7 Northern California Towns With A Slower Pace Of Life
Tired of the never-ending high-speed chase that is your daily routine? A break is always important if you want to keep a healthy mental state, but where would you go? The Golden State is certainly a good place to start, but if you are looking for a particularly slow-paced lifestyle, the northern region would be more than happy to oblige. Northern California, and indeed the whole state, is one of the most culturally diverse regions in the U.S. In fact, an estimated 300,000 people lived in California even before the Europeans came. Today, people from all over come here to explore Yosemite National Park, tour San Francisco, or go wine tasting in Napa Valley. The coastal Mediterranean beauty and forested mountains of Northern California await!
Nevada City
Nevada City, California, gets its name from the Sierra Nevada mountain range and is home to a little over 3,000 people, which is more typical of a small town than a city. Deer Creek passes through this mellow town, and right under the Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours—a great tourist attraction on Broad Street. There, you can also find the Firehouse No. 1 Museum, where the Joss House steals the spotlight and many Victorian-era and Native American exhibits are on display. This small community is especially good at taking things slow, and nowhere is that better done than at Pioneer Park. This green space is perfect for picnicking, barbecuing, and—if you are a fan of swimming or poolside lounging—enjoying the outdoor pool, not to mention the great ball fields!
Ferndale
The streets of Ferndale are a treat to just stroll down, especially welcoming with their beautifully preserved Victorian storefronts and homes. This close-knit rural community likes to unwind by the creek. Francis Creek is home to some of the best spots to enjoy a meal, like Tuyas, and it is just a short distance from breathtaking locations such as Hadley Gardens, where this laid-back main street truly comes to life. The Ferndale Museum nearby is a great place to learn about local history. But if you want to experience it firsthand, just head south to the Portuguese Hall of Ferndale and bask in this impressive historical landmark!
St. Helena
More than just a laid-back town, St. Helena is quite a popular tourist destination thanks to its culinary scene and endless vineyards. The Clif Family Winery is usually the go-to for most visitors. It is located near another popular spot, an American restaurant/fine dining experience known for its assortment of wines and craft cocktails that goes by Goose & Gander. This small community does take a liking to the finer things, and you can learn more about art, history, and literature with a visit to the St. Helena Historical Society or the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum nearby.
Auburn
The small town of Auburn enjoys small-scale events such as farmers’ markets, held every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. It is known for its California Gold Rush history, so the Gold Rush Museum is usually the first stop for most visitors. However, the Bernhard Museum is also a must-visit for those who do not want to miss this hidden gem, with artifacts going back as far as 1805!
It is a slow-paced town, but you can add a bit of adventure to it with the Old Town Auburn Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours—a local attraction. Otherwise, Overlook Park to the southeast provides the perfect recreation area, with a skate park and hiking trails for those who wish to get in touch with nature and enjoy the canyon views.
Murphys
In the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains sits the small town of Murphys. Pronounced Mur-fees, it was once known as Murphy's Camp, before the small community became known for its scenic walks and family-owned shops.
A walk by Angels Creek will land you near all the best spots in town. You can have an especially good time at the Murphys, California Historical Landmark during Saint Patrick's Day; however, if you are more of a wine person, you will find Val du Vino on the same main street. A great way to end the day is at Murphy's Community Park, where the creek, lush greenery, and a charming gazebo create the perfect setting to kick back and slow things down a notch.
Arcata
Nothing says relaxation like a stroll down by the bay area, which is likely the first thing you will notice the moment you enter this small community. Arcata Bay makes for some great maritime activities, and the tiny Sand Island sits right in the middle of it all! If you are afraid of getting seasick, though, you can always visit the Arcata Bird Sanctuary just on the coast, where the walking trails are teeming with diverse wildlife.
This town has a deep appreciation for nature, making it the perfect destination for those who enjoy a slower pace and the serenity of birdwatching. The Natural History Museum in the middle of town offers fascinating insights into the region's rich biodiversity—a must-visit for nature lovers.
Dunsmuir
One of the best spots for tourism in Northern California, Dunsmuir pulls out all the stops with scenic spots like Hedge Creek Falls and Castle Crags State Park. The fact that Interstate 5 passes through this town means it can be a lively place, but that does not stop residents and visitors from smelling the roses. The preservation of early 20th-century architecture and the town’s railroad history invites people to bask in every moment here, especially in spots like Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens, where one can literally slow down and smell the blooms. A relaxing picnic at the equally beautiful Tauhindauli Park can be a peaceful way to conclude a day filled with scenic adventure.
It is important to know when to hurry and when you need to slow down. Listening to yourself is key to avoiding burnout, and few places recharge your spirit like Northern California. Much of this region feels like one continuous resort, thanks to its breathtaking natural landscape—once you arrive, it is hard to leave. Whether you are exploring the countryside, lounging on pristine beaches, or just wandering through its friendly towns, Northern California has something to offer, be it relaxation or great adventure.
