California Pacific Charter Schools highly suggests closing your computer this spring break and getting outside to explore all that California has to offer with your families and friends. Below, you’ll find different locations that promise both educational enrichment and engaging experiences. Check out the descriptions, prices, and related links to find accommodations nearby!

Golden Gate Bridge

Why you’ve got to go: 

This iconic landmark offers not only breathtaking views but also a glimpse into California’s rich history, making it a must-visit destination for all ages.

What to do:  

Take a hike, rent a bike, or simply stroll along the bridge’s three-mile span. For a unique perspective, take a ferry ride underneath the bridge. For a quieter experience, head to Marin Headlands.

For: Ages 5 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square

Related: Fun Things to Do in San Francisco with Kids

San Diego Zoo

Why you’ve got to go: 

As the largest zoo in the world focused on conservation, the San Diego Zoo promises an unforgettable experience with its diverse range of animals and interactive exhibits, making it perfect for families seeking both fun and education.

What to do: 

Explore exhibits featuring pandas, polar bears, cheetahs, and more. Kids can even feed some of the animals by hand, while educational shows and guided tours offer insights into conservation efforts and animal behavior.

For: Ages 3 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

Related: Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

Disneyland

Why you’ve got to go: 

Disneyland is not just a theme park; it’s a place where dreams come true for children of all ages, offering a magical escape filled with beloved characters, thrilling rides, and enchanting lands.

What to do: 

Enjoy thrilling rides like Space Mountian or the Incredi-coaster, meet beloved characters, and explore themed lands like Tomorrowland and Fantasyland. Don’t miss the nightly fireworks show!

For: All ages. Some rides have height restrictions, so you’ll need to do some homework.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Anaheim

Related: Fun Things to Do in Anaheim with Kids

Griffith Observatory

Why you’ve got to go:

For families fascinated by the mysteries of the universe, Griffith Observatory provides an ideal setting, with its free admission, captivating exhibits, and opportunities for stargazing, promising an unforgettable experience for all ages.

What to do: 

Peer through telescopes, enjoy a picnic in the park, and explore interactive astronomy exhibits, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city. You might recognize it from the movie La La Land, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

For: Up to 18 years.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mama Shelter Los Angeles

Related: Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids

Lake Tahoe

Why you’ve got to go:

A year-round outdoor paradise, Lake Tahoe beckons families with its stunning natural beauty and abundance of recreational activities, offering something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene surroundings.

What to do: 

If you visit during warmer times, swim, hike, boat, or fish is the beautiful waters. If you’re there when it’s a bit colder, enjoy winter activities like snowboarding and skiing. Explore the area’s rich history and American heritage.

For: All ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Landing Resort and Spa

Related: Fun Things to Do in Lake Tahoe with Kids

Santa Monica Pier

Why you’ve got to go:

Santa Monica Pier isn’t just any seaside attraction; it’s a vibrant hub of entertainment, offering classic amusement park rides, beachside relaxation, and captivating street performances, ensuring a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.

What to do:

Ride the Ferris wheel, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy street performances. Take a walking tour to learn about the pier’s history.

For: Ages 3 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels

Related: Fun Things to Do in Santa Monica with Kids

Yosemite National Park

Why you’ve got to go:

Yosemite National Park isn’t just another park; it’s a breathtaking wonderland where families can immerse themselves in nature’s beauty, embark on unforgettable adventures, and create cherished memories together amidst iconic landscapes.

What to do: 

Camp, hike, fish, and take in the stunning scenery. Challenge teens to hike the Half Dome or explore the John Muir Trail. You will need a pass to drive through during the warmer months, so be sure to check the NPS page linked above before you visit.

For: All ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Hotel at Black Oak Casino Resort

Crystal Cove State Park

Why you’ve got to go:

Crystal Cove State Park isn’t just a coastal gem; it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities from tidepool exploration to mountain biking, ensuring a memorable experience for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.

What to do:  

Explore tide pools, go swimming, mountain biking, or simply relax on the beach. Consider camping at the lodges for a historic experience.

For: All ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Resort at Pelican Hill

Raging Waters

Why you’ve got to go: 

This waterpark is spread over 60 acres and is the largest in the state. It’s a great place for the tots and mom and dad to have fun, with over 50 rides and attractions. From vertical slides to wave pools, there’s every water-based entertainment option here.

What to do: 

Get your bathing suit out and hop on rides like Aqua Rocket and the Dark Hole tube slide. Rent a cabana for a relaxing break.

For: Ages 5 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 1 Hotel West Hollywood

Joshua Tree National Park

Why you’ve got to go: 

Joshua Tree National Park isn’t just a desert landscape; it’s a surreal playground of otherworldly rock formations, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails, offering families a chance to explore and marvel at the wonders of the natural world.

What to do: 

Hike, camp, and marvel at the iconic Joshua Trees, discovering hidden oases and rugged rock formations along the way. Don’t miss attractions like Black Rock Canyon and Keys View, offering breathtaking vistas and opportunities for exploration.

For: All ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites Twentynine Palms – Joshua Tree National Park

Related: Things to Do in Joshua Tree with Kids

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Why you’ve got to go:

Monterey Bay Aquarium isn’t just any aquarium; it’s a window into the fascinating world beneath the waves, where families can marvel at diverse marine life, engage in interactive exhibits, and learn about the importance of ocean conservation.

What to do:  

Explore exhibits featuring over 600 species, including the only sunfish in captivity, learning about marine conservation and biodiversity. Don’t miss the Ocean’s Edge Wing, offering stunning views of Monterey Bay and its inhabitants.

For: Ages 3 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa

Related: Fun Things to Do in Monterey with Kids

Calico Ghost Town

Why you’ve got to go:

Calico Ghost Town isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a living museum where families can step back in time, explore historic buildings, and uncover the mysteries of the Old West, promising a journey filled with adventure and discovery for all ages.

What to do: 

Take a ghost tour, explore old mines, and soak in the town’s rich history, discovering tales of outlaws and pioneers. Perfect for a unique photoshoot, capturing the essence of the Old West against the backdrop of desert landscapes.

For: Ages 5 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn and Suites Barstow

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Why you’ve got to go:

Six Flags Magic Mountain isn’t just another amusement park; it’s a thrill-seeker’s paradise, boasting record-breaking roller coasters, exhilarating rides, and family-friendly attractions, ensuring an adrenaline-fueled adventure for visitors of all ages.

What to do: 

Enjoy roller coasters like Goliath and Batman, or explore kid-friendly areas like Canyon Blaster, providing endless excitement and entertainment. Six Flags Magic Mountain promises a day filled with thrills and unforgettable memories.

For: Ages 3 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Everly Hotel

Living Desert

Why you’ve got to go: 

This is a zoo where the little ones will have the chance to learn the importance of conservation. The natural wonders, exotic plants, and animals of the desert will enthrall the whole family. It’s the intersection of entertainment and profound education.

What to do: 

Spot animals like foxes, camels, and giraffes, and enjoy programs at the Tennity Amphitheater. You can also go for a hike along the San Andreas Nature Trail. 

For: Up to 18 years of age.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa

Crissy Field

Why you’ve got to go: 

This was once an airfield which has now been turned into a campground on the beach. It’s a picturesque retreat offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, family-friendly activities, and opportunities for outdoor adventure, making it the perfect destination for a day of fun in the sun.

What to do: 

Rent a bike, go for a swim, or enjoy a picnic at this family-friendly California beach, be sure to bring a picnic basket!

For: All ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairmont San Francisco

Related: Fun Things to Do with Kids in The Bay Area

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Why you’ve got to go: 

Lassen Volcanic National Park isn’t just any park; it’s a geothermal wonderland where families can witness bubbling mud pots, boiling pools, and otherworldly landscapes, promising a unique and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

What to do: 

You can go for a hike while checking out boiling mud and water spaces. Take a walk over the boardwalk and head towards the Big Boiler. While you’re here, you might want to check out Boiling Springs Lake. It is a bubbling lake that reaches above 125 degrees. 

For: Ages 5 and up. Not for families with toddlers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Rose Quartz Inn

Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Why you’ve got to go: 

This park is spread over 300 acres and boasts of a museum, botanical gardens and a sundial bridge. That’s just the beginning. There’s also a wildlife center the kids will love exploring. It’s a beautiful mix of sustainability and playfulness.

What to do: 

You can check out the nano exhibit along with your kids and show them how plants grow in real time. This is called the “Rooted” feature. There’s a lot of art to soak in at the student art exhibition. You can also go on nature trails and don’t skip the inside of the arboretum.

For: All ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge

Legoland California

Why you’ve got to go:

Legoland California isn’t just a theme park; it’s a colorful world of imagination and creativity where families can build, play, and explore endless possibilities with millions of Lego bricks, ensuring a day of fun and adventure for young and old alike.

What to do:

Get a bathing suit for the waterpark rides or head to the race track with your Legoland driver’s license. Don’t forget to unleash your creativity and build something extraordinary with the millions of plastic bricks available.

For: Kids up to 12 years of age.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa

Related: Best Waterpark Hotels in California

Universal Studios

Why you’ve got to go:

Universal Studios isn’t just a movie studio; it’s an immersive theme park where families can go behind the scenes of their favorite films, experience thrilling rides, and step into iconic worlds, promising an unforgettable day of Hollywood magic and excitement.

What to do: 

Experience movie magic firsthand as you witness stunts being practiced and maybe even run into a Hollywood star. Don’t miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can sample butterbeer and explore Hogsmeade.

For: Ages 3 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sunset Tower Hotel

Catalina Island

Why you’ve got to go:

Catalina Island isn’t just any island getaway; it’s a picturesque paradise offering a wealth of outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and opportunities for wildlife encounters, ensuring a memorable escape for families seeking adventure and relaxation.

What to do: 

Dive into a ton of activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming for the grown-ups, or enjoy building sandcastles with the kids. Take a whale watch ferry ride or pick a trail for hiking, offering something for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the island’s coast or hiking its scenic trails, Catalina Island promises an unforgettable adventure.

For: Kids up to 18 will be thrilled but it’s for the whole family.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aurora Hotel

Related: Things to Do in Catalina Island with Kids

Lake Shasta

Why you’ve got to go:

Lake Shasta isn’t just a lake; it’s a serene retreat surrounded by pristine wilderness, offering families a chance to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures, making it the perfect destination for a tranquil getaway.

What to do: 

Rent a houseboat and cruise around exploring the coves, or try fishing, water skiing, and paddleboarding. For land lovers, head out for a hike or try your luck at fishing from the shore.

For: All ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge