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4 Reasons Why You Should Visit the California Redwoods

4 Reasons Why You Should Visit the California Redwoods-CA LIMITED

If you're a fan of being outdoors or love nature and you haven't taken the time to visit the California Redwoods, then this needs to be your next vacation destination. You will not only find some of the tallest trees on Earth, but a beautiful mix of prairie land,  rocky coastlines, and an abundance of wildlife. There are beautiful rivers and swimming areas as well as fantastic hiking and biking trails lined with lush greens all resting in the shade of the magnificent California Redwoods.

If these descriptions haven't already convinced you to plan your next vacation to Northern California, then maybe these 4 reasons why you should visit the California Redwoods will.

4 Reasons You Should Visit the California Redwoods

California Redwoods Humbolt State Park Flickr-renedrivers

1) The beauty of it all

As Sylvia Plath said in The Bell Jar
“I felt my lungs inflate with the onrush of scenery—air, mountains, trees, people. I thought, "This is what it is to be happy.”
You will have this same experience the minute you step from your car and enter into the beauty of the California Redwoods. The smell of the forest is unlike anything you've experienced before - fresh, clean, cool. The best case to make for visiting the California Redwoods is the fact that you will be able to enjoy the beauty of nature without the distractions of every day life.

2) Perfect for camping and hiking

Campfire

Flickr-Steven Fong Whether you like to rough it or prefer an RV, you can find something to suit you in the various state campgrounds located in the heart of the California Redwoods. The Redwood National State Park is located in Humboldt County in Northern California, close to the coast line. It stretches from Trinidad all the way to (and past) the California/Oregon boarder.   California Redwoods National Park World For Travel

There are four main camp grounds to choose from:

Jedediah Smith: This is a beautiful campground located near the banks of the Smith River in the midst of old-growth redwoods. Campground actives include swimming, hiking trails, fishing, and seasonal programs hosted by the campground staff. This campground is open all year and does fill up very quickly for the summer. If you're thinking of vacationing there you should plan to call with plenty of advanced notice. Mill Creek: Located 7 miles south of Crescent City, Mill Creek offers a range of programs led by camp rangers and miles of trails to hike! There is a mix of redwoods as well as maple and alder trees that add diversity to the natural surroundings. This camp is only open from May to September so plan accordingly! Elk Prairie: Another great, year-round option especially for those of  you who are bike enthusiasts. There are over 70 miles of biking and hiking trails surrounding this camp ground. Gold Bluffs Beach: Part of the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Gold Bluffs Beach is just that - a campground near the beach with the benefits of towering redwoods, gorgeous coastline, and a variety of hiking and biking trails. There are no reservations here so it's first-come, first-serve.

3) You could drive through a tree

California Redwoods Drive Through Chandelier Tree Flickr-David Dugan Yes, you read that right. Only in the beautiful California Redwoods could you actually drive through a tree! Dating back to the 1930s a hole was cut through this tree (picture above) to allow cars to drive through. Today, guests can visit the park where the tree is located and drive through for $5. A small price to pay for bragging rights and a snapshot or two to prove you, in fact, drove through a tree!

4) Less expensive than staying in a hotel

Let's face it. Everyone is on a tight budget these days, which means vacations are becoming harder to plan and execute. When you visit the California Redwoods you won't need to break the bank. Average cost for camping is $35 per vehicle ($8 for an additional vehicle) or $5 per hiker or biker per night. What a steal! The listed campgrounds (above) all offer RV and tent sites in addition to the hiker/biker campsites so you can pick your level of 'roughing it'. California Redwoods National Park HDWrappers-Ricky These reasons are just the tip of the ice berg when it comes to all that the California Redwoods have to offer. A trip to these beautiful forests crowded with towering trees and lush underbrush will remind you of the sheer beauty of nature. Paired with crystal clear rivers and an abundance of wildlife, you'll never want to leave. California Redwoods National Park World For Travel

 

 Source: National Park Servic Cover photo from Deviant Art by nmsmith

14 Outrageous California Meals You Won't Believe Exist

When you were a kid you were probably forced to eat something you didn't like. Your parents probably never told you that when you grow up, you may just find yourself eating something crazy on purpose. We've found 14 outrageous meals that you won't believe actually exist. Yes, people decide to eat these things--and they like them!

14 Outrageous California Meals

1. Doughnut Burger - San Francisco

You may love hamburgers and you may love doughnuts, but would you love them together? Straw in San Francisco offers The Ringmaster - a cheese burger stuck between two glazed doughnuts (source). It's an interesting take on salty and sweet, but have they gone too far?

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Flickr by Robyn Lee

2. Deep-Fried Piglet - Los Angeles

Well, you may have enjoyed Whinny the Pooh, but what about eating Piglet too? According to Andrew Zimmern, Fords Filling Station in L.A. offers deep-fried piglet. You can also order the

whole pig if you're looking for more. Apparently, they are big on pigs here...

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Flickr by Larry

3. Whipper Burger - Los Angeles

According to the Hawkins Burgers menu, the Whipper Burger comes complete with two hamburger patties, pastrami, and a hot-link. There's also the option for cheese, and at that point, you

might as well.

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From Hawkins Burgers

4. Slater's 50/50 - Southern California

Now, a burger isn't outrageous in and of itself, but include 50% bacon with 50% ground beef to create the 50/50 burger at Slater's 50/50 and you've got yourself something pretty amazing. But it doesn't stop there. They also offer a peanut butter and jelly hamburger, Fritos added to a burger, and a 'bacon everything' burger. We'll recommend the whole Slater's experience as outrageous!

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Flickr by Drew Hubbard, Ben Waters

5. 12 Egg Omelet - Antioch

You'd better like eggs if you're brave enough to try this omelet at Lumpy's Diner. We're talking 12 eggs that combine to make an omelet the size of a football!

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Flickr by nathanmac87

6. Chicken and Waffles - Southern California

Roscoe's is famous for their chicken and waffles. Yes, it's a "strange" combination and definitely rates on our outrageous California meals list, but it's surprisingly tasty. Once you try it, we're pretty sure you'll like it! 3412988631_c18a592903_b

Flickr by James Bilbrey

7. Hubcap Challenge- Roseville

When you think of pancakes, you think a nice, manageable sized pancake with some syrup. At Jim-Denny's, pancakes aren't quite so 'manageable'. They offer the Hubcap Challenge - a huge pancake the size of a hubcap. Adding "spokes" means adding bacon or sausage on top. This outrageously large pancake offers up quite the challenge. Could you beat it? thumb_600

From Foodspotting

8. BurritoZilla - San Jose

Iguana's Burritozilla offers one of the most outrageous California meals with their five pound, 18-inch burrito titled "BurritoZilla". It is the mother of all burritos and takes several tortillas just to make it. Would you be up for the challenge of conquering this giant burrito?

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From Iguana's Burritozilla's Facebook Page

9. Toffee Meal Worms - San Francisco

You may have eaten bugs as a kid accidentally...but now, it's "okay" to eat them as a grown up. That is, if you are willing to get past the fact that you're eating bugs. Don Bugito's has all of your bug taste buds covered. They are an "edible insect street food project" advertizing edible insects as a way to introduce high-protein foods (like bugs) as an answer for the shortage of these types of food. Check out their Etsy shop

for products like Chocolate Covered Salted Crickets, Chile-Lime Crickets, and their most popular Toffee Mealworms.

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From Says.com

10. Chicken Liver Toast - Los Angeles

The first item on the Animal restaurant menu is Chicken Liver Toast. According to Yelpers, it's a good option on the menu and priced very reasonably. They also offer a host of other fun and different options just right for a discerning foodie. Would you pick the Chicken Liver Toast? chicken-liver

From Darin Dines

11. "Kryptonite" Sandwich - San Francisco

At Ike's Place you can test your superhero capabilities to see if you can withstand the Kryptonite Sandwhich! With these ingredients: "

Avocado, Bacon, Beer Battered Onion Rings, EXTRA Pepper Jack, Ham, Mozzarella Sticks, Pastrami, Pesto, Roast Beef, Salami, Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers, Turkey" (source) and weighing almost 4 pounds, you may have met your match with this sandwhich. It definitely qualifies for our outrageous California meals list!

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From Tumbler

12. Ring of Fire Hot Sauce - San Pedro

So...this isn't a meal, but it's pretty outrageous. The 710Grille's Ring of Fire Hot Sauce on their chicken wings is just as painful as it is tasty. Yelpers say to have a drink ready because your mouth will feel like it's on fire after eating these babies!
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From Sure Beats Work

13. Dinosaur Sized Ribs - San Diego

As one of the top 10 restaurants in San Diego, Phil's BBQ has a lot to offer, including Dinosaur Sized Ribs covered in Phil's own secret BBQ sauce. You will not walk away hungry, but that assuming you're even up for the challenge! phils-1000

From SanDiegoVille

14. Surfin' California Burrito - San Diego

You haven't seen outrageous until you've seen Lucha Libre Taco Shop's Surfin' California Burrito. With these ingredients: "Grilled Steak, Shrimp, Fresh French Fries, Avocado, Pico De Gallo, Cheese, & Super Secret Chipotle Sauce" (source) you will be amazed and slightly overwhelmed (I know I was when I visited!). French Fries, you may say. Yes. 100% yes. This amazing burrito isn't for the faint of heart, but the taste is outrageously good and definitely needs to be on this list!

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From The Wanderers

We know we didn't catch them all. What outrageous meal do you enjoy?

  Sources: TV Food Maps Cover Photo from Flickr by Bob B. Brown

Grab a seat! 4th of July Firework Viewing Hot Spots

Put on some red, white, and blue and head out to see the fireworks! We've compiled a list of some of the best spots to view fireworks in California. We know cities all over California will be showing off their best and brightest fireworks. Hopefully we've included a city near you!

California Firework Viewing Hot Spots

Mt. Shasta

See some of the best fireworks in Northern California from the Mt. Shasta Resort (a $2 fee) or sit on the beach at the Lake Siskiyou Campground.

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From mtshastafireworks.com

Eureka

Directed over Arcata Bay, the best place to view these fireworks is from the Eureka boardwalk area.

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Flickr by Christian Arballo

Redding

View the fireworks show from Caldwell Park.

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Flickr by Joey Gannon

Sacramento

A great show at the CalExpo Miller Lite Grandstand (Fairgrounds). Admission is free though parking is $10.

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Flickr by four years

South Lake Tahoe

These fireworks can be viewed (for free) from a spot on the beach overlooking the lake (suggested that you can park and walk to the beach).

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Flickr by simplistic.designs

Vallejo

Spend some time at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and see some amazing fireworks.

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Flickr by Socalmacker

San Francisco

There are many firework shows in San Francisco, but some of the best places mentioned for firework viewing are:

  • Pier 39 in (watch from Embarcadero or Fort Mason)
  • Indian Rock
  • Marine Headlands
  • For Miley
  • Sausalito's show (just north of the Golden Gate Bridge on Richardson Bay)
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Flickr by David Yu

Santa Cruz

Apparently, Santa Cruz puts on quite the explosive Firework show with illegal fireworks!

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Flickr by simon sun

Santa Barbara

Set off from West Beach, these fireworks last almost 20 minutes and are said to be an amazing show.

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Flickr by Angela Sevin

Pismo Beach

View from Oceano Dunes and come prepared to camp for the best spot available.

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Flickr by Chris Hearn  

Clovis

Join the Freedom Fest and see fireworks from the Buchanan High School in Clovis ($5 fee).

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From E.A. Creative Photography

Los Angeles

Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Spectacular with Steve Marin and The Steep Canyon Rangers. A night you won't soon forget. Grand Park at the LA Civic Center offers the biggest rooftop firework show in LA.

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Flickr by iwishmynamewasmarsha

Santa Monica

Come to the Santa Monica College Corsair Field on the Westside and enjoy exhibits and entertainment with amazing fireworks to end your night with a BANG!

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Flickr by iwishmynamewasmarsha

Marina del Rey

Set off from a barge in the bay, these fireworks over the water are a beautiful sight.

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Flickr by simplistic.designs Pasadena Americafest at the Rose Bowl - fireworks begin at 9pm.

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Flickr by Socalmacker

Redondo Beach

Seen from Redondo Beach Pier, the fireworks are complete with themed music. 4790978557_8559380aa6_b

Flickr by iwishmynamewasmarsha

Long Beach

Hop aboard the Queen Mary for an All-American 4th of July display you won't forget ($39.99 admission).

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Flickr by Chris Parker

San Diego

The beautiful city of San Diego boasts many locations to view fireworks:
  • Marina District
  • North Embarcadero
  • Shelter Island
  • Harbor Island
  • Seaport Village/South Embarcadero
  • Coronado Ferry Landing
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Flickr by Nathan Rupert

Where's your hot spot for firework viewing in California?

  Cover photo from Flickr by Jeff Turner Source: Travel Tips, About.com, USA Today, AMP Radio

Secret Bars in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego

We're letting the secret out. Check out these awesome secret and hidden bars in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Impress your date with you insider knowledge of these amazing bars and quickly become the life of the party!

Secret Bars in San Francisco

Burbon & Branch

Enter here to take a step back into the 1920's. Make sure you take a gander at their House Rules (some of which include speaking "easy", no use of cell phones, and no standing at the bar). If you can find your way around these, make Burbon & Branch your next late night diversion. 3812902855_45e067fa2d_o Flickr by Sarai Mitnick Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency The website for the Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency (the speakeasy within Burbon & Branch) is pretty amazing (trust us, it's worth a visit).  Their fun and slightly encrypted case file-style webpage makes it clear that appointments are needed, along with the proper password, if you want to take part in "solving the case" or maybe buying a drink or two. 3813715736_389c043052_o Flickr by Sarai Mitnick Russells Room @ Burbon & Branch Enter through a bookshelf to this additional room in Burbon & Branch. Again, a password is required. 2204374404_c0e1ba2f46_b Flickr by Luigi Anzivino

Smugglers Cove

Boasting "traditional drinks of the Caribbean Island" and so much more, this pirates paradise offers over 70 cocktails and has an atmosphere to put even the most discerning pirate fanatic at ease. It may not be secret, but the entrance to this three-level bar is hidden in plain sight without much to draw attention to it. Keep a weather eye out, matey. 5561958695_194ab57d06_b Flickr by stephanie vacher

The Hideout at Dalva

Hip. Trendy. Hidden. The Hideout at Dalva is another bar within a bar. Tucked away in the back of the Dalva, The Hideout has everything you'll want in a secret, hidden bar. Their Facebook page won't give you much helpful information, but this article at Party Earth will. 574902_430469293664674_2064696317_n From The Hideout (at Dalva) Facebook Page

Secret Bars in Los Angeles

The Varnish

Located at the back of Cole's, The Varnish has a speakeasy style to suit the most discerning tastes. It's a must visit when looking to experience secret bars. l-1 From Yelp by Christine A.

Blind Barber

Need a haircut...and a drink? The Blind Barber is for you. You reach this fun, vintage bar through the back door of the functioning barbershop and will experience an intimate speakeasy atmosphere. l-7 From Yelp

Good Times at Davey Wayne's

By far the most bizarre way to enter a bar--ever--you get to Good Times at Davey Wayne's by entered through a garage and, get this, a refrigerator door entrance. This 70's themed bar boasts comfy seating like outdoor couches and hammocks in addition to playing vintage 70's music. It's fun and a great secret bar in Hollywood! l-6 From Yelp by Alice L.

The Writer's Room

You don't have to be the future Hemingway to enjoy this 1930's inspired speakeasy located behind Musso & Frank, but you do have to be on "the list" (though it seems you may be able to make it in on flattery alone...?). l-4 From Yelp by Michael S.

Secret Bars in San Diego

Nobel Experiment

Even their website is secretive and leaves you wondering what you're in for with a visit to Nobel Experiment. All we can tell you is that it's recommended you make a reservation. Thrillist divulges that you send in a text to obtain a reservation and show up during a 15 minute window to enter through what looks like a wall of kegs in order to enjoy some of the best drinks in San Diego! l From Yelp by Kent D.

Gaslamp Speakeasy

As long as you remember these simple rules,"No Religion. No Politics." you'll be good-to-go at the Gaslamp Sepakeasy. They also require a few other rules to be followed, but nothing that will keep you from having a good time. Come enjoy drinks and live music at this hidden gem. l-3 From Yelp by Ingrid I

Prohibition

If you've found a door advertizing, "Law Offices of Eddie O’Hare, Esq." you've come to the right place. You'll need to agree to house rules and then, depending on availability, you'll enter into this popular San Diego speakeasy. It's first come first serve and a dress code is enforced, but completely worth it to enjoy live music, amazing drinks, and a truly fantastic atmosphere. l-2 From Yelp by Jean L.   Cover Photo from Flickr by Jonathan Ball Source: Thrillist, Huffington Post, Yelp

Best Burgers in California

We've posted about In-N-Out and it's true, we do love their burgers, but we know they aren't the only burger place in California. We thought we'd welcome the coming of summer by compiling a list of the best burger places in California to get your mouth watering and to give you some possible road trip destinations.

Best Burgers in California

Etna Brewery, Etna

Enjoy a local brew and a fantastic burger at this Northern California local favorite. You can go old-school with a cheese burger or kick it up a notch with their well known Ortega Burger! Flickr by Zane Mulligan Flickr by Zane Mulligan

Burgers & Brew, Sacramento

Grab a brew. Grab a burger.  Grab some friends and head on over to Burgers & Brew in Sacramento. With award winning brews and burgers (we're talking Best Burger in Yolo county!), you can't go wrong. Flickr by Angelo DeSantis Flickr by Angelo DeSantis

Pearl's Deluxe Burgers, San Francisco

The Yelp enthusiasts dub Pearl's Deluxe burgers to have one of the best burgers in California! Check it out for yourself and see if you agree. Flickr by hermitsmoores Flickr by hermitsmoores

Super Duper Burgers, San Francisco

They boast "Fast food burgers, slow food values" and what could be better than that? Everything's all natural and a lot of what they offer is made right there in the shop. Hop on over and check it out. Flickr  by wEnDy Flickr by wEnDy

Zuni Cafe, San Francisco

Hidden amidst an impressive menu, you may not initially think of Zuni Cafe as a "burger place" but if what we're hearing is right, they offer an amazing (albeit high-end) burger! Flicker by Jason Hamner Flicker by Jason Hamner

Burger Lunge, Tahoe

Another Yelp reviewers favorite, this burger joint is the place to be this summer if you're in the Tahoe area. Make sure you come prepared to take your time selecting because they have an impressive lists of burgers to choose from. Flickr by Lauren Flickr by Lauren

Hook Burger Bistor, Southern California Locations

The minute you take a bike of a Hook burger, you're sure to be hooked ;) We also love that they support many different causes. This is an all-around great burger place and definitely a great addition to your summer list. Flickr by Doran Flickr by Doran

Get the Burger, Big Bear

This home-grown burger place is a classic and just what you need whether you're enjoying summer hiking and tanning at the lake or shredding the slopes in the winter! Flickr by Jennifer Flickr by Jennifer

Lucky's Tavern, Hollywood

Lucky's boasts "made from scratch - artisan burgers" and is a prime spot for great beer and great burgers! Burger-Diablo From Lucky's Tavern

Umami, San Francisco and Southern California

With the trademark "U" stamped onto the top of their buns, Umami is in a class all its own. With many locations in Southern California and the bay area, you have no excuse to avoid a satisfying and delicious trip to Umami soon (today maybe?). Flicker by Larry Flickr by Larry

The Father's Office, Los Angeles

This Gastropub created by Chef Sang Yoon features their most popular burger, the "Office Burger". It's also a great place for beer with an European influenced atmosphere. Good burger on a crunchy roll Flickr by Daremoshiranai

Stout, Los Angeles

Stout offers affordable burgers to discerning Los Angeles foodies. Make a trek to discover their amazing gruyere and blue cheese burger toppings among other additions that make these burgers delicious  and some of the best burgers in California. Flickr by Drew Hubbard-Ben Waters Flickr by Drew Hubbard-Ben Waters

Mom's Burgers, Compton

They aren't healthy, and maybe sometimes they look a little overwhelming, but Mom's Burgers will knock your socks off! They are a must-have! 5483050502_8868595926 From LA Weekly

Burger Boss, Riverside & Corona

With the option to order on line, natural ingredients, gluten free options, and so much more, how could we not put Burger Boss on a best burgers in California list? OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Flickr by Gabriel Amadeus

Dave's Burgers, Long Beach

At 4.5 starts on Yelp, you know that Dave's Burgers is the place to be! It's small and out of the way, but definitely worth a stop if you're in the Long Beach area. l From Yelp by Louie B.

Rocky's Crown Pub, San Diego

The first thing you'll see on their website is this claim, " Welcome to Rocky's, home of the best burgers in San Diego" - couldn't get any clearer than that, could you? But their legend goes beyond just their website! Any local will tell you they've got what it takes to make the list of the best burgers in California! 9186611131_a9a2771712_k Flickr by Kirk K

Did we miss your favorite burger place? Tell us about it in the comments below!   Cover Photo from Flickr by James Source: Yelp, Thrillist, LA Weekly, We Be Trippin'

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