Situated on the West Coast of the United States, California is one of the largest states in the country. It also has one of the largest populations in the country.
Its cities have expanded considerably over the past few decades and they now form one of the most diverse communities in the US. California is also one of the most important states for economic growth in the country.
Here are its major cities.
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1. Los Angeles
Population – 3.9m
Los Angeles is the movie capital of the world. It has been home to Hollywood productions and some of the most marking movies in history. This is why you can’t overlook a visit to the Warner Bros Studios while in LA.
The National History Museum in LA also attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists. You can see all types of fossils here, many remembering the prehistoric era.
If you’re interested in sunbathing or in beach sports, you need to head to Venice Beach. This is the place that attracts more people than many other event halls such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall of the city.
But some people come to LA for shopping alone, especially those from the state of California. Rodeo Drive is an upscale area that offers quick access to some of the best shops in the state.
If you’re a sports fan, you can also stop at Dodger Stadium. Live baseball might be one of the city’s main sports, together with basketball.
But Los Angeles also has one of the largest airports in the country. LAX is a busy airport by any standards. It connects the West Coast and the US to the rest of the world. This is why you can also see the city as one of the main hubs to travel anywhere around the globe. Direct flights to Asia, Europe, and exotic islands make this airport and LA one of the main economic hubs of the US.
2. San Diego
Population – 1.4m
Embarcadero is San Diego’s walkable harbor. It’s one of the main attractions of a large city as many people aren’t willing to drive while on holiday. But the city is locally known for its role in the military.
You might even be interested in seeing the USS Midway Museum here if you want to learn more about the country’s military history.
3. San Jose
Population – 1.1m
San Jose is California’s third-largest city with a population of over 1 million. There are multiple reasons to visit this city from its excellent food to its many hidden gems. One of them is the Municipal Rose Garden.
But if you’re only interested in shopping, you can head over to the San Pedro Square Market which has been known as a top location for bargain hunting.
4. San Francisco
Population – 881.500
There are so many interesting things to do in San Francisco that it can take a lifetime to see them all. The iconic cable cars are found in this hilly city. But most tourists head straight to the Golden Gate Bridge. This historic bridge is one of the most popular in the state and even in the US.
But if you want a completely different visiting experience, you can head over to Alcatraz Island which was the imprisonment location of some of the country’s most notorious criminals.
5. Fresno
Population – 531.000
Fresno can feel a bit more relaxed even than Sacramento. Many people visit the city for its laid back atmosphere. Even downtown Fresno feels like you’re in a smaller city. The main attractions in Fresno are all tied to the outdoors. The Underground Gardens are found here.
The Fresno Zoo is an excellent outdoor facility where you can see all types of exotic animals. But if you simply want to relax at a picnic at Woodward Regional Park.
6. Sacramento
Population – 500.000
Sacramento is one of the most important cities in California for a high quality of life. It is also the home to a few campuses of the University of California. You can also consider it as a good shopping destination, especially if you love independent shops.
The city doesn’t have the high costs associated with San Diego or Los Angeles and it might also be a good destination for about a week, not only for a short city break.
7. Long Beach
Population – 462.000
If you love the California sun, Long Beach is one of the relaxed cities you can visit for fun at the beach. The downtown waterfront area is an excellent spot to walk and get to learn more about the city.
The large Aquarium of the Pacific is also found here. But Long Beach is known for its beautiful Catalina Island. This is the best place to book a boat and simply relax out on open waters.
8. Oakland
Population – 430.000
Oakland is one of the largest cities in California. It represents a valuable destination if you love animals, nature, shopping, and culture. If you want to see the urban side of Oakland, you need to stop at the Oakland Museum of California.
It has plenty of clubs you can join for events. But if you like nature in the middle of a city, you also need to stop by Lake Meritt. Jogging is a popular activity around this urban lake.
9. Bakersfield
Population – 384.000
The city of Bakersfield is California’s 9th largest city. It has a population of nearly 400.000 people although unofficial figures believe its population is higher.
The California Area Living Museum is the city’s main attraction, especially for those who love animals. Murray Family Farms is also allowing visitors. These farms have an interactive zone where you can pet animals.
10. Anaheim
Population – 350.000
The city of Anaheim is one of the best for budget-fun in California. It is the home of an incredible Disneyland.
This can be an excellent location for those traveling to the city with children.
If you’re into sports, you can also visit the Angel Stadium here. It is the home of baseball in the city.
