Things-to-do-California

10 Things To Do In California

On our 3 month USA Road Trip we drove through 11 states with a van and at the end we realized how much we love California! Driving down the highway 1 was such a great time and we created unforgettable memories. You all should know about these 10 things to do in California before planning your next vacation!

Today we want to tell you about our Californian Highlights

10 Things to Do in California

1 Drive the highway 1

Driving down the Highway was so amazing. We stopped at a lot of calm and beautiful beaches on the road. We enjoyed that it was not crowded like the touristy places.

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2 Relax on the beaches in San Diego

San Diego is one of our favorite cities in the world! We had great beach days at PB and the weather was always perfect. We can't wait to be back there!

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3 Enjoy the beauty of nature in the Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is probably one of the best national park in the world. It is fun to go hiking and enjoy the good air in the nature.

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5 Go to a Baseball Game

I went to my first Baseball Game a couple of month ago and it was really exciting. We had a lot of fun watching the LA Dodgers win!

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5 Eat delicious mexican food on Taco Tuesday

You will get the best mexican food in California. On Tuesdays most of the mexican restaurants have a special called Taco Tuesday and they sell tacos really cheap. I love the free chips and salsa and the delicious food.

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6 Cross the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

San Francisco is a beautiful city and we had so much fun there. We will never forget crossing the Golden Gate Bridge after our photo stop there :)

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7 Watch a stunning sunset

My favorite sunset was in San Clemente! We love watching sunsets and the sunsets in Cali are breathtaking...

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8 Drive a bike at the beach

We drove our bikes in San Clemente at the beach as well as at a lot of other Californian beaches. It is so much fun to be right at the ocean and feel the breeze.

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9 Go to a nice shopping mall

California has really nice shopping malls and good prices. Don't miss out on this opportunity!

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10 Get the best burger and fries at In'n'out

In'n'out has really delicious and fresh burgers! If you want to eat something really fast, In'n'out is the best place. I like that the potatoes are cut right in front of your eyes.

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From Germany To Los Angeles - Winter Destination

Hey open mind travelers,

last friday we escaped the cold german weather and arrived safely in Los Angeles. We are happy to spend a few more sunny weeks in Los Angeles - Winter Destination 

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Los Angeles - Winter Destination

October and November are really the worst month for us in Germany because we can’t stand the rainy days. 

Jeremy found super cheap flights from Frankfurt to Los Angeles, so we are extending our summer for 6 more weeks in the sunny state of California. Los Angeles is a perfect Winter Destination, the Californian weather is always great!

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We will head back in December to visit the famous German Christmas Markets and spend Christmas with my family in Germany!

So be ready for more great content on openmindtravelers.com!

Upcoming blog posts

In the next blog posts I am going to tell you all the secrets of how to travel cheap to different countries and which apps and websites to use to find the best deals!

We really love to see all of you guys traveling around the world and inspiring us and others to explore new countries!

Traveling is about opening your mind and heart to new people and different cultures! Try new things you never heard of before and you will grow every day! Step out of your comfort zone!

Have you ever heard of jellyfish salad? We tried it in Vietnam and it tasts amazing!  

Jeremy's Vlogs

Jeremy is going to make a video every day in the next weeks to let you be part of our adventures here in California!

Please subscribe to our YouTube Channel and watch the first episodes 

Find A Great Hotel in the Top Winter Destination - Los Angeles

 



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USA Road Trip

Hey guys,

we are starting our USA Road Trip tonight and we are so excited to see more beautiful destinations in America.

While i was still in Germany, Jeremy bought an awesome Dodge Van 2 month ago, we remodeled it and now we are ready to travel the world again :) I can't wait to be on the road again!

Jeremy changed the floor in the Van, installed great led lights, made us a nice bed and i was responsible for the decoration :) So we went to IKEA to give it the final look.

The Van is so perfect. Jeremy did such a gread job with picking this one! We have everything we need in there: a nice bed, we bought stuff to cook in here and we are so happy to live with less!

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Our first destinations will be a city on our way to San Diego! We are planning everything as we go!

Help us make our trip special and comment any ideas of good places in the US below.

Follow us on Instagram for daily updates and travel photos of our USA Road Trip :)


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Heart Rock Falls - Valentines Day Adventure

Hey fellas, Valentine’s Day is here and if you have a significant other but haven’t made plans for Valentines Day yet, you’re in luck. Heart Rock Falls is the perfect last minute Valentine’s Day Adventure.

Heart Rock Falls - Crestline California

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Southern California is a great place to be if you are someone who enjoys the outdoors. You don’t have to look far to find beautiful landscapes and clear skies. However, living in such a beautiful place of the world you are likely to run into some pretty heavy traffic on some of the more popular hiking trails. Which is why I have the perfect hiking trail for you this Valentine’s Day weekend.

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Heart Rock Falls, also known as Seeley Creek Falls, is one of Southern California’s best-kept secrets. Heart Rock Falls got its name because at the end of the trail is a 20 foot waterfall that is next to a large rock that is hollowed out in the shape of a heart.

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The hike itself is only about a half mile long and the trail is mostly flat. I recommend this hike for everyone, any age and any level of fitness.

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The past few years Southern California has experienced major drought which affect the flow of the streams and the waterfall. However recently the San Bernardino Mountains have gotten quite a lot of rain, which has helped bring this area back to life.

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On my hike I had the privilege of meeting Marisa. Marisa works for the San Bernardino County Forestry and her job is to make sure that our parks and trails are protected and maintained. Marisa is passionate about her job, which has inspired her to lead a local hiking group in the area called Hiking With Friends. Hiking With Friends is a growing community group with over 3,800 members who meet regularly to explore hiking trails all over Southern California. Hiking With Friends is leading an event at Heart Rock Falls this Sunday February 14th and she was preparing the site for the Valentine’s Day Weekend. Unfortunately, over the yeas Heat Rock Falls was vandalized with graffiti but thanks to Marisa Heart Rock Falls has been restored to its natural look and ready for the weekend.

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I’m so happy I got to visit Heart Rock Falls and I look forward to coming back soon.


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Miami

Miami is what I imagine to be the typical spring break destination. Miami is famous for its picturesque beaches, warm weather and wild parties.

Sightseeing Miami

Clevelander

The Clevelander is a very nice day club on Ocean Drive in South Beach. Equipped with two pools, a stage, and 3 bars this place is ready to go off at anytime of the day. If you are just getting into town with some friends the Clevelander is a great place to start your trip off right.

Everglades National Park

If you are looking for a break from the wild parties in Miami Beach you can check out some wild animals the Everglades National Park. The Everglades are home to the American Crocodile, the Florida Panther and many other endangered species.

Miami Marlins

The first Major League Baseball Stadium to house a full club with a DJ booth, full bar, and dance floor.

South Beach

If you come to South Beach you have to walk down Ocean Drive. It will probably be one of most entertaining walks you ever take. You will see everything from quarter million dollar cars to the occasional pro athlete. Ocean Drive is just over a mile long with hotels, restaurants, and day clubs on one side and beach on the other.

Delicious Food in Miami

  • Cuban Food: Miami has very close ties with Cuban culture so you can find Cuban restaurants everywhere.


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Seattle

There’s a Starbucks, and there’s Starbucks, and there’s another Starbucks. You can thank Seattle for that. But Seattle is famous for a lot more than just a great marketing and mediocre coffee. Seattle is the birthplace for some of America’s greatest musicians including Nirvana, Pearl Jam and the legendary Jimi Hendrix. This beautiful, rainy, hipster, pot smoking paradise is truly one of a kind.

Sightseeing Seattle

Space Needle: From the top floor of the Space Needle you have a great view over the entire city so make it one of your first visits and familiarize yourself with the landscape.

Century Link: You cant talk about Seattle without talking Seattle Sports. I have never witnessed a more loyal fan following than I did in Seattle. Whether you visit “The Hawks”, “The Mariners”, “The Zags”, “Wazzo” or “U Dub” you are in for a treat. “The Link” however, is the loudest of all venues in Washington and in America, if you ask a Seattleite.

Pioneer Square: Pioneer Square, also known as the old city center, is the site of the first settlement in 1852. Walk on cobblestone roads and check out some of the classic red brick buildings. Pioneer Square is a must see when you are visiting Seattle.

Hing Hay Park: To say the least this is not your typical park but it would be cool if it was. Check out some interesting musical performances and cultural events. Even participate in some Tai Chi or play a game chess. If you want to pass on the Tai Chi you can always do the local thing and hit up a karaoke bar and drink bubble tea.

Port of Seattle: One of the cleanest ports I have ever been to. Check out Waterfront Park and Pier 66.

Delicious Food

Seafood: Try the seafood at the Port of Seattle

Accommodation in Seattle

Try AirBnB or Couchsurfing!


New York

The Empire State, the Concrete Jungle, and home to the new Freedom Tower, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Yankee Stadium. New York is easily one of the most popular destinations in the world. Famous for the bright lights and 24/7 lifestyle it’s rightfully called the city that never sleeps.

Sightseeing New York

Twin Tower Monument: 9/11 happened when I was 7th grade. Unfortunately, I never got to opportunity to see the Twin Towers in person. I visited the site on my trip to New York in 2011. The monument is very meaningful and incredibly moving. It was a very important experience for me as an American. It’s a must visit if you are in New York.

Statue of Liberty: The Statue of Liberty is typical tourist attraction in New York but a must see if you are visiting for the first time.

The Freedom Tower: The Freedom Tower is said to take the place of the fallen Twin Towers. I had the opportunity to see the Tower during its construction but it was since been completed. Check out this magnificent building that towers above the world famous New York Skyline.

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge: Walk the Brooklyn Bridge and have a great view of the city.

Times Square: Just go there. If you’re wandering the streets of lower Manhattan you will probably stumble upon it anyway. Take your little selfy at Time Square and move on.

See the Empire State Building: Still tallest Building in New York. Take the Elevator to the top floor and get a birds eye view of the New York Skyline, one of the most famous skylines in the world.

Visit Central Park: Central Park is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple. Walk one of the many trails through the park that covers more than 40 blocks. It’s easy to spend hours in this massive park. Durring the summer months you can even catch a free concert and possibly a theater production.

Staten Island Ferry: If you want to see the Statue of Liberty but want to avoid taking the 2 hour + tour, take the Staten Island Ferry and get a great view of the famous Statue of Liberty.

Delicious Food in NYC

Street Food: If you eat at restaurants for every meal you are sure to burn a hole in your pocket pretty quick. Street Food will save you a lot of money and its very delicious.

Hotels in New York

Hotels in any of the city centers are very nice but incredibly expensive so if you are on a budget, check out some other options like Couchsurfing or Air BnB.

Transportation in NYC

  • Don’t take a Taxi. WALK its Faster.
  • Subway


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Boston

I truly believe that you can’t experience the real America without visiting Boston. Boston is one of America’s most incredible cities and the people of Boston are just as amazing. They’re strong, hard working, passionate, and not always politically correct but real nonetheless. Don’t mistake their boldness for arrogance because Bostonians are some of the most helpful people and they are just as excited to show you their city as you are excited to see it. The first question I ask someone who tells me that they have been to Boston is, “have you been to a Red Sox game?” “Did you sing ‘Sweet Caroline’ in the middle of the 8th inning?” If you did, and you felt what I felt when I sang that beautiful song at Fenway Park in front of the Green Monster you know what I’m talking about. Boston is one of the cities where I don’t care about looking like a tourist; I go all out. I take the duck tours, I visit the breweries, and once I’ve worked up an appetite I treat myself to one of Boston’s delicious lobster rolls. You can’t beat it!

Sightseeing Boston

Visit Fenway Park

I could write several pages about this ballpark but I will spare you guys and just highlight the things you should know.

Built in 1912, Fenway Park is one of America’s oldest ballparks and home to the famous Big Green Monster. (For those of you who don’t now what I mean when I mention a Green Monster at Fenway. No, it’s not literally a big green monster. It’s a big green wall that was put up in left field to increase the difficulty of hitting a homerun.) If you want to learn a little bit about America’s Greatest Pastime, Fenway Park is a great place to do it. Fenway still maintains many if its old traditions including the singing of Neal Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” in the middle of the 8th inning. Fenway also offers tours of the park, which I would recommend to anyone whether you are a long time fan or a first timer. Check the website for more information but the prices are very reasonable and the tour is worth every penny.

Walk Boston’s Freedom Trail

On a nice day the Freedom Trail is a must. Put on a pair of comfortable shoes, grab a camera and some snacks and follow the 2.5 mile route that will lead you through some of Boston’s must see historical sites.

Visit Bunker Hill Monument

It’s about 250 steps to the top of the Bunker Hill Monument but it’s well worth the effort. Once you reach the top you will have the best view of the Boston skyline.

Sam Adams Brewery

Take a tour of the entire brewery or stop in for a fresh beer right from the tap. Visit the website for more information.

Faneuil Hall

Faneuil Hall is a hot spot for locals. Go shopping, have a drink at an Irish pub and make sure you eat at the Quincy Market.

Harvard

Harvard University was the first established school in America. The University offers tours of the campus and its historical halls. If you visit Harvard on school day, enjoy the atmosphere but please be respectful of students who are working hard.

Delicious Food in Boston

Lobster Roll: The Lobster Roll is Boston’s most famous sandwich and a must try if you are in Boston. If you are looking for a traditional Boston Lobster Roll the people at the Sam Adams Brewery can recommend a very good restaurant that’s just around the corner.

Accommodation in Boston

Hotels in any of the city centers are great but can also be pricy so if you are on a budget, check out some other options like Couchsurfing or Air BnB.

Transportation in Boston

  • Taxi
  • Uber
  • Car2Go
  • Rent-a-bike


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San Diego

San Diego is one of my favorite places to be during the summer. The days are long and warm and the water is always the perfect temperature. The food in San Diego is delicious and whether you order nachos at a sports bar or a steak at Ruth’s Chris, this place goes all out. The beaches here are incredible and hot spot for locals and tourists alike so grab a towel and sunscreen and check out some of the best beaches in California.

Places to see in San Diego

  • Hike Torre Pines: Some of the best views in San Diego. Hike to one of the many look out points on this trail and get a birds eye view of one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
  • Coronado Island: A trip to Coronado Island is a great way to spend a day in San Diego. Drive over the Coronado Bridge and have a great view of downtown skyline. Visit the historic Hotel Del and see where past US presidents have stayed on visits to San Diego.
  • Old Town San Diego: If you are looking for Authentic Mexican food, Street shopping and a touch of history, Old town is the perfect place. If you are in San Diego for Cinco de Mayo or Halloween be sure to check out the festivals going on here. Don’t miss out on a trip to Old Town.
  • Pacific Beach: One of my favorite beach cities in California. PB really knows how to have fun. Garnett Avenue is one of the main streets in Pacific Beach and it is lined with restaurants, bars, shops, you name it! Everyone here is here for a good time so grab a beer, catch a game and mingle with the day faders!

 

Delicious Food in San Diego

  • Oscars- Oscars is of my favorite hole in the wall restaurants in San Diego. The seafood is fresh so try the fish tacos. You wont regret it!
  • The Crab Catcher: This place has a great location right next to La Jolla Cove. Try and get a seat by the window or in the outdoor patio for a view of the Cove. This place serves great seafood but if you’re not in the mood for fish order the pizza here, its great!

Transportation

  • Uber & Lyft
  • Coaster
  • Metro


Los Angeles Venice Beach

Los Angeles

Out of all of the cities I’ve visited in the world I have to say it’s difficult to beat a perfect day in LA. The sun, the beach, great food, and entertainment what else is there? I’m sure you’ve probably heard of Hollywood and hopefully the famed Santa Monica Boulevard but I’d like to cover a few other great places that maybe you haven’t heard of.

Places to see in Los Angeles

  • Venice Beach- Received its name from tobacco millionaire Abbot Kinney whose goal it was to construct a Venetian style city on the beach complete with beautiful canals resembling the canals of Venice, Italy. Today, Venice Beach is better known for attractions such as muscle beach, where Arnold Schwarzenegger began his movie career, and the Venice Skate Park, where you can watch skaters from all over the world demo their incredible talents. Don’t miss out on this unique beach city and feel free to wander the neighborhoods in search of the famous Venice canals, one of Los Angeles’s best-kept secrets.
  • Santa Monica Pier- Located directly on the pier is a fantastic amusement park with rides carnival games to check out. During the summer bands from all over the world come here to perform. The fairs wheel is a must if you are visiting because if offers you the best views of the coastline. Still my favorite thing to do here is to grab coffee or a smoothie and watch the surfers from the pier during sunset.
  • Go Shopping: There are so many different representations of style in this city and all at fair prices. If you consider yourself a shopaholic, the city shopping district could quite possibly be your kryptonite. Here are a few suggestions of places to check out:
    • The Grove
    • The Beverly Center
    • Third Street Promenade

Delicious Food in Los Angeles

  • Tito’s Tacos: No, this not your ordinary Mexican joint but the food here sure is delicious. I don’t think I have ever been to this restaurant without having to stand in line with at least 20 other people. In spite of the high demand, surprisingly I have never had to wait longer than 15-20 minutes for my order so don’t let the lines scare you away. They have a small menu but if you can’t decide just get one of everything. I’m serious! Don’t forget the GUAC!
  • Diddy Reese- Probably the most famous ice cream shop in Los Angeles. On a typical night this place has a line wrapped around the block with tourists and locals (mostly UCLA students) alike waiting sometimes up to an hour in line to satisfy their sweet tooth.
  • First Friday – On the first Friday of every month, food trucks swarm the street of Abbot Kinney in Venice. In case you were wondering, these are no ordinary food trucks. Most food trucks are known for serving ok food known as beer soakers but these trucks serve delicious food at good prices. Try the Kogi BBQ Truck it’s the best!
  • InNout- If you have never been to an InNout in your life you are seriously missing out. I don’t know what it is about this burger joint that sets it apart from the other burger joints of the world but this place is truly remarkable. “Number one with grilled onions, animal fries, extra spread and a lemonade,” you can’t beat it.

Accommodations in Los Angeles

  • Custom Hotel: It’s definitely not the Ritz-Carlton but this place has one very important quality, a fantastic location. If you want to be centrally located and in close proximity to some of the best beaches for under $100 the Custom Hotel is a great choice. From the Custom hotel you are approximately 20 minutes from everything on the Westside and in a city notorious for traffic, location is extremely important.

Transportation

  • Uber
  • Lyft
  • Rent a Car: Drive on the 405 and get caught in rush hour traffic and feel what its like to be a local.