Lagoon, and numerous nature trails in the Homestead Valley.
Fremont is a large city with breathtaking views from the top of Mission Peak.
The city of Newark is an enclave of the city of Fremont, in Alameda County. Visit the Newport Mall, the Ardenwood Historic Farm, or one of thirteen parks.
Union City is located in Alameda County. The Union Landing and the Safeway Marketplace are two prominent retail and entertainment centers in Union City. The city has many historic landmarks, like the Flight 93 Memorial and the Old Alvarado Business District in downtown Union City. Quarry Lakes is a waterfront recreational area which offers boating, swimming, and fishing.
Pleasanton is a city with a small-town feel. Every Wednesday, there is a street fair along Main Street; every Friday, a concert in the Lions Wayside Park; and every Saturday, a Farmers Market on Main Street. The Alameda County Fairgrounds and Shadow Cliffs Regional Park are located in Pleasanton.
The city of Alameda is situated on a small island next to Oakland, and is often referred to as The Island City because of its great location. Enjoy the small-town feel and Victorian homes, as well as beautiful views of the San Francisco skyline and San Francisco Bridge.
Emeryville has a thriving biotechnology industry, and is also the headquarters of Pixar Studios.
The city of Dublin is known as the crossroads of the Bay Area, with equal distances from Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose.
Lafayette is a small town of less than twenty five thousand on the outskirts of the Bay Area. The Lafayette Reservoir is surrounded by a scenic bike trail. Antioch is one of the oldest towns in California, with a history dating back to the gold rush of the mid-1800s. Visit the many beautiful attractions like Mt. Diablo State Park, the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, and the Contra Loma Regional Park and Reservoir.
The city of Concord is the largest city in Contra Costa County and is the home of the Concord Jazz Festival. Also in the East Bay area is the city of Brentwood, a well-known agricultural area with many small, local orchards and farms.
The city of Danville is home to a 350-year-old oak tree and an otherwise quiet community. Richmond has a number of parks and historic places. The Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, the Miller-Knox Regional Shoreline, and the Point Pinole Regional Shoreline are some of the most visited recreational areas in the city. Point Richmond is a quaint village area where the Masquers Playhouse is located, along with shopping and dining. The Ferry Point Tunnel, in Brickyard Cove, was built in 1899 and connects to parks and beaches, as well as the Golden State Railroad Museum and the USS Red Oak Victory.
The city of Livermore lies on the outskirts of the East Bay Area. It is surrounded by the Livermore Valley, and American Viticulture Area. You can tour over twenty five wineries in the area, or take a walking tour of the downtown historic area from the Livermore History Center and Art Gallery. There are three local parks: Shadow Cliffs Regional Park, Del Valle Regional Park, and Robertson Park.
Santa Cruz is located along Monterey Bay. It is a famous surfing community and resort town with a number of state beaches and parks. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an amusement park which has been running since 1911. The Santa Cruz Wharf is famous for fishing and sightseeing.
The city of Berkeley is located on the eastern part of the San Francisco Bay. It is just north of Oakland, and just south of San Francisco. Its namesake school, University of California at Berkeley, is one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the country. The culture in Berkeley is largely centered on the university, known for its diverse and free-thinking students.
Fairfield is located in the northeastern Bay Area. The Travis Air Force Base, Clorox factory, and Budweiser brewery are some of the many industries in Fairfield. Also located in the East San Francisco Bay Area is the city of Hayward. The Gairn and Dry Creek Pioneer Park is a popular tourist destination. Here you will find horseback riding and hiking trails as well as opportunities to take in some fishing. Also enjoy the Skywest Public Golf Course, the Japanese Gardens, or shopping at Jack London Square.
Silicon Valley is an area at the southern end of the San Francisco Bay Area. This area also includes the Santa Clara Valley and the surrounding communities. Silicon Valley is known for its prevalence of high-technology, engineering, and computer companies. Venture Capital firms and software and internet development are other important industries within Silicon Valley. Many world-famous Fortune 500 companies are headquartered here, including Apple Inc. eBay, and Google.
San Jose is situated in the southern Bay Area in the Santa Clara Valley. It is the third-largest city in California with close to one million residents. San Jose is called the Capital of Silicon Valley. Originally founded as a Spanish colony in 1777, San Jose has many historic sites and examples of Spanish Colonial architecture, especially in the Downtown Historic District. The performing arts are very popular in this city, with the San Jose Reparatory Theatre, the HP Pavilion at San Jose, and Children's Musical Theatre of San Jose, as well as a city Opera, Ballet, and Symphony. San Jose also has several outdoor parks and recreational areas, including Guadalupe River Park and Trail.
The city of Milpitas is located in the South Bay area. The Diablo Mountain Range lies to the east of the city, with Monument Peak being one of the most prominent symbols of Milpitas. There are many shopping areas within the city, such as Parktown Plaza, Beresford Square, and the Great Mall of the Bay Area.
Menlo Park is a small, wealthy city in San Mateo County. It has several historic landmarks, and is near to Stanford University.
Palo Alto is a wealthy city located in the Bay Area of Santa Clara County. It is the home of Stanford University.
Santa Clara is located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Its most famous attraction is the Paramount Great America amusement park.
The city of Campbell is also located within the Santa Clara Valley in the Bay Area. It combines historic areas with modern amenities in a small town setting.
Morgan Hill in Santa Clara, is bordered by the Santa Cruz Mountains in the west. Visit one of the many parks and recreational areas here: Anderson Lake County Park, Uvas Canyon County Park, and the Morgan Hill Community Culture and Aquatic Center.
Mountain View is also located along the Santa Cruz Mountains. It is one of the major cities that comprise Silicon Valley, with the headquarters of companies such as Google, AOL, and Symantec. The most famous area in Mountain View is Shoreline Park, which features hiking and biking trails, an eighteen-hole golf course, and a fifty-acre lake and aquatic center for sailing, kayaking, and canoeing.
The city of Sunnyvale is located south of the San Francisco Bay in Santa Clara County. It is a major city within the Silicon Valley; the companies Yahoo! and Lockheed Martin are located here, among others. The Air Force Station Onizuku is located in Sunnyvale. The community in Sunnyvale is predominantly residential, with shopping malls, several parks, and golf courses.
The California Central Valley spans four hundred miles, from the Sacramento Valley in the north to the San Joaquin Valley in the south. Central Valley is surrounded by mountains, but the interior land is mainly flat. Many rivers and deltas run through Central Valley which, along with the year-round Mediterranean climate, makes it perfect for farming. Central Valley is known for being one of the foremost agriculture-producing areas in the world, and accounts for one-third of the food grown in the entire United States. Along most of the area in the Central Valley consists of rural areas, there are several large metropolitan cities like Sacramento and Fresno.
The city of Sacramento is the state capital of California. Sacramento lies at the northern part of Central Valley, with the Sacramento River and the American River running alongside it. Sacramento is a major center for music, visual arts, and theatre, served by venues like the Crocker Art Museum, the Community Center Theatre and Memorial Auditorium in the Sacramento Convention Center.
Woodland is a suburb of Sacramento, located in Yolo County. It hosts many exciting events throughout the year, including the Yolo County Fair, the Stroll Through History, and the Christmas Parade. There are several historic sites to visit: the Hedrick Ag History Center, a unique agricultural museum; the Yolo County Historical Museum, built in 1857; and the Woodland Opera House, a California Historic Landmark. Yuba City is north of Sacramento. It contains Sutter Buttes, the World's Smallest Mountain Range. Outside of Sacramento is the city of Davis. Davis has a strong emphasis on the arts and entertainment, as well as education at the University of California Davis.
Roseville in Placer County is just a thirty-minute drive from Sacramento.
The city of Marysville is located in Yuba County. Marysville is bordered by the Yuba River in the east and the Feather River in the west, with Ellis Lake in the center of the city. It's most famous attraction is the Bok Kai Temple, a temple built in 1880 to worship the Chinese gods.
The city of Anderson is easily accessed from Interstate 5. This city, with a population of about eight thousand residents, has a pleasurable landscape of grazing sheep, vineyards, orchards, oaks and redwood which lends to its incredible beauty.
The city of Folsom, north of Sacramento, boasts an eighteen thousand-acre manmade lake that borders the North. This town is also intersected by Lake Natoma, which adds to its beauty and offers miles of biking and hiking trails. The Folsom Zoo Sanctuary and the Folsom Dam are two unique places to see.
Rancho Cordova was incorporated as a city recently, in 2003, but the area has a history dating back to the Gold Rush of the 1800s. Here you can visit the American River Parkway for rafting, kayaking, and fishing, or the Mather Regional Park for golfing, camping, and sightseeing.
Chico, in the San Fernando Valley, has a wide range of historical and cultural entertainment, such as the Bidwell Mansion, the Chico Museum, and the Downtown Plaza. Bidwell Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the nation.
Fresno is one of the largest cities in California as well as a booming agricultural area, due to its location in Central Valley. It also offers many scenic places like the Shenzhen Japanese Gardens, the Forestiere Underground Gardens, and Reading Park.
The name of the city Madera comes from the Spanish word for "wood". Madera, located in the Central Valley close to Fresno, is an agricultural city which mainly produces almonds and grapes. Selma is a small city in Fresno County. It is a farming community, with a great climate and soil for growing mostly wheat and fruit.
Outside Fresno is the city of Clovis. It is known for offering an exciting array of festivals and fairs throughout the year. Modesto is a large city that is centrally located in the San Joaquin Valley. It offers several cultural attractions, including the historic McHenry Mansion and Museum, the Gallo Center for the Arts, and the State Theatre, built in 1920. Modesto is known for its activist movements, and the downtown area has a flourishing arts and nightlife scene.
The city of Merced is situated in the San Joaquin Valley and is named for the Merced River. Some of the local attractions are the Applegate Park and Zoo, the Castle Air Museum, and Merced Falls.
Williams is a small city with a population of less than 4,000. Williams is located in Colusa County.
Santa Nella is a small village with only a few hundred residents. Some of its attractions are the San Luis Reservoir and the San Joaquin Valley Cemetery.
Lodi is a city of over 60,000 located in San Joaquin County. This area is known for its production of grapes and wine, and is referred to as the Zinfandel Capital of the World. Hutchins Street Square, in Downtown Lodi, is the center the arts and music scene with theatres, art galleries, and a concert hall. The World of Wonders science museum, the Mick Grove Regional Park, and the number festivals taking place throughout the year also make up the culture of Lodi.
Stockton is a large city within the San Joaquin County of Central Valley. It is located at the crossroads of the Valley and therefore is well-connected by all modes of transportation. The Port of Stockton is a busy inland seaport which lies on the San Joaquin River and serves the California Delta and surrounding area. Some local attractions are the Haggin Museum of California History and Art, the Bob Hope Theatre, and the University of the Pacific Music Conservatory.
Tulare is a quiet city in the San Joaquin Valley. Its most noteworthy location is the Sequoia National Park. This park contains the largest tree in the world, named General Sherman.
Visalia is a central California city in Tulare County. Just outside the city limits are the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Sequoia National Park. Inside city are parks like Mooney Grove, and the Central California Chinese Cultural Center, which contains a Confucian temple, historic artifacts, and paintings.
The city of Oakdale calls itself the Cowboy Capital of the World and features the Oakdale Rodeo. Oakdale has a unique soil quality perfect for orchards and other agricultural uses.
Ridgecrest is located in Kern County in the Indian Wells Valley.
The city of Bakersfield is located at the southern end of Grand Central Valley. Galleries and museums in Bakersfield will enable you to enjoy some rich culture and history, along with places like The Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, the Fox Theatre, and the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra.
The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range covers four hundred miles along the northeastern border of California. The Sierra Nevada Region features the famous landmarks of Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park. It also contains Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States, and Death Valley, the lowest point. The Sierra Nevada Region is known for its stunning natural beauty and facilities to support a countless number of outdoor recreational activities. Most of the cities here are small and sparsely populated, and cater to the tourist community throughout the year.
Yosemite Valley is the home of Yosemite National Park, located in the eastern area of central California. Yosemite receives over three million visitors per year to visit its Yosemite Falls, Giant Sequoia forests, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, as well as numerous wilderness areas and diverse plant and animal life. Also inside the park are the Yosemite Museum, golfing, skiing, hiking, biking, and rock climbing areas, and camping and hotel facilities.
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains at an elevation of one thousand feet, Auburn is located northeast of Sacramento and southwest of Lake Tahoe. It overlooks the scenic American River Canyon, and the Auburn State Recreation Area gives you the opportunity to go horseback riding or take part in nature hikes and walks. The city has many historical venues celebrating its past as part of the California Gold Rush.
Situated in Plumas County, Chester is a small city of around two thousand residents. Lake Almanor and its shorelines gives rise to a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and water skiing. Explore Mount Lassen, and take a hike in Mount Lassen National Volcanic Park. You can also enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling in the Stover Mountain area.
Jamestown is a quaint town of three thousand in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Take part in the Murphy's Historical Walking Tour to learn more about this area. The town of Mammoth Lakes is located in the Long Valley Caldera, surrounded by the Mammoth Mountains and Sherwin Range.
Mariposa is a town of one thousand also located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Its namesake body of water, Mariposa Creek, was once rich in gold and attracted many settlers during the nineteenth century. The Mariposa surrounding area is where much of Yosemite National Park is located.
Lake Tahoe is located between California and Nevada, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is about two hours away from the city of Sacramento. Lake Tahoe is home to many resort areas, winter and summer recreational activities, and tourist attractions. This area is known for its scenic beauty and experiences over three hundred sunny days per year; it also receives over three hundred inches of snow annually. As a haven for some of the best skiing in the world, Lake Tahoe has over eighteen world-class ski resorts. Other popular winter sports in include snowmobiling, Cross Country skiing, and snowshoeing. Summer recreational activities, such as water sports, golfing, boating, and sailing also take place on Lake Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe features more recreational areas, tourist and resort destinations along its beachfront shores. Heavenly Mountain Resort, the largest ski area in California and Nevada, is located in South Lake Tahoe.
The city of Truckee is located along the Truckee River, an outlet of Lake Tahoe. The Donner Lake and State Park is the main attraction in Truckee. The climate in this area is famously wintry, and Truckee receives an average of two hundred inches of snow per year.
Conveniently located near to Western Nevada and Lake Tahoe, Alpine is a city that offers a vast choice in terms of recreation, with exciting outdoor entertainment. Also visit the nearby town of El Dorado Hills, a smaller community with many of the same amenities as the Lake Tahoe area.
Bishop is a small town of three thousand located at the southern part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The Southern California Coastal Region refers to the large concentration of cities that border the Pacific Ocean in Southern California. The three main cities in this region are Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The Southern California Coast is densely populated and affluent, as compared to the eastern portion of the state. The Southern coast is extremely diverse, from small beach communities to sprawling cities. The Los Angeles Metropolitan Area consists of over ninety cities. This is the most populous area in the United States, with over thirteen million residents.
North of Los Angeles is the city of Burbank, in the eastern part of the San Fernando Valley. Burbank is the headquarters of major entertainment companies ABC, NBC, Warner Bros, and the Walt Disney Company. Some of the distinct neighborhoods within Burbank are Magnolia Park, established in the 1920s, the Rancho Equestrian Area, and beautiful Downtown Burbank.
Situated about halfway between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, is the city of Camarillo. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and located only fifteen minutes from the Pacific Ocean, Camarillo is a vacation paradise.
Lancaster is also located about an hour north of Los Angeles in the area known as Antelope Valley. Lancaster is one of the most rapidly-growing cities in California.
The nearby city of Palmdale has many trails and camping areas, including The Devil's Punchbowl, the Joshua Ranch Trail, and the Big Rock Creek Camp, as well as the Rancho Vista Golf Course and Mountain High Ski Resort.
The small city of Monterey located along the Monterey Bay, a National Marine Sanctuary. Its Monterey Bay Aquarium is the largest in the country, well noted for the abundance and diversity of marine life. Monterey also has a flourishing arts and nightlife scene. American author John Steinbeck, a former resident, immortalized the city of Monterey in his novels East of Eden, Tortilla Flat, and Cannery Row.
The city of Seaside is located on the shore of the Monterey Bay. Seaside has two large golf courses overlooking the Pacific Ocean: Bayonet and Black Hole Golf Course, which hosts events on the PGA Tour. A famous landmark in Seaside is known as Message Mountain, a large sand dune where people write messages.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town on the Monterey Peninsula. It has a famous art history background and an active performing arts community. Marina is a quaint, picturesque city located along the Monterey Bay.
San Luis Obispo is located along the Central Coast of California. It is one of the oldest cities in California, founded as a Spanish mission in the 1770s. It is mainly known for being the home of the California Polytechnic State University. There are several buildings throughout the city designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Other historic buildings are the Carnegie Library and the Fremont Art Deco Theatre. San Luis Obispo holds many famous festivals throughout the year, such as Farmers Market in Mission Plaza every Thursday, Cinco de Mayo celebration, the Mozart Festival in June, and Christmas parade.
Cambria is a small area along the coast in San Luis Obispo County. The two most active areas are Moonstone Beach and Fiscalini Ranch.
Santa Maria is located between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo along the Santa Maria Valley. Santa Maria is now famous for its place in the California Coastal Wine Country, and Santa Maria Style cuisine.
Morro Bay is a waterfront fishing town near San Luis Obispo. Pismo Beach has the cliffs and rocky shores along the Pacific Ocean that the California coastline is famous for.
The city of Paso Robles is located on the Salinas River, and is known for its wineries.
Salinas is a city in the Salinas Valley of Monterey County, located just 8 miles from the Pacific Coast. This city is a major agriculture center, known as the Salad Bowl because it produces over 80 percent of the lettuce grown in America. The Salinas Sports Complex is famous for hosting the California Rodeo Salinas, a Wild West show. Pacific Grove is located near Monterey, with many of the same features. Its attractions are the Point Pinos Lighthouse, the Stowitts Museum and Library, and the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History.
Los Angeles is the largest city in the state of California, and the second-largest in the entire United States. Los Angeles is known for its cultural diversity and unique neighborhoods. Los Angeles is most famous for being the Entertainment Capital of the World, where many movies and television shows are produced, and where many celebrities reside. Downtown Los Angeles is hotspot for nightlife and shopping, especially in areas like Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood, and the Third Street Promenade. There are many famous sports teams in this city: the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team, the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team, and the Los Angeles Galaxy soccer team are just a few. A large number of public and private universities are located here, including the University of California, Los Angeles. Other staples of Los Angeles culture are its beaches, famous for surfing, and large Asian and Latin American population.
Santa Monica is a coastal city in western Los Angeles, situated on the Santa Monica Bay. This city is most famous for the landmark Santa Monica Pier, which contains the Pacific Park amusement park and a large Ferris wheel, as well as shops and restaurants. Also visit Palisades Park which overlooks the Pacific Ocean, the Third Street Promenade shopping district, and the Bergamot Station artist village.
El Segundo is located on the Santa Monica Bay in Los Angeles.
Glendale is an LA suburb located at the foot of the Verdugo Mountains.
Hollywood, located in western Los Angeles, is one of the most famous cities in California. It is the center of filming and production for the movie and entertainment industry. Two of its most famous landmarks are the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the often-photographed Hollywood Sign. Many awards ceremonies and movie premieres take place at the Kodak Theatre and the Grauman's Theatre. Also be sure to visit the Sunset Strip, Universal Studios, and Hollywood Wax Museum.
West Hollywood is surrounded by the cities of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Fairfax. Its population of 37,000 nearly doubles on the weekends, with locals flocking to its distinctive mix of nightlife, shopping, and dining attractions like the Roxy Theatre and the House of Blues.
Beverly Hills is a small city in west Los Angeles. It is one of the wealthiest areas in the country and is famous for its extravagant celebrity homes and high-end shopping, particularly along Rodeo Drive. Culver City is located just ten miles outside of Los Angeles.
The city of Garden Grove is just a short drive from the city of Los Angeles and the beaches of the Pacific Ocean.
Inglewood is located just south of Downtown Los Angeles. Inglewood is composed of three prominent neighborhoods: Crenshaw-Imperial, North Inglewood, and Morningside Park. Explore the history of the area in the Centinela Adobe Complex and Valley Heritage and Research Center.
Monrovia is located southeast of Los Angeles, in the San Gabriel Valley. It is full of historic landmarks like the Upton Sinclair House, home of the former American author. Also visit the Nature Center in Canyon Park, and the nearby San Gabriel Mountain range.
The town of Claremont is located at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains. The city is notorious for being well-educated and contains the Claremont Colleges.
The suburb of Commerce is located along the Los Angeles River in the eastern part of the city.
Manhattan Beach is a quiet beach city located in Los Angeles County. It is one of the three Beach Cities, along with Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach.
Redondo Beach, which also lies along the South Bay, is popular for surfing, beach volleyball, and fishing along the Redondo Pier. The Strand is a paved path which runs from south Redondo all the way to Santa Monica in the north.
In the city of Norwalk you can spend time in Norwalk Park or visit the Hargitt House Museum. Norwalk is just fifteen minutes from either Los Angeles or Anaheim.
Torrance is located in the South Bay area, only seventeen miles outside of Los Angeles. The most famous attraction in Torrance is the Del Amo Fashion Center, one of the largest malls in the country. Wilson Park features sports facilities and recreational areas, and also hosts the twice-weekly Farmers Market. Also visit Torrance Beach and Madrona Marsh, a wetland nature preserve.
The Los Angeles district of Venice is a unique beachfront area that was designed after the city of Venice, Italy. It features canals, a boardwalk, and boutique shopping areas. Venice Beach also has tennis and volleyball courts, bike trails, and the Venice Fishing Pier. Downtown Venice caters to the nightlife and culture scene with nightclubs and art galleries. Orange County refers to the area directly south of Los Angeles County. San Bernardino, Riverside, and San Diego surround Orange County on all sides excluding the western portion that is bordered by the Pacific Ocean. Orange County has a population of over two million. The area is made up of small beachside communities and larger inland cities, anchored by Santa Ana. The Orange County area has a history stretching back to the mid-1700s and is full of historic landmarks.
Anaheim is located just thirty five miles southeast of Los Angeles, in Orange County. The famous Disneyland Park is located here, as well as many other cultural, historical, and leisure attractions. Anaheim is also the home of the sports teams The Mighty Ducks of the National Hockey League, and the Anaheim Angels Major League Baseball team.
Buena Park is just north of Anaheim and is home to a large population of Asian-American residents. Its most famous attraction is the Knott's Berry Farm Amusement Park.
The city of Costa Mesa is just one mile from the Pacific Ocean and is the center of the South Coast Plaza shopping center.
Visit the large marina and scenic harbor at Dana Point.
Santa Ana is the largest city in Orange County. It has the largest Hispanic population of any city in the United States, which includes eighty percent of its residents. Santa Ana has a many artist villages and historic places to visit, including Historic French and Floral Park, Centennial Heritage Museum, and CSUF Grand Central Art Centre.
Fullerton is located in northern Orange County just twenty miles from Los Angeles.
The city of Orange has shopping, parks, a zoo and wildlife sanctuary, and the Orange Plaza and Historic District.
Lake Forest is a mostly residential city located in Orange County. From here it is just a short drive to Laguna Beach. It has two parks: the Heritage Hill historical park, and Whiting Ranch.
Irvine is a beautiful city in the heart of Orange County. Visit one of the many parks found here such as Aliso Canyon and Carbon Canyon with hiking and biking trails. See the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and Santiago Regional Park to experience its natural charm and secluded beauty.
Laguna Beach is a famous resort town in Orange County, known for its beautiful beaches and yearly art festivals.
The city of Newport Beach, along with the Newport Harbor, is another beach town in Orange County. Take a ferry ride out to out to Santa Catalina Island, Fashion Island, or Balboa Island, with exciting attractions on the Balboa Peninsula.
The city of San Clemente is located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego, in Orange County. It is just south of the town of San Juan Capistrano, and is nicknamed the Spanish Village by the Sea. San Clemente is famous for surfing culture. The San Clemente Canyon and Nature Preserve is located nearby.
The city of Westminster in Orange County was originally founded as a Presbyterian colony. Today its most famous feature is the Vietnamese-influenced area of Little Saigon. Here you can find the Asian Garden Mall and Little Saigon Plaza. Other area attractions include the Vietnam War Memorial, Liberty Skate Park, and Westminster Ice Palace.
The seaside city of Huntington Beach has 8 miles of beaches along the Pacific Ocean. World-class athletes flock to Huntington Beach to attend the US Open of Surfing and Beach Games, with Huntington being nicknamed "Surf City USA". Visit the Newland House Museum, a farmhouse located on top of a hill that offers you a stunning view of the countryside, or the Imperial Woods Trail which offers biking and hiking along the Santa Ana River.
Marina Del Ray is a boating and Fisherman's Village located just four miles from the Los Angeles International Airport.
Long Beach is the fifth-largest city in California. It is located along the Pacific Ocean coastline with eighty miles of beaches. Long beach has over ninety parks, including El Dorado Park and Nature Center. The Aquarium of the Pacific contains over twelve thousand different animals from the Pacific Ocean. Tours of the ship RMS Mary, which was built in 1932 and now serves as a museum and hotel, are available, as well as gondola rides along the Naples canals of Long Beach. The city also has a thriving nightlife, arts, music, and culture scene.
The city of Pasadena is home of the California Institute of Technology, and also hosts the yearly Rose Bowl football game and the Tournament of Roses Parade.
Pomona is a rural city located alongside the Pomona Valley. The Los Angeles County Fairgrounds and the Fairplex Pomona Raceway are located here.
San Pedro is a seaside port city which also includes the islands of Santa Catalina and Terminal Island. Visit famous landmarks and old historic buildings like the Danish Castle, the Point Fermin Lighthouse, and Cabrillo Marine Aquarium.
The city of Santa Barbara lies along the South Coast of California, bordered by the Santa Ynez Mountain Range. It has many diverse neighborhoods; The Riviera, a Mediterranean-influenced area between Mission and Sycamore canyons, and Hope Ranch, a wealthy area along the coast, are two of the most well known. Santa Barbara has a large number of historic attractions from its founding as a Spanish Mission.
The city of Solvang is located within the Santa Ynez Valley. Solvang is a small community with about five thousand residents. The city is known for being heavily influenced by Danish culture. In the city centre, you can see a scale replica of the Copenhagen Rundetarn, as well as the Mission Santa Ines, one of the California Missions.
The quiet community of Goleta is located along the coast in Santa Barbara, and is a city with a long Maritime history. Many historical attractions abound, including the South Coast Railroad Museum. Today the city is characterized by the prominence of the technology industry in the area, and is referred to as "Silicon Beach".
Lompoc is another city in Santa Barbara County. It is a residential and agricultural community, mainly producing flowers and wine.
The city of Ventura is located along the coast in Ventura County. It was founded as Mission San Buenaventura in 1782, in the area that is now Downtown Ventura. Surfer's Point makes Ventura known for some of the best surfing along the California Coast. The Ventura Harbor Village is a popular area for fishing and also has waterfront restaurants and shopping. The Majestic Ventura Theatre, Ventura County Fair, and Seaside Park are famous concert venues.
The city of Oxnard, in Ventura County, has over 20 miles of beaches along its coastline. This city is famous for its strawberry growing and every year hosts the California Strawberry Festival at Oxnard College. Also tour the Carnegie Art Museum, founded in 1907, Heritage Square, and Henry T. Oxnard Historic District.
The city of Thousand Oaks is located in Ventura County and comprises the Conejo Valley regional area. It is also part of the Tech Coast area, known for its economy based on biotechnology, electronics, telecommunications, and healthcare. Thousand Oaks is a mostly residential area and is ranked highly among the best and safest cities to live in. Some local attractions are the Conejo Valley Botanical Garden, Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Center, and Channel Islands Natural Park and Marine Sanctuary.
The city of San Diego lies north of the Mexican border and south of Los Angeles in Southern California, on the San Diego Bay. It is located in the San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos metropolitan area, which is much quieter than the Los Angeles metropolitan area to the north, but still offers all the amenities and the experience of a big city. San Diego has about 1.5 million residents, making it the second-largest in California and the eight-largest in the United States overall. Several Military and Navy bases and Coast Guard stations are located along the San Diego coast and contribute greatly to the economy and culture of the city. San Diego is a major tourism spot, especially for families, with attractions like Sea World San Diego, Belmont Amusement Park, Legoland, Balboa Park, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The large public schools University of California, San Diego, and San Diego State University also contribute to the culture of the city.
The city of Escondido is located inland, about thirty miles to the north of San Diego. Escondido has a mild climate, usually within the range of 60 to 80 degrees throughout the year. Be sure to tour the Deer Park Winery, the Mingei International Museum, and the California Center for the Arts.
Santee is a smaller city in central San Diego County. Its two parks, Santee Lakes and Mission Trails Regional Park, allow space for camping, rock climbing, and other outdoor recreational activities.
Visit the exciting Cajon Speedway or the East County Arts Center, located in El Cajon.
The city of Encinitas lies along six miles of the Pacific coastline in Northern San Diego County. It has a breathtaking landscape of flat beaches, cliffs, flat-topped coastal areas, steep mesa bluffs, and rolling hills.
National City is famous for its number of historic sites: Heritage Square, Granger Music Hall, and the Santa Fe Rail Depot have all been a part of the area since the mid-1800s.
The city of San Marcos is located in northern San Diego. It is a quiet community with golf courses, recreational areas along Lake Marcos, and famous restaurants on Old California Restaurant Row.
Carlsbad is one of many seaside resort towns in the San Diego area. South Carlsbad State Beach features swimming, surfing, fishing, and recreational areas.
Oceanside, Carlsbad, and Vista form the Tri-City area in San Diego. Along with beaches, attractions include the Oceanside Pier, the Oceanside Sea Center, and the Heritage Living History Park. Also visit the historic Mission San Luis Rey de Francia where the city was founded in 1798.
The second-largest city in the San Diego area is Chula Vista, a mostly residential city located on the San Diego Bay.
In the nearby island town of Coronado, you can visit the Navy Seals training ground at the Naval Base. Del Mar also offers beautiful, quiet beaches and parks.
La Jolla is a wonderful vacation destination along the coast. Visit the Torrey Pines Golf Course where the US Open and PGA Tour take place. La Jolla Cove has a swimming channel and underwater park, and surfing is popular along Windansea Beach. Enjoy picturesque views of the San Diego area from the top of the Mount Soledad Memorial Park.
The city of La Mesa is located just 25 miles north of the border of Mexico. Recreational attractions here include Lake Murray, a popular area for hiking, boating, and fishing, and Mission Trails Regional Park, one of the largest parks in the country which contains over five thousand acres of natural and developed recreational space.
The Inland Empire refers to the area in southeastern California made up of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The Inland Empire has a population of four million that is spread over a large area. Although much less populated than the Coastal region to the west, the Inland area is rapidly growing in residential, industrial, and commercial development. The Inland area contains several mountain ranges, valleys, and forested areas. The climate is dry and hot because the area is mostly covered by the Mojave Desert.
The city of San Bernardino is part of the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario metropolitan area. Although it is a large city, with a population of over two hundred thousand, San Bernardino is quiet and residential. It is often referred to as a bedroom community, with many of its residents going to the nearby larger cities of Southern California for work.
Fontana, just fifty minutes west of Los Angeles in San Bernardino County, hosts two NASCAR races every year at the California Speedway. Big Bear Lake is a resort destination along the shore of Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino area. The natural beauty and small-town atmosphere attract many visitors for skiing, boating, hiking, and biking.
Victorville lies within Victor Valley in the San Bernardino Area. It is located along the southern edge of the Mojave Desert.
The small town of Barstow offers a surprising number of exciting attractions. You can take a trip to the breathtaking Rainbow Basin, visit Mojave Natural Preserve, which offers beautiful surrounding as well as camping facilities, or the Calico Early Man Archeological Site, one of the most acclaimed sites in North America.
The city of Ontario was founded in 1881 by two Canadian Pioneers. Here you can visit the Scandia Amusement Park and GameWorks, designed by Steven Spielberg.
The city of Riverside is named for the bordering Santa Ana River. It is known for being the first place to cultivate the famous California naval orange. Some attractions in this city are the Mission Inn, the California Citrus State Historic Park, and the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. Box Springs Mountain, Lake Mathews, and Mount Rubidoux are noticeable Riverside landmarks.
The nearby city of Indian Wells is surrounded by the beautiful Santa Rosa Mountains and offers a wealth of exciting places to see. Be sure to visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, where you will see many animals and plants of the region, the Joshua Tree National Park, and the Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert.
The city of Temecula, in Riverside County, is conveniently located equidistant from San Diego and Los Angeles. This city is heavily influenced by Native American, Mexican, and Spanish Mission culture. The Pechanga Indian Reservation contains the Pechanga Resort and Casino, which draws tourists from all over the country. The Old Town Temecula historic district has shopping, restaurants, and antiques stores, as well as the Temecula Museum. Temecula Valley is also an American Viticulture Area with award-winning wineries which offer weekend tours and annual festivals.
The city of Blythe has a population of twenty thousand and enjoys three hundred sunny days each year with a mild climate. It is a popular tourist location due to its location between the metropolitan areas of Los Angeles and Phoenix, Arizona. Visit Palo Verde Historical Museum and Society to see how this city has evolved from the time it was incorporated in 1916 to the vibrant town it has become today.
The city of Corona lies just north of the Cleveland National Forest in Riverside. Starting as a small farming town, Corona is now a prosperous city of almost 150,000 residents.
El Centro is the largest city in the Imperial Valley area. Its attractions include the Imperial Valley Dunes, a wildlife area, the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and the Salton Sea, the largest lake in California.
Indio is known as "The City of Festivals" and offers exciting events all year round. Some of the more famous festivals here are the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and the National Date Festival, celebrating the harvest time for date fruits.
Cathedral City is a historic-themed area in Coachella Valley with a strong Mexican influence.
Palm Desert in Riverside County is also located in the Coachella Valley. Nearby Palm Springs is a popular resort destination during the summer months. El Paseo Drive and Gardens is a popular shopping and dining area. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens features desert landscapes, plants, and native animals.
You will be surprised when your vacation in California comes to an end - there is so much to do, you may not have had time to experience everything. Come back soon with a new list of things to do and places to see. California will always have plenty to hold your interest, any time you visit.
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