California Road Trips

California BONUS INSERT FROM

GET INSPIRED

BONUS MUSIC PLAYLIST details on page 5

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SUMMER 2014 – SUMMER 2015

ROAD TRIPS

FIND YOUR DREAM VACATION WITH 12 ULTIMATE DRIVES

EXCLUSIVELY PRODUCED FOR

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Š2014 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 14-ADV-14586

BEAUTIFUL

BUT BIZARRE

Come marvel at the mansion built by Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester Rifle fortune. Its beauty will

leave you spellbound. 160 Rooms of Victorian craftsmanship and ingenious inventions. But in the details, you see patterns of eccentric behavior. A Tiffany window... with a spiderweb design. A dramatic staircase... leading to the ceiling. Its bizarre twists and turns will leave you wondering... was this her dream house, or her worst nightmare?

www.WinchesterMysteryHouse.com 525 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128 • 408.247.2101

Save $3 off each ticket with the online discount code: SUNSET

Put everyday life in the rearview mirror and go winding along Highway 1.

It’s time to come to Monterey.

SeeMonterey.com BIG SUR | CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA | CARMEL VALLEY | DEL REY OAKS | MARINA | MONTEREY | MOSS LANDING PACIFIC GROVE | PEBBLE BEACH | SALINAS | SALINAS VALLEY | SAND CITY | SEASIDE

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | CONTENTS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

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20 14

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6 FOLLOW 12 EXCLUSIVE ITINERARIES TO DISCOVER THE BEST OF CALIFORNIA California’s 12 tourism regions • 10-stop driving tours SHASTA CASCADE

• Insider’s tips • Local finds • Bonus Road Trips playlist

N O RTH COAST

• Plus top music festivals • GOLD COUNT RY

Includes mileages & drive times

HIGH SIE R R A

SA N F R ANCIS CO BAY AREA

LOS ANGELES COU N T Y ORAN GE COU N T Y

D E SE RTS IN LA N D E M PIR E

SAN D IE GO COU N T Y

More ideas, information, and resources at visitcalifornia.com ON THE COVER Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Sara

Bareilles near the iconic Hollywood sign. Hear Sara on our music playlist at visitcalifornia.com/playlist.

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visitcalifornia.com

4 C ALIFORNIA MAP & MILEAGE CHART Find your way around the state, plus details on California Welcome Centers 6 N ORTH COAST: GO WILD Redwoods soar and waves crash along the state’s northwest corner 8 V OLCANOES TO THE SEA Take this epic drive from the snowy peaks west to the Pacific Ocean 10 C LASSIC WINE COUNTRY Sample award-winning vintages and farm-to-table foods 12 R ETRACE THE 49ER GOLD RUSH Explore Mother Lode towns for food, wine, and adventure 14 C LASSIC COAST DRIVE Experience one of the world’s most unforgettable road trips 16 C RUISE THE HEARTLAND Sample the best of the fertile Central Valley on Highway 99

CENTRAL VA LLE Y CENTRAL COAST

CONTENTS

18 M OUNTAIN MAJESTY Visit Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and giant sequoias on this showstopper drive 20 T HE PULSE OF CALIFORNIA Follow a true classic, Highway 101, from L.A. to the city by the bay 22 B EACH TOWNS & BIG THRILLS Play all day on sunny SoCal sand and at your favorite theme parks 24 R OUTE 66: THE MOTHER ROAD Capture the spirit of the California dream on the ultimate route west 26 C ALIFORNIA’S BIG WOW Pull over and gape at mega mountains and the state’s biggest vistas 28 B EST OF THE DESERTS Climb dunes and gaze up at countless stars on an unforgettable trip

T:6.25”

BIG FUN BUILT HERE. LEGOLAND® California Resort has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including the incredible LEGO ® Legends of CHIMA™ Water Park presented

by Cartoon Network™.

T:4.5”

Located in Carlsbad off I-5, LEGOLAND California is open daily during spring break, summer and select holiday periods and is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays during select periods. Water Park is open seasonally. Prices, times and schedules subject to change without notice.

Visit LEGOLAND.com or call 877-LEGOLAND (534-6526) for details.

LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2014 The LEGO Group. LEGOLAND AND SEA LIFE ARE A PART OF THE MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS GROUP. TM and ®2014 Cartoon Network. A Time Warner Company.

All rights reserved.

THE LEGO MOVIE ©The LEGO Group & Warner Bros Entertainment Inc. All rights reserved.

LEGOLAND® California Resort

LEGOLAND® Hotel

THE LEGO MOVIE EXPERIENCE®

SEA LIFE® Aquarium

3-4-2014 12:46 PM

from

by

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Fonts & Images Art Director Copywriter Account Mgr Studio Artist Proofreader

Notes

A SEA OF

surprises

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D Gray D GRAY C Yaptinchay A Lapuz L Beliz

Fonts (9.74%), SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration is sure to wow the Gill Sans (Regular , Book, Bold, Heavy), Triplex white-vflKoO81_.psd entire family with a yearlong Sea of Surprises. ™ (Extrabold), Minion Pro (Regular), Helvetica 17.67%), tripadvisor.eps with the sea and be inspired

by WP.r1.psd our NeueConnect (57 Condensed) LLCR _CHIMA 31.31%), biggest star, Shamu.® Get up-close andChimaSplat_date.psd personal Images ppi; 28.22%), and with dolphins, beluga whales, penguins 1576_BrickWall_yellow_Perfekt.psd (CMYK; (2.23%) other amazing animals. Plus,aiSeaWorld® 363 ppi; 82.6%), LLCR_8mm flag_small San Diego opens an all-new immersive “hands-in” logo_blk wht sun.ai (100%), The LEGO Inks experience, Explorer’s Reef.™ It’s an exploratory Movie KEY VISUAL_HORIZ_MED_r3.psd you’ll just have to sea to believe.

(CMYK;adventure 2016 ppi; 14.88%), 2014_SEALIFE_Jelly Disco_Layers_r3.psd (CMYK; 2432 ppi, 2433 ppi; 12.33%, 12.33%), Lego Hotel Front Entrance_2193-Edit_CMYK.psd (CMYK; 520 ppi, 520 ppi; 13.83%, 13.83%), twitter-bird-lightbgs.eps (8.03%, 8.08%), f_logo copy.eps

© 2014 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | MAP & RESOURCES

676 369

122

147

341

354 368 371

366 322

368

213 375

850 365 401

585 690 302

331 171

340 187

139

438 277

233

Bishop

374

227

-

618

337

267 350 257 301

400 272

Crescent City

281

631

618

-

549 729 470 764 834

Fresno

471

110

337

549

Los Angeles

689 112

Monterey

457

245 350 470 154

Ontario

724

147

257

764 254

37

382

-

Palm Springs

676

216

301

834 324 107

451

71

Redding

144

438 400 213

Sacramento

302 277 272

San Diego

810

233 354 850 340 121

465

114

137 666 509

San Francisco

358

294 368 365 187

382

116

416

511

216

87

502

-

48 232

337

San José

419

243 371

151

341

72

375 445 247

118

461

48

-

186

291 102

San Luis Obispo

571

122

366 585 139

201

145

238 308 430 300 325

232

186

-

106 283

Santa Barbara

676

147

322 690 255

132 202 535

337

291

106

Santa Rosa

369

341

368 302

55

102

283 388

-

154

254 324

-

321

37 107

321

-

382 451

267 729 219

375

401

Ontario

219

341 201

95 428

316 187

465

116

72

145

250 170

71

580 420

114

416

375

238

132 463

-

660 489 137

511

445 308

202 533

666 216

247 430

535 227

509

118

-

545 316

580 660

385 187

420 489 160

170 463 533 227

160

-

-

400 216 98

549

87

502 461

300 400 325

CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERSSM visitcalifornia.com/cwc The state has Welcome Centers to assist you when you’re on the road.

SM

Arcata (North Coast) 1635 Heindon Rd.; 707/822-3619 Yreka (Shasta Cascade) #2 Hwy. 96; 530/475-3814 Anderson (Shasta Cascade) 1699 Hwy. 273; 530/365-1180 Auburn (Gold Country) 1103 High St., Ste. 150; 530/887-2111 El Dorado Hills (Gold Country) 2085 Vine St., Ste. 105; 916/358-3700 Santa Rosa (San Francisco Bay Area) 9 Fourth St.; 800/404-7673 San Francisco (San Francisco Bay Area) PIER 39, #B12, 2nd Level; 415/981-1280 San Mateo (San Francisco Bay Area) 60 31st Ave.; 650/578-8033 Truckee (High Sierra) 10065 Donner Pass Rd.; 530/587-2757 Mammoth Lakes (High Sierra) 2510 Main St (SR 203); 760/924-5500 Merced (Central Valley) 710 W. 16th St.; 209/724-8104 Salinas (Central Coast) 1213 N. Davis Rd.; 831/757-8687 Pismo Beach (Central Coast) 333 Five Cities Dr., Ste. 100; 805/773-7924 Oxnard (Central Coast) 2786 Seaglass Way, #5105; 805/988-0717 Barstow (Deserts) 2796 Tanger Way, Ste. 100; 760/253-4782 Yucca Valley (Deserts) 56711 Twentynine Palms Hwy.; 760/365-5464 Buena Park (Orange County) 6601 Beach Blvd.; 714/523-3441 Oceanside (San Diego County) 928 N. Coast Hwy.; 760/721-1101 Alpine (San Diego County) 5005 Willows Rd., Ste. H110; 619/445-0180

Road Trips is produced by Sunset Publishing, doing business as California Travel Media, for Visit California.

Published at no expense to taxpayers. Advertising and editorial content that appears in this publication does not constitute an endorsement of products or services by Visit California or the State of California. Information, including prices, dates, hours, and websites, was correct at publication time but may be subject to change without notice. For a free official state visitor’s guide, go to visitcalifornia.com or call 800/GO-CALIF (800/462-2543).

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© Copyright 2014 Visit California. All rights reserved.

Editor Harriot Manley Art Director Tonya Weiland Sutfin Writers Matt Jaffe, Matt Katz, Ken McAlpine, Molly Watson Maps Karen Minot Production Manager Amy Mackey Associate Director RJ Smith Cover Photo Myles McGuiness

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visitcalifornia.com

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VISIT CALIFORNIA President/CEO Caroline Beteta VP/Marketing Lynn Carpenter Schumann Content Manager Gwynne Spann Content Coordinator Lucas Himovitz

Primary Highway Secondary Highway California Highway Interstate Highway U.S. Highway State Capital

NF NM NP NRA NS SP

255 234

382

171

234 428

151

545 385 121

331

95 250

302 810

Santa Rosa

245 147 216

San Diego

112

Sacramento

110

Redding

Los Angeles

631

Palm Springs

Fresno

689 457 724 676 144

227

Monterey

Crescent City

471

-

-

Bakersfield

281

577

Alturas

577 374

Bakersfield

Alturas

SUNSET PUBLISHING 80 Willow Rd., Menlo Park, CA 94025; 650/321-3600 Advertising inquiries: 650/324-5631; fax 650/322-1043 Advertising Director Melinda Sheehan

Santa Barbara

San Luis Obispo 571

San Francisco

358 419 294 243

Bishop

MILEAGE CHART

San José

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

California Welcome CenterSM National Forest National Monument National Park National Recreation Area National Seashore State Park

98

216 549

-

55

388

-

TRAVEL RESOURCES

Big Sur

PLAN YOUR BEST CALIFORNIA ROAD TRIP These 12 ready-to-roll itineraries bring you the best of California—iconic destinations, hidden gems, outdoor wonders, and small-town surprises.

Use this guide and other free resources to start planning now.

BEFORE YOU GO

ON THE ROAD California Welcome CentersSM Look for the traveling bear sign to find the state’s centers.

• local travel experts • free brochures and guides • tips on lodging, dining, and attractions • internet access at most locations Look for this symbol on maps in this guide to locate California Welcome CentersSM statewide.

ORDER Official State Visitor’s Guide Free 202-page guide with travel ideas, maps, and resources. visitcalifornia.com/cvg or call 800/462-2543

ALEX FARNUM

ENJOY Dream365 Project Amazing stories and videos of California’s most awesome places and dreamers. visitcalifornia.com/dream365 SIGN UP Free e-newsletter Monthly travel tips, festivals, and special deals visitcalifornia.com/newsletter

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY Get in the road-trip spirit with our 12 custom-picked songs—one for each trip—hosted on Spotify. Or enjoy more than 40 classic California tunes by artists, like our cover girl Grammy-nominated Sara Bareilles.

Find it all at visitcalifornia.com/playlist

JOIN US | Share images and ideas

twitter.com/visitca youtube.com/visitca facebook.com/visitca pinterest.com/visitcalifornia instagram.com/visitcalifornia

visitcalifornia.com

5

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | NORTH COAST

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Sea Ranch

Avenue of the Giants

Towering trees, ocean waves, local bounty—head here for some of the state’s finest natural treasures TOTAL MILES: 713mi/1,143km START: SAN FRANCISCO MILL VALLEY (15mi/23km; 25min). Walk in cathedral-like groves of coast redwoods in Muir Woods. Drive to the 2,571ft/784m summit of Mt. Tamalpais for outstanding views of San Francisco Bay.

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BODEGA BAY (57mi/91km; 1hr6min). Order fish and chips at Sandpiper Restaurant. Drive to Bodega Head for awesome sunsets (in winter, look for whales too).

2

FORT ROSS (18mi/29km; 33min).

Tour the 1800s encampment of a Russian fur trading company. Walk to the quiet cove where sailing ships once anchored to load seal and otter pelts.

3

SEA RANCH (25mi/40km; 42min). Explore coastal trails through windswept cypress groves.

Shop for gifts at The Boutique at Sea Ranch Lodge. In Gualala, dine at stately St. Orres Inn, made of reclaimed redwood.

4

MENDOCINO (55mi/89km; 1hr 19min). Stroll streets lined with cozy cottages. Stop in at shops, such as Mendo Jams (ask for a free taste).

Learn about the region’s logging past at Historic Ford House museum. Follow paths along rugged headlands.

5

FORT BRAGG (10mi/16km; 6 15min).

Browse Northcoast Artists Gallery on Main Street, the first of several now filling this old lumber mill town. Grab thin-crust pizza and local brews at cozy Piaci pub.

HUMBOLDT REDWOODS STATE PARK (97mi/156km; 1hr51min).

Twist through 32 miles of coast redwoods along Avenue of the Giants. In tiny Miranda, shop for elegant wooden bowls and carvings at Stone’s Redwood Gallery.

7

6

visitcalifornia.com

ANDERSON (162mi/260km; 3hr6min). Swing by Shasta Outlets for bargains on Gap and Pendleton clothing. During summer, check the schedule for weekly live music alongside the Sacramento River during Anderson River Park’s Summer Serenade.

8

KELSEYVILLE (150mi/241km; 2hr25min). Wine taste with views at Shannon Ridge and other wineries around Clear Lake. Catch live blues at historic Blue Wing Saloon.

9

PETALUMA (85mi/136km; 1hr 39min). Pick from 1,500 varieties of heirloom seeds at the Seed Bank, in a former bank building. Sample perfect fresh pastas at Michelin-starred Risibisi Italian restaurant.

10

END: SAN FRANCISCO (39mi/62km; 47min)

Mark Your Calendar MENDOCINO MUSIC FESTIVAL

Live music of all types, some in venues overlooking the Pacific. Jul 12—26; mendocinomusic.org

Local Resources CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

San Francisco PIER 39, #B12, 2nd Level; 415/981-1280 Anderson 1699 Hwy. 273; 530/365-1180 Santa Rosa 9 Fourth St.; 800/404-7673

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 1 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

HARRIOT MANLEY; KODIAK GREENWOOD

NORTH COAST: GO WILD

do you speak SONOMA? Coasting:

v. Strolling, surfing, and staying where the sand meets the sea, the vistas are endless and the experience a natural wonder.

Sonoma Canopy Tours Get up close and personal with the unparalleled beauty of the worldfamous Northern California Coastal Redwoods on a 2.5 hour guided tour that includes 7 ziplines, 2 sky bridges, a majestic spiral staircase, and an exciting rappel. Family Friendly & Educational - 30 Minutes West of Santa Rosa – Open Year Round – Reservations Required.

888-494-7868 SonomaCanopyTours.com

Safari West - Go Glamping in the Wild!

Charles M. Schulz Museum

An authentic African Adventure in the Heart of Wine Country. Discover Wildlife in a natural habitat. Dine On the beautiful Sonoma Serengeti. Stay in luxury safari tents.

The Spirit of Africa lives here! Why fly halfway around the world when you can embrace an African adventure right here in Sonoma Wine Country? Reservations required.

Visit Snoopy, Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang and discover the art and life of Charles Schulz. The Museum features changing galleries of original comic art, a re-creation of Schulz’s studio, a 100 seat theatre, a drawing room, and beautiful outdoor gardens.

707-579-2551 or 800-616-2695 SafariWest.com

707-579-4452 SchulzMuseum.org

Historic Petaluma

Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery

Riverfront charm meets wine country sophistication only 32 miles north of San Francisco in Petaluma — the Bay Area’s gateway to wine country. Sample antique stores, art galleries, entertainment venues, and award-winning restaurants in our walkable, historic downtown. The ideal location for day trips to the Sonoma coast, majestic redwoods, farms and hundreds of wineries.

Floating above the coastal fog on a sunny coastal ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this is the only Tasting Room in the Fort Ross-Seaview American Viticultural Area on the majestic Sonoma Coast. Producers of limited quantities of acclaimed Estate grown, cool climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinotage. Open year round.

San Francisco North/Petaluma KOA Camping & RV Resort

707-769-0429 VisitPetaluma.com

707-847-3460 FortRossVineyard.com

707-763-1492 PetalumaKOA.com

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn

Sea Ranch Lodge

Flamingo Resort and Spa

Nestled in the heart of California Wine Country— recent completion of a stunning multi-million dollar renovation, all suites have fireplaces. Michelin-rated, Santé dining room showcases seasonal menus that highlight local products.

The resort is also home to the acclaimed Willow Stream Spa, which boasts geothermal mineral waters. Guests of the Inn retain exclusive privileges at neighboring Sonoma Golf Club.

Overlooking the dramatic Sonoma Coast, Sea Ranch Lodge is a natural escape, a place to be alone, together. Renovated accommodations feature stunning Pacific views; most have fireplaces. Acclaimed Black Point Grill offers seasonal menus, local ingredients, regional wines and ocean views. Experience a new Spa Studio, hiking and ‘Naturally Beautiful Weddings.’ Dog-friendly. Enjoy natural serenity, unsurpassed.

800-257-7544 fairmont.com/sonoma

800-732-7262 or 707-785-2371 SeaRanchLodge.com

Enjoy the convenience of a hotel and the relaxation of a camping resort. RV, Tent, Camping Cabins & Luxurious Wine Country Lodges.

Large Pool, Spa, Rockwall, Bounce Pillow, Hayrides, Bocce Ball, Horseshoes, Huge dog park & free WIFI. San Francisco Tours leave park daily May-October. Close to Sonoma Raceway, Graton Rancheria Casino & Petaluma Premium Outlets.

Historic Landmark offers 2 Pools, Spa, Tennis, 8000 sq. ft., Health Club, Poolside Dining, Lounge entertainment, Pet friendly, Free Parking, warm yoga & cycling studios. Summer/Fall weekday rates from $139. Newly remodeled rooms & suites.

800-848-8300 707-545-8530 FlamingoResort.com

SonomaCounty.com/SpeakSonoma 1-800–576-6662

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | VOLCANO COUNTRY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Redding

Lassen Peak

Travel from volcano country to the Pacific on this epic route to the state’s wildest corners TOTAL DISTANCE: 1,021mi/1,641km START: SACRAMENTO GRIDLEY (58mi/93km; 1hr). See as many as a million ducks, snow geese, and other migratory waterfowl at Gray Lodge Wildlife Area (best viewing in fall and winter).

1

2

CHICO (30mi/48km; 32min). Follow trails deep into Upper Bidwell

Park, with leafy canyons and cool swimming holes. Toast your discoveries at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.’s taproom, then take a brewery tour.

RED BLUFF (42mi/68km; 48min).

Sample world-class olive oils and more along the Tehama Trail, showcasing local foods and wines. Relax on the edge of the Sacramento River at Red Bluff River Park.

3

REDDING (32mi/51km; 30min).

Rent bikes (try Shasta Glide ‘n Ride) to follow the 11-mile Sacramento River Rail Trail. Learn about porcupines, hawks, and other native wildlife at Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

4

SHASTA LAKE (10mi/16km; 12min). Catch the catamaran to skim across the water, then tour the underground magic of Lake Shasta Caverns. Take a free guided tour of towering Shasta Dam.

5

LASSEN VOLCANIC NATIONAL PARK (54mi/87km; 58min).

Follow Mill Creek Falls Trail to the 75ft/23m falls. Stay in snug cabins bordering peaceful Manzanita Lake. See bubbling mud pots in Bumpass Hell, or hike to spooky Terminal Geyser.

6

MOUNT SHASTA CITY (94mi/151km; 1hr36min). Indulge in flaky, fresh berry tarts at Mount Shasta Pastry. Get New Age-y in The Crystal Room (ask to see the remarkable crystal singing bowls).

7

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visitcalifornia.com

LAVA BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT (103mi/165km;

2hr). Discover this eerily remote parkland with underground lava tubes along Cave Loop Road (bring a flashlight or headlamp) or head to lighted Mushpot Cave.

YREKA (109mi/176km; 2hr 11min). Have a java at Misty’s Wet Yer Whistle Espresso. Browse handcrafted instruments, including Native American flutes, at New Traditions Dulcimers & Wood Crafts.

9

EUREKA (200mi/321km; 4hr 20min). In renovated Old Town, visit Humboldt Bay Tourism Center for local wine, oysters, quality crafts, and details on activities, including boat tours of wildlife-rich Humboldt Bay.

10

END: SACRAMENTO (289mi/465km; 4hr57min)

Mark Your Calendar REDWOOD COAST JAZZ FESTIVAL

National and local artists gather in Eureka to play Dixieland, zydeco, blues, and swing. Mar 27—29, 2015; redwoodjazz.org

Local Resources CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

Anderson 1699 Hwy. 273; 530/365-1180 Yreka #2 Hwy. 96; 530/475-3814 Arcata 1635 Heindon Rd.; 707/822-3619

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 2 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

ROB BRODMAN; TAI POWER SEEF

VOLCANOES TO THE SEA

Supersize Your TRIP See the world’s tallest trees of Redwood National Park and The Avenue of the Giants. only in Humboldt County, CA.

Free Guide & Lodging Specials 800-346-3482 & www.Redwoods.info

Photo: Inyo County

EvEnts • AdvEnturEs • LocAL cuLturE Plan the perfect road trip recommended by locals and National Geographic at

www.sierranevadaGeotourism.org

The Best Value on the Road

Free Internet, Continental Breakfast & HBO at most of our 1,000 Inns, Hotels & Suites in North America

b* lue Clu Free Va Rewards Instant Stays uture 5% on F • Save 1 e Upgrad • Room ut heck-O • Late C l Specia reds of • Hund and Discounts Offers

We’ve Got You Covered ®

AmericasBestValueInn.com 888-315-2378

Download our free App

*Offers & discounts are subject to availability and may be cancelled at any time. Details at AmericasBestValueInn.com or visit an Americas Best Value Inn. © 2014 Vantage Hospitality Group Inc.

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | WINE COUNTRY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Near Santa Rosa

CLASSIC WINE COUNTRY

selling everything from fresh oysters to handmade chocolates. Stop in at more than 20 in-town tasting rooms.

Pair locally sourced food and wines—and craft beers—on this mouthwatering jaunt through Northern California

TOTAL DISTANCE: 222mi/359km START: SAN FRANCISCO

lars. Rent a boat from Burke’s Canoes and paddle the Russian River.

SANTA ROSA (55mi/89km; 1hr).

Hunt for antiques in historic Railroad Square. Refresh with a hoppy IPA at the Russian River Brew Pub.

HEALDSBURG (18mi/29km; 32min). Sip world-class wines along River and Westside Roads on the way to town. Visit SHED, a unique cafe/shop/event space that’s all about locally sourced and grown foods. Bask on the patio at Bear Republic Brewery over a Racer 5 ale.

SEBASTOPOL (7mi/11km; 10min).

Sample local bounty at Sebastopol Farm Market, or see unique hybrids and blooms at Luther Burbank’s Experiment Farm.

2

GUERNEVILLE (15mi/24km; 27min). Hike through ancient redwoods at Armstrong Woods State Natural Reserve. Taste bubbly and tour wine caves at Korbel Champagne Cel-

3

4

GEYSERVILLE (8mi/13km; 10min).

Stop and play at Coppola Winery, which has swimming pools, dining, and a movie-memorabilia gallery. Sample house-cured meats and wood-fired pizzas at Diavola Pizzeria and Salumeria.

WINTERS (41mi/66km; 44min).

Stroll cute-as-a-button historic downtown for galleries, cafes, and tasting rooms. Cool off with a dip in Putah Creek, or quaff crisp ales at Berryessa Brewing Co.

9

DAVIS (14mi/23km; 22min).

Visit U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame, then rent a bike at B & L Bike Shop to pedal to the leafy U.C. Davis campus.

Schedule a tour of the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science.

10

END: SACRAMENTO (14mi/23km; 17min)

5

CALISTOGA (24mi/39km; 34min).

Taste in style at castle-like Chateau Montelena Winery. See coast redwoods turned to stone in the Petrified Forest, or take a mud bath at vintage-cool Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort.

6

ST. HELENA (8mi/13km; 13min).

Taste fresh olive oils at Olivier or St. Helena Olive Oil Co. Get fresh cookies at The Model Bakery, then snack while you stroll along Main Street, lined with tempting shops.

7

NAPA (18mi/29km; 26min). Eat at Oxbow Public Market, the foodie paradise with local purveyors

8

Mark Your Calendar FESTIVAL DEL SOLE

Choose from more than 60 events, including classical and jazz performances and vintner luncheons with one of the 100 participating wineries. Jul 11 –20; festivaldelsole.org

Local Resources CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

San Francisco PIER 39, #B12, 2nd Level; 415/981-1280 Santa Rosa 9 Fourth St.; 800/404-7673

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 3 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

TAKE THIS TRIP? SHARE YOUR PIX WITH WATCH AMAZING VIDEOS AT VISITCALIFORNIA.COM/DREAM365 #CAROADTRIPS

10 visitcalifornia.com

HARRIOT MANLEY; TAI POWER SEEFF

1

St. Helena

Wine. Food. Arts. Wellness.

You’ll want to stay a little longer.

Plan your trip to The Legendary Napa Valley at

VisitNapaValley.com

Come experience the Napa Valley — where world-class wines, friendly faces, historic surroundings, miles of nature preserves, and a spirit of wellness set a slower pace, inviting you to relax, savor, and restore.

Our farm-to-table culinary scene will delight you, with more Michelin-star rated restaurants per capita than any other wine region in the world.

You’ll receive a warm welcome in our winery tasting rooms, where you’ll feel a rush of excitement on your palate when you sample our legendary wines.

A vibrant art, live-music and theater community will satisfy your cultural cravings; and our healing hot-spring waters, crisp-clean air and luxurious spa resorts will renew you.

Join us on Facebook, follow us at @VisitNapaValley on Twitter, and download our free Visit Napa Valley™ Mobile App

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | HIGHWAY 49

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Sonora

American River

Family fun, fresh tastes, and old-timey towns—you’ll find a mother lode of adventure on this drive TOTAL DISTANCE: 302mi/486km START: SACRAMENTO SACRAMENTO Pan for gold. Let guides in period dress set the mood on a Gold Rush walking tour by the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation—the underground tour, visiting basements with colorful pasts, is especially cool.

1

NEVADA CITY (61mi/98km; 1hr4min). Explore a mining pit at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park. Taste wines at downtown tasting

2

rooms, and shop for locally made gifts at Neva Co. Artisan Boutique and The Earth Store.

GRASS VALLEY (4mi/7km; 6min).

Stroll the lavish gardens and mansion of a wealthy mine owner at Empire Mine State Historic Park. Catch a concert at The Center for the Arts, a stylish local hub for great music.

3

AUBURN (24mi/38km; 28min).

Dig into biscuits and gravy at Katrina’s Café. Meander the trails to the river on the American Canyon Trail in Tahoe National Forest.

4

COLOMA (18mi/29km; 29min).

See where the Gold Rush began in Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, site of the region’s first gold find. Take a trip on the American River with O.A.R.S. or other outfitters.

5

SUTTER CREEK (36mi/58km; 52min). Pack a picnic with artisanal cheeses and gourmet foods from Sutter Creek Cheese Shoppe.

Browse gift-filled shops, such as Fine Eye Gallery, in historic buildings along Main Street.

6

10min).

7 JACKSON (4mi/7km; Stock up on jerky from Swingle Meat Co. Scan the shelves for surprising rare and antique books at Hein and Company bookstore.

SONORA (43mi/70km; 59min).

Sample sarsaparilla, pan for gold, and tour re-created 1850s-era shops in Columbia State Historic Park. Dine on modern cuisine in a Gold Rush–era building at Diamondback Grill.

8

JAMESTOWN (4mi/6km; 6min).

Chug into the foothills on weekend train rides at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Belly up to the old redwood bar at the National Hotel’s Gold Rush Saloon.

9

STOCKTON (59mi/95km; 1hr 8min). Get a taste of wine and history at Sorelle Winery, part of an estate dating from the 1860s. Visit the Haggin Museum’s exhibits on Stockton’s Gold Rush boomtown days.

10

END: SACRAMENTO (49mi/78km; 47min)

Mark Your Calendar CALIFORNIA WORLDFEST

A wide range of artists—rock and roll, folk, reggae, and even Celtic—performs on eight stages at this four-day party in Grass Valley. Jul 10–13; worldfest.net

Local Resources CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER

Auburn 1103 High St., Ste. 150; 530/887-2111

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Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 4 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

TAKE THIS TRIP? SHARE YOUR PIX WITH WATCH AMAZING VIDEOS AT VISITCALIFORNIA.COM/DREAM365 #CAROADTRIPS

12 visitcalifornia.com

KODIAK GREENWOOD; HARRIOT MANLEY

RETRACE THE 49ER GOLD RUSH

CONNECTING PARKS TO PEOPLE HEALTHY AND FUN RECREATION

Something for all Generations

Mountain Biking Thrills

Celebrations

TILDEN REGIONAL PARK nestled in the Berkeley-Orinda hills. Take a ride on the historic HerschellSpillman Carousel, enjoy the Steam Trains, Botanic Garden and Little Farm. Outstanding trails offer amazing views of the Bay. An interpretive visitor center features watershed education.

PLEASANTON RIDGE REGIONAL PARK, Pleasanton. One of the largest regional parks at over 5,000 acres of open space and views from the Sierra Nevada to the San Francisco Bay. This popular location excites hikers and bikers alike with an invigorating workout.

• Old-fashioned Independence Day at Ardenwood Historic FARM (Fremont, July) • Cajun/Zydeco Festival (Fremont, August) • Cowboy Music Festival (Sunol, November) • Christmas at Ardenwood

Visit www.ebparks.org for more information

Explore all California has to offer with Best Western hotels along the way Join Best Western Rewards®, our FREE rewards program, and now through May 31, 2015, you can earn 500 bonus points for every qualified night you stay at a Best Western hotel in California for up to 3 nights!

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ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | HIGHWAY 1

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Big Sur

Experience one of the world’s best road trips—the Pacific Coast Highway linking L.A. to San Francisco TOTAL DISTANCE: 458mi/734km START: LOS ANGELES VENTURA (65mi/104km; 1hr 9min). Stop at Channel Islands National Park’s visitor center to learn about the wildlife-rich islands—less than an hour away by boat.

1

SANTA BARBARA (34mi/54km; 35min). Hear big names perform under the stars at the Santa Barbara Bowl. Try salted caramel ice cream and other handcrafted foods at downtown’s brand new Santa Barbara Public Market.

2

SOLVANG (34mi/55km; 39min).

Find elaborate gingerbread houses at The Solvang Bakery. Pair private label wines with music at Cali Love Wines, where the owners are in a country-rock band.

MONTEREY (4mi/7km; 9min). See incredible ocean life at Monterey Bay Aquarium (including the new Tentacles octopus exhibit). Get great gifts in the aquarium store, and dine on sustainable cuisine at Cindy’s Waterfront.

PISMO BEACH (54mi/87km; 51min). Reel in halibut from the pier (no license required). Stroll the long beach or boardwalk for grand oceanfront views.

END: SAN FRANCISCO (119mi/191km; 1hr59min)

3

4

SAN LUIS OBISPO (13mi/20km; 14min). Go wine tasting along the delightful country roads of the Edna Valley near town. Chill out with craft beers on a wooded streamside patio at downtown’s Creekside Brewing Company.

5

MORRO BAY (13mi/21km; 16min).

Scan for wildlife as you paddle the bay in a kayak or canoe from The Kayak Shack. Lunch on local grassy bar oysters and award-winning clam chowder at Giovanni’s Fish Market.

6

HEARST CASTLE (30mi/48km; 33min). Choose from four unforgettable tours at California’s grandest estate, Hearst Castle. Sample Hearst Ranch Wines at historic Sebastian’s General Store.

7

BIG SUR (66mi/105km; 1hr 8 44min).

Walk through redwood groves to waterfalls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Savor wood-fired nine-grain pancakes during weekend brunches at Big Sur Bakery.

14 visitcalifornia.com

CARMEL (26mi/42km; 37min).

Browse galleries and follow the Carmel Wine Walk By the Sea; passports ($65) are good for 10 tasting rooms. Stroll the white sands at dogfriendly Carmel Beach.

9

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Mark Your Calendar FRIDAY NIGHT BANDS ON THE BEACH

Weekly outdoor concerts get the scene rocking at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Jun–Aug; beachboardwalk.com/concerts

Local Resources Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board discoverlosangeles.com Hollywood & Highland Visitor Information Center 6801 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/467-6412 CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

Oxnard 2786 Seaglass Way, #5105; 805/988-0717 Pismo Beach 333 Five Cities Dr., Ste. 100; 805/773-7924 San Francisco PIER 39, #B12, 2nd Level; 415/981-1280 San Mateo 60 31st Ave.; 650/578-8033

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

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SONG 5 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

THOMAS J. STORY; ALEXA MILLER

CLASSIC COAST DRIVE

h c a e B o m s i P

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | HIGHWAY 99

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Fresno

Woodland

HIGHWAY 99: CRUISE THE HEARTLAND

Pick fresh produce, relax in cool gardens, and learn about local farming heritage on this journey through the Central Valley

TOTAL DISTANCE: 487mi/784km START: LOS ANGELES BAKERSFIELD (112mi/180km; 1hr46min). Go back in time at the replica pioneer village at Kern County Museum. Refuel with hearty biscuits and gravy at Cope’s Knotty Pine Café.

1

VISALIA (79mi/127km; 1hr11min).

Dig into the region’s roots at the Antique Farm & Equipment Museum.

2

Catch an indie film, live music, or comedy at the handsomely restored Fox Theatre.

HANFORD (20mi/32km; 20min).

Swap your shoes for slippers and Zen out in the bonsai garden at Clark Center for Japanese Art and Culture; see displays of elegant kimonos, wood-block prints, and Buddhist art.

3

FRESNO (34mi/55km; 38min).

Explore the quirky subterranean courtyards at Forestiere Underground Gardens. Take in a high-caliber concert

by Fresno Philharmonic, the largest orchestra between San Francisco and L.A.

4

MADERA (24mi/39km; 24min).

Pair San Joaquin Valley local foods and wines at ApCal (Appellation: California), a one-stop shop and visitor center. Visit Circle Gallery for handmade jewelry, pottery, and paintings.

summer cherries and berries at Countryside Farms.

FAIRFIELD (53mi/85km; 1hr).

Hike or bike the lush oak woodlands in Rockville Hills Regional Park.

Cool off with a taste of just-made beer during the Budweiser Beermaster brewery tour.

8

VACAVILLE (11mi/18km; 13min).

Score bargains on designer fashions at Vacaville Premium Outlets. See Vacaville Museum’s exhibits on Solano County pioneers and local farming heritage.

9

WOODLAND (30mi/48km; 30min). Pick fresh produce at Pacific Star Gardens, then visit Yolo Land & Cattle Co. to learn about the ranch’s sustainable farming practices.

Stroll past elegant mansions and rose gardens lining First Street.

10

END: SACRAMENTO (20mi/32km; 22min)

5

1hr7 STOCKTON (70mi/113km; 6min). Groove to live tunes at the waterfront Stockton Arena. Stroll the “Miracle Mile” of shops, restaurants, and nightclubs on Pacific Avenue. Pick 16 visitcalifornia.com

Dancing in the streets of Old Sac every Memorial Day weekend since 1974.

May 23–26; sacmusicfest.com

Local Resources CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER

Merced 710 W. 16th St.; 209/724-8104

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 6 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

LAURA FLIPPEN; ALEX FARNUM

MERCED (34mi/55km; 33min).

Stock up on wholesome car snacks at Buchanan Hollow Nut Company. Get a dose of farming history at Merced Agricultural Museum (check out the model of the proposed new train to Yosemite Valley).

6

Mark Your Calendar SACRAMENTO MUSIC FESTIVAL & JUBILEE

Uncomplicated. Uncongested. Unspoiled. VisitFairfieldCA.com Jelly Belly Factory Tours, Boutique Wineries, Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tours, Affordable Hotels, Minutes from Napa Valley and Outlet Shopping /VisitFairfieldCA

@fairfield4fun

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | THE HIGH SIERRA

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Yosemite Valley

Lake Tahoe

Granite peaks, alpine valleys, towering trees—the High Sierra is nature’s playground all year-round TOTAL DISTANCE: 930mi/1,494km START: SAN FRANCISCO

TRUCKEE (186mi/300km; 2hr 59min). Fuel up with pesto green eggs and ham at Full Belly Deli. Peruse Tahoe/Sierra photos at Carmel Gallery.

Enjoy outstanding dining at Trokay.

1

SQUAW VALLEY (12mi/18km; 16min). In summer, take the Aerial Tram to High Camp for dining,

2

swimming, and wildflower walks; enjoy an art or music festival practically every weekend. In winter, ski Julia’s Gold run, named for local Olympian Julia Mancuso.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE (37mi/59km; 1hr). Take a lesson on the lake with South Tahoe Standup Paddle. At Stateline, ride the Heavenly Gondola for big lake views and grilled ribs at Tamarack Lodge.

3

BEAR VALLEY (67mi/108km; 2hr 18min). Tour an alpine meadow by bike with Bear Valley Adventure Company. In winter, board and sled family-friendly Bear Valley Mountain.

4

ARNOLD (30mi/48km; 44min).

Learn about sequoia habitat at Calaveras Big Trees State Park’s new visitor center, then walk the North and South Groves. Sample award-winning ales at Snowshoe Brewing Co.

5

GROVELAND (57mi/92km; 1hr 20min). See how gold mining influenced the region at Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum. Visit beautiful Mountain Sage Nursery. Dine at historic Groveland Hotel.

6

YOSEMITE VALLEY (48mi/77km; 1hr8min). Celebrate Yosemite’s 150th anniversary with special photo and history exhibits at the valley’s visitor center. Lunch at El Capitan Picnic Area to watch climbers scaling the towering granite face.

7

8 18 visitcalifornia.com

OAKHURST (54mi/86km; 1hr 14min). Zoom through the pines

on a canopy tour with Zip Yosemite.

Splurge on a Champagne brunch in country-estate splendor at Erna’s Elderberry House.

SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS (129mi/207; 2hr30min). Take the dramatic drive to Mineral King valley (ranger-guided walks in summer). Explore on horseback with Cedar Grove Pack Station.

9

GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT (124mi/200km; 3hr). Stroll the Trail of 100 Giants, a leisurely loop dotted with info-packed signs, or visit pristine Freeman Grove.

Sleep under the stars and sequoias at Belknap Campground.

10

END: LOS ANGELES (186mi/299km; 3hr8min)

Mark Your Calendar STRAWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL

Labor Day weekend brings 21 bands and their sweet melodies to Camp Mather, between Groveland and Yosemite National Park. Aug 31–Sep 2; strawberrymusic.com

Local Resources CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

San Francisco PIER 39, #B12, 2nd Level; 415/981-1280 Auburn 1103 High St., Ste. 150; 530/887-2111 Truckee 10065 Donner Pass Rd.; 530/587-2757

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SONG 7 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

HARRIOT MANLEY; ALEX FARNUM

MOUNTAIN MAJESTY

23% 4 famous attractions • 3-Day Park Hopper® to Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park • Universal Studios HollywoodSM • SeaWorld® San Diego - Good for 14 days - Skip most ticket lines

Visit citypass.com for current pricing.

SAVE 46% 4 famous attractions Unlimited cable car rides

• 7-Day, Unlimited-use Cable Car & Muni Transportation Passport • California Academy of Sciences • Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise Adventure • Your choice of Aquarium of the Bay OR Monterey Bay Aquarium • Your choice of Exploratorium OR de Young Museum + Legion of Honor - Good for 9 days

Buy at these attractions

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Connect with CityPASS

(888) 330-5008 or citypass.com

ATLANTA | BOSTON | CHICAGO | HOUSTON | NEW YORK CITY | PHILADELPHIA | SAN FRANCISCO | SEATTLE | SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA | TAMPA BAY | TORONTO Prices and programs subject to change.

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | HIGHWAY 101

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Near Pinnacles National Park

Golden Gate Bridge

HIGHWAY 101: THE PULSE OF CALIFORNIA From big-city lights to beaches and wine tasting, sample the best of everything on this classic drive

TOTAL DISTANCE: 450mi/723km START: LOS ANGELES LOS ANGELES Catch a night-sky show at Griffith Observatory’s planetarium (outside see one of the best views of L.A.). Stroll Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills for posh shops and celeb-spotting.

1

CARPINTERIA (84mi/135km; 1hr26min). Turn the kids loose in Tomal Interpretive Play Area, a replica Chumash native village. Grab burgers at The Spot. See natural asphaltum ooze from the ground at Tar Pits Park.

2

SANTA YNEZ (41mi/67km; 45min). Detour on country roads to sample vintages at top vineyards and tasting rooms, including Carr Winery, makers of ultra-premium limited production wines. Imagine Wine in town doubles as an art gallery.

3

LOS OLIVOS (5mi/7km; 7min).

4 Stop by J. Woeste for practically every kind of succulent on the planet.

Get creative at Artiste: dabble and doodle on group canvasses and art journals while sipping creative blends.

PASO ROBLES (90mi/144km; 1hr24min). Explore shops surrounding the town’s charming plaza.

Taste hard-to-find wines at Paso Underground, a collective of small-lot winemakers.

5

and low-key rides. Stop by The Garlic Shoppe for aromatic gifts.

SAN JOSÉ (33mi/54km; 33min).

Design and build a robot at The Tech Museum of Innovation. Visit wacky Winchester Mystery House.

Dine alfresco in Peralta Adobe Plaza.

9

SAN FRANCISCO (48mi/77km; 52min). Walk from Fisherman’s Wharf to the new Exploratorium for handson science fun. Shop at Union Square, visit California Academy of Sciences, and pedal across the Golden Gate Bridge.

10

END: SAN FRANCISCO

Mark Your Calendar OUTSIDE LANDS

Music/food/art bash in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park attracts major headliners like Paul McCartney. Aug 8–10; sfoutsidelands.com

Local Resources Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board discoverlosangeles.com Hollywood & Highland Visitor Information Center 6801 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/467-6412 CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

Pa

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44min).

7 SALINAS (36mi/59km; Bounce along on a tractor tour of The Farm, then stop by the produce stand (just-baked pies on Fridays).

Relive the travels of local author John Steinbeck at National Steinbeck Center.

GILROY (29mi/46km; 30min).

Nab bargains at Gilroy Premium Outlets. Let the kids romp at Gilroy Gardens, with playful landscaping

8

20 visitcalifornia.com

Oxnard 2786 Seaglass Way, #5105; 805/988-0717 Pismo Beach 333 Five Cities Dr., Ste. 100; 805/773-7924 Salinas 1213 N. Davis Rd.; 831/757-8687 San Mateo 60 31st Ave.; 650/578-8033 San Francisco PIER 39, #B12, 2nd Level; 415/981-1280

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 8 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

THOMAS J. STORY; CATHERINE HUNTER

PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK (84mi/134km; 1hr24min). Bring binoculars to search for endangered California condors soaring over volcanic rock spires, and bring a flashlight to explore Talus Caves.

6

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ome to the Aquarium of the Pacific where you and your family can get in touch with nature and marine life, any time you want. Touch sharks. Feed lorikeet birds. Watch penguins play.

Over 11,000 animals await you.

aquariumofpacific.org 562. 590. 3100 Disneyland速 Resort Park Hopper速 Tickets available on our website!

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100 AQUARIUM WAY, LONG BEACH, CA 90802

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | THEME PARKS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Universal Studios Hollywood

Disneyland

BEACH TOWNS & BIG THRILLS

Take a spin on favorite rides, see exotic animals, and play on sunny beaches on this fun-filled drive through sunny SoCal

SAN DIEGO In Balboa Park, visit Panda Canyon in the San Diego Zoo. Celebrate SeaWorld San Diego’s 50th anniversary by visiting the new Explorer’s Reef undersea exhibit.

1

ESCONDIDO (31mi/49km; 32min). Head north to join safaristyle tours in open-air trams to see zebras, gazelles, giraffes, rhinos, and other exotic animals from around the world at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

2

CARLSBAD (20mi/33km; 23min).

You’ve seen the movie, now see how it was made at LEGOLAND

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25 mi

Universal City 0 101 10 Los Angeles 1 Buena 710 8 Park 91 7 Anaheim Long Beach 9

50 km

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LAGUNA BEACH (39mi/63km; 43min). Get the look at Thalia Street Surf Shop, then take the stairs down to the beach to watch locals carve up the waves, or ride skim boards at the edge of the surf.

UNIVERSAL CITY (33mi/54km; 44min). Experience the madcap 3-D world of Universal Studios Hollywood’s new Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. Splash around and cool off in the 80 play fountains at Super Silly Fun Land.

4

NEWPORT BEACH (11mi/18km; 20min). Grab deli sandwiches at friendly Hershey’s Market on Balboa Island, then picnic aboard an electric Duffy boat. Cruise around the harbor to check out maxed-out yachts.

5

COSTA MESA (2mi/3km; 4min).

Get a dose of luxe at South Coast Plaza, the state’s largest shopping complex, known for high-end boutiques and top designers, like Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

6

ANAHEIM (18mi/30km; 20min).

Revisit newly renovated Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland Park. Chill out in Anaheim’s peaceful new Farmers Park, in the revamped Packing District.

5

O

See penguins, sea otters, and even a re-created underwater volcano at the Aquarium of the Pacific.

7

Costa Mesa 6 55 Newport Beach 5 4 Laguna Beach ic

California’s The LEGO Movie Experience. Create your own digital song at Carlsbad’s Museum of Making Music.

Oceanside Escondido Carlsbad 3 78 2 15 163

San Diego 1

22 visitcalifornia.com

BUENA PARK (6mi/10km; 8min).

8 At Knott’s Berry Farm, take a wild drive on Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies in remodeled Camp Snoopy. Behold dancing horses at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, and dine to aarghs and canon blasts at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure.

LONG BEACH (21mi/34km; 25min). Tour the Queen Mary, the legendary luxury liner now permanently docked along the waterfront.

9

10

END: LOS ANGELES (11mi/18km; 20min)

Mark Your Calendar SUMMER POPS

Enjoy outdoor concerts on the edge of San Diego Bay, performed by the San Diego Symphony. June 27–Aug 31; sandiegosymphony.org

Local Resources Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board discoverlosangeles.com Hollywood & Highland Visitor Information Center 6801 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/467-6412 CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

Oceanside 928 N. Coast Hwy.; 760/721-1101 Buena Park 6601 Beach Blvd.; 714/523-3441

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 9 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

HARRIOT MANLEY; COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

TOTAL DISTANCE: 192mi/312km START: SAN DIEGO

COSTA MESA

CITY OF THE ARTS

Costa Mesa offers worldclass fashion at South Coast Plaza, a palette of awardwinning performances at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, exquisite dining and endless relaxation at an exceptional selection of hotels. The City of the Arts™ sets the stage for the ultimate Southern California retreat—centrally located just minutes from beaches, the Disneyland® Resort and Orange County’s John Wayne Airport.

TRAVELCOSTAMESA.COM

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | ROUTE 66

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Balboa Park

Ramble from the coast to the desert and back again on this loop that captures the spirit of the original iconic route

TOTAL DISTANCE: 627mi/1,008km START: SAN DIEGO SAN DIEGO See pristine vintage cars at the San Diego Automotive Museum in historic Balboa Park, which celebrates its centennial in 2015. Enjoy lunch alfresco at The Prado, the park’s signature restaurant.

1

PALM DESERT (121mi/194km; 2hr7min). At The Living Desert, see the new fossa, a catlike creature from Madagascar, as well as other rare animals and desert plants. Get your retail fix with a splurge at luxury stores like Tiffany & Co. along El Paseo.

2

NEEDLES (178mi/287km; 2hr 49min). Discover California’s “east coast” along the Colorado River.

Look for greater roadrunners and over 300 other bird species at Havasu National Wildlife Refuge.

3

BARSTOW (144mi/231km; 2hr 41min). Following National Trails Highway, make a pit stop at the Route 66 “Mother Road” Museum to see vintage signs and photos and other memorabilia. Shop for bargains on Coach, Nike, and more at Tanger Outlets.

4

VICTORVILLE (32mi/52km; 29min). Get even more kicks at the California Route 66 Museum.

Groove to live jazz and sip local wines and microbrews at D’Vine Wine Bar.

5

SAN BERNARDINO (41mi/65km; 37min). Root for the Inland Empire 66ers at a Class A Advanced baseball game. Order carne asada tacos at Mitla Café, a favorite since 1937.

6

ONTARIO (24mi/39km; 25min).

Get samples at Graber Olive House, a family business since 1894.

Hunt for deals on big-name brands like J.Crew and Neiman Marcus at Ontario Mills, California’s largest outlet mall.

7

PASADENA (35mi/56km; 36min).

Visit Old Pasadena, now home to over 200 shops (including irresistible

8

Dot’s Cupcakes). Tour Gamble House, a 1908 Arts and Crafts gem. Take a tour of iconic Rose Bowl Stadium.

BURBANK (12mi/19km; 13min).

See a working sound stage and old movie sets on a Warner Bros. VIP Studio Tour. Grab burgers at Bob’s Big Boy, a 1949 landmark that’s a popular hangout for vintage car buffs.

9

SANTA MONICA (24mi/39km; 33min). Relax among eye-catching sculptures at new Tongva Park. Visit McCabe’s Guitar Shop, where musicians often give intimate concerts.

Celebrate sunset with cocktails on the dining deck at Santa Monica Place.

10

END: LOS ANGELES (16mi/26km; 24min)

Mark Your Calendar HUCK FINN JUBILEE

This mega-fest celebrating bluegrass attracts top Grammy-winning performers such as Del McCoury Band and Rhonda Vincent. Jun 13–15; huckfinn.com

Local Resources Inland Empire Tourism Council discoverie.com CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER

Barstow 2796 Tanger Way, Ste. 100; 760/253-4782

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 10 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

TAKE THIS TRIP? SHARE YOUR PIX WITH #CAROADWATCH TRIPS AMAZING VIDEOS AT VISITCALIFORNIA.COM/DREAM365

24 visitcalifornia.com

ALEXA MILLER; DAVE LAURIDSEN

ROUTE 66: THE MOTHER ROAD

San Bernardino

Easy

airport access leaves more time to explore this vibrant Southern California vacation spot. We can fill your next visit with extreme (meaning really, really fun!) ways to experience all the remarkable destinations of Greater Ontario, California. Connect with us to exceed your best vacation expectations!

Meet, explore and connect in Greater Ontario, California. For more information on your next vacation adventure, visit: discoverontariocalifornia.org/vacations 9 0 9 . 9 3 7. 3 0 0 0 I 8 0 0 . 4 5 5 . 5 7 5 5 or email at info@ont ariocvb.org

2000 E. Convention Center Way I Ontario, California 91764

meet ¥ explore ¥ connect

Rolling… and action!

Check-in to style, then check out TV and movie magic

For scripting the perfect stay, Burbank is your stylish scene.

Discover boutique luxury at secret hotel hideaways of the stars. Stay in hip places that regularly appear in TV and films. Or get down to business at convention hotels neighboring Burbank Bob Hope Airport.

The style all starts at VisitBurbank.com.

MOVIE STUDIOS & TOURS | LIVE TV SHOWS | HOTELS & DINING UNIQUE ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICTS | ARTS & ACTIVITIES | BURBANK AIRPORT

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | HIGHWAY 395

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Bodie

Be awed at every turn by majestic peaks, stunning lakes, and charming mountain towns on this high desert drive

TOTAL DISTANCE: 580mi/934km START: SACRAMENTO

1

ish the jumbo cinnamon roll at Hays Street Café. Get gear and info at Ken’s Sporting Goods, then fish for trout on the Walker River.

2

BODIE STATE HISTORIC PARK (20mi/32km; 33min). Peek into the eerily empty schoolhouse, church, and rickety miner shacks in the country’s best-preserved ghost town, once home to nearly 10,000 people.

MARKLEEVILLE (118mi/190km; 2hr11min). Take a dip in mineral pools at Grover Hot Springs State Park, see the old log jail at Alpine County Museum, and dine on Stonefly Restaurant’s wood-fired pizzas.

BRIDGEPORT (63mi/101km; 1hr12min). Try your best to fin-

3

LEE VINING (31mi/50km; 45min).

Join naturalists from the Mono Lake Committee on a free tour of Mono’s mysterious tufa towers. Kick back to a summer “Music at the Mobil” concert at the Whoa Nellie Deli.

4

MAMMOTH LAKES (29mi/47km; 29min). Ride the gondola up to alpine vistas at Mammoth Mountain.

Take a scenic side trip to Convict Lake, south of town.

5

BISHOP (42mi/68km; 44min).

Join the line for a huge array of breads and pastries at Erick Schat’s Bakery. Shop for cowboy boots along Main Street. Visit Mountain Light Gallery to see stunning photography of the Eastern Sierra.

6

MANZANAR NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE (48mi/77km; 48min).

Walk or drive around this expansive compound to learn what life was like for Japanese Americans held at this stark internment camp during World War II.

7

LONE PINE (10mi/16km; 12min).

Chat with locals over omelettes and biscuits at Alabama Hills Café.

Drive up to Whitney Portal, trailhead to 14,494-foot Mt. Whitney, tallest peak in the Lower 48.

8

INYOKERN (71mi/114km; 1hr 6min). Refresh at Indian Wells Brewing Company, an unlikely but welcome oasis for lovers of craft beers (these made with local artesian well water).

9

RED ROCK CANYON STATE PARK (27mi/44km; 30min).

Explore vivid cliffs and canyons along a onetime trade route used by Native Americans and wagon trains.

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END: LOS ANGELES (121mi/195km; 1hr52min)

Mark Your Calendar MAMMOTH FESTIVAL OF BEERS AND BLUESAPALOOZA

Top craft beers paired with blues legends such as Buddy Guy. Jul 31–Aug 3; mammothbluesbrewsfest.com

Local Resources CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

El Dorado Hills 2085 Vine St., Ste. 105; 916/358-3700 Mammoth Lakes 2510 Main St. (SR 203); 760/924-5500

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 11 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

TAKE THIS TRIP? SHARE YOUR PIX WITH WATCH AMAZING VIDEOS AT VISITCALIFORNIA.COM/DREAM365 #CAROADTRIPS

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KODIAK GREENWOOD; HARRIOT MANLEY

CALIFORNIA’S BIG WOW

Near Mammoth Lakes

Aston LAkeLAnd ViLLAge beAch & mountAin resort Condominium resort featuring hotel services and lakefront location near casinos and activities.

Enjoy complimentary shuttle service within South Lake Tahoe area.

(866) 774-2924 AstonLakelandVillage.com

Social Climber in Yucca Valley

NATIONAL PARK

S TAY I N T H E H E A R T O F YO S E M I T E .

Visit YosemitePark.com or call (801) 559-5026. Š2014 Hospitality by Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, an authorized concessioner of the National Park Service.

DNYO170_2586_Yosmite_RoadTrips_3x2.125_05_23_2014_P.indd 1

3/6/14 11:53 AM

yuccavalley.org 760-365-6323

ROAD TRIPS 2014–15 | DESERTS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Palm Springs

Anza-Borrego

Hear singing sand dunes and explore surreal landscapes in this otherworldly region of Southern California

TOTAL DISTANCE: 851mi/1,369km START: SAN DIEGO ALPINE (29mi/46km; 29min).

At Lions, Tigers & Bears, see—and even feed—17 species of big cats and exotic animals. Walk Desert View trail in Cleveland National Forest to gaze at the Salton Sea 4,000ft/1,219m below.

1

ANZA-BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK (55mi/88km; 1hr12min).

Look for Native American pictographs

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along Smuggler’s Canyon Trail and desert bighorn sheep on the cliffs. Stay in new cabins at Tamarisk Grove campground.

INDIO (76mi/123km; 1hr14min).

Cool off with fresh date ice cream at Shield’s Date Garden. See how pioneers lived at Coachella Valley History Museum.

3

PALM SPRINGS (23mi/37km; 27min). Go retro with cool jazz at Ingleside Inn piano bar, once a Sinatra hangout. Take a guided Modern Tour to see midcentury architecture. Soar into cool mountains aboard Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

4

YUCCA VALLEY (27mi/44km; 35min). Enjoy funky antique shops and quirky art galleries in town.

Visit Pioneertown, a shoot-em-up movie set built in the 1940s.

5

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK (27mi/44km; 33min). Shinny up granite monoliths at this rock climbing hot spot; lessons are available.

Take a guided tour of Keys Ranch (Fri–Sun) to get a taste of pioneer life in the desert.

6

MOJAVE NATIONAL PRESERVE (108mi/173km; 2hr31min).

Bound down the sand at Kelso Dunes to hear it “sing” (the sound is caused by friction). Nearby, explore limestone caves in Mitchell Caverns Natural Preserve.

7

28 visitcalifornia.com

DEATH VALLEY JUNCTION (178mi/286km; 4hr11min). Catch a show at elaborate Amargosa Opera House; the owner, a former Broadway dancer, paints the murals.

8

FURNACE CREEK/DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK (30mi/49km; 34min). Start at the visitor center to get oriented in this massive park. Climb sand dunes near Stovepipe Wells, or tour mysterious Scotty’s Castle.

9

RED ROCK CANYON STATE PARK (170mi/273km; 3hr4min).

See the canyon, with unique cliffs of pink, white, red, and brown. In fall and spring, join a guided nature hike to learn how wildlife thrives in the desert.

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END: LOS ANGELES (128mi/206km; 2hr)

Mark Your Calendar COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL

Plan well in advance (it sells out fast) to see huge names in rock, indie, hip-hop, and electronica.

Apr 10–12, 17–19, 2015; coachella.com

Local Resources CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTERS

Alpine 5005 Willows Rd., Ste. H110; 619/445-0180 Yucca Valley 56711 Twentynine Palms Hwy.; 760/365-5464

TUNE IN WITH SPOTIFY

Get inspired with a song custom picked for this drive.

SONG 12 visitcalifornia.com/playlist

HARRIOT MANLEY (2)

BEST OF THE DESERTS

Here, It's Everywhere

To launch your visit, contact us at palm-desert.org or call 800.873.2428. We’d love to have you.

Hidden Oasis.

Around every corner a new adventure. Down every path, a new discovery.

Find your oasis.

Plan Your Next Getaway

visitgreaterpalmsprings.com