Staycation, Staycation, Staycation
Meet RPM PR’s favorite spots for a PTO-worthy getaway in the Central Valley.
With the past two years of travel restrictions and the unpredictability of C*vid closures, staycations and nearby getaways are more appealing than ever. Lucky for residents of California’s sunny Central Valley, options for quick weekend jaunts abound, no matter what you’re looking for. Read on for our local staycation recs, and don’t forget to tag us in your adventures.
For the Bougie Babe
If you’re a gal who enjoys the finer things in life, don’t miss out on a getaway at Chateau du Sureau. This 5-star hotel in Oakhurst, California is truly a hidden gem, and just a quick drive from Fresno and other Valley towns. With a vlog-worthy vibe that feels more Western Europe than West Coast, the Chateau offers beautifully appointed hotel rooms (turn down service and 500 thread-count sheets, please!) and an incredible spa experience. Once you’ve recharged in your suite and indulged in a massage, you can hop over to The Elderberry House for the chef’s tasting menu paired with wines from their epic selection of vintages. The cabernet might even inspire you to sneak away after dinner for a little black jack at Chukchansi, just down the road in Coarsegold.
For the Adventurous Type
Grab your boots and pack up the Subie – there are adventures to be had just a stone’s throw from home! Whether you’re a full blown outdoor enthusiast or a budding Wilderness Girl, Yosemite and its surrounding towns are brimming with staycation options. We love the modern aesthetic and rustic-yet-luxurious lodging at AutoCamp Yosemite, located in nearby Mariposa. This cool kid-approved resort offers cozy Airstream trailers, cabins, and luxury tents to accommodate groups of all sizes. The beautifully designed Base Camp has plenty of provisions to stock your mini fridge, and the gates to the park are a short drive away. 10/10 recommend roasting marshmallows over your personal fire pit while you take in the stars after a day of exploring.
If you’re looking for a more traditional route for your Yosemite trip, you can’t go wrong with The Ahwahnee Hotel or Tenaya Lodge (hello, indoor heated pool and classic mountain vibes).
For the City Chick
For weekends when San Francisco or Los Angeles are just a little too far, you can scratch your city slicker itch with a visit to The Darling Hotel in Visalia or The Padre Hotel in Bakersfield.
The aptly named Darling is an Insta star with good reason – the sleek 1920’s details are picture perfect, and the accommodations have rave reviews. Plus, the transportive rooftop restaurant, Elderwood, provides a fun, urban feel and a view to boot. Start with drinks there and finish with dinner at the famous Vintage Press for the full Visalia experience.
The Padre Hotel in good old Bako is housed in a landmark in the city’s downtown area. The mood is fit for a modern Merle Haggard – chic and cosmopolitan, with just the right amount of Western flair. We are dying for a date night at the hotel’s Belvedere Room restaurant, and have heard great things about the spa offerings, too. Libations and the tres chic atmosphere at the new Foxtail Lounge are also on the top of our Bakersfield to-do list. Don’t feel like braving the 99 for the trip? Make it the true vintage experience and take the train down for your stay.
For the Vintage Lover
If you’re a Fresnan who really wants to stay close to home, look no further than Le Shag Residence. It comes as no surprise that Daughters of Simone co-owner and designer Ash Castanos and her husband Terrence Brown are the vintage-loving geniuses behind this Tower District Airbnb, which is 1970’s inspired and oh-so-boho. Every detail contributes to the vintage vibe, and the central location can’t be beat. Take a walk to see a show at Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater, grab a cup of joe at The Revue or a cocktail at The Howlin’ Wolf, and don’t miss local favorite Ampersand Ice Cream around the corner. We also recommend planning your stay around Art Hop - a monthly evening celebrating the city’s vibrant creative scene. Oh, and dressing the part in flares and fringe is highly encouraged.