A versatile weekend itinerary for art, food & fun in San Francisco
By J.C. Thomas San Francisco is such an exceptional destination that crafting a weekend itinerary can pose a real challenge. There are so many iconic things to see, do and eat in the city, and a one-night stay can only be stretched so far. Embrace the challenge, though, and the reward will be two days […]
My Legacy Experience on the Napa Valley Wine Train
By Cristina Bolis Napa Valley has always held a special allure for me, a land where rolling vineyards meet sun-soaked hills, and every sip of wine tells a story. Recently, I had the pleasure of experiencing the Napa Valley Wine Train’s Legacy Experience, a journey that not only delighted my palate but also nourished my […]
Top Destinations for Family Fun in the East Bay
With vibrant and artsy Oakland as its urban hub, the East Bay is a fantastic destination for a family getaway. Adding to its appeal are dozens of other charming cities set against substantial stretches of wilderness. Whether it’s part of an epic exploration of Northern California or an impromptu outing for locals, there’s no shortage […]
Places to Play: Olompali State Historic Park
Before it was one of the Bay Area’s prettiest state parks, the oak-strewn mountainside of Olompali saw thousands of years of Coast Miwok culture, the indulgences of a wealthy ranching family, and the highs and lows of a counterculture commune. Olompali State Historic Park is in Marin County, just off US-101, 3 miles north of […]
Museum Monday: Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park
On the edge of the San Francisco Bay in Richmond, California, is Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park. The park preserves and explores the history of the “Rosies,” some 6 million women who entered the nation’s industrial workforce during World War II. Thousands of these women worked at Richmond’s Kaiser Shipyards, where […]
Museum Monday: The Exploratorium, San Francisco
The Exploratorium, an award-winning, science-meets-art museum in San Francisco, checks off a lot of boxes on visitors’ wish lists. It’s one of the best places to go with kids in San Francisco, yet the museum is equally fun and engaging for all ages. Designed as a public learning laboratory for science, art and human perception, […]
12 Beautiful Botanical Gardens in California
Here’s an easy way to feel like you’ve cleansed your soul, just a little bit – take a stroll around your local botanical gardens. There are around 100 botanical gardens in California that are open to the public, according to Botanic Gardens Conservation International. They vary considerably in size and scope, but all have in […]
M.S. Dixie II is Lake Tahoe’s Best Four-Season Experience
The most popular activities around Lake Tahoe depend greatly on the season: snow sports in winter, hiking and mountain biking in summer, and scenic driving tours when the weather’s clear. One top attraction in South Lake Tahoe that’s available all year around is the M.S. Dixie II, a 500-passenger paddlewheeler that tours the lake throughout […]
End a Perfect Day in Sausalito with a Sunset Sail
The city of Sausalito, covering less than 2 square miles of land on the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge, should in theory be overshadowed by its bigger, showier neighbors. San Francisco, just 4 miles away, is packed with tourist attractions and coasts on its uniquely compelling vibe. Then there’s the Golden Gate National […]
How to Be the Savviest Tourist in San Francisco
Combine tourist-friendly deals to get the most out of your San Francisco sightseeing experience By J.C. Thomas When you’re visiting an extremely popular tourist destination like San Francisco, it’s common to want to reject the title of “tourist.” This is especially true for Californians heading to San Francisco for the umpteenth time. You prefer to […]
Where to Stay in Pacifica, CA: Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites
Book a night in a restful room just a stone’s throw from Pacifica’s Rockaway Beach We’re always eager to sing the praises of Pacifica, a delightful little beach town just a few miles south-west of San Francisco. With its sleepy small-town vibe, rugged natural landscapes, hiking trails and beaches galore, Pacifica is an ideal spot for […]
Places to Play: Calistoga, California
By J.C. Thomas It’s easy to fit all of California’s wine country into a single vision, certainly a charming one. Picture miles of gentle rolling hills covered with neat rows of grape vines, interrupted only by chic cities offering tasting rooms, luxury resorts, spas, and some of the finest dining anywhere in the world. Spend […]