If you still don’t know where to travel or what places in the world to visit on Christmas and New Year’s Eve, we suggest you visit California.
California has many beautiful places to offer you. Choose between beautiful California beaches, great nightlife, California culture, or beautiful California nature that will take your breath.
The 5 Largest California cities by population:
1. Los Angeles is one of the world’s centers of media, business, and international trade. It is the second-most-populous city in the United States. It is also home to renowned institutions covering a broad range of educational and professional fields, and it is one of the most substantial economic engines of the United States. Los Angeles (and its Hollywood district) lead the world in producing entertainment such as motion pictures, television, and recorded music.
2. San Diego sits in the extreme south of California on the border with Mexico. The city has miles of beaches and a number of U.S. military facilities as well as the world’s busiest land border crossing. It is known as “the birthplace of California” since it was the first European landfall and the first European settlement in present-day California. Although it is a large city, San Diego doesn’t encompass the headquarters of very many large corporations. Instead, the city’s economy largely relies on US defense and military-related industries, tourism, and some international trade. It is home to a number of institutions of higher learning, including the University of California, San Diego, the University of San Diego, San Diego State University, New School of Architecture + Design, and Point Loma Nazarene University.
3. San Jose was founded on November 29, 1777, as one of the first towns in the Spanish colony of Nueva California, which later became Alta California. The town of San Jose served from 1849-1851 as the first state capital when California gained statehood in 1850. After more than 150 years as an agricultural center, San Jose grew due to demand for housing from soldiers returning from World War II, as well as the city’s aggressive expansion policy during the 1950s and 1960s as it annexed large portions of land area which helped increase its population. By the 1990s, San Jose’s location within the then-booming local technology industry earned the city the nickname Capital of Silicon Valley, and it hosts several prominent technology companies including Adobe Systems and Cisco Systems. San Jose is home to the National Hockey League’s San Jose Sharks in addition to Major League Soccer’s San Jose Earthquakes, as well as San Jose State University.
4. San Francisco is a popular international tourist destination renowned for its beauty, cosmopolitan flair, steep rolling hills, and eclectic mix of Victorian and modern architecture. The city is surrounded by water on three sides and has many famous landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, cable cars and streetcars, Coit Tower, and Chinatown. The city has a diverse population, including large and long-established Asian American and LGBT communities. It is the most densely populated major city in California and is the second most densely populated major city in the United States, only after New York City. It is also the only consolidated city-county in the state of California. San Francisco is also home to the largest social media, technology, and Bio-Tech industries in the world. The City is also ranked the most expensive city in the United States and stands third in the world.
5. Fresno is at the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, a leading agricultural area in the United States and the world. Fresno is the closest major city to Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park. Fresno is the largest inland city in California. It is the home of California State University, Fresno. Fresno is also noted for its large Hmong and Armenian-American communities.
Some of the Best places to visit in California :
Phantom Waterfall or Coal Canyon Falls – waterfall at Coal Canyon near Oroville, California. The waterfall is 164 feet (50 m) high and runs off the edge of Coal Canyon.
Pigeon Point Lighthouse – built in 1871 to guide ships on the Pacific coast of California Port of San Diego.
Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe, California – Beautiful and peaceful place for family or every person that loves nature, clean air, and peace.
Redwood Forest – California – these trees are the tallest and one of the most massive tree species on Earth. The parks preserve other indigenous flora, fauna, grassland prairie, cultural resources, portions of rivers and other streams, and 37 miles (60 km) of pristine coastline.
Hollywood – Hollywood is perhaps one of the most interesting places in California. Hollywood is located in the heart of Los Angeles, one of the bustling cities in the U.S. Your stay in California would not be complete without visiting Hollywood. Hollywood is where your dreams will come into reality, wherein you will be able to have a chance to meet some of the world’s most popular celebrities and stars.
Visiting the Hollywood sign is an ideal thing to do when you are in California. This is where you will feel like a real star. You can also visit various film and television studios and sets. Get a chance to see some of the upscale and extravagant homes of the stars. Who knows, this might be your chance to meet your idol. This is considered one of the top travel destinations in California
Yosemite National Park – Yosemite National Park is another interesting travel destination in California. This is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. In this park, you can see breathtaking granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoia groves, and a plethora of fauna and flora. Being here in Yosemite will surely make you feel closer to nature.
Golden Gate Bridge – Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most popular places in California. Your visit to California would not be complete without seeing this iconic bridge. Taking pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge as your backdrop would surely make your friends envy you. This is only a once-in-a-lifetime chance, so don’t forget to visit the Golden Gate Bridge
Sparkling Santa Monica and Orange County Beaches – A stay in California would not be enjoyable if you will not experience its crystal-clear beaches. Since California is facing the Pacific Ocean, it will surely be imperative way for you to visit these beaches. As a matter of fact, it is ranked as the top 5 places to go in California. Whether you love sunbathing or surfing, it is the perfect spot to choose.
Big Sur – Big Sur is also another top California travel destination. This is a perfect spot if you are looking for a picture-perfect attraction. This is considered a scenic spot in California, wherein you can able to appreciate more the nature.
Napa Valley – Napa Valley is also an excellent spot to visit in California. If you are a wine enthusiast then be ready to tour various wineries and plantations, wherein you can able not just learn how wines are made, but you can also get a chance to have a free taste.
Night Life in California
Being known as one of the largest states in the U.S., you can expect that the nightlife in California is extremely exciting and amazing. California is not just known for its crystal clear beaches, notable attractions and landmarks, diverse culture, activities to do, and home of the brightest stars in the world, but also for its amazing nightlife.
Travelers always want to go to a place wherein they can able to relax and unwind away from the worries of work and stress. You just have to select the right places to go in California if you really wanted to have fun in the evening. This will surely be more exciting especially if you are with your friends or partner.
Beer Houses
California is popular for its fine gourmet beers and wines, so if you are looking for a place for you to unwind then you can just visit districts like Mendocino, Sonoma, and Napa Valley. This is the perfect spot if you are looking for the best beers and wine in town. You can expect that the drinks are made by experts.
Most of these wine and beer houses also offer some of the most mouth-watering and sumptuous dinners and desserts. If you want to take your partner on a date then it is the best way for you to be able to not just enjoy the wine or beer, but also enjoy the unique ambiance.
Nightclubs
There are also several nightclubs in the major cities of California that offer you the chance to enjoy the night. If you love dancing, there are numerous clubs and disco clubs that will certainly allow you to enjoy the night. They have some of the best DJs, who are known to play some of the best music that can surely make you move all night. However, keep in mind that the state of California has strict laws on alcohol then make sure to drink moderately. Do not drive if you think that you are drunk.
Pub Houses
If you just want to relax and listen to smooth music then you can go to some of their pub houses, wherein there are singers who will certainly entertain you. Some pub houses also offer the guest the chance to sing their favorite song.
Plays
Nightlife in California is not just all about California travel destinations, wine, and beers or pubs. There are various theaters in the state that is known to show plays, musicals, and dance, it is an excellent way how you can enjoy the nightlife in California.
Fine Dining Restaurants
Nightlife in California would not be complete if you will not try some of its premier fine dining restaurants. These upscale restaurants in California are known to serve lavish meals that you will never forget.
California is indeed an excellent destination to go to. This is because everything you need is already here. This is the reason why it is one of the most populous cities in the world. The uniqueness of California is what makes it an interesting destination to visit.
As the year comes to a close, many California destinations are preparing to ring in the New Year with celebratory events, festivals, dining experiences, and chic parties you won’t want to miss.
RING IN THE NEW YEAR IN WINE COUNTRY
JaM Cellars in Downtown Napa
Original rock bassist Les Claypool’s Bastard Jazz is coming to the JaM Cellars Ballroom in Downtown Napa for two New Year’s Eve parties on Dec. 30 and Dec. 31. Claypool will ring in the New Year with drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, saxophonist Skerik and percussionist Mike Dillon.
Bardessono Hotel and Spa’s New Year’s Eve Celebration Supper
Located in the heart of Napa Valley is Bardessono Hotel and Spa. The luxurious resort welcomes guests to enjoy a special New Year’s Eve dinner at Lucy Restaurant and Bar on Dec. 31. For those wanting an early dinner, the three-course meal begins seating at 5:30 p.m., while the Prix-Fixe Gala Seating menu, consisting of five courses, starts later at 9:00 p.m.
Sonoma County’s New Year’s Eve Dining Celebrations
At Cyrus, start New Year’s Eve with a glass of champagne or a glittering martini followed by canapé service. Indulge in an enhanced tasting menu with visits from Chef Douglas Keane at the Kitchen Table. Toast to 2023 with a glass of Krug Grande Cuveé and house-made bonbons to go. The Matheson in Healdsburg will feature a special New Year’s Eve six-course Chef’s Tasting Menu in the main dining room, while Roof106 will be open late with food, special drinks, and a DJ. Reservations are required. At the Flamingo Resort in Santa Rosa, book the “Ring in the New Year” package for luxurious accommodations for two and tickets to the New Year’s prix fixe dinner at the Lazeaway Club.
Napa Valley’s Silverado Resort and Spa’s New Year’s Eve Experiences
Napa jewel Silverado Resort and Spa, scenically located in the middle of iconic Napa Valley wine country, is offering two decadent and elegant New Year’s Eve experiences. With lovely golf course views, the hospitable Silverado signature restaurant, The Grill, will serve a five-course dinner. At the Mansion’s New Year’s Eve Party, revelers will toast 2023 with cocktails or champagne along with delicious hors d’oeuvres and sweets. Partying lasts until 1:00 a.m. after a balloon drop and entertainment by DJs.
Temecula Valley’s New Year’s Eve Grape Drop
Celebrate New Year’s Eve Temecula Valley style with their infamous Grape Drop. Temecula’s Grape Drop will take place at the Civic Center in Old Town where visitors and guests can ring in 2023 twice – once with the east coast at 9:00 p.m. and again with the west coast at midnight. Enjoy live music and dancing, delicious food, and a kid’s Fun Zone from 6:00-10:00 p.m. Wilson Creek Winery’s New Year’s Eve black-tie event will include a three-course handcrafted dinner, an open bar, desserts, and more. Or dance the night away at Fazeli Cellars New Year’s Eve party with live music, New Year activities, and great company.
HIGH SIERRA CELEBRATIONS
Tenaya Royale’s Agent 007 New Year’s Eve Party
Dance the night away at Tenaya at Yosemite’s “Tenaya Royale” New Year’s Eve Party. Revel in the spectacular Yosemite region in a scene right out of a spy film with casino games, food and drink, live entertainment from Mercy & The Heartbeats, and more. While the grown-ups are away, kids can countdown to the New Year at two special parties of their own – the Kids “Wild Safari” Party (ages 4-8) and the Kids “Camp Out” Party (ages 9-14). Tickets must be reserved to attend each party.
New Year’s Eve Party with Fireworks at Bass Lake
Usher in 2023 with The Pines Resort in Bass Lake for a family-friendly New Year’s Eve party. Enjoy a variety of music by DJ Hecktik, an all-new digital photo booth, party favors and snacks, and themed decor. At midnight, raise a toast to the new year with a complimentary glass of champagne. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. with music and entertainment starting at 8:30 pm. Full bar available (for purchase).
New Year’s Eve at Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort
Head to the snowcapped mountains in Tuolumne County for Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort’s Annual New Year’s Eve Party on Dec. 31 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. The fun continues after the lifts stop with live music, food and drink specials, raffles, and giveaways along with a torchlight parade, followed by a firework spectacular to ring in the New Year.
TOAST ON THE COAST
New Year’s Eve Celebrations in San Luis Obispo
Famous for its exquisite pink interior and kitschy atmosphere, Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo will host its All-Inclusive New Year’s Eve Celebration on Dec. 31. Join the fun with live music, dancing, party favors, the world-famous Madonna Inn Pink Champagne cake, and a midnight balloon drop. Then head to Marisol at The Cliffs in Pismo Beach for their Fire + Ice all-inclusive NYE-themed dinner and celebration featuring hot and cold sensations from passed appetizers through each course. The City of Paso Robles will also host its New Year’s Eve Concert and Bonfire on Dec. 31 from 7:00-11:00 p.m. Don’t miss this free family-friendly event, featuring music from JC Smith Band, Chicago Blues, The Dancing Fire dance troupe, and DJ Chad Fortin of Speakeasy Entertainment. Be sure to stick around for the ball drop at 9:00 p.m.
Big Night San Diego New Year’s Eve All-Inclusive Celebration
Big Night San Diego New Year’s Eve is returning to the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel for what is expected to be its biggest celebration yet. Conveniently located on the waterfront in downtown San Diego, right on the trolley line (no shuttles needed), guests can leave their wallets at home because an all-inclusive VIP ticket is the only thing needed to enjoy a night of drinks, food, and entertainment throughout the eight party zones. Attendees must be 21 and above to attend with proof of ID.
Hotel Del Coronado New Year’s Eve Masquerade Gala
Ring in the New Year at a Victorian-style Masquerade Gala in the Hotel Del Coronado’s new Southpointe Ballroom. The evening will include a live 9-piece band and DJ, an open bar, food stations, and Victorian-style masquerade performances. Before the midnight champagne toast, guests can enjoy fireworks from the hotel beach. This is a reservation-only prepaid event.
Lively New Year’s Eve Celebrations at Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach
Vespera Resort in Pismo Beach will ring in 2023 with two special dining experiences. The three-course New Year’s Eve celebratory menu at Pequín Coastal Cocina by Chef Frank Barajas is the restaurant’s first-ever New Year’s Eve dinner. Featuring Barajas’ creations, his Mexicali Chocolate Mousse topped with pop rocks will delight guests. New Year’s Eve bubbles and appetizers at the Pequín Bar will last from 9:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., a DJ will entertain guests including a midnight balloon drop. Reservations are required for each experience.
Ultimate New Year’s Oceanfront Celebration at Terranea Resort
Terranea Resort invites guests to ring in the New Year with its annual seaside traditions, featuring family celebrations, gourmet meals and more. At the Mystical Garden Family Dinner, families are transported into a beautiful botanical realm, featuring a three-course meal, champagne toast, and live entertainment. The Monte Carlo Casino Extravaganza offers an opulent adults-only celebration, including an open bar with optional VIP bottle service, a variety of food stations, a DJ, and dancing – all within the gorgeous Palos Verdes Grand Ballroom. Terranea’s award-winning culinary team also creates specialty menus and experiences in each of the resort’s restaurants to celebrate 2023 including mar’sel, Bashi, Nelson’s, Lobby Bar and Catalina kitchen.
EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS
Proper NYE Two-Day House Music Festival
FNGRS CRSSD’s PROPER NYE festival will bring over 20 of electronic music’s biggest names to San Diego’s Gallagher Square and Petco Park for a dual New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebration. The lineup is stacked with house music heavyweights, led by Grammy-nominated UK hitmaker and Black Book Records label boss Chris Lake, larger-than-life personality and Australian hitmaker FISHER, and floor-filling tech house sensation John Summit. The event will take place on New Year’s Eve from 3:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. and 2:00-11:00 p.m. on New Year’s Day.
Tournament of Roses in Pasadena
Pasadena’s Tournament of Roses is an iconic, all-American experience that attracts spectators from every corner of the world during New Year’s celebrations. Millions more tune in to watch the nationally televised New Year’s Day parade and college football game at the Rose Bowl Stadium. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Bandfest, a live music event featuring the bands selected to participate in the Rose Parade at Pasadena City College. On the days leading up to 2023, visitors can head to Decorating Places, where the upcoming parade entries are getting their finishing touches.
Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve at Gilroy Gardens
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park is one of the best places for families to ring in the New Year with a dance party. The park will be open on Dec. 31 from 4:00 p.m. to midnight featuring a Charlie Brown & Snoopy Dance Party, a photo booth, fireworks, and specialty food and drink.
