The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brisbane, California and Hayward, California
Brisbane and Hayward, two cities located in the San Francisco Bay Area, offer a great starting point for a road trip exploring Northern California. The trip route includes the famous Highway 1, which offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and charming towns along the coast. The halfway point is San Mateo, a city with a rich history and plenty of attractions. The trip is perfect for those looking to escape the bustling city life and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. In this article, we will highlight the top five things to do and see on this road trip and provide interesting facts about each location.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic landmark and a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to the Bay Area. This massive suspension bridge spans 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait and offers spectacular views of the bay and the San Francisco skyline. Visitors can walk, bike, or drive across the bridge and take in the stunning scenery. The bridge is open 24 hours a day, and admission is free. Visitors are advised to come early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Interesting fact:
The Golden Gate Bridge was completed in 1937 after four years of construction and cost $35 million to build. It is considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey
Located in Monterey, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the world. The aquarium has over 35,000 creatures in more than 550 species, including sea otters, jellyfish, and sharks. Visitors can learn about the marine life of the Monterey Bay through interactive exhibits and presentations. The aquarium is open every day of the year, and admission ranges from $30 to $50. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.
Interesting fact:
The aquarium is located on the site of a former sardine cannery, which was the largest in the world in the 1940s. The aquarium was opened in 1984 and has since become one of the signature attractions of Monterey.
Cannery Row, Monterey
Cannery Row is a historic street in Monterey that used to be home to numerous sardine canneries. The street was made famous by the American novelist John Steinbeck, who wrote a book of the same name. Today, Cannery Row is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can take a stroll along the street and explore the unique history of the area. The street is open every day, and admission is free.
Interesting fact:
Cannery Row was first established as a manufacturing district in the 1850s. It was a center for fish processing and canning until the collapse of the sardine industry in the 1950s.
Big Sur, California
Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of the Central Coast of California. The area is known for its stunning scenery, including towering cliffs and magnificent beaches. Visitors can explore the region by hiking one of the many trails or driving on the scenic Highway 1. The Big Sur coast stretches for 90 miles, and there are plenty of opportunities for camping, picnicking, and sightseeing.
Interesting fact:
Big Sur is home to the tallest bridge in the United States, the Bixby Creek Bridge. The bridge is 714 feet long and stands 280 feet above the canyon floor.
Hearst Castle, San Simeon
Hearst Castle is a historic mansion located on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The mansion was built by the American newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century and is now a national historic landmark. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and see the ornate architecture and stunning artwork. The castle is open every day except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Admission ranges from $25 to $36.
Interesting fact:
Hearst Castle features a 104-foot-long indoor swimming pool, which is decorated with 1-inch square tiles of gold leaf and colored glass.
The road trip from Brisbane to San Simeon and back takes approximately 12 hours if you want to visit all the above locations. The journey is around 400 miles one-way and takes you through some of the most beautiful countryside Northern California has to offer.
In conclusion, the road trip from Brisbane and Hayward, California to San Simeon and back is an amazing experience. There are a lot of things to see and do, from visiting the historic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to exploring the rugged beauty of Big Sur. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, this road trip has something for everyone. Just remember to bring a camera and a sense of adventure, and you'll enjoy an unforgettable trip.