I’ll bet most people have either not heard of Oroville or considered visiting if they have heard of it, and most of us are more familiar with Palm Springs than Palm Desert. Traversing California’s lesser traveled cities means exploring less commercialized spots with fewer crowds. So for the travelers (not tourists) who usually prefer that, here are some places to stay in California from Oroville in the north to Palm Desert in the south.
Hit the Slots at Gold Country Casino in Oroville
Oroville is a small city about an hour’s drive from Sacramento. Granted, it is limited in attractions, but you can tick off “see the country’s largest dam” from your list. The Chinese Temple is worth a visit, and you will have a new appreciation for the role the Chinese played in the days of the gold rush. To find your own gold, check in at Gold Country Casino. Rooms are spacious with large bathrooms that include soaking tubs. For entertainment, hit the slots, take in a show or chill in the Piano Bar.
Stay Near the Airport in Oakland
Most people head to San Francisco, but you’re not most people. You’re going across the bay to Oakland. Not only is the Hilton Oakland Airport situated two minutes from Oakland International Airport, but it’s also a convenient walk to the subway, which takes you straight into downtown San Francisco if you’d like to hop over to that side. The Oakland Coliseum is where sports and music events take place. The hotel provides a shuttle to and from the Coliseum. Plus, Oakland Zoo and Jack London Square are both only 15 minutes away.
Visit Disneyland in Anaheim-Orange
Competition among Anaheim-Orange hotels is high being so close to a top tourist attraction like Disneyland. The Best Western Plus Meridian Inn & Suites Anaheim-Orange caters to families with some suites that come with a full kitchen and the option for adjoining rooms. It’s on the bus route that takes you to Disneyland, or you can grab the shuttle for only $5 (round trip). Other nearby attractions include Angels Stadium, Honda Center, and The Outlets at Orange.
Polynesian Vibes in the Palm Springs Desert
Palm Springs is a desert resort city known for its hot springs, golf courses, spas, and upmarket hotels. It has a reputation as being a popular vacation playground. Walk into the Caliente Tropics Hotel and you’ll forget you’re in the desert. Tiki-styled and Polynesian-inspired, it transports you to the tropics. This hotel was built in 1964, and Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack all partied here back in the day. In fact, it still harkens back to the days of the 50s motor lodge, great for those who love a bit of nostalgia.
Go Golfing in Palm Desert
A short distance from Palm Springs is Palm Desert, a popular golfing mecca. The Holiday Inn Express Palm Desert-Rancho Mirage/Golf is close to many of the area’s golf resorts. For corporate getaways and those tackling business on the golf course, this is an ideal choice. It offers good rates and while accommodation is simple, it provides all the basics you need including free Wi-Fi. Start your morning with the complimentary hot breakfast before heading out to play a few strokes on the golf course.
* This post is part of Hipmunk’s Boutique Hotels Campaign.