10 Gorgeous Northern California Towns To Visit In 2023
Prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime as you plan your next adventure to these ten gorgeous Northern California towns before this year comes to an end. From stunning main streets to historical architecture and breathtaking scenery, your senses will be stimulated, and memories to last a lifetime are just one trip away. When you are done taking in all the sights, take a breather in these towns' enchanting cafes, restaurants, and shops, which will keep you entertained for days on end.
Solvang
Step back in time and right into this stunning European dream town, as you enter the Danish Capital Of America. With its population of just over 6000, being in this tiny spot on Earth will have you feeling like you are part of something extraordinary. Founded in 1911, this historic small town features side by side buildings that line its main streets with traditional Danish architecture. Known for it's beautiful inns, wineries and museums, you will surely find your time in Solvang unlike any other. Experience The Elverhøj Museum where Danish heritage is told, before taking a walk through the Vintage Motorcycle Museum that will have you wanting more from your next road trip across the country. Finish your day off at one of the 20 local winery tasting rooms located downtown or take a self guided wine tour through the Santa Ynez Valley.
Carmel-By-The-Sea
The self proclaimed Artistic & Cultural Hub of Northern California, this stunning sea-side town is home to only 3,400 residents and holds a history like no other. During your stay, explore the Library of Mission Carmel established in 1770 to learn about its rich history or line up your arrival dates to experience one of the many local events, concerts or art exhibits held at this National Historic Sight & Landmark. Wander down the Scenic Bluff Path to one of California's favorite surf spots on Carmel Beach right to the Carmel River State Beach, known for it's stunning scuba location. Botha historical and scenic masterpiece, Carmel-By-The-Sea is sure to captivate every explorer from young to old and in between.
Nevada City
Escape to Nevada City just 60 miles north of Sacramento, in stunning Nevada County this year to discover what everyone has been talking about. Situated between Lake Tahoe and the Pacific Coast, Nevada City offers more than a good night's sleep. Home to 3100 inhabitants, this quaint little town will make you feel like you have crossed the state line and been whisked away to the Mojave for the weekend. Step back in time and experience the bustling downtown featuring numerous hotels, theaters and saloons that are a perfect preservation of the California Gold Rush era beginning in 1848.
Ferndale
Nothing says picturesque like the view from downtown Ferndale, California. Homes, storefronts, restaurants and bars line the main street in perfectly preserved Victorian buildings. Spend your night staying in one of their many charming and photo-worthy hotels such as Gingerbread Mansion or the 1890's Victoria Inn. Founded in 1852 and home to just under 1400 people, this tiny town will have you begging for more of that old time charm. One hour south of California's Redwood National Park and a 10 minute drive to the breathtaking oceanside cliffs of Centerville Beach, Ferndale is a must visit on this year's most gorgeous Northern California towns.
Mill Valley
Escape the busy city and head just 14 miles north of San Francisco to discover this buzzing hotspot for both scenery and entertainment combined. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Tarn that can be seen from town on any clear day, this historic lumber yard town will make you feel like you've escaped to the mountains of Montana for world class entertainment situated in an incredible forest setting. Home to over 14,000 people, Mill Valley is the place to be in the Bay Area. Come for the hiking, the Napa Valley wine and the relaxation and stay for the incredible shopping, dining and entertainment in the Mill Valley Lumber Yard. This stunning community has taken over a historic lumber mill established in 1892 where you can spend your day in the picturesque out buildings of this once fully functioning mountain mill. Do not miss Mill Valley on your next adventure across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Inverness
North-West of Mill Valley, you can continue on your discovery of Northern California's most gorgeous towns and find yourself in Inverness. Where the Ocean meets Tomales Bay, this interior saltwater town is home to one of the most beautiful streets in the country. Just a turn off of Sir Francis Drake Blvd, outside of town you will find yourself under the tunnel of towering Monterey Cypress trees. These 100 year old trees wrap their branches high across your head for the world's most insta-worthy street photographs. After discovering the natural wonders that surround Inverness, check out the Point Reyes Shipwreck or relax into the early hours of the evening at mouthwatering restaurants like Saltwater Oyster Depot or Tap Room before calling it a night.
Calistoga
This stunning town is home to natural hot springs, healing mud baths and Napa Valley wine tasting you can discover from inside a medieval-style castle. Calistoga, California is an absolute must visit on your next trip through Northern California. Tour the historic Castell Di Amorosa, from its Great Hall to the Wine Library, you will feel like you've been transported to the Tuscan countryside while staying less than two hours from bustling San Francisco. Spend time relaxing in a Geothermal Hot Spring, naturally created powered by active volcanic activity. The Calistoga hot springs are full of natural elements such as sulfur, calcium, and magnesium leaving both your skin and your mind refreshed, balanced and renewed. Choose from any number of stunning inns and resorts to get your rest in the heart of Napa Valley, Calistoga is calling.
Crescent City
Twenty miles south of Oregon, is the rocky oceanside town of aptly named Crescent City, California. With its sandy beach wrapping around the water's edge, this quiet town is home to some of the most gorgeous landscapes, and less than 7000 inhabitants. Spend your days hiking through the stunning Redwoods National State Park, home to some of the worlds largest redwood trees. Explore the California Historical Landmark Battery Point Lighthouse, and get a first hand look at the entry point to the Southern Oregon gold fields during the 1850s. Finish your evening off at SeaQuake Brewing with a pairing of Battery Point Blonde Ale and a bowl of Chef Francisco's homemade clam chowder served in an artisan bread bowl. Nothing says oceanside like a day in Crescent City.
Mount Shasta
Sandwiched between the Black Rock Desert of northern Nevada, and the Pacific Coastal Redwoods State Parks, at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains lays the breathtaking town of Mount Shasta, California. At 3,600 feet above sea level, this postcard worthy giant is said to be a potentially active volcano. With snow capped peaks and forest green wooded base, time spent away in Mount Shasta will have you feeling closer to nature and all Earth's wonders. An outdoor adventurer's dream, Mount Shasta is the perfect getaway for skiing, swimming, hiking, boating, fishing and more. Relax at the stunning Mount Shasta Resort and get your fill at the Mount Shasta Brewing Company or try out a local Alpen Cellars winery.
Fort Bragg
Located three and a half hours North of San Francisco on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by rivers, redwood forests and sandy beaches is Fort Bragg, home to just under 7,000 people and the world famous Glass Beach. Although it is illegal to remove stones from the beach, one can spend hours or even days on end walking its glassy shore and sharing in its beauty. After a day of hiking and glass hunting, stop in at the oldest bar on the Pacific Coast, The Golden West Saloon. In operation since the early 1800's, a prime destination for loggers, this bar, restaurant and brothel also had its own holding cell for anyone that got out of hand. Choose from a large selection of Northern California beers or try your hand at shuffleboard. Fort Bragg California is definitely a spot you'll be Bragging about to all your friends.
Before you book your next city tour, consider hitting the open road and exploring these incredible small town destinations. From old saloons to the world's largest trees and the best Napa Valley wines on the market, Northern California is holding on to some of America's best kept secrets. These top 10 Gorgeous Northern California towns are just waiting to be discovered, hit the open road and experience these unforgettable destinations today.
