Friday, March 22, 2013

California Tourist Attractions

The state of California is referred to as the “Golden State.”  It is the most populous state.  It is the third biggest in area next only to Alaska and Texas respectively.  The capital city is Sacramento.

A. Tourist Attractions

There are a number of memorable tourist attractions found in California.  Being a huge state, the choices of must-see destinations are endless. These include the following popular spots:

1. San Diego Zoo –  this is one of the best, if not the best, zoos in the country.  It houses some 4,000 different species of animals, some of which are rare and exotic.  The area is divided into 10 bioclimatic zones.

2. Disneyland – sister company of Florida’s Disney World, it is a place where you can see all your favourite cartoon characters from Cinderella to Snow White to Mickey Mouse and so many others.

3. Hollywood – of course, the state of California is synonymous with celebrities from Hollywood.  All movie and tv personalities have worked at Hollywood at one time.

4. Golden Gate Bridge is the biggest suspension bridge in the country.  It was constructed in 1937.  The bridge is a testament of astounding engineering feat.

5. La Brea Tar Pits is an important archaeological site located in Los Angeles.  This is where a number of prehistoric animals are found.  The asphalt of the soil helps fossilized these long-deceased animals.  Paleontologists conduct their research and digging in the site.

6. Napa Valley is the biggest wine producing area of US.  It is just 50 miles from San Francisco.  Guests would love its wine tasting session where you can taste the wine for free.

7. Yosemite National Park is a natural beauty which is famous among rock climbers.  The Yosemite Falls is one of the main attractions of the site.  It is one of the very first wilderness parks in the US. Its area is around 1,200 sq. miles.

8. Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular food destination in San Francisco due to its fresh seafood served by some of the best restaurants.

9. Alcatraz Island - This used to be a high-security prison on an island.  You can visit the cells where some of the most dreaded criminals in America used to reside.

10. Monterey Bay Aquarium – this shows a collection of huge variety of marine life.

11. Sea World San Diego – also features a huge collection of marine life. Shamu, a killer whale, is its star performer that gives performances often. They also have a number of exciting rides.

12. Balboa Park in San Diego is the biggest urban park of US. It has 15 major museums, performing arts venues, amazing landscapes and gardens and a zoo.  Balboa Park houses the famous Children’s Museum, Botanical Building, El Prado and the Fleet Science Center.