More Than Movies: Fun Things to Do Near Universal Studios

Wondering what’s near Universal Studios? We’ve got your L.A. fun covered.

Published: May 22, 2026
Friends at Universal Studios Los Angeles

So, you’re visiting Universal Studios Hollywood—ready for mind-blowing rides, epic sets, and maybe even a Butterbeer or two? Us too! But plot twist: the excitement doesn’t stop at the theme park gates. Universal’s flashy neighborhoood is packed with attractions, adventures and delicious bites that turn any day out into a blockbuster LA experience. Whether you want to get snap-happy on Hollywood Boulevard, roam art-packed museums, or feast alfresco in the California sun, your supporting cast of top-tier activities is right here. Let’s roll out the red carpet for a full Los Angeles adventure! 

Our top things to do near Universal Studios include: 

  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood 
  • The Hollywood Museum 
  • The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes 
  • Madame Tussauds Hollywood 
  • TCL Chinese Theatre Tour 
  • Griffith Observatory Tour 
  • Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour 
  • Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking 
  • Museum of Latin American Art 

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  

If you’re game for more Hollywood magic, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers a peek behind the curtain that’s perfect for film and TV lovers. The vibe here is super relaxed yet exciting as expert guides shuttle you around famous sets and soundstages where cinematic history is made daily. You can sip a Central Perk coffee on the Friends couch, explore the Batcave’s collection of Batmobiles, and see how blockbuster movies are brought to life. 

The blend of nostalgia and discovery on this tour is a real treat for all ages. There are interactive soundstage exhibits, a DC Universe zone, and plenty of places to snap photos destined for your Instagram. No two tours are quite the same, so you’ll always come away with new tales and fun celeb trivia. For movie buffs, this behind-the-scenes look is truly an actor’s-eye view of Hollywood’s creative pulse. 

The Hollywood Museum  

Pop just a few blocks away from Universal and immerse yourself in glamorous Tinseltown history at the Hollywood Museum. Set inside the historic Max Factor Building, the displays here feel like you’re stepping onto a vintage soundstage. Think dazzling costumes, makeup rooms where legends like Marilyn Monroe and Lucille Ball prepped for camera, and walls lined with film memorabilia old and new. 

It’s not just about nostalgia—the four floors celebrate everything from classic noir to modern blockbusters. Peek at horror icons in the basement dungeon, or snap a selfie with costumes from James Bond and Star Wars. The collection is always rotating, so every visit feels freshly star-studded. If you love Hollywood’s golden age, there’s truly no better spot to dial up your movie trivia game. 

The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes

The Hollywood Sign

Ready for some fresh air? Lace up and take the Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour for a guided trek into L.A.’s picturesque hills. These guides are part storyteller, part comedian—they’ll share Hollywood’s juiciest tales while leading you toward the city’s most recognizable landmark. The route is one part scenic hike, one part Instagram dream, offering gorgeous panoramas over Los Angeles and beyond. 

You’ll pause for unbeatable photo ops beneath the sign, and there’s plenty of time to chat pop culture or swap stories with fellow hikers along the way. The group energy makes the climb super fun—plus, you’ll leave with both memories and a map of routes even locals sometimes miss. If you want exercise with a healthy side of Hollywood history, this hike is truly a must-do experience. 

Madame Tussauds Hollywood  

Starstruck? Madame Tussauds Hollywood is where you can meet life-sized versions of your favorite celebs—no red carpet pass required. The energy here is all about fun: you’ll pose with A-listers, belt out a tune with music legends, and even “walk” through iconic movie scenes, all thanks to the museum’s playful immersive settings. 

Snap silly selfies with superheroes, crack up with comedians, or set the scene in the Marvel or Star Wars experience zones. These waxworks are so detailed you’ll blink twice! The interactive exhibits are perfect for families, friends, or anyone eager to update their celebrity selfie collection. Bonus: it’s a cool escape from the L.A. sun and smack in the middle of Hollywood Boulevard’s buzz. 

TCL Chinese Theatre Tour  

Take a step into Hollywood’s glamorous past on a TCL Chinese Theatre Tour, just a short drive from Universal Studios. From the moment you see those famous handprints in the forecourt, it feels like you’ve entered an old-school movie premiere. The guides know their stuff and dish out fun facts about the theater’s history and architecture—including its wild movie star events. 

Peek inside the opulent main auditorium, marvel at Chinese-inspired decorative flourishes, and maybe even spot a red carpet setup for an upcoming premiere. You’ll hear about epic Hollywood legends and movie releases that rocked the world. For architecture geeks and movie buffs alike, there’s nothing quite like wandering these storied halls and learning backstage secrets in the shadow of the Walk of Fame. 

Griffith Observatory Tour  

For a view that stretches from downtown skyscrapers to the sparkling Pacific, venture up to the Griffith Observatory. The tour here gives you the full behind-the-scenes scoop on L.A.’s astronomical history, from massive telescopes to moon rock exhibits. The building itself is a 1930s art deco gem, and the vibe is friendly and curious—just the way we like it. 

You can peer through telescopes, watch fascinating shows in the planetarium, and experiment with hands-on displays about space and science. Outside, sweeping terraces promise one-of-a-kind shots of the Hollywood Sign and city lights below. Whether you’re a stargazer or just want killer views, this spot is pure L.A. adventure. 

Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour

Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour

Hop aboard the Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour for a breezy, star-filled glimpse of L.A.’s most fabulous neighborhoods. The mood is equal parts chill and “whoa, is that Beyoncé’s driveway?” as your guide steers you through Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip, and beyond. The double-decker bus gives you the best seat for spotting those famous mansions tucked behind towering gates. 

It’s not all glitz—the commentary is loaded with sassy tidbits, Hollywood history, and plenty of humor. There are even chances to see the odd reality TV hotspot or luxury boutique. It’s the perfect way to sightsee after a packed day at the parks, all without lifting a finger. Just sit back, enjoy the stories, and get your camera ready for a few surprise celeb sightings! 

Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  

Craving salty breezes and ocean views? Grab a bike and cruise along L.A.’s most beloved beaches with the Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour. Starting in sunny Santa Monica, you’ll coast down palm tree-lined paths, past vibrant Venice murals, Muscle Beach, and the world-famous pier. The guides keep things relaxed and upbeat, sprinkling the route with local trivia, history, and tales of SoCal legends. 

This tour is all about the good vibes: lots of photo stops, plenty of people-watching, and no rush whatsoever—just laidback LA at its finest. Whether you’re a cyclist or a total newbie, the flat paths and cool breezes make this the perfect way to recover from a day spent on thrill rides. Pack sunscreen, bring a smile, and soak up the sand and surf! 

Museum of Latin American Art  

Trade the Hollywood crowds for a colorful cultural escape at the Museum of Latin American Art. Just a short drive from Universal, MOLAA showcases vibrant works from artists across Mexico, Central America, and South America through striking paintings, bold sculptures, and interactive exhibits that spark conversation for all ages. Its bright, modern galleries and rotating exhibitions create a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diverse voices and creative expression. 

Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture garden, where larger-than-life installations make the perfect backdrop for a relaxing stroll or memorable photo. Depending on your timing, you might also catch a film screening or family-friendly workshop. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, MOLAA offers an inspiring and refreshingly different Southern California experience. 

 

So there you have it—adventures galore right on Universal Studios’ doorstep (or a quick spin away)! Whether you’re in the mood for Hollywood glitz, unforgettable hikes, star encounters, or artistic inspiration, Los Angeles serves up endless surprises. Make the most of your trip by mixing thrills and culture, and you’ll soon see why there’s no place quite like LA for rolling out your perfect day. 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do in Los Angeles in the Morning or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes 

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We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   

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Los Angeles Memorial Day Weekend

Summer in California is what dreams are made of, and there's a bevy of attractions just waiting for you. We've rounded up the best of the best, so you can focus on soaking up the sunshine.
Katie Sagal
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Planning Your Thursday in LA: Tours, Tastes, and More

Thursday in Los Angeles: the sweet spot of the week. The weekend crowds haven’t landed, the city buzzes with energy, and the best attractions are wide open for fun. Whether you’re craving action-packed adventures, fascinating tours, golden-hour relaxation, or a taste of that live-and-local LA scene, there’s no better day to jump in. Stick with us—today, you’ll get a tour through LA’s must-see highlights and charming local secrets, all perfectly suited to a Thursday. Ready for your best LA story yet? Let’s start planning.  Our favorite Thursday picks in LA include:  Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour  Natural History Museum  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Griffith Observatory Tour  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour  Madame Tussauds Hollywood  Aquarium of the Pacific  The Autry Museum of the American West  Late-night eats at Grand Central Market  Natural History Museum  LA’s dinosaurs, diamonds, and a dash of wonder  For a Thursday that mixes wow-factor displays and hands-on fun, head to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. We love this spot for its blend of classic grandeur—think dramatic marble halls and chandelier-lit rotundas—and always-changing, kid-at-heart exhibits. It’s just steps from downtown, making it easy to fit into your perfect day.  What makes this museum shine? Start with the Dinosaur Hall: a jaw-dropping collection of fossils, skeletons, and animatronic displays that make you feel like you’re in the middle of your own Jurassic adventure. The timeline here takes you from the tiniest feathered raptors to the towering T. rex—you might spot a family posing for that classic “roaring with dinosaurs” selfie.  But there’s so much more to see. Gems and minerals glitter in rainbow-hued galleries, dioramas re-create LA wildlife past and present, and the Discovery Center invites hands-on experimentation. We love the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion, where you can step inside a greenhouse and watch hundreds of butterflies flutter overhead (just try not to smile, we dare you).  The ambience is welcoming and bright, with plenty of quieter corners—ideal if you need a breather from the downtown bustle. The on-site café serves up great sandwiches and salads (grab a seat on their patio if the weather’s right), so you never have to rush. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or just your curiosity, the Natural History Museum plants a seed of LA magic to carry through your whole day.  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Science gets supersized in LA  After a morning of exploring, sometimes you just want to sit back and get swept up in something spectacular. The California Science Center’s IMAX Theater checks all the boxes. This isn’t your average movie theater—think a six-story screen, seats that seem to hum with anticipation, and jaw-dropping documentaries that make even everyday science feel like pure adventure.  The Science Center is already a hit for hands-on exhibits, from shuttle launches to aquarium tanks, but the IMAX experience is what leaves people wide-eyed. The schedule rotates through films on everything from volcanoes and deep-sea creatures to journeys inside the human brain—sometimes you’ll even find special releases tied to blockbuster sci-fi flicks. Our advice: check the listings ahead of time and pick whatever catches your eye. Trust us, even the most skeptical moviegoer will walk out having learned something new.  What stands out is the feeling of being completely immersed. The projection quality is razor-sharp, the sound system is next-level, and sitting among a crowd that collectively “whoas” at every twist makes it all the more fun.  Before or after your film, roam the Science Center’s galleries for a look at the space shuttle Endeavour, the World of Life exhibit, or some live ecosystem action in the Kelp Forest. It’s all included with your visit, making this spot a Thursday win for both education and sheer entertainment.  Griffith Observatory Tour  Starry skies, city lights, and cool science on the hill  No LA itinerary shines without a trip to Griffith Observatory, perched high above the city like its own beacon. Thursdays here strike that perfect balance: quieter crowds, dazzling views, and enough star power (the celestial kind included) to make even the sleepiest midweek morning feel electric.  Why does this place make the cut? Three reasons—killer views, interactive exhibits, and a chance to feel like an astronomer for the day. Walk through elegant Art Deco halls filled with telescopes, meteorites, and cosmic displays you can actually touch. The guides here know how to turn astrophysics into engaging stories, showing you everything from solar flares to the phases of the moon on giant glowing models.  It’s not all about the science, though. Step outside and you’ll see Los Angeles stretched out at your feet—the Hollywood Sign standing proud, the skyline rising in the distance, and the hiking trails of Griffith Park winding down the slopes. Thursday afternoons often mean golden hour on the terraces, with that famed LA light draping everything in a warm glow.  Evenings are a special treat: many Thursdays offer free public telescope viewings shortly before sunset. If you’re after a slice of LA that blends cinematic scenery, fascinating history, and actual views of the stars, this is your place.  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Your ticket to LA’s hottest selfie spot  Fancy a workout with some serious rewards? The Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes gets you up close—really close—to the world’s most recognizable hillside letters, all while sharing tales of Hollywood fame and city history. Thursdays bring smaller groups and cooler morning temperatures, making it an enjoyable way to trek the trails and still have plenty of energy left for the rest of your day.  Here’s what we love: guides lead you through picturesque Griffith Park, pointing out film locations and wildflowers along the way. They’ll pepper the journey with stories of the area’s golden-age movie days, with just enough trivia to keep even the sleepiest tourist entertained. The trail isn’t too intense, but it’ll wake you up!  The climax: that big reveal as the sign emerges from the chaparral. Snap your photos—your followers will thank you—and soak in views that sweep from downtown towers to Santa Monica’s beaches. The air feels fresh, the city looks endless, and you’re suddenly aware you’re having a quintessential LA moment.  After the hike wraps up, consider wandering into nearby Los Feliz for a celebratory smoothie at a neighborhood café, or stop by the Greek Theatre if a concert’s happening later. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Angeleno, this tour brings fresh energy to your Thursday.  Madame Tussauds Hollywood  Meet the stars (wax ones count, right?)  Maybe you’ve always wanted a selfie with Zendaya or want to see how you measure up to LeBron James. At Madame Tussauds Hollywood, you can wander from red carpet bash to music video set without ever leaving the heart of LA. Everything feels modern, fun, and surprisingly hands-on—Thursday vibes mean fewer lines and more time to perfect that pose.  The museum sits just off Hollywood Boulevard, so it’s easy to slot into a day of sightseeing. Walk among A-listers, villains, superheroes, and even classic movie monsters—all ridiculously lifelike, down to every eyelash. We can’t get enough of the interactive sets: leap onto a movie stunt bike, belt out a karaoke hit, or act out a scene with your childhood icons.  What makes Tussauds a Thursday win? It’s the pure, unfiltered fun and the creative photo ops you’ll take away (plus serious bragging rights when you send them home). Afterward, stroll next door to the TCL Chinese Theatre or tiptoe along the Walk of Fame, seeing which names tug your nostalgia strings. It’s playful, weirdly glamorous, and a total blast every single time.  Aquarium of the Pacific  Undersea wonders right in the city  For a touch of Zen and some serious undersea eye candy, chart a course to Long Beach and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Thursdays mean calmer galleries where you can slow down, watch jellyfish drift through neon-lit tanks, and laugh along as sea otters play in their massive pool.  The aquarium covers everything from frosty Arctic seas to tropical reefs, so you can wander from penguins to sharks with just a few steps. The setting is both peaceful and lively, with touch pools for kids and “ooh-aah” moments for everyone—the giant blue whale model in the main hall always impresses. Volunteers often share behind-the-scenes stories: how they care for rescued turtles, what it takes to feed a shark, and what mysterious creatures are hiding in deep sea caves.  The real treat? The outdoor decks, where the harbor comes alive with salty breezes and views of majestic ships drifting past. This isn’t just a break from city hustle; it’s a reminder of LA’s amazing natural world, even within spitting distance of downtown. Cap your visit with a seafood lunch overlooking the water—The Café Scuba offers the best harbor views.  The Autry Museum of the American West  All the stories (and legends) of Old LA  Step into the boots of explorers, cowboys, and Indigenous leaders at the Autry Museum—right inside leafy Griffith Park. This museum turns the Old West into a living, breathing part of LA’s present. Thursday is a sweet spot: you’ll mingle with art lovers and family groups, but there’s always space to pause in front of a stirring landscape painting or saddle up to try real historic gear.  Why does this spot matter? The Autry blends everything—film memorabilia, Native American art, frontier artifacts, and the stories that made Southern California what it is today. Don’t miss the galleries of classic Western movie posters (major nostalgia alert), or the fascinating displays on the Gold Rush, Route 66, and LA’s changing neighborhoods. There are hands-on stations for kids, so it’s never just “another museum.”  Many locals come simply for the café and garden, both of which offer leafy hideaways and, often, live music events or talks about Western lore. It’s right across from the LA Zoo, so animal lovers can turn their morning into a full Griffith Park adventure. We love how the Autry takes a genre often stuck in old clichés and shows how the true West was far more colorful, complicated, and vital than movies would have us believe.  Late-Night Eats at Grand Central Market  A whirlwind of flavors in one buzzing hall  After a full day of touring, biking, and bouncing from coast to downtown, you need something special to wrap up your Thursday. Grand Central Market, at the edge of Downtown LA, offers just that—a feast of colors, smells, and flavors in a turn-of-the-century hall that feels both old-school and ultra-modern at once.  Here, you can go classic Angeleno and grab egg sandwiches from Eggslut (bacon, gooey cheese, and house-made brioche—trust us, the line moves quick). Or sample Michelin-lauded Thai street food at Sticky Rice—just spicy enough to keep you lingering for seconds. Fancy a taco? Tacos Tumbras a Tomas serves L.A.-style carnitas that locals rave about. The range is mind-boggling: vegan ramen, Salvadoran pupusas, oyster bars, even gourmet PB&J.  The market stays open into the evening and draws everyone from late-working locals to camera-toting travelers. The setting is anything but stuffy—think neon lights, communal tables, and people-watching that rivals any outdoor street fair. Order a craft coffee from G&B, people-watch along Broadway, and savor one more bite before you call it a night.    Thursdays in Los Angeles mean options galore—from rolling movie-star style through Beverly Hills, to hiking up to the Hollywood Sign, biking sunlit beaches, getting hands-on with science, and capping it all with local eats in a Market older than most movie stars. Whether you’re a history buff, a pop culture fanatic, an adventurer, or a foodie, LA keeps Thursdays full of opportunity and excitement. So carve out that Thursday on your calendar, hop from landmark to legend, and find the city at its most welcoming. Your best LA stories start right here—happy exploring!    Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Picnic Spots in Los Angeles or Things to Do with Friends in Los Angeles    Step up your sightseeing with Go City®      We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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San Diego to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary - A California Vacation for Tons of Fun

There are so many amazing things to see and do in California that we know it can be overwhelming when planning out your vacation. That's where we come in! Our local experts put together a California road trip itinerary covering a ton of fun family attractions from San Diego to San Francisco! Best yet, visiting these attractions with Go City Cards will allow you to save up to 55% on attraction admission. Enjoy! This itinerary includes family favorite attractions like: SeaWorld® San Diego LEGOLAND® California Universal Studios Hollywood Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Aquarium of the Bay and more! You Can Save on Attraction Admission Admission to these top California attractions are available on our Passes. Go City Cards give you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose as you go from dozens of top attractions to create a vacation tailored to your family's interests. Remember, this California itinerary is just one of many ways to experience this beautiful region. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. LEGOLAND® California Upon entering the LEGO® world, you'll find an endless combinations of LEGO-related activities and fun for the whole family to share. At LEGOLAND California, there are more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions all along the themes of your favorite LEGO characters, games, and movies. The SEA LIFE® Aquarium in LEGOLAND is the home to more than 5,000 creatures that you can experience alongside your LEGO characters and friends. Don't forget about the LEGOLAND Water Park! This attraction offers more than 7 slides and other watery adventures to explore, and is a great family-oriented place that all ages will fully enjoy. NEW for Summer 2018 at LEGOLAND is the much-anticipated LEGO CITY: Deep Sea Adventure. This submarine-style ride sees you hunting for treasure alongside real sharks, rays, and fish. If you're lucky, you'll even get to see a shipwreck with LEGO divers! Getting In: LEGOLAND California tickets are included on the Go San Diego Card. Fun San Diego Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the San Diego area, including these activities, many of which are included on the Go San Diego Card. San Diego Zoo Safari Park - This sister attraction to the San Diego Zoo recreates a real African safari right outside the city. Pick a custom safari adventure for a specific journey, or take a trip around the park on the African Tram to see a little bit of everything! This park is a great experience for all ages and will transport you halfway across the world without getting on a plane. Belmont Park - This amazing beachfront amusement park offers endless fun for the whole family alongside a beautiful ocean view. From laser tag to countless rides to adventures in the waves, Belmont Park has an incredible amount of activities that will keep you busy all day long. More Time in Balboa Park - From museums to performances to restaurants to beautiful gardens, this Park has an incredible collection of exciting interesting and beautiful experiences. Many of the museums are also included with the Go San Diego Card, appealing to those interested in art, natural history, air & space, anthropology, and much more. Visit La Jolla - La Jolla, San Diego's jewel by the sea, is the most popular beach in California. This beautiful peninsula beach with spectacular views has many outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. This is a great destination with so much to do and a view that will take your breath away. Visit Torrey Pines - Torrey Pines is a natural state reserve located within the city limits of San Diego. It's comprised of 2,000 acres of preserved wilderness, untouched since the first development of the city. This expanse of wild land gives visitors an idea of what California must have looked like when it was first discovered by early settlers. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Hollywood brings you through one of the busiest movie studios in L.A. The tour includes the opportunity to visit several soundstages and backlots, as well as the exterior sets of classic Warner Bros. productions. Then, visit the interior of a current set and see what the team is working on at that moment and how the magic happens. Next, visit the Archived Exhibits of the preserved sets, costumes, and everything that went into some of the most famous movies. The tour will also include a visit to the Warner Bros. Prop Department (the largest in the world), as well as a visit to "Stage 48: Script to Stage" which will provide an interactive journey of how the creation process really happens. Getting In: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour This tour will bring you to the homes of 45 famous L.A. residents, while providing a glimpse into the lives of many of your favorite celebrities that you hear so much about. Your narrated trip, conducted in a comfortable air conditioned tour bus, reveals all the popular places celebrities can be found in the city. If you're lucky, you may spot more then just houses -- so bring your camera! This 3 hour experience is also a great opportunity to become more familiar with the layout of the city in a fun and exciting way. Getting In: Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Fun LA Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the Los Angeles area, including these activities, many of which are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. OUE Skyspace LA - The exhilarating OUE Skyspace in Los Angeles is the tallest open air observation deck in California and will give you a spectacular 360 degree view of the city from almost 1,000 feet above the streets. The deck is amazing both in the day and at night, so you can't really go wrong with a visit here. Other Great Theme Parks - If the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier wasn't enough for your thrill-seeking family, there are many other great theme park options in the area including: Six Flags Magic Mountain, Knott's Berry Farm, and Knott's Soak City Waterpark. All have great rides and games and everything you need for a day of complete and exciting family fun! Aquarium of the Pacific - Experience sea life up close through countless engaging exhibits. The incredible creatures of the sea will amaze the whole family, and you'll all learn more about the ocean and the organisms that live in it then you could have ever imagined. Sony Picture Studio Tour - This 2-hour guided walking tour of the Sony Picture Studio will allow you to visit historic sound stages and get to experience what a real working studio is like. Griffith Observatory - At this gateway to the sky, you will be able to look through the famous Griffith Observatory telescope, experience exhibits, see a live show and enjoy the incredible views of the city of L.A. and the famous Hollywood sign. Hop On Hop Off San Francisco Tour This easy and convenient bus tour is a great way to see a lot of the city and orient yourself quickly. Your guided adventure will take you through all the main parts of the city including Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, the Ferry Building, and so much more. The best part of this bus tour is its flexibility. If you see something that interests you, like the great shops in the Ferry Building, you can just hop off the bus, take your time looking around, and then catch another bus when you are ready to move on. This is a truly great way to see the city and experience all it has to offer. Getting In: Hop on Hop Off Big Bus San Francisco Tour tickets are included on the Go San Francisco Card. Fun San Fran Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the San Francisco area, including these activities, many of which included on the Go San Francisco Card or the Build Your Own Pass. Golden Gate Park - The Golden Gate Park is home to the de Young museum and the California Academy of Sciences and many more attractions. This beautiful park is made up of large grassy spaces (great for picnics), incredible gardens, lakes, museums, and more. Fisherman's Wharf - On Fisherman's Wharf you'll find lots of activity and excitement. From the street performers to the fresh seafood stands, there isn't a dull moment at this iconic place. Other Cruise Options (Escape From The Rock, Golden Gate Bay Cruise) - If you're interested in spending more time on the San Francisco Bay, there are other great cruise options. Some of these options include the Escape From the Rock boat trip (a trip to Alcatraz, the prison of the San Francisco coast) and the Golden Gate Bay Cruise (which will take you around the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge for great views and an unforgettable experience). Wine Country Tours - Wine Country Tours will take you outside the city of San Francisco and into the rolling hills of the surrounding country. On a Wine Country Tour, you will find yourself on a beautiful vineyard and with the opportunity to explore everything it has to offer. Blazing Saddles Bike Rental - Explore the city on your own time with a bike rental. One of the best ways to use this bike rental is to take a ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. At any of the Blazing Saddles Bike Rental locations, the employees will direct you to the fastest route to the Golden Gate Bridge. This unforgettable and thrilling experience will provide you with amazing views of the city and the bay. Let's Recap This California itinerary was designed to be a fun San Diego to San Francisco road trip packed full of the west coast's top attractions and things to do. Remember, many of these great attraction options and more are available on our California attractions pass options, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your California vacation itinerary!
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