There are hundreds of unusual things for you to do when vacationing in California if you don’t want to join the crowds at Disneyland. From haunted houses to breathtaking gardens, the poppy state has them all. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
1. Botanical Gardens
If you are near San Francisco, don’t miss the Botanical Gardens. With over 8,500 plants in the culturally themed areas of the gardens, you can find yourself in Japan, South Africa, or on the moon. There are colorful areas, Zen gardens, and even water features.
2. Giant Dinosaurs
If you are vacationing with children, stop by the Cabazon dinosaurs for one of the most unusual sights in California. Climb into the enormous creatures and take the stairs up the neck or sit and enjoy the view as your children play on the grassy area surrounding the monster’s giant feet.
3. Unusual Churches
Want something to do on Sunday? Visit some of the unusual churches in California. The Wayfarer Chapel has beautiful windows surrounded by plants, and the California Temple in San Diego has sculptured grounds with benches you can sit on while soaking up inspiration. Don’t forget there are also worship services in Lemon Grove CA, that you can attend while on vacation.
4. Winchester House
This unusual house is a Victorian mansion that is said to be haunted by numerous ghosts. Construction workers built stairways into walls, doorways with no opening, and rooms that make no sense – all at the direction of Sarah Winchester, the home’s owner. Sarah feared she would die if construction ever stopped on the Winchester House, and the story goes that construction paused for one hour, and she died that night.
No matter what type of vacation you enjoy, there are unusual things to do while in California. If you have no idea where to begin, check out the four areas listed above, and don’t forget your camera!