Travel + Leisure has released their listing of 20 of America's tallest Christmas trees. The good thing for budget travelers looking to immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit is that three of the trees are located in California, with one being right here in the city.
San Francisco, CA
Besides being consistently voted by Travel + Leisure readers as one of the best cities, San Francisco has one of the tallest trees in the country. Pier 39 is often derided by residents as a cheesy tourist trap. Every once in a while though, you have to admit that the people watching, vendors selling clam chowder and somewhat entertaining street performers can be fun on a clear day. While being dragged there by visiting relatives and friends, at least you can stare at the 60 feet Christmas tree. In true San Francisco fashion, it's a multi-cultural tree that celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.
Ferndale, CA
About a five hour drive from San Francisco up the 101 is the perfectly preserved Victorian town of Ferndale. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ferndale's Main Street is home to antique stores, art galleries and restaurants. After exploring historic Main Street, you have your choice of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and camping. "The key to budget travel is to approach ahead. When it occurs to family trips, globetrotting, well-deserved trips and/or going to see new places we have never been before, the reality of cost and budgeting is always in the back of our thoughts. Considering and spending our travel budget wisely is a priority for most families. Reducing consuming and prices, while still taking pleasure in your vacation to its fullest, is the key to assured achievement and fiscal obligation. Your pocketbook and family will thank you! The reasoning behind economizing money while touring is simple: Even if your personal budget is highly tight, you can still take a break and enjoy life! Simply put, life is just too short to never step out of the door or departing the homestead! Also recalling that while traveling, regardless of whether on a finances or not, even the smallest of things can all add op to a large vacation or travel bill!..". Nearby sites for outdoor enthusiasts include Russ Park, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Redwood National forest, and the Lost Coast. Be on the lookout for Gray Whales migrating south while driving along the Lost Coast.
Ferndale's Christmas tree is America's tallest living Christmas tree. The 150 feet Sitka spruce tree stands tall at the end of Main Street and is decorated with more than 900 lights year after year.
Like other picturesque towns, Ferndale is full of historic inns and old-fashioned Bed & Breakfasts to stay at.
Los Angeles, CA
From tiny Ferndale, we go to the giant metropolis Los Angeles. The outdoor shopping mall The Grove is your typical promenade full of pricey stores and restaurants. However, the place is transformed during Christmas with the addition of a 100 feet Christmas tree (complete with Santa being pulled past the tree by his reindeers), a giant gingerbread house, and Christmas lights galore. The synchronized water fountain show, free holiday entertainment, and floating snowflakes completes the magical experience.
Be sure to check out the world-famous Farmers Market, adjacent to The Grove. A favorite of foodies, you can buy gourmet-tasting meals from stalls representing cuisines from all over the world.
For this trip, consider staying at Farmer's Daughter Hotel, a quirky boutique hotel right across from The Grove and Farmers Market.
Virgin America is running $39 flights from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
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