• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
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2. The Cable Car Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
The Cable Car Museum
© zhu difeng/stock.adobe.com

What you are reading: Free & Affordable Things to Do in California This Weekend


3. California State Capitol and Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
California State Capitol and Park
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4. Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge
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Best Tourist Attractions & Fun Stuff to See:


5. Coit Memorial Tower

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
Coit Memorial Tower
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6. Fort Bragg Glass Beach

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Fort Bragg Glass Beach
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You are reading: Free & Affordable Things to Do in California Near Me Today


7. The Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge
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8. Griffith Observatory

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
Griffith Observatory
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More to See for Adults, Romantic Couples and Families with Kids:


9. Jelly Belly Factory Tours

Tours in the Area
Jelly Belly Factory Tours
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10. Lake Merritt

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Lake Merritt
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Keep reading: Free & Affordable Things to Do in California Near My Location


11. Mission Trails Regional Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Mission Trails Regional Park
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12. Old Sacramento State Historic Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Old Sacramento State Historic Park
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Rainy Day Ideas:


13. The Palace of Fine Arts

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
The Palace of Fine Arts
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14. The Palm Springs Art Museum

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
The Palm Springs Art Museum
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15. Sacramento Museum Day

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
Sacramento Museum Day
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16. Taylor Guitars

Taylor Guitars
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17. The Getty Center

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
The Getty Center
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18. The Last Bookstore

Category: Shopping & Stuff
The Last Bookstore
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More: Free & Affordable Things to Do in California & How to Book Your Weekend Getaway


19. The Timken Museum of Art

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • What are some of California’s most vibrant cities?
    • California is home to several internationally-acclaimed cities, including:
      • Los Angeles
      • San Francisco
      • San Diego
  • Are there free-admission museums in California?
    • Yes! Many museums in California’s major cities offer free admission at select times throughout the month. Some permanently free museums include:
      • The Getty Center
      • Griffith Observatory
      • The museums and attractions of Old Sacramento State Historic Park
  • What are some unique natural attractions in California?
    • California offers many iconic natural areas, such as:
      • Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve – famous for its vibrant wildflower blooms and scenic hiking trails.
      • Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge – home to rare wildlife and stunning natural landscapes.
      • Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach – known for its unique shoreline covered in polished sea glass.
  • Can visitors walk across the Golden Gate Bridge for free?
    • Yes! The Golden Gate Bridge, the world’s most-photographed bridge, is open to pedestrians year-round for free.

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