Hipmunk Hotels: Inexpensive Hotels in Roseville, Sacramento, Santa Barbara, and more
California is most often associated with sun, beach, wine, and the cultural riches of world-class cities Los Angeles and San Francisco. There’s definitely a lot of that in the Golden State, but the region has even more strings to its bow, and less-obvious destinations provide further opportunities for discovery and entertainment. Staying in one of the following alternative locales will also allow you to spend less money and to enjoy a quieter trip, making for a more relaxed way to explore the region’s attractions.
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Roseville
Located less than 20 miles north of Sacramento, Roseville is a good place to lay down for the night within easy reach of the city, yet far away to escape the urban bustle. Here you will find a range of hotels offering great value, many of them equipped with leisure amenities such as swimming pools, bar areas, and fitness centers at non-inflated prices. Whether on a professional or personal trip, you can enjoy the city’s proximity to the business district and Sacramento’s attractions, as well as to Roseville’s own, including the Miners Ravine Trail Loop and Golfland Sunsplash.
Sacramento
As California’s capital, the historical city of Sacramento packs countless architectural curiosities, museums, and outdoors activities. It’s also the starting point for several wine and brewery tours, and it serves as a cultural hub with an interesting nightlife. In short, there’s a lot to take in, so it’s a good thing hotel options for all budgets abound. Indeed, Sacramento offers a choice of more than 15 hotels with nightly rates between $60 and $80 all-included, as well as luxury establishments such as the Westin Sacramento, with everything else in-between. Set up camp in one of them and take the time to explore the city’s sights.
Santa Barbara
A gorgeous setting between the sea and the Santa Ynez Mountains; stunning beaches; surfing spots; art and culture galore; extensive shopping opportunities; historical landmarks; Spanish colonial architecture; wineries; summer events; a dynamic university vibe: name it and the beautiful, happening coastal city of Santa Barbara on the American Riviera has it! This is a true gem of a destination, and the variety of hotels on offer – some of which are historical sites in their own right – lets you experience it fully. While hotels are not always cheap in this prized holiday city, there are deals to be bagged if travelling midweek, off-season, or staying in certain areas around town.
Chula Vista
Chula Vista means “beautiful view” in Spanish, so you know the location of this coastal town cradled between the San Diego Bay and the mountains must be scenic! The area also teems with things to do, and there are many budget hotels spread around the city to give you easy access to top attractions such as the SleepTrain Amphitheatre, the marina, the Living Coast Discovery Center, Chicano Park, Mission Bay Park, and the Silver Strand State Beach. Great value hotels closer to the airport are also perfect gateways to the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, Coronado Island, golf courses, and whale-watching trips.
Carlsbad
Carlsbad’s nickname as the “village by the sea” testifies to its picturesque charm, but this little beach town blessed with a year-round perfect climate and gorgeous strips of sand and resorts has more to offer than the average village. The plethora of activities available includes the family favorite Legoland California Resort, water sports, microbrewery tours, a Go Kart track, and the Museum of Making Music. However, Carlsbad also retains some of its small village feel, with a weekly farmer’s market and concert. All in all it’s a winning destination for adults and children alike and there are scores of well-priced hotels and resorts to take advantage of in the best locations, including the Legoland Hotel in the very heart of the Legoland park.
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