Best of California

Los Angeles conjures up notions of Hollywood glamour, gorgeous beaches and multi-faceted neighborhoods. With over 100 museums and 2754 names on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the City of Angels offers plenty of sights to tempt curious travelers. Savor a dinner accompanied by wine in the company of your fellow travelers.

A nostalgic ride on the city's landmark Angel's Flight funicular for a taste of early 20th-century nostalgia marks the beginning of your insightful journey into the City of Angels. As you continue through Downtown LA, learn about the history and architecture of the city from 18th Century to today as you explore the Grand Central Market, Bradbury Building and US Bank Tower. In legendary Hollywood, get up close and personal taking photos of the famous hillside Hollywood sign and strolling along the Walk of Fame. Look for the hand- and footprints of cinema’s greatest celebrities at the historic TCL Chinese Theater, Hollywood’s most sought-after Theater for movie premieres. In the afternoon, explore Los Angeles with Insight Choice. Visit the innovative Petersen Automotive Museum, a captivating experience about the history and artistry of motorized transportation. Alternatively, learn the insights into the history of filmmaking at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. Tonight, Los Angeles is yours to explore on your own with an abundance of dining options.

Drive along one of the most scenic drives in America known as the Pacific Coast Highway. This stretch of road hugs the coast of California offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Take a stroll on the wooden Santa Monica Pier that juts 500 meters into the Pacific Ocean. See the iconic ferris wheel and amusement park situated on the pier and perhaps spot wildlife in the distance. Back on the coach, depart for Santa Barbara taking in the ocean views on your left and mountain views to your right. Explore Santa Barbara with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the 18th-century Old Mission, one of the original 21 California Missions founded by Spanish Franciscans. Alternatively, take a relaxing stroll through the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and learn about California’s diverse native plants.

This morning we visit "The Danish Capitol of America" in Solvang, California. In 1911, a new settlement was founded by a group of Danish-Americans who purchased 9,000 acres (3,600 ha) of the surrounding Rancho San Carlos de Jonata, to establish a Danish community far from Midwestern winters. The community took on its distinctive Danish-themed architecture beginning in 1947 and has since become a prominent tourist destination. Later drive from Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach. Enjoy stunning ocean views and lush farmlands as you head north into our final destination dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and orchards. Enjoy lunch on your own before you are treated to an olive oil farm tour and tasting experience. Tonight, enjoy dinner with wine at a local restaurant.

Journey to the majestic Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our first stop will be the stunning Mariposa Grove (seasonal), the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. In 1864 President Lincoln signed legislation protecting the Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley for "public use, resort, and recreation." It's most famous resident, The Grizzly Giant, is an 1,800-year-old sequoia tree, measuring 209 feet (64 m) high with a circumference of 96 feet (29 m). Once you've settled into your hotel, enjoy a three-course dinner with wine in The Mountain Room at Yosemite Valley Lodge. Take in views of the nearly 2500 foot (762 meters) high waterfall while exploring diverse and sustainable menu offerings that include local, organic, and seasonal preparations.

Join the Yosemite Conversancy and meet a naturalist guide/climber to get familiar with the ins and outs of rock climbing. Take a step back and spend time watching experts in action. Widely considered the Mecca of the rock-climbing world, you'll see the famed El Capitan which was first ascended by Warren Harding in 1958. You’ll talk granite and gear, explore the science behind the emotions you feel when inching up a wall, and you will MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® learning how climbers help preserve the vertical environment.

Travel towards the West Coast, cross the Bay Bridge and arrive in buzzing San Francisco. Head to the Fisherman’s Wharf, once home to the city’s colorful fishing fleet and today a popular district full of restaurants, cafes and shops. This afternoon, join your Travel Director for a stroll across the legendary Golden Gate Bridge, a symbol of California, then continue on a short drive to the quaint town of Sausalito. Enjoy some leisure time before taking the ferry back to San Francisco, passing the infamous Alcatraz Island.

This morning, venture across the road and to the Ferry Building and shop around at one of America’s most famous farmers markets. Browse the stalls offering organic produce, flowers and regional artisan specialties such as breads, cheeses, and jams. On your city sightseeing tour, journey past lively Union Square and vast Golden Gate Park. Get Insider Access and learn how real sourdough bread is made with a baker at Boudin Bakery, a San Francisco staple since 1849. In the afternoon, walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and experience the charming seaside town of Sausalito.  Tonight, toast to your travels at Palette Tea House, for an elevated Chinese dim sum dinner.

It is time to bid farewell to your fellow travelers and new friends as you depart at your own leisure with plenty of new memories.