California has a lot more to offer besides Disneyland. While Disneyland may be the first stop for most visitors, California has many other exciting places you should check out. From nature parks to sci-fi museums and film studios, the Golden State is full of attractions that are just as exciting as Disneyland. So, if you’re in California and looking for other things to do besides the famous amusement park, keep reading. In this blog post, we will discuss six exciting things to do that aren’t Disneyland when visiting California.
Visit the Golden Gate Park and Bridge
The Golden Gate Park and Bridge is a majestic landmark synonymous with San Francisco. The park is home to acres of lush greenery and scenic paths for visitors to hike, bike, or picnic. The Golden Gate Bridge, on the other hand, offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay. It’s the perfect place to take memorable photos and experience the beauty of San Francisco.
Explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame
If you’re a movie or Hollywood enthusiast, exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame should be on your list. The walk is home to over 2,500 stars that showcase some of the most celebrated talents of the entertainment industry. You can take a guided tour of the walk and learn its history. You may even come across some iconic movie props as you explore the area. You can also visit the historic TCL Chinese Theatre just across the street.
Journey Through the USS Midway Museum
The USS Midway Museum is an excellent stop for those who have an interest in military history. The museum is home to the USS Midway aircraft carrier, which served in the US Navy during the Korean War and Vietnam War. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the carrier, learn about its history, and see the various planes it carried during its time. It’s an experience you’ll always remember.
Go Camping at Joshua Tree National Park
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then Joshua Tree National Park is the perfect place for you. The park is home to a diverse landscape of Joshua trees and rock formations, making it ideal for camping and hiking. Visitors can also go stargazing, check out the different bird species in the park, and experience the unspoiled beauty of the desert.
Explore the Tech Museum of Innovation
The Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose represents the intersection of technology, science, and society. Visitors can learn about innovative advances, ranging from virtual reality to robot technology to computing devices, among other things. The museum also offers interactive exhibits perfect for families and education groups. One of the most popular attractions at the Tech Museum is the Bio Design Studio, where visitors can learn about biotechnology and participate in hands-on activities. Additionally, the museum has a specific area dedicated to space exploration, featuring a moon rock on display.
The Tech Museum of Innovation, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Visit the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
This unique museum houses one of the largest collections of Ancient Egyptian artifacts in Western North America. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase ancient artifacts such as mummies, sarcophagi, and other relics from Ancient Egypt. The highlight of this museum is its replica tomb of King Tutankhamun, which allows visitors to take a step back in time and experience what it was like to be inside an ancient Egyptian tomb.
Visit the Local Redwood Forests
The Bay Area is home to some of the oldest and tallest trees on Earth – the majestic redwoods. These trees can reach impressive heights, making them an awe-inspiring sight for nature lovers. The best way to experience these forests is by visiting one of the many state or national parks home to these magnificent trees. Some popular destinations include Muir Woods National Monument, Redwood Regional Park, and Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Explore Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the largest and oldest in North America, offering a unique cultural experience for visitors. Here, you can stroll through colorful streets lined with traditional Chinese architecture, browse markets selling exotic foods and goods, and try authentic Chinese cuisine. Popular attractions in Chinatown include the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, the Chinese Historical Society Museum, and the Dragon’s Gate entrance. Visiting Chinatown can be especially magical during Lunar New Year.
California is a destination that offers so much more than Disneyland. Whether you want to explore the great outdoors or learn more about the entertainment industry’s history, the Golden State has something for everyone. With the six exciting things to do we have discussed in this blog post, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in California, aside from Disneyland. So, the next time you plan a trip to California, remember to add these destinations to your itinerary for a fun-filled visit full of memory-making experiences. There are many companies, like Parlor Car Tours, that offer guided tours through many of California’s historic and tourist spots.
Author Bio
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being outdoors and researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook right here and Twitter right here.
