Points of Interest between California City, California to Inglewood, California

picture of California City, California

Best Things to do on a Road Trip from California City, California and Inglewood, California

California is famous for its scenic views and picturesque landscapes, making it the perfect destination for a road trip. And if you're looking to explore some hidden gems along the way, the trip from California City to Inglewood has a lot to offer. This route is approximately 130 miles long and takes approximately two hours and twenty minutes (without traffic) to get from one city to another. One of the most exciting places for a pit stop is Acton, CA, a charming town that serves as the perfect halfway point for your journey.

Top Five Things to do:

1. Visit the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is a beautiful natural area that spans over 1,700 acres and is home to over seven miles of hiking trails. The reason to visit this area is because of the poppy bloom, a breathtaking sight of the poppies flowering in the park, creating a sea of orange poppies. According to park officials, the best time to see the bloom is between mid-March to mid-April. This area is a must-visit for nature lovers and those wanting to take a break from the city life.

2. Explore the Vasquez Rocks Natural Area

Another nature spot is the Vasquez Rocks, a unique natural area that was once frequented by robbers and bandits. Located just outside of Acton, CA, the Vasquez Rocks Natural Area is an out-of-this-world rock formation that offers a stunning natural backdrop that will transport you to a different world. The park itself boasts of nearly 1.5 miles of hiking trails through the rock formations, with various viewpoints that offer breathtaking views.

3. Discover the Gentle Barn Animal Sanctuary

For animal lovers, the Gentle Barn Animal Sanctuary in Santa Clarita should be on the top of their list. This 20-acre farm is home to over 150 animals ranging from horses, cows, chickens, pigs, goats, and more. Founded in 1999 by Ellie and Jay, the sanctuary is a non-profit that rescues and rehabilitates neglected and abused animals. Visitors can take guided tours, interact with the animals, and learn more about their heartwarming and inspiring stories.

4. Experience the Glory of Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is an iconic landmark in Los Angeles that has featured in many movies and TV shows. The main reason to visit the observatory is its stunning views of the city skyline and the Hollywood sign. Admission to the observatory is free, and visitors can explore the various exhibits and displays that showcase information about astronomy and space science. The observatory is also home to several telescopes, including the Zeiss refracting telescope, which is free to use for public viewing.

5. Stroll through Venice Beach

For a quintessential California experience, visitors must visit Venice Beach in Los Angeles. This iconic beach destination is famous for its vibrant boardwalk, street performers, quirky shops, and eclectic crowds. Visitors can walk along the boardwalk, shop for souvenirs, relax on the sandy beach, or even workout in Muscle Beach gym, where Arnold Schwarzenegger used to train. Venice is also known for its street art, with murals and graffiti that add to the cultural experience.

Interesting Facts:

  • The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is home to the most significant concentration of California poppies in the world.

  • The Vasquez Rocks' unique landscape and rock formations have featured in several movies and TV shows, including Star Trek and the Flintstones.

  • The Gentle Barn Animal Sanctuary has been featured in several publications, including National Geographic and The Ellen Show.

  • The Griffith Observatory is home to a Tesla Coil that generates three million volts of electricity in less than a second.

  • Venice Beach was initially designed to be like Venice, Italy, which explains the canals and the distinctly Italian-style architecture.

Conclusion:

The road trip from California City to Inglewood provides the perfect opportunity to explore the hidden gems that California has to offer. From nature reserves to animal sanctuaries, iconic landmarks, and cultural experiences, there is something for everyone. The trip makes for an excellent weekend getaway, and with stops along the way, it is easy to turn the journey into an adventure. This road trip takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes without traffic, but you'll need several days to see and experience everything that this journey has to offer.