The following first appeared as part of Live & Play, a special section in the June issue of Military Officer magazine. The magazine is available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more and access the digital edition here; learn more about joining MOAA here.) 

By Todd Gilchrist

As the most populous state, California offers a great variety of activities. In Santa Barbara and surrounding towns, there are dozens of wineries, and Palm Springs is home to some incredible resorts and golf courses. Joshua Tree is a paradise for campers. Kings Canyon National Parks boasts sequoias more than 2,000 years old, and you can visit 300-foot-tall redwoods at a variety of national and state parks.

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The only thing that might overshadow landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is the city’s bustling tech industry. Meanwhile, the entertainment industry offers attractions like the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Universal Studios Hollywood, and major studios across Los Angeles offering daily tours. Between Los Angeles and San Diego sits not only Legoland but also Disneyland, perhaps the most famous theme park in the world.