Top Parks in California

Wear comfy shoes. I thought I'd be fine in flip flops, but I ended up with sore feet. There’s a lot to explore, so you’ll want to keep moving.

Try to visit on a weekday if you can. It’s way less crowded, and you’ll have a better time wandering around without bumping into too many folks.

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

Parking is tough around the bridge. I suggest using public transit or rideshare apps to save stress and money. It can get pricey with parking fees!

Dress in layers! The weather changes quickly and I was freezing when I thought it’d be warm. A light jacket can make your experience way more enjoyable

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.

Don't forget to bring some water and snacks, especially if you plan on wandering around for a few hours. It can get hot, and food prices can be steep.

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!

If you're into people-watching, snag a spot near the playground. It's always lively there, lots of fun stuff to see!

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

I suggest checking out the California Science Center first, especially if you're into interactive exhibits. It can get crowded, so I recommend getting there by 10 AM for the best experience.

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