Best of California (Classic)
Overview
Highlights
- San Diego: Board your coach and enjoy far-reaching ocean vistas as your journey takes you along the coast to Los Angeles.
- Los Angeles: Explore the rich culture, history, and architecture of downtown Los Angeles from the 18th century to the present with the LA Conservancy - a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of historic landmarks. Experience a bit of nostalgia in Downtown as you ride aboard the lovingly restored Angel's Flight Railway - the shortest railway system built in the 20th century. Continue your journey through DTLA exploring iconic places like Grand Central Market, Pershing Square, the Bradbury Buidling, and the US Bank Tower.
- Paso Robles: In the heart of the lovely Paso Robles wine country lies the beautiful Pasolivo ranch which has been producing award-winning California olive oil and welcoming visitors to their orchards and olive oil tasting room for over a decade. Be introduced to Pasolivo and its history, followed by a short walk to the olive groves. Learn about how olives are grown, milled, and pressed. Afterwards, enjoy a structured olive oil tasting including four olive oils, spices, vinegars, breads.
- Yosemite National Park: The stunning Mariposa Grove is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. Many feel the 1,800 year old Grizzly Giant is worth the visit all by itself. It measures 209 feet high with a circumference of 96 feet. Includes Big Trees Loop (.3 miles), Grizzly Giant Loop (2 miles). Without shuttle access it's a 4-mile roundtrip hike to Mariposa Grove from parking area. In 1864 President Lincoln signed legislation protecting the Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley for ""public use, resort, and recreation."" This landmark legislation holds an important place in our country's history and was enacted at a time when the nation was embroiled in the Civil War. For the first time in our nation's history, the federal government set aside scenic natural areas to be protected for the benefit of future generations. Later added to Yosemite National Park in 1906, the Mariposa Grove is a popular destination within the park.
- Yosemite National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site first protected in 1864 and a sought-after destination, Yosemite National Park is known for its waterfalls, deep valleys, granite cliffs, lakes, meadows and giant sequoias. Stretching nearly 1,200 square miles, almost 95% of the park is designated wilderness.
- San Francisco: Linking San Francisco to Marin County across the three-mile Golden Gate strait, this magnificent suspension bridge was built between 1933 and 1937. Renowned as an engineering marvel due to the precise planning, design and construction processes that were applied, all over treacherous open water, it remains one of America's most fascinating landmarks.
- San Francisco: See the city’s highlights on your sightseeing tour as you pass Union Square, Golden Gate Park, Japanese Tea Garden, and Embarcadero.
- San Francisco: Join a youth-led walking tour of Chinatown's historic alleyways where you will learn of their origins and hear stories from those who call this place home.
- Yosemite National Park: Meet a local naturalist guide to learn how rock-climbers help preserve and protect Yosemite's ecosystem. Your visit contributes to the Yosemite Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of the park, and targets United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 Life on Land improving, protecting, and conserving wildlife and/or restores natural ecosystems.
- Los Angeles: Downtown Los Angeles has established itself as one of the country's great dining destinations. Tonight we'll visit a popular restaurant highlighting LA's local culture and cuisine. Sol Agave - is an upscale Mexican concept using organic ingredients, fresh sustainable seafood, prime steaks, all natural chicken and pork with out losing the authenticity of MEXICO!
What's this trip about?
Details
Travel Themes
Destinations
Activities
Itinerary
Kick off your trip at your downtown hotel neighboring the historic Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy, putting you right in the soul of the city.Perhaps take a walk along the bay before joining your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner at your hotel.
Kimpton Alma, San Diego
Dinner with Wine
Discover America’s finest city as you embark on a sightseeing tour with your Travel Director. Journey through the Gaslamp Quarter, the historic heart of San Diego and Balboa Park, one of North America’s most iconic urban parks. Admire its lush and landscaped gardens i...
An exciting day awaits as you set out to explore lively Los Angeles. Ride on the landmark Angel’s Flight funicular for a taste of early 20th-century nostalgia. Continue your journey through Downtown Los Angeles exploring Grand Central Market, the Bradbury Building, an...
Drive along one of the most scenic drives in America known as the Pacific Coast Highway. This stretch of freeway hugs the coast of California offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Take a stroll on the wooden Santa Monica Pier that juts 500 meters into the Paci...
This morning we visit "The Danish Capitol of America" in Solvang, California. In 1911, a new settlement was founded around the mission by a group of Danish-Americans who purchased 9,000 acres (3,600 ha) of the surrounding Rancho San Carlos de Jonata, to establish a Da...
Journey to the majestic Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our first stop will be the stunning Mariposa Grove, the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. In 1864 President Lincoln signed legislation protecti...
Join the Yosemite Conversancy and meet a naturalist guide/climber to get familiar with the ins and outs of rock climbing. Take a step back and spend time watching experts in action. Widely considered the Mecca of the rock-climbing world, you'll see the famed El Capita...
Travel towards the West Coast, cross the Bay Bridge and arrive in buzzing San Francisco. Head to the Fisherman’s Wharf, once home to the city’s colorful fishing fleet and today a popular district full of restaurants, cafes and shops. This afternoon, join your Travel D...
This morning, venture across the road and to the Ferry Building and shop around at one of America’s most famous farmers markets. Browse the stalls offering organic produce, flowers and regional artisan specialties such as breads, cheeses, and jams. On your city sights...
It is time to bid farewell to your fellow travelers and new friends as you depart at your own leisure with plenty of new memories.
Breakfast
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Trusted Customer
Apr 2024
Overall great experience.
The flight schedule coming home we had 3 flights. Coming...
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As the global leader in premium tours, Insight Vacations delivers all the sights and insights of destinations up close and personal. Each tour is crafted in true comfort and style with premium 5 and 4 star hotels, small groups and customized coaches with extra leg room. The brand’s category leading dining options including the unique dine-around and dine-at-home experiences means that guests enjoy a culinary journey through the places they visit. An extensive Vegetarian option across all tour series further compliments the elevated dining offering. With a Make Travel Matter Experience®, that creates a positive impact for both the visitor and visited, plus also supports the United Nations sustainable Development Goals, included on each and every trip, Insight Vacations leads the way in immersive responsible travel.
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