Opening of the World Design Capital

San Diego

© Unsplash

The World Design Capital San Diego Tijuana, as it is called in full, is a special distinction. It's comparable to the concept of the European Capitals of Culture. Together with Tijuana in Mexico, San Diego is the first cross-border WDC. Throughout the year, culture fans can look forward to a series of events and exhibitions. These include the World Design Festival (May 1 to 5, Tijuana) and the World Design Experience (September 18 to 25, San Diego).

Reopening of the Whaling Bar

La Jolla

Valencia Hotel

Quickly after its opening in 1949,Whaling Bar became something of an icon in the Valencia Hotel. Not only travelers and locals were fans of the establishment. Stars and starlets also frequented the restaurant. These included Hollywood celebrities such as Gregory Peck, Tom Hanks and Robin Williams and writers such as Raymond Chandler, Gore Vidal and Norman Mailer. The end came in 2013; the location had to make way for a new bar and wine cellar. But now it's back after an 11-year absence. The Whaling Bar shines in new splendor. However, some signature elements have been retained. It'll be interesting to see which VIPs will come here in future.

The Whaling Bar
1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
Tel.: +1 (855) 476-6870
Web: lavalencia.com

Happy Goat Diner: New farm-to-table restaurant 

Mariposa

© Happy Goat Diner

It is well known that the Golden State has a somewhat healthier lifestyle than the rest of the United States. However, exciting restaurant concepts with a sustainable focus are still quite rare. The farm-to-table restaurant Happy Goat Diner in the center of Mariposa is now putting an end to this. New attractions in California can also be environmentally conscious. On the menu, you'll find American diner classics. But the ingredients for breakfast and lunch come from the Happy Goat Farm just a few kilometers away. Founded in 2020, it can also be visited by guests thanks to the shuttle. In the afternoon, there's happy hour and live music on the farm.

Happy Goat Diner
5038 Central Yosemite Hwy, Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
Web: happygoatfarmtotable.com

Universal Studio celebrates anniversary

Los Angeles

© Shutterstock

It's not actually new attractions in California that are the focus of these celebrations, but relatively old ones. The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is celebrating the opening of the popular journey behind the scenes of the film industry until August 2024. Therefore, there's a special program of events and experiences to mark the 60th anniversary. And this includes the return of the legendary red and white striped glamor streetcars. The Earthquake attraction has been renovated, and in Courthouse Square you can also admire the original Time Machine car from Back to the Future. The Runaway Train, themed culinary delights and a dinosaur exhibition complete the program.

Web: universalstudioshollywood.com

Opening of the Firefall Ranch

Groveland

© Firefall Ranch

Rustic elegance, nature-oriented experiences and sustainable practices come together in this new resort. No wonder, since Firefall Ranch is closely connected to Rush Creek Lodge & Spa and Evergreen Lodge. And both are Certified B Corporations. They are committed to social responsibility, environmental protection and sustainable travel. Firefall Ranch is located just a few minutes from the north-west entrance to Yosemite National Park. Guests sleep in one of the 55 detached cabins or villas. Here, you're surrounded by nothing but nature.

Firefall Ranch
24025 Highway 120, Groveland, California 95321, United States
Phone: +1 (209) 379-6820
Web: firefallranch.com