If you’re planning a trip to California, it makes sense to fly to Los Angeles International Airport, rent a car and tour the southern part of the state before venturing north.
Southern California
Book a room for a couple nights at a Los Angeles hotel that fits your budget. If you want a hotel to make you feel like a celebrity, you cannot beat the Millennium Biltmore Hotel Los Angeles, a truly luxurious and historic establishment in the heart of town.
With your L.A. hotel as your home base, spend the next few days driving around the area and soaking in the sights. For families, a trip south to the San Diego Wild Animal Park and Zoo offers plenty of exciting animal encounters. Be sure to spend several hours at Universal Studios, featuring the new Transformers 3D ride and that longtime favorite, the Tram Tour. Aboard Universal’s tram you’ll take in a whole host of impressive special effects demonstrations. See downtown L.A.’s attractions, too, including the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Dolby Theatre, where the Oscars are handed out each year.
Anaheim, of course, is home to Disneyland – always worth a day or two, especially for families with young children. Disneyland now has two theme parks: the original Magic Kingdom, home to rides like “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “It’s a Small World,” and the adjacent California Adventure, with rides based on movies like “The Little Mermaid” and “Cars.”
For the classic California beach experience, head to Santa Monica for a swim in the Pacific and a ride on the Ferris wheel, located on the Santa Monica Pier.
While you’re in Southern California, find an In-N-Out Burger. This California fast food chain is a local favorite for its mouthwatering hamburger concoctions.
Venturing North: Monterey, San Francisco and Yosemite
After sunning yourself in SoCal, hop aboard your rental car and drive five hours north, along the Pacific, to Monterey. During your day there you can check out the world-class aquarium, as well as Cannery Row – which author John Steinbeck made famous – and Fisherman’s Wharf. Pebbles Beach is a must-stop for golfers, too. And you can cap off the day by staying at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, with its breathtaking ocean views.
The next morning, hop back in that rental car and drive two hours north to San Francisco, one of the most beautiful cities on earth. There you can rent bikes and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge, take the Alcatraz Ferry out to “the Rock,” and visit the Presidio, a historic military outpost. And, of course, you simply must ride the cable cars to your heart’s content. Gary Danko Restaurant, on North Point Street, offers a stunning five-star dining experience. If you make your reservation months in advance, you will be all set.
Enjoy a night at a San Francisco hotel. Again, find a place within your budget. And if your budget allows, the Omni San Francisco Hotel on California Street offers the ultimate in amenities.
The next morning, take the four-hour drive east to the magnificent Yosemite National Park. A guided bus tour, one that takes in the majestic Yosemite Falls, might be the most convenient way to see the park. A night at a grand Yosemite lodge is an experience to savor, too. Or, to save money, try the Best Western Yosemite. With its rockwork and its location at the foot of a hill, this hotel is like no other Best Western anywhere.
After a night at Yosemite, it is time to return to San Francisco, give the rental car back and head home.
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’][/author_image] [author_info]Kevin Caldwell is a creative writer for San Francisco Hotel Guides. Kevin enjoys traveling and writing about his experiences. Connect with Kevin on Google+ to read more of his work.[/author_info] [/author]
