Adventure
Angeles National Forest Escape the metropolitan sprawl of Los Angeles; cast a line in Jackson Lake to catch trout; rent a horse to ride up to Big Pines; see the highest point along the San Andreas Fault. 701 N. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia, CA; +1 626 574 1613. Fee.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Camp in Borrego Palm Canyon; listen to the lonely coyotes as they howl at the expansive night sky; hike the Narrows Earth trail and admire the purple desert wildflowers. 200 Palm Canyon Dr., Borrego Springs, CA; +1 760 767 5311. Fee.
California Cavern State Historic Landmark Raft across the underground Tom's Lake; crawl and squeeze through the Mammoth Cave; see still-growing stalactites; marvel at the crystal vines that adorn the walls. 9565 Cave City Rd., Mountain Ranch, CA; 866 762 2837. Fee.
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area Hike up to the San Marco pass; stop at the scenic viewing areas to spot one of the local eagles; take a scenic tour on the Osprey, a cruiser that circles the lake; rent a yurt, a cross between a tent and a teepee, to camp along the waterfront. HC 59-Hwy 154, Santa Barbara, CA; +1 805 686 5054. Fee.
Crystal Cove State Park Catch a wave at Reef Point; trek one of the dozens of wooded trails along the shore of this secluded beach; explore the tide pools and sandy coves that showcase colorful starfish. 8471 Pacific Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, CA; +1 949 494 3539.
La Jolla Cove Admire the iridescent blue water; scuba dive or snorkel in the cove; have a picnic in nearby Scripps Park. 1100 Coast Blvd., San Diego, CA.
Lake Tahoe Ride the Heavenly Gondola to the top of the mountain for a spectacular view of the valley; shred the slopes at Squaw Valley resort or one of the countless other ski attractions; hike and camp among the wildlife along the 71 miles of shoreline. Fee.
Lassen Volcanic National Park Take the Bumpass Hell boardwalk over bubbling mud and steaming springs; hike to the top of still active Lassen Peak to examine the massive damage from its 1915 eruption; camp beside the 400-ton Hot Rock and the hydrothermal vents that surround it. 38050 Hwy. 36E, Mineral, CA; +1 530 595 4444. Fee.
Lava Beds National Monument Climb down into one of the geological wonders known as a lava tube; watch cinder cones as they splatter lava; hike through craters; admire the wildflowers as they sprout from recently cooled lava flows. 1 Indian Wells, Tutelake, CA; +1 530 667 8100. Fee.
Mammoth Lakes Hit the slopes on the 11,053-foot Mammoth Mountain; take the panorama gondola up to the peak to see the inactive volcanic crater; during warmer seasons fish for freshwater trout in Lake June or rent a boat for some wakeboarding in the shadow of giant mountains. Hwy. 395, Mono County, CA; 888 466 2666. Fee.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Ride a cable car to the top of Mount San Jacinto State Park; enjoy a view that stretches 75 miles to the Salton Sea; rent cross-country skis or snowshoes during winter for an exciting ride down the slopes. 1 Tramway Rd., Palm Springs, CA; +1 760 325 1391. Fee.
Pinnacles National Monument Admire the remains of the ancient volcano that once dominated this stretch of the Gabilan Mountains; explore Bear Gulch cave; hike up to Pinnacle Rock for a chance to see one of the endangered California condors that inhabit the area. 5000 Hwy. 146, Paicines, CA; +1 831 389 4485. Fee.
Point Lobos State Reserve Follow the Cypress Grove Trail to a secluded forest of Monterey Cypress; take the Sea Lion Point Trail to see some of the creatures playing on the beach; rent scuba equipment and check out the 750 acres of underwater marine preserve. Hwy 1, Carmel, CA; +1 831 624 4909. Fee.
Salton Sea Discover one of the world's largest inland seas; catch a gulf croaker; put on your skis for some on the water fun; relax and float on the super-buoyant surface of this extra salty sea. 100-225 State Park Rd. North Shore, CA; +1 760 393 3052. Fee.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Explore the subterranean depths of Crystal Cave; trek up to the peak of Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States; hike into Kings Canyon and admire the huge Sequoias of Giant Forest; photograph a peregrine falcon as it dives through the air to catch its prey. 47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA; +1 559 565 3341. Fee.
Shasta-Trinity National Forest Angle for steelhead and salmon; try to make it to the peak of the 14,162-foot Mount Shasta for a stunning panorama of the area; hit the slopes at the Board and Ski Park; spend the night camping under the stars along the shoreline of the Iron Canyon Reservoir. 3644 Avtech Parkway, Redding, CA; +1 530 226 2500. Fee.
Animals
Aquarium of the Bay Watch a leopard shark stalk its prey; walk through the two crystal-clear tunnel, traveling underneath 700,000 gallons of Bay water; observe 23,000 different aquatic animals; see what a bat ray or leopard shark feels like at the touch pool. Pier 39, San Francisco, CA; 888 SEA DIVE. Fee.
Aquarium of the Pacific Examine how the exotic lionfish and other marine animals use poison to survive their rugged environments; visit Shark Lagoon to touch a zebra shark; marvel at one of the other 150 species on display. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA; +1 562 590 3100. Fee.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Explore a giant underwater kelp forest; learn about various sea creatures; journey into a shark reef. 2300 Expedition Way, San Diego, CA; +1 858 534 3474. Fee.
California Living Museum View turkey vultures up close; come face to face with a gila monster in the reptile house; explore the children's discovery rooms and their interactive exhibits. 10500 Alfred Harrell Hwy., Bakersfield, CA; +1 661 872 2256. Fee.
Fisherman's Wharf Watch lounging sea lions while you walk along the pier; sign up for a whale-watching trip to see the humpbacks at play; cast a line and try to catch a giant mackerel. End of Calle Principal, Monterey, CA; +1 831 649 1646. Fee.
Fresno Chaffee Zoo Envy the Asian elephants as they cool off in the exhibit's waterfall and pool. Venture into Wolf Woods; marvel at the Winged Wonders bird show; lift your eyes to see South American monkeys running overhead through the 55-foot-high Tropical Rainforest Habitat. 894 West Bellmont Ave., Fresno, CA; +1 559 498 2761. Fee.
Living Desert Reserve Groom a dwarf African goat at the replica Village WaTuTu; hike along the path of the San Andreas fault; see a family of reticulated giraffes as they roam the desert habitat; crawl in underground tunnels at the Gecko Gulch Children's Play Land. 47-900 Portola Ave., Indian Wells, CA; +1 760 346 5694. Fee.
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens Get inspired to preserve wildlife and habitats by visiting the adorably charming but rare mountain tapir; plunge through tropical foliage to emerge at the excellent gorilla, orangutan, and chimp habitats; stroll cautiously through an enormous tropical flight enclosure where spoonbills, ibises, and turacos soar above. 5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 644 4200. Fee.
Micke Grove Park & Zoo Visit the Japanese gardens for a cup of green tea; head to the Madagascar exhibit to see hissing cockroaches and other species unique to that island. Especially well suited for younger children. 11793 N. Micke Grove Rd., Lodi, CA; +1 209 953 8800. Fee.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Immerse yourself in the area's marine wildlife; visit the three-story kelp forest; tickle a bat ray at the ocean touch tank; watch sharks in their natural environment at the million-gallon "Outer Bay" exhibit. 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA; +1 831 648 4800. Fee.
The Oakland Zoo Observe tigers, bison, elk, and lions with a bird's eye view from the Sky Ride; scale giant tortoise shells; pet goats and sheep; ogle the six-foot wingspan of Southeast Asia's flying foxes (a species of bat) at the Valley Children's Zoo. 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland, CA; +1 510 632 9525. Fee.
Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rock Visit Piedras Blancas Lighthouse and take in an aerial view of over ten thousand seals as they live and play along this coastline. 250 San Simeon Ave., San Simeon, CA; +1 805 924 1628.
Sacramento Zoo Meet a Sumatran tiger, a white-handed gibbon or countless other endangered and rare species; get close, but not too close, to the jumping pit vipers in the reptile house; watch the antics of the river otters as they play in their natural habitat. 3930 West Land Park Dr., Sacramento, CA; +1 916 808 5888. Fee.
San Diego Zoo Watch mighty lions prowl; scout out the famous giant pandas; walk through the Rain Forest Aviary to see comb-crested jacanas fly overhead; visit the Absolutely Apes exhibit to hang with orangutans. 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego, CA; +1 619 234 3153. Fee.
San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park See Indian rhinos up-close on the Photo Caravan Safari; learn about elephants at the Asian habitat's elephant show; pretend you're in Africa at the authentic and picturesque Congo River Fishing Village, modeled after an actual African locale. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido, CA; +1 760 747 8702. Fee.
San Francisco Zoo Come eyeball to eyeball with one of our closest animal relatives at the Gorilla Preserve; visit the African savanna to see giraffes, zebra, and kudu; marvel at extremely rare cats like the snow leopard at the Feline Conservation Center. 1 Zoo Rd., San Francisco, CA; +1 415 753 7080. Fee.
Santa Barbara Zoo Come eyeball to eyeball with Baringo giraffes and feed them snacks; ride the zoo train and see gorillas from the perimeter of the park. 500 Niños Dr., Santa Barbara, CA; +1 805 962 5339. Fee.
SeaWorld See Shamu dazzle in the new killer whale show "Believe" and get up close and personal with a white-tip shark at Shark Encounter. 500 SeaWorld Dr., San Diego, CA; 800 257 4268. Fee.
Culture
Antelope Valley Indian Museum Visit this museum full of early American folk art; explore artifacts collected from the Great Basin Indians and other local archaeological discoveries. Avenue M, LA County, CA; + 1 661 942 0662. Fee.
The Bay Area Discovery Museum Discover the unique features of the Bay Area at this museum especially well suited for youngsters; learn to use scientific instruments; see how the wildlife of the bay adapted to the building of the Golden Gate Bridge at the Wave Workshop; explore woodland, creek, and meadow environments at the outdoor Tot Spot. 557 McReynolds Rd., Sausalito, CA; +1 415 339 3900. Fee.
Bowers Museum of Cultural Art Explore this museum highlighting native art of the Americas; head to the Kidseum to create your own "Artyfact;" have your face painted in Native American designs. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA; +1 714 567 3600. Fee.
California African-American Museum Learn about the unique experience of African-Americans living in South Central Los Angeles; see sculpture from the African Diaspora and paintings from the emancipation period. 600 State Dr., Los Angeles, CA; +1 213 744 7432. Fee.
Carriage and Western Art Museum See carriages of every function and style, from Police "cars" to circus vehicles; view the saddles of famous figures like the Cisco Kid and Will Rogers. 129 Castillo St., Santa Barbara, CA; +1 805 962 2353.
Cartoon Art Museum Discover the history of famous cartoons; glimpse historic prints from Batman to Zippy the Pinhead; follow the history of comics in the United States featuring Krazy Kat and Charles Schultz's Peanuts. 655 Mission St., San Francisco, CA; +1 415 227 8666. Fee.
Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert Traverse the tricky rope maze; learn about gravity at the How Things Work exhibit; try rock climbing on the miniature rock wall; build your masterpiece on the magnetic sculpture exhibit. Well suited for children aged 2 through 10. 71-701 Gerald Ford Dr., Rancho Mirage, CA; +1 760 321 0602. Fee.
The Children's Museum at La Habra Blow a human-size bubble; take a spin on the carousel; pretend you're a bus driver when you get behind the wheel of Buster the Bus. 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra, CA; +1 562 905 9793. Fee.
Children's Museum of Stockton Practice being a postman, a bank teller, or a doctor in the museum's micro town; learn the history of Vietnam through fascinating dragon and fairy folktales. 402 W. Weber Ave., Stockton, CA; +1 209 465 4386. Fee.
Chinatown Enter the iconic Chinatown gate to visit the best-known Chinese community in the United States; visit an array of shops and restaurants; tour the Fortune Cookie factory to see how the treats are made. 56 Ross Alley, San Francisco, CA; +1 415 781 3956.
Crocker Art Museum Admire the works of European masters like Pieter Brueghel and or Philippe de Champaigne; explore the works of more contemporary Californian artists; tour the massive collection of East Asian ceramics. 216 O St., Sacramento, CA; +1 916 264 5423. Fee.
Fisherman's Wharf Watch the watermen and their fleets at work at this busy port attraction; gobble the freshest of seafood from street vendors; visit the Musee Mecanique's antique arcade amusements; take a tour of the USS Pampanito to see what life aboard a World War II submarine was like. Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA; +1 415 674 7503. Fee.
Forestiere Underground Gardens Take a subterranean journey to the Mediterranean without leaving the San Joaquin Valley; explore citrus farmer Baldasare Forestiere's underground home; see a citrus tree bearing seven different kinds of fruit; marvel at the grottoes, Roman arches, and other architectural feats that adorn this underground engineering masterpiece. 5021 W. Shaw Ave., Fresno, CA; +1 559 271 0734. Fee.
Fresno Metropolitan Museum of Art and Science Admire the clever puzzle collection; make a pinhole camera; snap a shot of the Feathered Dinosaur exhibit. 933 Van Ness Ave., Fresno, CA; +1 559 441 1444. Fee.
The Getty Center Admire masterpieces from Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Monet; stroll through the sculpture gardens and gaze out onto a panoramic view of the city framed by an underwater azalea maze. 1200 Getty Center Dr., Los Angeles, CA; +1 310 440 7300. Fee.
The Getty Villa Enjoy the collection of J. Paul Getty and the others who have expanded this gathering of ancient artifacts; see sculptures and friezes depicting the story of the Trojan war; admire statues of Dionysus and other gods. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, CA; +1 310 440 7300. Fee.
Gull Wings Children's Museum Pretend to captain a ship in the shark-filled waters of California; play with a starfish in the ocean touch tank; explore the moon room of the Space exhibit; try cooking some of the local cuisine at Bud's Bistro. 418 W. Fourth St., Oxnard, CA; +1 805 483 3005. Fee.
Hollywood Walk of Fame Walk the path of stars; see the names and imprints of such greats as Greta Garbo, Charlie Chaplin, and Marilyn Monroe at this legendary Hollywood location. 7018 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 469 8311.
The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens See a Gutenberg Bible, a manuscript of the Canterbury Tales, the landscape paintings of John Constable, and George Washington's handwritten genealogy all in one place; enjoy a moment of relaxation at the Rose Garden Tea Room overlooking the Chinese garden. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, CA; +1 626 405 2100. Fee.
Kern County Museum & Children's Discovery Center Take a simulated trip under the sea in a diving bell to learn how oil is formed; follow a costumed interpreter as he leads you along a simulation of Lewis and Clark's journey. 3801 Chester Ave., Bakersfield, CA; +1 661 852 5000. Fee.
Laguna Beach Explore this scenic and sleepy hillside town; visit the Pacific Marine Mammal Center to see seals and other creatures; catch a play at the Laguna Playhouse, the oldest continually running playhouse on the West Coast; spend a day dodging crabs and surfers while you relax on the sand at Woods Cove. Visitor Information Center: 252 Broadway, Laguna Beach, CA; +1 949 497 9229. Fee.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art Marvel at the surreal urban landscapes of Magritte; spend hours wandering though this encyclopedic collection that spans a multi-building campus; see works that span from Meso-America to ancient Islam that populate this impressive gathering of culture. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 857 6000. Fee.
Maturango Museum Explore the cultural history of the northern Mojave desert; tour the Petroglyph Canyons; marvel at the incredible works of art. 100 E. Las Flores Ave., Ridgecrest, CA; + 1 760 375 6900 Fee.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Enjoy a broad sampling of American and European art from 1940 to the present; see the work of modern masters like Julian Schnabel, Willem de Kooning, and Jasper Johns. 250 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA; +1 213 626 6222. Fee.
North Beach Walk through this historic cultural center of San Francisco; see the City Lights bookstore that first published the poetry of Allen Ginsberg; climb the Filbert Steps to the top of Telegraph Hill for an unrivaled panorama of the city. North Beach, San Francisco, CA. City Lights Bookstore: +1 415 362 8193.
Olvera Street Experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of historic Los Angeles at this bustling pedestrian thoroughfare; grab a burrito from one of the street vendors; take home some of the unique folk art being hawked from every corner; enjoy a mariachi performance and roadside puppet show. 622 N. Main St., Los Angeles, CA.
Oroville Chinese Temple Watch a unique Chinese Shadow Puppet show at the Chinese Opera Theatre; see Taoist and Buddhist decorative hangings that line the walls of Tapestry Hall; take a moment for some Eastern reverence in the Chan Room, dedicated to Confucian ideals. 1500 Broderick St., Oroville, CA; +1 530 538 2496. Fee.
Palm Springs Art Museum See a vast collection of artwork from Western artists like William Darling; learn how to paint, dance, or sculpt at the family classes at Zone 101. 101 Museum Dr., Palm Springs, CA; +1 760 325 7186. Fee.
Petersen Automotive Museum Admire antique cars of every era in their lifelike environments; view the Packards and Cadillacs once driven by Hollywood's elite; learn how internal combustion works by examining the inner workings of an engine at the Family Discovery Center. 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 930 2277. Fee.
Randall Museum Discover the complex world of honeybees by checking out the production hives on the roof; younger children can explore the Tree House Toddler Exploration Zone; create together at a family ceramics class. 199 Museum Way, San Francisco, CA; +1 415 554 9600. Fee.
Rodeo Drive Live like the rich and famous, or at least pretend to as you window shop at Tiffany's, Armani, and Harry Winston along this world famous strip; stop to eat at one of the outdoor cafés and keep a camera ready for a snap of the hordes of celebrities that live and shop in the area. Rodeo Dr., Los Angeles, CA; +1 800 345 2210. Stores Various Hrs.
San Diego Museum of Art Peruse masters like Goya and Rubens; tour the outdoor sculpture garden for an eclectic mix of an old and new. 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA; +1 619 232 7931. Fee.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Visit this pantheon to Modern art with works by Pablo Picasso, Georgia O' Keeffe, and Jackson Pollock; take a tour geared to teach children about the art or sign up for one of the monthly family studio classes. 151 3rd St., San Francisco, CA; +1 415 357 4000. Fee.
Santa Barbara Museum of Art Walk through rooms filled with Greek and Roman antiquities; admire the work of masters such as Monet, Matisse, and Picasso; visit the interactive children's space. 1130 State St., Santa Barbara, CA; +1 805 963 4364. Fee.
Solvang Admire the cross-timbered houses and windmills that dot the landscape of this town, settled by Danish educators in the early 20th century; grab an authentic Danish pastry from one of the many bakeries; explore the life of famed storyteller Hans Christian Andersen at his museum. Solvang, CA; +1 805 688 0701. Fee.
University of California Los Angeles Have a relaxing picnic on the campus green; visit the Fowler Museum for exhibits highlighting world peoples and cultures; glimpse works from Monet and Van Gogh at the Hammer Museum. Parking & Information 555 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA; +1 310 825 4321 Fee.
Venice Beach Visit this five-block section of Venice to gawk at the eclectic mass of humanity; watch the antics of the street performers on the Boardwalk; head over to Muscle Beach to see toned bodybuilders strutting their stuff at the outdoor gym. 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Los Angeles, CA.
Will Rogers State Historic Park Uncover the life of this Hollywood legend when you take a guided tour of his 31-room ranch house; explore the forested grounds by hiking the Backbone trail up to Point Mugu, nestled in the Santa Monica mountains. 1501 Will Rogers Park Road, Pacific Palisades, CA; +1 310 454 8212. Fee.
Zeum Produce and star in your own music video at this hands-on museum geared for children eight and older; create a story and bring it to life in the animators studio; discover what a Martian might look like in the Digital Workshop. 221 Fourth St., San Francisco, CA; +1 415 820 3320. Fee.
Entertainment
Channel Islands Harbor See a classic Californian harbor filled with thousands of vessels; rent an electric boat to tour the port from the water; visit the Ventura County Maritime Museum to learn about the history of the Channel Islands; surf, sail, or build sandcastles on the miles of beaches surrounding the waterfront. 2471 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard, CA; +1 805 985 4852.
Fairytale Town Introduce yourself to Peter Rabbit; watch dynamic theater performances; enlist with Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men; climb Jack's beanstalk. 3901 Land Park Dr., Sacramento, CA; +1 916 264 5233. Fee.
Grauman's Chinese Theatre Visit this Hollywood landmark to see the handprints of the stars that have left their mark in the concrete outside the building; buy a ticket to catch a movie and enjoy the spectacular architecture. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 461 3331. Fee for films.
Metreon Stretch your mind at this confluence of fun and technology; play in an interactive area based on the kid favorite Where the Wild Things Are; get down to some serious gaming at the arcade; take in a 3-D IMAX film or a see a more conventional show at one of the 15 screens in the multiplex. 101 4th St., San Francisco, CA; +1 415 369 6000. Fee.
The Paley Center for Media Uncover over a century of entertainment in this archive of popular media; find your favorite episodes from over 100,000 programs on file; watch in the comfortable viewing rooms; see commercials that highlight consumer trends from the last six decades. 465 N. Beverly Dr., Los Angeles, CA; +1 310 786 1000. Fee.
Paramount's Pictures Watch the filming of a show in the same theater where I Love Lucy was taped; take a tour of the grounds to get a taste of film magic from yesteryear in the last remaining Hollywood film studio. 5555 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 956 1777. Fee.
Queen Mary Explore the inner workings of this art deco steam cruiser; spend the night in a first-class stateroom; take the ghost and legends tour to learn more about the World War II veterans who died aboard the vessel during its use as a troop ship. 1126 Queen's Hwy., Long Beach, CA; +1 562 435 3511. Fee.
Roeding Park Walk through a real tropical rain forest at the Chaffee Zoo; play in the Mother Goose fairy-tale themed Storyland; steer a train, race a car, or pilot a paddleboat in Playland. 890 W. Belmont, Fresno, CA; +1 559 486 2124.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Take a ride on the Giant Dipper, a classic wooden rollercoaster; play a video game at the Casino Arcade; grab a corndog and a blanket for a picnic alongside the Pacific. 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, CA; +1 831 423 5590.
Santa Monica Pier Tickle a sea urchin and get up close to a horn shark at the aquarium under the pier; get an aerial view of the bay from Pacific Park's Ferris wheel; take a spin on the vintage 1922 Looff Carousel. 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA; +1 310 458 8900. Fee.
Skunk Train See the massive Redwoods from this early 20th-century passenger train; take photos from one of the open observation cars. Laurel Street, Fort Bragg, CA; 800 866 1690.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad Ride deep into the heart of the old-growth forest on this retired logging path; spot a red-tailed hawk; listen to the Sugar Pine Singers on one of the dinner trips. 56001 Hwy. 41, Fish Camp, CA; +1 559 683 7273. Fee.
History
Alcatraz Island Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the way to this famous prison island; explore the complex; listen to the audio tour about life on the island; learn about the Native American takeover of 1969; take a ranger-guided journey into the ecosystems of the maritime outcropping. Pier 33, near intersection of Bay Street, San Francisco, CA; +1 415 705 5555. Fee.
Bodie State Historic Park Learn how the gold miners lived at this real ghost town preserved in a state of "arrested decay;" take a ghost tour of the supposedly haunted lands and explore the mine shafts brave men once crawled through. Bodie Rd., Bridgeport, CA; +1 760 647 6445.
La Brea Tar Pits Marvel at the remains of woolly mammoths and hundreds of other prehistoric creatures that have been recovered from the pits; unearth fossils by volunteering to work at one of the ongoing excavations; visit the Page Museum to learn more about the history of the tar pits. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 934 7243. Fee.
Cable Car Museum Learn the history of the iconic San Francisco cable car; see the massive powerhouse wheels that drive the entire system; head downstairs to the sheave room to understand the inner workings of the system; climb aboard a real preserved cable car. 1201 Mason St., San Francisco, CA; +1 415 474 1887.
Calico Ghost Town Walk the streets of this 1880s mining town; visit the museum to see an adobe building; take a ghost tour through the hard rock silver mine. Ghost Town Rd., Yermo, CA; +1 760 254 2122. Fee.
The California Museum for History, Women and the Arts Explore the rich heritage of the Indian tribes that occupied California before the arrival of Europeans; walk through reconstructed dwellings; see native items like dress regalia and musical instruments. 2618 K St., Sacramento, CA; +1 916 324 0971. Fee.
California State History Museum Learn about the contribution of Latinos to the state's development; see the original California Constitution; discover the history of Amelia Earhart and other famous females at the California's Remarkable Women exhibit. 1020 O St., Sacramento, CA; +1 916 653 7524. Fee.
California State Railroad Museum Climb into a 19th-century mail car; lay in a sleeper to feel the swaying of the train; examine over 1,000 toy trains and 21 real locomotives; take a ride on the steam-powered excursion train. 125 I St., Sacramento, CA; +1 916 445 6645. Fee.
Carmel Mission Visit the historic headquarters of the Spanish Mission system, built in 1771; wander through the Heritage Garden's vineyard and grove of olive trees; take a guided tour of the structure and grounds to learn more about Spanish influence in the region. 3080 Rio Rd., Carmel, CA; +1 831 624 1271. Fee.
Castle Air Museum Climb aboard the impressive Convair RB-36H and the Boeing B-52; wander around the outdoor lot packed with 46 planes, including a nuclear bomber. 5050 Santa Fe Ave., Atwater, CA; +1 209 723 2178.
Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Uncover the heritage of the only town in California founded and financed by African Americans; visit the Mary Dickinson Memorial library to learn about the colonel's achievements, then tour his home to see how he and other African Americans lived in turn-of-the-last-century California. 4129 Palmer Ave., Earlimart, CA; +1 661 849 3433. Fee.
Columbia State Historic Park Travel back in time to 1850 at this living historical city; rent a horse to tour the area; relax from the back of a 100-year-old stagecoach; watch a blacksmith at work; grab a sarsaparilla at one of the Wild West saloons. 11255 Jackson St., Columbia, CA; +1 209 588 9128. Fee for special events.
Discovery Museum of Sacramento, Gold Rush History Center Learn how the gold rush changed Sacramento or walk over a glass floor that looks down into the heart of Sacramento's past. 101 I St., Sacramento, CA; +1 916 264 7057. Fee.
Empire Mine State Park Visit one of California's richest gold mines; see the "secret room" where mine managers kept a hidden model of the site's 367 miles of shaft; hike or ride horseback through the beautiful Backcountry trails. 10791 East Empire St., Grass Valley, CA; +1 530 273 8522. Fee.
Fort Ross State Historic Park Discover the southernmost settlement of Russian colonization on the North American continent; see the Orthodox chapel; meander through the orchard that dates back to the 19th-century community. 19005 Coast Highway One, Jenner, CA; +1 707 847 3286. Fee.
Hangtown's Gold Bug Park and Mine Follow costumed tour guides as they lead you deep into the Gold Bug Mine; hike the Vulture Claim Trail to see the "coyote holes" left by 19th-century miners; pan for gold or gems. 2635 Goldbug Lane, Placerville, CA; +1 530 642 5207.
Laws Railway Museum Visit the real Wild West at this museum, housed in an original 1883 train depot; learn how frontier medicine was practiced; see original locomotives that helped to expand the West. U.S. Hwy 6, Bishop, CA; +1 760 873 5950. Fee.
Maritime Museum Board the Star of India, an 1863 sailboat that earns the title of oldest active ship in the world; visit the 1898 steamer, Berkeley, to learn about the rich naval history of the region; watch a classic sea movie projected onto sails of the ships during the Movies Before the Mast film festival. 1492 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA; +1 619 234 9153. Fee.
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park Tour houses, schools, stores, and other historic buildings from the 1849 gold rush; see a replica of the sawmill where gold was first found in the region; watch costumed re-enactors bring the gold rush mayhem back to life. 310 Back St., Coloma, CA; +1 530 622 3470. Fee.
Mission San Juan Capistrano Visit this Spanish outpost dating back to 1776; view Serra Chapel, the oldest standing church in California; follow the mission's publication for kids, "Passport Explorer," on adventures through the mission's grounds. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, CA; +1 949 234 1300. Fee.
Museum of Tolerance Tour this powerful museum, which looks at current issues through the prism of historical intolerance; enter the Millennium Machine to learn more about problems of intolerance affecting the world today; visit the Hall of Testimony to learn about the Holocaust from the words of survivors. 9786 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA; +1 310 553 8403. Fee.
National Steinbeck Center Celebrate one of America's greatest writers through detailed stage sets and the filmed version of The Grapes of Wrath starring Henry Fonda; explore manuscripts, pictures, and notes from Steinbeck's life. 1 Main St., Salinas, CA; +1 831 796 3833.
Palm Springs Air Museum Explore the world of World War II combat aviation; see a real B-17 Flying Fortress; climb in the nose of a Grumman Goose; watch a P-51 Mustang take to the skies at one of the Saturday flight exhibitions. 745 N. Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA; +1 760 778 6262. Fee.
La Purisima Mission State Historic Park View this meticulously restored Spanish Mission that dates back to 1787; visit the museum to learn about the history of Spanish settlers in the area; take a guided tour of the building and grounds. 2295 Purisima Rd., Lompoc, CA; +1 805 733 3713. Fee.
San Bernardino County Museum Meet a Shasta ground sloth; see a real covered wagon and a stage coach; encounter a grizzly bear up close and personal; marvel at Native American baskets and pottery. 2024 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands, CA; +1 909 307 2669. Fee.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Head below the decks of the historic Eureka ferry; help raise the sails on Balclutha; take a boatbuilding class; listen to a sea music concert; learn about the local waterfowl at the "Birds of the Bay" program. Jefferson St. and Hyde St., San Francisco, CA; +1 451 447 5000. Fee.
San Juan Bautista State Historic Park Tour a blacksmith shop, jailhouse, and pioneer cabin that date back to the early 19th-century settlement of the region; visit the Castro-Breen Adobe to see exhibits explaining the history of the Monterey Bay area. Hwy 156, San Juan Bautista, CA; +1 831 623 4526.
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum Virtually steer a vessel into Santa Barbara Harbor; learn ocean shanties at Sea Song Sing-a-long; land a "big one" at the interactive Sport Fishing exhibit; scope out some vintage surfboards at the surfing display. 113 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, CA; +1 805 962 8404. Fee.
Sutter's Fort State Historic Park Wander through the original settlement in the Sacramento valley; watch California's history to life as actors work as blacksmiths, bakers, and soldiers. 2701 L St., Sacramento, CA; +1 916 445 4422. Fee.
Sutter Gold Mine Try your luck at finding some gold from the real California Motherlode; ride the Boss Buggy deep underground as you learn about the mining history in the area; strap on a hard hat and find out the difference between fool's gold and the real stuff the hard way. 13660 Highway 49, Sutter Creek, CA; +1 866 762 2837. Fee.
Weaverville Joss House Travel to the Orient without leaving California at the Temple of the Forest Beneath the Clouds, the oldest continuously used Chinese temple in the state; take the guided tour to discover the antique weapons and other artifacts that illustrate the history and experience of Chinese immigrants in the region. SW corner of Hwy. 299 Oregon, Weaverville, CA; +1 530 623 5284. Fee.
U.S.S. Midway Museum Experience life at sea; climb aboard a historic aircraft carrier and explore 60 exhibits and aircrafts; self-guided audio tour narrated by Midway veterans. 910 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA; +1 619 544 9600. Fee.
Nature
Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest Marvel at the 4,700-year-old Methuselah Tree, one of oldest living organisms on earth; hike through these rare gnarled old pines on the slopes of the White Mountains. Highway 168, Independence, CA; +1 760 873 2500.
Angel Island Take a ferry from San Francisco to the largest island in the Bay; hike to Mount Livermore for a spectacular view of Ayala Cove; camp along the ridgeline and wake up early to watch the sunrise from an ocean kayak. San Francisco Bay, CA; +1 415 435 5390. Fee.
Big Bear Lake Take a horse or pony ride around the lake; water ski until sunset; have a relaxing picnic as you watch the boats go by. 630 Bartlett Road. Big Bear Lake, CA. 800 4 BIG BEAR. Fee.
Big Sur Explore this area crisscrossed with state and national parks; climb the lighthouse at Point Sur for a panoramic view of the region; watch the waves crash at Pfeiffer Beach from the inside of a giant rock; hike the trails through Pfeiffer Big Sur park to the hidden redwood valley waterfall. Big Sur, CA; +1 831 667 2315. Fee.
Cabrillo National Monument Climb the Old Point Loma Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the spot where explorers first arrived in San Diego; comb the beach for the colorful sea stars hidden in the tide pools; hike up to Whale Watching Point Overlook to scan for gray whales as they make their annual migration. 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr., San Diego, CA; +1 619 557 5450. Fee.
Calaveras Big Tree State Park Hike through the North Grove of giant sequoias and marvel at organisms thousands of years old; admire the mountain dogwood or black bear in their native environments. Hwy. 4, Arnold, CA; +1 209 795 2334.
Channel Islands National Park Visit this remarkable collection of islands for a variety of different attractions. Watch tens of thousands of seals and sea lions as they play on the shores of San Miguel; photograph the famous Arch Rock on East Anacapa; explore Painted Cave, one of the deepest known sea cavern in the world; camp on the sizable Santa Cruz and hike its expanses to catch sight of a bald eagle. 1901 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura, CA; +1 805 658 5730. Camping Fee.
Coachella Valley Preserve Spot a fringe-toes lizard; hike over acres of mesas take a covered wagon tour of the badlands; stop in at the Thousand Palms Oasis. Thousand Palms Canyon Rd., Palm Springs, CA; +1 760 343 1234. Fee.
Death Valley National Park See the hottest, driest, and lowest points in America; hike to the summit of Telescope Peak, which reaches to over 11,000 feet; look for a desert falcon or an elusive mountain lion; admire the colorful volcanic deposits at the Artists Palette rock formation. Highway 136 and 190, Death Valley, CA; Fee.
Fresno County Blossom Trail Drive through blossoming orchards, citrus groves, and vineyards as you travel along this winding 62-mile trail; stop along the way at the Mennonite Quilt Center to see the unique art form of the local community. Visitor Center/Trailhead: 848 M St., Fresno, CA; +1 559 262 4271.
Golden Gate Bridge Walk across one of the most famous bridges in the United States and enjoy breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay; examine a cross section of one of the immense cables to learn how the bridge was made; grab a snack at the Bridge Café. U.S. Hwy 101, San Francisco, CA; + 1 415 921 5858.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area Try kite-boarding at Crissy Field; watch the sunset over the Pacific; hike miles of trail to enjoy a bunch of seaside daisies; glimpse a red-tailed hawk as it swoops through the air; visit the Strybing Arboretum and Botanical gardens. San Francisco, CA; +1 415 561 4700.
Griffith Park Visit the Griffith Observatory for a panoramic view of the city's sprawl; climb aboard the antique carousel; saddle up a real pony for a ride around the park's many trails; check out the Autry National Center for a unique perspective on western history and heritage. 4730 Crystal Springs Dr., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 913 4688. Fee.
Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Preserve Explore one of the largest and most diverse dunes region in the state; keep your eyes peeled for black bears and mountain lions on a hike to the top of the 1,500-feet high dune known as Mussel Rock; visit the Dunes Visitors Center to see exhibits on the many movies that have been filmed at the dunes. 1055 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe, CA; +1 805 343 2455.
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge Watch a blue heron or a snowy egret nest among the Topock Marsh; take a boat tour along the Colorado River and catch a catfish for dinner; camp below the scenic Castle Rock. Off I-40, Needles, CA; +1 760 326 3853.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park Explore the Rockefeller Forest, the largest remaining grove of old-growth Redwoods in the world; see some of the largest organisms in the world without leaving your car on the Avenue of the Giants auto tour; hike the Bull Creek trail; fish for salmon in the Eel River. 17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA; +1 707 946 2409.
Huntington Beach Head out past the breakers on the 1,800-foot pier to watch serious surfers; photograph blue herons as they nest in the salt marshes of Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Visitors Center: 301 Main St., Huntington Beach, CA; 800 729 6232. Fee.
Joshua Tree National Park Explore where the Mojave and California deserts meet; climb one of the rock faces in the Hidden Valley; spy Bighorn sheep as they roam through the Lost Palms Oasis. 74485 National Park Dr., Twentynine Palms, CA; +1 760 367 5500. Fee.
Kern National Wildlife Refuge Enjoy the wild beauty of this wetland refuge; photograph the migratory waterfowl in Tulare Lake; glimpse the endangered San Joaquin Kit Fox; drive the scenic 6.5-mile loop around the refuge. 10811 Corcoran Rd., Delano, CA; +1 661 725 2767.
Lake Casitas Recreation Area Fish for a trophy-size bass at this famed fishing destination at the foot of the Santa Ynez mountains; make camp and eat your catch along the Laguna ridge; cool off on one of the slides at the Casitas Water Adventure. 11311 Santa Ana Rd., Ventura, CA; +1 805 649 2233. Fee.
Lake Shasta Caverns Reach the caverns with a scenic boat ride across Shasta Lake; spot a bald eagle soaring high above; hike into the bowels of the Earth and marvel at the calcite crystal formations lining the walls of the Discovery Room. 20359 Shasta Caverns Rd., Lakehead, CA; +1 800 795 CAVE. Fee.
Malibu Lagoon State Beach Enjoy this small slice of wilderness in the middle of the bustling city; watch blue herons, avocets, and gulls from along the marshy boardwalk; fish for snapper on Malibu pier; grill your catch as you watch the surfers at Surfrider Beach. 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, CA; +1 818 880 0350.
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Admire the stunning 129-foot Burney Falls; hike down to the mist-filled basin to fish for trout in Burney Creek; photograph the many resident bald eagles in the skies above Lake Britton. 24898 Hwy. 89, Burney, CA; +1 530 335 2777. Fee.
Modoc National Wildlife Refuge Hike the shores of the Pit River; admire blue herons, snowy egrets, sandhill cranes, and other waterfowl at this central nesting point. Hwy. 395, Alturas, CA; +1 530 233 3572.
Mojave National Preserve Admire the volcanically formed Hole in the Wall; hike to top of a golden white peak at the Kelso Sand Dunes; explore the inside of a mountain at the Mitchell Caverns Natural Preserve. 2701 Barstow Rd., Barstow, CA; +1 760 252 6100.
Mono Lake Discover this oasis in the middle of the arid Great Basin; spy a Western Sandpiper as it rests on its long migration; scope out the beautiful tufa Calcium Carbonate towers from your canoe in the center of the lake. Hwy. 395, Lee Vining, CA; +1 760 647 3044. Fee.
Mooney Grove Park Relax in the sun alongside a duck pond; rent a rowboat for a trip around the lagoon; visit the Tulare Historic Museum to see artifacts from the local Yokuts people; play a round of Frisbee golf. 27000 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia, CA; +1 559 733 6291. Fee.
Morro Bay Visit the town's nature preserve to view eagles, falcons, and other endangered wildlife; marvel at picturesque Morro Rock; stop by the Museum of Natural History to learn more about the local environment. 845 Embarcadero Rd., Morro Bay, CA; +1 805 772 4467.
Muir Woods National Monument Take the Dipsea Trail as it winds through the stunning Cathedral Grove; watch the sunset over the Pacific from rocky Muir Beach; fish for steelhead salmon in Redwood creek; eat it for dinner while camping nearby. Panoramic Hwy., Mill Valley, CA; +1 415 388 2595. Fee.
Newport Beach Rent one of the many boats anchored in the harbor to get a view of the bay; hit the beach at the Balboa Peninsula to watch body surfers take on the famous Wedge break; visit the Back Bay ecological reserve to see a Southern California estuary. Chamber of Commerce: 1470 Jamboree Rd., Newport Beach, CA; +1 949 729 4400.
Pinnacles National Natural Landmark Visit this unusual geological wonder, consisting of over 500 Tufa spires; hike around the Searles Dry Lake basin; camp overnight to admire the untouched night sky. Five miles south of highway 178, Ridgecrest, CA; +1 760 384 5400. Fee.
Point Reyes National Seashore Watch the majestic Tule Elk in their natural habitat; catch sight of the giant gray whales as they migrate along the coast; hike or bike over 140 miles of trail then find a quiet beach and catch some rays. 1 Bear Valley Rd., Point Reyes, CA; +1 415 464 5100. Camping Fees.
Rainbow Basin National Natural Landmark See Mars on Earth—or at least the area used by Hollywood to reproduce the Red Planet for decades; camp at Owl Canyon; explore the area to find fossilized remains of mastodons and dog-bears. Fossil Bed Rd., Barstow, CA; +1 760 252 6000.
Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Garden Walk among scenic ponds and meadows; smell wild lilacs; see beautiful, big-berry manzanitas. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont, CA; +1 909 625 8767. Fee.
Red Rock Canyon State Park Find the petroglyphs left behind by the Kawaiisu Indians; camp along the southernmost valley of the Sierra Nevada mountain range; glimpse roadrunners, hawks, and desert lizards as you hike trails through the El Paso Range. Abbott Dr., near Cantil, CA. +1 661 942 0662. Fee.
Salt Point State Park Explore one of the sandstone Tafoni caves that dot the shore of Gerstle Cove; watch seals bask in the sun at Stump Beach; swim in the Underwater Park to marvel at the marine life. 25050 Coast Hwy. 1, Jenner, CA; +1 707 847 3221. Fee.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Walk underneath California lilacs to the Mission Dam; learn how Chumash Indians used native wildlife to create tools and clothing. 1212 Mission Canyon Rd., Santa Barbara, CA; +1 805 682 4726. Fee.
Sequoia National Forest Marvel at the largest living organisms on Earth as you walk through the Giant Forest; see the granite monoliths tower over the surroundings; camp in the rugged terrain in the John Muir Wilderness. 1839 South Newcomb St., Porterville, CA; +1 559 784 1500. Fee.
Silver Strand State Beach Relax on the wide sandy stretch of Coronado beach; go swimming in the gentle surf; keep an eye out for the Navy SEALS that train along the waterfront. 5000 Hwy 75, San Diego, CA; +1 619 435 5184.
Turtle Bay Exploration Park Watch the majestic monarch's emerge from their cocoons at the butterfly house; try a hand at logging at Paul Bunyan's Forest Camp; marvel at the 217-foot Sundial Bridge. 800 Auditorium Dr., Redding, CA; +1 530 243 8850. Fee.
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Rent a boat for a day of relaxation on Whiskeytown Lake; hike to the peak of Shasta Bally to spot peregrine falcons—watch out for the black bears that still roam the hills; camp in the Camden House historic district, which dates back to the 1849 gold rush. 14412 Kennedy Memorial Dr., Whiskeytown, CA; +1 530 242 3400.
Woodward Park Hike along the San Joaquin River on the scenic Lewis S. Eaton Trail; tour the Shinzen Japanese Garden; tumble in one of three kids' playgrounds or relax beside the koi pond. 7775 Friant Rd., Fresno, CA; +1 559 621 2900. Fee.
Yerba Buena Gardens Walk through the Butterfly Garden; wonder at the evergreen trees; admire the sculpture yard; make a wish in the fountain; glide on the ice skating rink. Fifth & Mission, San Francisco, CA; +1 415 820 3550.
Yosemite National Park Be mesmerized by the cascading water of Yosemite Falls; hike to Curry Village to marvel at the famous Glacier Point; wander through the Merced Grove and try to glimpse a majestic black bear beneath an ancient Sequoia tree; see the spirit of the area as captured by Ansel Adams at his museum and gallery. Northside Dr. (various entrances), Yosemite, CA; +1 209 372 0200. Fee.
Science
California Science Center Ride a bike across a 1" cable 43 feet in the air; see actual flown Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo space capsules; learn about homeostasis from Tess, the 50-foot body simulator. 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA; +1 323 724 3623. Parking fee.
Exploratorium Learn how cacao beans turn into chocolate candy; observe live mouse stem cells at the Microscope Imaging Station; crawl through the Tactile Dome; watch robots battle in a broadcast of the Robot Sumo Competition. 3601 Lyon St., San Francisco, CA; +1 415 561 0360. Fee.
Humboldt State University Natural History Museum Follow the evolution of local species, from ancient brachiopods to Saber Tooth cats; watch honeybees making combs, feeding their young, and caring for their Queen at the Bee Hive. 1315 G St., Arcata, CA; +1 707 826 4479.
Lawrence Hall of Science Measure height in nanometers; experience an earthquake at the quake fault model; follow water's journey from the Sierra Nevada mountains to the Bay. Centennial Dr., Berkeley, CA; +1 510 642 5132. Fee.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Uncover the mysteries of Megamouth, the world's rarest shark; meet prehistoric giants like Tyrannosaurus rex and allosaur at the dinosaur exhibit; learn to find fossils and take bone rubbings at the Discovery Center. 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA; +1 213 763 3466. Fee.
Ocean Institute Use glowing plankton to examine breaking bubbles and learn the science of the seas; board the 70-foot R/V Sea Explorer for an educational expedition on the Pacific; dissect the fish caught at sea to study marine biology. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point, CA; +1 949 496 2274. Fee.
Reuben H. Fleet Science Center Grow up rapidly at the Aging for All Ages exhibit where the latest in computer morphing technology enables visitors to see what they'll look like in the future; compare your appearance at any age with and without the effects of smoking, obesity, and exposure to sunlight. 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA; +1 619 238 1233. Fee.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Explore the known universe as it is projected overhead at the Planetarium; stroke a live shark in the touch pool at the Sea Center; discover the heritage of the local Chumash Indians at displays examining their lives and culture. 2559 Puesta del Sol Rd., Santa Barbara, CA; +1 805 682 4711. Fee.
Shasta Dam Admire the second largest concrete dam in the United States; ride an elevator to the interior of the station to learn how hydroelectric energy is created; watch the sunset behind Mount Shasta as it towers over the structure. 16349 Shasta Dam Blvd., Shasta Lake, CA; +1 530 275 4463.