Best Places to Visit in California
Sometimes you just want to get out and explore. We try to strike a good balance of places that you will really enjoy. Finding ideas for family friendly outings, or interesting places to go in California with your friends, both are at your fingertips here with America Top 10. We aim to give you plenty of ideas without you having to do all the research. That way you can easily decide if you want to explore California sites or check out the sites in another state.
You have also heard how it is becoming a lot more popular to have staycations (where you stay home instead of going to far off places) and discover new and interesting places in the near vicinity. We try to make that easier for you. Check out the sites in California that have become local favorites easily with our site.
We hope that we have provided you plenty of choices in California whether this is a new area for you or your own back yard. Something a little different from the typical amusement park. If you really loved somewhere but don’t see them on our list let us know, we are always looking to improve our lists and we can only do that with your help.
Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park
Sacramento, CA
The Leland Stanford Mansion is a stunning example of the splendor and elegance of the Victorian era in California. After a 14-year, $22 million restoration and rehabilitation, the Mansion is now open to the public as a museum. It also serves the citizens of California as the state’s official reception center for leaders from around the world.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal City, CA
Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place: Universal Studios Hollywood. With 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.
Belmont Park
San Diego, CA
Belmont Park is located on the surf and sand in Mission Beach and is currently offering free parking and free park admission. Belmont Park features a variety of amusement park rides, laser tag areas, and arcades with midway style games.
SeaWorld San Diego
San Diego, CA
Balboa Park
San Diego, CA
Balboa Park is known as the country’s largest urban cultural park with 15 major museums, performing arts venues, and beautiful gardens. Balboa Park also allows visitors to see and experience museum exhibitions, plays, musicals, and even concerts.
Exploratorium
San Francisco, CA
The Exploratorium is known as a 21st century learning laboratory that features tools, exhibits, and programs that stimulate curiosity and thinking. The Exploratorium was founded in 1969 by Dr. Frank Oppenheimer and is currently recognized as a museum of science, art, and human perception as well.
The Hollywood Bowl Museum
Los Angeles, CA
The Hollywood Bowl Museum is a new exhibition that is known to be showcasing a lot of Latin culture. The museum currently features an exhibit that includes bilingual text, stunning graphics and photographs, interactive computer kiosks, as well as a dance floor.
Hearst Castle
San Simeon, CA
Hearst Castle is a Mediterranean-style historic house museums that features guest houses, gardens, pools and terraces. Hearst Castle also features a 5,000 square foot gift and museum shop, museum exhibits, and the Hearst Castle Theater.
Pier 39
San Francisco, CA
Pier 39 has 110 specialty shops and 14 full-service restaurants. In addition, the Pier 39 experience involves two levels of dining, entertainment, shopping, and other attractions which are all surrounded by beautiful views of the city and the bay.
USS Midway Museum
San Diego, CA
Imagine experiencing life at sea aboard one of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers. Visitors to the USS Midway Museum enter a floating city at sea and walk in the footsteps of 225,000 Midway sailors who served their country and upheld the American ideals of strength, freedom and peace. The USS Midway Museum is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family. Guests can spend the day exploring more than 60 exhibits with a collection of 29 restored aircraft.
