by Keegan Malan 

The Napa Valley and Bay Area are home to many sought-after destinations for tourists, and both are right out the back door of PUC. There are so many great opportunities that students ought to take advantage of living in this beautiful place. Everyone else has to travel so far to get here, but for PUC students, nothing is that far away from them. Here are some wonderful places to visit and things to do that are well worth it and will enrich your experience living here in the Napa Valley.  

California Academy of Sciences

Nestled in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the Academy of Sciences offers a wider variety of exhibits to explore and enjoy. From an earthquake simulator to a rainforest to a planetarium, you will have a lot of fun, and you will learn a lot at the same time. There’s so much to do and see; so much beauty to be explored. 

Golden Gate Bridge

It’s a national treasure; a beautiful and magnificent piece of construction that connects the bay. You can walk or bike it, take in the wonderful view, and know that you are standing at one of the world’s most famous landmarks in all the world. 

de Young Museum

Located just across from the Academy of Sciences, this museum deals in fine art. You can walk around all day and hardly scratch the surface of the pieces they have on display. The beauty of the painted world will enrapture you with its calming, thoughtful atmosphere.

Alcatraz

Alcatraz is a big one. Everyone knows about it, and it is well worth a tour. You’ll be steeped in history and atmosphere, walking down halls where prisoners walked, learning about their daily life, and seeing remnants of days past that remain to this very day, stained on the floors and marked on the walls.

Old Faithful Geyser

It’s not enormous by any means, but it is a wonder all the same, and it is surrounded by great beauty. Located in Calistoga, this geyser goes off every 15 to 20 minutes, and in between, you can picnic, visit the petting zoo, or visit the geology museum and see all sorts of beautiful gems and crystallizations. 

Hot Air Balloon Flights

If you’re not afraid of heights and want to see the valley and everything from way up in the sky, then this is for you. These flights take off just before dawn, so you’ll get a spectacular view of the Napa Valley while also witnessing potentially the most beautiful sunrise you’ve ever seen. It is a truly unique way of viewing the world, guaranteed to take your breath away. 

di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art

This museum is one of the most unique things you will ever see, and it’s right here in Napa County. Spanning over 217 acres, this museum offers a wide variety of art to explore both indoors and outdoors. There are sculptures spanning far and wide, a serene lake, lush picnic areas, and so much more. The art on display is frequently rotated, so you’ll be able to see so much more on subsequent trips than you would have imagined.  

Napa Valley Vine Trail

This trail spans more than 47 miles, from Calistoga to Vallejo. It’s perfect for walking or biking. You’ll head through the valley and see all its natural beauty, while at the same time getting excellent exercise and enjoying yourself. 

There are, of course, many more places to explore and many more things to experience in the Napa Valley and Bay Area. During your time here as a student, seek them out. Go with your friends and have a blast, or go by yourself; it doesn’t matter. The opportunity is right before you. So take it in hand.