Pack your bags, we’re going to California!

Who doesn’t love a California vacation? It’s one of the most visited states in America. Not only is the weather amazing, but it’s also beautiful. From the beautiful vineyards, scenic views, and diverse food options California is the perfect place for your summer vacation. There is so much to see and if you have limited time I know it can be hard to choose. This is where I come in…..

I am going to tell you about the 10 phenomenal cities that are a must-visit during your summer visit to California.

Without any further ado, these are the

Top 10 cities to visit in CA This Summer:

1. Los Angeles

Universal Studios Theme Park is the first place you should visit when you arrive in Los Angeles. It is famous for its rides and special attractions, that make you feel like you stepped into a Hollywood blockbuster. I can guarantee that some of your favorite shows and movies have been filmed here. From Jaws to the classic horror film Psycho, this place is draped in Hollywood history. Make sure you don’t miss out on the Harry Potter and Jurassic Park rides. They are my favorites. After a long day of fun, make sure you grab something to eat over at CityWalk.
Disneyland Resort is a perfect family vacation destination in LA where every member can have a fun time because of themed rides and other adventurous activities. I mean who doesn’t love the mouse? Fly with Dumbo and take a picture with Cinderella. This magical place has a way of putting a smile on everyone’s face.
You should also go to Griffith Park, which is the largest City Park in CA. This park has a zoo, an observatory, a planetarium, golf courses, tennis courses, hiking trails, and a theater. It means there is no shortage of fun there.

Where to Stay

Affordable – Holiday Inn Pasadena – Amenities: Full Breakfast Included, Complimentary Coffee in Lobby, Kids Eat Free

Luxury – Kimpton La Peer Hotel – Amenities: Secluded outdoor pool and courtyard bar, Hosted evening social hour, 4-5pm daily , Complimentary coffee and tea service, In-Suite Dinning, etc

2. San Diego

If you love animals, then San Diego Zoo is a perfect destination for you. The main rival to LA’s zoo and if I had to say is a better experience. This zoo has animals of more than 800 species that will make everyone (including the kids) excited.
When you are done with the Zoo, go visit Coronado Island. It is full of interesting activities. You can either rent a bike or just walk in the area and feel the energy of the bay.
Want a little European touch to your visit? Then go northwest of downtown to a place called Little Italy. You can shop, meet interesting people, and try one of the best pizzas in town over at Landini’s.
SeaWorld San Diego is a marine life park where you can see dolphins, whales, penguins, bears, and many other sea animals. Visit it if you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The next place you can visit is La Jolla Shores, or as the locals call it- The Jewel of San Diego. There, you can participate in water-related activities like swimming, surfing, scuba diving, and whatnot.

Where to Stay

Affordable: Residence Inn by Marriott – San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter – Amenities: Restaurant, Fitness center, Valet parking, Room service, 24-hour business center

Luxury: Fairmont Grand Del Mar – Amenities: 6 restaurants and pool bar, Full-service spa, 4 outdoor pools and 4 spa tubs, Nightclub, Golf Course, etc.

3. San Francisco

When you visit San Francisco, you have to visit Golden Gate Park. It is the third biggest park in the country and perhaps the most fun one. This park has everything- Gardens, flowers, lakes, museums, art, wildlife, and even a windmill. Furthermore, you can play sports there and join different clubs.
Fisherman Wharf is another tourist attraction in San Francisco. It is home to beautiful hotels, dining, and different entertainment opportunities. Plus, you can get to see a mesmerizing view of the Bay Bridge from the Wharf.
Another tourist spot in San Francisco is Alcatraz Island. It is spread over 22 acres and was once used to keep the prisoners. Now, it is a popular attraction for both adults and kids. People come to see history, culture, and nature here.
Castro District is another attraction that visitors have to see. Often called a gayborhood, this site is home to bars, theaters, markets, and the Dolores Park.
Lombard Street is the second most crooked street in the country, but it is the most famous one. Driving on the street is super fun, and you can get to see beautiful Victorian homes.
Haight-Ashbury is another San Francisco district you should visit. There you can take walk tours, go hiking, and admire the beautifully built Victorian homes.

Where to Stay

Affordable: Hyatt Centric Fisherman’s Wharf San Francisco – Amenities: Restaurant, Fitness center, Valet parking, Room service, 24-hour business center

Luxury: Four Season Hotel – San Fransisco – Amenities: Restaurant and bar/lounge, Full-service spa, Breakfast available, Sauna, Steam room, etc.

4. Santa Barbara

Mission Santa Barbara is also called Queen of Missions and is built in Spanish style. It has a museum, a church, and a beautiful garden. So, if you are looking for a picnic spot in Santa Barbara, visit the ever remarkable Mission, Santa Barbara.
Another place you can visit is Stearns Wharf, which is full of breathtaking beaches and harbors. At the back, there are mountains, which increase the beauty of the place.
Santa Barbara Zoo is considered a perfect family vacation spot here. It is open, clean, and full of green and beautiful animals.
If you want some thrill, then you should go to the Climb Tower and then climb it. At the top, you can see the whole city and even the ocean.

Where to Stay

Affordable: Motel 6 Santa Barbara – Amenities: Near the beach, Terrace, 24-hour front desk, Snack bar/deli, etc.

Luxury: Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property – Amenities: Daily housekeeping, Near the beach, 24-hour front desk, Coffee/tea in a common area, etc

5. Monterey

Visiting Fisherman’s Wharf should be your priority when you visit Monterey. There, you can do dining, shopping, whale watching, and participate in ocean activities like swimming and surfing.
If you love the ocean and its animals, then The Monterey Bay Aquarium is the right place for you.
When you are done seeing aquatic life, it’s time for some driving. Try 17-Mile Drive on the scenic road where you can see pacific and pebble beach.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a town in Monetary that is rich in both history and modernization. Visit beaches, do the wine tasting, and enjoy the art galleries there.
Point Lobos State Reserve is one of the best places in Monterey. If you want to feel close to nature, then visit it and enjoy marine wildlife, rocky cliffs, and kelp forests.

Where to Stay

Affordable: Days Inn by Wyndham Monterey Downtown – Amenities: Daily housekeeping, Near the beach, Business center, 24-hour front desk, etc.

Luxury: Carmel Valley Ranch, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – Amenities: Golf course, Restaurant and bar/lounge, Full-service spa, 3 outdoor pools and 2 spa tubs, Breakfast available, 8 outdoor tennis courts

6. Napa

Those who visit Napa must go to the Napa Valley Wine Train. You get to enjoy the train ride with delicious cuisines there.
Napa Valley Paddle is another tourist attraction where you do paddle boarding tours.
Balloons Above The Valley is another exciting thing you can do in Napa Valley. You can take a tour with a hot air balloon above. How cool is that?

For fun and a family picnic spot, you can visit Playground Fantastico.

Where to Stay

Affordable: SpringHill Suites Napa Valley – Amenities: Fitness center, 24-hour business center, Limo/town car service, etc.

Luxury: Carneros Resort and Spa – Amenities: Winery, 3 restaurants and 3 bars/lounges, Full-service spa, 2 outdoor pools, Breakfast available, etc.

7. Yosemite

One of the most famous Yosemite sights is Half Dome. You can see glaciers, rocks, and beautiful valleys.
Yosemite Falls is the perfect spot if you want to see a breathtaking view.
If you love climbing, then pay a visit to El Capitan. This place is 1000 feet higher than Half Dome and equally mesmerizing.

Where to Stay

Affordable: Quality Inn Yosemite Valley Gateway– Amenities: Seasonal outdoor pool, Spa tub , 24-hour business center, 24-hour front desk, etc

Luxury: Sierra Sky Ranch, Ascend Hotel Collection – Amenities: Daily housekeeping, Seasonal outdoor pool, Terrace , 24-hour front desk, etc

8. Palm Springs

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is your ideal site if you want some thrill in life.
The Air Museum is another site to visit. There, you can see Military aircraft, ammunition from the world wars, and stories from the veterans themselves.
If you love hiking, then visit The Canyons. There, you will see a lot of palm trees and mind-calming greenery.

Where to Stay

Affordable: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Golf Resort Palm Springs – Amenities: Daily housekeeping, Golf course, 2 restaurants and bar/lounge, Full-service spa, Outdoor pool, etc.

Luxury:The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage – Amenities: 2 restaurants and 2 poolside bars, Full-service spa, 2 outdoor pools, 24-hour fitness center, etc.

9. Sacramento

The Railroad Museum in Sacramento is the world’s largest railway museum. It will take you two centuries back in history, and you will see how things evolve.
If you want to see some more history, visit Old Sacramento. It is spread over eight blocks, and thousands of visitors visit it each year to see the historical buildings.
Another place you should visit in Sacramento is the State Capitol. It is an architectural landmark and one of the popular tourist attractions in the city at the moment.

Where to Stay

Affordable:Homewood Suites By Hilton Sacramento Airport – Natomas – Amenities: Daily housekeeping, Outdoor pool, Free airport shuttle, 24-hour fitness center, 24-hour business center

Luxury: Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, an IHG Hotel – Amenities: Restaurant and bar/lounge, Outdoor pool, WiFi in the lobby, 24-hour fitness center, Free use of bicycles

10. Redwoods National Park

You should first visit Stout Grove to get an idea of what nature feels like.
Another remarkable tourist destination in Redwood is Fern Canyon. It is the place where the movie Jurassic Park was made.
You must also see Gold’s Bluff Beach on the pacific. The golden-colored hues and surroundings will make your visit unforgettable.
When the sun is about to drown, you should visit Creek OverLook. It is perhaps the perfect spot in the whole world to see a sunset.

Where to Stay

Affordable: Holiday Inn Express Klamath – Redwood Ntl Pk Area, an IHG Hotel – Amenities: Business center, 24-hour front desk, Air conditioning, Lobby fireplace

Luxury: Not Applicable to this area

So, if you are planning a vacation, these are the top 10 cities to visit in CA this summer.

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