Griffith Observatory

Right before we left California we went down to LA to visit family.  My brother-in-law and sister-in-law took us to the Griffith Observatory.  It is an extremely crowded place (just beware) but that is because there is so much to do there.  You can visit for the great view of LA (so many wedding pictures being done), the planetarium show, the exhibits, or to hike the surrounding trails.  We just went for the view and the exhibits.  I have learned in recent years that I am not much of a museum person, but despite that and my pregnancy induced laziness, it was still really fun.  I recommend visiting the next time you are in LA.  Now for a few pictures:

Must Do Activity in the Bay Area

We try to see a Bay Area sight or two every weekend so we can take advantage of our time in California.  One of our favorite activities yet, and something we will never forget, was the Pebble Beach 17-Mile Drive  in Monterey.  It was seriously gorgeous. 

Tips for doing the 17-Mile Drive: 

Consider bringing a picnic.  The restaurants aren't cheap and the reasonably priced one we visited wasn't that good. 

Bring a jacket.  It was very windy the day we went so it was pretty chilly most of the time. 

Bring cash.  There is a 10 dollar fee that can only be paid in cash.  Oh and bring some quarters for the telescopes if you have any interest in seeing wildlife. 

Plan at least 2 hours for the drive.  It technically doesn't take that long to drive the 17 miles but you will want to stop often to take pictures and explore.  

Go to the bathroom before.  For a large portion of the drive the only buildings around are private (huge and gorgeous) homes.