Things to do in Northern California
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Most popular experiences in Northern California
Attractions
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San Francisco CityPASS®: Experience 4 must-see attractions
Cruises & boat tours
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History & culture
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California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
Private & custom tours
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GoCar San Francisco Tour
Wildlife & nature
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Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz!
What to do in Northern California
Popular places to visit
Yosemite Valley
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.
Redwood National and State Parks
Walk amid towering trees, hike along scenic coastal trails and spot rare wildlife at this spectacular national park in North Coast California.
Stanford University
Enjoy the student 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.
Palisades Tahoe
Two expansive ski resorts in North Lake Tahoe have joined to provide some of the finest snow experiences on the whole continent, with an added dash of celebrity sparkle.
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
When this mountain’s very long ski season ends, great mountain biking begins. Enjoy the fresh air, beautiful scenery and fun events year-round.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Areas of Northern California
Union Square
Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Union Square. Check out top attractions like Westin St Francis Hotel Glass Elevators and Union Square, and jump on the metro at Powell St & Geary Blvd Stop or Powell St & Post St Stop to see more of the city.
Downtown San Francisco
Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Warfield Theatre and Golden Gate Theatre are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.
Fisherman's Wharf
Travellers love Fisherman's Wharf for its popular shops, and you can see more of San Francisco by jumping on the metro at Jones St and Beach St Stop or Jefferson St & Taylor St Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Red and White Fleet at Pier 43 and a Half and Ghirardelli Square.
Downtown Sacramento
Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Sacramento. Top attractions like K Street Mall and Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament are major draws, and you can catch the metro at 8th & H/County Center Station or 7th & I/County Center Station to see more of the city.
Downtown San Jose
Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like San Pedro Square and San Jose Museum of Art, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.
Downtown Napa
Downtown Napa is a destination visitors seek out for its ample dining options, fine wine and beautiful river views. You might also want to check out attractions like Napa River or Uptown Theater while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
- Yosemite Valley
- Redwood National and State Parks
- Stanford University
- Yosemite National Park
- Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Chase Center
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Pier 39
- Googleplex
- Napa Valley Wine Train
- Alcatraz Island
- Moscone Convention Center
- Golden Gate Park
- Muir Woods National Monument
- Golden 1 Center
- Winchester Mystery House
- Presidio of San Francisco
- University of California
- Hotels near Yosemite Valley
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