Enter the magical world of Disneyland Resort and experience the rides, shows, and attractions that make it the happiest place on earth. Get a picture with your kids' favorite Disney characters and make memories that will last forever.
Explore the famous Universal Studios Hollywood and step into the movies. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Studio Tour, there are so many things to do that the entire family can enjoy. Don’t forget to take a picture with your favorite movie characters!
The San Diego Zoo is one of the best zoos in the world and offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. With over 3,700 animals and 650 species, you will be amazed by the diversity of wildlife from all over the world. Don't miss the Giant Pandas, an endangered species that can only be found in a few countries.
Get ready for a day filled with adventure, fun, and creativity at the Legoland California Resort. From roller coasters to Lego-themed lands, there’s something for every member of the family. The water park is perfect for cooling off on a warm day!
The Santa Monica Pier is a landmark and popular attraction located in Santa Monica. It’s known for its amusement park, beautiful beach, and various attractions for tourists and locals to enjoy. Take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel or have a seafood meal while enjoying beautiful ocean views.
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a must-visit attraction for animal and plant lovers. At this zoo, you will find over 1,400 animals, including koalas, chimpanzees, and elephants, as well as over 800 plant species. Don't forget to take the botanical garden tour to see some rare and exotic plants.
Knott's Berry Farm is a perfect mix of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious food. There are plenty of rides for kids of all ages, including Camp Snoopy, a themed land for kids with more than 30 attractions. And you can't leave Knott's Berry Farm without trying their world-famous Boysenberry pie!
The Griffith Observatory is a free public observatory with a planetarium and space and science-related exhibits. Even if you’re not interested in space and science, the views of the city from the Griffith Observatory are stunning. Visit during a clear day and you can see as far as the Pacific Ocean.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is home to over 35,000 creatures representing over 550 species. Walkthrough the Kelp Forest exhibit, watch the sea otters play, and get up close to a great white shark (through the safety of glass, of course). Don't miss the jellyfish, some of the most mesmerizing creatures in the ocean.
Yosemite National Park is one of the most visited parks in the United States with its granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, giant sequoia groves, and abundant wildlife. Take a guided tour or explore Yosemite Valley on your own for a day full of adventure and natural beauty that your family will never forget.
Alcatraz Island is a must-see landmark in San Francisco Bay. Once a federal prison, it's now a National Park known for its history, scenic beauty, and bird colonies. Take the ferry from Pier 33 and take the self-guided audio tour, which will take you through the cell blocks and give you a glimpse of what life was like on the island.
Fisherman's Wharf is a touristy but fun attraction in San Francisco. Enjoy a seafood meal while watching the sea lions in Pier 39, then take a stroll down the street and explore the shops, historic ships, and museums. Don't forget to try some sourdough bread, a San Francisco specialty!
Golden Gate Park is a large city park famous for its winding paths, scenic trails, and variety of gardens and museums. Rent a bike and explore the park on wheels, then visit the De Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences, two world-class museums located within the park.
Muir Woods National Monument is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco. Walkthrough the towering redwoods, some of which are over 1,000 years old, and listen to the sounds of nature. The park has hiking trails suitable for all levels, including a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk.
California is a large state, so you'll need to prepare for some long drives between destinations. It's best to rent a car, which will give you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Plan for extra travel time during rush hour and check for parking availability in advance, especially in crowded areas like San Francisco. The estimated travel cost for gas and tolls for this itinerary is around $500.
If you have more time, consider adding a beach day in Malibu or exploring the wine country in Napa Valley. If you have less time, you can skip some of the attractions or combine two activities in one day, depending on your family's interests. Make sure to book tickets in advance for popular attractions like Disneyland and Alcatraz Island to avoid long lines.
California has many airports, but the main ones are Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and San Diego International Airport (SAN). LAX and SFO are both international airports, while SAN mostly serves domestic flights. LAX and SFO are both around 30 minutes from their respective city centers, while SAN is only 10 minutes away from downtown San Diego.