indiana dunes Two blocks south of Lake Merritt, the Oakland Museum of California incorporates just about everythin

Two blocks south of Lake Merritt, the Oakland Museum of California incorporates indiana dunes just about everything you d want to know about the state and its people, history, culture, geology, art, environment, and ecology. Inside a low, modern building set among sweeping gardens and terraces, it s actually three museums in one: exhibitions of works by California artists indiana dunes from Bierstadt to Diebenkorn; collections of historic artifacts, from Pomo Indian basketry to Country Joe McDonald s guitar; and re-creations of California habitats from the coast to the mountains. The museum holds major shows of California artists and exhibitions dedicated to major California movements and also frequently shows photography from its huge collection.

or early March. Mustard Festival, Napa Valley. Celebrating the blossom of yellow- petaled mustard flowers, which coat the valley during February indiana dunes and March, the event was conceived to drum up visitors during this once- slow season. The festival has evolved into 6 weeks of events from a kickoff gourmet gala to a wine auction, recipe and photography competitions, and plenty of food and wine. For information and a schedule, call & 707/259-9020 or 707/938-1133, or visit www. mustardfestival.com. February and March.

A federal and state wildlife refuge, Angel Island is the largest of the San Francisco Bay s three islets (the others being Alcatraz and Yerba Buena). The island has been a prison, a quarantine station for immigrants, a missile base, and even a site for duels. Nowadays, though, most of the people who visit here are content with picnicking on the large green lawn that fronts the docking area. Loaded indiana dunes with the necessary recreational supplies, they claim a barbecue, plop their fannies down on the lush green grass, and while away an afternoon free of televisions and traffic. Hiking, mountain biking, and guided tram tours are also popular activities.

Cityscape When you sit under the glass roof and sip a drink here, it feels as though you re out under the stars and enjoying views of the bay. There s nightly dancing to a DJ s picks from 10pm. The mirrored columns and floor-to-ceiling draperies help create an elegant and romantic ambience. Atop Hilton Tower I, 333 O Farrell St. (at Mason St.), 46th floor. & 415/923-5002.