The hidden delights of California’s Central Valley

Expedia’s 2024 travel trend report has recently coined the term ‘destination dupe.’

These are destinations that are a little unexpected, sometimes more affordable, and every bit as enjoyable as the tried-and-true popular cities, states, and countries travelers love.

This perfectly describes California’s Central Valley, a more affordable way to an all American road trip.

It offers local wines, an annual super bloom, the original birthplace of country music, and lesser-known gateways to adventure.

So if you’ve done LA, San Francisco and Napa, its time to make Central Valley your next California getaway.

An alternative super bloom

Modesto, one of several cities that lie within the Central Valley, sees a spectacular almond blossom bloom burst to life. Every year, between mid-February to mid-March, the region of Central California showcases a spectacular blossom season thanks to its 120,000 acres of almond groves, part of the 1.5 million acres of groves grown across the state. This is an unsurprising figure when you learn that California grows 80% of the world’s almonds and 100% of the commercial supply in the US.

Laid back wine country

Having recently achieved American Viticultural area status, Winters Highlands enjoys a unique blend of topographical features that create a unique microclimate perfect for the cultivation of a diverse range of red and white wines. The town of Winters sits within one of the most agriculturally rich regions of the US and has gained recognition as a top foodie destination. It is also noted as one of California’s most charming small towns. The area surrounding the town has an abundance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that inspire chefs to create gourmet culinary experiences.

Country music California style

America’s south isn’t the only place that country music has thrived. The Bakersfield Sound, a more gritty style of country music, was born in the Southern California town during the mid-50s and pioneered by country music legends Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. Bakersfield, known as ‘Nashville West’, has since become a hub for all kinds of music and the town has many ‘sounds’ for visitors to explore. Checkout the venues across town, including Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, an infamous venue amongst country music fans.

Adventure beyond the hot spots

Central Valley offers visitors the perfect gateway to several of California’s National and State Parks, and Visalia makes the perfect base camp for the Sequoia National Forest and Kings Canyon State Park. Visitors should stay a couple nights to fully immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty. Roadtrippers can take the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway on their way into the park, which follows along a portion of Highway 180, winding its way through the Sierra Nevada foothills before zig zagging down into Kings Canyon. Travelers will enjoy breath-taking vistas, granite cliffs and sweeping panoramas along the way.

For more information visit www.visitcentralvalley.com 

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