Los Angeles is a great city to be in, but whether you’re a local or a visitor, you may be considering your weekend getaway options to see more than just the glitz of LA. Each of the following items listed is all within driving distance from the city, making them easily accessible without having to do too much planning.
However, LA traffic can be hectic, so you need to avoid rush hour and driving via popular freeways during Fridays. According to the Barnes Firm, a team of Los Angeles car accident lawyers, traffic accidents during rush hour are common as people rush to their destination, and avoiding high-traffic areas like the 405 will save you time and plenty of headaches. With that in mind, here are a few places you can visit without a trip to their airport:
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating display of natural beauty. At sunset, the sun transforms the desert floor into a dazzling display of colors, and the park is known for its incredible stargazing opportunities, far away from light pollution. At the Keys Views viewing spot, you’ll find impressive views of the San Andreas Fault line, Coachella Valley, and the Salton Sea. You can also opt for a sound bath at the nearby dome-shaped Integration facility, where crystal quartz bowls are used to play music and cultivate healing, relaxing, and meditative visit.
San Diego
San Diego is often touted as one of the most beautiful cities in the country, and if you haven’t already visited, it’s worth a trip. What makes this city particularly unique is that it’s framed by stunning nature all around. From underwater coral reef parks to towering cliff sides and rolling vineyards, nature and adventure enthusiast will rejoice here.
This is a city that caters to all ages and interests. From family-fun adventures to places like the world-famous San Diego Zoo or the Legoland museum, to adrenaline activities like parasailing, you’ll never run out of things to do. San Diego also has an incredible craft beer scene, with dozens of sprawling breweries and tasting rooms to choose from.
Rosarito (Mexico)
Within three to four hours, you’ll be just over the border in Mexico, where you can explore the beach and food culture in another country. Rosarito is a popular weekend escape for Californians looking for something different. In addition to the beach, there are also plenty of options for shopping and nightlife. From art galleries to decadent lounges, there’s no shortage of options during the night and day. For a mini-adventure within a getaway, head over to Baja Studios, where scenes from the Titanic were shot.
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a mere two-hour drive from Los Angeles. In this region, gold enthusiasts will rejoice, as there are over 100 beautifully manicured golf courses to work with. The culinary arts scene is intense here, too, with plenty of award-winning restaurants to boot.
The area is also known for its link to the art of aviation; at the Palm Springs Air Museum, where you’ll find flyable airplanes from World War II and the Vietnam Wars. The museum was also rated as one of the top 20 air museums in the world by CNN. At the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, you can explore the best of two wildly different worlds as you ascend from the hot desert floor to the snow-capped capped mountain summit in just minutes.
Catalina Island
Just a ferry ride away, you’ll find Catalina Island, which offers beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and fun activities. Whether you prefer to be on the water or land, this is an island that’s got you covered. On the sea, go kayaking, diving, snorkeling, or parasailing. On land, hiking options abound with beautiful trails and family-friendly summits. There are also five ziplines that careen you through canyons and offer impressive views of the surrounding area.
