Bryan Shelmon, Staff Writer

Riverside sits as the crown jewel of California’s Inland Empire, proving that not all the best places to visit in California are located on the Pacific Coast. Trade in the picturesque, rugged coastline for this riverside haven set at the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. Here are 13 things to do in Riverside that you and your crew will love.

Carmel, or Carmel-by-the-Sea, is one of the most beautiful cities you’ll visit in California. It makes a great day trip from San Francisco at only a two-hour drive, or an excellent stop while traveling on the Pacific Coast Highway. Here are 15 things to do in Carmel that will immerse you into its artistic charm.

Surf culture. Picturesque views of the California coast. Artsy districts. Trendy restaurants and boutique shops. It’s easy to see how Laguna Beach embodies the Southern California lifestyle the moment you arrive. Ready to learn more? Here are 20 things to do in Laguna Beach that you’re going to want to check out!

The San Francisco Bay Area is one of California’s most historical, culturally-rich areas. But while San Francisco boasts a bustling tech and foodie scene, just across the bay sits the city of Oakland, offering its own unique perspective of the Bay area. Here are 18 things to do in Oakland that you need to add to your California bucket list!

Choosing between spending your day at the ‘Happiest Place on Earth,’ the paradise beaches on the Pacific Coast, or indulging in the modern SoCal culture are just a few of the first-world problems you’ll have when visiting Anaheim, CA. Here are 22 of the best things to do in Anaheim that we know you’ll love.