Top Parks in California

Don't miss the Botanical Building, it's beautiful and totally free! Perfect for some great pics and a little peaceful escape from the busyness

Check out the visitor center to grab a free map & info about trails. I didn’t do this and ended up wandering around aimlessly for awhile.

I suggest getting a National Park pass if you're visiting multiple parks. It saves money and you get access to a ton of unique places, not just Yosemite!

Check out the ranger-led programs! They’re often free and super informative. I found out so much about the park's geology that made my visit even better.

I suggest visiting on a weekday if you can. The crowds are way smaller, and you can actually enjoy the shops and restaurants without feeling rushed.

I recommend packing snacks and plenty of water before you go; food options inside the park are pretty limited and can get pricey. I wish I had brought my own lunch to enjoy at a viewpoint.

I think you should check the weather before you go, especially in summer. It can get scorching! I found myself melting by noon; a cooler day would have been more pleasant for hiking

If you’re into stargazing, don’t miss it! My advice is to stick around until about 10 pm - the sky comes alive. Just make sure to bring a warm jacket, as temps drop fast!

I recommend checking out the Generals Highway. It's stunning, but watch out for slow-moving vehicles – we got stuck behind an RV for a while. Patience pays off with the views!

I found the best time to visit was around 4 PM. You can catch the sunset and avoid the midday heat - super relaxing!

My tip: Don't miss the Rose Garden, it’s usually quiet and a perfect spot for some great photos. Try to go in the early afternoon when the light is best

If you’re into the arcade games, make sure you get a reloadable game card. I wasted time fumbling with coins the first time around, and a card just makes everything smoother!

I suggest getting there right when it opens at 11 AM to beat the crowds and enjoy the rides without long lines. Trust me, some rides can get pretty busy later on.

I think it’s smart to bring your own snacks and drinks to save money... Food inside the park can be a bit pricey, and while it's not bad, it's not exactly gourmet either