John I would suggest one of my favorite places in the USA Yosemite National Park, and the Mariposa Grove is 20 mins. out side the park. This grove of over 500 gaint sequoias is fantastic some trees over 2,700 yrs. old and over 200 feet tall with a base of over 28 feet, Just some much fun to see. I've taken my kids and grandkids, and visitors many times. Yosemite valley is fun and falls this year are increditable. Free shuttle bus from the Yosemite valley. If you have 3 day's take a tour from Oakland, or rwnt a car if you are not driving. Hotels in the valley need a 6 month advance reservation in the summer, but you can stay outside the park, or tour's have rooms. A lot of things for everyone to do. One ni9ght and two half days are OK. But 2 nights better. The park is about 140 miles fropm Oakland.