California invites travelers to explore the Golden State this summer with fresh programming, events and new offerings across the state.
1 Hotel San Francisco © Aubrie Pick
New Hotels
Travelers will find several new hotels across California this season. In Palm Springs, The Paloma Resort opens this summer, offering 66 modern bungalows and suites nestled around a mission-style adobe and pool. San Francisco welcomes multiple additions: 1 Hotel San Francisco opens this month, featuring reclaimed wood, native greenery and organic design touches; LUMA Hotel San Francisco debuts this summer in Mission Bay with contemporary rooms and skyline views; and the historic Beacon Grand Hotel reopens June 30 after an extensive renovation that preserves the property’s classic architecture while introducing updated interiors.
© Birch Aquarium
Aquarium Offerings
Aquariums across the state are adding engaging experiences. Birch Aquarium in San Diego will open the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguin habitat on July 12, becoming the only aquarium in the western U.S. to exhibit Little Blue Penguins, the world’s smallest penguin species. In Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific recently introduced its Babies! Exhibition, which showcases young marine animals and offers visitors close-up encounters with baby sea otters, tiny sea jellies and color-changing baby cuttlefish.
© Allan Amato – Riverside Art Museum
California History
New cultural destinations highlight California’s rich history and art. The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture in Riverside is a collaboration between the Riverside Art Museum and collector Cheech Marin. Often called The Cheech, the center celebrates the social, cultural and political influence of Chicano art through rotating exhibitions and public programs. Meanwhile, Hearst Castle in San Luis Obispo has reopened after a two-year closure; visitors can take the Julia Morgan Tour to learn about the estate’s architecture and the pioneering work of Julia Morgan.