Set along the ocean, with rolling hills and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States and the jewel of Northern California. The city is full of history, great neighborhoods, parks, beaches, museums, and a whole host of entertainment options and things to do. Some of the most famous attractions are Alcatraz Island and Fisherman's Wharf, but the sightseeing possibilities here are extensive. San Francisco's Chinatown is the largest of its kind in North America and definitely worth visiting. For an interesting experience, hop on one of the historic cable cars and tour the city. San Francisco is less than an hour of a drive from San Jose!
The capital of Spanish California from 1770 to 1882, Monterey is a small city with many historical sites and modern attractions. At one time, Monterey was an important city in the fish canning industry, but that all collapsed with the disappearance of the sardine. Cannery Row, originally the fish packing area, is now a beautiful restored neighborhood, with shops and restaurants. Also along the waterfront are Fisherman's Wharf and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Nearby, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Carmel and 17-Mile Drive offer some lovely coastal scenery. Plan your visit with our list of top attractions in Monterey.
Yosemite Valley, CA, USA An icon of America’s majestic natural beauty, California’s Yosemite National Park welcomes millions of visitors each year—drawn to its dramatic waterfalls, giant sequoias, abundant wildlife, and awe-inspiring cliffs, like Half Dome and El Capitan. Whether you’re looking for the adventure vacation of a lifetime, want to immerse yourself in the stillness of nature—or simply hike, backpack or ski in one of the most beautiful places on earth, you’ll find your place in Yosemite. Yosemite Valley is 3.5 hours from San Jose!
No other wine region on the planet draws as much attention or visitors as Napa Valley. It's visited by some five million people every year, making it the second most visited tourist destination in California (Disneyland is # 1). Perfect for a day or weekend trip from San Francisco, Napa Valley awards one with beautiful scenery, exceptional wineries, and world-renowned wines. Napa Valley is home to over 400 wineries! Napa Valley is 1.5 hours away from San Jose!
Go there for their happy hour and score the wild child drink! Don & I's latest rave as our top drinks. What's in it? A cocktail made with watermelon, mint, vodka, Chareau Aloe Liqueur, Rosé, lemon juice, and simple syrup; while the New Dehli Sunrise spices it up with a scratch made rich garam masala syrup, rose water, spiced rum, white rum, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and mint
Lou Anne hates pies - except Gizdich Pies! The only pie she'd have. Drive along the coast or go through the greener parts of the bay area when heading to Gizdich Ranch. Make sure to order Double Berry Dutch Apple with side of vanilla ice cream. Yum!
This is one of the restaurants we explored and faved during the pandemic. When the restrictions were lifted, we were finally able to dine in and it didn't disappoint. Awesome meat selection, fun vibes, good cocktails.