Rising gas prices and airline troubles may have you rethinking
your spring and summer travel plans this year. Come by your library
for a few ideas of things to do and places to go that are a bit
closer to home. People come from all over the world to experience
the natural beauty and cultural richness of Central California, so
why not make like a tourist in your own backyard? Even if you’ve
lived here for your whole life there may be places you’ve never
seen and new experiences awaiting you within a couple of hours
drive from Morgan Hill.
Rising gas prices and airline troubles may have you rethinking your spring and summer travel plans this year. Come by your library for a few ideas of things to do and places to go that are a bit closer to home. People come from all over the world to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Central California, so why not make like a tourist in your own backyard? Even if you’ve lived here for your whole life there may be places you’ve never seen and new experiences awaiting you within a couple of hours drive from Morgan Hill.
There are many good general guidebooks to California travel including: “The Unofficial Guide to California with Kids and Fun With the Family in Northern California.” There is even a book called “Weird California” that will let you in on some of our states strangest destinations and best kept secrets.
We are lucky to have access to many city, county, state and national parks in our area. Day hikes and camping can help you get in shape and experience the unparalleled natural beauty around us. The Foghorn Outdoors series of books include: “California Camping,” with listings of 1,500 tent and RV campgrounds, “California Waterfalls,” with maps and descriptions of more than 200 waterfalls, and “250 Great Hikes in California’s National Parks.” The library has trail guides to local parks like Henry Coe too. If you do decide to go hiking, check out field guides to help you identify the birds, trees and wildlife you might see.
Romantic getaways for two might include a nearby bed-and-breakfast, a winery tour and dinner at a fancy restaurant. You can find out about these in the Weekends for Two series which includes books on romantic getaways in Northern California or in the wine country. Kate Chynoweth has written a romantic travel guide entitled “The Best Places to Kiss in Northern California.” The library even has a guidebook entitled “Touring California and Nevada Hot Springs” – romantic and relaxing!
Don’t forget to cool off at the coast as the days warm up. We have a variety of coastal access guides that can inform you about both popular and secluded beaches such as: Ray Riegert’s “Hidden Coast of California.” If you want to bring Fido on your trip, be sure to check out “The Dog Lover’s Companion to California” by M. Goodavage – she shares lots of dog-friendly destinations and canine travel tips.
There is plenty of fun to be had close to home. Stop by the Morgan Hill Library to begin planning your next excursion. If you decide to go further afield, we have plenty of guidebooks to help you make the best of your experience no matter where in the world you are going.
