As colder weather moves in across the eastern seaboard, countless Americans find themselves eager to prolong summer for just a bit longer. Fortunately, there’s one ideal opportunity for a last hurrah before it’s time to start breaking out the boots and winter gear: Labor Day weekend. And there’s perhaps no better place to celebrate than with a trip to Los Angeles. If you find yourself in the Golden State this Labor Day weekend, make sure to check out these must-see sights too.
Check out Hearst Castle
Located at the midpoint between Los Angeles and San Francisco, San Simeon’s Heart Castle is a must-see if you find yourself in California this Labor Day weekend. The former home of media magnate William Randolph Hearst, the stunning and massive estate, including a private ranch and multiple guest houses, was transformed into a California State Park in 1954 and has since welcomed millions of curious visitors on an annual basis.
Visit Redwood National Park
This northern California park is a must-see if you’re in the area this summer. Situated on a rambling 139,000 acres, this stunning forest, full of old-growth trees thousands upon thousands of years old, a visit to the park is truly like stepping back through time.
Visit the San Diego Zoo
Heralded by many as the best zoo in the country, the San Diego Zoo is well worth the trip if you find yourself in California. Home t0 3,700 animals of 650 different species, this 99-acre animal-lover’s paradise is one of the world’s most celebrated institutions for providing conservation and research for endangered and threatened species.
Explore Grand Hope Park
One of Los Angeles’ hidden gems, Grand Hope Park offers some much-needed green space in the center of the city. Completed in 1993, the 2.5-acre park, located in the city’s South Park neighborhood, is home to some of the city’s most stunning public art, including a fountain by Raul Guerrero, wildlife statues by Adrian Saxe, the park’s Halprin-designed Clock Tower, and pieces by artists including Lita Albuquerque, Gwynn Murrill, Ralph McIntosh, and Tony Berlant. The park just so happens to be surrounded by great art, as well: 888Hope, a gleaming Downtown tower from CIM Group, rises above the park, offering stunning views of its greenery, in addition to the city’s most iconic sights.
Take a walk over the Bay Bridge
If you trek up to San Francisco during your trip, make sure to take the time to check the walk over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. This bridge, which connects two of the Bay Area’s most vibrant cities, doesn’t harbor the crowds you’ll find on the Golden Gate Bridge, but does offer incredible views of the cities it joins. In addition to scenic views of the San Francisco Bay, the Bridge also offers views of some of San Francisco’s most beautiful buildings, including SoMa’s 181 Fremont, an ultra-tall mixed-use waterfront tower that will soon be home to Facebook’s Bay Area offices.
Make the most of the final days of summer by treating yourself and your family to an exciting California vacation. From coastal cities to ancient forests, there’s always something to explore in the Golden State, letting you create long-lasting memories you’ll always treasure.
