I can't help but experience FOMO today, because May 7 is National Tourism Day and I can't wait to get out and visit some of Northern California's tourist spots.
My parents raised both my sister and me to appreciate history and, while I thought visiting historical sites as a child was boring AF, I'm more than happy to visit them as an adult and definitely see what all the hype was about for my parents back in the day. I know that Sacramento and all of Northern California (the entire west coast, really) has a rich history, so I can't wait to nerd out once the stay-at-home order is finally lifted!
These are just seven of Northern California's tourist spots that I plan to visit soon. If you know of any others that you think I'd love to visit, please tell me!
1. Sutter's Fort in Sacramento
Just looking at photos of Sutter's Fort reminds me of Bent's Old Fort in southeastern Colorado, which I visited several times as a kid. I love how everyone gets into character so that you get a sense of what life was like back then.
2. Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park
One word: baller. Who doesn't love a great photo opportunity? I can't wait to tour the mansion once quarantine is over!
3. Sacramento River Train
Okay, excuse me while I freak out over all these cool experiences that this train has. I LOVE themed train rides, and the fact that this train has a long history is even better. Obviously quarantine has thrown a wrench in some of these plans, but typically the Sacramento River Train has these experiences and more: Wild West Dinner, Great Train Robbery, Thanksgiving Supper, Valentine's Day Train, Murder Mystery, Farm To Glass, and Magical Christmas Train where Santa Claus makes an appearance. This is all new to me, so I am totally thrilled right now that I can ride a train with Santa Claus!
4. Alcatraz Island
Only those close to me know I have this odd fascination with prisons, and I'm so excited to be close enough to Alcatraz to tour the island. There are day and night tours available, and supposedly they have a different program for the night tour. Maybe there's some ghost hunting? Who knows, but I'm all for it!
5. Glass Beach in Fort Bragg
This is on my list for shallow reasons. I want to take Instagram photos here! (Lol.)
6. Sacramento Zoo
I love animals, and zoos are always a fun way to get some exercise and see the big kitty cats!
7. California Museum in Sacramento
I grew up with Colorado history, so I've got a lot more to learn about California! This museum seems basic but also a great start for getting acquainted with California history.
BONUS: Hearst Castle in San Simeon
I've been to Hearst Castle before and absolutely loved it. I added this as a bonus because it's not really in Northern California, but it's also not SoCal, either. Fun fact: Lady Gaga shot her music video for "G.U.Y." there!