California Travel Tips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill checks in at Radiator Springs for a special Cars Land Travel Guide in this episode of "California Travel Tips." Cars Land completed a billion-dollar expansion at Disney California Adventure , which took 5 years to complete. And guess what? It was worth the wait. No detail was overlooked in this faithful recreation of the movie — from the blinking street light on Route 66, to the awesome mountain range that overlooks the valley. Be sure to grab a Radiator Springs Racers Fast Pass when you arrive. Then just kick back, and enjoy the ride! You can spin and whirl on a bed of air at Luigi's Flying Tires, then get into the swing of things at Mater's Junkyard Jamboree. The Cozy Cone Motel is a restaurant in Cars Land that's modeled after the famous Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino. The restaurant sells everything in a cone — from popcorn and pretzel bites, to their famous Chicken Chile Verde and Chili Cone Queso recipe. I recommend the Pomegranate Limeade, which comes in kid-friendly — or adult creations. The Motel hosts meet-and-greets with Mater and Lightning McQueen throughout the day, so be sure to pop by the lobby and say hello. For more good eats, check out Flo's V8 Cafe, which was modeled after the homestyle diners found along the Mother Road. One of their specialties are Flo's homemade pies! And if you're looking for a healthy snack, Fillmore's Taste In has you covered with ice cold waters, drinks and fresh cut fruit. You'll find plenty of Cars souvenirs inside three gift shops. Ramone's House of Body Art sells a variety of Cars merchandise, while Radiator Springs Curios sells an awesome assortment of Route 66 souvenirs. At Sarge's Surplus Hut, you can stock up on a variety Disney collectibles and treats. Before you leave, check out the Blue Sky Cellar, which highlights the construction of Cars Land. This is also a great spot to catch the Pixar Play Parade, or watch Radiator Springs as it lights up in neon after dark. It's one of the best photo-opps in the park! Thanks for joining us in Cars Land! We'll see you next time! Creative Commons music by Jason Shaw at http://www.AudioNautix.com SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

Chef Curtis Cooke of the Golden Door Spa prepares a Miso Glazed Mero with stir-fried vegetables, kale and black quinoa in this episode of "California Travel Tips." LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill offers this Golden Door Spa travel guide in this episode of "California Travel Tips." The Golden Door is one of the top luxury spa retreats in San Diego — if not the world, having drawn guests including first ladies, royalty and countless celebrities. While you're here, don't miss the Golden Door yoga program, which includes 7 types of yoga classes, and the classic labyrinth, which has been a source of meditation for thousands of years. It's no wonder that the Golden Door is a top San Diego spa retreat, drawing loyal fans from around the globe. Although there are several locations of the spa throughout the world, including Arizona, Utah, Florida and Puerto Rico, the Golden Door Escondido is the original location. It is situated in a lush woodland in Northern San Diego's famous Avocado Highway. SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill offers a tour of the Lotusland gardens in Santa Barbara in this episode of "California Travel Tips." If you're looking for things to do in Santa Barbara, this is a must for garden lovers. The Lotusland gardens in Montecito are among the world's best examples of mass planting, leading the trend for many gardeners today. The estate, once owned by Polish opera singer Ganna Walska, is truly magnificent — filled with a theater garden, desert garden, rose gardens, Japanese garden and rare collection of cycads. SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill tours the Santa Barbara Zoo in this episode of "California Travel Tips." Located just steps from the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Barbara Zoo is one of the best things to do in Santa Barbara. Plan on roughly 3 hours to tour the grounds, which are home to more than 500 different animals. Santa Barbara Zoo hours are 10-5 daily. Discount tickets to the Santa Barbara Zoo are offered to seniors and college students. During the summer, don't miss the Santa Barbara Zoo camp. The Family Zoo Snooze includes an overnight stay combined with hands-on activities, behind-the-scenes tours and a pancake breakfast in the morning. Music: Creative Commons by Jason Shaw at http://www.AudioNautix.com CONNECT WITH CALIFORNIA TRAVEL TIPS LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill tours the USS Midway Museum in San Diego in this episode of "California Travel Tips." First, a bit of USS Midway history: During its 47 years as a US Navy aircraft carrier, the ship evacuated more than 3,000 Saigon refugees, led operations in the Persian Gulf, and rescued more than 1,800 Americans in Mt. Pinatubo. When it was built in 1945, the USS Midway was the largest ship in the world, weighing 69,000 tons and measuring 1,001 feet. In 2004, the aircraft carrier opened as a museum, making its permanent home in sunny San Diego. Today, it's one of the most popular San Diego attractions. USS Midway Tours are available on the ship's Island. Here, docents will take you up to the captain's bridge and control tower, where you'll learn more about the Midway's daily operations. To learn more about the ship and the USS Midway Aircraft Museum, go to http://www.CaliforniaTravelExpert.com Music: By Jason Shaw of http://www.Audionautix.com Preview Photo: Courtesy of USS Midway Museum SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill offers a tour of the Birch Aquarium in La Jolla, San Diego, in this episode of "California Travel Tips." One of the most charming, kid-friendly attractions in San Diego, the La Jolla Birch Aquarium dates back to 1903, and is part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and UC San Diego. This California aquarium boasts a variety of sea life including jellyfish, wolf eels, and an impressive 70,000-gallon kelp forest tank. It is one of many popular San Diego attractions. Birch Aquarium whale watching is offered throughout the year. Birch Aquarium discounts are available through AAA, the Go San Diego Card, and sometimes through Foursquare. You can often get Birch Aquarium coupons through the San Diego tourism guides and local magazines, or online at their website. During museum month in February, tickets are half off with a free Culture Card, available at San Diego county Macy's. SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her Balboa Park travel guide in this episode of "California Travel Tips." Called the Smithsonian of the West, Balboa Park is one of the top San Diego attractions and our nation's largest urban cultural park. It sits on 1,200 acres of lush gardens, world-class museums and performing arts venues. You can spend an entire day just at the San Diego Zoo, a lush landscape of botanical gardens that's home to more than 4,000 animals and 800 species. In October, kids under 12 are free! If you're here for the Balboa Park museums, park at Inspiration Point off Park Boulevard and take the free trolley to the Visitor Center. From here, you can walk to most of the San Diego attractions. Start with a morning stroll in the peaceful Japanese Friendship Garden, which is home to colorful koi and Zen gardens, then check out the park's impressive Spanish-Renaissance revival buildings, which date back to the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. The Museum of Man is housed in one of Balboa Park's most striking buildings, just beneath the 200-foot-tall California Tower. Here you can explore the world of anthropology, ranging from impressive Mayan monuments and figurines, to one of the country's best collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts and mummies. Kids will enjoy the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center — which boasts more than 100 hands-on activities — and the charming San Diego Model Railroad Museum, which is the largest of its kind in the United States. Learn about prehistoric bones and fossils in The San Diego Natural History Museum, or check out major exhibitions in the San Diego Museum of Art. When it comes time to eat, there are 11 eateries throughout the park. Enjoy signature cocktails and gourmet fare at the full-service Balboa Park Prado Restaurant, or nibble on sushi and soba noodles in the Tea Pavilion. During the summer, you can enjoy free organ concerts at Spreckels Organ Pavilion — a tradition since 1915. The park's historic Old Globe Theatre, founded in 1935, serves up everything from Broadway productions to a summer Shakespeare Festival. For the best bang for your buck, buy the "Stay for the Day" pass, which allows access to five attractions (excluding the zoo). The 7-day Passport is a Balboa Park Museum Pass that offers admission to 14 museums. San Diego residents can enjoy Balboa Park Free Tuesdays, which allows free admission to select museums on Tuesdays. SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill offers a Knott's Berry Farm travel guide in this episode of "California Travel Tips." Located on Beach Boulevard — just about 7 miles west of Disneyland — Knott's Berry Farm grew from its humble beginnings as a roadside berry stand into 160 acres of thrill rides and Old West adventures. The theme park was built to entertain guests who were waiting for Mrs. Knott's Famous Fried Chicken. Since 1934, more than 20 million meals have been served at the Knott's Berry Farm restaurant. There are 41 Knott's Berry Farm rides to choose from, including 9 different roller coasters. Brave the 75-degree descent on Perilous Plunge — the world's tallest and steepest water coaster — or spiral at 55 miles per hour on Silver Bullet — the longest inverted roller coaster on the West coast. On Xcelerator, you'll launch from 0 -- 82 mph in 2.3 seconds! There are nine different lands in the park, each with its own unique theme. On a busy day, consider the Knott's Berry Farm Fast Lane upgrade, which allows you to bypass the regular lines on 10 popular Knott's Berry Farm attractions. Go head over heels on Riptide, brave six inversions on Boomerang, or accelerate from 0-38 in the Pony Express moto-coaster. In Fiesta Village, you can rotate 360 degrees on La Revolucion, swing 25 stories above the ground on Wind Seeker, or go from 0-55 in seven seconds on the thrilling Montezuma's Revenge. Jaguar is an Aztec-inspired steel coaster that's perfect for families. For Knott's Berry Farm discounts, come after 4 p.m. You can get Knott's Berry Farm coupons from services like CityPass and the Entertainment book, and from Costco. Admission is free with the 45-minute shopping pass. On The Boardwalk, you can try your hand at several carnival-style games, including Barnyard Basketball. Kids ages 3-5 will enjoy Camp Snoopy, which has 14 Peanuts-related attractions, ranging from Lucy's Tugboat to the Red Baron. During the heat of summer, head to Wild Water Wilderness. You can cool off with a whitewater adventure on Bigfoot Rapids, or hop aboard the Timber Mountain Log Ride for splash-filled journey through 2,100 feet of rivers and waterfalls. Don't miss the West Coast's longest wooden coaster, Ghost Rider, followed by a rickety adventure aboard the Calico Mine Train. The Knott's Berry Farm Ghost Town was created from real Old West buildings in 1940. The attraction was inspired by Walt's childhood working in the Mojave Desert's real Calico silver mines, which he purchased in 1951. Highlights include the 1868 Old Trails Hotel from Prescott, Death Valley's Old Betsy Borax Train, and an 1870s school house. You'll find several more Ghost Town artifacts inside the Western Trails Museum. Old West touches abound, from the 1948 Bottle House, to the working blacksmith shop. Be sure to pop in to Goldie's Place before visiting the Town Jail, where Sad-Eye Joe has been entertaining visitors since 1940. When you're passing through Ghost Town, be sure to pick up one of their famous funnel cakes. The boysenberry topping is a signature item, and one Knott's funnel cake will easily feed a family of four. Be sure to hitch a ride on the Butterfield Stagecoach, then grab a sarsaparilla and enjoy the show at Calico Saloon. In the 1950s, actor Steve Martin started his banjo career here in the Bird Cage Theater at Calico Square. The area is still a showcase for live entertainment, including Native American dancing and crafts. Just don't leave without riding the historic Calico Railroad. This 1881 steam locomotive, purchased from the Denver and Rio Grande, was America's last operating narrow-gauge train. Knott's Berry Farm discounts are available to AAA members, or you can take advantage of their Twilight Tickets after 4 p.m. We suggest getting the season pass. For roughly $18 more, you can go for the entire year! Tip: For the least crowds, come after 4 p.m. (when admission fees drop) or visit on a Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. The months of May, June and September have the fewest crowds. Music by Digital Juice, Jason Shaw at http://www.AudioNautix.com and Kevin McLeod at http://www.Incompetech.com LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

*** Thank you for helping us win YouTube's January 2012 On the Rise competition! *** California travel guide Veronica Hill introduces her web series, California Travel Tips. These California travel videos include Veronica's personal picks for the best California attractions, restaurants, resorts and hotels — along with a few little-known gems. We are so honored to be chosen as the January 2012 winner of YouTube OntheRise. We want to thank AsktheBuilder.com for being our mentor and supporter for 5 years (and tirelessly helping us promote the contest); Meghan Carter (AsktheDecorator) and her brilliant fiancé Brent Walter for their expert video tips and advice; my parents for keeping the kids entertained as we film our videos; traveling YouTubers like pdrop, overlander and waydesworldhawaii for their last-minute support of the competition; sportstalk4kids and cheapfamilytravel for their constant enthusiasm for our channel; and all of our faithful viewers, whose kind words have kept us motivated all these years. Most of all, we want to thank the YouTube community and everyone who voted. You guys are awesome, and we couldn't have done it without your support! SUBSCRIBE for free alerts every time we post a new video at http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=CaliforniaTravelTips SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill checks out Anza Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs in this episode of "California Travel Tips." Anza Borrego park sits near the Salton Sea on more than 600,000 acres of slot canyons and badlands. It's a snowbird's paradise, home to four scenic golf courses, beautiful desert trails and awesome off-road adventures. Fall through spring is the best time to visit Borrego Springs, which is the Anza Borrego desert town center. This is when temperatures dip from summer highs of 120 down to a comfortable 70 to 80 degrees. Spring is when the Anza Borrego flowers carpet the desert in a field of colorful blooms. Anza Borrego wildflowers include such species as desert dandeloin, desert mallow, white sage, lupine and Indian paintbrush. Anza Borrego camping is free throughout the park! If you want a more pampering experience, stay in one of the hotels or RV resorts in Borrego Springs. You can enjoy a round of golf beneath the Santa Rosa mountains, enjoy some catch-and-release fishing on the Springs at Borrego golf course, or go swimming in their 85-degree pool and hot mineral springs. When you arrive, check out the visitors center, which is located just above town. This is also where you'll find Palm Canyon, one of the main Anza Borrego campgrounds with hookups. The Anza Borrego Visitors Center is a great place to learn about the native flora and fauna, take in a geology lesson, or enjoy a short stroll to the desert pupfish pond. These endangered fish can live in water three times as salty as the ocean and up to 120 degrees in heat! Borrego Palm Canyon is one of the area's most popular hikes, clocking in at 3 miles round-trip. Allow roughly 2 hours for the journey, which begins at the Visitor Center and ends at a natural palm oasis. If you're lucky, you may spot some of the desert's native bighorn sheep. On the hike to Alma Wash, you can check out the rare elephant trees, which were discovered here in 1937. One of the most unique sights in Borrego Springs are the metal sculptures, which are scattered throughout the valley. Designed by artist Ricardo Breceda, the sculptures are located along 3 square miles of Galleta Meadows Estate, which sits along Borrego Springs Road. Highlights include a field of farm workers, a stranded desert Jeep and an awesome 350-foot serpent that travels beneath the highway. Many of these larger-than-life sculptures resemble the prehistoric creatures that once roamed Borrego Valley, ranging from giant sloths and camels to wooly Mammoths and saber-toothed tigers. Outside the chamber of commerce, you'll find a replica of Spanish explorer Juan Bautista De Anza, who blazed the trail from Mexico to San Francisco in 1775. Cycling is a great way to see the Anza Borrego desert, and many rentals are available in town. If you have a four-wheel drive, head out to popular locations like Ocotillo Wells, Blair Valley, Split Mountain and Sheep Canyon. The desert's remote location makes it an ideal spot for stargazing. In fact, Borrego Springs hosts dozens of astronomy events throughout the year, and was California's first International Dark Sky community. Music by Jason Shaw at http://www.AudioNautix.com SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California Travel guide Veronica Hill checks out the metal sculptures of Borrego Springs, CA, in this episode of "California Travel Tips." More than 130 metal outdoor sculptures compete for your attention along Borrego Springs Road, ranging from giant camels to saber-toothed tigers. Each metal sculpture was commissioned by Dennis Avery, owner of the Galleta Meadows Estate, and built by Sky Art artist Ricardo Breceda. Breceda's contemporary metal sculptures are for sale through http://ricardoabreceda.com/ Music by Jason Shaw at http://www.AudioNautix.com SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill visits the California ghost town of Julian, San Diego, in this episode of "California Travel Tips." This charming little ghost town — located an hour from San Diego — comes alive during the fall, when it celebrates the famous Julian apple harvest. Bring along a light jacket as you explore the town's quaint stores, restaurants and delicious homemade apple pies. Julian's mining history dates back to 1869, when San Diego experienced its first (and only) Gold Rush. Today, Main Street is filled with dozens of fun shops and attractions. You can hitch a ride on a horse and buggy, do a bit of wine tasting, or get a Western-style portrait taken at Grandpa's Old Time Photo. To learn more about Julian's mining history, join a tour at Eagle and High Peak Mine, located at the end of C Street. Train rides are available on the Smith Ranch and Julian Railroad by appointment. Kids will enjoy panning for gold at the Julian Mining Company, or getting an old-fashioned phosphate at the Miner's Diner soda fountain. But the real draw in Julian is the apple pie, and visitors are fiercely divided on who makes the best. I'm partial to Julian Pie Company, a cozy little diner with a loyal following. Be sure to get here early, as lines quickly form out the door. Once you've had your fill of pie, walk off the calories with a tour of Julian's pioneer cemetery and historic Gold Rush buildings. The Jacoby Building, built in 1897, was the town's original general store. The Wilcox Building, which dates back to 1872, once served as a stage coach stop and Julian's post office. If you want to spend the night, consider staying in the Julian hotels. The Julian Gold Rush Hotel, which was built in 1897, is one of California's best B&Bs, and well worth a visit. Music by Kevin MacLeod at http://www.Incompetech.com SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq CIRCLE ME ON GOOGLE PLUS http://tinyurl.com/odkmbqk FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips BUY MY APPS! California Essential Guide App: ITUNES: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id428163062?mt=8 GOOGLE PLAY: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sutromedia.android.guide.ca.essential.guide568&hl=en Yosemite Travel Essentials App: ITUNES: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=606694986&mt=8 DISNEYLAND INSIDER'S TRAVEL GUIDE ITUNES: https://itunes.apple.com/ua/app/disneyland-insiders-travel/id528739310?mt=8 GOOGLE PLAY: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sutromedia.android.guide.disney.guide&hl=en

California travel guide Veronica Hill shares a video of her favorite California Christmas light show — the Riverside Mission Inn Festival of Lights - in this episode of "California Travel Tips." Held annually in Riverside, CA, this is one of Southern California's best Christmas light displays, complete with live reindeer, carriage rides and a dazzling display of almost 4 million lights! The Christmas light shows run annually from Nov. 25 through the first week of January. Music is creative commons from Jason Shaw at http://www.AudioNautix.com LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill shares her guide to the Living Desert Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Palm Desert in this episode of "California Travel Tips." The 1,200-acre Living Desert Zoo is one of the top attractions in Palm Springs, and is home to a wide variety of desert animals and plants. You can feed the reticulated giraffes, go on a short camel ride through the date palms, or check out the daily wildlife show in Tennity Amphitheater. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill shares her Mission Inn Travel Guide in this episode of California Travel Tips. The Mission Inn in Riverside, which dates back to 1876, is one of the most historic California hotels. From its humble beginnings as a 12-room adobe, this Riverside hotel soon became one of the West's grandest getaways, hosting 10 U.S. Presidents and countless movie stars. (Richard Nixon was married here). Owner Frank Miller borrowed from several architectural styles to build his hotel, bringing back treasures and inspiration from his travels to the Orient, Europe and Spain. The 16th-century Glockenspiel, located in the central courtyard, rotates every 15 minutes with figures of an Indian, Junipero Serra, Juan Baptista De Anza and a Franciscan Monk. 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, CA 92501. (951) 784-0300. SUBSCRIBE! http://tinyurl.com/p2fveuj LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her Mission San Juan Capistrano travel guide in this episode of "California Travel Tips." The "Jewel of the California Missions," Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded by Franciscan Padre Junipero Serra on Nov. 1, 1776. The mission was the 7th of 21 California missions established along El Camino Real, The Kings Road. It was here, in 1779, that California's first vineyard of criolla grapes was planted, and where experts believe the state's wine industry began. The first sacramental wines were produced here in 1783. In 1818, a band of pirates led by Hipolito Bouchard landed at Dana Point and moved inland, raiding the Mission of its food and wine. Fortunately, residents were warned of the assault and hid most of the Mission's gold and treasure. Highlights of the mission include: • Serra Chapel, the last surviving church where Father Junipero Serra performed Mass. • The Great Stone Church, completed in 1806, was once the most magnificent chapel on the West Coast. In 1812, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake destroyed the church, killing 42 parishioners. Some believe that the ghost of Magdalena, a girl killed in the rubble, still haunts the ruins. • The Central Courtyard and Gardens, home to colorful poppies, fragrant blooms, and a bubbling Moorish fountain filled with koi. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her Hearst Castle Travel Guide in this episode of California Travel Tips. This magnificent estate, perched above the crashing surf of San Simeon, was built by William Randoph Hearst in 1919. During its heyday, the castle played host to Hollywood's hottest stars, from Howard Hughes to Marion Davies (Hearst's mistress). The Grand Rooms Tour is one of five tours offered at the castle, and is recommended for first time visitors. Highlights include the white marble Neptune Pool; 50-seat movie theater; indoor Roman pool, and 60,000-square-foot Casa Grande, Hearst's main residence. The castle's art collection includes 22,000 museum-quality artifacts from around the world. For a special treat, check out the "Christmas in the Castle" tour, when the estate is transformed into a holiday display of bright red poinsettias, hand-made garlands and Christmas trees almost 20 feet tall. The evening tour features Living History docents dressed in 1930s period clothing. Tickets sell out quickly, so advanced reservations are strongly recommended. When you're done touring the castle, don't miss a visit to the elephant seal rookery nearby. It's a scene right out of National Geographic. Tip: Hearst Castle has two restaurants at the Visitor Center, selling a variety of burgers, wraps and sandwiches. Fresh pastries, ice creams, tea and cappuccinos are sold at the espresso bar. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her travel guide to the San Simeon Elephant Seals rookery and viewpoint in this episode of "California Travel Tips." After you've made the obligatory stop at the amazing and beautiful Hearst Castle, travel about 7 miles north on Highway 1 until you see the sign for the elephant seal rookery. This vista point is one of the best spots to view elephant seals on the West coast, and they come and go year-round. For a special treat, come in January, when the babies are being born. Docents are here daily to answer questions and prevent the seals (and curious humans) from harming each other. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel guide Veronica Hill shares a tour of Balboa Island, Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach in this episode of California Travel Tips. This charming little island, located in the city of Newport Beach, is a Cape Cod-style community with more than 70 unique gift shops, galleries and restaurants. Best seen by foot, Balboa Island's streets (view map) offer stunning views of multi-million-dollar homes, the bay and harbor. On Marine Avenue, the island's main street, you'll find several wonderful cafes, including Amelia's Ristorante (949-673-6580), Wilma's Patio (949-675-5542) and The Village Inn (127 Marine Avenue, Balboa Island; 949-675-8300). Hershey's Market (200 Marine Ave., Balboa Island; 949- 673-0330) has been a staple since 1929. Though it was once home to Western legend John Wayne and his beloved Wild Goose, Balboa's main claim to fame is its famous Balboa Bars and frozen bananas, invented here around 1945. These cool concoctions are dipped in chocolate and then smothered in crushed peanuts or chocolate sprinkles. Try them at Sugar & Spice (310 Marine Avenue; 949-673-8907), which has autographs of "The OC" cast members posted on its window. Tip: Balboa Island is accessible by ferry from Palm Street at Balboa Peninsula, and by car from Jamboree Road at Pacific Coast Highway. From the island, catch the ferry back to Newport Beach at Agate Avenue. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares an Olvera Street travel guide in this episode of California Travel Tips. This festive Mexican marketplace, located right across the street from Union Station, makes a wonderful day trip. Considered the birthplace of Los Angeles, the area dates back to Sept. 4, 1781 when 11 Mexican families from Los Alamos founded a pueblo here. Today, Olvera Street is home to 27 original buildings, including the 1870 Pico House — once the Southwest's grandest hotel. Don't miss the free tours of Avila Adobe, built in 1818. This is the oldest standing residence in Los Angeles, furnished with period pieces from the 1840s. It was also the home of Christine Sterling, who developed the marketplace during the 1930s. Sepulveda House, built in 1887, now serves as the visitors center. Here, you can view an 1890s boarding house kitchen, watch a short film, or sign up for the free 50-minute historic walking tours. One of the biggest highlights on Olvera Street is the food. Some of the best restaurants are Cielito Lindo (213-687-4391), known for their beef taquitos drenched in avocado sauce, and La Noche Buena (213-628-2078), where you can dig in to authentic street tacos stuffed with carne asada. For a more upscale Mexican menu, enjoy a margarita and mole poblano at La Golondrina (213-628-4349). Open since 1930, this was the first true Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her Los Angeles Chinatown Travel Guide in this episode of California Travel Tips. Located along Broadway and Hill streets, L.A.'s Chinatown district is home to more than 15,000 residents. It's located just a short walk from Union Station and Olvera Street, so you can easily hit both attractions in the same day. For the most touristy experience, head to Central Plaza, where you can enjoy kung fu performances by the Shaolin Monks on the first and third Sunday of each month. Gin Ling Way, named for the street of golden treasures in Peking, is colorful mix of Chinese restaurants, fortune tellers, art galleries and amusements. Check out the colorful dragon mural painted by Tyrus Wong, then throw a coin for luck at the Seven Star Sacred Caverns wishing pool. The five-tiered Hop Louie Pagoda was built in 1941. Plenty of good eats are found near Central Plaza. You can enjoy some fortune cookies and Boba tea at Wonder Bakery, nosh on slippery shrimp at Yang Chow, or dig in to some fresh dim sum at Empress Pavilion. Finish up with some strawberry whipped cream cake at Phoenix Bakery. The old Bruce Lee Martial Arts Studio, located at 628 W. College Street, was his third (and final) kung fu training academy in the United States. Tip: Join the "Undiscovered Chinatown Walking Tour" for an in-depth look at this historic district. The guided tours are offered the first Saturday of each month at $20 per person. Call (213) 680-0243. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares a guide to Calico Ghost Town in this episode of "California Travel Tips." Located in the dusty Mojave Desert — roughly 10 miles north of Barstow — Calico Ghost Town was named for the rainbow-colored hills that produced one of the richest silver strikes in California history. Home to 1,200 residents by 1887, this was a wild and woolly place — with 22 saloons, its own red light district and several fine restaurants. Today, Calico Ghost Town has five surviving original buildings: the Park Office, Lane's General Store, Lil's Saloon, and The Zenda Mining Company. Plan on a full day to explore. You can do a bit of gold panning; walk sideways in the Mystery Shack; take a ride on the Calico & Odessa Narrow Gauge Railway; or explore more than 1,000 feet of tunnel inside the Maggie Mine Shaft. Around lunch, grab a cold beer and burger at Old Miner's Cafe, or enjoy an old-fashioned sarsparilla at the Calico House Restaurant. Then, hike off your meal on the East Calico Hiking Trail, where you'll find unique cabins carved into the rocky hillsides. Calico produced more than $20 million in silver, and was deserted by the 1930s. Walter Knott (of Knott's Berry Farm fame) purchased the crumbling town in 1951 for $13,500, restoring it to its former glory. It is now run by the park service. Tips: Calico takes credit cards and there are several ATMs on site. You can stay the night in Calico's campgrounds or bunkhouse. The ghost town is located off I-15 en route to Las Vegas. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her guide to Amy's Farm in Ontario in this episode of California Travel Tips. One of a small batch of California farm tours, Amy's Farm specializes in tours for children, allowing them to bottle feed a Holstein calf, pet goats and pigs, and learn about organic gardening. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her travel guide to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco in this episode of California Travel Tips. In this Golden Gate Bridge Travel Guide you'll learn more about the Golden Gate Bridge's history and some interesting Golden Gate Bridge facts. LIKE ME ON FACEBOOK http://tinyurl.com/nqx9osq FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER https://twitter.com/Californiatips FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/californiatraveltips