Full of trolley cars, charming districts and striking architecture, San Francisco is a delightful combination of big city bustle and scenic wonder. Home to art galleries, entertainment scions, restaurants and billion-dollar businesses, its rich history includes Spanish forts, gold rushes, earthquakes and flower children, while its population is diverse as one could ever imagine.
But beyond the city limits—just one tank away, in fact—are a bevy of museums, unique landmarks, natural wonders and much, much more. And whether you’re enjoying the heat of summer or the cool fall air, you’re not going to want to miss taking it all in.
KOAs along the way:
Places To See And Things To Do:
Santa RosaCharles M. Schultz Museum – Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the gang are all waiting at this museum, home to over 6,000 C.M. Schultz cartoon drawings, personal memorabilia, photographs and more.
Ft. Bragg/WillitsSkunk Train – Climb aboard and prepare for a trip you won’t soon forget and travel in restored railroad cars along the Redwood Route first established in 1885.
UkiahMontgomery Woods State Park – Catch a glimpse of the world’s tallest tree nestled in a grove of coastal redwoods and lush ferns.
ChicoPublic Art Collection – The City of Chico has been called one of the best small art towns in the United States. From Dancing Trout to The Spiral, you’ll be fascinated with the city’s public art collection.
Places To Eat:
MendocinoCafé Beaujolais – A 2011 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner, this French-inspired eatery offers an extensive wine list as well as a critically acclaimed menu.
Santa RosaLa Texanita – Guy Fieri calls this Mexican restaurant with it’s “everything from scratch” philosophies one of the best in his hometown. The tortillas are a must!
Santa RosaAQUS Café – Enjoy Saturday morning music, philosophical discussions and/ or improve comedy alongside locally produced artisan foods and beverages. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
Point ArenaFranny’s Cup & Saucer – Offering an array of sweet and savory pastries as well as cookies, cakes and handmade chocolates, Franny’s is a fun stop for all ages.
KOAs along the way:
Places To See And Things To Do:
San JoseWinchester Mystery House – Staircases leading into walls and secret passageways combine with stunning parquet floors and Tiffany glass in this bizarre historical attraction. Feeling brave? Book a flashlight tour held during October.
PescaderoNatural Bridges State Beach -The perfect spot for whale and bird watching, the beach comes to life October through February, when colorful Monarch butterflies migrate in for the winter.
Santa CruzMystery Spot – Ever see a ball roll uphill? Located in redwood forests, this spot has captured attention and imaginations since 1940. Open daily.
MontereyCannery Row – Stroll along the waterfront made famous by John Steinbeck, now featuring award-winning restaurants, eye-catching galleries and the acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Places To Eat:
San JoseFalafel Drive-In – Since 1966, this local favorite has been serving up falafels and tabbouleh alongside classic hamburgers and onion rings. Make sure to try their fresh banana shakes!
SalinasSalinas Valley Fish House – The seasonal specialties served in this family-owned restaurant feature items fresh from the field or fresh from the sea. Homemade pasta, exceptional seafood, steak and poultry make this restaurant a well-priced option for a nice evening out.
MontereyCampagnos Market & Deli – When’s the last time you grabbed a Torpedo, some Crawtators and a slice of Double Fudge Snickers Cake? If you haven’t lately, you’ve got to get lunch at this Upper Monterey Bay deli, a 40-year neighborhood favorite.
CarmelLugano Swiss Bistro – Fondue, Schnitzel, Bratwurst and maybe a little accordion music are just a short drive away at this Switzerland-themed eatery. Reservations suggested.
KOAs along the way:
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Sacramento River/Delta Stockton Delta Sacramento West/Old Town Placerville |
Lake Tahoe Yosemite West/Mariposa Yosemite South/Coarsegoald Reno |
Places To See And Things To Do:
SacramentoOld Sacramento – Take a step back in time to the early days of California’s golden age. Tour military, auto and railroad museums, see the Pony Express monument or take in a show. There’s always something happening in Old Sacramento!
LodiLodi Wineries – With its Mediterranean climate, this area not only includes 5 major wineries, but also 70 boutique wineries offering award-winning, small batch vintages.
OakhurstChildren’s Museum of the Sierra – Little campers (2-12 years) will get hands on have hands-on fun as they learn about natural history, medicine, archeology, communication and art.
YosemiteYosemite National Park – Open year round, is best known for its dynamic waterfalls and breathtaking views.
Places To Eat:
SacramentoChicago Fire – Thin, stuffed or authentic deep dish can all be found at Chicago Fire. In the mood for something a little sweeter? Grab a chocolate chip pizza topped with ice cream!
Fair OaksSunflower Drive-In – Carnivores just might change their mind when they try a Sunflower nut burger! Fresh juices, smoothies and shakes also available.
StocktonRevolucion 1910 – Revolutionize your taste buds with authentic Mexican cuisine, made with only the freshest ingredients. We suggest the Tacos Al Pastor.
LodiPietros – Served family style, Pietro brings a taste of Italy to the Delta, including their signature pancetta prawns over risotto. Molto deliziosa!
Well if you’ve made it this far, we recommend you take a day at the beach – relax and enjoy a little sunshine!
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