California has the largest manufacturing sector in the U.S., and is the center for the film and television industry.  Four of the nation’s largest cities are in California – Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, and San Francisco - although Sacramento, its capital, isn’t as large.  Los Angeles and San Francisco also house the state’s two international airports, which are among the busiest in the world.

California is also bigger than any other state, rivaled by only Alaska and Texas.  Its varying landscape creates a number of different climates appease the more than 33 million Californians year round. The eastern side of the state borders the Sierra Nevada. Out west, beaches and cliffs showcase the Pacific Ocean.

The Klamath Mountains reside in the northwest with barren deserts across the southwest, and the famous forests of Douglas fir and Redwoods along the Coast Ranges. 

The Spanish first colonized the state and mission chains were established in 1769. The Gold Rush of 1849 brought thousands of miners searching for their fortune.  The Mexican war, which ended in 1848, gave the California land mass to the United States along with several other regions which later became states.  In 1850, during the civil war, California officially became a state and was admitted as a Union state.

Attractions

Since the weather is nice enough to spend almost the entire year outside, it would make sense that the Redwood trees are a big attraction.  The world’s tallest living tree - 367.5 feet – is a sight in itself.  If you visit the state’s coast between December and April, you may see some of the 20,000 gray whales that pass the shores.  There are also snow resorts for ski and snowboard lovers. If you don’t dig snow, California has a number of theme and amusement parks, including world famous Disneyland. Don’t forget Yosemite Park either, the home of Yosemite Falls, the longest drop of any waterfall in the United States. 

Time-travelers should visit the Northern California Renaissance Festival. Get lost in a bygone era where Knights were romantic, turkey legs were cuisine, and swordsmen were abundant.  Or try riding a horse yourself in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.  The 120 miles of riding trails are a great way to capture some of the state’s rustic beauty.

To do a little shopping or even window-shopping, head down to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, or the Beverly Center, with Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s Armani, and the Hard Rock Café.  Who knows whom you might see there!

And why not check out the over 700 wineries and try some of California’s delicious wines.  Copia - a multi-functional company - blends food, wine, and the arts for a unique experience.  Some days it’s wine, others succulent chocolate. Either way, you’ll leave satisfied.

Accommodations

California offers a wide variety of accommodations to fit any budget and taste. Prices range from $69 to $500 depending on location and hotel chain.  RV’ers can stay at a private RV parks for $8.50 to $175, almost all of which offer monthly rates for visitors planning longer stays.  For the budget conscious traveler, there are numerous hostels and overnight camping at state and national park camping facilities.

Depending on where you want to stay, you can find a variety of offerings for your sleeping accommodations. You can hide away in the desert of the city, or have a barbecue on your own private patio.

California’s hotels offer varieties of amenities to its visitors. Most hotel rooms are equipped with an air conditioner; room services, telephone, and more. You’ll also find great resort facilities such as a swimming pool, spa, and fitness studios with massage, Fax service, baby sitting, internet access, location events, adventure activities, gym, sauna and relaxation treatments. Kids stay for free at many hotels.