Here Are 10 Unique Day Trips In Southern California That Are Bucket-List-Worthy
It’s that time of year when we’re all getting a little antsy for a vacation. If you aren’t able to pack your bags and leave for an out-of-town adventure, then take a look at all of these splendid day trips hiding right here in Southern California that will make you feel like you’re on a mini getaway. We’ve put together an incredible list of unique day trips in Southern California that will take you from the perfect blue skies of San Diego to the heated streets of San Bernardino. These are some day trips from Riverside and lots more. Get ready to knock a few things off of your Southern California bucket list, friends. There’s nothing like this list of fun and excitement in the heart of California’s most beautiful region! Did your favorite Southern California experience make the list? Let us know!
One of the best day trips in Southern California is in a place you could explore for an entire weekend and never run out of things to do. At Balboa Park you'll find museums, hiking trails, theatres, a zoo, and even botanical gardens. The list of adventures at this urban park goes on and on, so make sure you take some time to embrace this beautiful destination in the heart of San Diego.
If you love the idea of being surrounded by the smell of citrus, then make sure you take a day trip to California Citrus State Historic Park. Your senses will be dazzled by the smell of citrus trees in every direction. Plus, you'll even get to sample some of this delicious fruit at peak season.
Who knew this desert oasis existed in Southern California!? You'll be mesmerized by the beauty of Whitewater Preserve, a 2,800-acre nature preserve loaded with hiking trails, streams, ponds, and even mountains. It's the kind of place you want to head to when you're in need of an escape.
Take a relaxing stroll around the Preserve in this beautiful 4K video:
When you take a tour of Calico Ghost Town you'll step back in time to the 1800s. This old mining town is well preserved and has been completely restored in order to capture the look and feel of its original condition.
Take in the splendor of Cabrillo National Monument, located in San Diego for a perfect day of exploring in the SoCal sun. You'll find hiking trails, an old lighthouse, and some fascinating history that will make you appreciate the setting even more.
Located in Los Angeles County in the town of Agua Dulce, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning rock formations within Vasquez Rocks Natural Area that have been around for over 25 million years.
This beautiful video highlights some of the most beautiful aspects of the area:
If you're seeking a relaxing trip to a mountain town that also offers a lakeside vibe then Crestline is the place to be. Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, this is the perfect getaway for the whole family to enjoy.
This spectacular preserve in SoCal known as the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve offers over 9,000 acres of gorgeous land to explore. Whether you love hiking and walking trails, scenic picnic areas or vernal pools, this is an epic spot that offers a little something for everyone.
Sometimes you just need to head to a peaceful, charming and quaint side of SoCal and get away from the city. Oak Glen Village is the perfect escape for a day trip in SoCal's beautiful farm country in a cozy little village where you'll find local shops, boutiques and diners.
How about a day trip via train? Amtrak offers a scenic route from San Luis Obispo to San Diego on the relaxing Pacific Surfliner. Take the entire route, or just select your favorite cities and explore each location on foot. It's a splendid way to see SoCal with a new set of eyes.
Do you have any favorite spots on this list of unique day trips in Southern California? Or do you adore them all and have a hard time picking a favorite? If you love taking SoCal adventures as much as I do, then you might want to check out this road trip in Southern California that covers some of our most charming small towns.
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