10 Slow-Paced Towns to Visit in California
California is not really a hideaway destination, having long attracted tourists and vacationers. With the LA scene and San Francisco receiving a constant string of visitors for fun and landmarks, step away from the big cities and its 840-mile golden coastline. Oak Glen, at over 4,500 above sea level, flaunts colorful mountain trails in the fall, while Nevada City is a unique Victorian-era city. Harboring many towns dotted around scenic and highly varied landscapes, your next escape can be as quick as 50 minutes out of Sacramento in the first historic gold rush town.
Auburn
Incorporated in 1888, this small town stranded along Highway 80 between Sacramento and Truckee merges history and modern culture against the appealing west side of the Sierra Nevada. Only 35 minutes from the state capital, Auburn has it all but the bustle, just a small drive to and from Lake Tahoe’s popular north shore. Frozen in time around landmarks, the downtown reminisces of its Gold Rush era, a long-time favorite pit stop for travelers to get out and breathe. Claiming one of the world's most challenging and historic endurance sports events, the 100-mile Western States trail-running race, the area is also a mecca for mountain bikers. Auburn State Recreation Area, with lacing trails at the confluence of the North and Middle Forks of the American River, is popular for hikes and horseback riding, as well as a whitewater rafting destination.
The local “Gold Crush,” with new vintners and wineries in Placer County, offers plenty of opportunities to relax through nearby tasting rooms, often served by the winemaker. Kick back over Northeast-style “hazy IPAs" at the award-winning Moonraker Brewing Co. in a tasting room and brewery, indoor and outdoor seating, plus food trucks. Also part of the Gold Country’s craft beer boom, Knee Deep serves popular West Coast-style IPAs in the welcoming feel of a local microbrewery, which includes a dog and kid-friendly tasting room. The handsome Old Town district flaunts mom-and-pop boutiques, while art galleries and shops abound in antiques and collectibles. Among cafés and tasty restaurants, stop by Auburn Alehouse for fish-and-shrimp tacos or Old Town Pizza's indulgent deep-dish pies when you join the citrus-scented Mountain Mandarin Festival November 22-24.
Calistoga
Hot springs, cool wines, and a warm Southern welcome, anyone? Nothing says “relaxing escape” like Calistoga, a small town secluded in Napa Valley, an American Viticultural Area (AVA). A hotbed for intimate vacations, Calistoga's B&B, small hotels, and hot springs resorts like Calistoga Spa Hot Springs and the Roman Spa, among other luxury lodgings, some of the world’s best, accentuate the importance of downtime. Jump into a geothermal hot spring to relieve sore muscles or indulge in a spa treatment that melts stress away—think body wraps, massages, and skin-enriching mud baths. The natural beauty inspires while the town’s mineral waters and mineral-rich volcanic ash promote skin hydration and overall relaxation. Sip, spa, and stop at Sharpsteen Museum for a little bit of culture.
If you want to get out and do some sightseeing without strain, the Power Circles of Mt. St. Helena is a scenic spot under the picturesque mountain of five peaks, a beacon for the active in your group with challenging hiking and cycling trails worth the views. Afterward, settle down for some authentic Southern BBQ and drop by the Calistoga Welcome Center for local expert advice, like sightseeing the Old Faithful Geyser of California, the small, scenic namesake of a world-famous Yellowstone's geyser, backdropped by palms and mountains, plus a gift shop with locally made goods. Add in great restaurants, arts, and events with galleries and shops downtown, and then tour the Tuscan castle-inspired vineyard of Castello di Amorosa.
Grass Valley
Blending the Gold Rush history and the sophistication of wine country in the Sierra's foothills, Grass Valley is one of the state's 14 official cultural districts. Some 55 miles north of Sacramento, it inspires a laidback escape amid pine forests and rolling hills, with a number of fly-fishing creeks and streams. It's hard to miss the glowing beacon, Del Oro Theatre, playing current movies in a 1942 building with an art deco 70-foot tower. The renovated circa-1940s Center for the Arts hosts national musicians and California natives, while the circa-1862 Holbrooke Hotel flaunts stone walls in the lobby and the Golden Gate Saloon with a mahogany and marble bar. Watch adventure and nature films during the annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival and sightsee North Star Mining Museum's 30-foot-diameter Pelton Wheel along Wolf Creek.
Dating back to the 1800s, Grass Valley, the state's former richest gold mining town, boasts a legacy in the historic downtown, with imposing Victorian architecture centered on Mill Street, a pedestrian plaza. Its vibrant art scene, historical charm, and peaceful mountain vibe lend a unique edge to crowd-free discoveries, such as an incredible shopping scene, recognized farm-to-table fine dining, and wine culture. Just outside, the 856-acre Empire Mine State Historic Park hosts what was once one of California’s most productive mines, as well as hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails. Boasting an estimated 5.8 million ounces of extracted gold between 1850 and 1956, take a tour through the 367-mile network of shafts and sightsee the 1897 Empire Cottage, a stone English-style manor designed by San Francisco's Willis Polk.
Julian
Between the desert and the coast, Julian is one of the state's most generous small towns in the Cuyamaca Mountains. Overlooking San Diego County from high above, get spoiled by the breathtaking scenery in California just south in Desert View Park. Offering an idyllic getaway in every season, the alpine landscape and bucolic charm spellbind under the warm sun with refreshing cider chilled in your cooler on a scenic picnic. The small town never gets crowded nor disappoints with opportunities for outdoor recreation, like hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife spotting. Founded in 1869 as a gold mining town, it gets popular during the summer and autumn harvest as an apple-growing and picking destination, where you can always count on a delicious slice of pie.
Recognized for the annual Apple Days Festival, stop by the renowned Julian Pie Co. anytime and the town's brewery, among the main street's bakeries and cafes, exemplary of local hospitality and relaxing vibes. Starting the day right over an authentic Dutch apple pie with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream—a fantastic mess, dripping goodness, Julian Farm & Orchard welcomes your family with hayrides, cider pressing, and ax throwing. Just north, Volcan Mountain Trailhead is an artist-designed wilderness expanse with an elevated trail. Afterward, nothing hits the spot like a chilled glass and warm company at Calico Cidery's outdoor seating area under oak and apple trees to unwind at sunset. Pick up some cider doughnut holes for friends back home if they last through the ride.
Nevada City
Among the best autumn destinations in the US and one of the most memorable towns in the Sierra Nevada, Nevada City is spectacular to explore over a weekend. Attracting old fans, newlyweds, and curious out-of-staters, the community of talented artists shines through the breathtaking natural beauty year-round. Snowier than most places in California, Nevada City inspires a fairytale amid the slopes covered in a soft blanket. Discovered in 1849 as a mining camp, the well-preserved downtown houses the West Coast's oldest continuously operated 1865 Nevada Theatre. Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum displays a collection of railroad and aviation artifacts, photographs, and documents.
The quiet, friendly vibe and slow-paced lifestyle extend into nature to savor every drop of relaxation or escapade. With Deer and Little Deer creeks through the heart, the green Pioneer Park features picnic/BBQ areas and an outdoor pool, plus ball fields and sports courts. Next to the scenic Angkula Seo Suspension Bridge just north, Hirschman's Pond trailhead offers a beautiful short hike just off the main road past huge boulders along a former gold mining area, with a pretty little pond and bird watching across the soft forest floor and all-consuming stillness. After mountain vistas, return for plenty of sidewalk art shows, fun festivals, and community events that lend a sense of belonging in one of the most laidback towns ever.
Oak Glen
The walkable downtown with apple pie scents wafting through the popular shopping district is a clear sign you've landed in a foodie destination. This agricultural community defines a laidback vacation where the only bustle is behind the curtains at casual restaurants and chic cafes while patrons enjoy fresh, locally sourced menus and conversation at mealtime. From bakeries to cideries, there's a venue to unwind any time of the day over real culinary craft, so start planning for the upcoming Apple Butter Festival. Dating back to the 16th century as a native tradition of harvesting winter preserves, you will learn about the joyful yet ardent business. Start your holiday shopping early or stock up on seasonal produce, branded apparel, plus pottery for your home, unique gifts for friends, and some homemade snacks to pack a picnic.
Whether you're in for summertime wildflowers in the foothills or the colorful mountain trails in the fall, revel in the views from over 4,500 feet above sea level. Just one central road across the idyllic valley offers access to Grand Potato Canyon on one side and Wilshire Creek Canyon on the other, with mature oaks changing colors in the fall and pines infusing their scent into the breeze. Oak Glen is earthy, rustic, and legendary within the bucolic San Bernardino County. From berry picking to farm visits, the nearby waterfront Yucaipa National Park features picnic grills and disc golf along its picturesque beach. With its love for apple growing and picking, Oak Glen welcomes families and couples through the harvest season to help lighten the load at some of the state's best u-pick farms with weekend live music, kid's crafts, and wagon rides.
Ojai
In the heart of Ventura County, Ojai retains an exclusive feel—from art to local cuisine and history—each experience feels curated for your taste. With culture unlike anywhere else, Ojai sets the mood for a real getaway that feels like coming home, and no wonder since it's been a long-time favorite beach tradition in the summer. There are plenty of cool spots to tour and photograph on a memorable escape like a chapel turned museum in a natural frame. Many enjoy the relatable Bart's Books, seeking solitude in a cave of literature with rare collections in a "literary" picturesque atmosphere and dropping a coin to buy books. The charming town of 7,500 boasts views to the horizon across the rolling hills, serene rivers, and lush forest trails leading to an overlook.
The breathtaking Ojai Valley offers a treasure trove of natural history to explore under the SoCal sun on a hike, bike ride, or horseback, plus wine tasting and golf. Known for its penchant for wellness, spirituality, and the arts, the holistic town features downtown landmarks like the Overlook Circle Fountain, while June, the sensual "Lavender Month," wraps Ojai in a heavenly-scented purple veil. Drop by the gallery of Ojai Valley Museum, one of the award-winning spas, or a wellness center, like Spa Ojai’s massage therapy, a fitness walk, or yoga at Ojai Valley Inn. You'll feel enlightened trying something new like Meditation Mount’s full moon, while Krotona Institute and Krishnamurti Center welcome the public to browse philosophy books and gain esoteric wisdom.
Quincy
Quincy, an enchanting town with a walkable, historic downtown, is the county seat of Plumas County. Inviting new faces to gallery openings, performances, and live music any given weekend year-round makes for a friendly welcome. Bonded by its love for the arts, Quincy is a sought-after escape many look forward to rain or shine, like the upcoming holiday escape during Sparkle in December or the Groundhog Fever Festival in February. The weekly community market in the summer treats visitors like locals or long-lost friends, just in time to soak up some sun rays along the waterfront near Quincy, being the closest to Bucks Lake. Taste its quirky, fun-loving side on a weekend escape next fall during the Mountain Harvest Beer Festival.
Among numerous exceptional mountain biking and hiking trails around, Quincy is tucked away at the southern edge of the wide-open American Valley. Hop on the nearby Feather River Land Trust Leonhardt trail for a leisurely hike or a scenic drive. The Takeaway Stay is convenient for throwing down your bags and exploring South Central Plumas County after a morning stroll along the river at Gansner Park and uncovering the joys of small-town living in the evening. Downtown main streets flaunt murals and historic architecture, while the Plumas County Museum offers a walking tour brochure just behind the Courthouse on Jackson Street.
Sonoma
How about sipping delectable wine in an old-fashioned California town? Between Napa and the ocean, Sonoma remains under the radar as a quintessential Northern California city with vineyards and picturesque landscapes. Offering a perfect balance for the ultimate low-key Wine Country experience, the local pace flows like a smooth wine, accentuating indulgences and savoring moments with your loved ones. You'll fit right in while admiring talent at a local classical art gallery or riding Sonoma’s magical miniature railway. From scenic vineyard strolls to fresh agricultural bounty through Sonoma’s many farm-to-fork dining, many come to revel in the natural landscape and get one of the most picture-perfect and easygoing small towns in the Golden State.
At the heart, the Sonoma Plaza, a historic landmark and a hub of activity, boasts an old town hall and Sebastiani Theatre. Imbibe local culture at the favorite brunch spot, Sunflower Caffe. Establishments like Three Sticks Wines, the “bubble bar” of Sigh, encapsulate Sonoma's quirky side, plus one of its oldest wineries nearby. A sip-and-stroll foodie and wine tour with friends via the Gourmet Food and Wine Tour is perfect for seeing and tasting the city on an express getaway. Check out Sebastiani’s Vineyard and Winery, the grandpa of all wineries in the area. Just an hour and a half drive from San Francisco to this part of California’s Wine Country, Sonoma lightens your soul and fosters a sense of belonging.
Three Rivers
Three Rivers, the “Gateway to the Sequoias,” attracts outdoor enthusiasts in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. There are plenty of ways to soak in the natural beauty that transmits calm vibes into the town itself. From biking to hiking and horseback rides, enjoy whitewater rafting and boating down one of the five Kaweah River's forks, after the largest of which the town takes moniker. Home to just over 2,500 friendly locals living on leisure time, businesses and residences dot the North Fork, South Fork, and Main Fork. Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Three Rivers is a perfect mountain getaway for the weekend or a week of outdoor recreation, history, and serene vibes. Stepping up to the crystal-clear waters each morning, tranquility captivates your senses—first shocking to those with city eyes but longed for after departure.
Just east of Visalia on Hwy 198, you're at the Ash Mountain Main Entrance to Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park. The small, quirky, and creative village in the foothills offers easy access to the park's largest living things on earth, the Giant Sequoia trees. The pet-friendly Slick Rock Recreation Area and Lake Kawea are minutes south. First settled in the 1860s on the land inhabited by the Yokuts, the natives survived on plants and other natural resources, carving kayaks out of the native oak trees, fishing, and trapping small wildlife like birds and rabbits. Aspire to rough it out in a comfy campsite, a peaceful getaway with your family at a B&B, or a couple's stay in the wooded cabin. It's just a quick drive north from Three Rivers Hideaway to Tunnel Rock, a landmark boulder and photo spot marking a former roadway through a granite tunnel.
Defining intimate vacations, these towns are not in a hurry to savor and indulge. It is a refreshing perspective to gain during a break from the fast-paced world of today, when a getaway is a necessity. Calistoga accentuates the importance of "me time" with hot springs, spas, and wines in an old-fashioned Southern feel, while Sonoma Coast State Park offers charming coastal views.
From many mountain towns to farming communities, Grass Valley is one of the state's 14 official cultural districts, and Three Rivers is the entrance to Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park, home to the largest living things on Earth. Each small town packs a punch of attractions to discover at a local pace, like the Old Faithful of California.
