50 Things to do in California
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
31. Explore El Dorado Nature Center
Spend the day away from the hustle and bustle of the city at this peaceful, wooded 100 acre Long Beach oasis. 2 miles of trails provide visitors with great views of the lakes and forests. El Dorado is a fantastic place for those seeking to explore more than the beach in Southern California.
32. Be entertained by eccentric performers at the Venice Beach Boardwalk
Venice Beach has long been famous for its’ history of street performers on the boardwalk. It’s one thing to see it on TV, but a completely different experience to watch a live performance. While you are visiting, you may see a performer walking on glass or performing an intense balancing act. One thing’s for sure, there is never a dull moment.
Other area highlights include: Muscle Beach, the graffiti walls, the famous basketball courts seen in movies such as “White Men Can’t Jump,” and of course, the scenic Strand bicycle path mentioned earlier.
33. Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Millions flock to Hollywood each year to take photos next to their favorite movie and TV stars. As you stroll along the 15 blocks of Hollywood Blvd., you will find the stars of some of the biggest entertainers of today and yesterday. Here you will also find the historic Grauman’s Chinese Theater, a movie theater built in 1926, which features the hand and foot prints of dozens of celebrities.
Overall, Hollywood Blvd. is a great attraction for movie buffs and those interested in the entertainment industry. Movie premieres are held throughout the year, so if you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of your favorite star walking down the red carpet. Not somewhere I would personally ever visit again due to the crowds & grittiness, however, I am glad I did it once.
34. Hike Runyon Canyon
Runyon Canyon is the best place to hike in the city limits. Not only do you get a great workout walking amongst the hills, you also get treated to spectacular views of the city. Who knew LA could be so beautiful from afar? You really appreciate the city more after taking this gorgeous hike. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the ocean.
Even more, free yoga is offered every day: what’s better than yoga surrounded by a beautiful natural setting? This free gem offers a needed peaceful escape away from the city. It’s a very popular hike, so visit on weekday mornings for less foot traffic.
35. Ski at Heavenly Village
Heavenly Village is the premier skiing area in beautiful Lake Tahoe. Skiers are treated to a variety of terrain and world class views of the lake. Other fun mountain activities include the Heavenly Gondola scenic ride and a snow tubing hill. After your day out skiing, head over to The Shops at Heavenly Village, where you will find a handful of specialty shops, a few restaurants, a movie theater, and a seasonal ice rink. This is a really gorgeous mountain themed shopping area that really is fun to visit regardless of whether or not you are skiing.
36. Plan a fun filled day at the Grove, L.A.’s best shopping destination
L.A.’s unique outdoor shopping center, The Grove, features upscale shopping, beautiful animated fountains, and an antique trolley which takes passengers to the nearby Farmers Market (100+ grocers make up the historic Original Farmer’s Market, established in 1932). Check out the full list of merchants.
37. Spend the day relaxing at Newport Beach
Newport is a particularly scenic area of Orange county, known for its’ beautiful beaches, cruises, and home to gorgeous Balboa Island. Crystal Cove State Beach is particularly stunning. After your day out at the beach, head over to Fashion Island, a beautiful open air shopping center. This is my favorite outdoor mall in the L.A. region – so gorgeous!
38. Take a surfing lesson in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach, aka “Surf Capital of the World,” is a great place to watch surfing competitions and take in the views of surfers from the pier. However, if you feel like a more hands on approach, you can sign up for a lesson of your own. There are numerous options, although Banzai is particularly well regarded in the area. Personally, I would never surf after seeing all the scary shark attacks. I appreciate watching people who are brave and athletic enough to ride the waves!
39. Visit one of the country’s best zoos
While it is one of the country’s pricest zoos, the San Diego Zoo is fortunately also one of the best. This large zoo is most famous for being one of the few to house panda bears, but there are many other fabulous exhibits, as well as a scenic tram ride and narrated guided bus tour. The sightseeing is really incredible here – just strolling around the zoo and enjoying the beautiful landscaping and surrounding views is an activity in and of itself. The hilly terrain means you will get in a great workout so come prepared! Good news for fitness buffs!
40. Visit the Olympic Museum at Squaw Valley
The Olympic Museum located at Squaw Valley’s High Camp is a space dedicated to the 1960 Winter Olympics held in the area. Various memorabilia, film clips, and news articles are presented. Admission is free with your scenic tram ride.
