If you have a case of wanderlust and want to travel the world, you can do that right here from the comfort of Southern California without ever straying far from home. There are so many international wonders to see in SoCal that it will make you feel like you’ve just hopped on a jet and traveled the globe. Here are a few of our favorites. Which ones would you like to see?
- Head to Rome at The Getty Villa – 17985 Pacific Coast Highway in Pacific Palisades
wikimedia commons The beauty of Rome can be witnessed in Pacific Palisades at the Getty Villa Roman Gardens. Stroll through this stunning setting to experience a replica of the enchanting and ancient gardens of Rome.
- The beauty of Tuscany – Temecula
flickr/JDinBawlmer Continuing our journey to Italy, you can head to Temecula to experience the beauty of Tuscany in Southern California. Lush rolling hills and a scenic countryside dotted with wineries and vineyards will make you feel like you’ve traveled to Italy for a day.
- Korean Bell of Friendship – 3601 S. Gaffey Street in Los Angeles
flickr/ryan stavely You can take a journey to Korea just by heading to San Pedro in Los Angeles to view the Korean Friendship Bell. This bell was given to America by the Republic of Korea in 1976 as a symbol of friendship. The Korean Bell of Friendship was modeled after the Emille Bell from Korea, one of the largest bells in the entire world.
- The Danish Village of Solvang – Santa Barbara
flickr/prayitno Experience a slice of Denmark in this Southern California town in Santa Barbara that has been nicknamed the Danish Capital of America. Charming shops, restaurants, and storefronts will whisk you away to this Scandinavian country in no time.
- A slice of Germany at Old World Village – 7561 Center Avenue in Huntington Beach
yelp/Hans R. Since 1978, Old World in Huntington Beach has brought an authentic taste of Germany to this SoCal town. Most people know that Old World is THE place to go for its annual Oktoberfest celebration, but it’s also a great year-round destination for German eats, drinks and shopping.
- The Japanese Gardens at The Huntington – 1151 Oxford Road in San Marino
flickr/soraya s. Your journey to Japan is only a short drive from Pasadena to the stunning Japanese Garden at The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens. Featuring a ceremonial tea house, koi ponds, a moon bridge, and bonsai collections, this authentic Japanese garden will transport you to this part of the world in a matter of minutes.
- Then off we go to China – San Marino
flickr/john verive While visiting the Huntington Gardens we’ll make a stop in China after we tour Japan. The Garden of Flowing Fragrance is one of the largest Chinese gardens outside of China and we’re fortunate enough to have it right here in SoCal.
- House of Pacific Relations International Cottages – 2125 Park Boulevard in San Diego
yelp/Vincent P. If you want to tour the entire world all in one location, then the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages is the ultimate destination. Located in Balboa Park in San Diego, you’ll find 32 cottages dedicated to a specific country and culture. According to its website, these cottages “promote multicultural goodwill and understanding through educational and cultural programs” and “showcase the national traditions from many lands.” Sounds like the perfect way to experience the world all in one day.
How’s that for a trip around the world? No need to pack your bags for this journey; just hop in your car and take a tour around the globe without ever leaving Southern California.
wikimedia commons
The beauty of Rome can be witnessed in Pacific Palisades at the Getty Villa Roman Gardens. Stroll through this stunning setting to experience a replica of the enchanting and ancient gardens of Rome.
flickr/JDinBawlmer
Continuing our journey to Italy, you can head to Temecula to experience the beauty of Tuscany in Southern California. Lush rolling hills and a scenic countryside dotted with wineries and vineyards will make you feel like you’ve traveled to Italy for a day.
flickr/ryan stavely
You can take a journey to Korea just by heading to San Pedro in Los Angeles to view the Korean Friendship Bell. This bell was given to America by the Republic of Korea in 1976 as a symbol of friendship. The Korean Bell of Friendship was modeled after the Emille Bell from Korea, one of the largest bells in the entire world.
flickr/prayitno
Experience a slice of Denmark in this Southern California town in Santa Barbara that has been nicknamed the Danish Capital of America. Charming shops, restaurants, and storefronts will whisk you away to this Scandinavian country in no time.
yelp/Hans R.
Since 1978, Old World in Huntington Beach has brought an authentic taste of Germany to this SoCal town. Most people know that Old World is THE place to go for its annual Oktoberfest celebration, but it’s also a great year-round destination for German eats, drinks and shopping.
flickr/soraya s.
Your journey to Japan is only a short drive from Pasadena to the stunning Japanese Garden at The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens. Featuring a ceremonial tea house, koi ponds, a moon bridge, and bonsai collections, this authentic Japanese garden will transport you to this part of the world in a matter of minutes.
flickr/john verive
While visiting the Huntington Gardens we’ll make a stop in China after we tour Japan. The Garden of Flowing Fragrance is one of the largest Chinese gardens outside of China and we’re fortunate enough to have it right here in SoCal.
yelp/Vincent P.
If you want to tour the entire world all in one location, then the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages is the ultimate destination. Located in Balboa Park in San Diego, you’ll find 32 cottages dedicated to a specific country and culture. According to its website, these cottages “promote multicultural goodwill and understanding through educational and cultural programs” and “showcase the national traditions from many lands.” Sounds like the perfect way to experience the world all in one day.
For more SoCal inspiration, take a look at these tours that everyone in Southern California should take at least once.
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