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CALIFORNIA
One Region. Your Own Adventure.
California is so much more than one destination. It is a collection of landscapes, cultures, and stories that come together to create one unforgettable learning experience.
Whether your group is drawn to the beginnings of California, the excitement of San Francisco, the story of the Gold Rush, or the beauty of Yosemite, ACTS can build an educational experience around your group's goals.
LEARN + PREPARE
Below is an overview of ACTS® curated California programs. Use this page to learn more about each location and prepare for your program! Each itinerary is customized to fit your group's goals.
ACTS CALIFORNIA ADVENTURES:
®
SAN DIEGO:
CALIFORNIA'S BIRTHPLACE
San Diego, California
Discover California's early history through Spanish missions, historic landmarks, coastal exploration, and hands-on discovery. From the shores of the Pacific to the decks of a historic aircraft carrier, students experience the stories and places that helped shape the Golden State.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
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Explore Mission San Diego de Alcalá and California's mission history
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Discover the USS Midway and maritime history
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Visit Balboa Park and its museums
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Explore Old Town San Diego
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Take in coastal views at Cabrillo National Monument
BEST FOR: Younger students discovering American and California history through memorable landmarks, interactive museums, and engaging experiences.
the CALIFORNIA EXPERIENCE
Sacramento → Gold Country → San Francisco
Take students on a journey through California's transformation, from the excitement of the Gold Rush to the growth of its cities and communities. This program brings history to life through historic towns, hands-on discovery, and iconic California landmarks.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
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Explore the California State Capitol
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Step back in time in Old Sacramento
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Discover the California Gold Rush in Coloma
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Try gold panning
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Experience San Francisco's most recognizable landmarks
BEST FOR: Elementary students who love hands-on history, exploration, and discovering how people and events shaped a state.
COASTAL
CALIFORNIA
California's Pacific Coast
Follow the California coastline for an adventure filled with ocean views, fascinating architecture, marine life, and iconic destinations. Students connect science, geography, and history while experiencing the beauty and variety of the Pacific Coast.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
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Explore Hearst Castle
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Discover marine life at Monterey Bay Aquarium
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Travel along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway
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Experience San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge
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Explore coastal communities and landmarks
BEST FOR: Younger learners who are curious about the ocean, animals, architecture, and the world beyond their classroom.
SACRAMENTO +
YOSEMITE
Sacramento → Yosemite National Park
Pair California's rich history with the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite. Students move from historic landmarks and Gold Rush stories to towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and outdoor exploration.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
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Explore Sacramento's historic sites
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Discover California's Gold Rush heritage
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Experience Yosemite's iconic landscapes
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Enjoy outdoor activities and hiking
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Learn about geology, nature, and conservation
BEST FOR: Students who love the outdoors and benefit from learning through movement, exploration, and firsthand encounters with creation.
GOLD COUNTRY CAMPING + SACRAMENTO
Coloma Valley → Sacramento
Step into the world of California's Gold Rush with a history-filled adventure that includes an overnight camping experience. Students discover what life was like during the Gold Rush while enjoying the excitement of learning, exploring, and spending time outdoors.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
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Visit the site of California's gold discovery
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Try gold panning
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Explore historic Gold Country
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Experience an overnight camping adventure in Coloma Valley
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Discover Sacramento's historic landmarks and state government.
BEST FOR: Younger students ready for an adventurous, hands-on introduction to history, with the added excitement of camping and outdoor discovery.
CLIMATE
California's climate varies by region and season. Coastal destinations are often mild, with cooler mornings and evenings, while inland areas can experience warmer temperatures. Mountain destinations like Yosemite may be significantly cooler, especially in the spring and fall.
Weather can vary considerably by destination and time of year. Check local forecasts as your trip approaches.
GEOGRAPHY
California is a state of remarkable geographic variety. Stretching along the Pacific Ocean, it includes sandy beaches, coastal cliffs, fertile valleys, rolling foothills, and towering mountain ranges.
Students can experience the state's diverse landscapes firsthand, from the Pacific coastline and San Francisco Bay to the agricultural Central Valley, historic Gold Country, and the granite peaks of Yosemite.
WATCH
READ
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By the Great Horn Spoon! by Sid Fleischman, 1963.
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Off Like the Wind!: The First Ride of the Pony Express by Michael P. Spradlin, Layne Johnson (Illustrator), 2010.
LISTEN
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Hear the sounds and stories of California's historic places before experiencing them firsthand. Listen to the sound of a foghorn, a common sound in San Francisco, near the waterfront.
PREPARE
MENTALLY
EAT
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Fresh seafood, Mexican-inspired favorites, California burritos, local produce, and classic San Francisco fare.
DRINK
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Lots of water! Travel days are very active - make sure to hydrate along the way.
WALK
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In addition to enjoying luxury motorcoach transportation, every tour day includes lots of walking - everywhere! Prepare for your program by putting in lots of steps at home, and make sure to 'break in' your favorite new shoes for your adventure.
PHYSICALLY
