Experience the very best of the Golden State’s natural and cultural treasures — from the deep-blue waters of Lake Tahoe to the granite majesty of Yosemite, and finally, the dazzling waterfront of San Francisco. Each day blends scenic beauty, historical charm, and moments of relaxation perfectly paced for a comfortable, enriching journey.

Your California adventure begins this morning with convenient pick-ups in Albany, Salem, Woodburn, and Tualatin before your flight from Portland to Reno. Sit back and enjoy as the scenery transforms from Oregon’s lush valleys to Nevada’s rugged mountain vistas. Upon arrival, a short, picturesque drive brings you to Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe, your elegant lakeside retreat nestled amid towering pines and sparkling blue waters.

Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe is your elegant lakeside retreat nestled amid towering pines and sparkling blue waters.

Gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at the hotel and a chance to toast the start of a memorable week ahead.

Afterward, take a stroll along the lakefront or simply relax and breathe in the fresh alpine air.

Enjoy breakfast before stepping back in time to the lively days of the Old West with a visit to Virginia City.

Step back in time to the lively days of the Old West with a visit to Virginia City, one of Nevada’s most famous mining towns.

Start with a scenic ride aboard the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, where vintage railcars chug through the Comstock hills — once the richest silver strike in America.

Enjoy lunch and free time to wander the wooden sidewalks, peek into saloons, and browse the antique shops and museums.

Savor an elegant Tea Party at the historic Mackay Mansion, a Victorian-era gem that offers a glimpse into the gilded days of the 1800s.

Return to Lake Tahoe this afternoon and prepare for a breathtaking evening aboard the MS Dixie II.

A sunset dinner cruise awaits aboard the MS Dixie II. As you dine, the sun dips behind the Sierra Nevada mountains, painting the sky in gold and rose — a magical way to end the day.

This morning, depart the alpine beauty of Tahoe and journey south along one of the most scenic drives in the Sierra Nevada. Stop at the Mono Lake Visitor Center, where you can stretch your legs, take in views of the otherworldly tufa towers, and perhaps enjoy a light snack.

Stop at the Mono Lake Visitor Center, where you can stretch your legs, take in views of the otherworldly tufa towers, and perhaps enjoy a light snack.

By afternoon, the road winds into the heart of California’s wilderness, leading to Yosemite View Lodge, your home for the next two nights, ideally located just outside the park’s entrance along the Merced River.

Unpack, unwind, and enjoy the serene mountain setting before joining your group for a casual dinner at the lodge’s restaurant — the perfect way to relax after a day of travel.

Wake to the sound of the river and the crisp scent of pine before heading into the heart of Yosemite National Park. Your guided half-day tour highlights the park’s most iconic landmarks — from the soaring cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome to the cascading beauty of Yosemite Falls. Learn about the park’s natural history, its early explorers, and the efforts that have kept this wonderland preserved for generations.

Your guided half-day tour highlights the park’s most iconic landmarks — from the soaring cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome to the cascading beauty of Yosemite Falls.

Enjoy lunch on your own at Curry Village, surrounded by towering granite peaks.

The afternoon is yours to relax or explore the lodge grounds before an unforgettable evening.

Bid farewell to the mountains and travel west toward the Pacific Coast and the cosmopolitan beauty of San Francisco. By early afternoon, you’ll arrive at the lively Pier 39, where sea lions bask in the sun and street performers entertain visitors. Enjoy free time to wander the shops, sample fresh seafood, or simply soak in the waterfront atmosphere.

Check into your comfortable hotel near Fisherman’s Wharf, ideally located for exploring the city’s famous landmarks.

Dinner this evening is at a charming local restaurant within walking distance, followed by an evening at leisure to watch the city lights twinkle across the bay.

After breakfast, board a ferry to the legendary Alcatraz Island for an immersive audio-guided tour of the infamous former prison. Learn the stories of its most notorious inmates and enjoy panoramic views of the skyline and Golden Gate Bridge from the ferry deck.

Return to the city for lunch on your own before an afternoon exploring The Presidio, a historic military post turned scenic park, and a photo stop at the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the world’s most photographed icons.

Explore The Presidio, a historic military post turned scenic park, and enjoy a photo stop at the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the world’s most photographed icons.

This evening, gather once again for a group dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf, where the aroma of sourdough bread and clam chowder fills the air.

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out.

This morning’s trolley tour offers a fun and nostalgic ride through the city’s most beloved neighborhoods — from the painted Victorian houses to bustling Union Square.

After lunch on your own, we’ll stop at Ghirardelli Square for a sweet chocolate indulgence and a bit of last-minute shopping.

Stop at Ghirardelli Square for a sweet chocolate indulgence and a bit of last-minute shopping.

This afternoon, travel to Oakland Airport for your flight home.