College tours reimagined

California college towns transform campus visits into memorable getaways, pairing world-class universities with outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and local dining. From cycling through Davis to relaxing on the Central Coast, these destinations prove there’s plenty to explore after the campus tour ends.

San Francisco Bay Area

 

Santa Clara blends campus tours with Silicon Valley

Santa Clara is an ideal home base for touring four major Bay Area universities: Santa Clara University, Stanford University, UC Santa Cruz, and UC Berkeley. Between campus visits, families can dine at JOEY Valley Fair, Puesto, or the Donut Den. Attractions include California's Great America, the Intel Museum, Santa Clara Central Park, the de Saisset Museum, plus Levi's® Stadium. The city also offers premier shopping at Westfield Valley Fair and Santa Clara Square Marketplace, making it easy to turn a college tour into a full Silicon Valley getaway.

Central Valley

 

Chico delivers the classic college town

Centered around Chico State, Chico combines a lively college atmosphere with a walkable downtown full of local favorites like Madison Bear Garden, Burgers & Brew, and Woodstock's Pizza. Families can tour the university before exploring Bidwell Park, where Lower Park features Sycamore Pool and Upper Park offers scenic hiking trails and canyon views.

 

Davis rides beyond campus

Home to UC Davis, Davis pairs a nationally recognized university with one of the country's most bike-friendly communities. Families can tour campus before exploring more than 100 miles of bike paths, downtown cafés, breweries, boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants. Highlights include the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, the Teaching Nursery, the Davis Farmers Market, and the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame.

 

Central Coast

 

Camarillo pairs California State University Channel Islands with coastal charm

A visit to California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) is also an opportunity to experience Camarillo's small-town character and nearby Ventura County beaches. Families can explore Old Town's boutiques, cafés, breweries, public art, and farm-to-table dining before shopping at Camarillo Premium Outlets, home to more than 160 stores. 

 

Cal Poly connects coast and wine country

A visit to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo extends well beyond campus, with nearby Paso Robles and Pismo Beach offering hands-on experiences that complement the university's "Learn by Doing" philosophy. Families can explore tide pools, coastal dunes, and seasonal wildlife along the coast, then head inland for horseback riding, boutique shopping, and wine country adventures. Prospective Viticulture students can also gain firsthand insight into the industry through vineyard tours, blending labs, and barrel tastings at local wineries.

Los Angeles County

 

Santa Clarita connects colleges with adventure

Santa Clarita brings together three distinct campuses - The Master's University, College of the Canyons, and California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) - each offering unique academic programs. Beyond campus tours, families can hike local trails, ride roller coasters at Six Flags Magic Mountain, browse Old Town Newhall, or hop on the Metrolink for easy access to Los Angeles.

 

Westwood climbs beyond the UCLA tour

A University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) visit can include an active stop at Sender One Westwood, a premier indoor climbing gym offering bouldering, yoga, and fitness classes just minutes from campus. The 10,000-square-foot facility welcomes climbers of all skill levels and is part of a six-location network across Los Angeles and Orange County.

Orange County

 

Buena Park makes learning interactive

Buena Park combines hands-on history, science, and recreation for families visiting Southern California. At Knott's Berry Farm, guests can explore Ghost Town, visit a recreated 19th-century schoolhouse, pan for gold, and crack open geodes, while nearby Knott's Independence Hall recreates America's founding history. Additional stops include prehistoric exhibits at the Ralph B. Clark Regional Park Interpretive Center and sports experiences at HAX Batting Center and SG Golf.

 

Irvine extends UC Irvine into the outdoors

A University of California, Irvine campus tour is easily paired with outdoor adventures, local attractions, and global dining. Visitors can experience farm life at Tanaka Farms, hike or bike trails including Quail Hill, Shady Canyon, and Bommer Canyon, ride the Great Park Balloon, explore international cuisine at Diamond Jamboree, and shop at Irvine Spectrum Center.

Inland Empire

Redlands leads to Big Bear discovery

Pairing a University of Redlands visit with nearby Big Bear creates a college trip centered on outdoor learning and adventure. Families can explore forest ecology at the Big Bear Discovery Center, meet native wildlife at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, and learn regional history through hands-on exhibits at the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum. Hiking, biking, paddling, and lake activities round out the experience in the San Bernardino National Forest.

San Diego County

 

UC San Diego blends science, arts & dining

UC San Diego offers prospective students a campus rich in science, culture, and culinary experiences. At Birch Aquarium, visitors can explore interactive exhibits, marine life encounters, and the research of Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Catch world-premiere productions at the historic La Jolla Playhouse, and dine at acclaimed restaurants like Dora Ristorante.