Things to Do in Northern California
Venture into Lava Beds National Monument’s lava tube caves, hike volcanic terrain, and explore ancient petroglyphs etched in stone.
Stand in awe of some of the tallest trees in the world, hiking through ancient forests.
3. Mount Shasta
Explore this majestic, snow-capped peak with alpine scenery.
4. Burney Falls
Discover why Teddy Roosevelt called it “the Eighth Wonder of the World” at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park.
Venture deep into Shasta Caverns, where you’ll be awed by massive stalactites, stalagmites, and the Mirror Lake chamber, all hidden beneath the picturesque Shasta Lake.
6. Sundial Bridge in Redding
Walk across this architectural marvel that spans the Sacramento River, designed by Santiago Calatrava.
Witness bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and the stunning Lassen Peak.
Drive through towering redwoods on this scenic route in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
9. Glass Beach
At Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, the shore sparkles with colorful sea glass, remnants of a bygone era, with the best finds located near the southern end of the beach.
Russian Gulch State Park invites you to explore its fern-filled canyons, hike to the 36-foot waterfall, and visit the Devil’s Punchbowl, a dramatic sinkhole along the coast.
Be amazed by the natural artistry of Bowling Ball Beach, where perfectly rounded boulders line the shore, best viewed at low tide for the full effect.
12. Lake Tahoe
Sail across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, enjoying panoramic mountain views.
Trek through rugged terrain and pristine alpine lakes in this remote area near Lake Tahoe.
14. Highway 395 Road Trip
On a Highway 395 road trip, make sure to stop at the eerie Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, explore the ghost town of Bodie, and take in the stunning views from the ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.
Step back in time at historic towns like Columbia, Nevada City, and Sutter Creek, each offering a glimpse into California’s Gold Rush era.
16. White Water Rafting on the American River
Feel the rush of the rapids as you navigate the South Fork of the American River, with thrilling Class III runs through the historic Gold Rush town of Coloma.
Tour the state’s political heart and stroll through the surrounding gardens.
Experience wooden sidewalks, historic buildings, and the California State Railroad Museum.
Walk among ancient redwoods in a serene forest setting near Guerneville.
Sip your way through California’s two most famous wine regions: Napa and Sonoma. Start with the sparkling wines at Domaine Carneros, followed by a tour and tasting at Castello di Amorosa’s medieval-style castle, and finish with the lush reds of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars.
Point Reyes National Seashore beckons with its windswept beaches, the dramatic cliffs of Chimney Rock, the unique beauty of the Cypress Tree Tunnel, and the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse.
Wander among ancient, towering redwoods just a stone’s throw from San Francisco.
Snap that perfect photo from the Marin Headlands with the bridge in the foreground.
24. Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park offers endless discoveries, from the serene Japanese Tea Garden and the exotic plants in the Conservatory of Flowers to the family-friendly California Academy of Sciences and the tranquil Stow Lake.
Wander through diverse districts like Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, and the Mission District, each with its own unique vibe.
Experience the city’s steep hills on a historic ride from Powell to Fisherman’s Wharf.
27. Dolores Park
Enjoy sunny days with stunning views of the San Francisco skyline in the Mission District.
Cheer on the San Francisco Giants with stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
29. Alcatraz Island
Tour the infamous prison that once housed notorious criminals like Al Capone.
Wander the maze-like mansion with quirky architecture and bizarre staircases leading to nowhere in San Jose.
Famous for its large elephant seal colony, coastal trails, and sweeping ocean views, making it a prime spot for wildlife watching and nature hikes.
Stand in awe of giant sequoias in this state park known for its ancient trees.
33. Moaning Caverns
Descend into Moaning Caverns, home to California’s largest single cave chamber, and experience the thrill of rappelling 165 feet into the abyss or navigating the adventurous spiral staircase.
Hike iconic trails like the Mist Trail or Half Dome, surrounded by towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
35. Bodie Ghost Town
Step back in time at Bodie Ghost Town, where over 100 weathered buildings, including a schoolhouse and saloon, tell the story of this once-thriving Gold Rush town now frozen in time.
Explore the otherworldly landscape of Mono Lake, where limestone towers rise from the salty waters.
37. Eastern Sierra Hot Springs
Relax in natural hot springs with stunning mountain views. Specific options include Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, Travertine Hot Springs, and Benton Hot Springs.
Explore the geometric marvel of Devils Postpile, where basalt columns tower above, and continue your hike to the 101-foot Rainbow Falls, where the mist often creates a stunning spectrum of colors.
Things to Do in Central California
Enjoy classic amusement rides, games, and a day at the beach at California’s oldest seaside amusement park.
40. Elkhorn Slough
Kayak alongside otters, seals, and a myriad of birds in this peaceful estuary near Monterey.
Dive into the life and works of famed author John Steinbeck in his hometown of Salinas.
Discover the fascinating underground world created by Baldassare Forestiere, filled with grottoes, tunnels, and unique plantings.
Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Parks invite you to stand among giants in the General Sherman Tree grove, hike the Mist Falls Trail, and gaze into the canyon’s depths from the panoramic view at Zumwalt Meadow.
44. Mt Whitney
Conquer the heights of Mt. Whitney, starting from Whitney Portal, and be rewarded with stunning views of the Eastern Sierra from the tallest peak in the contiguous U.S.
Get up close with mesmerizing marine life, including playful sea otters and colorful jellyfish.
Carmel-by-the-Sea enchants with its fairy-tale cottages, art galleries along Ocean Avenue, and the scenic beauty of nearby Carmel Beach, perfect for a sunset stroll.
47. 17-Mile Drive
Witness dramatic coastal beauty, including the Lone Cypress, and luxurious homes.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve lures you with its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves like China Cove, and abundant wildlife, including playful sea otters and harbor seals.
On a Big Sur road trip, don’t miss the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, the breathtaking views from McWay Falls, and the peaceful serenity of Pfeiffer Beach, famous for its purple sand.
Hike through unique rock formations and talus caves, and spot California condors soaring overhead.
51. Hearst Castle
Tour the opulent estate of media magnate William Randolph Hearst, with its grand rooms and stunning ocean views.
Paso Robles tempts wine lovers with its diverse offerings, from the Rhône-style wines at Tablas Creek Vineyard to the bold reds of Justin Vineyards, all set in a relaxed, rustic landscape.
53. Morro Rock
Morro Rock stands as a sentinel at the entrance to Morro Bay, where you can watch surfers catch waves, explore the nearby tide pools, or take a scenic boat tour around the bay.
Discover California’s mission history at this beautifully preserved site, founded in 1772.
55. Madonna Inn
Stay or dine in this flamboyantly decorated landmark known for its uniquely themed rooms.
In spring, Carrizo Plain National Monument explodes with color as wildflowers blanket the valley floor. Outside of that seasno, a visit to the Painted Rock petroglyph site offers a glimpse into the area’s ancient history.
57. Oceano Dunes
Ride the dunes like a pro near Pismo Beach, swapping snow for sand in this unique landscape.
58. Solvang
Experience Danish charm with windmills, pastries, and Scandinavian culture in this unique town.
59. Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, aka the “American Riviera,” features the historic Mission Santa Barbara, wine tasting in Santa Ynez Valley, and dining on Stearns Wharf.
60. Ojai
Ojai is a haven for relaxation, where you can unwind at the local hot springs, explore the charming downtown filled with art galleries and boutiques, and catch the “pink moment” as the sun sets over the Topatopa Mountains.
Channel Islands National Park offers a pristine escape where you can hike the rugged trails of Santa Cruz Island, kayak through sea caves, and spot unique wildlife like the island fox.
62. Kern River
The Kern River is an adventurer’s playground, where you can tackle white-water rapids, discover hidden hot springs, or hike the scenic River Trail.
Explore one of the hottest places on Earth, with stunning landscapes like Badwater Basin and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
Mojave National Preserve is a desert wonderland, where you can explore the massive Kelso Dunes, wander among the Joshua trees, and marvel at the volcanic cinder cones.
Things to Do in Southern California
65. Malibu
Malibu offers stunning beaches like Zuma and El Matador, plus scenic hikes such as Solstice Canyon’s waterfall trail and the panoramic Mishe Mokwa Trail to Sandstone Peak.
66. Getty Center
Admire art masterpieces and enjoy panoramic city views at this iconic LA museum.
Experience thrilling rides and behind-the-scenes tours at this world-renowned movie studio.
68. Hollywood Sign
Hike to this iconic landmark for an Insta-worthy shot overlooking Los Angeles.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the cosmos from this iconic observatory.
70. Runyon Canyon
Hike or jog with city skyline views, and maybe spot a celebrity, in this popular LA park.
Stroll along this famous boulevard and see the stars of your favorite celebrities embedded in the sidewalk.
72. La Brea Tar Pits
Step back into prehistoric times and see fossils being excavated in the heart of Los Angeles.
Capture the iconic glow of LACMA’s Urban Light installation, where 202 vintage street lamps create a stunning photo backdrop, especially at twilight.
Marvel at the architecture and catch a performance at this stunning downtown LA venue.
Cheer for the Lakers in one of the NBA’s most iconic arenas.
The Santa Monica Pier, with its classic Ferris wheel and historic carousel, offers endless fun, from arcade games to oceanfront dining at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Pedal the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, a 22-mile coastal path that takes you from the sandy beaches of Santa Monica to the rocky shores of Torrance, with plenty of stops for ice cream and ocean views.
78. Venice Beach & Canals
Venice Beach buzzes with energy, from the colorful boardwalk to Muscle Beach’s outdoor gym, while the tranquil canals offer a serene retreat just steps away.
79. Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is a four-season playground, where you can ski the slopes of Snow Summit in winter or rent a paddleboard for a peaceful summer day on the water.
Tour this historic ocean liner, now a hotel and museum, with a spooky reputation.
81. Catalina Island
Escape to this picturesque island for hiking, snorkeling, and relaxation.
Disneyland and California Adventure bring the magic to life, where you can explore Galaxy’s Edge, soar over California on Soarin’, and meet your favorite characters in person.
Orange County boasts some of California’s most beautiful beaches, from the dramatic cliffs and tide pools of Laguna Beach to the wide, sandy shores of Newport Beach or Huntington Beach, perfect for both surfing and sunset watching.
Crystal Cove State Park is a coastal gem, where you can hike along bluffs overlooking the ocean, explore tide pools teeming with marine life, and even stay overnight in a historic beach cottage.
85. Palm Springs
Lounge by the pool, explore mid-century modern architecture and unwind in this desert oasis.
Wander through surreal desert landscapes, dotted with the park’s namesake trees, and marvel at the massive boulder formations.
87. Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Temecula
Soar above vineyards and rolling hills for a unique perspective of Southern California’s wine country.
88. San Diego Safari Park
Experience a safari adventure where animals roam in expansive habitats.
Discover hidden oases, desert wildflowers, and unique landscapes in California’s largest state park.
90. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Hike coastal trails with stunning ocean panoramas at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
Discover the birthplace of California with its historic buildings and authentic Mexican cuisine.
92. Balboa Park
Explore museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo in this cultural hub.
93. San Diego Zoo
The world-renowned San Diego Zoo is home to thousands of animals, from giant pandas to koalas, with lush habitats like the African Rainforest and Polar Bear Plunge.
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at popular spots like Filippi’s Pizza Grotto or Bencotto Italian Kitchen.
Step aboard this historic aircraft carrier turned museum docked in San Diego Bay.
96. Fish Tacos in San Diego
Indulge in the city’s famous fish tacos at local favorites like Oscar’s Mexican Seafood or South Beach Bar & Grille.
Miscellaneous Must-Dos in California
Embark on an epic road trip, winding along California’s stunning coastline from north to south.
98. California Missions
Explore the history of early California at missions like San Juan Capistrano or Santa Barbara.
99. In-N-Out Burger
Explore the history of early California at missions like San Juan Capistrano or Santa Barbara.
100. Whale Watching
For whale watching, head to Monterey Bay for humpbacks, Dana Point for dolphin sightings, and San Diego for gray whales during their migration. Whale watching is a year-round attraction in California, it just depends on which whales you want to see!
101. Learn How to Surf
Catch your first wave with a surf lesson at one of California’s iconic beaches like Huntington or Santa Cruz, where seasoned instructors will guide you from paddling out to riding your first swell.
Seasonal Bucket List Items in California
Winter
1. Skiing in Mammoth, Big Bear, or Lake Tahoe
Ski or snowboard at one of California’s top winter sports destinations.
Celebrate winter with parades, parties, and snow-filled fun.
Watch festively decorated boats light up the harbor.
Marvel at flower-covered floats ushering in the New Year.
This historic town transforms into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, carolers, and charming holiday shopping, capturing the magic of a bygone era.
6. Migrating Monarch Butterflies (Santa Cruz, Pacific Grove, Pismo Beach)
Santa Cruz, Pacific Grove, and Pismo Beach all offer a magical experience as thousands of these vibrant butterflies gather during their annual migration from mid Oct-Feb (peak in late November).
A stunning drive through vibrant orchards in full bloom from late February to mid-March.
Spring
8. Cherry Blossom Festival (San Francisco)
Celebrate the arrival of spring at San Francisco’s Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown, where you can enjoy traditional Japanese performances, food, and the beauty of blooming sakura trees.
Marvel at vast fields of blooming poppies and wildflowers.
Stroll through acres of colorful ranunculus flowers in the spring.
Groove to world-class jazz in a historic setting.
12. Music Festivals in the Desert (Indio)
Experience the vibes of Coachella or Stagecoach, two of California’s premier music festivals.
Summer
San Francisco Pride is a vibrant celebration of love and equality, with a lively parade down Market Street, colorful costumes, and events all over the city that embrace diversity.
14. Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival (San Francisco)
Outside Lands transforms Golden Gate Park into a music lover’s paradise, where you can catch headlining acts, explore immersive art installations, and savor gourmet food from Bay Area chefs.
Celebrate all things garlic with food, fun, and festivities.
16. California State Fair (Sacramento)
The California State Fair in Sacramento is a summer tradition, featuring everything from thrilling rides and live music to livestock shows and farm-to-fork food tastings.
17. Vans US Open of Surfing (Huntington Beach)
The Vans US Open of Surfing turns Huntington Beach into a hub of surf culture, where you can watch the pros compete, catch a skateboarding demo, and enjoy live music right on the sand.
Fall
18. Apple Picking in Julian or Apple Hill
Enjoy the crisp autumn air while picking fresh apples.
Celebrate the season with giant pumpkins, art, and festive fun.
Enjoy beer, brats, and Bavarian fun in the mountains.
One of the most picturesque spots to see peak fall foliage in California.
22. Wine Harvest Season
Participate in grape stomping and tastings during the vibrant harvest season in regions like Napa or Sonoma.
Map of 101 Things to Do in California
Tips for Visiting California
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer is perfect for beaches and festivals, and winter is ideal for skiing and whale watching.
- Best Way to Get Around: Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore California, especially for scenic drives and remote areas, but public transportation, rideshares, and cycling are great for city exploration.
- Best Airports to Fly Into: Major airports like LAX, SFO, and SAN are convenient for different regions, while smaller airports like SMF, OAK, and SNA offer easier access to specific areas and less crowded alternatives.
- Plan for Traffic: California is known for its traffic, especially in major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, so plan your travel times accordingly and consider using public transportation or rideshare services.
- Pack for Diverse Weather: California’s climate varies greatly from region to region, so bring layers to adapt to coastal fog, desert heat, and cooler mountain temperatures.
- Book Ahead for Popular Destinations: Iconic spots like Yosemite, Big Sur, and popular attractions in Los Angeles can get crowded, so book accommodations, tours, and dining experiences in advance, especially during peak season.
