What to do in Central California, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Central California

Types of activities

Where to stay

Central California travel guide

Yosemite Valley which includes mountains and a cascade

Central California showing landscape views, a coastal town and general coastal views

Ventura featuring outdoor eating, signage and dining out

Ventura featuring surfing and general coastal views as well as an individual male

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Top places to visit

1. Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley is the emerald green heart of Yosemite National Park. Marvel at the soaring granite walls, including some of the park’s most iconic landmarks, flanking this 8-mile (13-kilometer) canyon.

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2. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an area of extraordinary natural beauty in the center of California. It has abundant flora and fauna in addition to majestic mountains, giant trees, vast valleys and peaceful lakes. Every year, millions of travelers visit the park, which stretches across 747,956 acres (302,687 hectares). Glaciers formed the fascinating landscape about 1 million years ago.

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Yosemite Falls which includes mountains and a cascade

3. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is the continental United States’ largest park. It’s also the hottest, driest and lowest. Despite harsh conditions, the park’s more than 3 million acres (1.3 million hectares) aren’t simply desert plains. Find mountains, canyons, sand dunes, extinct volcanic craters and even palm trees and wildflowers.

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Death Valley showing desert views and tranquil scenes as well as a small group of people

4. Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort

The high peaks in the Sierra Nevada Mountains capture plenty of natural snowfall, giving Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort a very long season, usually starting in November and continuing through June or even July. Enjoy sunshine on average 300 days a year as you ski over 3,500 acres (1,400 hectares) of snowy terrain or bike on 80 miles (130 kilometers) of trails. Find plenty of family fun off the mountain too.

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Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort featuring snowboarding and snow

5. Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases more than 35,000 animals and plants across 550 species. You’ll discover all kinds of local wildlife here, including fish of all sizes, invertebrates, mammals and plants.

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Monterey Bay Aquarium which includes interior views and marine life

6. Mammoth Mountain

Say goodbye to summer weather, shorts, and swimsuits, and say hello to snow fall, snowboards, and ski masks at Mammoth ski resort. Fresh powder, terrain parks, and open trails invite you to book a Mammoth Lakes ski vacation, and experience this magical winter wonderland.

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When the temperatures start to drop, head to Mammoth Lakes in California to make the most of its exciting ski season.

7. Winchester Mystery House

The Winchester Mystery House is an enormous 19th-century mansion with fascinating architectural details, a rich history and tales of hauntings. Belonging to the widow of a gun tycoon, its rooms are decorated with intriguing trinkets that tell her story. Inspect the many rooms for a glimpse into the opulent and turbulent life of the Winchester rifle heiress.

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What to do in Central California

Popular places to visit

Yosemite Valley

5/5(63 reviews)

From Yosemite Falls to Half Dome and El Capitan, you can see some of the most stunning scenery in the world from Yosemite National Park’s central valley.

Yosemite National Park

The hiking trails, waterfalls and mountains full of diverse wildlife make this national park one of the country’s most picturesque.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort

4.5/5(4 reviews)

When this mountain’s very long ski season ends, great mountain biking begins. Enjoy the fresh air, beautiful scenery and fun events year-round.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

4.5/5(29 reviews)

Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

4/5(41 reviews)

Have a fun-filled day with the family at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk during your visit to Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.

Mammoth Mountain

4.5/5(7 reviews)

When the temperatures start to drop, head to Mammoth Lakes in California to make the most of its exciting ski season.

Winchester Mystery House

4.5/5(6 reviews)

Wonder about the alleged hauntings and other mysteries as you chart the life of a gun magnate’s widow in this unfinished manor.

Santana Row Shopping Center

4/5(1 review)

During your trip to San Jose, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Santana Row Shopping Center. Attend a sporting event or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Hearst Castle

5/5(21 reviews)

You can learn about the history of San Simeon with a stop at Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Explore areas of Central California

Downtown San Jose

3.5/5(5 area reviews)

Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like SAP Center at San Jose and San Pedro Square, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.

Yosemite West

You'll enjoy the waterfalls and riverfront in Yosemite West. You might want to make time for a stop at Yosemite National Park or Sierra National Forest.

Santa Cruz which includes general coastal views and views as well as an individual male

Westside Santa Cruz

4/5(31 area reviews)

Travellers to Westside Santa Cruz praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Monterey Bay and Pacific Avenue.

Carmel which includes street scenes, signage and a city

Downtown Monterey

4/5(31 area reviews)

The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Monterey State Beach or Golden State Theatre might round out your trip.

Mammoth Village

While Mammoth Village isn't home to many top sights, Village Gondola Station and Sierra Star Golf Course are some notable places to visit nearby.

South San Jose

4/5(8 area reviews)

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in South San Jose. If sightseeing is on the list, Almaden Plaza is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Blossom Hill Station (VTA) or Snell Station to see more of the area.