FamilyFun, San Jose

Spend an unforgettable day at California's Great America, where roller coasters, live shows, concerts, fireworks, and a water park await. It's an amusement paradise where thrills cater to every age, promising to rock your world and leave you wonderfully exhausted. Each year, new rides and attractions make their debut, and special events like the spine-tingling Halloween Haunt draw in tens of thousands of eager visitors. Slip on your comfiest walking shoes and get ready to scream your heart out; there's a whirlwind of excitement to explore! Nestled in the heart of Santa Clara, this amusement park isn't just about rides and shows. You'll find a delightful array of classic amusement park snacks, from cotton candy to churros, adding a tasty touch to your adventure. If you're visiting during the summer, the Boomerang Bay water park offers a refreshing escape with its wave pools and lazy rivers. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just looking to enjoy a fun day out, California's Great America delivers an experience you won't soon forget.

Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, Raging Waters Los Angeles is the ultimate destination for endless summer fun! As the largest water park in California, it offers an abundance of rides and slides that cater to the entire family. Imagine standing at the top of a towering slide, the sun warming your back, and the anticipation building as you prepare to plunge into the cool waters below. It's an adrenaline rush like no other. Beyond the thrilling rides, the park is home to a lazy river where you can float away the afternoon, allowing the gentle current to take your cares with it. And for those who crave a little competition, the wave pool is the perfect spot to test your surfing skills. The park is not just about rides; it's a place where unforgettable memories are made under the Californian sun.

Nestled within Kelley Park in San Jose, Happy Hollow Park and Zoo has been a beloved destination for family fun, education, and adventure since 1961. This delightful spot offers a haven for children, particularly those aged 2 to 10, where they can explore, learn, and play in a safe and imaginative environment. From whimsical play areas to enchanting puppet shows, the park is a wonderland for little ones. Daily animal meet-and-greets provide an up-close encounter with wildlife, sparking curiosity and wonder. Kids can leap and play like lemurs on the playground, get hands-on with friendly goats through brushing and feeding, or explore the fascinating Doc’s Critter Care building and the Ranch House. At Double-H Ranch, discover a captivating mix of animal exhibits featuring giant anteaters, red ruffed lemurs, and a variety of gentle farm animals like chickens that are perfect for petting. The park's charm extends beyond its attractions. Its lush greenery and well-maintained trails offer a serene backdrop for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. Plus, the special events and birthday areas make it an ideal spot for celebrating milestones with a sprinkle of outdoor magic. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is a must-visit for creating unforgettable family memories.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium, established in 1984, is a fascinating spot located on the historic Cannery Row, where a sardine cannery once stood. This place is like a marine wonderland, home to thousands of plants and animals from over 600 species. Imagine strolling through its halls, where you can see stingrays gliding gracefully, jellyfish floating like living art, playful sea otters, and quirky sea horses. It's a real treat for anyone curious about marine life. One thing that sets the Monterey Bay Aquarium apart is its rare exhibits of both bluefin and yellowfin tuna. Plus, it's among the few aquariums worldwide that have successfully cared for the ocean sunfish, a remarkable achievement. The aquarium's crown jewel is the Open Sea exhibit, which holds a staggering 1,200,000 gallons of water. Here, you'll find one of the largest single-paned windows on the planet, offering an uninterrupted view of the mesmerizing underwater world. Since its opening, the aquarium has welcomed over 47 million visitors, winning accolades for its innovative exhibits, stunning architecture, and significant cultural and educational contributions. Beyond its exhibits, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is deeply committed to ocean conservation, providing valuable research and education to protect marine ecosystems. A visit to this aquarium isn't just about observing sea creatures; it's an opportunity to connect with the ocean in a meaningful way. You might even find yourself inspired to learn more about the efforts to preserve the incredible biodiversity that calls our oceans home.

Mount Hermon Adventures has truly blossomed since its inception, gaining international acclaim for its thrilling adventure experiences and team development programs. Today, they proudly operate the renowned Redwood Canopy Tours, along with several aerial adventure courses that promise to get your adrenaline pumping. Their intentional team-building programs are tailored to foster strong connections and personal growth. For those staying overnight, there's a smorgasbord of activities to dive into: mountain biking, surfing, sea kayaking, target sports, and even paintball. If you're into skating, the skate park awaits your tricks and flips. And when the sun's blazing, their aquatic facilities offer a refreshing escape. What's truly special about Mount Hermon is how they weave their core values into every aspect of their offerings: quality, authenticity, and inspiration. The ultimate aim? To leave every guest feeling transformed and invigorated by their experiences. Nestled in the enchanting landscape of the Santa Cruz Mountains, this destination is not just about thrill-seeking; it's about connecting with nature and oneself. The towering redwoods provide a majestic backdrop, inviting you to explore and reflect. Whether you're zip-lining through the treetops or paddling through the surf, Mount Hermon promises an unforgettable journey that speaks to the heart and soul.

Journey over trestles and through majestic redwood groves as you ascend the winding narrow-gauge track to the summit of Bear Mountain. The conductors, with their rich storytelling, bring the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad, and the surrounding forest to life. Back in the 1880s, these narrow-gauge steam locomotives were the workhorses that hauled massive redwood logs from the mountains. Today, Roaring Camp's steam engines, dating back to 1890, are among the oldest and most authentically preserved in America that still offer regular passenger service. This remarkable experience isn't just a train ride; it's a journey back in time. As the whistle echoes through the towering trees, you can almost imagine the bustling logging days of the past. The surrounding area is also home to some of the tallest trees in the world, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts to explore. Whether you're a history buff or simply in search of a unique outing, Roaring Camp promises an unforgettable adventure.

In 2010, Good Morning America spotlighted a truly intriguing piece of Californian history: the enigmatic Winchester Mystery House. This architectural wonder is the brainchild of Sarah Winchester, the troubled heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune. Haunted by the spirits of those slain by the "Gun that Won the West," Sarah consulted a medium who advised her to continuously build onto her home to appease these restless souls. She poured her $20 million inheritance into this never-ending construction project for decades. The result? A sprawling mansion filled with peculiarities and charm. The house itself is an awe-inspiring sight, with its intricate woodwork and mesmerizing stained glass. But don't overlook the gardens and grounds, which are just as enchanting. Is it spooky? Absolutely. Yet, there's an undeniable beauty to it all. For an extra thrill, try a flashlight tour on Friday the 13th or in October. It's a delightful mix of trick and treat, perfect for those who love a good scare. And if you visit during December, you'll find the Victorian spirit shining brightly, adding a special glow to the holiday season. Beyond its haunted reputation, the Winchester Mystery House offers intriguing insights into Victorian architecture and the eccentric life of Sarah Winchester herself. The mansion boasts over 160 rooms, secret passageways, and staircases that lead nowhere, making it a labyrinthine journey of discovery. It's a place where history and mystery intertwine, creating an unforgettable experience for every visitor.