California

I’m (Katie) born and raised in California. People come from all over the world to experience our sunshine, famous theme parks like Disneyland, stunning beaches and surf, wine country, celebrity spotting in places like Hollywood, and so much more.  The most popular destinations include San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Orange County, and San Diego. I’ve been to all of them more times than I can count. We have a lot of tools and content on this site, whether you’re a resident looking for things to do or planning a California trip. Resources include discounted theme park tickets and access to VIP amenities at California’s best hotels and resorts.

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    A list of the best Knott's Berry Farm rides to enjoy during your day at this popular theme park

    10 Best Knott’s Berry Farm Rides That You Can’t Miss

    A list of the best Knott’s Berry Farm rides to enjoy during your day at this popular theme park.

    A list of over 30 FUN things to do in Los Angeles with kids from beaches to theme parks to museums.

    Over 30 Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles With Kids

    Your family will not run out of things to do in Los Angeles with kids between its museums, beaches, theme parks and more. These are our favorites.

    Ferris wheels and coaster on Santa Monica pier.

    15 Best Theme Parks and Amusement Parks in California

    Find fun rides, food, characters and more at 15 of the best theme parks in California (amusement parks, too) from San Diego to Northern CA and in between.

    People in the front row of the Mummy ride at Universal Studios Hollywood

    10 Best Universal Studios Hollywood Rides That You Can’t Miss

    From family-friendly to 4D, here are the Universal Studios Hollywood rides to add to your list for the most fun day ever (and how to skip lines).

    Outdoor seating area round a fire pit at L Horizon Resort and Spa in Palm Springs

    12 Best Hotels in Palm Springs, California for Families, Couples & Golf

    A list of the 12 best Palm Springs hotels from large kid-friendly resorts to hip boutique properties for your next desert getaway.

    A vineyard that you can explore from Temecula hotels.

    10 Best Hotels in Temecula, CA: Old Town and Winery Options for Your Trip

    Best Temecula hotels include winery hotels, Pechanga resort casino, a historic inn and more to suit your relaxing getaway just north of San Diego.

    Princess Jasmine meets a guest at Napa Rose restaurant during Disneyland character dining.

    Disneyland Character Dining: Which Restaurant Should You Choose?

    We break down Disneyland character dining so that you can pick the magical experience that’s right for your Disney vacation.

    People enjoying the Santa Cruz beach with the boardwalk rollercoaster in the background.

    15 Best Kid-Friendly Beaches in California for Families

    With more than 1,000 miles of coastline, CA is home to some of the finest beaches. Here’s my list of the best family-friendly beaches in California.

    Buy Six Flags Magic Mountain discount tickets

    How to Buy Discount Six Flags Magic Mountain Tickets: 8 Cheaper Ways

    Only a few places sell Six Flags Magic Mountain discount tickets online. I’m sharing them below so that you can ride these crazy roller coasters for less.

    Knott's Berry Farm Discount Tickets

    How to Buy Discount Knott’s Berry Farm Tickets: 11 Ways to Save

    We researched the most reliable places to get cheaper Knott’s Berry Farm tickets from sightseeing and annual passes to 1-Day discounts.

    The outdoor pool at Hyatt Regency Valencia

    10 Best Hotels Near Six Flags Magic Mountain

    Close and cheap hotels near Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia or Santa Clarita California with free shuttles, free breakfast, more.

    The lobby chandelier with flower vases on a table at Beverly Wilshire

    Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel Review & VIP Guide

    What to know before booking Beverly Wilshire hotel from a repeat guest including which rooms to pick and how to check in as a Four Seasons Preferred Partner guest.