Laura & Iain
Things To Do
Sequoia National Park
Take the 198 East and it will wind you up the foothills, through the town of Three Rivers, and right into Sequoia National Park. From Visalia, it is about a 1 hour drive to the park entrance and another 1 hour to the famous General Sherman Tree. Depending on snow, tire chains *MAY* be required. You can rent from your rental car agency, or while you are in Three Rivers. The nice people in Three Rivers will help you install them. On your way through Three Rivers, stop for lunch at Sierra Subs (top ranked sandwich shop in the nation on Yelp), and grab a beer at Three Rivers Brewing. Alternatively, stop in at Riverview Bar & Grill and have a drink right on the river. It will be cold in the mountains - bring a winter jacket, hat & gloves.
Yosemite National Park
If you've never visited Yosemite, don't miss this chance while you are close by. Reservations are currenlty required through the end of October. Check up on the status of this frequently and be mindful of when reservations are released. If reservations continue to be required, you will need to plan ahead and secure your ticket a month in advance, at least. Snow chains may be required.
Pismo Beach
Can't come to California without seeing the Pacific? Pismo Beach is the closest beach to Visalia. Head to Pismo and take a walk down the pier, explore the shops, and enjoy your day at the coast. The water will be freezing, so swimming isn't a realistic option. You'll drive through the beautiful Paso Robles Wine Country and pass by Cal Poly on your way there as well.
Cracked Crab
Want to see the ocean and hit up a fun, kid-friendly seafood restaurant too? The Cracked Crab is a casual joint featuring paper tablecloths and crayons (let's be real, adults love this too). Laura recommends getting the bucket option, where they cook any seafood you pick, put it in a bucket, and then dump it on the table in front of you.
Splash Café Pismo Beach
If you're headed to Pismo, you will see a dozen places advertising the 'best clam chowder'. This one is THE BEST. Make sure to get it in a bread bowl! There will likely be a line around the corner, but it's worth the wait.
DAOU Vineyards & Winery
Looking to do some California wine tasting? You don't have to go all the way to Napa to get great wine here. Paso Robles is the best kept secret of the Central Coast. An easy drive from Visalia, it makes a great day trip. Daou Winery is one of my favorites, and has the BEST view in all of Paso.
Bruce Munro: Field of Light At Sensorio
If you find yourself in Paso Robles in the evening, I highly recommend stopping at the Sensorio exhibit. It is a field full of millions of color-changing lights. The effect is impossible to describe in words, you really have to see it for yourself. I recommend planning ahead and purchasing tickets at least 1 week in advance.
BarrelHouse Brewing Visalia
This is where we went on our first date, and it's one of our favorite local spots. Great local beer, indoor shuffleboard, board games, and outdoor area with cornhole and food trucks.
The Planing Mill Artisan Pizzeria
Craft beers and creative pizzas! Walking distance from downtown Visalia.
Exeter
Need something to do the morning of the wedding? Drive out to Exeter and take a walk around downtown. The town is covered in beautiful murals and the streets are lined with antique shops and boutiques. Grab a classic diner breakfast at the Whistle Stop, swing through Exeter Coffee Company for a latte, visit Wildflower Cafe for a fantastic sandwich or salad, or stop at El Taco Man on your way into town for some authentic tacos or tostadas!
Rocky Hill Drive
Looking to get out of the hotel and work off the festivities of the weekend? Rocky Hill is the to-go spot for a run, walk, or bike ride. Not feeling a walk? Take a (careful) drive to the top of Rocky Hill for a beautiful view of the Central Valley and the Exeter orange groves. To get there: Take 198 East. Take 65 South to Exeter. Once you hit town, turn left on Rocky Hill Drive. Go straight at the stop sign. You will be at the base of the hill, where there is parking.