Top 21 Must-Do Activities in California

Maybe you’ve been to California before or live here. Perhaps you’re a contrarian vacationer who’d rather see things others miss. Or maybe you’re simply searching for a particular place to experience or activity to enjoy in California. Regardless of your motivation, the Golden State is brimming with attractions and activities. We’ve compiled a list of the top 20 things to do, spanning from the picturesque Napa Valley vineyards to the glitzy lights of Hollywood. Let’s explore!

Drive Down One of the World’s Most Crooked Streets

Lombard Street, located in San Francisco, which runs from the Embarcadero to Telegraph Hill, is renowned for its one-block stretch of road in the Russian Hill neighborhood, between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. This curvy path features eight hairpin turns, expertly designed to lower the hill’s steep natural grade of 27 percent, making it navigable for most vehicles. Although the block only spans 600 feet, descending can be a time-consuming process due to the slow tempo. Consequently, visitors may experience a wait, as the hill accommodates around 250 cars per hour.

Ride on a Historic San Francisco Cable Car

A hallmark of tourism in San Francisco, the cable car system stands as the oldest and last manually operated cable car system still in operation. Established in 1873, only three of the original 18 routes remain functional today. With two routes connecting downtown near Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf, and a third route along California Street, this iconic transport attracts millions. Although some locals still use it as a means of transportation, the majority of the seven million passengers each year are tourists looking to capture a slice of history.

Get a Bird’s-Eye of San Francisco from Coit Tower

Perched atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower rises to 210 feet, providing some of the most iconic vistas of San Francisco. From its summit, visitors can gaze out at the San Francisco Bay and even Alcatraz Island. Designed in the Art Deco style and completed in 1933, the tower was funded by Lillie Hitchcock Coit to enhance the beauty of the city. The tower’s interior features 27 fresco murals, largely painted by local students from the California School of Fine Arts. Admission into the tower costs $6 for adults, but it’s reduced to $4 for locals.

Explore the Architecture and Food of San Francisco’s Chinatown

As the oldest Chinatown in North America, San Francisco’s Chinatown holds one of the largest Chinese populations outside of Asia. This vibrant community is among the most densely populated in the city while also attracting an enormous influx of tourists, surpassing even the Golden Gate Bridge in visitor numbers. If you find yourself among the many tourists, explore the numerous food ventures in the area—consider joining a fantastic walking tour to delve deeper into the rich history and culture. Don’t forget to wander through the many alleys, brimming with stunning architectural details.

Cycle Across the Golden Gate Bridge

This historic bridge connects San Francisco to northern California, offering not only breathtaking views of the city but also access to the expansive parklands located on either side. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area encompasses scenic hiking trails and water sports along the coast, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Eat, Eat, Eat at the Ferry Building Marketplace

Nestled along the bustling Embarcadero on Market Street, the Ferry Building serves as a gastronomic paradise for food lovers in San Francisco. Whether you’re grabbing a quick local bite from eateries like Blue Bottle Coffee or Cowgirl Creamery, or shopping at the full farmers market for fresh produce, there’s something for everyone. In the evening, indulge in an upscale dining experience at the Michelin-recommended restaurant The Slanted Door.

Drive on Highway 1 in Big Sur

This picturesque stretch of Highway 1 runs alongside the stunning Pacific coastline, located between Carmel and San Simeon. Big Sur is famed for its dramatic, breathtaking views and the iconic bridges of Bixby Creek and Rocky Creek, making it a must-see driving experience.

Relax in Palm Springs

Once celebrated as the “Playground of the Stars,” Palm Springs beautifully retains the charm of that era. Situated within the Sonoran Desert in southern California, it’s renowned for its hot springs, luxurious hotels, and revitalizing spas. Notably, it boasts stunning examples of mid-century architecture. Additionally, the nearby Coachella Valley is ideal for mountain biking and hiking adventures.

Explore Napa Valley

Famed for its prestigious wine production, Napa Valley boasts an impressive international reputation, primarily recognized for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. However, the area offers much more than fine wines. While securing a reservation at The French Laundry may be difficult, visitors can indulge in numerous fine dining establishments, including the Michelin-starred Restaurant at Meadowood. Casual dining options abound as well, featuring selections like Gran Electrica and The Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar, both offering incredible valley views.

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey, home to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, is a charming seaside town where visitors can enjoy a peaceful weekend or simply pass through as they travel between Los Angeles and San Francisco. After savoring delectable seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets adorned with classic homes. Moreover, music enthusiasts should not miss the Monterey Festival Grounds, known for hosting the legendary Monterey Pop Festival, where icons such as Jimi Hendrix and The Who performed.

Do Some Time at Alcatraz

Once a former penitentiary, Alcatraz Island has since transformed into a tourist hotspot, attracting thousands each year. Designated a landmark in 1976, the island offers guided cruises that include the award-winning audio tour, “Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Tour.” For a different ambiance, consider visiting at night, where a more eerie atmosphere prevails.

Take in Nature at Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, renowned for its majestic glacier-carved valley, is enveloped by granite monoliths, breathtaking cliffs, and stunning waterfalls. Nestled within the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this iconic park is best known for its rich photographic heritage, particularly through the lens of famed photographer Ansel Adams. Regardless of whether it’s your inaugural visit or your twentieth, Yosemite remains one of America’s most stunning national treasures.

Drive Along Carmel’s 17-Mile Drive

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not only one of California’s most picturesque small towns but also serves as a starting point for the 17-Mile Drive—a scenic journey that navigates through luxurious residences and vibrant golf courses. Along the route, enjoy attractions such as the iconic Lone Cypress and Bird Rock.

Feel Small at the Redwood National and State Parks

The Redwood National and State Parks, encompassing Del Norte Coast, Jedediah Smith, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, collectively make up an area of nearly 140,000 acres. This protected landscape houses 45 percent of California’s remaining Redwood trees, some of which can reach impressive heights of 400 feet, living for up to 1,800 years.

Visit the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is recognized as one of the leading zoos worldwide, housing over 3,700 animals from nearly 700 species. Furthermore, its conservation initiatives are globally acknowledged for excellence, providing habitats that closely align with the animals’ natural settings. The zoo proudly hosts wild pandas and is one of only four zoos in the U.S. to do so. Don’t forget to explore the adjacent San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a remarkable experience in its own right.

Stroll Along the Walk of Fame

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon wandering along Hollywood Boulevard, searching for your favorite celebrity’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. At Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, located at Hollywood and Highland, you’ll find many stars from Hollywood’s Golden Age immortalized in the pavement out front, creating a magical atmosphere for all visitors.

Take a Day Trip to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, known for its iconic white stucco architecture and red-tiled roofs, stands as one of California’s oldest and most charming towns. Once a Hollywood hotspot, it served as the backdrop for more than 1,200 films in the early 1900s, attracting stars such as Mary Pickford and Charlie Chaplin. Since then, it has continued to blossom as a destination for shopping, dining, and leisurely strolls through its breathtaking streets, positioned just two hours north of Los Angeles.

Go to Disneyland

Disneyland, the original Disney resort, opened in Anaheim in 1955. Over the years, it has undergone numerous expansions and updates, remaining one of the planet’s most frequented theme parks, second only to its sibling, Magic Kingdom. Interestingly, Disneyland’s smaller layout compared to Disneyworld in Florida makes it easier to navigate during your visit.

Tour a Real Hollywood Movie Studio

Hollywood’s major studios—including Warner Bros, Paramount, and Universal—offer guided tours that delve into their iconic movies and television shows. The Universal Studios backlot tour is particularly famous, featuring a tram ride that spans 13 city blocks, allowing you to get up close to many memorable film moments, including beloved classics like Jaws and King Kong.

Spend a Beach Day at Surf City USA

Surf City USA, known as Huntington Beach, hosts the annual US Open of Surfing and houses the International Surfing Museum. If you’re not keen on catching waves, you can always relax on the stunning Huntington Beach Pier, an excellent spot to enjoy the sunset.

Relax By the Lake at Lake Tahoe

Experience the outdoor lifestyle at Lake Tahoe by setting up a campsite right next to the lake. This idyllic environment allows for kayaking, swimming, hiking, and jet skiing. For those preferring not to camp in a tent, various campsites with RV hookups are available. Furthermore, the area offers numerous upscale hotels for those looking for a more refined stay, complete with vibrant nightlife options.