Robert Louis Stevenson Museum hosts an exhibit of Robert Louis Stevenson ephemera such as 8000 manuscripts, photos, letters and the like. It is, in fact, one of the largest collections of Robert Louis Stevenson's works outside of Scotland and a must-see for fans of his work. Virtually all of his first editions are here. Stevenson spent his honeymoon in the area and wrote The Silverado Squatters.
A picnic ground and trailhead at the base of the hill lead to steep trails up to the boulder-strewn valley rim. Hikers and horse riders to the Skyline Wilderness Park are greeted with pretty views of the valley and a respite from the wine-soaked tourist crush of the valley floor. Some moderate degree of cardiovascular fitness is advisable before setting off.
Formerly known as Marine World, this is a combination wildlife park, oceanarium, and amusement park. Some of its most popular attractions include a killer whale show, water rides and roller coasters, an animal nursery, a family of elephants, and roaming cartoon characters like Bugs Bunny and Batman. Bring the kids to take in a sea lion show after you get splashed by Shouka, the resident 4000-pound killer whale, or check out the thrill ride Vertical Velocity. The park is located a short 30-minute drive north of San Francisco.
There is something oddly fascinating about watching workers here take sugar and fruit juice mixed with a few other ingredients and turn it all into gourmet jelly beans. Free, guided tours leave every few minutes and walk you through the process from mixing, forming and tumbling to polishing and packaging. The visitor center includes (what else?) a candy store. Visitors get to sample test flavors and rate them for potential marketing.
This restored grist mill, originally built in 1846, is still functional and visitors can see its massive millstones in action, where millers grind flour out of local wheat. Guided tours of the mill are highly recommended, and flour produced here can also be purchased as a souvenir. The verdant surroundings are a great addition to the historic charm of this site, with winding trails adding to the outdoorsy appeal of this park.
The Trione-Annadel State Park has more than one reason which makes it worthy of a visit. Spread across an area of 5,092-acre (2,061 hectares), the park is steeped in Native American history and is known for its volcanic rocks. Ecologically blessed with a diverse flora, the park is home to oak woodlands, maples, fir forests. Come spring, the park is blanketed in fully blossomed wildflowers.
Also known as the Benicia Masonic Hall, the Old Masonic Hall in Benicia, CA was built in 1850 as a Masonic Temple. The building housed court room and offices and the second floor accommodated rooms of the Lodge. After the Masons sold off the property in 1887, it was used as a clubhouse and a meetinghouse until the Lodge acquired it again. The building is now a part the US National Register of Historic Places.
Rancho Obi Wan is a private museum that has the largest private Star Wars collection in the world! Originally started as a personal memorabilia collection from a dedicated movie fan, you can now see an exhibit unlike any other. Filled with Star Wars toys, Star Wars furniture, Star Wars pinball machines (that you can play), you'll see almost anything you imagine all related to Star Wars! Rancho Obi Wan is a private museum and in order to visit you have to contact them and arrange a guided tour. Directions to the museum are only provided after arranging a tour.
On the north end of Berkeley's fabulous Tilden Regional Park lies this 740-acre (299-hectare) preserve, where adults and children can visit the Environmental Education Center. The EEC is the ecology education headquarters of Tilden Park. Here, visitors can learn about wildlife and nature through a variety of displays, literature, and programs. Amid this haven of enlightenment, an enchanting highlight emerges the Little Farm. This cherished addition transforms Tilden into an idyllic playground, introducing children to the joys of interaction with farm animals in a safe and welcoming setting.
Rock Creek Vineyard strives to bring the real taste of the Napa Valley grapes to all wine lovers. Wine tasting sessions and vineyard tours are organized regularly, wherein you can sample wines and learn a thing or two about the art of wine-making. Take your pick from the choice of exotic varietals available, soak up the flavor, and take back a bottle or two. In addition, regular events and live shows make the excitement seem endless.
Although the Rockville Cemetery Stone Chapel was built in 1856, its story begins in 1850 when the pioneers who resided here were introduced to the gospel. People traveled long distances to attend the camp meetings that were held along the Suisun Creek before the chapel was established. Funded by generous donations, the chapel soon came to be at the center of the community's religious and spiritual lives. After the civil war the church fell into decline and became ruinous in condition although the premises continued to be used for worship by the families for those buried in the cemetery. In 1940 the church was finally restored and is a popular choice for wedding ceremonies even today. While this humble church may not be elaborately adorned or impressive in size, its simple charm is undeniable. The chapel continues to hold a place in the hearts of the people of Fairfield and is revered for its place in the town's history.