The Ultimate Free California Road Trip
Some of California’s best treasures are free. With an abundance of unparalleled natural beauty, unique landmarks and one-of-a-kind attractions, you don’t have to spend a lot (or anything!) to see the best of the Golden State. Discover some must-do free or inexpensive experiences across the state that won’t break the bank.
Shasta Cascade
Adventures galore
Walk or rent bikes to cross the Sacramento River on the 700-foot architectural marvel of the Sundial Bridge, located at Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding. Nearby, you can also stroll through Paul Bunyan’s Forest Camp or relax in the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. A trip to the Shasta Cascade region wouldn’t be complete without visiting some of the area’s stunning waterfalls. With over 50 in the area, there is something for everyone ranging from easily accessible to more strenuous with spectacular payoff in Shasta, Siskiyou, Butte, Plumas, Tehama and Trinity County.
North Coast
Drive the Avenue of Giants in Humboldt County
Cruise this 31-mile stretch, which runs parallel to Highway 101 and is flanked by the enormous trees of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. But the exploration can go beyond the car: make a quick stop on the avenue to check-out the park’s loop trails that have views of some of the world’s tallest trees in the Rockefeller Forest.
San Francisco Bay Area
Bike along the Napa Valley Vine Trail
The Napa Valley Vine Trail runs from downtown Napa to Yountville, going straight through the heart of the valley. Open to both bikes and pedestrians, the trail is the perfect way to see wine country and the vines that put it on the map. Don’t forget to stop for a photo op at one of the two famous “Welcome to Napa Valley” signs.
Gold Country
Look at Past History in California’s Capitol
With its noble columns and stunning cupola, California’s State Capitol building in Sacramento looks like a mini replica of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Take a free tour to learn about the 1869 building’s architecture and history, or stroll through the adjacent 40-acre Capitol Park, where you can admire monuments and memorials that remind visitors of California’s history and natural beauty.
High Sierra
Swim in Tenaya Lake at Yosemite National Park
Dive into clear blue waters on a hot summer day, or simply admire the beautiful mountains from the shore at Tenaya Lake. Because of its free admission, its prime spots for picnicking and calm waters for safe swimming and canoeing, this lake deserves a spot on visitors’ next Yosemite trip.
Central Valley
See Endangered Species
Wind Wolves Preserve, just outside Bakersfield, offers over 30,000 acres of wild terrain and rare wildlife. Free to hike or camp, this nature conservancy site is home to the endangered San Joaquin kit fox, California condors and sweeping wildflower fields in spring. Don’t miss the El Camino Viejo Trail.
Central Coast
Stroll through Solvang
Wandering this Danish-style village in the Santa Ynez Valley is an attraction in itself, immediately transporting visitors to the Old World. Solvang’s flower-lined streets are packed with windmills, historic buildings and free-to-enter attractions like the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art. Don’t forget to sample aebleskiver or peek into the old-style bakeries while you wander.
Los Angeles County
Visit the Santa Monica Pier
The iconic Santa Monica Pier blends beachside fun with nostalgic charm. Walk the boardwalk, watch street performers or take in ocean views — all for free. Bonus: The pier also hosts a small aquarium beneath its carousel that offers free educational events throughout the year.
Orange County
Hang Ten
A trip to Orange County wouldn’t be complete without catching a wave and hanging ten, or at least watching the pros do it! The Huntington Beach Pier is a great viewing spot to watch some of the best, but also perfect for beginners. In Dana Point, Doheny State Beach is a locals’ favorite, plus visitors can stop in the original Hobie Surf Shop.
Inland Empire
Big Entertainment in Big Bear
Stop by the Big Bear Discovery Center, the largest visitor center in the Big Bear Valley, for free entertainment throughout the year. Enjoy events like outdoor concerts, theater productions and nighttime interpretive programs in the Amphitheater. Make sure to take a dip in the lake before you leave!
Deserts
Attend a Star Party in the Desert
The Astronomical Society of the Desert invites everyone to experience dark-sky wonders during their monthly star parties outside of Palm Desert. Held in locations with minimal light pollution, these events include telescopes, sky tours and expert insights — all free of charge.
San Diego County Explore Balboa Park
A cultural oasis with an incredible 65 miles of trails and 18 museums, there’s no shortage of free things to explore in San Diego’s Balboa Park. Walking loops range from 1.5 to 6.6 miles, with some favorites being the accessible Palm Canyon and the more strenuous Sixth and Upas Trails Gateway. Outside of the scenic trails, other free offerings in the park include the Timken Museum of Art, Botanical Building and House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. Finally, The Spreckels Organ Pavilion also hosts a Twilight in the Park summer concert series, with free organ concerts every Sunday.
