Rugged coast, glacier-capped mountains, and temperate—and largely roadless—rain forests. Read more.
Spacious valleys, towering rock domes, crystalline rivers, thundering waterfalls, giant sequoias. Read more.
It's the largest alpine lake in North America and was formed millions of years ago during the Ice Age. It receives worldwide acclaim for scenic mountain views, luxe ski resorts and Nevada casinos. Read more.
At 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S., and one of its most stunning. There are no streams or rivers feeding it—the lake is the product of pure glacial runoff and precipitation. Read more.
The brick- and wood-lined dining room is animated without being frantic, the cooking defines the modern California-Italian ethos, and Michael Tusk is nothing less than a pasta savant. Read more.
The upstairs café at Chez Panisse channels the spirit of California dining even more ecstatically than its more formal downstairs sibling. Read more.
Like ’em spicy? Order the chiles toreados taco: the combo of habanero, serrano, jalapeño, and Thai chiles blistered together over high heat was pretty much created to set your mouth on fire. Read more.
Long-standing Latino vendors like Ana Maria, with its cartoonishly overstuffed gorditas, are crucial to the appeal; it’s that rich and varied diversity that makes the market—and LA as a whole—unique. Read more.
Try the Kaffe Tonic, a bittersweet creation that adds a little fizz and brightness to your shot of espresso. Read more.
Kris Yenbamroong is going for the jugular with recipes that throw heat and spice and stink in your face. The room and the crowd, both psychedelic, match the cooking’s intensity. Read more.
Once you have your sweet, prize, tell everyone that scoops of fish sauce caramel & dill pickle sorbet are better than advertised. The shop even collaborates with local breweries for booze scoops. Read more.
While everything in this place is pretty mouth-watering, sample a few of their seasonal flavors like cherry almond, balsamic strawberry or Sonoma honey. Then just get all of them in one cone. Read more.