mary allen studio tour 2022

Interested in exhibiting?

September 28 + 29, 2024

Saturday 10 am - 5 pm

Sunday 12 noon - 4 pm

Over 30 years in the community!

The Mary-Allen Studio Tour came from humble beginnings in 1989, when Margaret Rowell of the Historical Society, hosted a walking tour of the historic neighbourhood and commented on the number of artistic people living in the area. At about the same time, Yvonne and Ray Stanton who lived on Allen Street suggested the neighbourhood host a studio tour. Eldon Leis and Jacquelyn Lumsden, neighbours across Herbert St. at Allen, each holding a home sales of paintings and Bonsai trees and pottery, respectively were enthusiastic to support the idea. 

While the tour has grown over the years to include homes in the Uptown neighbourhood of Avondale and Menno, as well as homes in Belmont Village the goal remains the same, to encouraging neighbours to get to know the talented artists living and working within the area. 

Waterloo is a city full of talented persons who embrace all manner of the arts whether it be yarn, clay, beads, paint, canvas, photos, drums, found items, collectibles, wood or whatever the imagination can conjure up. It is truly inspiring to visit the locations on this tour and marvel in the creativity.

As we have always said "Come on In" - we'd love to see you. 

INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING?

June @ Mary Allen Studio Tour

Sat sep 24 2022 at 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, 141 union blvd, kitchener, on n2m 2s3, canada | kitchener.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

141 Union Blvd, Kitchener, ON N2M 2S3, Canada

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Culture Days will return September 20 – October 13, 2024.

MAST: Mary Allen Studio Tour

Waterloo, ON

The Mary-Allen Studio Tour began in 1989, when Margaret Rowell of the Historical Society, hosted a walking tour of the historic neighbourhood and commented on the number of artistic people living in the area. At about the same time, Yvonne and Ray Stanton who lived on Allen Street suggested the neighbourhood host a studio tour. Eldon Leis and Jacquelyn Lumsden, neighbours across Herbert St. at Allen, each holding a home sales of paintings and Bonsai trees and pottery, respectively were enthusiastic to support the idea.

While the tour has grown over the years to include homes in the Uptown neighbourhood of Avondale and Menno, as well as homes in Belmont Village the goal remains the same, to encouraging neighbours to get to know the talented artists living and working within the area.

• Find out more about the Mary Allen Studio Tour. maryallentour.com

Mary Allen Studio Tour

Events at this hub

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 33 Allen St. E.

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 93 John St. W.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 287 Claremont Ave.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 81 Avondale Ave. S.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 50 George St.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 184 Herbert St.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 15 George St.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 272 Herbert St.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 142 Waterloo St.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 192 Strange St.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 681 Belmont Ave. W.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 71 Claremont Ave.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 700 Avondale Ave. S.

Mary Allen Studio Tour: 210 Union Blvd.

All Upcoming Events

Bayou Music Center | Houston, TX

Mrballen: the strange, dark, & mysterious live tour.

• Fast Lane Access - MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket
• Pre-Show Pass - MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket

Aztec Theatre | San Antonio, TX

• VIP Club Access - Mr Ballen- Not a Concert Ticket**
• Fast Lane Access - Mr Ballen- Not a Concert Ticket

Old National Centre | Indianapolis, IN

• Reserved Parking - MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket
• VIP Club Access - MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket**
• VIP Club & Parking - MrBallen ** Not a Concert Ticket **
• Coat Check - MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket

Town Hall | New York, NY

Warner theatre | washington, dc.

• 1924 Lounge Access - MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket

Carolina Theatre | Durham, NC

Knight theater | charlotte, nc, coca-cola roxy | atlanta, ga.

• Premier Parking - MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket
• EP Lounge - MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket
• Coat Check- MrBallen - Not a Concert Ticket

Duran Duran

DURAN DURAN ANNOUNCE LONG-AWAITED NORTH AMERICAN HEADLINING TOUR

NILE RODGERS & CHIC CONFIRMED AS SPECIAL GUESTS ON SELECT DATES

TOUR INCLUDES MADISON SQUARE GARDEN AND THREE NIGHTS AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL

SET TO PERFORM ON CBS’ THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH JAMES CORDEN TOMORROW NIGHT

NOMINATED FOR ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME INDUCTION

FIFTEENTH STUDIO ALBUM, ‘FUTURE PAST’ - OUT NOW [TAPE MODERN VIA BMG]

Today, Duran Duran announce their long-awaited North American headlining tour, celebrating the band’s spectacular four-decade career and in continued support of their critically acclaimed 15th studio album, FUTURE PAST .

Starting August 19, the 14-date tour will see the multi-platinum, award-winning legends play iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York City, the Wynn Las Vegas , and The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, amongst others. Members of Duran Duran’ s VIP Community will have access to a pre-sale for the North American tour on Friday, March 18th at 10am local venue time. Visit www.duranduranmusic.com for pre-sale details.

Tickets go on general sale Friday, March 25th at 10am local venue time, apart from Madison Square Garden and Footprint Center in Phoenix , which will go on sale at 12pm local venue time. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit https://duranduran.com/ .

Joining as special guests for select shows will be Nile Rodgers & CHIC , playing all dates except Las Vegas and Los Angeles.

Duran Duran North American Tour Dates [Please note ticketing links may not be active until on sale. Please see information below] **

Friday, August 19, 2022 Treasure Island Amphitheater , Minneapolis, MN. Tickets here. **

Saturday, August 20, 2022 United Center , Chicago, IL, Tickets here .**

Monday, August 22, 2022 Budweiser Stage , Toronto, ON. Tickets here .**

Tuesday, August 23, 2022   Merriweather Post Pavilion , Columbia, MD. Tickets here .**

Thursday, August 25, 2022 Madison Square Garden , New York, NY. Tickets here .**

Friday, August 26, 2022 WonderBus , Columbus, OH. Tickets here .*

Tuesday, August 30, 2022 Dickies Arena , Ft. Worth, TX. Tickets here .**

Thursday, September 1, 2022 Wynn Las Vegas , NV. Tickets here .

Saturday, September 3, 2022 Wynn Las Vegas , NV. Tickets here .

Sunday, September 4, 2022 Chase Center , San Francisco, CA. Tickets here .**

Wednesday, September 7, 2022  Footprint Center , Phoenix, AZ. Tickets here .**

September 9-11, 2022, FUTURE PAST Weekend,  Hollywood Bowl , Hollywood, CA. Tickets here .*

Duran Duran VIP Fan Community Pre-Sales will take place on March 18 at 10am local market time. Please visit http://duranduranmusic.com for further information.

American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets in all markets (excluding Merriweather Post) before the general public beginning Monday, March 21 at 10am local time through Thursday, March 24 at 10pm local time. Visit Ticketmaster & click American Express® Card Member Presale under 'Ticket Type.'

Public on sale Friday, March 25th at 10am local venue time with the exception of Madison Square Garden (NY) and Footprint Center (AZ), which will go on sale at NOON local venue time.

*  Already on sale     ** With Special Guest Nile Rodgers & CHIC

Duran Duran’s current album, ‘FUTURE PAST’ is available digitally as well as in a variety of physical formats: standard CD, cassette, a limited edition deluxe hardback book CD featuring three additional tracks, and colored vinyl here .  It is also available in immersive Sony 360 Reality Audio on Amazon Music HD, TIDAL HiFi, and Deezer HiFi.

Enlisting the help of some of the most exciting names of the last 50 years, with ‘ FUTURE PAST, ’ Duran Duran have delivered another incredible genre-spanning piece of work that once again sets them apart from the pack. Working alongside DJ / producer Erol Alkan and pioneering Italian composer / producer Giorgio Moroder , who added his magic to create two instant future classics (‘ BEAUTIFUL LIES ,’ ‘ TONIGHT UNITED’ ), as well as some of the most unexpected and inspiring names in pop – including Swedish hitmaker, Tove Lo on ‘ GIVE IT ALL UP ,’ ‘Queen of Drill’ Ivorian Doll on ‘ HAMMERHEAD’ and Japan’s CHAI on ‘ MORE JOY! ’.  In addition, Blur’s Graham Coxon co-wrote and lends his guitar to several tracks on the record and David Bowie’s former pianist Mike Garson adds an exquisite sonic layer to album closer ‘ FALLING’ . The record, which was recorded across studios in London and LA over lockdown, also features long-time collaborator Mark Ronson who co-wrote and played on ‘WING,’ and was mixed by Mark ‘Spike’ Stent .

LISTEN TO THE ALBUM ‘FUTURE PAST’ (DELUXE) HERE

DANSE MACABRE

Buy / listen purchase, join the mailing list.

June @ Mary Allen Studio Tour

Sat Sep 24 2022 at 10:00 am to 05:00 pm

141 Union Blvd, Kitchener, ON N2M 2S3, Canada | Kitchener, ON

Where is it happening?

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Host or Publisher Moon and June Pottery

It's more fun with friends. share with friends.

About Lumen

Lumen is on September 23, 2023

What is lumen.

Lumen is an annual, free, all-ages festival that is open to the public and run by the City of Waterloo’s Arts and Culture team (Create Waterloo). The event features the work of artists as they explore the interplay of light, art, and technology in installations located throughout uptown Waterloo. Established in 2018, Lumen takes place on the last Saturday of September at various indoor and outdoor installation locations, bringing together tech industry leaders like the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), the Perimeter Institute and Shopify, with locally and internationally renowned multi-disciplinary artists. Traditionally hosting 30+ visual, interactive, new media, and performance-based installations, the event was adapted in 2020 to a virtual format in order to accommodate for the safety of the community amidst the COVID-19 pandemic: Lumen at Home. A virtual festival where art, light and tech meet. In 2021, we hosted Lumen Lite, an adapted version of the annual festival of light, art & tech, with COVID-19 protocols put in place. And 2022 saw the return of the full festival. This year, we are excited to bring another full festival to the streets up uptown Waterloo. Residents and community members are invited to enjoy this free festival and think about our community’s public spaces and how they transform our shared experiences. In addition to a lineup of high-caliber artists, Lumen has also featured collaborations and partnerships between the City of Waterloo and cultural organizations such as Button Factory Arts, Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, Waterloo Public Library, Mary Allen Studio Tour, Centre for International Governance Innovation, Kazoo!Fest, THEMUSEUM, City of Waterloo Museum, Department of Fine Arts, University of Waterloo, Institute for Quantum Computing, University of Waterloo, LAUNCH Waterloo, Canada Learning Code.

@Create_Waterloo

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Project 365, 2022 Edtion: Day 269/365

100x, 2022 Edition: 76/100

At studio tours over the years I have collected a few art cards from various artists I liked. Yesterday on the Mary Allen Studio Tour I bought these two. The one on the left is hand-painted by Danielle Saint-Onge, who I also photographed for my 100 Strangers project: flic.kr/p/2nP2scU

The second is made by Djurdja Cvjeticanin, who makes pictures and cards using pressed plants and botanical prints. We had a lively conversation about herbariums. I chose lily-of-the-valley because it reminds me of my mother. Djurdja said her name means lily-of-the-valley.

They are totally different, opposites almost, but both reflect my interest in botany.

Thank you to everyone who visits, faves, and comments.

For my 100 Strangers project: 2/100

For Project 365, 2022 Edtion: Day 268/365

This afternoon Danny and I walked through part of the Mary Allen Studio Tour (MAST) in Westmount neighbourhood near Uptown Waterloo, Ontario. Artists of all kinds are among the people I most enjoy meeting. I set out with the goal of asking one of the artists if I could photograph them for the 100 Strangers project. However, I know creators can be sensitive about having their work photographed. Whenever we entered one of the locations, I was careful to leave the lens cap on.

Danielle Saint-Onge was showing her work in the second house we came to, along with several others. As a botany geek and colour geek I was especially drawn to her vivid floral abstractions. She was engaged in buoyant conversation with someone else when we first passed through the room. I picked out one of her hand-painted cards I wanted to purchase but left it in place.

When we had finished touring the house, Danielle was alone. I went back for the card and she greeted us. Noting my camera, she encouraged me to photograph anything I liked. She made it easy! I told her about 100 Strangers project, and asked if I could take her portrait with one of her works. "Tangled garden" was my favourite of the large ones hanging on the wall (she tells me it sold shortly after the photo shoot). She seemed to have two design approaches: bright, vivid paintings like this, and deeper, softer, darker ones (think purple irises). The card I picked to buy was in the more sombre mode, but among the larger paintings I felt more drawn to the bright ones.

Danielle offered to take it outside for the photo shoot. I have strong ideas about sense of place, the genius loci. Her work would have looked fine with a garden background, and there were many interesting gardens around the Westmount neighbourhood. But instinctively I wanted to shoot this photo in the house where her work was being shown. It felt more authentic to the situation where we met. It was also partly a tribute to art lovers like the woman who hosted these five or six artists in her house. I believe she is the woman standing down the hall, though I didn't notice her at the time of shooting.

My regret is that I didn't have an external light source or choose to situate Danielle with better light, and I didn't think to take the tripod along. I had to shoot with a high ISO, so the resolution is poor. I'm lucky it turned out at such a slow shutter speed. Not wanting to impose, I worked quickly. That can be a good thing, but in this instance it wouldn't have hurt to slow down and practice mindfulness.

On the other hand, I am pleased with how I composed the shot in situ. Danielle was a natural. She has a great smile.

She describes herself as an emerging artist who started painting during the pandemic as a way of connecting with her students. Can you tell she is a full-time elementary school teacher? She describes painting as one of her "passion projects."

Find out more about Danielle: www.daniellesaint-onge.com/

Find out more about MAST: www.maryallentour.com/

Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page

Protect Your Trip »

The 21 Best California Tours

Make the most of your time in the Golden State with one of these top-rated tours.

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Explore California's cities, coasts and cultures on these tours.

With its beaches , lakes , mountains, vineyards and national parks , California is full of unforgettable experiences. But its sheer size can feel overwhelming, even for the seasoned traveler. Relying on the knowledge and expertise of a local can help you make the most of your visit. After consulting traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News compiled the best California tours. Whether you want to savor a glass of wine in Napa Valley or marvel at Yosemite's peaks, there's a tour for you.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may be running more limited operations due to COVID-19 or may impose testing or vaccine requirements. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

San Francisco: Painted Ladies Tour Company – San Francisco City Tour

Cruise around San Francisco in a vintage Volkswagen bus with the Painted Ladies Tour Company. On the two-hour San Francisco City Tour, which welcomes up to seven participants, you'll see sights like Lombard Street , Union Square , Chinatown , the Golden Gate Bridge and more. Plus, you'll make three stops for photos. Tourgoers say this is a fun and unique way to sightsee around San Francisco and describe the guides as funny and well-versed in the city's history.

Ticket prices start at $85 for adults and $65 for kids ages 1 to 12. Discounts are available for seniors ages 65 and older. Tours are generally available multiple times a day from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. They depart from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square. The company also offers tours of Sonoma in its signature Volkswagen buses.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 .]

Los Angeles: Six Taste – Downtown LA Food Tour

According to reviewers, the Downtown LA Food Tour from Six Taste is a great way to start off your Los Angeles visit. During the roughly four-hour tour, you'll enjoy more than seven tastings as you traverse 12 city blocks. In between bites, your guide will share information about the city's art deco architecture and its unique history. Plus, you'll pay a visit to the Grand Central Market – LA's largest and oldest public market. Tastings on the tour may include Cantonese barbecue pork, gelato, homemade pasta and French dip sandwiches, among other dishes. Note that the tour is not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets.

Tickets cost approximately $75 per person. Tours are generally available on Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. Craving more? Six Taste offers a variety of tours in other parts of the city, including the Arts District and Santa Monica .

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Napa: Platypus Wine Tours – Napa Valley Join-In Tour

You and up to 11 other participants will visit three wineries within Napa Valley on this popular shuttle tour. Wineries visited vary by the day, but you can expect to stop at small, intimate locations, such as Tedeschi Family Winery and Hans Fahden Vineyards. Travelers highly recommend the tour, citing the personable, informative guides as highlights. Reviewers are also pleased with the wineries visited. Tours are generally available daily, departing at 10:30 a.m. and returning at 5 p.m.

Tickets start at $119 per person and include round-trip Napa hotel transportation, a picnic lunch and bottled water. Note that winery tasting fees are not included and generally cost $20 to $25 a person. The company also operates winery tours through Sonoma, in addition to private tours.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]

San Diego: San Diego Seal Tour

According to reviewers, the San Diego Seal Tour is a great experience, whether you're traveling with your family or by yourself. During the approximately 90-minute excursion, you'll cruise through the streets of San Diego in an amphibious vehicle before splashing into the San Diego Bay. As you keep your eyes peeled for sea lions, seals and dolphins, your captain and first mate will offer an overview of San Diego history. Along the way, you'll pass by attractions like the USS Midway Museum , Point Loma and Shelter Island. Tours depart on the hour from downtown's Seaport Village from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the winter.

Ticket prices start at $44 per adult, $25 for kids ages 4 to 12 and $10 for children 3 and younger. You can take advantage of a slight discount if you purchase your tickets online in advance. Tickets that combine a Seal tour with a tour on the Old Town Trolley are also available.

Los Angeles: Pedal... or Not – LA Electric Bike Tour

Cycle your way through sunny Santa Monica on this three-hour electric bike tour. Along the way, you'll see Santa Monica Pier , Venice Beach , Muscle Beach and the Venice Canals, among other sights. According to tourgoers, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the bikes are easy to use. Though the bike allows you to switch between pedaling and using the electric motor, the company still recommends that participants be comfortable riding a bike. The company provides helmets.

Tours are generally available daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets start at $79 per participant ages 13 and older. Children younger than 13 cannot participate in the tour. You can also book this as a private tour for between two and six riders. Tickets for the private tour option start at $99 per person.

San Diego: Flagship Cruises and Events – San Diego Full Bay Harbor Cruise

Enjoy views of the Coronado Bridge , military ships, waterfront landmarks and marine life on this two-hour cruise around San Diego Bay. Along with 360-degree views of the harbor, you'll also enjoy live narration from the crew, who share details about San Diego history and the military ships that dock in its harbor. Cruisers call this a must-do in San Diego, praising the views and interesting narration. Reviewers say this is a great thing to do on your first day in San Diego.

Tickets cost approximately $35 for adults, $32 for seniors and military members and $17.50 for children ages 4 to 12. Tours depart from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. every day, though there may be fewer cruises in the winter months. If you're short on time, you can opt for the company's hourlong cruises, which sail around either the north or south harbor. Whale watching excursions and dining cruises are also available.

San Diego: San Diego Whale Watch – Whale Watching Tour

San Diego offers travelers the rare opportunity to observe whales migrating through its nutrient-rich waters year-round. For help spotting these magnificent sea creatures, hop aboard a tour with San Diego Whale Watch. The company's three-hour whale watching cruise features live narration from a certified marine biologist, along with indoor and outdoor seating, a snack bar and beverages. Reviewers report spotting plenty of whales and dolphins and praise the clean boat. Others say the crew is well-versed in the bay's marine life and describe the trip as educational.

Morning tours depart at 9 a.m.; afternoon tours depart at 12:30 p.m. Tickets start at $48 for adults and $44 for children 17 and younger and seniors 62 and older. Sunset cruises are also available.

Santa Barbara: Sustainable Wine Tours – Shared Wine Tour

If you're interested in visiting the private vineyards and estates in Santa Barbara 's wine country , consider this seven-hour tour. You and up to seven other travelers will stop at wineries that use small-production techniques and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable, organic and biodynamic agriculture. Travelers say this is a great tour if you want to visit small, family-owned wineries. Reviewers are complimentary of the accommodating, expert guides and say this tour is much more than a wine tasting since you have the chance to meet the producers and owners.

Tickets, which include tasting fees and lunch, start at $193 per person for tours offered Sunday to Friday and $218 per person for Saturday tours. Tours are generally available daily, with pickups beginning at 10 a.m. Private wine tours are also available.

Palm Springs: Big Wheel Tours – Joshua Tree National Park Jeep Tour

If you're visiting Palm Springs and looking for a rugged adventure, consider this Joshua Tree National Park Jeep tour. You'll ride through the Little San Bernardino Mountains on backcountry trails through the Colorado and Mojave deserts, reaching an elevation of 4,000 feet. Reviewers say the views are incredible and highly rate the guides, who they say provide an engaging commentary about the park's history and the animal and plant species that call it home. Set aside at least four hours for the entire experience.

Tickets cost approximately $180 per person. Tours depart twice daily at 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. and include round-trip hotel transportation from select area hotels. If you're looking for an experience that still gets you out in nature, but isn't as adrenaline-fueled, consider the company's biking and hiking tours.

Carmel: Carmel Food Tours – Carmel-by-the-Sea Classic Food Tour

Taste your way through Carmel on this three-hour food tour. Stops along the way may include a farm-to-table restaurant, a bakery, a honey company and a tavern, for a total of up to seven tastings. As you digest between each location, your guide will share stories of Carmel's history and architecture, and offer recommendations for the remainder of your visit. Travelers are particularly impressed with the guides, who they describe as smart, funny and informative.

Tours are generally available Friday and Saturday at 11 a.m., though an additional Thursday morning tour is offered from May to October. Tickets cost approximately $110 per person. If you'd prefer to explore Carmel on two wheels rather than your own two feet, consider the company's Carmel Bikes, Bites & Bevs tour.

Monterey: Monterey Bay Whale Watch – Daily Trips

The Monterey Submarine Canyon offers a rich feeding ground for whales, which is why travelers can often spot these gentle giants year-round. Though you may be able to view whales from the shore, a boat tour like the ones offered by Monterey Bay Whale Watch is the best way to see them. Four-hour morning cruises and up to 3 1/2-hour afternoon cruises are offered all year long. January through March is the best time to see gray whales, dolphins and killer whales, while humpback, blue and killer whales can often be spotted April through December. Reviewers appreciate the onboard marine biologist and the cleanliness of the boat. Many call this the highlight of their trip to Monterey .

Ticket prices vary by season and by day of the week, but generally, tickets for adults start at $65 for a morning trip and $60 for afternoon tours. For children ages 4 to 12, prices start at $53 for a morning outing and $48 for an afternoon excursion. Children 3 and younger can join for $15. Winter cruises depart at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., with additional tours at 9 a.m. and noon on select Saturdays and Sundays. Spring, summer and fall tours depart at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Eight-hour and 12-hour trips are also available on select days.

Yosemite: Discover Yosemite – Yosemite Full Day Tour

According to reviewers, this tour is a great way to see the highlights of Yosemite in a short amount of time. During the daylong (up to nine-hour) bus tour, you'll see some of the park's top attractions , including Half Dome , Vernal Fall , El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall , among other sights. Tourgoers rave about the expert guides, who they describe as knowledgeable, accommodating and interactive. The tour offers round-trip transportation from communities surrounding Yosemite, including Bass Lake, Coarsegold, Oakhurst and Fish Camp.

Ticket prices vary by season. From Dec. 1 to March 31, tickets start at $180 for participants ages 16 and older and $90 for kids ages 3 to 15; from April 1 to Nov. 30 tickets start at $190 for travelers 16 and older and $95 for children. The cost includes the tour, water, lunch and park fees. Discover Yosemite also offers private tours of the park, among other options.

Los Angeles: A Day in LA Tours – LA City Tour

If you only have a limited amount of time in Los Angeles, consider this daylong bus tour. Over the course of the 7 1/2-hour excursion, you'll see some of the top attractions in Los Angeles, including the Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Original Farmers Market and more. Along the way, your driver (who also doubles as your tour guide), will provide information about the history and current culture of Los Angeles. For many reviewers, their guide's insightful and entertaining commentary was the main reason they'd recommend A Day in LA Tours. Others praise the pacing and organization of the tour and say this is a great way to see a large portion of the city in a short amount of time.

Tours depart daily at 9:45 a.m. Tickets for adults start at $104 and $94 for kids ages 12 and younger; children 2 and younger can tag along for free. The tour price includes bottled water and round-trip transportation from your Los Angeles hotel. The company also offers a version of this tour that departs from Anaheim – perfect for if you need a day away from Disneyland .

San Francisco: Cruisin' the Castro Walking Tours – LGBTQ Castro Tour

If you've ever wondered how San Francisco's Castro District became synonymous with gay culture, you'll want to add this tour to your itinerary. During the two-hour LGBTQ Castro Tour, you'll learn how the LGBTQ community dates back to the California gold rush, the history of the iconic rainbow flag and the AIDS epidemic. Among the sites you'll visit are Harvey Milk Plaza and the Rainbow Honor Walk. Tourgoers applaud the guides for their informative and engaging storytelling and say the tour is an important, and at times emotional, experience if you're interested in LGBTQ and San Francisco history.

Tours are available Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday at 10 a.m. Tickets start at $30 for participants ages 5 and older. The company notes that adult situations and sexual content are referenced during the tour, so parental discretion is advised. Tours meets at the corner of Castro and Market streets.

San Francisco: Best Bay Area Tours – Hidden Gems of Yosemite Day Trip

According to reviewers, the Hidden Gems of Yosemite Day Trip is a great addition to any San Francisco visit. The tour, which is limited to 15 participants, picks you up at your San Francisco hotel before taking you on a scenic drive to the national park. Once inside the park, you'll enjoy free time at famous sights like Yosemite Falls where you can either follow the company's hiking suggestions or simply enjoy a picnic. From March to November, you'll also enjoy a guided hike through the Tuolumne Grove . Tourgoers speak highly of the passionate guides, who they describe as experts in all things Yosemite. What's more, reviewers say guides are quick to share their favorite photo spots and even play photographer. In total, the entire excursion lasts about 14 hours.

Tickets, which include round-trip hotel transportation, cost approximately $200 per person ages 13 and older and $150 per child 12 and younger. Lunch is not provided, but the bus will make several stops for tourgoers to purchase water, snacks and lunch. Best Bay Area Tours also offers trips to Sonoma, Sausalito and the Russian River Valley, among other locales.

San Francisco: Red and White Fleet – California Twilight Cruise

Many travelers call the California Twilight Cruise the highlight of their trips to San Francisco. During the 90-minute cruise, you'll sail past Alcatraz and under the Golden Gate and Bay bridges as you admire views of the San Francisco skyline. Reviewers recommend dressing warmly and arriving early to board so that you can score a seat on the top deck of the boat for the best views.

Tickets cost approximately $50 for adults and $40 for children ages 5 to 17. During the summer months, cruises depart daily; during the fall and winter months, trips are only available Thursday through Sunday. Departure times vary by month. Prefer to admire the city during the day? Red and White Fleet also offers two daytime cruises ranging from one hour to 90 minutes.

Sonoma: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley – Sonoma Wine Tours

Visit a total of three Sonoma wineries on this six-hour wine trolley tour. Each stop includes a semiprivate tasting with a winery representative who is on hand to answer any questions and give a background of the winery. Locations you may visit include Jacuzzi Family Vineyards , Mayo Family Winery and Valley of Moon Winery, among others. Reviewers say this is a great way to see the area and appreciate the knowledgeable, personable guides. Tours are generally available daily and depart from Sonoma Plaza at 10 a.m. You'll return to the plaza around 4:30 p.m.

Trolley tickets start at $115 per person. Note that while lunch and bottled water are included, tasting fees at the wineries are not; tasting fees range from $25 to $35 per person. If you do not pay the tasting fee, you won't be allowed in the winery. Tourgoers must be 21 years or older.

Los Angeles: Bikes and Hikes LA – Griffith Observatory Hike

Spending time in Griffith Park is one of the top things to do in Los Angeles. If you're intimidated by the park's more than 4,000 acres, consider signing up for the Griffith Observatory Hike from Bikes and Hikes LA. During the 2 1/2-hour, 3.5-mile hike, you'll trek to one of the highest peaks in the park, snap plenty of pictures of the iconic Hollywood Sign and enjoy skip-the-line access to Griffith Observatory. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable, entertaining guides and say this hike is strenuous, but manageable. Along with the views, travelers appreciate the amount of history guides share during the tour, as well their recommendations for other things to see and do in LA. Tours are available twice daily at 10 a.m. and sunset. The sunset tour meeting time varies depending on the time of year, but generally it departs at 3 p.m. from November to mid-March and at 4:30 p.m. from mid-March to November.

Tickets start at $28 per person. Note that the tour is only recommended for participants ages 6 years and older (strollers are not permitted). If you're short on time, the company also offers abbreviated 90-minute hikes. Prefer to explore on two wheels? Bike tours are also available.

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San Francisco: Extranomical Tours – Redwoods and California Wine Country Tour

Visit Muir Woods National Monument , Napa Valley and Sonoma on this approximately 10-hour daytrip from San Francisco. The guided bus tour includes time to explore the giant redwoods in Muir Woods, wine tastings in both Napa and Sonoma and plenty of photo stops along the way. Tourgoers rave about the guides, who they describe as engaging, funny and informative. Reviewers also assure that the tour never feels rushed and that you're given plenty of time at each stop to explore. Tours depart daily at 7:30 a.m.

Tickets start at $159 for participants ages 12 and older and $122 for children ages 6 to 11. Note: While tasting fees at the wineries are included, entrance to Muir Woods and lunch are not. You have the option to buy lunch on your own or pay extra to add lunch to your booking. Extranomical Tours offers a variety of excursions to Yosemite, San Francisco and Monterey.

Palm Desert: Red Jeep Tours – San Andreas Fault "Bones of the Earth" Jeep Tour

This tour manages to appeal to history buffs, geology nerds and adrenaline junkies all at the same time. During the three-hour Jeep ride, your guide will maneuver through the geological cuts and canyons of the San Andreas Fault Zone. You'll also get out and hike between the canyons, and enjoy a guided tour through a recreated Cahuilla Indian village. Reviewers describe guides as informative and say this trip offers much more than scenery – expect to learn about the geology of the area, as well as the history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who once occupied this land. Tours are offered at 8 a.m. daily. An additional 1 p.m. tour is available from October to May.

Tickets start at $150 for adults ages 18 and older and $135 for children ages 3 to 17. The company also offers Jeep and hiking tours to Joshua Tree National Park and Painted Canyon, among other locations.

Los Angeles: Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Warner Bros. Studio on this approximately three-hour tour. You'll cruise around the lot on a custom tour cart to see backlot sets and additional production areas. You'll also have free time to explore the "Stage 48: Script to Screen" exhibit, which includes the Central Perk set from "Friends," as well as "The Big Bang Theory" sets, classic costumes and more. Your tour concludes at "Action and Magic Made Here," which showcases recreated sets, props and costumes from the DC Universe and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Reviewers give this tour high marks for its informative, entertaining guides. Tourgoers also praise the amount of sets, costumes and props on display.

Tours are available Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $70 for participants ages 11 and older and $60 for children ages 5 to 10.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best San Diego Tours
• The Best Hollywood Tours
• The Best Los Angeles Tours
• The Best San Francisco Tours
• The Best Resorts in California

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , California , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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