When it comes to fun things to see and do, California seems to have it all. Name your thrill, choose an interest, or pick an activity, and you can find it somewhere in the Golden State.

With this in mind, it’s no surprise so many folks love visiting California. While you’ve probably flown into LAX or SFO and ventured out into those cities, we suggest another option: embark on a California road trip. It’ll be an adventure you’ll never forget!

With that said, road trips require two things: plenty of time and a reliable motor vehicle. Assuming you’ve got both, the next step is to decide on your itinerary. Given the size of California and the enormous distances separating the major cities, we recommend the following route:

San Diego

When it comes to exploring California, America’s Finest City is often overlooked. Situated near the border with Mexico, San Diego has beautiful beaches, incredible restaurants, and an exciting nightlife scene. What’s more, some of the best California casinos are located near San Diego, giving visitors a chance to try their luck while having fun. Due to being at the southwestern corner of the state, San Diego serves as a great springboard for those planning a road trip across California. When you’ve decided it’s time to move on, simply pack up and head north. There’s plenty more to see and do!

Palm Springs

Another often-overlooked California treasure, Palm Springs is a flower blooming in the desert. Once a resort town for the Hollywood elite, Palm Springs has since become a standard resort town, with fun and relaxing things to do during your stay. Ride the Aerial Tramway for a breathtaking view of the desert below before arriving at the peak of San Jacinto. Go on a walking tour of the iconic modern architecture scattered throughout the city. Cap your visit off with a spa day. But get ready, because this trip is just getting started!

Anaheim

Located in Orange County, Anaheim is home to ‘The happiest place on Earth.’ You might know it by its official name – Disneyland. Whether you’re a child, teenager, parent, or grandparent, it’s never a bad time to stop in and say hi to Mickey, Minnie, and the rest of the gang. A visit to Disneyland is a step into a timeless realm where some of the most iconic amusement park rides ever designed are found. From Pirates of the Caribbean to the recently added Star Wars-themed section of the park, Disneyland has something for the child inside all of us. The bottom line is a trip to Southern California is not complete with a visit to Disneyland!

Los Angeles

An enormous city that also serves as the show business capital of the world, Los Angeles is on many people’s list of must-see places. While it would take a full month of exploring L.A. to soak up everything the region has to offer, a weekend stop leaves plenty of time to see the highlights. From the Griffith Observatory to the Walk of Fame to the world-famous Hollywood sign, visitors are sure to walk away feeling starstruck. But never fear, for it’s time to come back down to earth.

Sequoia National Forest

Giant sequoias – commonly referred to as redwood trees – are an awe-inspiring natural wonder only found in a limited stretch of land on the western side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Anyone who’s ever wanted to get up close to these amazing trees must make a point to visit Sequoia National Park.

Yosemite National Park

Travel a few hours north of Sequoia National Forest, and you’ll arrive in the most iconic national park in California. Yosemite has it all: breathtaking vistas, awe-inspiring trails, and some of the finest natural beauty the world has ever known.

San Francisco

There’s still plenty of California left to explore, but assuming you only have a week or so to wrap up your road trip, we insist on ending it in San Francisco. From Alcatraz to the Transamerica Pyramid, there’s plenty to see and do in the city by the bay.

Keep in mind that the above mentioned route can be done in reverse. Simply begin your journey in San Francisco and work your way south, rather than the other way around.