11 Best Downtowns In California
California, a state on the Pacific coast of the United States, is known for its iconic landmarks, diverse landscapes, famed industries, and bustling cities. Its iconic coastline, stretching over 840 miles, is a state known for its natural beauty and lively atmosphere. The state is also home to some of the most charming downtowns in the country, each with its unique character and allure. From the quaint streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea to the energetic nightlife of San Juan Capistrano, California's downtowns offer a range of experiences for visitors and locals alike. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions, California is a state that truly has something for everyone.
Ojai
In a valley amid the Topatopa Mountains, Ojai is a town known for its artistic community and picturesque streets. Ojai's downtown area, perfectly curated to appear as a small village, is a one-stop shop for visitors looking to take in all of the town's attractions. Central to the downtown area, Libbey Park offers striking walking paths, tennis courts, and a playground, making it a perfect spot to catch a glimpse of the natural views. Additionally, Ojai Meadows Preserve, a protected natural area, offers scenic trails and a view of the local wildlife. On the weekends, the Ojai Certified Farmers' Market provides another nature-human connection, providing guests with fresh produce and artisanal goods every Sunday.
A key downtown landmark, the Ojai Valley Museum, traces the area's history from the Chumash Indians to modern times. Downtown Ojai is also recognized for its culinary scene, which offers visitors and locals everything from fine dining to casual eats. Pinyon, renowned for its fine dining experience, emphasizes fresh and local ingredients via wood-fired pizzas and vegetable-centered plates. Ojai Beverage Company, which combines a casual dining atmosphere with various craft beers and wines, offers visitors a more laid-back location to enjoy the local dining scene.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea's downtown area is a walkable village filled with architecture, hidden courtyards, and fairytale-like cottages that give it an old-world European feel. While offering the best of seaside living, the downtown area is a must-visit place for anyone looking to take in cultural sites and a lively shopping and culinary scene. Visitors can explore Carmel Plaza, which houses high-end shops and wine-tasting rooms like Wrath Tasting Room, or stroll along Ocean Avenue, where designer boutiques and artisan jewelry stores line the street like Bohemian Boutique. The Cypress Inn, co-owned by actress Doris Day, is a standout landmark, offering a glimpse into Hollywood history.
While Carmel-by-the-Sea's downtown district offers every type of shopping experience, the culinary scene doesn't falter either. Dining options include La Bicyclette, a cozy ambiance with European-style bistro cuisine, highlighting the town's diverse culinary landscape. Aubergine, celebrated for its seasonal and creative dishes, also provides a fine dining experience for visitors from far and wide.
Sausalito
Sausalito is a picturesque town on the northern edge of San Francisco Bay that exudes much of the vibrancy of its surrounding metropolitan cities. Its downtown area is known for its stunning waterfront views, vibrant arts scene, and unique shops and restaurants like Barrel House Tavern. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, taking panoramic views of the bay, Angel Island, and the San Francisco skyline. Here, visitors can also glimpse the houseboats moored at the pier. Many of these houseboats also offer tours to view some of the most eclectic floating homes in the area. The downtown area is also home to several art galleries, boutiques, and cafes like Lighthouse Cafe, where you can enjoy Raspberry Pancakes or classic French toast to fuel your journey.
Among the landmarks and attractions in Sausalito's downtown area that visitors should see are the Sausalito Ferry Terminal, which offers scenic ferry rides to San Francisco and Angel Island; the Bay Model Visitor Center, which features an interactive exhibit on the San Francisco Bay; and the Sausalito Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town's rich history. Several parks and hiking trails are nearby for outdoor enthusiasts, including the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Nevada City
Downtown Nevada City is a well-preserved Gold Rush town with 19th-century buildings that house unique shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. The Nevada Theatre, California's oldest continuously operating theater, hosts plays, films, and live performances. Nearby, Pioneer Park offers relaxing walking trails and clean picnic areas, ideal for family outings.
Broad Street, the town's main thoroughfare, is lined with antique stores, bookstores, and artisan boutiques like Kitkitdizzi, which showcases local crafts and home goods. Other shops like Earth Central offer guests a one-stop shop for souvenirs and gifts from a hand-selected and ethically sourced selection you won't find anywhere else. Visitors can also stop by the National Hotel, one of the oldest operating hotels in California, or enjoy a meal at Lefty's Grill, known for its wood-fired pizzas and craft cocktails. The town's Victorian charm, combined with its thriving arts scene, makes it a must-visit destination.
Sonoma
Sonoma boasts a vibrant downtown area that reflects the region's rich history and culture. The downtown district, one of the largest in the state, is centered around the Sonoma Plaza and is characterized by its well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, boutiques, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants like The Girl & The Fig, known for its rustic French cuisine and antique bar.
Among the landmarks and attractions in Sonoma's downtown area that visitors should see are the Sonoma State Historic Park, which includes several buildings and museums that tell the story of Sonoma's past; the Mission San Francisco Solano, a beautiful Spanish mission founded in 1823; and the Sonoma Plaza, a central gathering place for community events and festivals, including the Sonoma Plaza Tuesday Night Market, where locals and guests can enjoy a wide assortment of produce, flowers, food trucks, and local vendors. The downtown area also has several wineries and tasting rooms, such as Sonoma-Loeb and Pangloss Cellars, offering tastings right in the heart of town.
Arcata
Arcata's downtown, centered around the Arcata Plaza, exudes a laid-back, artsy atmosphere with Victorian-era buildings, independent shops, and organic eateries. The plaza is surrounded by local businesses like Northtown Books, a beloved independent bookstore, and Plaza Grill, which offers elevated American cuisine with views of the square. All Under Heaven, a family-owned gift store operating for over 30 years, features eclectic, fair-trade, and locally crafted souvenirs.
Visitors can also explore the Arcata Farmers' Market, one of the best in Northern California, featuring fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors. The Minor Theatre, built in 1914, is one of the oldest movie theaters in the country and still operates today. With its blend of history, bohemian culture, and sustainable businesses, downtown Arcata is a unique and inviting destination.
Paso Robles
In the heart of California's Central Coast, Paso Robles boasts a lively downtown area that reflects its rich history and wine culture. The district is centered around the historic Paso Robles Inn, which still houses a thermal spring. Surrounding it, well-preserved Victorian-era buildings line the streets, home to boutiques, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants, like the Michelin-starred The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar.
Among the landmarks and attractions in Paso Robles' downtown area that visitors should see is Paso Robles City Park, a beautiful green space with a playground, picnic areas, and a rose garden; the Carnegie Library, a building that now houses a museum and art gallery; and the Paso Robles Historical Museum, which showcases the town's past. On Main Street, visitors can experience Paso Robles' lively community events, from the Side Car Rendezvous to the Olive and Lavender Festival and rotating art installations. The downtown area also has several wineries and tasting rooms where visitors can sit back and enjoy a glass of wine.
Pacific Grove
Pacific Grove's downtown area is a quaint coastal retreat known for its Victorian-era architecture and small-town charm. Lighthouse Avenue is the main street, featuring antique shops, independent bookstores, and boutique clothing stores like Tessuti Zoo. The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, established in 1883, offers insight into the region's diverse wildlife and marine ecosystems.
The iconic Lover's Point Park, just a short walk from downtown, provides stunning ocean views and a peaceful escape. Visitors can bite at Passionfish, a highly rated seafood restaurant known for its sustainable menu with famed meals like their Sea Scallops with Tomato Truffle plate. For a quieter and slower pace, enjoy coffee and pastries at Bookworks, a cozy café and bookstore combination that allows visitors to enjoy a ham and cheese quiche while getting some work done. Nicknamed "America's Last Hometown," Pacific Grove's close-knit community gives visitors a quaint corner to explore.
San Juan Capistrano
In Orange County, San Juan Capistrano has a downtown area that reflects its Spanish colonial heritage. The downtown is steeped in history, with its centerpiece being Mission San Juan Capistrano, founded in 1776 and known for its beautiful gardens, ruins, and annual return of the swallows.
Among the landmarks and attractions in San Juan Capistrano's downtown area that visitors should see are Mission San Juan Capistrano, a beautiful Spanish mission founded in 1776 and known for its iconic swallows, which return every year; the Los Rios Historic District, a neighborhood with well-preserved Victorian homes; and the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town's past. The downtown area also has several art galleries, like The Cottage Gallery on Los Rios, boutiques, and cafes. For those looking for a unique souvenir, The Old Barn Antique Mall offers guests a selection from over 40 unique vendors that all bring a different assortment. To immerse yourself in the town's past, Las Catrinas, which is housed in the 1889-era Trulis House, offers a selection of Mexican Folk Art and Handcrafts to pick from.
Coronado
Coronado's downtown, centered along Orange Avenue, combines upscale boutiques, local eateries, and landmarks. The Hotel del Coronado, a famed beachfront resort built in 1888, is the town's most famous attraction, drawing visitors with its grand Victorian architecture and rich history. The downtown area features charming shops like Coronado Taste of Oils, offering gourmet olive oils and vinegars, and Bay Books, an independent bookstore loved by locals.
Restaurants like The Henry serve modern American cuisine in a stylish setting, while MooTime Creamery is a must-visit for handcrafted ice cream. With its blend of history, shopping, and coastal elegance, downtown Coronado offers a quintessential Southern California experience. No trip to downtown Coronado is complete without a visit to Blulite Bonfires, which offers guests memorable eco-friendly beachside activities for the whole family or group.
Arroyo Grande
Arroyo Grande, a delightful town on California's Central Coast, boasts a vibrant downtown area that reflects its rich history and culture. The downtown district, centered around Village Green, is characterized by its well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, charming boutiques like Posies in the Village, art galleries, and lauded restaurants.
Among the landmarks and attractions in Arroyo Grande's downtown area that visitors should see are the Clark Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year; the Arroyo Grande Historical Museum, which showcases the town's past; and the Village Green, a central gathering place for community events and festivals. To fuel your adventure, visitors should start their day at Cafe Andreini, Arroyo Grande's first coffee house, with classic coffee options and bites like acai bowls and avocado toast. Like the rest of the area, which is renowned for its wineries, the downtown area houses many wineries and tasting rooms for visitors, like Mason Bar & Kitchen, a rustic-chic eatery with craft cocktails.
Eureka
Downtown Eureka is a district filled with beautifully restored Victorian buildings, the most famous of which is the Carson Mansion, a stunning example of Queen Anne architecture. Old Town Eureka is the heart of the city's cultural and shopping scene, with art galleries, antique stores like 4th Street Mercantile, and specialty boutiques lining the streets. Visitors can explore the Clarke Historical Museum, which showcases Native American artifacts and Gold Rush-era exhibits, or enjoy waterfront dining at restaurants like Café Marina & Woodley's Bar.
The area also hosts the monthly First Saturday Arts Alive, where local artists and musicians bring the town to life. Eureka's Spring Sidewalk Sale and Showcase also offers a rich experience with the town's Main Street, housing an endless display of unique finds from local businesses. With its rich history, shops, and thriving arts scene, downtown Eureka is a must-visit for those exploring California's northern coast.
California’s Downtowns: A Story in Every Street
California offers an abundance of charming and lively downtowns across its diverse regions. From the streets of Nevada City to the picturesque coastal retreat of Pacific Grove, each downtown has its unique character and attractions. Whether visitors seek landmarks, art galleries, boutique shopping, or delectable dining experiences, California's downtowns provide an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Take the time to explore these captivating destinations and immerse yourself in the true essence of California's rich heritage.
