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CaliforniaRainy-day activities

Our most recommended California Rainy-day activities

Universal Studios Hollywood: Ticket with Easy Cancellation

1. Universal Studios Hollywood: Ticket with Easy Cancellation

Enjoy world-class entertainment all in one place at Universal Studios Hollywood™. Book a regular general admission ticket that will allow you will receive full access to the park to enjoy a day on all of the rides, shows, and attractions. For those wishing to spend less time in lines, the Universal Express Ticket is also available to book. This ticket includes the 1-day general admission ticket, one-time skip-the-line park entry, one-time express access to each ride and attraction plus priority seating at select shows.* This ticket is very popular with guests, so purchase this ticket in advance here to guarantee Universal Express™ privileges! Some of the popular rides, shows and attractions you will enjoy at Universal Studios Hollywood include: The World Famous Studio Tour Go behind the scenes on the world-famous Studio Tour to explore Hollywood's most famous backlot in the world's largest working movie studio. • Tour the world-famous Backlot with comedian/video host Jimmy Fallon and learn the secrets of Hollywood moviemaking.  • Visitors can experience the largest street movie set in Hollywood history built with creative consultation from Steven Spielberg himself.  • Guests can see the sets from the hit series and witness special effects used in blockbusters like The War of the Worlds. • Plus, you'll ride through the world's largest 3-D experience on King Kong 360 3-D created by Peter Jackson. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™ From magical spells to magical creatures, from dark villains to daring heroes, it's all here at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. Explore the mysteries of Hogwarts™ castle, visit the shops of Hogsmeade™ and sample fare from the wizarding world's best-known establishments. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem  Join Gru, his daughters, and the rebellious Minions on a heartwarming and thrilling 3-D ride. The journey starts in Gru’s home, where guests are recruited for his latest scheme – one where they’ll become actual Minions. *Does not apply to food and retail locations or non-seated shows. HARRY POTTER characters, names, and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s18). Jurassic Park TM & © 2018 Universal Studios and Amblin Entertainment, Inc. *Park, rides/shows/attractions, entertainment, experience details, and/or access to events may be restricted or unavailable due to capacity/closures/other factors, and benefits/restrictions are subject to change without notice. *Ticket is not valid at Universal Orlando Resort. The ticket is valid at Universal Studios Hollywood, located in Los Angeles, California.

Los Angeles: Universal Studios Hollywood Entry Ticket

2. Los Angeles: Universal Studios Hollywood Entry Ticket

Enjoy world-class entertainment with this Universal Studios Hollywood™ entrance ticket. Receive full access to the park to enjoy either one or two days of rides, shows, and attractions, depending on the option you prefer. To spend less time in lines, choose the Universal Express Ticket option and maximize your time in the park. Explore this fascinating park and, with your Universal Express Ticket, enjoy one-time skip-the-line park entry, one-time express access to each ride and attraction, plus priority seating at select shows. Some of the popular rides, shows and attractions you will access include: The World Famous Studio Tour Go behind the scenes on the world-famous Studio Tour to explore Hollywood's most famous backlot in the world's largest working movie studio. Tour the site with comedian and video host Jimmy Fallon, and learn the secrets of Hollywood moviemaking.  Experience the largest street movie set in Hollywood history, built with creative consultation from Steven Spielberg. See the sets from hit TV series and witness special effects used in blockbusters like The War of the Worlds. Ride through the world's largest 3D experience on King Kong 360 3D. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™ From magical spells to magical creatures, from dark villains to daring heroes, it's all here at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Explore the mysteries of Hogwarts castle, visit the shops of Hogsmeade, and sample fare from the wizarding world's best-known establishments. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem  Join Gru, his daughters, and the rebellious Minions on a heartwarming and thrilling 3D ride. Start your journey in Gru’s home, where you'll be recruited for his latest scheme, where you'll become an actual Minion.

San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

3. San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

You will explore INSIDE the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on Alcatraz Island with America’s most ruthless criminals, including Al Capone. The ferry will leave on time at the specific time you booked. You have to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time at Pier 33. Walk, bike, take public transportation, or drive (as a last resort as it can be challenging to find parking), with easy access from anywhere around the Bay! On the island follow the Cellhouse audio tour “Doing Time” 45 minutes available in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. Also included is an amazing 1 hour SF Bay Cruise. Sail past the famous PIER 39 sea lions and along San Francisco’s historic waterfront, revealing the city’s fascinating skyline.You have the flexibility to go on your cruise on any day at any available departure. You will receive the schedule. Those are 2 separates tours.

Los Angeles: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

4. Los Angeles: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Get ready to touch, tour, and explore the 110-acre backlot that brought the films Argo and Batman to the big screen with this guided tour of Warner Bros. Studio. From the film Gravity to the TV show Friends, go behind the camera for a revealing look at your favorite cinematic creations. Explore Stage 48: Script to Screen, an interactive soundstage that explores phases of the film and television production process. Re-enact a scene from Friends on the iconic Central Perk set, or climb aboard Harry Potter’s broomstick for a photo opportunity. Explore the Studio Store with exclusive merch from your favorite films and TV shows. Dine at the Central Perk Cafe and enjoy your meal amongst recreated sets like Monica's apartment, and Joey and Chandler's pad. Recreate scenes from the DC Universe where you can explore superheroes and supervillains.  Swish and flick your way through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts and even have your own Hogwarts house sorting ceremony. Between December 22 - January 1, 2023, you’ll also be able to explore a special stop at the Midwest Street Backlot, known by Gilmore Girls fans as the set location for Stars Hollow. 

San Diego: USS Midway Museum Entry Ticket

5. San Diego: USS Midway Museum Entry Ticket

Take a self-guided audio tour onboard the world’s longest-serving aircraft carrier, the historic USS Midway. See the carrier’s 25 restored aircraft from the days of WWII to Operation Desert Storm. Visit areas throughout the Midway, from the crew's sleeping quarters to the pilots' ready rooms. Docents are available throughout the carrier and are eager to share their stories, anecdotes, and statistics, creating a picture of just how important the USS Midway was to the U.S. Navy. Most guests spend 3 to 4 hours exploring this historic aircraft carrier and learning its history. The included audio guide, available in 6 languages, will help you explore the dozens of highlighted areas across the massive ship.  There are family-oriented activities throughout the Museum. Included are 3 types of flight simulators, music videos, short films, climb-aboard aircraft and cockpits, and more. The Museum is located at the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego.

San Francisco: Alcatraz Ticket with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

6. San Francisco: Alcatraz Ticket with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

See the best of San Francisco with this combined hop-on-hop-off ticket and Alcatraz Island visit. Explore the island of Alcatraz and enjoy 2 days of sightseeing with insightful and historic commentary. Tour the famous prison that has played a role in jailhouse folklore and the historic evolution of the West Coast. Learn more about the 14 unsuccessful escape attempts by over 30 prisoners and their fates on the included audio tour. Your 2 Day Big Bus hop-on-hop-off pass is a great way to see the sights of San Francisco. Enjoy Big Bus' professional and engaging digital audio commentary in 10 languages. Your 2-day ticket includes 2 full days of unlimited hop-on-hop-off. Explore one of San Francisco's most fascinating neighborhoods on a fun and informative walking tour of Chinatown. The tours are offered daily, and you can ask an agent for locations and time schedules. Also included is your choice of a half day bike rental or general admission to the USS Pampanito WWII submarine. Top Sights along the tour include: - North Beach - Chinatown - Embarcadero Center - Fisherman’s Wharf - Ferry Building - Union Square - Redemption Center - Civic Center - Alamo Square - Haight Ashbury - Golden Gate Bridge - Golden Gate Park - Palace of Fine Arts - Marina - Lombard Street - Pier 35 - Pier 39

LA: Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour

7. LA: Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour

Go behind the scenes at a real working movie studio with a 1-day entrance ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood. Enjoy VIP treatment as you explore by a special trolley and disembark at areas not open to the general public. Visit real sound stages where blockbuster movies and TV shows are filmed, and get a sneak peek at the enormous props warehouse. Avail of unlimited Universal Express access to all participating rides and priority seating for select shows and get access to the VIP lounge to enjoy a light breakfast or gourmet lunch. Rides and Attractions: Fast & Furious - Supercharged: Hold on tight for the all-new Fast & Furious – Supercharged ride that exceeds speeds of 120 miles per hour and catapults you into a high-stakes underworld of fast cars and international crime cartels. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Get the chance to become one of the mischievous Minions on a hilarious 3D ride. Transformers: The Ride Brave an epic ride that fuses HD 3D media and flight simulation technology to put you in the middle of the ultimate war zone. Studio Tour Go behind the scenes and explore Hollywood’s most famous back lot at the world’s largest working movie studio. King Kong 360 3D Test your survival instincts and prepare to be caught in the middle of a terrifying struggle between a 35-foot T-Rex and King Kong. Springfield Grab a Homer-sized helping of donuts at Lard Lad, imbibe at Moe’s Tavern or the first Duff Brewery Beer Garden, and crash through Krustyland on The Simpsons Ride. Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride Face the heart-pounding special effects and unexpected twists as you escape the Mummy’s revenge in life-like horror at speeds up to 45 mph in virtual darkness. WaterWorld Experience a tidal wave of explosive action at WaterWorld. Join an adventure that surges to life with jumping jet skiers, perilous plunges, firefights, massive explosions, and an in-your-face plane crash. Super Nintendo World™ Enter the world of Super Mario™. Battle Team Bowser on the groundbreaking Mario Kart™ ride. Play interactive games throughout the land and track your score with a Power-Up Band™. Dine at Toadstool Cafe™, meet Mario and friends, and grab exclusive merch at the 1-UP Factory™ store. Universal CityWalk Kick back with all the great food and live music entertainment of Universal CityWalk. Get some retail therapy with over 30 shops to browse.

Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise

8. Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise

Step aboard the vintage Golden Rose, a 1953 Chris Craft Venetian Water Taxi, with Lake Tahoe's premier wine tasting tour company, operating out of South Lake Tahoe, California. Sit back, relax, and take in the beauty of the lake while sipping on exquisite wines hand chosen for your enjoyment on Lake Tahoe's only wine boat tour of the lake on this one-of-a-kind sunset cruise. Enjoy the beauty of Lake Tahoe during a small group tour, while tasting Northern California's great wines, or customize your own booking to celebrate that special moment in your life. Operating May - October with up to 4 cruises a day and 7 days a week during our busy season. Tours will be aboard the beautiful "Golden Rose," a one-of-a-kind 1953 Chris Craft Venetian Water Taxi and will begin at the Tahoe Keys Marina in South Lake Tahoe, California circling Emerald Bay, cruising around Fannette Island and viewing the historic Vikingsholm castle all from the boat. Throughout the tour, sampl3 8 wines from various wine regions, heavily focused on Northern California wines. You'll have the opportunity to purchase bottles of your favorite wines at the end of the tour to enjoy during the rest of their stay in Lake Tahoe or to take home to add to your collection. If you're not looking for a full bottle, wine by the glass is also offered. Water and soda are also available and complimentary to all guests. If someone in your party prefers beer, this can be accommodated if requested in advance. Charcuterie platters in various sizes are also available to enjoy onboard. These can be added to any wine cruise booking, pre-ordered in advance with a 48-hour notice and delivered right to the boat. The charcuterie board includes cheese, salami, fresh and dried fruit, crackers etc. Special catering menus are available for private charters. As always, you're still welcome to bring your own snacks on the boat, if you prefer.

Palm Springs: Drag Show with Brunch

9. Palm Springs: Drag Show with Brunch

The Saguaro Hotel presents PS Drag Brunch, the winner of 2022 Best Drag Brunch Award. You'll enjoy a lavish 3-course menu, served at a private table and accompanied by Bottomless Mimosas, Unlimited Champagne, and never-ending soft drinks. While you dine, be entertained by one of the best drag experiences available anywhere. You'll see the top drag talent in California and beyond, a cast featuring Emmy Winners, nationally touring drag artists, and local celebrities. The show wows guests with the costumes, the dancing, the perfect makeup, and the precise lip-sync. Audiences are left alternatively gasping at the shade these queens can throw, or cheering the spectacle unfolding right beside their table. With 5 stars on every review website, PS Drag Brunch is always at the top of everyone's list of things they "must do" in Palm Springs. And with good reason: nearly half guest testimonials use the word "amazing" to describe their experience. And even the most seasoned lovers of drag culture describe this as the "best drag show they've ever seen". Come and enjoy the most remarkable experience in Palm Springs. And leave with "that" photo, the one where you're posting with our cast, that will define your entire trip to magical Palm Springs.

Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Wine-Tasting Boat Tour

10. Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Wine-Tasting Boat Tour

Step aboard the vintage Golden Rose, a 1953 Chris Craft Venetian Water Taxi, with Lake Tahoe's premier wine tasting tour company, operating out of South Lake Tahoe, California. Sit back, relax and take in the beauty of the lake while sipping on exquisite wines hand chosen for your enjoyment on Lake Tahoe's only wine boat tour of the lake. Enjoy the beauty of Lake Tahoe during one of our 2-hour, small group, semi-private tours, while tasting Northern California's great wines, or customize your own booking to celebrate that special moment in your life! Operating May - October with up to 4 cruises a day and 7 days a week during our busy season. Tours will be aboard the beautiful "Golden Rose," a one-of-a-kind 1953 Chris Craft Venetian Water Taxi and will begin at the Tahoe Keys Marina in South Lake Tahoe, California circling Emerald Bay, cruising around Fannette Island and viewing the historic Vikingsholm castle all from the boat. Throughout the tour, we will be sampling 8 wines from various wine regions, heavily focused on Northern California wines. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase bottles of their favorite wines at the end of the tour to enjoy during the rest of their stay in Lake Tahoe or to take home to add to their collection. If you're not looking for a full bottle, we also offer wine by the glass as well. Water and soda are also available and complimentary to all of our guests. If someone in your party prefers beer, we can accommodate your guest if requested in advance. Please contact us for any special requests. FOOD OPTIONS: Stop by the Pirate's Chest Tahoe located at the Tahoe Keys Marina for grab-and-go items like sandwiches, cheese, dips, chips, salami, pasta salads and pre-made charcuterie to take with you on your wine tasting cruise! You'll find vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options as well. Just look for the life-size pirates and flags outside the store. As always, you're still welcome to bring your own snacks on the boat, if you prefer.

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What people are saying about California

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 133 reviews

Easy to navigate. The big bus stop made collection super simple. The audio tour at Alcatraz is really well put together, booking in advance is a must. Recommend packing extra layers for the night tour if you plan to sit on top of the bus, the wind chill is next level. Overall a great experience - highly recommend.

Really well organised tour. Audio tour is free and very good. Must have it to appreciate the history of the ship. Indeed and in general there is lots of information available about the role of the ship. The staff are extremely attentive. Allow 3 hours minimum. Restaurant in the hanger is ok.

Paul did a great job! He was knowledgeable and took his time with the tour. Thank you!

Very cool experience, with lots to see. I would do it again - to see what I missed!!

It’s amazing and the docents are informative, terrific people.