2nd trip

Question

We are planning a trip in late Jan(school holidays inmmy country and only time we can travel)

Includes

5 nights in LA

Drive to Vegas (any rental car recommendations- 1 day only)

2 nights in Vegas

Fly/drive to Sacramento (family)- 3 nights

3 nights in San fran

Looking for must dogs, tips, recommendations for accommodation or rental car,outlet mall.this is 2nd trip to cali, we have done theme parks and studio tours.

This is is to really get to know and sightsee, shop n eat!

Answer

It sounds like you have a fantastic second trip to California planned! Since you've already done the theme parks and studio tours, this time around it seems like you’re looking for a more relaxed and scenic experience, with some shopping, great food, and sightseeing. Here's a detailed breakdown of your trip with tips and recommendations for accommodation, car rentals, and must-see spots:

1. 5 Nights in Los Angeles
LA has so much to offer beyond the theme parks. Here are some recommendations for your stay:

Must-See Sights: Explore iconic neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Beverly Hills. The Getty Center offers stunning art and views, while Griffith Park and the Griffith Observatory provide great hikes and views of the Hollywood Sign.
Shopping: For shopping, visit the Grove, a lovely outdoor shopping center with a variety of shops and dining options. You can also check out the Los Angeles Fashion District for discounted designer items or head to Rodeo Drive for luxury shopping.
Restaurants: LA is a food lover’s paradise. Try some trendy spots like Grand Central Market for a variety of food vendors, or head to Bestia for Italian cuisine. Don’t miss In-N-Out Burger for a classic California fast food experience.

2. Drive to Las Vegas (1-Day Rental Car)
The drive from LA to Vegas is about 4-5 hours, and it’s a straightforward route along I-15. Here are a few tips:

Car Rental: For a one-day rental, any major car rental company (Enterprise, Hertz, Budget) should suffice. If you’re looking for something more stylish or comfortable for the drive, you could opt for a convertible or a mid-size sedan. It’s a good idea to rent from a location near your LA accommodation (such as LAX or a local rental center) to avoid extra fees.
Drive Tips: The drive is long but scenic, especially as you approach Nevada. Be sure to plan for a stop at the Calico Ghost Town for a bit of history along the way if you’re interested in a break from the road.

3. 2 Nights in Las Vegas
Vegas is all about entertainment, shopping, and dining. Since you’re not doing theme parks, focus on the following:

Must-See Shows: Check out some of Vegas’s famous shows like Cirque du Soleil (e.g., *O* or *Ka*), or for a more classic Vegas experience, try a comedy or magic show.
Shopping: Las Vegas has some excellent outlets. The Las Vegas North Premium Outlets and Las Vegas South Premium Outlets offer great deals on designer brands. Also, the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace are great for luxury shopping.
Dining: Vegas is a culinary hotspot. Consider dining at Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen or try a buffet at Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace for a more casual but upscale dining experience.

4. Fly/Drive to Sacramento (3 Nights with Family)
Sacramento offers a nice contrast to the hustle and bustle of LA and Vegas. Here are some tips:

Sights and Activities: Sacramento has a rich history, so visiting the California State Capitol Museum and Old Sacramento is a must. You can also check out the Crocker Art Museum, which is known for its impressive collection.
Dining and Shopping: Visit the Midtown area for great local restaurants and shops. Check out the Sacramento Antique Fair or head to the Westfield Galleria for mainstream shopping. Sacramento’s food scene is great, especially for farm-to-fork dining, so try out places like The Kitchen or Ella Dining Room & Bar.

5. 3 Nights in San Francisco
San Francisco is full of famous landmarks, and there’s plenty to explore in three days:

Must-See Attractions: Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island (book tickets in advance), Fisherman’s Wharf, and take a walk down Lombard Street. Consider taking a cable car ride, and don’t miss the stunning views from Twin Peaks.
Shopping: Check out Union Square for major retailers and upscale shops, or visit Haight-Ashbury for unique vintage shops. You can also explore the Ferry Building Marketplace for artisanal products and food.
Dining: For a memorable dining experience, try some seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, or go to Mission District for some of the best Mexican food in the city. The city is also known for its dim sum in Chinatown.

Additional Tips:

Accommodation: For LA, Vegas, and San Francisco, I recommend staying near major attractions to make the most of your time. In LA, you could stay in West Hollywood or Santa Monica; in Vegas, look for a central hotel on the Strip; in San Francisco, Union Square is a great option. In Sacramento, you might consider staying in or near the downtown area for easy access to dining and activities.
Car Rentals: For your drive from LA to Vegas, any reliable car rental company will do. In San Francisco and Sacramento, it’s best to rely on public transport or rideshares if you're not planning on venturing outside the city. Parking can be challenging in both cities.
Weather: In January, the weather in California can vary. LA and Vegas will be cooler but relatively mild, while San Francisco and Sacramento might be a bit chillier and could experience rain. Be sure to pack layers and a light jacket.

Overall, this trip will be perfect for sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying fantastic food. You’ll get to experience California’s diverse culture and landscapes in a relaxed way. Enjoy your second trip to California!