San Francisco: Day Trips

Hearst Castle Publisher William Randolph Hearst's 165-room estate is a magnificent sight. Explore the grounds, take a tour, and watch a documentary about the building’s construction. Four hours south of San Francisco, 750 Hearst Castle Rd.; 805-927-2093; www.hearstcastle.com
family | architecture | culture | history

Monterey Bay Aquarium Overlooking Monterey Bay from historic Cannery Row, this world-renowned, and top U.S. aquarium offers special events, animal exhibits, new animals and family activities. 2 hours and fifteen minutes south of San Francisco, 886 Cannery Row; 831-648-4800; www.montereybayaquarium.org
family | aquarium | wildlife | editor pick

Oakland A quick BART ride or drive across the Bay Bridge will deliver you to Berkeley (www.visitberkeley.com), the Oakland Museum of California (www.museumca.org), and the Dunsmuir House & Gardens Historic Estate (www.dunsmuir.org). 20-30 minutes east of San Francisco; www.oaklandnet.com
family | culture | culinary

Sacramento No, you won’t necessarily see The Governator, but California’s Capital is loaded with history, fantastic museums, beautiful architecture, high-end hotels and A-list restaurants. Under two hours east of San Francisco; www.cityofsacramento.org
family | architecture | culture | history

Santa Cruz This laid-back college town is loaded with funky shops, great restaurants, and surfers. Visit the boardwalk, the West Coast's last seaside amusement park, and the redwood forests of Roaring Camp Railroads (www.roaringcamp.com). Ninety minutes south of San Francisco; www.ci.santa-cruz.ca.us
beach | family | amusement park | culture

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Your stop for numerous thrill rides, as well as chances to feed animals, learn about nature and see numerous family-friendly shows. Forty-five minutes east of San Francisco, 1001 Fairgrounds Dr.; 707-644-4000; www.sixflags.com
family | amusement park | outdoors