ADVERTISEMENT

California

Disneyland, national parks, redwood forests, ski resorts, and beaches—California has it all.  Find the best places to visit and things to do in California, from Northern California to the Southern California coast. Your California vacation starts here.

Big Sur river flowing out into the Pacific Ocean at Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur, California.

Highway 1 is open and the area’s beauty is back within reach.

emerald bay state park in winter

Winter in Tahoe doesn’t require skis or snowboards.

Turquoise water beneath Havasu Falls in Arizona surrounded by red rock and greenery.

Where to marvel at cascades, from rewarding hikes to natural wonders just off the interstate.

People enjoying the sunny day at Sunset Dunes park near Judah St. in the Outer Sunset District of San Francisco.

It’s not on most tourist maps. But this neighborhood is a great place to experience the real San Francisco.

Tony’s Crab Shack on the Oregon Coast

The coast is dotted with roadside seafood shacks that lure travelers with fresh, unfussy seafood.

a stunning red and orange sunset over the grand canyon

These spots offer hiking, wildlife-watching, and thrilling lore for cinephiles.

a gravestone with flowers and bracelets and a historic plaque honoring Mary Ellen Pleasant, 'California's Mother of Civil Rights'

The fascinating businesswoman and activist left her mark in the Bay Area and beyond.

fried spring rolls on a plate with dipping sauce

Look beyond the famous cities and wine regions to try these delicacies hiding in plain sight.

Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy dance in “Mickey’s Happy Holidays” during Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California.

Get into the spirit with dazzling parades, towering gingerbread, and more.

a person walks through a brightly lit ice cave

This year, plan a festive and fabulous winter escape—no cooking, cleaning, or hosting required.

Alcatraz prison cells in San Francisco, California

Fixing for a good scare? Head to these California haunts.

Outside the Holbrooke Hotel in Grass Valley, California.

Head up the ‘Golden Chain,’ Highway 49, in search of haunted history.

Hiker dressed warmly and standing on the honeycombed rocks known as tafoni looks out to sea at sunset at Salt Point State Park on the Sonoma Coast in California

Come fall, the fog and the crowds dissipate, and the road is wide open.

a van is parked near a telescope with a brilliant starry sky and mountains in the distance

Beat the heat and the tourist throngs with these awe-inspiring after-dark adventures.

a woman with black hair and glasses smiles as she looks through records in a record store

The Capital of Silicon Valley is teeming with treasures, from vintage vinyl to fantastic falafel.

ADVERTISEMENT