I'm in Pennsylvania, but will be headed to the west coast in a few months. I'm considering making a stop for the factory tour - assuming a mere reservation holder is eligible. Has anyone taken the trip recently? I heard it's all on a tram now. Anything else in the area worth checking out? Thanks!
I have also heard that the factory tour is like winning "Willy Wonka's magic ticket".
So, I reached out to the factory, and have been informed by the manager in charge of tours that factory tours are typically available Monday - Thursday, excluding major holidays.
The LAST tour is Monday June 30th as the month of July is completely blacked-out, and tours begin again on Monday August 4th.
PM if you need the contact info.
Other things to check out in North California (my short list):
Muir Woods Monument
Sausalito
San Francisco (at least 3 days)
Harbor Cruise
Alcatraz
Point Lobos
17 Mile Drive
Monterrey Aquarium
Carmel
San Jose Winchester Mansion
Berkeley
Livermore (tons of wind-turbines, every configuration imaginable)
Napa and Sonoma Valley Vineyards
If you have some extra time:
Mid-Coast California, Big Sur Park
Post Ranch Inn (must be guest to be on grounds)
Ventana (right across the road)
Hearst Castle (near Cambria)
Pacific Coast Highway, headed North (inboard-side) from Cambria
Yosemite National Park