Just a few hours from LA, Joshua Tree is the perfect California road trip weekend destination. Dotted with the iconic namesake Joshua trees, this unique reels you in with rugged rock formations, wide open spaces of untouched wilderness, and a celestial night sky. Joshua Tree offers the perfect playground for anyone from rock climbers, hikers exploring its winding trails, and those wanting to explore and get outside. Here are a few fun things to do on your next trip to Joshua Tree.

1. Grab Coffee at Mas o Menos

Start your day with a latte or cold brew at Mas o Menos, one of Joshua Tree’s best coffee spots. It’s got desert-minimalist decor, strong coffee, and a great selection of natural wine and small bites if you’re feeling snacky. The outdoor patio is the perfect place to sit, sip, and hang.

2. Check Out The Beauty Bubble Salon & Museum

This funky and fabulous little museum is part retro beauty parlor, part quirky collection of vintage hair tools and memorabilia. The Beauty Bubble is equal parts kitsch and charm, and it’s one of the most photogenic spots in town.

3. Visit the World Famous Crochet Museum

Housed inside a converted lime green photo booth, this tiny roadside stop is filled with colorful, hand-crocheted creations. It’s weird in the best way, and a must-see for anyone who loves offbeat art.

4. Explore the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum

This open-air art museum is filled with large-scale sculptures made from salvaged materials. The late artist Noah Purifoy turned discarded objects into profound works of art that blend into the desert landscape. It’s eerie, inspiring, and one of the most unique outdoor galleries you’ll ever visit.

5. Check Out Pioneertown

Originally built as a movie set in the 1940s, Pioneertown is now a real-life Western town with a quirky main street, complete with saloons, old storefronts, and even live reenactments on weekends. Don’t forget to grab some photos in front of the old jail or the Pioneertown Motel sign.

6. Wander Through Desert Christ Park

Tucked away in nearby Yucca Valley, Desert Christ Park is a serene, slightly surreal collection of white statues set against the desert backdrop. It’s quiet, peaceful, and has an almost mystical vibe.

7. Go on a Hike in Joshua Tree National Park

You can’t visit Joshua Tree without exploring the national park. Whether you’re doing a full-day hike or just a scenic drive, the landscape is breathtaking. Try the Hidden Valley Trail, Barker Dam, or Ryan Mountain for incredible views and classic Joshua Tree boulders.

8. Catch Live Music at Pappy & Harriet’s

Located in Pioneertown, Pappy & Harriet’s is legendary for its desert-chic vibe, hearty food, and live music. Everyone from Paul McCartney to indie bands on the rise have played here. Even if you don’t catch a show, it’s worth it for the ambiance and a drink under the stars.

9. See Skull Rock

One of the park’s most iconic natural landmarks, Skull Rock is a giant boulder that looks exactly like… a skull. You can pull off the road and walk right up to it—it’s an easy stop that’s great for photos and a quick leg stretch.

10. Eat Tacos at Red Dog Saloon

Wrap up your day with tacos and margaritas at Red Dog Saloon, a local favorite in Pioneertown. The vibes are fun, the decor is vintage western with a twist, and the patio is a great spot for golden hour.

Joshua Tree is one of those places that feeds your soul—whether you’re in it for the art, the hikes, or the dusty desert charm. Each corner has something unexpected, and the slower pace lets you soak it all in. Bookmark this list for your next high desert escape!

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Sparrows Lodge: A Historic Hotel Tucked Away in Palm Springs

Palm Springs has always known how to keep secret hidden gems, and if you wander far enough down East Palm Canyon Drive, past the mid-century houses that flaunt their glamour in geometric defiance, you’ll find Sparrows Lodge tucked behind bougainvillea bushes.

The hotel was built in 1952, but back then, it was Castle’s Red Barn, a name that told you exactly what it was—simple, unpretentious, utilitarian. It belonged to Don Castle, a man who’s face flickered across MGM Hollywood movies in the 1940s. When he wasn’t in the movies, he came here to this barn in the desert.

After his time it opened as a hotel, but the barn wasn’t for everyone. You needed a SAG (Screen Actors Guild) card just to step inside. Stars like Lucille Ball and Clark Gable swirled their drinks here, far from the prying eyes of Hollywood gossip columns.

In 2013, it was renamed Sparrows Lodge. The barn was rebuilt in a way that felt deliberate, as though its weathered beams and stone floors had always known they were destined to hold stories. The new owners leaned into its simplicity. There is no television here. There are no phones. You can hear your thoughts in a place like this, and maybe that’s the point. There is a kind of hush in the desert air, a deliberate quiet that only comes from a place designed to be still.

They left the bones of Don Castle’s dream intact: the barn doors still open wide, the pool still catches the desert light, and the whispers of Hollywood linger in the air if you know how to listen. But now it’s a place for everyone. That’s the magic of this place. It holds the past without clinging to it.

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What to Do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara feels a lot like you transported yourself to a European city on California central coast. It’s a place where you can transport yourself into a Nancy Meyers movie in an instant and feel like you’ve truly escaped. Welcome to the American riviera where you can sip wines grown on the hillsides you can see, wander around a city of mission style buildings, relish in the history and soak up the sun.

I make a trek to Santa Barbara every few months, so I’m not sure how I’ve gone so long without doing a full travel guide! It’s one of my favorite weekend trips from LA, and also one of the best girls trip weekend spots. I have so many favorite spots, it’s hard to choose. Peep the list below for some of my faves!

Santa Barbara Travel Guide

Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage, set the tone for Santa Barbara’s timeless charm. Nestled between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the city offers a perfect blend of wine country delights, fine dining, and palm tree-lined streets. I’ve been visiting Santa Barbara since my high school days, so it’s absurd that it’s taken me over a decade to finally create a travel guide for a place that feels like my second home. It’s also where McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams was born in the 1950s, bringing some of the most iconic sweet treats to life. Spend your days sipping local wines, soaking up the sunshine, and taking in the history at Mission Santa Barbara, which has stood since its founding in 1786. With its sandy beaches, al fresco dining, and beautiful sunsets, it’s no wonder so many celebrities choose to call this area home. Here are a few of my favorite spots in this enchanting seaside escape.

WHERE TO STAY:

Drift Hotel: $ Located right in the heart of downtown this hotel is a great location, with a modern feel and has the cutest coffee shop and bar downstairs aptly named Dusk and Dawn.

The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta: $ A cute boutique hotel in Goleta, just a skip away from Santa Barbara.

Palihouse Santa Barbara: $$ I love Palihouse hotels, and this location is no exception. Such a cute spot with classic Santa Barbara mission-style architecture and a super cute pool.

Hotel Californian: $$$ A little more pricy, this luxury hotel is stunning and right by the water. You can see the ocean from the pool and it’s the perfect place to stay for a honeymoon or wedding night.

San Ysidro Ranch: $$$$ If you’re really splurging, this is the place to go. If feels like a literal Nancy Meyers movie set. The property is stunning.

GO SIGHTSEEING

With its old California mission charm and perfect weather, Santa Barbara is the perfect place to wander around and get inspired. My favorite place to see is the Santa Barbara courthouse. They screen movies there sometimes, and you can walk to the top of a lovely view of the city and ocean. One of my favorite things to check out is all of the architecture around town. There are a bunch of buildings by architect Jeff Shelton, and they’re so funky and cool to look at. It’s always nice to walk along the beach, or walk down the pier for a pretty view. Stop by the Santa Barbara Mission for a bit of history, and you can also check out the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and MOXI for some art! Here’s a quick list of things to do around town:

• Walk around the Santa Barbara Courthouse 
• Walk down the State Street promenade
• See Old Mission Santa Barbara
• Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
• Do a walking tour of Jeff Shelton’s architecture around town
• Walk to the nearby beach West Beach
• Santa Barbara Museum of Art and MOXI
• Drive to Hendry’s beach
• Hike Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead
• Get tickets to see the cacti at Lotusland

GRAB A COFFEE

When you need a boost, there’s a good amount of great local coffee shops in town. My favorites are Dawn, CAJÉ, Dune, and The French Press. Here’s a quick list of my go-to spots:

• CAJÉ Coffee Roasters
• Dawn
• Handlebar
• Dune
• Dart
• The French Press

EATS AND DRINKS

For being a small town, the Santa Barbara/Montecito area has a great dining scene. There’s a good number of Michelin-nod restaurants, and a great variety of types of food. I rounded up all of my favorite food and drink spots here.

Loquita: Spanish tapas are one of my favorite things in life, and this spot might be my favorite in Santa Barbara. So much so that we went here on our wedding night. Highly recommend getting pretty much everything there, and going with a group so that you can try a bit of everything. It even has a Michelin Bib Gourmand becuase yes, it’s that good.

Satellite: Wine bar with great wines and vegetarian food. My favorite place to grab a bottle of wine, get some delicious food and people watch. You absolutely have to get the yoga pants salad, focaccia, and cheese board. An absolute favorite spot of mine.

Bibi Ji: Amazing Indian food and natural wine is the perfect combination you didn’t know you needed. This hot pink restaurant doesn’t miss with any dish and is perfect to get lots of dishes and share. Don’t miss the mango lassi drink when you’re there! There’s a reason Michelin gave this one a nod. If there’s one place you eat, it should be Bibi Ji. Be sure to make a reservation because it fills up fast.

Bettina: You can miss the pizza here when you’re in town. They have good cocktails, wine and a super cute space in Montecito. Another one that Michelin loves too!

Merci: This one is a quick drive down the 101 to Montecito for some yummy French food. Perfect for grabbing a baguette sandwich in the afternoon, or a pastry and coffee in the morning. Plus, I love the vibes of this little space.

Oat Bakery: This cute little organic Scandinavian bakery is the perfect place to stop by and grab a few loafs of bread. Dreaming of their olive focaccia now!

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams: You have to grab an ice cream in it’s original location.

Mister Softee Santa Barbara: Another yummy ice cream spot. I love soft serve and this place really hits the spot.

Test Pilot: The best tiki drinks are at Test Pilot, a fun tiki bar in the heart of the funk zone. This is a fun spot to stop by if you want to take a break from drinking wine.

La Paloma Cafe: If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, this is the place to go. It’s an easy-going, ranchero-style restaurant with good cocktails and

Flor de Maiz: Great Mexican food, with lots of delicious tacos and yummy cocktails on the water. They also have a happy hour on weekdays!

Sama Sama Kitchen: A fun farm to fork restaurant with Southeast-Asian-inspired cuisine. They also recently got a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin guide.

Bar Lou: A new French Riviera-inspired restaurant focusing on farm-to-table cuisine by the group that owns Little Dom’s in LA.

The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch: If you want that Nancy Meyer’s vibe, this is the place to go. It’s a stunning, massive property that hosts weddings and includes a luxury hotel, but there’s also a restaurant on site that you can get dinner or lunch at.

Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach: If you want a classic spot, head to Boathouse. This restaurant on the beach is kind of touristy, but you can see the ocean from practically any table. It’s the perfect place to get breakfast or lunch and then stroll down the beach after.

Santa Barbara Public Market: If you’re looking for a lunch option this big indoor market is a great spot to head to. You’ll have lots of options for everyone. My favorite is Corazon.

GO WINE TASTING

Wine tasting is the essential part of a Santa Barbara trip! There’s an abundance of local wineries, and you can hop around and do tastings for the perfect day. Visit the funk zone for winery hopping, or do a day trip to the Santa Ynes valley. In the funk zone Municiple Winemakers is my favorite, and there are a ton you can see on the Urban Wine Trail. My top are Municiple, Potek, and Pali Wines. For the most coastal views, head out to the pier for a wine tasting at Deep Sea. Get a cheese plate and enjoy the ocean views! There is so much local wine and beer in the funk zone, you could essentially spend a whole week trying them out. I’m listing a few favorites here:

• Potek
• Frequency
• Municipal Winemakers 
• Pali Wine Co
• Lama Dog
• Deep Sea
• Pali Wines 
• Topa Topa Brewing Co.

Looking for a day trip to add onto your Santa Barbara trip? Try visiting Ojai or Los Alamos for a day of wine tasting. See my travel guides here.

Want more travel guides? Check out my travel section here!

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We got back from a weekend trip to Laguna Beach and I thought I’d share where we stayed! We booked a room at Laguna Beach House. It was so cute and in the perfect location. The rooms were stocked with everything you could need and they even had beach towels and umbrellas you could bring with you. We were right on the main drag and could walk everywhere from the hotel. How cute is the lobby? See my full Laguna Beach travel guide here!

Want more travel guides? Check out my travel guides here.

xoxo Erika

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Your guide to exploring Grass Valley and Nevada City

Nestled within the Sierra Nevada foothills of Northern California, Grass Valley and Nevada City are twin gems full of rich California Gold Rush history. These charming towns, with their Victorian-era architecture, quaint streets and Gold Rush heritage make the perfect weekend escape. These small towns feel charming like Stars Hollow or the town in Practical Magic and transport you to a world where the echoes of the Gold Rush era live on.

Where to Stay

Holbrooke Hotel

Constructed in 1852, the Holbrooke Hotel played an integral role in shaping the town’s narrative throughout the years standing as a testament to the legacy of the Gold Rush era. Over the years it’s hosted historical guests such as Mark Twain, Ulysses S. Grant, and John Wayne. Recently restored, the hotel’s 27 guest rooms are full of unique charm with antique furnishings that feel nostalgic of the original days it was built. With Victorian charm, vintage decor and period details, the hotel creates an atmosphere that transports you back to a bygone era. Each room comes with a clawfoot tub to soak in and it stunning. Rumor has it it’s even haunted. If you’re not staying overnight, it’s still definitely worth a visit for dinner or even a drink at the bar. Visitors to the Holbrooke can also see live music and events throughout the year.

The National Exchange Hotel

The sister hotel to the Holbrooke, the National Exchange Hotel, is another historical landmark nestled in the heart of Nevada City, California that showcases the town’s rich history and charm. Originally built in 1856, this historic hotel has been a cornerstone of the community for generations. Meticulously restored to its former glory, the National Exchange Hotel showcases an exquisite fusion of Victorian elegance and modern comfort. With its ornate architectural details, classic furnishings, and period-inspired decor, the hotel’s interior transports guests to a the past evoking the spirit of the Gold Rush days. From its storied past to its contemporary amenities, the National Exchange Hotel offers a captivating journey into the heart of Nevada City’s past and present.

What to Do

While you could easily enjoy the lovely hotels in the area, there’s plenty of exploring to do. We bopped around the towns and stopped in thrift shops, bakeries, and coffee shops. It was such a lovely way to spend an early fall day.

• Stroll Downtown Grass Valley
• Grab a coffee or lunch at Heartwood
• Grab dinner or a drink at Golden Gate Saloon
• Get coffee at Bluebell Coffee
• Get dinner or drinks at Lola in the National Exchange Hotel
• Go wine tasting at the local wineries
• See a movie at the historic Del Oro theatre
• Spend an afternoon on the Yuba river
• Browse records at Clock Tower Records
• get local cornish pasty’s at Corvus Bakery
• Get a burger and root beer at the classic Big A Rootbeer Drive In
• Get coffee at Communal Cafe
• Drink beer at Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co.

We spend the first day exploring Grass Valley. We walked around the main street, got coffee at Bluebell Coffee, a cute coffee shop inside of the vintage movie theatre, and then stopped into some boutiques. There were some great vintage shops, and then we browsed records at Clock Tower Records.

On our second day we headed to the Yuba river to swim in the water, lounge and soak up the sun. Then we headed to Nevada City to explore. There were so many cute shops so we stopped by some antique stores, wandered around the neighborhoods and then had dinner and drinks at the National Exchange Hotel.

It was such a fun trip and makes me want to explore more hidden gems in California. Happy travels! If you want to see more guides check out my Instagram and TikTok.

xoxo Erika

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I love a tiki bar, and I was so excited to see that The Royal Hawaiian was reopened on my latest trip to Laguna Beach. They’ve been renovating the space and just reopened it this year so we had to go. The historic tiki hangout first opened in 1947, and there’s lots of history in those walls. They have lots of cool history on the walls including photos of the original owner Philippines-born Francis Cabang and his partner Harold “Hal” Hanna. The current owners reconstructed the entire design and handmade custom details throughout to bring back the old days of the original restaurant. It feels like you time-traveled into the past when you walk in.

Want more travel guides? Check out my travel guides here.

xoxo Erika

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We made a quick trip to Laguna Beach the other weekend, so I put together all of my favorite spots. This travel guide is perfect for a quick 24 hour trip to Laguna, or a weekend trip.

Stay at Laguna Beach House

We stayed at Laguna Beach House and it was so cute and in the perfect location. The rooms were stocked with everything you could need and they even had beach towels and umbrellas you could bring with you. We were right on the main drag and could walk everywhere from the hotel. How cute is the lobby?

Go Shopping at The 8th Drifter

The cutest boutique! I wanted just about everything in this shop. They have lots of cute home decor pieces and I’m swooning over the shop design. How pretty is the interior?

Stroll Down the Beach at Heisler Park 

This area is my favorite beach in California. It’s so lush and full all of my favorite plants — bougainvillea, cactus, palm trees. It’s perfect to go for a stroll along the path, or head down to the sand. Definitely a must-see and be sure to catch a sunset there.

SHOP MY LOOK

Get lunch at Wild Taco

Every time I’m in the area I grab Wild Taco for lunch. I got the burrito and the daily sangria and it was delish. Isn’t the interior a dream? It’s right on the water and you can head there straight from the beach or pop over to the beach after eating.

Get Tiki Cocktails at The Royal Hawaiian 

You know I love a tiki bar and this is one of the most stunning. They renovated the space about 6 month ago, and it looks incredible. One of my favorite tiki interiors I’ve seen so far. It’s huge and an original that’s been there since the 50’s. Definitely a must-stop for a drink at the bar, but they serve full dinner too. How darling is this giant oyster chair in the entrance? Such a fun spot!

Want more travel guides? Check out my travel guides here.

xoxo Erika

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Best Things to Do In Pioneertown, CA: A Complete Guide

Nestled in the rocky landscapes of the California desert, Pioneertown stands as a bohemian, historic destination that seems to defy time itself. This historic town located near Joshua Tree National Park is a one-of-a-kind experience with its Old West charm, fascinating history, and breathtaking natural surroundings. A living reminder of a bygone era, this small town radiates a unique charm. No other place brings the forgotten past back to life as effortlessly and authentically as Pioneertown does. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just seeking a relaxing escape, Pioneertown has something to offer for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Getting There

Pioneertown is located in the high desert region of Southern California, approximately 130 miles east of Los Angeles and 30 miles north of Palm Springs. The most convenient way to reach Pioneertown is by car. Upon entering the Joshua Tree area turn down Pioneertown Road and enjoy the beautiful winding and rocky views of the desert on your way into town. The drive is one of my favorite parts. I highly recommend doing the drive through these hills at sunset at least once. Park in the large parking lot by Pappy & Harriets and wander around the quaint town by foot.

Address: 53626 Mane St, Pioneertown, CA 92268

How Pioneertown Started

It was constructed as an authentic Old West movie set. Its main thoroughfare, Mane Street, was designed to resemble a typical Western town of the 19th century. With its rustic facades, wooden boardwalks, and classic Western architecture, Pioneertown became an ideal backdrop for filming Western movies and television shows. Its creation was set to begin on September 1, 1946, by a group of investors that included Hollywood actors Roy Rogers and Gene Autry, among others. Originally, the town was intended to be named “Rogersville,” in honor of Roy Rogers’ famous singing group, “The Sons of the Pioneers.” To generate interest and attract more visitors, they composed a catchy song titled “Out in Pioneertown.” The song’s charm had an unexpected impact, leading the investors to rename the town to its current moniker, Pioneertown.

Over the years, Pioneertown served as the setting for more than 50 movies and serials, contributing significantly to the Western genre in Hollywood. Some notable productions filmed in Pioneertown include “The Cisco Kid,” “The Range Rider,” “Buffalo Bill Jr.,” and “The Annie Oakley Show.” The town became a hub for Western film enthusiasts, attracting filmmakers, actors, and crew members who sought the perfect, authentic location to bring their Western stories to life.

Beyond its role as a movie set, Pioneertown has transformed into a thriving community and tourist destination. Its Western-themed shops, art galleries, restaurants, and live music venue, Pappy & Harriet’s, make it a must-visit spot for travelers looking to experience a slice of the Old West.

Unwind In The Local Saloons

Upon entering Pioneertown be sure to check out the two local bars and restaurants xx and xx. It’s a perfect way to start your time in Pioneertown to grab a drink at one and relax, then head for a walk down Mane Street, and end your time with a meal at the other.

Red Dog Saloon

One of the first places to be established in Pioneertown in 1946, the Red Dog Saloon reopened in 2020. Today, it serves up some of the best tacos, quesadillas, chips and dips, and cocktails. Their menu is a fresh take on Tex-Mex serving breakfast to late-night. With its weathered wooden facade, swinging saloon doors, and vintage signage, the Red Dog Saloon exudes Western ambiance that transports you to the days of cowboys and outlaws. As you step inside, the rustic interior and dimly lit atmosphere makes the spirit of the Wild West come alive.

Pappy & Harriet’s

Looking for a cold beer or BBQ? When the hunger kicks in head to Pappy & Harriet’s. As you step inside, you’re welcomed by a warm and laid-back atmosphere that feels like a cozy, dimly lit saloon from a bygone era. Famous for its barbecue and burgers, the food here is comforting old American. The bar is stocked with a range of craft beers, signature cocktails (I always order the Highway Queen!), and an impressive selection of whiskey. Be sure to check their schedule for any live shows happening and get tickets.

Explore Mane Street

Start your exploration of Pioneertown on Mane Street, the town’s main thoroughfare. This street resembles an Old West movie set and was built in the 1940s as a filming location for Western movies and TV shows. Today, you can stroll down Mane Street, visit shops, boutiques, and art galleries, and soak in the authentic Western atmosphere. Prepare to be transported back in time as you step into this vibrant, immersive movie set and immerse yourself in the rustic allure of a bygone era.

Stepping into Pioneertown is akin to entering a vibrant, immersive movie set from the Old West. Its streets, fashioned in the 1940s as a Hollywood filming location for Western movies and television shows, exude a rustic allure that transports visitors to a time when cowboys roamed the dusty trails and saloon doors swung open with a creak. Every nook and cranny of the town resonates with historical significance, telling stories of lawless outlaws, spirited pioneers, and the triumphs and tribulations of the American frontier.

Shops 

Pioneertown General Store

The Pioneertown General Store keeps itself distant from the other popular places to visit in Pioneertown. that sells products aligning with the overall western theme including turquoise jewelry, local apothecary from the high-desert, and vintage clothes including a curated selection of denim, leather, flannels, and t-shirts.

Soukie Modern Pioneertown

A cute shop from Palm Springs selling decor including clothing, jewelry, home decor, books, beverages, and of some lovely Moroccan rugs.

X?BA BOTáNICA

A shop selling conscious skincare products including local-made soaps that are hand crafted in house with organic plant-based materials and plastic-free packaging.

General Mercantile

Another cute local shop with things ranging from vintage clothes, Southwestern blankets and trinkets.

Pottery Shop at MazAmar Art Pottery

The Pottery Shop has a huge selection of local pottery including Joshua Tree mugs, vases, bowls and decorative ceramic wall hangings. Most of the pottery comes to life right inside the historic shop.

Pioneertown Film Museum

Filled with posters, film props, old billboards in classic western style, the museum presents the best scenes of the Old West. The Film Museum is a fun visit with interesting and fun facts from the past to present.

The Church in Pioneertown 

A quaint little chapel in Pioneertown — the Church in Pioneertown invites Sunday visitors for a weekly service at 10:00 am. 

Pioneertown Motel

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Pioneertown the Pioneertown Motel was built originally as a waypost for movie stars of old Westerns and has stood since 1946 as a place for wearied travelers and sun-drunk revelers to seek solace and inspiration. Gene Autry played poker until sunrise in Room #9.

False Fronts

Similar to the “faux” town itself, some fronts are false, serving only as “extras” in the movies. Among such imposters are bank and jail that you can snap a photo in front of on your stroll through town.

Happy travels! If you want to see more guides check out my Instagram and TikTok.

xoxo Erika

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Living in LA makes me feel a bit starved for seasons from time to time. Though I love the sunny weather I’m always looking for a quick escape to find some fall leaves. If you’re looking for a fall-feeling day trip in Southern California you’ve got to check out a little town called Oak Glen. Nestled right in the hills above Redlands it feels like a mix between Stars Hollow and an Hallmark movie. The whole town is filled with apple farms where you can sip on hot apple cider, eat apple pie, and pick apples straight from the trees. It’s so cute and the perfect day trip.

What To Do In Oak Glen:

• Get a caramel apple latte and apple pie at Wilshires Apple Shed. They have pizza too!
• Do a hard cider tasting at Los Rios Rancho.
• Sip on hot apple cider and wander through the botanic garden at Oak Glen Preserve.
• Snack on mini apple cider donuts at Snow-Line Cider Mill.
• Go to the petting zoo at Los Rios Rancho.
• Pick your own apples at the U-Pick at Los Rios Rancho.
• Eat BBQ for lunch at Los Rios Rancho

Hope this inspires a fun trip for you!

xoxo Erika

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As a Californian I feel so blessed to have so many quick road trips to magical places. If you take a 20-minute drive from the coast of Ventura into the Topatopa mountains you arrive in the enchanting small town of Ojai. It’s the perfect place to spend the weekend — browsing book stores, eating great food, drinking local beer and wine, and, of course, chilling poolside. To spend the weekend like me read on for my full itinerary.

Stay at The Capri Hotel

We stayed at the Capri Hotel for the second time and loved it as usual. The pool is my favorite place to hang, and we pretty much stayed there all day every day. Love the 70s vibes of the hotel. They did an incredible job restoring this property, and the before photos kind of blow my mind. Isn’t this lobby to die for? I dream of my living room looking like this one day. P.S. the morning lobby coffee at The Capri is top-notch.

Get Drinks at Chief’s Peak

We also stopped by Ojai Rancho Inn and grabbed a drink at their bar Chief’s Peak. They have a cute little spot to drink and the sake cocktails are delish. The hotel is owned by the same hotel group as The Capri, and it’s their most rustic country style property in the area. Another cute spot to stay at. Such a fun mystical vibe!

Get Coffee at Beacon Coffee Roasters

We always grab a latte at this local coffee shop Beacon Coffee Roasters. They serve great coffee, and there’s a cute shop called Blue connected to the building next door to browse after.

Sip Wine at Tipple & Ramble

One of the cutest spots in town! You can hang out outside and enjoy wine and snacks on their cute patio. Tipple & Ramble is a must-do on any Ojai trip.

Wander Around Local Shops

Shopping all of the Ojai boutiques is a must. A few I love are: Blue, Ali Golden, Canyon Supply, Summer Camp, Kariella, and Point de Chene is great for wine shopping!

Grab Drinks + Food at Little Sama and Topa Topa

Sip on local beers and kombucha at Topa Topa, and order food from the Little Sama kitchen. I love eating at Sama Sama in Santa Barbara, and I it makes me so happy that they have a location in Ojai. The tots are a must, and their bowls are so tasty.

Browse Bart’s Books

Flooded with used books, Bart’s Books is an Ojai staple that I always stop in. Along the street they have hardcover books tucked into the wall for under $1 (I snagged a few!), and when you enter the maze-like bookshop you’re met with loads of books and plants in the sunshine. Follow around the labyrinth of books for a few minutes or hours, depending on your mood.

Get Dinner At Rory’s Place

The restaurant Rory’s Place recently opened in Ojai and wow it was amazing. We ordered way to much food and loved it all. The cocktails were great, the food was phenomenal, and we left happy.

Hope this helps you plan a trip to Ojai! xoxo Erika

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