Northern California
Travel Guide
Visit Northern California
Where to stay in Northern California
Fisherman's Wharf
Discover Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park in this bustling tourist hotspot. Savor seafood at family-owned restaurants and explore the sea lion colony, while enjoying convenient cable car access.
Union Square
Major tourist destination in downtown San Francisco, Union Square boasts shopping, hotels, and theaters. Explore department stores, boutiques, and galleries, or catch a performance at various theaters. Enjoy the Dewey Monument and stunning views from nearby hotels. Easily accessible via cable car lines, buses, and subway systems.
Downtown San Francisco
Serving as San Francisco's central business district, this area boasts Northern California's two tallest buildings, the Salesforce Tower and Transamerica Pyramid. Explore shopping malls like the Embarcadero Center and enjoy parks such as Sue Biermann Park, all easily accessible via Muni bus and rail lines.
Downtown Sacramento
Undergoing revitalization, Downtown Sacramento boasts the retail and entertainment hub, Downtown Commons (DOCO), with Macy's and various dining options. Explore the California State Capitol, Sacramento City Hall, and enjoy convenient public transit options.
South of Market
Oracle Park and San Francisco Bay are top sights in South of Market, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Yerba Buena-Moscone Station or Fourth-Brannan Station to see more sights in the area.
Nob Hill
Luxury hotels, historic mansions, and Michelin-starred restaurants abound in this upscale area. Explore Union Square shopping district, Grace Cathedral, and the SF Masonic Auditorium for a taste of culture and history.
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Popular places to visit
Yosemite Valley
Explore the great outdoors at Yosemite Valley, a popular spot to commune with nature in Yosemite National Park. Amble around the area's riverfront, or seek out its hiking trails.
Redwood National and State Parks
Explore the great outdoors with a trip to Redwood National and State Parks, a popular green space in Eureka. You can seek out the hiking trails while in the area.
Stanford University
Enjoy the collegiate vibe around Stanford University, a top university in Palo Alto. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the thrills at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and find out why people love this theme park in Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area, or seek out the biking trails.
Napa Valley Wine Train
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Napa Valley Wine Train during your travels to Napa. Make time for the shops and biking trails in this romantic area.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Take the family to visit the sea life at Monterey Bay Aquarium and find out why this is a popular attraction in Monterey. Stroll along the area's marina, or simply savor its seafood restaurants.
- Yosemite Valley
- Redwood National and State Parks
- Stanford University
- Yosemite National Park
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Napa Valley Wine Train
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Oracle Park
- Pier 39
- Golden Gate Park
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Levi's Stadium
- Monterey Bay
- San Francisco Bay
- Moscone Convention Center
- Golden 1 Center
- Tesla Motors
- Palisades Tahoe
- Santana Row Shopping Center
- Lombard Street
- Alcatraz Island
- Jack London Square
- Sonoma Plaza
- WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
- San Jose McEnery Convention Center
- 17-Mile Drive
- SAP Center at San Jose
- Carmel Beach
- Chase Center
- Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
- Cache Creek Casino Resort
- Cannery Row