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Madcap Puppets make a star of Galileo

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Don t miss Madcap Puppets zany show Look Out, Galileo! on July 17 at the Herrick Memorial Library.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum: A step back to the age of kings and pharaohs

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 16:00:00 GMT

There is nothing ordinary about the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, which boasts the largest collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts in the Western U.S. It s in a quiet residential neighborhood rather than a downtown location like most museums. The Egyptian Revival and Moorish architecture of the buildings and the Ancient Egyptian artifacts inside are exotic. Even the layout is unorthodox, with the museum sharing the city-block-sized grounds with gardens, a planetarium and a research library.

Winchester Mystery House: A monument to eccentricity

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 11:06:04 GMT

You will never see another house like this one, nowhere, no way. The Winchester Mystery House is equal parts grandeur and madness, with 10,000 window panes more than the Empire State Building, many of them Tiffany glass and some that open onto blank walls. There are also 2,000 doors, some that open outward to eight-foot drops. In all, you ll see 110 of the 160 rooms during a walking tour at the House.

The Tech Museum: A technology wonderland for all ages

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 16:00:00 GMT

The Tech Museum fits San Jose as snugly as the Louvre fits Paris. The Silicon Valley, after all, is the geographical heart of tech culture. And fortunately the museum s curators have ensured that the exhibits are understandable to almost anyone.

Santana Row: So much more than a mall

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Calling Santana Row a shopping center is like calling Carlos Santana (no connection) a guitar player. It s true, but it only scratches the surface. Opened in 2002, the design of the shopping district in central San Jose draws from successful elements seen in public squares and shopping boulevards from Barcelona to Beverly Hills.

LB Steak: Prime Beef at a prime location

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 16:00:00 GMT

LB Steak is the first restaurant you see driving along Santana Row, San Jose s premier shopping and dining district, and it s one of the best. There s plenty of sizzle on the entire menu, but there s a reason why steak is in the restaurant s name. Every beef item on the menu uses only USDA Prime Beef, the highest grade, which accounts for only two percent of beef produced in the U.S.

The Grill on the Alley: Back to the good old days

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 16:00:00 GMT

The Grill on the Alley is a step back, several generations back. It s inside the modern Fairmont Hotel in the heart of resurgent downtown San Jose, but does a nice job of recapturing the food and the mood of the big-city dinner clubs and grills of the 1940s.

Monterey Bay Aquarium: The Carnegie Hall of oceanic life

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Call it the Carnegie Hall or the Fenway Park of aquariums. After a day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium (MBA), the superlatives will gush from your lips as surely as the breakers that pour over you every 30 seconds in the Wave Crash Tunnel at this mega-aquarium. Some say it s America s best.

Amgen Tour of California: The Olympics of U.S. bike racing

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Who says bike racing is a minor sport ? Not in California, where the Amgen Tour of California (May 16-23) keeps drawing more spectators every year. An estimated two million watched portions of the stage race in 2009 that s live spectators, not TV viewers more than for any sporting event in California or any bike race in America.

Mix Downtown: Where the In-Crowd Goes at Night

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Chic, contemporary and upscale are all words that could adequately describe Sacramento's hottest nighttime gathering place, Mix Downtown. A luxurious rooftop patio and delightfully decadent restaurant and lounge area, Mix is the club of choice for Sac's "in-crowd."

Tapa the World: Authentic Spanish Cuisine in a Delighful Atmosphere

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:00:00 GMT

It's entirely possible that Sacramento's Tapa the World ranks among the most romantic dinner venues in the city -- and for good reason. This Sac hot spot is a festive mix of traditional Spanish decor and all of its colorful glory and decadent authentic dishes that border on sexy.

Sacramento Pipeworks Climbing and Fitness: Fun for All

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Whether you're looking for something interesting to do on an uneventful evening or are a seasoned rock climber, Sacramento Pipeworks is the perfect destination for fun and exercise.

Davis Farmers Market: A California family tradition

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Going to the Davis Farmers Market on Saturdays is more than just a family tradition for the residents of Sacramento and its surrounding neighborhoods. It's a way of life.

Revolution Wines: Vine to Glass Varietals

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 14:40:22 GMT

Revolution Wine, a full-service vine-to-bottle winery and tasting room, is located on P Street in downtown Sacramento. After receiving all kinds of varieties of fresh grapes from local vineyards, Revolution Wine presses them, ferments the juices and ages the wine in oak barrels on-site. Wine certainly doesn't get any fresher than that!

Scott's Seafood Restaurant: Almost Unbelievably Fresh

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:08:58 GMT

Scott's Seafood Restaurant in Sacramento opened its doors in 1991 and is continually voted as Sacramento's favorite seafood restaurant according to polls in Sacramento Magazine. With fresh seafood being delivered on a daily basis, there is no question why Sacramento locals can't get enough of Scott's.

Sacramento Ballet: Delight in the Dancing

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:10:34 GMT

Founded in 1954, the Sacramento Ballet was created by sisters Barbara and Deane Crockett. The Crocketts sent the ballet into the national spotlight, where it has since been regarded as one of the country's top ballet companies.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: Rollercoasters and tigers and bears, oh my!

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:09:44 GMT

Just an hour outside of downtown Sacramento lies one of the area's most visited amusement parks: Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. A creative zoo-theme park combination, Discovery Kingdom is located in nearby Vallejo.

Sacramento's Delta King more than just a riverboat

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:08:12 GMT

The Delta King Hotel in Sacramento is far more than your ordinary hotel. This classic-style riverboat offers 3-diamond suites alongside two fine restaurants, two dinner theaters, a wine school and event facilities-- all on the Sacramento River.

Sutter's Fort: A Glimpse into Historic Sacramento

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:07:21 GMT

Sutter's Fort is a working museum that boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of authentic gold rush and pre-Civil War era memorabilia in the country.

Fox and Goose Public House a Sacramento Icon

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:06:47 GMT

Sacramento's Fox and Goose Public House has been a city icon for 35 years. The British/Irish pub boasts dozens of imported draught beers, wines and cocktails that are as spirited as the customers.

Rio City Cafe: River Views and Fine Cuisine

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:05:59 GMT

Upscale and impressive, Sacramento's Rio City Cafe offers breathtaking views of the Sacramento River, fine wines and gourmet cuisine that is sure to make your mouth water.

Zocalo Mexicana: Fine Mexican Dining in Sac

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:05:17 GMT

Located downtown on Capitol Avenue, Sacramento's Zocolo Mexicana Restaurant is one of the city's hottest dinner destinations. Upscale atmosphere somehow manages to balance itself out so that it is not too stuffy, so it's perfect for a dinner date, business lunch or supper with the family.

California State Military Museum Brings History to Life

Sun, 28 Feb 2010 11:43:53 GMT

The California State Military Museum in Sacramento is an educational experience that will bring a newly-renewed appreciation for our country s servicemen and women.

Sacramento'sTower Cafe: Eclectic, Exotic, Whimsical

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Sacramento s Tower Caf is located downtown on Broadway Boulevard is a bit like an excursion into a Brazilian rainforest without ever having to leave the city.

Freeport Bakery: Indulgence Never Tasted So Good

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:32:44 GMT

If you re in the market for decadently indulgent cakes and pastries that look as delicious as they taste, you ll want to get to Freeport faster that you can say, Oh my goodness, this is good .

Hornblower Old Sacramento: Making Memories on the River

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:10:39 GMT

Sacramento s Hornblower River and Dockside cruises are the perfect destination for a romantic evening of dinner and dancing or a night out on the town with friends.

California State Railroad Museum: Historical and Fun

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:07:44 GMT

The California State Railroad Museum is a popular destination in Sacramento for visitors young and old. While the museum prides itself on educating visitors on the history of the railroads in the United States, there is certainly no shortage of fun and excitement for guests.

Blue Cue a Hot Nighttime Destination in Sacramento

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 11:00:22 GMT

Sacramento s Blue Cue restaurant and bar is a trendy nighttime hot spot located downtown on 28th Street. The understated entrance is a bit deceiving, as the inside of this popular destination is spacious and posh the perfect place for the pop crowd.

Esquire IMAX Theatre: It's the BIG Time

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:58:09 GMT

Sacramento s Esquire IMAX Theatre features the largest screen in the city, putting viewers right in the middle of the cinematic action. Located on the first floor of the Esquire Tower, this eight-story mega-movie masterpiece is unlike any other theater in the area.

Laughs Unlimited is Sure to Make You Chuckle

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:56:25 GMT

Some of the biggest names in comedy got their starts at Sacramento's Laughs Unlimited. For nearly 30 years, this popular California comedy club has hosted such names as Harry Anderson, Bob Saget, Paul Reiser, Jerry Seinfeld and Jay Leno.

The L Wine Lounge and Urban Kitchen Serves Up Trendy Drinks and Fresh Fare

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 17:00:00 GMT

The L Wine Lounge and Urban Kitchen might very well be one of Sacramento's trendiest spots-- and there's no question why. The atmosphere is chic yet intimate-- the ideal place for a meetup with good friends, coworkers or family members.

Arden Fair Mall a Shopper's Paradise

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:56:30 GMT

Arden Fair is Sacramento's largest indoor shopping mall-- the perfect place for shopaholics to feed their addictions. With more than a million square feet of shopping space and over 165 retailers, Arden Fair is ideal for bargain hunters and high-end shoppers alike.

Funderland is Fun for the Whole Family

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:41:56 GMT

Sacramento's Funderland Amusement Park is the perfect destination for tots to pre-teens and their parents. This small old-world style amusement park is jam-packed with kid-friendly thrill rides that will have your little ones shrieking with delight.

Discovery Museum Science and Space Center: an Out of This World Experience

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:30:57 GMT

Sacramento's Discovery Museum Science and Space Center is a true world of wonder for the little ones. Watch the kids' eyes light up as they take charge of space ships in the mission control room or set foot in a replica of NASA's Challenger, get up-close-and-personal with real wildlife from all over California and learn about fossils and prehistoric creatures like dinosaurs.

Mikuni Japanese Restaurant: Sushi is Just the Beginning

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:17:51 GMT

When it comes to traditional Japanese fare, Mikuni Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar is worlds away from it. Of course they've got authentically-prepared Japanese favorites like sushi and hibachi items, but it's the American flare that sets Mikuni apart from other Asian eateries.

Aioli Bodega Espanola: Perfection en Espanol

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:07:16 GMT

Sacramento's Aioli Bodega Espanola is an irrefutable favorite among locals, and there is no questioning as to the reason why. Aioli is fresh, flavorful, authentic and a little bit whimsical-- the ideal setting for a romantic dinner date with your significant other, or the one you're trying to win over.

Bay Island Gymnastics: BIG Classes to flip for!

Tue, 25 May 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Even if they re not destined for Olympic Gold Medal fame, kids can still benefit from the rewards of gymnastics training. Bay Island Gymnastics (BIG), which has offered beginning to advanced gymnastics classes for the past 20 years, believes the sport helps students become happier and healthier individuals. Some of the benefits include increased flexibility, strength, coordination and self-confidence.

Pumpkin Festival & Weigh-Off: The pumpkin also rises in Half Moon Bay

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

The pumpkin is venerated on Halloween, but for three other days in October in the World Pumpkin Capital of Half Moon Bay. Following the Pumpkin Weigh-Off on Columbus Day, 100,000 people a day flock to the coast for the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival on October 16 and 17. It s a celebration of all things orange.

Ciera at Montbleu: Hitting the culinary jackpot at South Tahoe

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Fine dining, with the notable exception of Las Vegas, is rarely found in close proximity to slot machines. But there is at least one exception to this rule at South Tahoe. The lake s only AAA four-diamond restaurant, Ciera Steak & Chop House, features everything you might want from fine dining: unusual and creatively prepared menu items, plus classy ambiance and service.

Calzone's: Affordable Italian fare found in North Beach

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

The namesake dish at Calzone's, located in the heart of North Beach, is made six ways: smoked chicken, Italian, marinated eggplant, lasagna-style, swiss chard and pesto chicken. These delicious calzones ($14-$15) are big enough to satisfy hearty appetites, and like the restaurant's pizzas, are shaped like surfboards and served on oblong plates.

S.F. Streetcars: Hop aboard a Market Street F-line vintage trolley and visit the Railway Museum

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

For more than a century, the conveyances that have moved most San Franciscans around the city have been its streetcars. F-line streetcars colorful, vintage models that rattle along Market Street and The Embarcadero on the waterfront are as packed with passengers as ever.

Sterling Vineyard: Aerial Views, Walking Tour, and Wine Galore

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Wine tasting at Sterling is unlike any other experience in Napa Valley. To begin with, no other winery has the aerial tram. Your experience at the winery begins here, hundreds of feet above the trees, where you ll enjoy a panoramic view of the valley on your way up to the hilltop tasting rooms.

Cappuro s Restaurant: Casual dining in Fisherman s Wharf

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Right in the thick of Fisherman s Wharf, Capurro s is located by the entrance to Hyde Street Pier on the busy Jefferson Street strip. After wandering the historic ships, take a moment to relax and rejuvenate here, where the maritime theme continues. The d cor includes fishing nets, anchors, and photographs of the fisherman s life at sea.

Lake Anza: A Tilden Park Haven

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

The Bay is too cold and rough for swimming, but you won t miss the ocean at all when you visit Lake Anza in the Berkeley Hills. Tucked away in the trees, Lake Anza is nestled in the 2,079 acres that make up Tilden Park. One of this park s many draws is a swimming beach, open in the late spring and summer, with lifeguard service in the summer months. Here, you ll enjoy lots of sun and protection from the wind, thanks to all the beautiful vegetation that thrives around the lake.

Piedmont Park: Neighborhood park rich with regional history

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Piedmont Park was once a very different place, home to the grandiose Piedmont Springs Hotel from the late 1800s to the 1940s. Mark Twain was a regular visitor and the teahouse that still stands on the premises was the biggest of its kind in the United States. Today, the 15-acre park consists primarily of green space, with a playground, recreation facility, plaza, and dog run. But a series of markers located throughout the park commemorate the rich history of this East Bay hills destination.

Hanh s Hibachi: Korean Barbeque on the Square

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Jack London Square is on the forefront of the restaurant scene. Steps away from Bocanova, Scott s Seafood, Il Pescatore, and Yoshi s Oakland, there s Hanh s Hibachi, adding Korean cuisine to the international selection in this up-and-coming Oakland destination.

East Ocean Seafood Restaurant: Dim Sum in Alameda

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

For fresh dim sum, one feels inclined to visit a restaurant in Oakland s bustling China Town. Outside of this area, there s one destination that stands out East Ocean Seafood Restaurant in Alameda. Arguably serving the best Chinese food on the island, East Ocean has come to be recognized for a quality dim sum selection and fresh seafood choices.

Lunchtime Live!: Free Tuesday concerts all Summer at Jack London

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Who wouldn t want to listen to free live music during their lunch break? That s the idea behind Lunchtime Live! at Jack London Square, which features two-hour concerts each Tuesday and Friday during the summer months. The outdoor concert stage is set up in the middle of the Square near the Waterfront Hotel and Scott s Seafood Restaurant. Audience members can enjoy the warm weather on the lawn or at one of many tables set up by the fountain.

Jupiter: Jammin Berkeley Beerhouse

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

House-brewed beer, live music, a European setting, and a spacious, two-level patio with a fire pit and flower-covered walls make Jupiter one of the most popular spots in Berkeley. Twelve house brews range from the Jupiter Hefeweizen, a wheat beer with a light finish, to the Jupiter Porter, a dark beer and Gold Medal Winner at the Great American Beer Festival. In addition to the house brews, you can choose between 20 regional craft beers to enjoy with delicious wood-fired pizza.

Battery Yates and Horseshoe Cove: History, fishing and a view

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge in historic Fort Baker, Horseshoe Cove is a significant spot on the gateway to the Bay. With its protected waters, the Cove once offered shelter and hunting grounds for Native Americans and, later, became a safe harbor for damaged ships. The military was quick to secure this area in the early 1900s, setting up the now-abandoned concrete harbor defenses nearby, known as Battery Yates.