17 Things to do in California

When it comes to things to do in California, you'll be spoilt for choice. No matter what your interests, there's more than enough to fill every day of your family holiday. You can spot your favourite stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, ride the Palm Springs Aerial tramway over desert and forests, or take a road trip along the iconic Pacific Coastal Highway.

No matter where you stay or what you do in California, you're guaranteed a holiday that's truly unforgettable. Wondering what else to do in California? Let's take a closer look at some of your options below and see what you could get up to.

1. Take a tour of Dodger Stadium

Make the most of your opportunity to see one of the oldest baseball stadiums in Major League Baseball with a visit to Dodger Stadium. And if you're lucky enough to get a ticket for a game, you'll be able to experience the electric atmosphere of game day for yourself.

2. Explore California Science Center

Spend the morning at the California Science Center in Exposition Park and you can see the real-life space shuttle Endeavour hanging from the ceiling. Plus there's a host of other artefacts to explore and fun activities like rock climbing to enjoy.

3. Head for Griffith Observatory

You won't want to miss the panoramic views on offer from the Griffith Observatory. It's the best way to see the City of Angels. You'll also be able to spot the famous Hollywood sign from here, giving you the best views in town!

4. Hit Venice Beach

This has to be one of the world's most famous seaside resorts, so a trip to Venice Beach is an absolute must if you're looking for great things to do in California. Don't forget to talk a walk down the famous boulevard, also known as Ocean Front Walk.

5. Daytrip to Universal Studios Hollywood

You can't come to California and not do a studio tour! This one is the most famous, so if you're looking for an action-packed day out, look no further than Universal Studios Hollywood, with its incredible film studio and theme park attractions. When it comes to things to do in California, it's at the top of the list for families and film buffs.

6. Admire art at the Legion of Honor

Housed within a French neoclassical building, the Legion of Honor is an impressive art museum with a collection that spans over 4,000 years of history. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday.

7. Visit the Walt Disney Family Museum

Get to know the man behind the mouse at the Walt Disney Family Museum. First opened in 2009 by Walt Disney's eldest daughter, here you'll learn about the fascinating life and legacy of Walt Disney, and gain an insight into how he came up with so many magical stories.

8. Learn something at the California Academy of Sciences

The California Academy of Sciences is one of the biggest natural history museums anywhere in the world, housing over 26 million varieties of animals and plants. With so much to see, it's a brilliant day out for the whole family.

9. Walk over the Golden Gate bridge

Head up the coast to San Francisco and you could be in a completely different state. This part of California is packed with great sites too, and top of the list is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge. This incredible feat of engineering is instantly recognisable, with its tall towers, Art Deco styling, and striking 'International Orange' colour.

10. Uncover the secrets of Alcatraz

Just off the coast of San Francisco Bay, you'll discover the famous island of Alcatraz. Today, it's all very peaceful, but from 1934 to 1963, it was home to a maximum security federal prison. It's one of the top things to do in Calfornia.

Things to do

Best hotels in California

Freehand Los Angeles

Freehand Los Angeles

USA, California, Los Angeles

Hollywood Hotel

Hollywood Hotel

USA, California, Hollywood

Studio 6 by Motel 6

Studio 6 by Motel 6

USA, California, Los Angeles

The Westin Bonaventure Hotel And Suites, Los Angel

The Westin Bonaventure Hotel And Suites, Los Angel

USA, California, Los Angeles

Quality Inn Rosemead

Quality Inn Rosemead

USA, California, Los Angeles

Doubletree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown

Doubletree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown

USA, California, Los Angeles

Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor Hotel

Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor Hotel

USA, California, Los Angeles

Candlewood Suites Anaheim Resort

Candlewood Suites Anaheim Resort

USA, California, Anaheim

Hilton Los Angeles Airport

Hilton Los Angeles Airport

USA, California, Los Angeles

Best Western Plus South Bay Hotel

Best Western Plus South Bay Hotel

USA, California, Los Angeles

InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown

InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown

USA, California, Los Angeles

Home2 Suites by Hilton Houston / Pasadena, TX

Home2 Suites by Hilton Houston / Pasadena, TX

USA, California, Los Angeles

Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza

Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza

USA, California, Los Angeles

Holiday Inn West Covina

Holiday Inn West Covina

USA, California, Los Angeles

Holiday Inn Los Angeles Gateway - Torrance

Holiday Inn Los Angeles Gateway - Torrance

USA, California, Los Angeles