For the first time, Visit California is releasing a road trip guide that features first-person accounts from travelers, influencers, and experts who have explored the state. The 2025 California Road Trips Guide offers nine itineraries that cover a range of experiences across California.
One of the highlights of this year’s guide is an interview with Kristen Bell, who appears on the cover. She discusses her approach to traveling in California, saying it is “what you make of it”—a place where visitors can experience both city life and quiet desert areas. Bell mentions favorite stops such as El Capitan State Beach, where she camps with friends like Jimmy Kimmel, and Glamis in the southeastern desert. She also enjoys visiting Calistoga for its hot springs and mud baths, calling it the “California of the movies.” Bell describes her family trips as focused on snacks and podcasts.
The guide includes contributions from several other voices. Cory Lee of Curb Free with Cory Lee shares his perspective on accessible travel at destinations including San Francisco, Napa Valley, Tuolumne County, and Yosemite National Park. Jeremy Austin presents luxury-focused itineraries through Carmel, Monterey, and Mendocino featuring boutique hotels and fine dining options along the coast.
Anthony and Marlie Love from Traveling While Black explore Gold Country while highlighting Black history in Sacramento, El Dorado, and Calaveras County. Photographer Harish Kumar provides images from Shasta Cascade and North Coast regions to encourage exploration beyond popular sites. Ann Marie Brown gives advice for visiting all nine national parks in California.
The guidebook also features themed trips such as a taco tour from Los Angeles County through Central Valley; a theme park route across Southern California; an artistic take on Route 66; and winter escapes to Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lakes.
Readers can access these itineraries by downloading a digital version or ordering a free print copy of the 2025 California Road Trips Guide to be delivered directly to their homes.
