From fabulous pizza at D'Amore's in Westwood to thrills at theme parks, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Southern California. Presented By USA Travel Magazine

Museums & More Next To UCLA In Westwood, California

California is filled with museums of every type, numerous art galleries and antique shops. Among the many museums of interest is the Hammer Museum, located in Westwood, California. Here we discovered world-class art and a mix of changing exhibits and weekly entertainment in the beautiful courtyard. Westwood, located next to UCLA, has several theaters, a variety of dining for all taste, and unique shops like the Secret Stash, which carries items featuring Jay and Silent Bob seen in several shows, including hit movie Dogma. Who knows, Jay and Silent Bob might even drop by while you're there.

Take A Bite Out Of Reality At Universal Studios

One of the newest attractions and a popular favorite among visitors to California is the New Fear Factor Show at Universal Studios Hollywood. Universal's sister park in Orlando, Florida also features this thrilling reality-based attraction. During the show guest are challenged to stunts similar to those which have made Fear Factor famous. Test your nerves and face your fear of slimy, wiggling snakes and other creatures. Take a bite out of your fears and try a handful of bugs or challenges your family and friends to attempt one of the popular stunts. With Universal's Fear Factor, (www.universalstudios.com) an exciting addition to both parks that draws you into the action, you'll have plenty of stories to tell when you get back home.

Santa Barbara, The Queen of the Missions Graceful Beauty

California's beautiful missions capture a piece of history and elegance of bygone days. Santa Barbara's Mission, founded in 1786 became the 10th Franciscan missions in California. Today, it remains a historic treasure representing Santa Barbara's Chumash Indian and Spanish heritage. Tour the mission or stroll through the rose gardens across the street where many historic structures remain, including an old Spanish grist mill and ruins of the pottery kiln. The Santa Barbara Mission is located at 2201 Laguna Street. Call 1-805-682-4713 for details or take a Virtual Tour (http://www.santabarbara.com/virtual_tour/mission) of the Mission.

Get Sideways in Santa Barbara

Fans of Fox Searchlight's award winning hit Sideways can imagine hearing the director call, "Action!" when they visit several onsite locations where the film was shot throughout Santa Barbara. This mature film follows two friends on a weekend journey through Santa Barbara's wine country. To enhance your own experience try one of the creative hotel and dining package that spotlights 18 of the film's locales and wineries in the area. Among the special visits is dining at Table #11 in the Hitching Post II where Miles and Jack enjoyed a meal.

Rancho San Marcos Golf Course

The Rancho San Marcos Golf Course offers Golfers a unique experience on the

Camping at Refugio State Beach

Refugio State Beach is the perfect place to pitch a tent and enjoy a scenic ocean view. Spend a weekend fishing, swimming, cruising the bike trail that connects with El Capitan or challenge your family & friends to a round of volleyball. A seasonal general store is available & the park is within a 1/2 to Santa Barbara & Buellton. Refugio State Beach is located between Gaviota & El Capitan on HWY 101. For more details call 1-805-968-1033 or visit the California Parks (http://www.parks.ca.gov) website.

Step back to the 1880's at the Spring Garden Social and Scavenger Hunt!

The Union Hotel & Victorian Mansion located not far from Santa Barbara host exciting annual events like the Spring Garden Social and Scavenger Hunt. Guests who attend are invited to slip into vintage 1880's and roam the grounds of the hotel. At the Spring Garden Social and Scavenger Hunt guests keep a sharp eye out search for hidden prizes in the hedge maze. Whenever you visit it's sure to be a trip to remember at the The Union Hotel & Victorian Mansion. The Union Hotel was once an 1880's stagecoach stop. Inside the Victorian Mansion, built in 1864, guests stay in one of six themed rooms. Unique additions like cannon coffee tables, an Egyptian mummy, a chariot, a 1956 Cadillac are among the surprises that greet guests upon arriving at the historic Bed and Breakfast.

The staff at the Union Hotel & Victorian Mansion (http://www.unionhotelvictmansion.com/index.shtml) also hosts groups gathering such as private dinner parties, Stagecoach Murder Mysteries, 1800's Historical Costume Balls, and dinner concerts. They can also help guests create their own dream wedding in true Old West style. For details on special events and reservations call 1-800-230-2744 or by email (unionhotel2003@aol.com). The Union Hotel & Victorian Mansion. located at 362 Bell Street in Los Alamos, California.

Visit 38 Nearby Wineries

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast delivered to your room before visiting one the wineries. For a festive getaway, join the Parties scheduled annually at the Union Hotel & Victorian Mansion. Whenever you visit the Union Hotel & Victorian Mansion you'll be greeted by a friendly staff, dine on delicious food, and enjoy special activities that draw guests back each year.
About the Author

Melody Schubert is a Editor and Travel Writer who looks for the intriguing & often overlooked destinations that express the heart of a region. She writes for print & online media, and may be contacted through USA Travel Magazine: www.usatravelmagazine.com or by mobile device at www.usatravelmagazine.com/m.html.