Southern California

Southern California spans the state’s ten southernmost counties. In 1821, the region became part of the new Mexican nation, reflecting its indigenous and Spanish roots. After the present-day border was set in 1848 and statehood passed in 1850, Southern California’s Latino population influenced the culture of the evolving American nation. The Hollywood glamour of Los Angeles County, rugged landscapes of Death Valley National Park, and surf culture of San Diego have long captured the nation’s imagination. Heritage sites have preserved Southern California’s frontier ghost towns, Spanish missions, centuries-old ranches, and roadside “Googie” architecture of Route 66. Whether wine tasting in the region’s agricultural sectors, sampling global food cultures in the cities, touring world-class museums, or relaxing on palm‑tree‑lined beaches, there is no shortage of things to experience in Southern California.