We're letting the secret out. Check out these awesome secret and hidden bars in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Impress your date with you insider knowledge of these amazing bars and quickly become the life of the party!

Secret Bars in San Francisco

Burbon & Branch

Enter here to take a step back into the 1920's. Make sure you take a gander at their House Rules (some of which include speaking "easy", no use of cell phones, and no standing at the bar). If you can find your way around these, make Burbon & Branch your next late night diversion. Flickr by Sarai Mitnick Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency The website for the Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency (the speakeasy within Burbon & Branch) is pretty amazing (trust us, it's worth a visit).  Their fun and slightly encrypted case file-style webpage makes it clear that appointments are needed, along with the proper password, if you want to take part in "solving the case" or maybe buying a drink or two. Flickr by Sarai Mitnick Russells Room @ Burbon & Branch Enter through a bookshelf to this additional room in Burbon & Branch. Again, a password is required. Flickr by Luigi Anzivino

Smugglers Cove

Boasting "traditional drinks of the Caribbean Island" and so much more, this pirates paradise offers over 70 cocktails and has an atmosphere to put even the most discerning pirate fanatic at ease. It may not be secret, but the entrance to this three-level bar is hidden in plain sight without much to draw attention to it. Keep a weather eye out, matey. Flickr by stephanie vacher

The Hideout at Dalva

Hip. Trendy. Hidden. The Hideout at Dalva is another bar within a bar. Tucked away in the back of the Dalva, The Hideout has everything you'll want in a secret, hidden bar. Their Facebook page won't give you much helpful information, but this article at Party Earth will. From The Hideout (at Dalva) Facebook Page

Secret Bars in Los Angeles

The Varnish

Located at the back of Cole's, The Varnish has a speakeasy style to suit the most discerning tastes. It's a must visit when looking to experience secret bars. From Yelp by Christine A.

Blind Barber

Need a haircut...and a drink? The Blind Barber is for you. You reach this fun, vintage bar through the back door of the functioning barbershop and will experience an intimate speakeasy atmosphere. From Yelp

Good Times at Davey Wayne's

By far the most bizarre way to enter a bar--ever--you get to Good Times at Davey Wayne's by entered through a garage and, get this, a refrigerator door entrance. This 70's themed bar boasts comfy seating like outdoor couches and hammocks in addition to playing vintage 70's music. It's fun and a great secret bar in Hollywood! From Yelp by Alice L.

The Writer's Room

You don't have to be the future Hemingway to enjoy this 1930's inspired speakeasy located behind Musso & Frank, but you do have to be on "the list" (though it seems you may be able to make it in on flattery alone...?). From Yelp by Michael S.

Secret Bars in San Diego

Nobel Experiment

Even their website is secretive and leaves you wondering what you're in for with a visit to Nobel Experiment. All we can tell you is that it's recommended you make a reservation. Thrillist divulges that you send in a text to obtain a reservation and show up during a 15 minute window to enter through what looks like a wall of kegs in order to enjoy some of the best drinks in San Diego! From Yelp by Kent D.

Gaslamp Speakeasy

As long as you remember these simple rules,"No Religion. No Politics." you'll be good-to-go at the Gaslamp Sepakeasy. They also require a few other rules to be followed, but nothing that will keep you from having a good time. Come enjoy drinks and live music at this hidden gem. From Yelp by Ingrid I

Prohibition

If you've found a door advertizing, "Law Offices of Eddie O’Hare, Esq." you've come to the right place. You'll need to agree to house rules and then, depending on availability, you'll enter into this popular San Diego speakeasy. It's first come first serve and a dress code is enforced, but completely worth it to enjoy live music, amazing drinks, and a truly fantastic atmosphere. From Yelp by Jean L.   Cover Photo from Flickr by Jonathan Ball Source: Thrillist, Huffington Post, Yelp

We've posted about In-N-Out and it's true, we do love their burgers, but we know they aren't the only burger place in California. We thought we'd welcome the coming of summer by compiling a list of the best burger places in California to get your mouth watering and to give you some possible road trip destinations.

Best Burgers in California

Etna Brewery, Etna

Enjoy a local brew and a fantastic burger at this Northern California local favorite. You can go old-school with a cheese burger or kick it up a notch with their well known Ortega Burger! Flickr by Zane Mulligan

Burgers & Brew, Sacramento

Grab a brew. Grab a burger.  Grab some friends and head on over to Burgers & Brew in Sacramento. With award winning brews and burgers (we're talking Best Burger in Yolo county!), you can't go wrong. Flickr by Angelo DeSantis

Pearl's Deluxe Burgers, San Francisco

The Yelp enthusiasts dub Pearl's Deluxe burgers to have one of the best burgers in California! Check it out for yourself and see if you agree. Flickr by hermitsmoores

Super Duper Burgers, San Francisco

They boast "Fast food burgers, slow food values" and what could be better than that? Everything's all natural and a lot of what they offer is made right there in the shop. Hop on over and check it out. Flickr by wEnDy

Zuni Cafe, San Francisco

Hidden amidst an impressive menu, you may not initially think of Zuni Cafe as a "burger place" but if what we're hearing is right, they offer an amazing (albeit high-end) burger! Flicker by Jason Hamner

Burger Lunge, Tahoe

Another Yelp reviewers favorite, this burger joint is the place to be this summer if you're in the Tahoe area. Make sure you come prepared to take your time selecting because they have an impressive lists of burgers to choose from. Flickr by Lauren

Hook Burger Bistor, Southern California Locations

The minute you take a bike of a Hook burger, you're sure to be hooked ;) We also love that they support many different causes. This is an all-around great burger place and definitely a great addition to your summer list. Flickr by Doran

Get the Burger, Big Bear

This home-grown burger place is a classic and just what you need whether you're enjoying summer hiking and tanning at the lake or shredding the slopes in the winter! Flickr by Jennifer

Lucky's Tavern, Hollywood

Lucky's boasts "made from scratch - artisan burgers" and is a prime spot for great beer and great burgers! From Lucky's Tavern

Umami, San Francisco and Southern California

With the trademark "U" stamped onto the top of their buns, Umami is in a class all its own. With many locations in Southern California and the bay area, you have no excuse to avoid a satisfying and delicious trip to Umami soon (today maybe?). Flickr by Larry

The Father's Office, Los Angeles

This Gastropub created by Chef Sang Yoon features their most popular burger, the "Office Burger". It's also a great place for beer with an European influenced atmosphere. Flickr by Daremoshiranai

Stout, Los Angeles

Stout offers affordable burgers to discerning Los Angeles foodies. Make a trek to discover their amazing gruyere and blue cheese burger toppings among other additions that make these burgers delicious  and some of the best burgers in California. Flickr by Drew Hubbard-Ben Waters

Mom's Burgers, Compton

They aren't healthy, and maybe sometimes they look a little overwhelming, but Mom's Burgers will knock your socks off! They are a must-have! From LA Weekly

Burger Boss, Riverside & Corona

With the option to order on line, natural ingredients, gluten free options, and so much more, how could we not put Burger Boss on a best burgers in California list? Flickr by Gabriel Amadeus

Dave's Burgers, Long Beach

At 4.5 starts on Yelp, you know that Dave's Burgers is the place to be! It's small and out of the way, but definitely worth a stop if you're in the Long Beach area. From Yelp by Louie B.

Rocky's Crown Pub, San Diego

The first thing you'll see on their website is this claim, " Welcome to Rocky's, home of the best burgers in San Diego" - couldn't get any clearer than that, could you? But their legend goes beyond just their website! Any local will tell you they've got what it takes to make the list of the best burgers in California! Flickr by Kirk K

Did we miss your favorite burger place? Tell us about it in the comments below!   Cover Photo from Flickr by James Source: Yelp, Thrillist, LA Weekly, We Be Trippin'

Hot summer days are upon us and we here at California Limited are all screaming for ice cream! In search of the perfect, icy-cold treat, we've compiled a list of 15 popular California ice cream parlors that you just have to visit.

15 Popular California Cream Parlors

Milk

This classic Los Angeles establishment has it all - including great reviews. If you're in Southern California, a trip to Milk must be on your list! From MILK

N'ice Cream

With a few Southern California store options to choose from, find a N'ice Cream near you and get ready to enjoy organic, frozen goodness! Ok, so it's gelato...it's almost ice cream ;) Flickr by Tiny Insomniac

Scoops Westside

Get the scoop on Scoops Westside in East Hollywood from their simple website and awesome commercial (really, you've got to check it out). They claim handmade dairy and non-dairy options and take suggestions for flavors from patrons. Flickr by Liliana Fuchs

Screamin Mimi's

Screamin Mim's makes the  popular California ice cream parlors list due to its ice cream made fresh daily from all-natural and local Sonoma products. Flickr by St0rmz

Gunther's Quality Ice

Founded in 1940, Gunther's is still around for a reason. If you're in Sacramento, make sure you grab a picture of "Jugglin' Joe", the stores neon sign that shows "Joe" tossing a ball of ice cream onto a cone. Flickr by Thomas Hawk

Bi-Rite Creamery and Bakeshop

This popular San Francisco ice cream parlor and bakeshop boasts hand made (down to the fun, mixed in ingredients like brownies or peanut brittle) ice cream that will blow you away with its surprising flavors and unique combinations. Flickr by Keith McDuffee

Mr. & Mrs. Miscellaneous

Gaining rave reviews on yelp and Facebook, another well-known San Francisco ice cream parlor is Mr. & Mrs. Miscellaneous.  They are reported to have unusual but delightfully tasty flavors. Flickr by joel kabahit

Fenton's Creamery

If you've seen Disney's Up, you may remember Fenton's Creamery from it. Located in San Francisco, this ice cream parlor is worth a visit for its long-standing history alone, not to mention it's delicious frozen treats! From askmissa.com

Loard’s Ice Cream

Founded in 1950, Loard's Ice Cream in San Leandro is a standing testament to old fashioned ice cream. It had to be included in our list! Flickr by cherrypatter

Tara’s Organic Ice Cream

Organic and offering flavors you've never dreamed of, Tara's Organic Ice Cream (TOIC) can be found in Oakland, Berkeley, Pleasanton, a mobile trike (we're not even kidding), and many other locations that serve their fun flavors. There is no way around trying their amazing flavors! Flickr by Jessica Merz

Mitchell’s Ice Cream

This San Francisco, family-owned ice cream parlor makes their flavors daily and in small batches to guarantee freshness. Flickr by madlyinlovewithlife

Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour

Historic and timeless, Farrell's has a location in Sacramento and many locations in Southern California. Flickr by cerebralvista

Sprinkles Ice Cream

Known for their cupcakes, Sprinkles ice cream is just as popular. Stop by their Beverly Hills location and you just may see a Hollywood celebrity there! From Sprinkles

Hans' Homemade Ice Cream

Locally sourced and handmade, this Santa Ana ice cream shop will give you the perfect ice cream cone to put a smile on your face! Flickr by ulterior epicure

Ici Ice Cream

Ici Ice makes everything from only the best organic products right down to their vanilla beans. Stop by this Berkeley shop and enjoy a cool and sweet treat. Flickr by Kelly Bone We've shared our favorites, but did we miss yours? Let us know some of the popular California ice cream parlors you like to visit in the comments below!

Cover Photo: Flickr by madlyinlovewithlife Source: Red Tricycle, CBS Los Angeles

Summer is finally here! You've packed up the car and are ready to head out on a great adventure, but you may find yourself wondering exactly where to go. North, South, the beach, the mountains...? The questions are endless. Don't worry though - California has everything (and more) that you'd want for the best summer vacation! Below you'll find 25 amazing California road trip destinations as well as some fun places to stop along the way to add to your list.

California Road Trip Destinations

Northern California

Battery Point Lighthouse in Crescent City

This lighthouse and museum is a great stop if you happen to be in (or traveling through) Northern California. Flickr by David A. Hoffmann

California Redwood Parks

We've raved about the beautiful California Redwoods before, but they are worth adding to another list! Some of our favorites include: Jedediah Smith State Park and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (find out more here). align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Flickr by keppet

Old Town Eureka

Traveling down the coast from Crescent City, you'll come to Eureka. Old Town Eureka is definitely worth a visit, especially the beautiful an historic Carson Mansion! Flickr by Kay Gaensler

Hiking in Mt. Shasta

Over a little ways from the coast is Mt. Shasta. Usually a destination for winter snowboarders and skiiers, Mt. Shasta has a lot to offer to summer hikers. Check out this website for tons of mapped trails! Flickr by Kei Noguchi

Historic Placerville

A less likely place to visit, Placerville is a great stop if you're on your way to Tahoe or feel like taking a day trip from the Sacramento area. With its historic buildings, free stage coach rides (the third Saturday of each month), and fine dining, Placerville has a lot going on! Check out the cities website for more events. Flickr by Wayne Hsieh

Napa Valley Wine Country

Make Napa Valley one of your California road trip destinations this summer! Find actives, wine tours, and spas to build a road trip that is guaranteed to relax you. Flickr by Big D2112

Hearst Castle

Be enchanted and overwhelmed by the stunning Hearst Castle. Flickr by Zengame

Pacific Crest Trail

Spanning over 1500 miles through California (and moving on into Oregon and Washington) the Pacific Crest Trail (known as the PCT to serious hikers) is a fantastic summer adventure! Find out more information about the PCT near you on the USDA Forrest Service website. Flickr by Steve Dunleavy

Central California

Old Town Sacramento and the California State Railroad Museum

Make your way through the historic streets of Old Town Sacramento and stop off at the California State Railroad Museum. You'll find lots of things to see and do whether you're from Sacramento or just visiting for the summer! Flickr by Jack Snell

San Fransisco Fisherman's Wharf

The bark of a seal and the salty breeze of Fisherman's Wharf is sure to satisfy your road trip curiosity this summer! Try the fresh seafood as well - trust us, it's some of the best you'll have! Flickr by aaron arseneau

Golden Gate Bridge

While you're visiting San Fransisco, make a stop (or drive over) the Golden Gate Bridge. Walking it takes about 20 minutes one way, and we'd recommend having your ride pick you up at the opposite side to avoid troublesome parking. Flickr by Kevin Cole

Mt. Diablo State Park

Hike up the incredible Mt. Diablo! Make sure to bring lots of water with you - things are dry due to this years drought. Flickr by Keith Cuddeback

South Lake Tahoe

Located next to the Nevada state line, South Lake Tahoe is definitely a road trip destination you won't want to pass up. Flickr by Patrick Nouhailler

Bodie State Historic Park

Visit an historic ghost town at Bodie State Historic Park.Make sure you check out their visiting guide before you go! Flickr by Jim Bahn

Yosemite National Park

If you enjoy being outdoors Yosemite is the destination for you! Check out their hiking guide in advance and plan a great adventure. Flickr by Hide

Big Sur

Camp, enjoy the beach, and find some great restaurants at Big Sur over the summer. Flickr by Trey Ratcliff

Southern California

Route 66

They say you can "Get your kicks on Route 66" so why not take a little road trip on this unmapped (at least by current standards) road? Flickr by Gianluca Bertoncelli

Vasquez Rocks

With rocky peaks and many trails, this heavily photographed LA park is a great day trip destination! Flickr by XavaZ

Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is more of a route than a destination, but you won't be sorry you chose to drive up the coast on the PCH with its stunning ocean views. Flickr by Rachel Kramer

Santa Monica Pier

Ride a roller coaster, lounge on the beach, take a quick walk over to 3rd street. Santa Monica has it all! Flickr by Ross Pollack

Venice Beach Board Walk

Overflowing with street entertainment, unique shops, and endless people-watching, Venice Beach is a fun and entertaining California road trip destination. Flickr by Calvin Fleming

Mission San Juan Capistrano

Make it your mission this summer to visit Mission San Juan Capistrano (or any of the other California missions!). Flickr by Sharon Mollerus

Palm Springs & Joshua Tree National Park

Whether you're golfing, spending time at Joshua Tree National Park, or taking advantage of your hotels pool, Palm Springs won't dissapoint. Flickr by Merton Wilton

USS Midway in San Diego

Climb aboard this floating museum and enjoy all-day fun! Give yourself about 3 hours to complete the self-guided tour and don't forget your camera. Flickr by Cameron Grant

San Diego Zoo

Come spend the day with the animals of the San Diego Zoo! Flickr by (left) Russ May (right) Linda California is a huge state and we know we've probably skipped some of your favorite places. Where are you going this summer? Any place we should know about? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!   Cover photo Flickr by Kay Gaensler Source: The Grandest Road Trip, Tripit, Moon Travel Guides,

 

header photo by:

www.ericdemarcq.com

Nothing can beat a juicy hamburger after you've spent a long day at the beach. The wonderful, gooey cheese, the flavorful beef, and let's not forget the special sauce. If you don't know what we're talking about, then you've never experienced a California staple: In-N-Out!

Check out these 20 things that make In-N-Out great!

1. Fresh Matters       

In-N-Out opened in 1948 at the corner of Francisquito and Garvey in Baldwin Park and the owner personally shopped for the best ingredients and made everything by hand! Now that is how you make a burger! To this day, none of In-N-Out's food is pre-packaged or frozen.

2. History

Flickr - Tommaso Galli In-N-Out was California's first drive through. At In-N-Out, there is no need to even get out of your car, just drive right up to the window and enjoy a meal made fresh just for you. The helpful In-N-Out workers even ask if you'll be dinning in your car or taking it home! Flickr - Steve Lyon

3. Combinations

Flickr - Simon Willison Looking for a little variety in your hamburger selection? Choose your personal meat to cheese ratio up to a 4x4 which is four meat patties and four slices of cheese. Or get adventurous and cut back on the meat or the cheese. Just remember, meat first, cheese after. Example: 3x4 means 3 patties x 4 slices of cheese.

4. Secrets

Flickr - Cory Gurman In-N-Out offers more than their typical menu. They have a Secret Menu! You can order fun things like yellow chillies, animal fries (which includes grilled onions and their special sauce), bun doughnuts, protein style (no bun, just lettuce) or even a root beer float!

5. Welcome to the 60s

Flickr - @kevinv033 The animal style hamburger was first introduced in 1961 at the request of a customer. To make this creation, they stack up lettuce, tomato, pickle, grilled onions, and extra spread topped off by a mustard-cooked beef patty. Delicious.

6. Just the way you like it

Flickr - Matt DeTurck Most don't know, but you can order your patty's medium rare!!! Now that you know, you have to try it!

7. Back to School

Flickr - gadgetude There is an In-N-Out University! It sounds a little like a hamburger paradise, but in reality it was created in 1984 on the site where In-N-Out founder Harry Snyder's house once stood, and was a training facility for store managers.

8. Bottoms Up

Flickr - Justin Green There are Bible verse references on the bottom of every cup and on hamburger wrappers. Just remember to finish your drink before you check ;)

9. Cheese, Cheese, Cheese

Serious Eats - J. Kenji Lopez You have the option to order cold cheese. Not sure why you wouldn't want the melty-goodness, but hey, there's an option for everyone at In-N-Out which is just another thing that makes In-N-Out greatt!

10. Fries, Fries, Fries

Flickr - mayka If you like fries, you'll LOVE In-N-Out's fries. Try them extra crispy (fries well done), animal style (with grilled onions and special sauce), or even cheese fries (with cheese on top). Flickr - supercake

11. Sweet Tooth

Flickr - Justin Green You have the option of ordering a Neopolitan shake which combines chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Yum!

12. Vegetarian Options

Flickr - Sharona790 Not a fan of hamburgers? Only eat vegetarian? Not to worry, In-N-Out has you covered. You can order a grilled cheese or a veggie burger!

13. Seeing Double

Flickr - jbhalper In 1963, the "Double Double" (2 meat patties and 2 cheese slices) was first advertized. Today, it's common knowledge and a favorite for many In-N-Out fans.

14. Julia Child

Flickr - Thomas Hawk Apparently, Julia Child was also a huge In-N-Out fan (she knew what was up!). She was reported to always have a list of stores with her just in case...

15. Among the Rich and Famous

Lynsi Torres, granddaughter to In-N-Out founders, Esther and Harry Snyder,  has been recognized as one of the youngest female multimillionaires!

16. Hidden Treasure

Flickr-Joshua Bousel Ever noticed how there always seems to be crossed palm trees outside of In-N-Out? That's no accident! The tradition started in 1972 to mark each store as Harry Snyder's special treasure (taken from his love of the move It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World).

17. Sit down and enjoy

Flickr - brian wallace Until 1979 In-N-Out was strictly a drive-through restaurant. The 21st restaurant in Ontario was the first to introduce a seating area and has made In-N-Out what we know and love it to be today!

18. Worth it

Flickr - Jeroen Elfferich Considering a job at In-N-Out? One of the things that make's In-N-Out great is the fact that they are more than fair to their employees. A manager at In-N-Out makes over $100,000 a year and their employee starting wage is $10.50 an hour. It's no wonder they have the lowest turnover rates in the fast food market. People like working at In-N-Out, can you blame them?

19. Fan Merch

That's right. In-N-Out even has a fan merchandise. They have everything from sandals to hats, T-shirts to onesies. They even have a travel mug which means there is no reason you can't sport your In-N-Out pride on a weekly (maybe even daily) basis.

20. Happy Birthday

Flickr - Dave Gunn In-N-Out just celebrate it's 60th birthday! When it was first started by Harry and Esther Snyder, they set up principles by which they would run their business and those principles have stayed firm through 60 years. Now if that doesn't make In-N-Out great, I don't know what does!   Cover Photo: Flickr - Brian Wallace Source 1, Source 2