We had a blast continuing on our adventure in San Francisco. We had an amazing tour of Alcatraz, which many trip members were looking forward to. Learning about the prison was really interesting and we had a beautiful view of San Francisco from the ferry. After the tour was over, Ben P. stated, “That was absolutely perfect.”

Next, we took a short walk to Fisherman’s Wharf, where we spotted a seal on the pier before everyone tried some of the local seafood or a famous Boudin sandwich. Our fun day, and eating, was not over yet, as we went to Ghirardelli Square, where most trip members participated in an ultimate game of corn hole. Those not immersed in the game, chose to enjoy the renown chocolate or ice cream!

We ended the day in a very American way-with a baseball game! The trip members were amazed with the AT&T Stadium as we were able to watch the Giants take on the Cardinals. Some of the members took advantage of the fresh garden, where you can pick what you want to eat.  

The following day kicked off with a cable car journey throughout the city. We were lucky because our cable car must have been the most spirited in the entire city, as it was totally decked out with Giants memorabilia! After hopping off, we were on our way to see one of the most famous bridges in the world- the Golden Gate Bridge. The length of the bridge and the beautiful views of the city, once again amazed all the trip members. After walking across the bridge, we crossed over into the cute town of Sausalito, where we tasted the famous hamburgers and fries and explored the area. Our day didn’t stop there, as we hit another staple destination, Lombard Street! We took in the gorgeous flowers and had fun watching the cars drive down what is often regarded as the most crooked street in the world.

Stars and fame in Hollywood then surrounded us in L.A! Our group started with a walk around the Hollywood Walk of Fame by the famous Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.  Next on the to-do list was check out the scene on Venice Beach. The trip members were all excited to take a look at the murals around the area known as Muscle Beach. After lunch we checked out the UCLA hotspot Diddie Reise, where members indulged in delicious ice cream sandwiches before they got to feel like real college students relaxing on campus, in the dorms, at the beautiful gym or at the pool. We were out on the town again in the evening, checking out the 3rd Street Promenade and Santa Monica Pier.

Everyone was excited the next morning to head to incredible Universal Studios. The trip members were all amazed when the staff received the secret code for the Harry Potter ride and all of us were able to skip the line. We all ended the night at the delicious Voodoo Doughnuts, when Ethan K. excitedly met Robin Lopez, a famous basketball player.

The next day we all liked donating our time at the Los Angeles Food Bank, where as a team we worked together to help feed 9,000 individuals. It was inspiring to see everyone enthusiastically give their best effort and so determined to help feed as many people as possible. With everyone feeling in good spirits, the magic of L.A continued at Disneyland. Brayden really impressed some of the staff there with his unbelievable magic tricks. The terrific day ended with a magnificent fireworks show. We also hit the jackpot because it was Pixar Fest and we had an ultimate show with a flying Buzz Lightyear flying and various projections all throughout Main Street and on the castle.  

Our last day in L.A started at the Museum of Tolerance, where the group learned how they have the power to change our future! Alex T. was fully immersed in the history and the ideas. Then we headed to the Farmer’s Market and the Grove where the members loved exploring the bustling area. Afterwards we stopped in Beverly Hills for the true celebrity experience of walking down Rodeo Drive! To conclude our L.A adventure, we hit up the famous Improv Comedy Club where we all had a great laugh!  

We’re all ready to take on our next sunny city, San Diego!

The Westcoast Blogger

Looking to have golden times in a great city? See our 28-day Californian Extravaganza trip!