The Best of Northern California

When you arrive in The City by the Bay, you will be instantly struck by its vibrant and eclectic charm. Check into the iconic Westin St. Francis Hotel. This hotel's central location in the heart of Union Square means you can absorb the local ambiance and explore all the sights with ease. In the evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travel companions for an intimate Welcome Dinner with drinks.

Admire San Francisco's eclectic mix of architectural styles and cultures as you head out this morning with your Travel Director. Visit vibrant neighborhoods and see places such as the lively Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square, a historical landmark linked to the American Civil War. Take a walk along the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge, spanning 1.7 miles. Learn why it is considered an engineering marvel and discover more about the people who built this icon of San Francisco. Next, set out to visit the quaint seaside community of Sausalito and browse the shops or have lunch along the picturesque bay.The rest of the day is yours at leisure. Try taking a walk through Chinatown, the largest of its kind outside of Asia.

Depart San Francisco and take a short journey to the Muir Woods National Monument to spend the morning walking among the towering ancient Redwoods. Enjoy a tasting of locally made cheese in a beautiful setting at a Point Reyes at a creamery. Then, join a Make Travel Matter® Experience at the Heidrun Meadery, a bee forage oasis. Have a picnic lunch and learn about the production of natural sparkling mead varietals using traditional methods. Enjoy an evening at your leisure in the vibrant town of Santa Rosa, nested in the heart of Sonoma wine country.

Enjoy a relaxed start this morning before visiting nearby Healdsburg, in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country. Savor the small-town charm, stunning vistas, and award-winning wines, all centered around a charming town plaza lined with shops, tasting rooms, galleries, and bars. In the afternoon, travel to nearby Boonville in Mendocino County for an Insight Choice. Choose a beer tasting at Anderson Valley Brewing Company and try hand-crafted authentic ales and lagers. Alternatively, choose a cheese tasting at Pennyroyal Farm, where you'll sample mouthwatering cheeses made daily on the premises. Arrive in Mendocino for your stay at the charmingly rustic Stanford Inn Resort on the Coast, and enjoy a delicious dinner at the acclaimed Ravens Restaurant.

Get ready for a scenic day in the delightful coastal community of Mendocino. Visit the Mendocino Headlands State Park with your Travel Director and take a walk along the gentle trails, rugged coastline and secluded beaches. Next, join a Make Travel Matter® Experience as you explore the Botanical Gardens on a self-guided walk. Founded in 1961, the superb gardens and coastal pine forest display and conserve plants in harmony with the Northern California coastal ecosystems, while also protecting public access to the coast. In the afternoon, stroll along Glass Beach, one of Mendocino Coast's most unique and photographic destinations, then spend the evening at your leisure.

Depart Mendocino in the morning for a fascinating voyage through California's famous wine country. Admire the sweeping vineyard views and sample the finest Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel at two renowned wineries before arriving in Calistoga. Famed for its vineyards and hot mineral springs, take a break and meander through the streets of this rustic yet refined retreat. Perhaps sip a coffee and browse the shops on the main street. This evening toast to your journey with your fellow travelers at a delicious Celebration Dinner and enjoy the relaxing ambiance of your boutique hotel, the River Terrace Inn.

It is time to say goodbye as you and your fellow travelers are transferred to San Francisco International Airport for your departures. Estimated arrival time to airport is 1 pm.