31 Best & Fun Things To Do in California

7/17/2021 31 Best & Fun Things To Do In California - Attractions & Points Of Interest
31 Best & Fun Things To Do In California

Last updated: May 21, 2021
By: Busy Tourist
California is one of the best travel destinations in the United States.
It might be famous for its glitzy resorts and celebrity sightings, but there’s so
much more to the state than its polished, brochure-ready surface.
For example, did you know that it’s also home to some of the most historic
landmarks on the west coast?
Were you aware that it’s a melting pot for cultures all over the world?
It also has a stunning range of geographical diversity; it’s filled with

mountains, rivers, volcanoes, deserts, forests and wetlands.
There’s a reason why California is one of the top travel destinations for
tourists.
Let us prove it to you.
https://www.busytourist.com/best-things-to-do-in-california/ 1/67
Here are 31 things to do in California and why they’ll rock your socks off!
1. Hollywood Sign
Maks Ershov / Shutterstock
Visiting the Hollywood sign is one of the best things to do in California.
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Jutting proudly over the cliffs of Hollywood Hills, it’s the single most iconic
landmark in cinematic history, and visitors come from all around the world to
snap a selfie with its famous white letters.
You’ll have a few options when it comes to reaching the sign.
If you’re outdoorsy, you can hike a trail through the woods that will lead you to
a good vantage point.
If you prefer your fun to be a little more air-conditioned, you can hop in an
elevator in an observation tower near the cliffs.
There are strict rules for visiting the sign, so don’t expect to get too close.
Just appreciate the opportunity to take vacation photos with such an amazing
monument.
If you’re wondering what to do in California, you can’t go wrong with the

Hollywood sign!
Address: Los Angeles, CA 90068, United States
2. Big Sur
Abbie Warnock-Matthews / Shutterstock
With the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, Big Sur is one of
the most breathtaking destinations in California.
It’s a scenic drive that will ruin you for all other scenic drives.
The views will range from gentle hills to dramatic waves pounding against the
cliffs.
You’ll see bridges, crags, canyons, lighthouses and waterfalls.
The route itself is 90 miles long, but if you want to extend your sightseeing,
you can venture into a number of nearby parks, forests, beaches and
campgrounds to keep the fun going.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at these destinations, too.
Take a hike along the Pine Ridge Trail; splash around at Pfeiffer Beach;
search for nephrite jade crystals at Jade Cove.
Climb a mountain in the Ventana Wilderness. Go hang-gliding at the Big Sur

Village.
The sky is the limit when you visit Big Sur, so it’s definitely a must do in
California.
You’ll be able to pack several different vacation experiences into a single trip!
3. Venice Beach Boardwalk
Ingus Kruklitis / Shutterstock
Known for its vibrant, colorful atmosphere, the Venice Beach Boardwalk is
one of the main attractions of California.
There’s always a crowd, and they’re always full of energy.
Jugglers weave around face painters and street musicians; fortune-tellers call
out to tourists while food truck owners entice them with sights and smells.
Bodybuilders flex. Skateboarders do tricks. Vendors hawk their t-shirts and

key chains.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed at the Venice Beach Boardwalk, but it’s a good
kind of overwhelming.
There’s a lot of fun stuff to do, so it’s just a matter of deciding what interests
you the most.
If you’re looking for places of interest in California, the party never stops at the
Venice Beach Boardwalk.
There’s a reason why it sees millions of visitors per year.
People are drawn to its energy and vibrancy just like moths to a flame!
Address: 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291, United States
4. Old Sacramento
Sheila Fitzgerald / Shutterstock
Step back in time with a trip to Old Sacramento.
As one of the communities at the forefront of the Gold Rush, it’s been
carefully preserved with buildings, railways, museums and memorials that
both celebrate and commemorate its role in U.S. history.
Horse-drawn carriages clank down streets that are lined with old-fashioned
courthouses and schoolhouses.
A train offers regular rides through the city.
Visitors can check out everything from a centuries-old governor’s mansion to

an authentic terminal for the Pony Express.
There are many fun things to do in Sacramento, but there’s something

special about its historic district.
Maybe it’s because the Gold Rush was such a defining era of U.S. history,
and Old Sacramento was right in the thick of it.
You won’t want to miss this slice of the good old days when the gold was
flowing and anyone could strike it rich.
5. Death Valley National Park
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Death Valley National Park is home to some of the most extreme

landscapes in the US.
It’s hot, dry and dangerous, which is exactly how it got its name; many
pioneers lost their lives while toiling through its rocky canyons and snake-
infested sand dunes in the 1800s.
There’s a kind of rugged beauty to the landscape, however, especially when

you visit places like the cracked salt flats of Badwater Basin.
At 280 feet below sea level, it’s the lowest point on the entire continent, and
it’s both desolate and dazzling.
You might also enjoy Furnace Creek: It’s recorded the highest air
temperatures on the planet.
If you aren’t afraid of rattlesnakes, there are places to go off the beaten path,
too.
You can enjoy all sorts of hiking, biking, climbing, camping and stargazing in
Death Valley National Park.
In the middle of the desert, you’ll be miles from the lights and air pollution of
nearby cities, so the stars will stretch as far as the eye can see.
Consider a trip to Death Valley National Park if you’re looking for cool things
to do in California.
Even setting aside its one-of-a-kind views, how often do you get the chance to
say that you survived a place called Death Valley?
6. OUE Skyspace
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There are lots of cool things to see in Los Angeles, but few will get your
heart racing like OUE Skyspace.
It’s one of the tallest observation decks in California, so you’ll already feel the
thrill as you ascend to the top, and your nerves will absolutely crackle like pop
rocks when you see the transparent glass slide that will take you back down.
It’s perfectly safe, of course; tourists take the slide every day.
You just need a certain amount of courage to send yourself hurdling into the
open air with nothing but the blue sky to catch you.
When you’re done tempting fate, there are other things to enjoy at OUE
Skyspace as well.
A bar is always stocked for happy hour, and there are frequent music
performances and wine tasting events.
There’s even a selfie machine if your smartphone isn’t capturing your best
angle at 70 stories high.
OUE Skyspace is a must do when you’re in Los Angeles.
In fact, it’s a must do even when you’re in other parts of California.
Take a side trip to come and marvel at the aerial views of one of the world’s
most famous cities.
You won’t regret it!
Address: 633 W 5th St #840, Los Angeles, CA 90071, United States
7. Santa Cruz Vineyards
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Many people think of Napa Valley when they think of wine, and while that can
be a great place to sip a red, it isn’t the only destination in California that will
get you buzzed.
Santa Cruz has gorgeous vineyards with lots of tours and tastings, and as a
bonus, it’s often less crowded than other parts of “wine country.”
The best vineyard tour for you will depend on the type of experience that you
want to have.
If you like casual, laid-back atmospheres, sit on the patio of MJA Vineyards
and enjoy live music and conversation.
If you want something a little more rustic, hike into the mountains for a picnic
on the grasses of Beauregard Vineyard.
If you’re interested in wine production and its history, Ridge Vineyards has
been in operation since before Prohibition.
These are just a few of the best vineyards in Santa Cruz, but there’s a lot
more where that came from.
Stomping on grapes is one of the most fun things to do in California, so don’t

miss out on this opportunity when you’re traveling on the west coast!
8. Disneyland
Nani Leilani / flickr
If you’re taking your kids to California, it would be a downright crime not to

visit Disneyland.
Not only does it offer all of the games, rides, activities and events that you
could ever want from an amusement park, but it will also keep you
comfortable with luxury accommodation and cuisine.
There are so many things to see in Disneyland that they could make up an
entire list of their own.
From haunted houses to jungle cruises, it’s absolutely jam-packed with

entertainment.
Trains will take you throughout the park so that you don’t miss a thing.
When you’re not splashing or shrieking on rides, you can explore various
shops, cafes, restaurants, arcades, emporiums and hotels.
Going to Disneyland is on a lot of bucket lists.
If it’s on yours as well, cross it off during your trip to California.
See for yourself why it’s considered the happiest place on Earth!
Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
9. Malibu Surfrider Beach
Malibu is known for its rich and famous residents, but it’s also gaining
popularity as a hot spot for surfers.
People come from all over the state to enjoy its crystal-clear waters and
moderate climate, and surf shops are popping up like dandelions along the
coast.
It’s okay if you’re a beginner.
Surfers of all ages and skill levels can find a place to practice their alley-oops,
and local instructors are available to help you rent a board, master a stance or
weather a wipeout.
You don’t have to be a celebrity to have a great time at Malibu Surfrider

Beach.
Catching a wave is one of the best things to do in California, so grab your

board and shimmy into your wetsuit.
The water is waiting!
Address: 23050 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
10. Winchester Mystery House
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Built by an eccentric woman for more than 30 years, the Winchester Mystery
House is an architectural oddity that defies explanation.
It’s a gigantic, Victorian-style mansion with literally hundreds of rooms,

windows, staircases, corridors and closets, but they don’t follow any kind of
design.
The staircases lead nowhere. The doors are oddly shaped and spaced.
Many hallways are more like labyrinths than passageways in a home.
Some people say that its builder, a wealthy widow named Sarah Winchester,
came unhinged after the death of her husband.
Others say that she was trying to confuse the ghosts of people killed by
Winchester rifles; her husband was their inventor, and that’s how she inherited
so much money.
Some people say that the house is still haunted to this day.
Regardless of the story that you believe, the Winchester Mystery House is a
unique, must see destination in California.
If you’re looking for neat things to do in San Jose or the Silicon Valley area,
grab your energy reader and go ghost-hunting in one of the most bizarre
buildings in the world.
Address: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128, United States
11. San Diego Zoo
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With thousands of animals in hundreds of habitats, the San Diego Zoo is the
biggest zoo in California.
It houses all of the usual suspects, including lions, gorillas and elephants, but
it’s also home to unique species like the pancake tortoise and the clouded
leopard.
Some of these creatures are only on display at the San Diego Zoo, so it’s a
rare opportunity to see and photograph them in real life.
Visitors to the zoo can hop on a train or ride a gondola skylift to reach different
enclosures.
Special events happen on the weekends for kids and couples, including
“sunrise tours” before the zoo opens and “wild nights out” that include drinks,
music and animal petting.
Are you still planning your vacation from home?
Check out the zoo’s live cams on your smartphone to watch the frolicking of
penguins and polar bears.
You can decide if you’re interested in a visit before you even pack your bag.
The San Diego Zoo is easily one of the top things to do in California.
If you want a fun time with your favorite critters, buy a ticket today.
Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Planning a trip to San Diego soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to
do in San Diego!
12. Alcatraz Island
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You’ve probably heard of Alcatraz, the famous penitentiary that housed all
sorts of mobsters, gangsters and ne’er-do-wells.
But did you know that you can actually tour the now-closed cell blocks?
They’re some of the top things to see in California, and they’ll provide an
incredible experience for people traveling to the Golden State.
The first thing that you’ll need to do is hop on a ferry in San Francisco and
ride out to the island.
Once you’re ashore, you’re free to roam the land and check out all of the
tourist attractions as you see fit.
The prison is the biggest draw, of course, and there are audio tours of the
facility available in multiple languages.
But you can also explore the local lighthouse or the abandoned military
fortresses of the island.
There are even collections of rock pools and rare migratory birds for nature
lovers.
Visiting Alcatraz Island is one of the best things to do on a California

vacation.
How many chances do you get to walk on the same grass as Al Capone,
Bumpy Johnson and George “Machine Gun” Kelly?
Take advantage of the opportunity while you can!
Address: San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
13. Lassen Volcanic National Park
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When are you traveling to California?
Are you looking for tourist attractions that are fun and accessible at any time
of year?
While some beaches and parks are closed during the off-season, there’s one
place where you can always enjoy nature: Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Like the name implies, Lassen Volcanic National Park is built on volcanic land.
It’s dormant, but you can still hike to places with steaming geysers, black lava
rocks and bubbling mud pits.
Other sections of the park are covered in flowers in the spring and snow in the
winter.
You can indulge in everything from backpacking to alpine skiing depending on

the weather.
All things considered, Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the biggest
points of interest in California.
It provides some of the best sightseeing opportunities in the state, and it’ll
keep you busy with its never-ending roster of events and activities.
It’s a top attraction for sure.
14. Solvang
You don’t have to fly to Europe to experience a European vacation.
In Solvang, Europe will come to you in the form of a quaint, charming little
village nestled in a small California valley.
Denmark is its country of origin.
The streets are crowded with bakeries, wineries, chocolate shops and shoe
cobblers; the buildings are designed with the red bricks and sloped ceilings of
real Danish architecture.
An old-fashioned windmill slowly turns on top of the main square.
If you’re a fan of Hans Christian Anderson, his museum is here.
If you’ve always wanted to try ableskiver pastries or medisterkorv sausage,

there are designated “Danish Days” where residents come together to
celebrate the music, art, food, fashion and dances of their homeland.
Solvang is one of the best California attractions for lovers of the quirky and
unique.
You’ll be transported right back to an 18th-century European village without

even having to leave the west coast!
15. Lake Tahoe
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Surrounded by mountains and filled with water so blue that it looks like a
child’s crayon, Lake Tahoe is one of the highlights of California.
Not only does it offer stunning panoramas of the local scenery, but its activity
roster is packed with fun stuff for families, couples and groups.
A dozen ski resorts are nestled in the mountains for wintertime pursuits.
Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing or snowmobile riding,

you’ll find it at Lake Tahoe.
Summertime activities include hiking, biking and camping, and when you jump
in the water, they expand to swimming, sailing, fishing, kayaking and scuba
diving.
Do you feel lucky?
Lake Tahoe straddles the line between California and Nevada, and there are
casinos on the Nevada side that are easily accessed via highways.
Are you a fan of arts and culture?
Several mansions and museums are located near the water, and tours are
available for curious tourists.
Lake Tahoe is one of the major points of interest of California, so if you’re

looking for the best ways to spend a vacation or honeymoon on the west
coast, put the lake on your shortlist.
It can fill your weekends with everything from low-key leisure activities to
thrilling, death-defying sports, and it’s beautiful to boot!
16. RMS Queen Mary
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The RMS Queen Mary is a gigantic ocean liner that used to sail the waters
between America and Great Britain.
She was retired in the 1960s, but instead of scrapping her for parts, the
California government decided to turn her into one of their most unique
attractions.
Today, the RMS Queen Mary functions as a hotel, museum, restaurant and
shopping plaza that bobs right in the harbor of Long Beach.
There are lots of things to see on the ship.
From ballrooms to workout rooms, there’s a little something for everyone.
You could eat, shop and tour this massive 1,000-foot vessel for an entire
weekend without seeing everything that it has to offer.
To experience the best of California, you need to know how to plan a trip
with the right accommodation.
Choose the RMS Queen Mary for fun and function under a single roof.
When you’re done fluffing the pillows under your porthole window, you can hit
the deck for all kinds of seaside adventures.
Address: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States
17. San Francisco Cable Car Museum
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You’ve probably seen the iconic cable cars of San Francisco in movies and
TV shows.
Few people know, however, that it’s the last manual cable car system in the
entire world, and it’s actually considered a “working museum” in its own right.
If you’re interested in the cars, you’ll definitely want to hop aboard during your
trip to California.
Since they’re the last of their kind, you won’t get this opportunity anywhere
else.
You might also enjoy the San Francisco Cable Car Museum.
It goes into the story and history of the cable car system while also providing
an insider look at its mechanics.
You’ll be amazed at the constantly-spinning wheels that pull the levers of the
cars!
Try something new with the San Francisco Cable Car Museum.
It isn’t a beach or a casino, but if you’re visiting California and wondering what
to do with your time, it can be just as fun.
Address: 1201 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
Visiting San Francisco soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in
San Francisco!
18. Glass Beach
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Glass Beach is one of the most beautiful places to visit in California, so it

might surprise you to learn that it was created by something very ugly:
pollution.
Years ago, Glass Beach was a dumping ground for garbage.
It was taken into the ocean and eroded, smoothed and polished until it
became something known as “sea glass.”
Sea glass is shaped like natural stone but comes in a dazzling, glittering
rainbow of man-made colors.
You won’t believe your eyes when you step on Glass Beach.
With the tide bringing in wave after wave of multicolored sea glass, it’s one of
those picturesque tourist attractions where you’ll have to pinch yourself to
know that it’s real.
Even photos fail to do it justice; there’s something special about the way that
sunlight glitters off the glass.
If you’re wondering what to do during a California vacation, Glass Beach

should definitely be on your bucket list.
It’s a place where trash has turned into treasure. You won’t want to miss it.
19. Presidio of Santa Barbara
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Presidio is a Spanish word meaning “prison” or “fortification,” and it’s used to

describe a specific kind of military fortress that was built by Spanish forces
during their expansion into the New World.
A well-known example of this architecture is the Presidio of Santa Barbara.
Originally built in the 1700s, the Presidio of Santa Barbara has seen
everything from wars to earthquakes.
It’s one of the oldest surviving structures in the state of California, and it’s
among the last of the military outposts that were built by Spain on U.S. soil.
Its white adobe bricks are topped with red-tiled roofs.
Its twisting hallways lead to gates, chapels, plazas, kitchens, bedrooms and
training rooms.
When you see it, you can’t help but think that it’s a landmark that has been
frozen in time; you’ll be able to walk along the same paths as Spanish,
English and British soldiers from centuries past.
If you’re looking for things to do in Santa Barbara, consider this well-

preserved presidio.
It’s a must see for history buffs, culture lovers and military enthusiasts alike.
Address: 123 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United State
20. Balboa Fun Zone
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If you love amusement parks but don’t have the time or budget for
Disneyland, the Balboa Fun Zone is a nice alternative.
It’s a rare “coastal amusement park,” which means that you’ll be treated to
ocean views whenever you ride to the top of the Ferris wheel, and you can
also partake in unique harbor activities like whale watching or bayside bungee
jumping.
Another nice thing about the Balboa Fun Zone is that it’s suitable for all ages.
If you’re traveling to California with kids, they can enjoy carousels, arcade
games or gentle ferry rides while mom and dad are shopping or dining nearby.
The whole family can have a good time.
In terms of California attractions, it’s hard to beat the Balboa Fun Zone.
It might not be as large or as impressive as Mickey Mouse’s natural habitat,

but it still has tons to offer its visitors, especially when you’re vacationing on a
budget.
It’s a very wallet-friendly destination in Orange County.
Address: 600 E Bay Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92661, United States
21. Sequoia National Park
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California is one of the most beautiful states in the U.S., and when you visit
Sequoia National Park, you’ll understand why.
From its larger-than-life redwood trees to its glittering underground crystal

caves, it will leave you breathless from top to bottom.
The main attraction of the park is its giant sequoia trees.
They’re more than 2,500 years old and 275 feet tall, so humans are the size
of ants compared to their trunks.
They’re also quite rare; California is the only place to find their particular
species, so the park is a unique chance to see, touch, smell and photograph
them.
You can also explore caves, canyons, rivers, granite domes and toppled tree
groves in Sequoia National Park.
In the summer, there’s rock climbing and horseback riding. In the winter,
there’s skiing and snowshoeing.
Consider a trip to Sequoia National Park if you’re looking for fun things to do
in California.
Not only is it a beautiful place, but it’s open 365 days per year, so you’ll never
have trouble fitting it into your schedule.
You can be packed up and ready to explore the redwoods as early as this
weekend!
22. Fisherman’s Wharf
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Seafood lovers, this destination is for you.
Fisherman’s Wharf lives up to its name by offering freshly-caught and

freshly-cooked seafood at a variety of waterfront restaurants.
Not only will you enjoy the view, but you’ll also fill your belly with some of the
tastiest dishes in California.
If you like crab, for example, there’s a famous dish in Fisherman’s Wharf that
serves crab and clam chowder in a sourdough bowl.
If you can’t get enough lobster, they come dripping with butters, spices,
sauces and glazes.
If you’re a fan of catfish, they’ll practically purr on your plate.
Stop by Fisherman’s Wharf if you’ve worked up an appetite during your

travels.
It’s one of the best places in California for seafood, and the only bad thing
about it is that you might not fit into your pants anymore when you’re done!
Address: Jefferson Street, Between Hyde and Powell Streets, San Francisco,
CA 94133, USA
23. Desert Hot Springs
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Natural hot springs can be found throughout the cliffs and valleys of
California, but the best are tucked away in hot, humid landscapes where the
heat and steam can really come together and make you woozy.
One place to enjoy this kind of decadence is Desert Hot Springs.
Located about a half-hour from the more famous Palm Springs, Desert Hot
Springs is a resort town that’s filled with spas, salons, hotels and mineral
springs.
You’ll have your choice of where to get a good soak.
If you’re into luxury living, you can book a suite at a high-class resort with
artificial waterfalls and steam rooms.
If you prefer a more rustic experience, you can find a local boarding house
with big wooden tubs and heated mineral water drawn directly from the
streams.
Consider Desert Hot Springs if you’re looking for fun things to do in Palm
Springs and its surrounding areas.
There are more mineral springs here than anywhere else in the U.S., so revel
in it!
24. Universal Studios Hollywood
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There are a few different Universal Studios in the world, but the one in
Hollywood is the most iconic.
After all, Hollywood is where the movies are made, and many attractions at
the theme park are dedicated to famous films like Harry Potter and King Kong.
The fun doesn’t stop with fictional characters, however.
Visitors to Universal Studios Hollywood can enjoy rides, slides, studio tours,
stunt shows, games, mazes and motion simulators.
You can shop ’til you drop or fling yourself into the sky with roller coasters and
aerial carousels.
You can run from zombies or cuddle with kung-fu pandas.
You can even reserve a hotel room or dine on a four-course meal right there
in the park.
You don’t have to miss a moment of the action by stepping away!
Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the highlights of California, so book

your ticket as soon as you know that you’re headed in that direction.
Don’t wait for this weekend.
It’s an extremely popular destination, so secure your tickets in advance!
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, United States
25. Burney Falls
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Once called “the eighth wonder of the world” by Theodore Roosevelt, the
power of Burney Falls has to be seen to be believed.
The water rushes from a dozen drop-off points into the lake below, and it runs
continuously throughout the year.
More than 375 liters move through the waterfall on any given day.
This is good news for anyone visiting California during the dry season: Burney
Falls is never affected by a lack of rain!
Another nice thing about the waterfall is that it’s located within a larger area
known as McArthur Burney Falls State Park, so when you’re done with
sightseeing, you can go camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking or horseback riding
on the nearby nature trails.
If you like climbing, you can also haul yourself to the top of several different
observation points for panoramic views.
The beauty of Burney Falls will take a long time to fade from your memory.
It might even linger forever. For this reason and many others, we consider it
one of the best things to do in California.
Address: Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013, USA
26. Anza Borrego Desert
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The Anza Borrego Desert is technically part of the Colorado Desert, but
since the dry, prickly landscape stretches across California’s borders, you can
visit it without actually stepping foot into the other state.
It’s a fun way to play with your map while you journey into the sandy recesses
of the wild west.
As for the highlights of the desert, it depends on what you’re in the mood to
see.
If you’re a naturalist, you’ll be fascinated by the catclaws and manzanitas that

flourish despite the conditions of the earth.
If you’re fascinated by foreign cultures, the desert is close to several Native

American reservations.
The Anza Borrego Desert is also home to metal art sculptures that draw
thousands of curious visitors each year.
They range from mythical dragons to abstract geometric shapes, so they’re

always worth a look.
If you’re looking for the top attractions in California and Colorado, consider
the Anza Borrego Desert.
It’s cool, unique and multicultural, so it’s one of the best finds in two separate
states.
Address: 200 Palm Canyon Dr, Borrego Springs, CA 92004, United States
27. Monterey Bay Aquarium
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Stepping into the Monterey Bay Aquarium is like submerging yourself in the
deepest, most mysterious parts of the ocean.
It isn’t a rinky-dink pet store where you watch goldfish swim around in circles.
It boasts massive, multi-story tanks that hold back millions of gallons of water
and are larger than apartment buildings, and more than 35,000 sea creatures
call them home.
The animals range from cute little starfish to deadly hammerhead sharks.
While most of the creatures live in the water, there are also birds, penguins,
amphibians and crustaceans on land.
Visitors can explore the dark, shadowy corridors with the gigantic tanks above
them and beside them.
They can also step outside to the observation decks that overlook the bay;
many free-range animals can be seen splashing in the water and staring
curiously at tourists.
If you’re wondering what to see in California, consider the Monterey Bay

Aquarium.
Between its size, scale and biodiversity, it’s definitely one of the top 10
destinations in the state.
Address: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, United States
Ready to travel to Monterey? Don’t miss our list of the best things to do in
Monterey!
28. Anacapa Island
Tomas Tichy / Shutterstock
Located a few miles off the coast of California, Anacapa Island offers one of
the most authentic nature trips that you’ll ever take.
There are no roads, bridges or airports, and it doesn’t have any stores,
restaurants, hotels or shopping malls.
Public bathrooms are few and far between. Public phones are nonexistent.
You won’t even find bottled water on the island; you’ll need to bring your own
food and drink.
If you’re looking for the best hike of your life, however, Anacapa Island is the
place to be.
Its untouched wilderness is a marvel in today’s world of commercialized parks

and gardens, and its views are some of the most stunning in California.
It will allow you to get in touch with nature in a way that simply isn’t possible in
busier, less remote places.
Anacapa Island isn’t for everyone.
If you’re a person who enjoys the conveniences of modern living, you might
want to give this destination a pass.
But if you don’t mind losing cell service in the pursuit of something new, give
Anacapa Island a try!
29. Turtle Bay Exploration Park
Turtle Bay Exploration Park
If you’re planning a trip to California and wondering what to do with your time,
Turtle Bay Exploration Park will check off a lot of boxes.
It combines various elements of a museum, arboretum, botanical garden and

wildlife sanctuary, so there’s always something new and exciting to check out.
The nature sections have everything from flower meadows to butterfly

gardens.
The museum is home to photos, samples, artifacts, hands-on exhibits and

viewing tanks for marine life.
The “forest camp” is outfitted with playgrounds and water features, and an
amphitheater has live animal shows on the weekends.
When you can’t decide where to go on vacation, go to a place that has it all.
Turtle Bay Exploration Park can keep you entertained for days, so it’s
definitely worth a spot on your list of California attractions.
Address: 844 Sundial Bridge Drive, Redding, CA 96003, United States
30. Bodie State Historic Park
Gert Hochmuth / Shutterstock
Another relic of the Gold Rush, Bodie is a former boom town that grew quickly
and noisily when people flooded it in an attempt to get rich.
The population dried up when the gold did, and the economy never
recovered.
The good news is that Bodie now functions as an amazing ghost town.
Its homes, parlors, mills and saloons have been carefully preserved like flies
in amber, and tourists can explore the empty buildings and see what life was
really like at the turn of the century.
Tours are available by request.
An on-site museum is filled with photos and artifacts to flesh out the
community and its former residents.
If you’re curious about the Gold Rush, Bodie State Historic Park is one of
the best places to learn about it.
It’s also fun even if you aren’t a history buff!
Ghost towns are always fascinating, so get ready to shiver with a trip to Bodie.
Address: CA-270, Bridgeport, CA 93517, United States
31. Legoland California

Lester Balajadia / Shutterstock
Last but certainly not least, Legoland is something that you’ll want to cross off
your California bucket list.
It’s such a famous attraction that it’s always ranked as one of the top
destinations in the state by travel agencies!
What can you do at Legoland?
A better question is what you can’t do.
From dinosaur rides to safari treks, there’s something crazy and colorful
around every corner.
Kids can splash in pools, operate robots, drive miniature cars and hit each
other with foam.
There’s an aquarium for animal lovers and musical instruments for aspiring
stars.
There’s honestly no limit to the fun, and you don’t have to be a child to enjoy
it.
Legoland is one of the biggest points of interest in California, so don’t hesitate

to get on the phone and book your reservation.
You won’t want to miss out on a place that satisfies more than three million
visitors per year.
Address: 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008, United States
Start Planning Your Trip To California
These are just a few of the most fun things to do in California.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide which attractions and activities
are the best for your family.
You can have a wonderful time in the Golden State; you just have to plan it
right!
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7/17/2021 31 Best & Fun Things To Do In California - Attractions & Points Of Interest

California is one of the best travel destinations in the United States.

It also has a stunning range of geographical diversity; it’s filled with

Let us prove it to you.

Maks Ershov / Shutterstock

Visiting the Hollywood sign is one of the best things to do in California.

You’ll have a few options when it comes to reaching the sign.

If you’re wondering what to do in California, you can’t go wrong with the

Address: Los Angeles, CA 90068, United States

Abbie Warnock-Matthews / Shutterstock

You’ll see bridges, crags, canyons, lighthouses and waterfalls.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at these destinations, too.

Climb a mountain in the Ventana Wilderness. Go hang-gliding at the Big Sur

3. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Ingus Kruklitis / Shutterstock

There’s always a crowd, and they’re always full of energy.

Bodybuilders flex. Skateboarders do tricks. Vendors hawk their t-shirts and

There’s a reason why it sees millions of visitors per year.

Address: 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291, United States

Sheila Fitzgerald / Shutterstock

Step back in time with a trip to Old Sacramento.

A train offers regular rides through the city.

Visitors can check out everything from a centuries-old governor’s mansion to

There are many fun things to do in Sacramento, but there’s something

5. Death Valley National Park

Dan Sedran / Shutterstock

Death Valley National Park is home to some of the most extreme

There’s a kind of rugged beauty to the landscape, however, especially when

Benny Marty / Shutterstock

OUE Skyspace is a must do when you’re in Los Angeles.

In fact, it’s a must do even when you’re in other parts of California.

You won’t regret it!

Address: 633 W 5th St #840, Los Angeles, CA 90071, United States

7. Santa Cruz Vineyards

Lukasz Szwaj / Shutterstock

Stomping on grapes is one of the most fun things to do in California, so don’t

Nani Leilani / flickr

If you’re taking your kids to California, it would be a downright crime not to

From haunted houses to jungle cruises, it’s absolutely jam-packed with

Going to Disneyland is on a lot of bucket lists.

If it’s on yours as well, cross it off during your trip to California.

Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States

9. Malibu Surfrider Beach

Benny Marty / Shutterstock

It’s okay if you’re a beginner.

You don’t have to be a celebrity to have a great time at Malibu Surfrider

Catching a wave is one of the best things to do in California, so grab your

The water is waiting!

Address: 23050 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States

10. Winchester Mystery House

Michael Neil Thomas / Shutterstock

It’s a gigantic, Victorian-style mansion with literally hundreds of rooms,

Many hallways are more like labyrinths than passageways in a home.

Address: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128, United States

11. San Diego Zoo

Sherry V Smith / Shutterstock

Are you still planning your vacation from home?

Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

12. Alcatraz Island

Visiting Alcatraz Island is one of the best things to do on a California

Take advantage of the opportunity while you can!

Address: San Francisco, CA 94133, United States