The state of California is the most populous in America and also among the most visited. From its bustling cities to its vast stretches of natural wilderness, California is a diverse and exciting place to visit. However, as with any major tourist destination, California can be expensive. For travelers on a budget, there are several cheap California weekend getaways that are not to be missed.
Yosemite National Park is one of the most well-known parks in the federal National Parks System. Located in central California's Sierra Nevada Mountains, it is home to untouched natural vistas and wildlife such as the mule deer and American black bear. Most of Yosemite is undeveloped, so the hiking, birdwatching, photography and relaxation opportunities are all free of charge. The National Parks Service operates a free shuttle bus throughout the park, and hotels and motels just outside the park's boundaries offer economical accommodations within a short distance of all Yosemite has to offer.
Despite its status as a center for show business and home to the cultural elite, the city of Los Angeles is full of free and inexpensive activities. If you're visiting another part of the state, plan a weekend in L.A. without the pricey Hollywood or Beverly Hills shopping tours. Instead, visit sites such as the California Science Center, the Hollywood Bowl Museum and Griffith Observatory, all of which offer free admission. Other free L.A. activities including soaking up the sun at public beaches like Venice and Santa Monica or hiking in Griffith Park near the famous Hollywood sign. Many low-cost dining and hotel options can be found in suburban San Fernando valley, just a few miles from these activities.
The Angeles National Forrest is another inexpensive California getaway. Unlike Yosemite, which doesn't allow guests to stay overnight in the park, the Angeles National Forrest includes several recreation areas and campgrounds, ranging from undeveloped tent sites to privately-managed facilities for RV and trailer camping. The park includes mountain terrain for hiking, ponds and lakes for swimming and diverse wildlife that can't be found at lower elevations, including bears and deer. The Angeles National Forrest is just northeast of the Los Angeles metro region, making it easily accessible from elsewhere in the state via the 101 and 5 freeways.
