Things to do in Central California
Activities, attractions and tours
Visit Central California
Explore activitiesExplore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
Book with easeSkip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
Treat yourselfMembers save % or more when you book activities.
Most popular experiences in Central California
Tours & day trips
See all 252 activities
San Francisco: One day Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Tour
Private & custom tours
See all 98 activities
Silicon Valley Private 2-Hour Driving Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 51 activities
San Jose: "The Escape Game" Ticket at Valley Fair
Classes & workshops
See all 21 activities
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Holiday & seasonal tours
See all 6 activitiesMonterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
What to do in Central California
Popular places to visit
Yosemite Valley
From Yosemite Falls to Half Dome and El Capitan, you can see some of the most stunning scenery in the world from Yosemite National Park’s central valley.
Yosemite National Park
The hiking trails, waterfalls and mountains full of diverse wildlife make this national park one of the country’s most picturesque.
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
When it comes to California skiing, Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort is the mammoth of all ski resorts on the West Coast. Boasting the highest summit of any other CA ski resort, along with an average of 400 inches of snowfall each season, Mammoth ski resort in Mammoth Lakes is a snow mecca for both skiers and riders.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Mammoth Mountain
When the temperatures start to drop, head to Mammoth Lakes in California to make the most of its exciting ski season.
Santana Row Shopping Center
During your trip to San Jose, you can enjoy retail therapy at Santana Row Shopping Center. Attend a sporting event or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.
Hearst Castle
You can learn about the history of San Simeon when you stop by Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the thrill rides with your kiddos at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk as part of your trip to Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area, or seek out the biking trails.
Winchester Mystery House
Wonder about the alleged hauntings and other mysteries as you chart the life of a gun magnate’s widow in this unfinished manor.
Areas of Central California
Downtown San Jose
Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like San Pedro Square and San Jose Museum of Art, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.
Yosemite West
You'll enjoy the waterfalls and riverfront in Yosemite West. You might want to make time for a stop at Yosemite National Park or Sierra National Forest.
Mammoth Village
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Mammoth Village and surrounding area, you can visit Village Gondola Station and Sierra Star Golf Course.
Downtown Monterey
The beaches and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue might round out your trip.
Westside Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Monterey Bay and Pacific Avenue, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Cruz.
Old Mammoth
While Old Mammoth might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Eagle Express Ski Lift and Sierra Star Golf Course.
