California Staycation: 7 Fun Things to Do While Staying Close to Home

Although the weather can get chilly in northern parts of the the beautiful Golden State, California has so much to offer families planning a vacation or staycation. From its major theme parks and potential sightings of Hollywood stars to the spectacular beaches, families on a staycation will have plenty to enjoy.

Here are seven great places to visit in California:

1. San Francisco: This fun and exciting northern California city is set on the tip of a peninsula in the San Francisco Bay Area. The Golden Gate Bridge is the city's number one attraction. Visitors can also visit Chinatown, which is the largest outside of Asia, Fisherman's Wharf and Alcatraz Island.

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2. Yosemite National Park: This stunning region, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of central eastern California, is beloved for its granite cliffs, giant sequoias, thunderous waterfalls and diverse animal and plant life. Visitors can hike along the 800 miles of trails or drive along scenic routes. Attractions include Glacier Point, the nature center and Yosemite Museum.

3. Los Angeles: Considered the second largest city in the U.S. located in southern California surrounded by the Pacific Coast, mountains and valleys. Visitors can visit eclectic Venice Beach and Malibu, the movie star playground. There are also well-known amusement parks like Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood and Knott's Berry Farm. Families on vacation or staycation can explore all the city has to offer.

4. Death Valley: Considered the driest and lowest place in North America, Death Valley encompasses much of the Death Valley National Park and is a famous tourist destination. The region offers a variety of outdoor activities, historic sites and nature viewing, like Scotty's Castle, the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns and ghost towns.

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5. San Diego: San Diego is one of the most popular places to visit in California. The San Diego Zoo, located in Balboa Park, is a must-see for the whole family. The city is home to other famous attractions like SeaWorld San Diego and the Birch Aquarium.

6. Santa Barbara: This charming coastal city is referred to as “The American Riviera,” offers beautiful beaches and is a popular getaway spot for Los Angeles residents. The city’s most popular attractions are its Stearns Wharf and the Mission Santa Barbara, a Spanish outpost founded by the Franciscan order in 1786.

7. Palm Springs: Palm Springs has long been a popular winter playground for the rich and famous. It’s sunny for approximately 350 days of the year and during the winter months, the area enjoys mild daytime highs in the mid 60s. A popular pastime here is golfing at one of the city’s many golf courses and driving ranges. Palm Springs is also home to many fine-dining restaurants and to a large number of bars, clubs and casinos.

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