How to See California’s Majesty in 3 Days
Of the 50 states within America, California is one of the most famous and for good reason! With an extraordinarily diverse population, lots of economic power, and plenty of both natural and man made wonders, it’s no surprise that people want to visit from all around the world. Yet, California is also one of the largest states in the U.S. how can you ensure you see what you need to in an optimized amount of time so that you can also tour more of the country? The answer lies with Empire Vacations’ California Express trip which gives you a three day journey through the highlights of The Golden State.
The California Express tour is year round but split between Winter and Summer Itineraries. Winter runs from November 1st to March 31st while the Summer runs from April 1st to October 31st. These tours have certain differences but both will allow you to explore Cali to its fullest.
On the first day, regardless of season, your tour will depart from Los Angeles and make its way to Santa Barbara. Here you will get to explore the area and learn about the history of California and the city’s role in turning it into the bustling super state it is today. If you are on the Winter tour, you will take a more in depth adventure through Santa Barbara with trips through exclusive shops and restaurants. You will also be given time to see the beaches and partake in the Stearns Wharf “Walk on the water” event for an additional fun experience!
Both tours then link again as you travel to Solvang, a Danish community with specialized architecture, shops, and culturally significant tales. Absorb the culture around you before continuing your journey. If you are on the Winter tour, your day ends as you head through Silicon Valley to your overnight destination. If you are on the Summer tour you will travel along the famous Route #1 to see Cali’s Coastline up close! You will then visit the town of Carmel which is where the famous western movie actor Clint Eastwood was born!
Day 2 will be the same regardless of season. You will be able to explore San Francisco! One of the most rich and fascinating cities in the U.S. This day is all about the big city, tour famed landmarks such as City Hall, The Painted Ladies, Lombard Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf! Then you’ll be taking a cruise through the bay, make sure to check out Alcatraz as you sail! Immerse yourself in all that San Francisco has to offer before wrapping up with a satisfying evening view of the Golden Gate Bridge. As you look out, it will be hard to feel unsatisfied with your action packed day.
The last day holds a sizable difference between the seasons. If you are on the Winter tour, you will visit Monterey and see the wharf along with Cannery Row. Witness how it changed from a sardine factory into a stunning attraction for visitors to enjoy as they learn of the storied history waiting to be told. While the summer tour holds Yosemite Falls, in the winter it is covered in snow, lots and lots of snow. So instead, you will be able to visit Henry Cowell State Park, home to gigantic sequoia trees so large you can take pictures inside of them (Yes, really! In fact, you will be able to go inside one on the tour itself! They can fit three whole people at once!) If you felt you were missing out on Carmel and Route #1 then have no fear! You will be able to partake in these activities on Day 3 which will make up the remainder of this day before you return to Los Angeles to wrap up your adventure.
If you are on the Summer tour, your day will be much different. You and your group will journey east through Joaquin Valley and into Yosemite National Park! Here, you will get in touch with nature as your exploration shows you forest trails, clear blue lakes, and cascading waterfalls. There are stops located at several key locations within the park, but all pale in comparison to Yosemite Falls, the place with the highest waterfalls in all of North America! Seeing these beautiful sights will conclude your 3 day trip through California’s wondrous state.
And so, if you’re looking to see all the best parts of California, in a few short days then the California Express trip might be your answer. From the brilliance of the shining cities to the quiet of the calm countryside, this trip promises to answer the adventurer spirit inside us all.