2024 travel in California best places 🧳
🗺️ I moved to California recently, and I have been in my touristy phase! I have been to many different places in the San Francisco Bay Area , recommended to me by my local in-laws. There are so many great places that many people DON'T KNOW about. You won't always find these places on a simple Google search. Keep reading for my honest reviews. 👩💻
DESTINATIONS
✈️ San Francisco, California
📍 Fort Point National Historic Site
✨ Pros: I feel like I'm going back in time! This is a really fun historic place to visit. It has been preserved very well. Go exploring through the multi-level fort with many different rooms and hallways, almost feels like a maze. The top is a great photo spot!! Bring your family, friends, or spouse for a unique visit. There were only a few other groups when we went so it was nice to have a quieter place without so many crowds.
👀 Cons: A lot of stairwells will make it difficult for some to walk through the fort. Be careful if you have pets or small children because there are a lot of tall ledges.
🗺️ Tips: Bring your camera, and bring your jacket. It does get cold with the wind right next to the bay. It's a great place for photography and taking pictures with your loved ones.
⭐️ 5/5
✈️ San Francisco, California
✨ Pros: Delicious tasting array of desserts and drinks. I got the dirty chai latte and it was delicious!! My family got the cannoli desserts and macaroons and they loved them. The staff was friendly and the desserts were displayed so well.
👀 Cons: There are not a lot of options for allergies. It is a small shop so there's not as much indoor seating.
🗺️ Tips: It would be best to go at a less busy time due to low seating options. I recommend trying many different desserts and having either the coffee or chai with it!
⭐️ 4/5
✈️ San Francisco, California
📍 City Lights Booksellers & Publishers
✨ Pros: The cutest bookstore ever with options for everyone. They have a huge variety of different genres. They have classics, modern love novels, nonfiction, young adult, fantasy and sci-fi, etc. Every wall is lined with books and there are multiple rooms. This is a must visit stop in San Francisco.
👀 Cons: The bookstore is a little small and can't hold a ton of people. The aisles are a little tighter than general stores.
🗺️ Tips: This is a great stop to make with anyone who is a book lover. You could have a fun date and pick out a book for your significant other, or even just with friends. It's fun to spend time browsing here when the weather gets cold, as well!
⭐️ 5/5
#placestovisit #lemon8challenge #TravelWithLemon8 #californiatravel #travelwithme2024
My first few months in California have been an absolute adventure, especially discovering the charm of the San Francisco Bay Area. While I've shared some of my favorite hidden gems in San Francisco, I've also realized that California is a massive state with endless possibilities. For anyone searching for 'California' travel ideas, it's worth thinking about what kind of experience you're after. Do you love bustling city life, serene nature, or a blend of both? This state truly has it all, and finding your perfect spot often means looking beyond the most obvious attractions. Even within the Bay Area, there’s so much more to uncover. Beyond the historic Fort Point National Historic Site, which offers incredible views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge (especially stunning at sunset!), I'm keen to delve deeper into different neighborhoods. I've found that walking tours or even just strolling around with no specific destination can lead to amazing discoveries. For instance, after savoring a truly delicious cannoli dessert and a dirty chai latte at Cavalli Cafe, I realized how much local eateries add to the travel experience. Don't be afraid to step into a small, unassuming spot – that's often where the best flavors and most authentic vibes are found! If you’re planning a trip to California, here are a few things I’ve picked up that might help you make the most of your adventure. First, the weather can vary dramatically, even within a short drive. Always pack layers! A light jacket is a must, especially near the San Francisco Bay, where the wind can be surprisingly brisk even on a sunny day. Second, consider renting a car if you plan to explore outside major cities; while public transport in places like San Francisco is great, California's beauty truly opens up on its scenic drives. Think about the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, or even a day trip inland to one of the state's renowned wine regions. My experience at City Lights Booksellers & Publishers taught me that the 'best' places aren't always the biggest attractions or the most crowded tourist traps. Sometimes, it's the quiet bookstore with a rich history, the cozy cafe serving up unique treats, or the historic site with a unique story that leaves the biggest impression. So, when you're planning your California adventure, don't just stick to the well-trodden path. Look for local guides, ask shop owners for recommendations, and be open to spontaneous detours. You might just find your own unforgettable hidden gem, whether it's a quaint beach town, a quirky museum, or a breathtaking viewpoint you stumbled upon. Happy travels in California!
