There are many fun places to go in California. The state is full of interesting things to see and do, from the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles to the vibrant streets of San Francisco, and to the beautiful beaches of San Diego.
Whether you’re looking for a place to have some family fun or a romantic getaway, you’ll find plenty of options in California.
One of the most popular destinations in California is Disneyland.
The classic theme park is perfect for families with young children, as there are rides and attractions for all ages.
Visitors can also enjoy take a stroll down Main Street USA, watch a parade, or see a show at one of the theaters.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, consider spending a day at one of California’s many state parks.
There are parks all across the state, each with its own unique features. hiking, biking, and picnicking are just a few of the activities you can enjoy at these beautiful locations.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find plenty of fun places to go in California. Here’s a list of the top places to visit if you plan on visiting California.
1. Disneyland – Anaheim, CA
Disneyland in Anaheim, California is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Every year, millions of people visit Disneyland to experience the magic of the park.
There are a lot of things to do at Disneyland. You can go on rides, meet your favorite characters, watch shows, and more. There are also a ton of great places to eat at Disneyland.
Some of the most popular rides at Disneyland include Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Indiana Jones Adventure. If you’re looking for something a bit more mellow, you can also go on rides like It’s a Small World or the Haunted Mansion.
If you’re looking for a fun place to go in California, Disneyland is definitely worth a visit.
2. Universal Studios Hollywood – Los Angeles, CA
Universal Studios Hollywood is a world-renowned movie studio and theme park that has been entertaining visitors from all over the world for decades.
Located in Los Angeles, California, Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state.
The theme park features several different rides and attractions based on Universal’s most popular movies and TV shows, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, The Simpsons Ride, and more.
There are also a number of live shows and events that take place throughout the year.
Whether you’re a diehard movie fan or just looking for a fun day out.
3. Six Flags Magic Mountain – Valencia, CA
If you’re looking for a fun place to go in California, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a great option.
This theme park is located in Valencia, CA, and features a variety of rides and attractions for everyone to enjoy.
There are thrilling roller coasters for the adrenaline junkies, family-friendly rides for the little ones, and plenty of other fun things to do.
Plus, there’s always something new and exciting happening at Six Flags Magic Mountain, so you’ll never get bored.
So if you’re looking for a fun place to go in California, be sure to check out Six Flags Magic Mountain.
4. Knott’s Berry Farm – Buena Park, CA
Knott’s Berry Farm is a world-renowned theme park located in Buena Park, California.
The park features over 150 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, shows, and more.
Knott’s Berry Farm is also home to the world-famous Ghost Town, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Whether you’re looking for thrill rides or family fun, Knott’s Berry Farm has something for everyone. So come on down and experience the fun for yourself.
5. SeaWorld San Diego – San Diego, CA
SeaWorld San Diego is a world-renowned marine life theme park and one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.
With over 100 different rides, attractions, and shows, SeaWorld has something for everyone.
One of the most popular attractions at SeaWorld is the Shamu Adventure show, where visitors can see the majestic killer whales up close and learn about their amazing abilities.
Other popular attractions include the Dolphin Discovery Pool, where visitors can swim with bottlenose dolphins, and the Penguin Encounter, where they can see penguins up close and learn about their habitat.
SeaWorld also has a number of unique dining experiences, including Dine with Shamu, where visitors can have a meal while watching the killer whales perform, and the Explorer’s Café, where they can try international cuisine.
6. San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Set your sights on Southern California for an unforgettable vacation filled with sunny days, sandy beaches, and endless entertainment. From world-renowned theme parks to one of the best zoos in the country, there is no shortage of places to explore in California.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a must-see for animal lovers of all ages. Take a safari through the African plains, where you can see lions, giraffes, and rhinos in their natural habitat. Then, head over to the Asian Highlands to see tigers, bears, and leopards. And don’t forget to stop by the Children’s Zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with some of their favorite animals.
7. Griffith Observatory
If you’re looking for a fun place to go in California, look no further than Griffith Observatory.
The Observatory is also home to a number of scientific instruments and exhibits, making it a popular destination for those interested in astronomy and space science.
This iconic Los Angeles landmark is home to a planetarium, telescope facilities, and interactive exhibits about space and science.
Plus, it offers breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.
8. Hollywood – LA
If you’re looking for a little bit of everything, Hollywood is the place to be.
There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re interested in celebrity sightings, great food, or just want to explore a little bit of history.
One of Hollywood’s most popular tourist attractions is the Walk of Fame.
This is where you can find the stars of your favorite celebrities embedded on the sidewalk.
Take a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard and see if you can find your favorite star.
If you’re interested in learning about the history of Hollywood, there are plenty of great places to visit.
The Hollywood Museum is a great place to start. This museum is filled with artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Hollywood’s past.
Hollywood has plenty of options if you’re looking for a great place to eat.
From upscale restaurants to casual cafes, you’ll be able to find something to suit your taste. And if you’re in the mood for some shopping, there are plenty of stores to explore.
Whether you’re looking for a fun place to visit or just want to learn more about Hollywood’s history, there’s plenty to see and do in this iconic city.
9. Napa Valley
Napa Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.
And it’s no wonder why – Napa Valley is home to some of the best wineries in the world.
If you’re a fan of wine, then Napa Valley is definitely the place for you.
There are over 400 wineries in Napa Valley, so you’ll definitely be able to find one that suits your taste.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key than Napa Valley, then Sonoma Valley might be more your speed.
Sonoma Valley is home to over 50 wineries, so you’ll still be able to enjoy some of the best wine that California has to offer.
But Sonoma Valley is also home to some of the best restaurants in the state. So if you’re looking for a place to enjoy some good food and wine, then Sonoma Valley is the place for you.
10. Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate strait, the one-mile-wide (1.6 km), one-point-seven-mile-long (2.7 km) channel between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
The structure links the U.S. city of San Francisco, California—the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula—to Marin County, carrying both U.S. Route 101 and California State Route 1 across the strait.
The bridge is one of the most internationally recognized symbols of San Francisco, California, and the United States.
It has been declared one of the Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
When completed in 1937, it was both the longest and the tallest suspension bridge in the world, with a main span of 4,200 feet (1,280 m) and a total height of 746 feet (227 m).
The span was originally misreported by the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway District as 4,480 feet (1,360 m), an error caused by a misunderstanding in converting English units to metric.
It was the world’s longest suspension bridge until the opening of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957.
The Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge span in the world when it was completed during the Great Depression.
At the time, it was also the tallest structure in San Francisco and the second-tallest in California. It has been declared one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
There are many things to do near the Golden Gate Bridge. One popular activity is to walk or bike across it.
Another is to take a ferry ride under the bridge. There are also plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and photography.
Of course, no visit to the Golden Gate Bridge would be complete without stopping at one of the nearby visitor centers.
The Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center is located on the south side of the bridge. It has exhibits about the history and construction of the bridge, as well as a gift shop.
The round trip across the Golden Gate Bridge is about 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers).
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.
Millions of people visit the bridge each year.
If you’re planning a trip to San Francisco, be sure to add the Golden Gate Bridge to your list of places to see.
11. The Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey, CA
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world-renowned facility located in Monterey, California. Visitors can view a variety of marine life, including sharks, penguins, and sea otters.
The aquarium also has an interactive exhibit where kids can touch stingrays.
The Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Los Angeles, California.
The concert hall is the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and is known for its unique architecture.
Visitors can take tours of the facility or attend one of the many concerts and events held here throughout the year.
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States.
The bridge spans the Golden Gate Strait and connects the city of San Francisco to Marin County. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge, or take a scenic drive.
There are also numerous lookout points where visitors can get a stunning view of the Bay Area.
12. Alcatraz Island – San Francisco, CA
Alcatraz Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.
The island is home to the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, which operated from 1934 to 1963.
Today, visitors can take tours of the prison, which offer an insight into the lives of the inmates who were incarcerated there.
In addition to the prison, Alcatraz Island is also home to a number of other attractions, including the Alcatraz Lighthouse and the remains of Fort Alcatraz.
Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge from the island.
If you’re looking for a fun place to visit in California, Alcatraz Island is definitely worth a visit.
13. Fisherman’s Wharf – San Francisco
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.
It is a historic area with a lot of character and charm. There are many things to see and do at Fisherman’s Wharf, making it a great place to visit for both locals and tourists alike.
Some of the most popular attractions at Fisherman’s Wharf include the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, Pier 39, and the Aquarium of the Bay.
Fisherman’s Wharf has been a working waterfront since the 1850s when it was the center of the city’s fishing industry. These days, you’re more likely to find tourists then fishermen down at the wharf, but there are still a few places where you can buy fresh seafood.
If you’re looking for something to eat, there are dozens of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from clam chowder to crab-cakes.
There are also several museums and attractions in the area, including the Wax Museum at Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Museum, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. And, of course, no visit to Fisherman’s Wharf would be complete without a ride on a cable car.
Visitors can also enjoy plenty of great food options, shopping, and entertainment.
14. Muir Woods National Monument – Mill Valley, CA
Muir Woods National Monument is a beautiful place to visit in California.
The woods are full of giant redwoods, and the atmosphere is peaceful and serene. There are plenty of trails to explore, and the scenery is simply breathtaking.
Muir Woods National Monument is a United States National Monument managed by the National Park Service. It is located on Mount Tamalpais near the Pacific coast in Marin County, California. On July 1, 1908, the monument was established to preserve the redwood forest’s 554 acres (2.24 km2).Â
The Muir Woods Park Conservancy is a non-profit organization that collaborates with the National Park Service to “protect and enhance Muir Woods National Monument for present and future generations.”
There are a variety of different activities that can be enjoyed at the Muir Woods National Monument.Â
Visitors can take a self-guided audio tour, go on a ranger-led program, participate in Junior Ranger activities, or explore the woods independently.Â
There are also numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels that wind through the redwood forest.
Muir Woods National Monument is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.Â
It is close to San Francisco but feels like a world away. Visitors can enjoy all the beauty and peace of nature without traveling far from home.
15. Orange County
There is no shortage of options when it comes to fun places to go in California.
And while many people think of Los Angeles as the primary destination for fun and excitement in the state, Orange County has its share of great attractions.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Orange County is Disneyland.
The original Disneyland park is located in Anaheim, and it features all of the classic rides and attractions that have made Disneyland a global phenomenon. In addition to the original park, Disneyland also has a second park, California Adventure, which opened in 2001.
California Adventure is geared more towards adults and features rides and attractions based on popular films and TV shows.
Another great option for things to do in Orange County is Knott’s Berry Farm.
Knott’s Berry Farm is a world-renowned theme park that features a variety of rides and attractions. The park is also home to many different shows and events, making it a great place to go for a day of fun.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, Orange County also has many different beaches that you can visit. Some of the most popular beaches in Orange County include Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach.
Each of these beaches has its unique character and offers a different experience depending on what you’re looking for.
No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something to do in Orange County that will keep you entertained.
16. Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is a historic landmark located in Santa Monica, California. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, and for good reason – there is so much to do!
Visitors can enjoy the many shops and restaurants lining the pier, take a ride on the world-famous Ferris wheel, or go for a stroll down the boardwalk.
Santa Monica Pier is also home to many events and festivals throughout the year, so there is always something going on.
Whether you are looking for a fun day out with the family or a romantic night by the ocean, Santa Monica Pier is the perfect place to go.
17. Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a beach town located on the central coast of California. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere and its surfing culture. S
anta Cruz is also home to a number of attractions, including the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the oldest operating amusement park in California.
The town has a number of beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, or surf. You can also take a walk or bike ride along the scenic Coastal Trail.
For something a bit more adventurous, you can go whale watching or take a zip line tour through the forest canopy.
Santa Cruz is also a great place to enjoy some of California’s best food and wine.
The town is home to a number of excellent restaurants, cafes, and wineries. You can also find fresh local produce at the farmers market or one of the many roadside stands.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Santa Cruz has something to offer everyone. So come and explore all that this beautiful town has to offer.
18. Joshua Tree
When most people think of California, they think of the big city life in Los Angeles or San Francisco. However, there is much more to the Golden State than just its bustling metropolises. If you’re looking for a change of pace and want to experience some of California’s natural beauty, Joshua Tree National Park is the perfect place to go.
Joshua Tree is one of the unique national parks in the United States. The park gets its name from the Joshua trees found throughout the area. These strange-looking trees are a type of yucca plant and are native to the Mojave Desert.
Visitors to Joshua Tree can enjoy hiking, camping, rock climbing, and stargazing. The park is also home to various wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and desert tortoises.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in California, add Joshua Tree National Park to your list of places to visit.
19. Various National Parks to Visit
California is home to some of the most beautiful places on earth. From the towering sequoias of Sequoia National Park to the majestic mountains of Yosemite National Park, there is something for everyone in California. Here’s a mini list on which park you can go to.
Sequoia National Park is home to the largest trees on earth. The General Sherman tree, for example, is over 2,000 years old and is the largest living tree on earth by volume. In addition to the giant sequoias, Sequoia National Park also has many other attractions including hiking trails, waterfalls, and beautiful vistas.
Kings Canyon National Park is another must-see in California. This park is home to the General Grant tree, which is the second largest living tree on earth. Kings Canyon also has many hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and stunning views.
Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California. This park is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the state including Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan. In addition to these famous landmarks, Yosemite also has many hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Joshua Tree National Park is named for the Joshua trees that are found throughout the park. This park is known for its unique desert landscape and is a popular destination for rock climbing and hiking. Joshua Tree also has many interesting plants and animals that call the park home.
Redwood National and State Parks are home to the tallest trees on earth. The redwoods in these parks can grow to over 300 feet tall and are some of the oldest living things on earth. In addition to the redwoods, these parks also have many hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views.
20. Venice Beach
Venice Beach is one of California’s most popular beach destinations. It’s a great place to people watch, go for a swim, or just soak up the sun.
Several shops and restaurants line the boardwalk, so you can always find something to do.
If you’re looking for a more active vacation, there are plenty of options at Venice Beach.
You can go for a run or walk along the boardwalk or rent a bike and explore the area.
There are also several parks nearby, so you can always find somewhere to relax.
Venice Beach is a great option whether you’re looking for a relaxing or active vacation.
There’s something for everyone here, so you’re sure to have a great time.
21. Big Sur – California State Route 1
If you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience, look no further than Big Sur.
This stretch of coastline along Highway 1 offers some of the most stunning scenery in all of California.
From rocky cliffs and crashing waves to lush green forests and tranquil river valleys, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And with plenty of hiking trails, camping spots, and viewpoints along the way, you can easily spend a few days exploring all that this region has to offer.
So if you’re looking for an adventure that’s off the beaten path, be sure to add Big Sur to your list of places to visit in California.
22. Lake Tahoe – Nevada/California Border
Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.
It is located on the border of California and Nevada and is a beautiful place to visit all year round.
In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at one of the many resorts in the area.
In the summer, Lake Tahoe is perfect for swimming, hiking, and fishing. There are also many restaurants, bars, and shops to explore in the area.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Lake Tahoe is a great place to visit.
23. Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a desert oasis in Southern California known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and spas.
The city has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, when it was a popular destination for Hollywood celebrities to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.
Today, Palm Springs is still a popular vacation spot for Californians and out-of-towners alike.
There are tons of fun things to do in Palm Springs, regardless of your interests. If you love the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails and golf courses to keep you busy.
Or, if you prefer to relax in style, you can spend your days lounging by one of the many pools or getting pampered at a spa. And, of course, no trip to Palm Springs would be complete without shopping for stylish desert-chic clothing and home decor.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Palm Springs is the perfect place to escape the everyday grind.
24. Visit San Luis Obispo
Paso Robles is a small city located in the San Luis Obispo County of California. The town is situated on the Salinas River, approximately midway between the cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco. Paso Robles is known for its hot springs, wine production, and olive oil production.
There are many things to do in Paso Robles, including visiting one of the many wineries in the area, taking a dip in one of the hot springs, or exploring the Olive Oil Museum. If you’re looking for a place to stay, several hotels and bed & breakfast options are available.
Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Paso Robles is a great place to visit. Here are a few of the best things to do in Paso Robles, California.
Paso Robles is home to over 200 wineries, making it one of the premier wine regions in California. Whether you’re a fan of red wine, white wine, or rosé, there’s sure to be a winery that suits your taste.
Many of the wineries offer tours and tastings, so you can learn about the wine-making process while sampling some of the area’s best wines.
If you’re looking for something a little different, some wineries also offer olive oil tastings. This is a great way to learn about another one of Paso Robles’ products while also enjoying some delicious food.
25. Santa Monica
There’s no place quite like California. There’s always something to do in the Golden State from the sunny beaches to the star-studded streets. Here are just a few of the many fun places to go in California.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in California is Santa Monica.
This beach city is home to some of the state’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The Santa Monica Pier is a must-see, and visitors can also enjoy the beautiful views from Palisades Park.
Venice Beach is another great spot for tourists and locals alike.
This oceanfront community is known for its canals, muscle beach, and lively atmosphere.
There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, and the Venice Boardwalk is a great place to people watch.
Of course, no trip to California would be complete without visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
This world-famous street is lined with stars honoring some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Visitors can also tour movie studios and see where some of their favorite films were made.
26. Sierra Nevada
The Sierra Nevada mountain range is one of California’s most popular tourist destinations. And for a good reason – it offers some of the best scenery and outdoor activities in the state.
The Sierra Nevada mountains are the tallest mountain range in the United States.
They are also some of the oldest mountains globally, dating back over 400 million years.
The Sierra Nevada mountains are home to many different types of trees, including pine trees and sequoias.
The sequoias are the largest type of tree globally and can grow to be over 300 feet tall!
There are so many different places to go in California because of its size. From the beach to the mountains, there is something for everyone.
27. Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California. It is a beautiful city with plenty to offer activities and attractions.
If you are looking for somewhere to go on vacation, then Santa Barbara should definitely be at the top of your list.
There are plenty of things to do in Santa Barbara, regardless of what your interests are.
If you love the outdoors, then you will be spoilt for choice with all of the hiking and biking trails available.
Or, if you prefer to spend your time indoors, there are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore. And, of course, no trip to Santa Barbara would be complete without spending some time on the beach.
28. Santa Ynez Mountains
The Santa Ynez Mountains are a beautiful mountain range in California. The Santa Ynez Mountains are a range of mountains in southern California that stretch for over 150 miles.
The range includes several peaks, including San Gorgonio Mountain, the tallest mountain in the range at 11,503 feet.
The mountains are home to several state and national parks and numerous hiking trails and campgrounds.
They offer many fun activities for visitors, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are also several wineries in the area that offer tours and tastings.
The mountains are a great place to escape the heat of the Californian sun and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the Santa Ynez Mountains are a great option.
29. Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is a town in Mono County, California, the county seat of Mammoth Lakes. The population was 2,824 at the 2010 census.
Until recent years, it was primarily a stopover for travelers along the eastern Sierra Nevada.
However, since the construction of the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area in the late 1950s and the subsequent growth of both winter and summer tourist activities, Mammoth Lakes has become a year-round recreation destination.
The area around Mammoth Lakes is thought to have been first inhabited by Native Americans who used the hot springs for healing.
If you’re looking to experience some history while you’re in Mammoth Lakes, there are a few places you can go.
The Mono Lake Committee Information Center and Bookstore is a great place to start. The Mono Lake Committee is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the unique ecosystem of Mono Lake and its surrounding environment.
The Information Center has exhibits on the natural history of the area as well as the current environmental issues facing Mono Lake.
The Mammoth Lakes Basin Museum is another great place to learn about the history of Mammoth Lakes. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits on the geology, archaeology, and history of Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra Nevada region.
Mammoth Lakes is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Its many hiking trails and beautiful scenery make it perfect for a nature lover. There are also plenty of activities for those who want to stay active, such as biking and skiing.
Thoughts and Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a place to take the kids or a place to let loose and have some fun, California has something for everyone. There are many options to keep you busy, from theme parks and water parks to zoos and museums. So get out there and explore all that the Golden State has to offer.
