With the statewide reopening, all California attractions and service providers are permitted to be open for business, without restrictions, except in the case of mega events (see Are there any requirements for events? While art and design are inescapable here (mid-century everywhere you look), the recently-reopened Palm Springs Art Museum is of particular note, with an extensive collection of modernist photography and art; book your timed ticket in advance. Bear Valley Search & Rescue - High-Tech Escape Room. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and agrarian landscape, the farmhouse-inspired lodge takes a fresh approach to the wine country vacation with a spa focused on performance enhancement. If youre looking to beat the crowds, plan to visit lesser-known, locally loved gems like Grand Central Market and Griffith Park. All restaurants in these stories are now limited to takeout meals; some may have closed. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Joining Cond Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Award winners Allegretto Vineyard Resort and the more intimate Hotel Cheval on the town square are newer lodgings including the Stables Inn, from the same team as the stately Cheval but with a more laid-back vibe. search developed and trademarked an odorless, nontoxic cleaning solution called Premium Purity. Let a trained driver worry about the traffic while you enjoy the Big Apple's best sights. Its better to be overprepared than underprepared. to Default, About the Viral and Rickettsial Disease Lab, CDER Information for Health Professionals, Communicable Disease Emergency Response Program, DCDC Information for Local Health Departments, Sexually Transmitted Diseases Control Branch, VRDL Guidelines for Specimen Collection and Submission for Pathologic Testing, State of CaliforniaHealth and Human Services Agency, en Need a cool snack? And if not? Its always busy, so its best to try this early in the day, preferably a weekday. Past restrictions COVID-19 Disease Control & Prevention. Youll find houseboats floating in places you may not expect, such as a private lake in Virginia or a glampsite on the Mississippi River. Determine how your current coverage works and what options to consider. La Paloma has a history stretching back to the 1940s and recently reopened with a menu that links the culinary legacies of California and Mexico. California, which was the first state to report 2 million coronavirus cases in December 2020, is now a state with the lowest COVID-19 incidence, according to data collected by Johns Hopkins University. The best advice is to pick one area or region to explore and then plan to come back for more. Head to Kings Canyon National Park if you want to see more of California's famous sequoias after visiting Yosemite and Sequoia national parks. If you love: The artsy and craft-centric coastal region of Cornwall, EnglandWhere to stay:Chatham Bars InnBefore you go: Youll need a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of arriving. No matter where you go, health experts urge you to wear a mask unless youre eating or in the water. When you're ready to walk off all of that food and wine, venture to Robert Louis Stevenson State Park for a light yet very scenic hike. California Department of Public Health. Whether you're planning a daytrip or a relaxing weekend getaway, there are countless ways to spend your time here, from zip lining and snorkeling to sipping cocktails on the beach. Holly Johnson|Marisa MndezApril 28, 2023, Brittany Chrusciel|Gwen PratesiApril 21, 2023, Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. ForsterApril 21, 2023, Lyn Mettler|Timothy J. ForsterApril 20, 2023. try the Calistoga Motor Lodge in Napa Valley, where the motel-style rooms open to the outdoors for plenty of fresh air and guests have access to complimentary bikes for solo rides through the vineyards. These Small Towns in France Are Straight Out of a Storybook. Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner. With 1 in 6 Americans now fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and the CDC saying that travel is safe for vaccinated individuals, it's expected that travel will return in a big way. Laguna Beach is the perfect destination if you're looking for a small-town, Southern California experience. (If a car-free weekend sounds appealing, the citys new electric-bike fleet, Santa Barbara BCycle, has visitor-friendly passes.) For a memorable overview of nearby beach, cliffs and sea, park at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, watch paragliders take off, get a sandwich at the Cliffhanger Cafe and sit at one of the outdoor picnic tables. Must-visits include the House of Flowers, where youll sip estate vineyard Pinot Noir under sleek cabanas; and the swank new tasting room at the Aperture Estate, specializing in cool-climate Bordeaux varietals, with spectacular views out onto the Russian River Valley. After a day of fun in the sand, shop till you drop at the popular Third Street Promenade, an outdoor pedestrian-only mall featuring several boutiques, eateries and entertainment options, before heading to Palisades Park for an unforgettable Southern California sunset. Why is Frank McCourt really pushing this? So its an ideal summer for a road trip. Keep an eye out for more restaurant openings later this summer: long-anticipated tri-level The Matheson, from local talent Dustin Valette, and vegetarian restaurant Little Saint, from the team behind triple Michelin-starred SingleThread. Get one with a firepit, and dont miss the very tempting gift shop. Among the many hotels in New Yorks Catskill mountain region, Urban Cowboy Lodge (pictured) makes social distancing easy with guest rooms spread across five separate buildings, bonfires and guided hikes, and a focus on outdoor and in-room dining (theres even a Robertas pizza truck parked outside). For COVID-19 rules and advice, visit the Los Angeles government website. Use apps such as Hipcamp and the Dyrt to find off-the-beaten-path RV and glamping sites instead. No. The pandemics toll on tourism was compounded by devastating wildfires that damaged some iconic hotels, took out others entirely, and wreaked havoc on winemakers during the all-important harvest season. Dont expect much in the way of shopping or nightlife, but theres really no need; youre here for the stunning landscape of the Pacific coast, truly up there with any in the world. But for now, lets start small. Bring your bike: There are 28 miles of trails. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Yosemite National Park offers every adventure activity you can possibly think of, from low-impact activities like fishing and bird-watching to daredevil pursuits, such as rock climbing and rafting. In NYC, you may be charged a COVID surcharge of up to 10 percent of your pre-tax bill at restaurants, to help cover costs incurred during the pandemic. If traveling to an area with high or medium COVID-19 Community Levels, and you are, live with, or are visiting someone who is . Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990. For example, if a restaurant server is taking care of you while youre eating and unmasked, make sure you dont talk directly at the server. READ MOREHow an Unplanned Road Trip Helped a California Family Reclaim the Van, What Camping During COVID Is Actually Like. With some exceptions (see bulleted list below), the mask requirement for vaccinated individuals has been lifted. With our 90-day cancellation policy, you can obtain a refund for unused passes for up to 90 days from purchase, giving you greater security when planning . Away from the shore, visitors can see ancient Greek, Roman and Etruscan antiquities at the Getty Villa or sample wines during a wine hike or a bus tour. Because your mileage will vary depending on where you live, weve included some borderline cases (such as San Diego). READ MOREMy Family Vacation to the Chesapeake BayDuring COVID, On Moosehead Lake, Finding Calm in the Chaos. Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner. Although most folks seem to have skipped their vacations altogether, many . While you'll no doubt contend with the city's infamous bumper-to-bumper traffic during your stay, knowing you have world-famous hot spots like Hollywood and Beverly Hills at your fingertips will leave you exhilarated. Get tested. Reporting by Michelle Baran, Natalie Beauregard, Tim Chester, Maggie Fuller, Aislyn Greene, Katherine LaGrave, Devorah Lev-Tov, Lyndsey Matthews, and Laura Dannen Redman. While taking any form of public transit (planes, buses, trains, rideshares, cable cars, etc.) With art galleries, museums, parks and a central district filled with shops, SLO offers plenty to see and do. Then peruse lower State Streets shops and restaurants, especially the stretch from Haley to Sola streets, where local leaders recently banned cars to create an eight-block promenade. Bliss State Park for some of the best views of the lake. Miles from DTLA: 2-8. Consider these U.S. alternatives for classic European summer holiday destinations. Spanning 90 miles of rugged coastline between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon (best captured at the iconic Bixby Bridge), Big Sur offers numerous hiking trails that weave in and out of the area's mountains and valleys, as well as pathways that lead to wild, seemingly untouched beaches. Sitting approximately 130 miles east of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Parks roughly 800,000 acres are excellent for enjoying outdoor activities. It continues to shine, especially now with its exquisite outdoor dining (and flexible booking). (Its awkward, we know, but err on the side of caution as much as possible.). Miles from DTLA: 125. Before traveling, familiarize yourself withlocal guidelines and regulationsfor all of the destinations you plan to visit. Its interior was closed as of Sept. 15, but the grounds are accessible and you can walk along the bluffs. Constructed in 1933, the one-mile-wide Golden Gate is an international emblem. Whether you're zipping around on a cable car, exploring one of the city's many culturally eclectic neighborhoods, admiring towering redwoods near the iconic Golden Gate Bridge or diving fork first into its world-renowned food scene (you'll find dozens of Michelin-starred restaurants here), San Francisco's energy is always downright electric. Start at Santa Barbaras Stearns Wharf and get some sea breeze in your hair. Use apps such as Hipcamp and the Dyrt to find off-the-beaten-path RV and glamping sites instead. 9 Best Weekend Getaways in California to Escape LA, San Francisco, and San Diego | Cond Nast Traveler SALE: SUBSCRIBE AND GET 1 YEAR FOR $21.99 $5 North America United States California Getty. Following years of #vanlife fantasies, romanticized by vintage camper vans and shining silver Airstreams, the bring-your-accommodation-with-you road trip suddenly found itself back in the spotlight thanks to COVID. Escape to the Golden State without breaking the bank. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. Always a dining destination, Healdsburgs newer culinary hits include bakery hotspot Quail & Condor, the impressive Asahi Sushi & Kitchen, and the phenomenal Hazel Hill up the road at the Montage; worth a drive even if youre not booked in at the resort. There are no travel restrictions in California, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a detailed collection ofsafe travel practicesthat is worth reviewing. Kayakers explore the cliffs and caves along the coast near Goldfish Point in La Jolla. The city, which is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, offers mild weather year-round that's perfect for soaking up some sun on its palm tree-lined beaches. Goes Out newsletter, with the week's best events, to help you explore and experience our city. For a break from the sun, pop into one of downtown's art galleries or boutiques. However, since Thanksgiving, the statewide seven-day average case rate has increased by 47% and hospitalizations have increased by 14%. COVID in California: Fauci to skip press dinner while Biden forgoes the meal California does not have to require prison workers to get COVID vaccines, court rules "We are seeing about 70 new . This breathtaking monument is exactly what you need to get out of the hustle and bustle of city life. Or walk the coastal side of the road (Point Fermin Park) to see the vintage lighthouse and rocky cliffs. 2. Santa Barbara, 95 milesSolvang, 128 milesBakersfield, 111 milesPalm Springs, 106 milesJoshua Tree National Park (west entrance), 131 milesTemecula, 85 milesSan Clemente, 61 milesCarlsbad, 87 miles. A few miles south, in St. Helena, taste your way through luscious Cabs at the striking new Faust Hausyou cant miss the jet-black restored 1878 Victorian perched on a hillside above the valley. Opened just this spring, the 24-room Palihouse Santa Barbara immediately established itself as one of the citys best boutique hotels. What it does have, in spades? At present, 63% of Californians 12 years of age and older are fully vaccinated with an additional 10% partially vaccinated. This article was originally published August 21, 2020; it was updated March 2, 2021 with new information. below) and non-vaccinated visitors (see Are masks still required indoors? You can still find snow on these slopes near L.A. The Andreas Canyon trail in Indian Canyons in Palm Springs has lush palm trees on the left and dramatic rock formations on the right. Check in at Casa Codythe oldest operating hotel in Palm Springsrecently revamped by new owners the Casetta Group, with 30 refreshed rooms and a prime downtown location. Check the current COVID-19 Community Level at your destination . If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Miles from DTLA: 12. Or grab a burger at the Spot (389 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-6311), which has a rustic patio and food to go. Weve been crunching numbers on day trips for you and keeping the number 120 in mind. These magnificent trees are native to the western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in central California. An alternative is to pick one or two piers Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo each have one and build a walk. The 46 guest rooms are filled with midcentury modern furnishings, pendant lamps, and Crosley record players. The entire regions scenic vistasespecially scenic during the pink moment, when sunset illuminates the mountains and valley in a spectrum of pink huesare worth every moment of the drive. This driving route take you deep into the heart of Craftsman style. Youll find us in the garden lounge by the fire pit. Protect the public. Other must-do activities include biking, horseback riding and stargazing; this International Dark Sky Park offers little light pollution, making it a superb place to admire the Milky Way. Enjoy the efficiency of an organized tour led by experts who bring Rome's history to life. But when youre ready, these places are too. One way to narrow down your choice is to come during one of the many events that are back in California this year, including the Outside Lands Festival in San Francisco taking place in August or the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival 2022 in June. Just remember to check local restrictions before you go. EAST COAST: Beach season continues well into September across much of the country, which means you could grab a towel and some sustainable sunscreen and make a day trip to one of these beloved small beach towns. And as virtually all of Palm Springs is designed for indoor-outdoor living, those who still prefer patio dining are spoiled for choice. Theres plenty new to visit down the valley, too. But with planning and care (and perhaps some weeks of waiting until infection rates slow), you can take a day trip that meets state guidelines and still slakes your wanderlust. Point Reyes National Seashore's 70,000-plus acres beckon to wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. When you need a break from all the action, check out the shops and restaurants at The Village at Big Bear Lake. The Palm Desert Prowl Scavenger Hunt. Situated about 15 miles west of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica easily stands alone as its own must-visit destination. Enjoy the efficiency of an organized tour led by experts who bring Rome's history to life. This protected area about 40 miles northwest of San Francisco offers ample opportunities to see hundreds of animal species, including elephant seals, gray whales and nearly 490 kinds of birds. One of the country's most popular national parks can be found about 170 miles east of San Francisco. For decades, Palm Springs was a celebrity playground. Guests swim in the scenic pool at the Montage Laguna Beach. Whatever you choose to do, don't leave without exploring can't-miss sites like Tunnel View overlook, Half Dome and Vernal Fall. Wake up early, bring your bike or rent one and ride the Strand, a paved 22-mile beachfront route that spans Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach. In response to this ever-changing situation, we're doing everything we can to make sure that sightseeing with us is flexible for you. If you just want a view and some sunshine with your meal, claim a table at Ventana Big Sur. Many prefer payment with credit or debit cards right now, to avoid handling cash. A few sites, including group campsites, remain closed to the public due to the pandemic, wildfire impacts and other issues. You can opt to go for an on-site hike with a prepared picnic lunch, followed by a dip in the lakeor a long bath in your own deep-soaking tub. Boasting everything from wild bison (which roam the interior of the island) to upscale boutiques and restaurants in Avalon, Catalina Island constantly wows travelers with its diverse offerings and unparalleled natural beauty. READ MOREThe Future of Dining Is Alfresco, Swim for Supper on Your Next Florida Trip, Northern California Wine Country Is OpenTravel Responsibly, AFAR participates in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase an item featured on our site. 2023 AFAR Media, What All Travelers Should Be Doing During Coronavirus, staggering 1,000 percent from April to June, step-by-step guide to traveling in a RV during a pandemic, beginners guide to taking an RV trip with kids, growing number of families who are on the road full time, off-the-beaten-path RV and glamping sites, How an Unplanned Road Trip Helped a California Family Reclaim the Van, 11 Places in the United States That Feel Like Europe, reopened for Thursday-Sunday stays with new COVID safety measures, Snowcreek Resort in Californias Mammoth Lakes, Blue Ridge Mountain cabins you can rent on Airbnb or Vrbo, Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa, JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale Resort and Spa, A Family-Friendly Road Trip to Californias Mammoth Lakes. Staying there is like trying on the SoCal life for a weekend: Youre within easy access of vegan restaurants and cool little shops, and Airstreams themselves are spacious (and kid and pet friendly). All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. Cond Nast Traveler does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Have respect and empathy for hospitality professionals trying to offer you a memorable experience in these difficult times. Get breakfast or lunch on the patio at Esaus Caf (507 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-1070, esauscafe.com; call to check days and hours), where the surfer vibes are thick. Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance for the lowest price. To find a Port of Entry in your state or territory, select it in the map below or use the form in the right column. Visitors can also explore various beaches, wander down to the Point Reyes Lighthouse and hike some of the area's miles of trails, including the Earthquake Trail, which travels along the San Andreas Fault. For the best weather, arrive between November and March (in summer, the park's average daytime temperature can often surpass 120 degrees). ), Over at Sound View Greenport (pictured) on Long Islands North Fork, guests can book one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens and private outdoor decks overlooking the ocean. Even if your goal is to simply relax, don't leave without a light stroll or hike through Emerald Bay State Park or D.L. 1. However, Pitkin County home to Aspen requires visitors to complete an online. To be sure youre traveling safely and responsibly across the United States, check local travel restrictions before you go. Other must-do activities in Death Valley include viewing exhibits at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, watching the sunrise at Zabriskie Point and stargazing from the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. As such, the State is issuing the following recommendations, which supersede all prior Travel Advisories: PO Box 997377 For a fancy dinner, you might try Georges at the Cove, a longtime Prospect Street mainstay whose Level 2 and Ocean Terrace dining areas are open. The bad news is that its theater, which has been screening The Romance & Sex Life of the Date since 1953, is now closed. We also love the family-friendly Snowcreek Resort in Californias Mammoth Lakes. 7. A $300-million (minimum) gondola to Dodger Stadium? 1-833-422-4255. Santa Barbara, 95 miles Solvang, 128 miles Bakersfield, 111 miles Palm Springs, 106 miles Joshua Tree National Park (west entrance), 131 miles Temecula, 85 miles San Clemente, 61 miles Carlsbad, 87. Napa Valley, well known for its robust cabernet sauvignon, reigns supreme as one of the best wine destinations in the world. But this small town is worth a longer stay. As of June 1, 2021, adults can check into one of 12 free-standing homes on property, the new Green O. The Bridgeway Promenade is where you'll find the bulk of Sausalito's shops, restaurants and art galleries. Yes. (About 3.5-4 hours from Los Angeles or San Francisco), No matter where you go in the area, a trip to Ojai is like a wellness retreat; its nearly impossible to visit and not be inspired to get out into nature. PO Box, 997377, MS 0500, Sacramento, CA 95899-7377. Colorado currently has no statewide travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining. While each of Sonoma Countys small towns has its own appeal, theres something especially charming about Healdsburgand plenty of recent developments that merit a visit. On Saturday, September 18, 24.99 new cases were registered per 100,000 inhabitants. COVID-19 hotline. For those who prefer the indoor luxuries of a hotel mixed with the privacy of camping in the woods, look no further than this curated list of Blue Ridge Mountain cabins you can rent on Airbnb or Vrbo. Not only is the valley filled to the brim with impressive hotels, but you'll also find a number of Michelin-starred dining establishments. Vote below to help influence next year's list. Recommended time: At least five days, ideally one or two weeks. Just schedule any hikes, like the two-mile loop to the Tahquitz Falls, early in the morning. Decrease, Reset Up in Calistoga, Solage Resort and Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection, has just completed a $30 million redesign featuring restyled suites and studios, appealing pool cabanas, and a new poolside restaurant, Picobar, with modern takes on Mexico City-style street food. From hiking and rock climbing to bird-watching and. The grounds and view from Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes. Still, since every facility will have its own policies, check their website before you visit and be sure to review Visit CaliforniasResponsible Travel Hub, as well as Visit Californias California Is Open: What You Need to Know hub. If you want an eyeful of the state's iconic, towering sequoias during your California vacation, there's no better place to visit than Sequoia National Park. This awe-inspiring destination at the edge of the Pacific Ocean features scenery so spellbindingly beautiful, it has the habit of putting travelers into a trance. SLO is packed with highly regarded wineries, breweries and restaurants and even hosts a popular farmers market every Thursday night. Here are some family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that promise to make your trip a blast: Holcomb's Lost Gold - Old West Escape Room. What to Know About Ongoing Protests, For a Wild West Adventure, Head to These 10 Family-Friendly Ranches and Lodges, This Is the Destination Families Cant Get Enough of Right Now, According to Travel Experts, How to Earn and Burn Hotel Points This Summer, Waikk Is So Much More Than a Place for Tourists, How to Make Sure Your Travel Dollars Actually Benefit Local Communities, Inside A South Africa Safari Lodge Run Entirely on Solar (Even the Electric Land Cruisers). If you've never thought of the Golden State as a ski destination, Mammoth Lakes might change your mind. California recommends travelers be vaccinated before visiting, but it is not mandatory. Stop at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Isolated highway closures remain in the Eastern Sierra and on the Central Coast. Now, where to go? Here, culled from recent L.A. Times stories, is a collection of options, all outdoorsy or car-based. Become one with nature at these amazing treetop retreats. Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list. Its vacation rentals are made for social distancing: no need to visit reception or deal with any humans at check-in; a keycode for entry; and miles of nearby hiking and biking trails that wind their way into Mammoth itself. GULF COAST: Alabama beaches? If so, book lodging and restaurant reservations in advance as best you can. On this itinerary, youll see all sorts of beach scenery and canyon greenery. Located in central California about 40 miles south of Santa Cruz, Monterey is awash with picture-perfect beaches and charming seaside neighborhoods. Pasos dining scene is as vibrant as ever; dont miss The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar, with wood-fired cuisine and local wines on tap, or a stellar French meal (and equally compelling wine list) at Les Petites Canailles. I agree and consent to receiveemails from Visit California and its partners with special offers and exclusive content and that I am at least 18 years old, [[ crowdriff-gallery-id: 9523e13f-b333-4906-9c5f-971161933078 ]], Heres what to expect when you go to vineyards and tasting rooms across the state, The Golden State's celebrated national parks and federal lands are open, but plan ahead to ensure the best possible trip, While many rules have been relaxed or eliminated entirely, a few pandemic protocols are keeping the reopening safe and streamlined, Boutiques, shops, and malls look forward to your visitheres everything you need to know about shopping in the Golden State, Raise a glass to the Golden State's craft beer industry while enjoying its pandemic-inspired improvements, More than 1,000 miles of beaches and 280 state parks beckon visitors this summer, Safety measures continue during the states reopening as summer demand for vehicles soars, Join the record number of travelers arriving at Golden State airports, where safety measures help to ensure a healthy trip, As travelers hit the road, California hotels are ready and open for visitors, Most restrictions have lifted but a few protocols remain in place, depending on the location, Ski resorts embrace the 2021-22 winter season with no outdoor mask requirements, more dining availability, and high-tech ticket sales, California Is Open: What You Need to Know.