I love to travel. I love discovering what makes a place special and different, finding experiences you can only have in that one place. As much as I enjoy seeing the world, I also love exploring my home state. There is so much to discover and so many things that are unique to this sunny corner of the globe. There are also numerous ways to explore it, including these bucket-list-worthy, one-of-a-kind experiences in Southern California.
The nature of hot air balloon flights - drifting where the wind takes them - makes each one unique, but flying over the vineyards, citrus groves, wineries, and estates of Temecula Valley wine country is an unforgettable experience. The cherry on top? Your flight ends with a celebration toast of your choice - sparkling wine, cider, or mimosa!
This 2-hour tour explores the amazing backroads and protected, rugged interior of Catalina Island that few people see. Search for wildlife, including the resident herd of bison, and get a glimpse of one of the island’s original Native American gathering sites.
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This 2-hour tour explores the amazing backroads and protected, rugged interior of Catalina Island that few people see. Search for wildlife, including the resident herd of bison, and get a glimpse of one of the island’s original Native American gathering sites.
Spend two hours swimming with sea lions and other marine life while exploring spectacular sea caves and underwater rock formations in the stunning La Jolla Cove. Kids and adults alike can enjoy a fun and safe adventure with a guide nearby to navigate to the best spots and point out sea life.
No need to head to the Mediterranean when you can set sail on a dreamy luxury charter in the Santa Monica Bay. Enjoy stunning views of the Venice boardwalk, Santa Monica pier, and Malibu’s scenic mountains while enjoying gourmet hors d’oeuvres and Rosé.
The world’s largest rotating tram car ascends nearly 6,000 feet from the desert floor in Palm Springs to the cool climate and pristine wilderness of the San Jacinto Mountains, all the while enjoying unparalleled views of the desert, canyon, mountains, and more. At the top, you have the option to hike, dine, and explore at Mountain Station.
With electric assist, adventurers of every level can enjoy guided exploration of Malibu’s scenic mountain trails. Enjoy getting up close and personal with Southern California’s beautiful flora and fauna, marvel at beautiful peaks and cool rock formations, and take in expansive views of the Malibu coast.
See the Southern California coast and beautiful Topanga Canyon as you have never seen them before. Soar above the Hollywood Hills, unique coastline, scenic beach communities, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach boardwalk, Santa Monica Mountains, and more.
These are just a few ways to enjoy some one-of-a-kind Southern California magic. Have you experienced any of these oh-so-SoCal adventures? What would you add to this list? We would love to hear from you in the comments!
One of the most enjoyable fall activities is visiting a pumpkin patch. The best pumpkin patches in Northern California include rows of pumpkins (of course), plus fun activities such as a corn maze, face painting, pony rides, and games. Many of these pumpkin patches also sell food during big weekend events. If you’ve been searching, “pumpkin patches near me” look no further– there’s likely a pumpkin patch (or three) near you on this list. For those living in one of NorCal’s cities, there are several pumpkin patches near Sacramento and San Jose, plus many others throughout the state. Go with a group of friends, bring your little ones, and have a fun and memorable day at one of these 14 Northern California pumpkin patches.
Open daily beginning September 30, Nash Ranch Pumpkin Patch is a sprawling 20-acre ranch where you can pick your perfect Halloween pumpkins. Weekends come alive with a petting zoo, a 3-mile corn maze, train rides, and more. Don't miss the haunted corn maze and spooky haunted house. Visit the website for more details and updates on the current season as made available.
Country Pumpkins in Orland boasts a five-acre pumpkin patch, a ten-acre corn maze, a friendly petting zoo, and an exciting hay pyramid with a slide. While the kids explore, make sure to wander through the country store where you can buy local food products, nuts, and other treats. You can enjoy the farm's attractions daily from October 1 through October 31.
Enjoy a unique pumpkin-picking experience and navigate the world record corn maze at Cool Pumpkin Patch. The opening date in September is yet to be confirmed, but the fun continues until October 31. This pumpkin patch near Sacramento is one you don't want to miss!
Established in 1973, Bishop's Pumpkin Farm is a cherished family-run destination. In addition to the sprawling Bay area pumpkin patch, the farm offers an array of fall farm games for the whole family. Enjoy a merry-go-round, explore the corn maze, and get up close with adorable farm animals at the petting zoo. And when it's time to choose your pumpkin, you'll be in awe of the world's largest U-pick field. Don't forget to visit the beautiful flower garden, a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Bishop's is open daily from September 7 to November 11.
Opening sometime in mid-September (check website for updates as available), this pumpkin farm in Placer County promises a bigger and better experience than ever. Alongside its pumpkin patch, the farm offers a corn maze, numerous photo opportunities, and a mini-pumpkin sling shot, making it an ideal spot for fall family outings.
If you're seeking pumpkin patches near Sacramento, Dave's Pumpkin Patch on the Vierra Farms property in West Sacramento is a must-visit. The patch features a pumpkin wonderland, corn maze adventures, hayrides, and even entertaining pig races. Starting September 21, it's open daily and offers a delicious assortment of food, including hot sandwiches, hamburgers, waffles, and the famous apple cider cinnamon donuts. Please note that Dave's Pumpkin Patch accepts cash or check payments only.
Starting its fall season on September 28, Fog Willow Farms offers a delightful countryside experience with a pumpkin patch and family-friendly activities. Spanning nine acres, this farm is perfect for little ones, as it skips the scary Halloween decor, focusing instead on fun and "edu-tainment."
8. Petaluma Pumpkin Patch and Amazing Corn Maze– Petaluma
Kick off your fall season at Petaluma Pumpkin Patch, opening its doors on September 20 for its 32nd season. This beloved spot offers homegrown pumpkins that you can pick right from the field. Explore the Amazing Corn Maze, which has earned a top-9 spot in the world according to Readers Digest. From pony rides to face-painting, there's fun for all ages.
Located in the East Bay Area suburb of Brentwood, Smith Family Farm's Pumpkin Harvest returns with live entertainment, fall art, barnyard animal encounters, and pumpkin-picking fun. The patch opens daily starting September 28.
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10. ABC Tree Farms & Pick of the Patch Pumpkins–Fremont
Located at the Fremont Hub Shopping Center, this lively pumpkin patch welcomes visitors during the season, when kids will have a blast on all the inflatable structures, while you'll have plenty of time to choose your pumpkins and savor the fall atmosphere. Check the website for updates for this year's dates as available.
G&M Farms in Livermore opens its pumpkin patch and corn maze seasonally from Wednesday to Sunday. Weekends bring extra excitement with hayrides, pedal carts, pony rides, and delightful treats like mini donuts and Kettle Corn. Check the website for updates as available on this season's dates.
Explore the pumpkin field, enjoy hayrides, train rides, pony rides, and more at Pastorino's Pumpkin Farm. Open during the month of October, all the exciting attractions come to life.
Beloved Lemos Farm is open during the fall season offering pumpkin picking and fun activities. Check the website for the current season's operating hours and to secure your tickets for an unforgettable day. You may also be able to get tickets at the gate.
Right off Highway 1, Farmer John's Pumpkin Farm has a warm, family-friendly vibe. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are also welcome, making it a fantastic outing for the whole family. Check the farm's Facebook page for updates on this season's dates open.
These 14 best pumpkin patches in Northern California not only promise rows of pumpkins but also a fun fall activity. So make a day of it, and visit one of these family-friendly pumpkin patches. We love this fall activity!
Northern California is already a paradise, but our state becomes absolutely idyllic in the summer. It’s not too hot and we have tons of breathtaking natural beauty and endless things to do during the summer. We’ve compelled a list of the 15 best Northern California summer activities to get you started on a wonderful summer adventure. Whether you live here or are visiting, you’ll find a treasure trove of amazing experiences right here. Welcome to the best things to do this summer in Northern California.
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Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Northern California
When it comes to summertime in Northern California, there are so many exciting cities and darling small towns to explore. If you want local art, astounding entertainment, natural beauty, delicious food, and vibrant culture, these are three of the best summer vacation destinations in Northern California for all of that and so much more.
Popularity: Extremely popular. People flock from all over the world to see this city.
Need To Know: Many hills are quite steep. Be sure to use your parking brake!
The ultimate summer destination in Northern California is San Francisco. With a long and deep history, the most vibrant art scenes in the country, and a smorgasbord of cultural influences set in gorgeous rolling hills and coastal views, you will never be bored here! Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Chinatown…the list of splendid experiences goes on and on. This city is one of the most fun things to do in Northern California in summer.
Popularity: This charming small town is quite mellow and uncrowded.
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Need To Know: Eureka is a Greek expression that means "I have found it!"
Eureka is one of the most eclectic and unique towns you’ll ever see. It embodies Northern California culture with intriguing architecture like the Carson Mansion and is the gateway to the Redwoods. With gorgeous trees, stunning coastlines, creative culinary options, and tons of cute and funky little shops, you will fall in love with Eureka. It’s a creative utopia with charm around every corner.
Popularity: This is a hidden gem that can get a bit busy on weekends.
Need To Know: While you're here, you don't need to say the whole name. Just call it Carmel.
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Carmel is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful small towns in the country. There’s a vast variety of architecture from European cottages to Spanish mission styles to one-of-a-kind creative constructions. Everywhere you look there’s a cornucopia of beautiful details and one of the most pristine beaches in the state is here. It has a culinary scene like no other and you’ll find more charming shops than you can count. Coming here with your partner is one of the most romantic things to do in Northern California in summer.
Best Lakes To Visit In Northern California This Summer
While we have endless miles of splendid coastline we also have some scintillating lakes and lovely rivers that are just as worth seeing. The Northern California landscape will take your breath away when you see these beautiful places. A road trip to these locations is one of the best family things to do in Northern California in summer. Come have some freshwater fun at the best lakes in Northern California.
Popularity: While Lake Tahoe is quite famous, it's so big that you won't be crowded.
Need To Know: There are various fishing and pet restrictions, so check with official sources for the area you plan to visit.
Of course, we have to mention Lake Tahoe when we’re talking about lakes in Northern California. This massive lake is so achingly beautiful with pristine, clear water, a verdant coastline, and rugged mountains. Whether you want to swim, kayak, fish, boat, or just sit and take in the mesmerizing views, this is a bucket list destination in Northern California that you must see at least once in your life. El Dorado Beach is one of the topmost destinations at Lake Tahoe.
Popularity: This is a refreshingly uncrowded lake where you'll have peace and quiet.
Need To Know: This is the oldest lake in the country at 2.5 million years old.
Whoever named this lake had an easy decision to make. Clearly, it had to be called Clear Lake. This 68-square-mile lake is the largest freshwater lake on Earth and the waters are strikingly clear. It’s surrounded by fantastic hiking trails and it’s a wonderful location for spotting wildlife, especially if you’re into birding. As one of the best free things to do in Northern California in summer, you need to put this lake on your vacation list.
Popularity: This secluded lake is a well-kept secret.
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Need To Know: This is a reservoir that was formed in 1914 when a dam was built on the Feather River.
While this is a man-made reservoir rather than a natural lake, Lake Almanor is no less gorgeous and worth visiting than the other lakes listed here. It is surrounded by lush forests and you’d never know that this lake powers nearby communities with hydrothermal energy. It’s a hidden gem that’s quiet and peaceful and there are 52 miles of coastline to enjoy.
Parks To Visit In Northern California This Summer
Northern California is a haven for sublime parklands that are so scenic and photogenic. Taking a leisurely drive, a weekend trip, or camping for days are all wonderful ways to enjoy these stellar places. They’re some of the best cheap things to do in Northern California in summer and you’ll make memories that you’ll savor for decades. Come take a look that the best parks to visit in Northern California this summer.
Popularity: While this area is quite popular, it's not generally crowded, especially on weekdays.
Need To Know: This park is actually four parks in one.
The Redwood National and State Parks area is the kind of place where you’ll find yourself in awe, trying to find words to describe just how majestic and achingly beautiful it is. The vast, towering trees are a marvel to behold These old-growth forests cause one to feel a true reverence for nature. Do not pass up the chance to experience this place.
Popularity: This is quite a popular place for scenic drives.
Need To Know: Due to riptides and strong currents, do not swim at the beaches in this area.
As one of the most picturesque places in Northern California, Sonoma Coast State Park is quite literally breathtaking. Seeing the forces of nature at work as rushing waves crash into rugged cliffs will truly make you respect the power of Mother Nature. While the drive is rather scenic, stop and have a picnic on the cliffs or on one of the beaches. These waves are not for swimming, but the views are incredible.
Popularity: While extremely popular, there is so much space that you can easily find secluded places.
Need To Know: There is vast, rugged wilderness here. If camping, let someone know where you will be.
There are places where words like majestic, breathtaking, and stunning can’t effectively convey what your senses experience when you’re there. The Shasta-Trinity National Forest is such a place, with primal wilderness and the massive Mt. Shasta demanding your attention. It’s no wonder that so many legends were formed over the years about this place. You owe it to yourself to see it with your own eyes.
Best Free Summer Activities In Northern California
While California can be quite expensive, luckily there is so much to do here that there are myriad free things to do in Northern California in summer. So many places of natural beauty don’t cost a dime and there is no shortage of intriguing museums that have free days. So, keep your wallet in your pocket and take advantage of these free summer activities in Northern California.
Popularity: This is an extremely popular local hangout, but it's not cramped.
Need To Know: This 1,017-acre park was once an area of sand dunes.
While San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the country, Golden Gate Park is absolutely free to visit and there is so much to see and do. The Conservatory of Flowers is free on the first Tuesday of every month. The Queen Wilhemina Garden with its lovely windmill and flowers is free to walk. There are so many gorgeous paths to stroll and free sporting activities all over the park.
Popularity: This place is fairly popular, but not likely to be crowded.
Need To Know: John Muir was a co-founder of the Sierra Club and helped found the National Park Service.
John Muir is a revered historical figure in Northern California. Several parks and other places are named after him and his home and gravesite can be toured here at the John Muir Historic Site. Emigrating from Scotland, John Muir fell in love with the natural places here and devotes his life to preserving them and he is why we have national parks at all. Come learn about his life and legacy.
Popularity: Thousands visit here every year, and you'll see why when you get here.
Need To Know: Admission is free, but photography requires a permit.
With over 4,000 rose shrubs in 189 varieties on a sprawling 5.5 acres, the Municipal Rose Garden in San Jose is a treat for the senses. Stroll along the paths in this gorgeous garden and literally take time to smell the roses. Summertime is a splendid time to see those beautiful blooms in all their glory.
Best Summer Events And Festivals In Northern California
Summer in Northern California is replete with fantastic festivals of all kinds. Culinary events, music festivals, and festivals that celebrate nature all make for a great time. Hanging out with the friendly locals is one of the best things about these events. You're sure to make new friends here. Whatever you’re into, there’s an experience to enjoy. Here are three of the best summer events and festivals in Northern California.
Popularity: This is one of the largest music festivals in Northern California.
Need To Know: This event will take place July 4-7, 2024.
The High Sierra Music Festival is one of the premiere music festivals in Northern California. Besides the amazing lineup, there are workshops, family activities, and more. The 2024 lineup includes bands like Primus, Ziggy Marley, and an endearing and funny local gem you have to see named Steve Poltz.
Popularity: This is a small, intimate local festival that you will adore.
Need To Know: This event will take place June 8 & 9, 2024, and it's free!
If you love lavender, then you must attend this lovely local festival where you can harvest lavender, enjoy lavender ice cream, listen to live music, taste local wines, make crafts, and more. The Cache Creek Lavender Festival is perfect for bringing the whole family and enjoying a truly charming experience.
Popularity: This is more of a local event and you'll be able to "attend" from all over town if you just want to see the balloons.
Need To Know: This event will take place July 13 & 14, 2024.
The Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic is a fun summer festival where 30 colorful hot air balloons take to the skies and you can even ride in one! Food and craft booths are on-site and there’s a play area for the little ones. The balloons launch around 6:30 am, so wake up bright and early to get here and take in the sights. Getting to see the stunning landscape of Sonoma County from the sky is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Have you taken part in any of these best things to do in Northern California in summer? Which are your favorites? Let us know all about your experiences in the comments as well as other favorites of yours. This guide will get you started on exploring the best that Northern California has to offer and you’re sure to find even more wonderful experiences along the way. If you want to explore more summer fun, hop in the car and get on your way to some more fun summer adventures in Northern California:
