8 Underappreciated Towns To Visit In Northern California
Diverse landscapes, including rugged coastlines, forests, valleys, and mountainous areas characterize Northern California. It encompasses major cities like San Francisco and Sacramento, as well as notable natural attractions such as the Redwood National and State Parks, Yosemite National Park, and Lake Tahoe. This region of California produces a large portion of the nation’s fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Northern California also has a robust tech industry centered around Silicon Valley. What many do not know is that Northern California is home to underappreciated towns worth visiting. These eight towns have opportunities to engage in local culture, outdoor recreation, and distinct architectural heritage, making them hidden gems in the region.
Healdsburg
Healdsburg, California, is a town in Sonoma County's wine country. Founded in the mid-19th century during the California Gold Rush, it quickly grew into an agricultural community. The town's location at the confluence of the Russian River and Dry Creek made it a spot for farming and viticulture. Over the years, Healdsburg has become known for its wine industry, attracting visitors from around the world.
Healdsburg Museum and Historical Society shows the history of Healdsburg and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore exhibits that detail the town's development from its early days to the present. Russian River is a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. It has scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Dry Creek Vineyard is one of the oldest wineries in the area. It has wine tastings and tours and gives insights into the local wine-making process.
Ferndale
Ferndale, California, is a small town in Humboldt County known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture. Established in 1852, Ferndale quickly became a place for dairy farming, leveraging its fertile surroundings in the Eel River Valley. The town's prosperity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries is reflected in the elaborate Victorian buildings that line its streets.
The Ferndale Museum has exhibits on the town's history and local culture. It educates visitors on the area's growth, including its Victorian past. Ferndale Cemetery is a historic site with elaborate tombstones. It has sweeping views of the Eel River Valley, so it is a peaceful place to explore. Centerville Beach is a beach characterized by rugged cliffs and tide pools. It is perfect for beachcombing and picnicking.
Grass Valley
Grass Valley, California, is a town in Nevada County, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Established in the mid-19th century during the California Gold Rush, Grass Valley quickly became one of the most prosperous mining towns in the state. Its location made it a key center for gold mining, with numerous mines operating in the area, including the famous Empire Mine.
Empire Mine State Historic Park is a gold mine with tours of the mine itself. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens and restored buildings to learn about the mining operations. North Star Mining Museum is dedicated to the area's mining history. The museum has mining equipment and exhibits that illustrate the techniques and challenges of gold mining. Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum details the history of the narrow-gauge railroad that served the region. The museum includes displays of railroad artifacts and information about the role of railroads in local mining.
Point Reyes Station
Point Reyes Station, California, is a small coastal town in Marin County. Established in the late 19th century as a railroad stop, the town developed as an agricultural hub. Its location near the Pacific Ocean made it an essential supply point for the surrounding ranches. Point Reyes National Seashore is a natural area with beaches and hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities across the diverse landscapes. Point Reyes Lighthouse is a historic site with ocean views. The visitor center provides information about the lighthouse's history and significance. Tomales Bay State Park has hiking trails along Tomales Bay. Kayaking and picnicking are popular activities in this park.
Nevada City
Nevada City, California, is a town located in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Founded in 1849 during the California Gold Rush, it quickly became a bustling mining camp and later a prosperous town due to its rich gold deposits. The town's location along Deer Creek made it a top spot for mining, and it grew into one of California's wealthiest mining towns.
Nevada Theatre is the oldest continuously operating theater in California. It offers a variety of performances and historic tours. South Yuba River State Park is a natural park with hiking trails and swimming holes. The park also includes the historic Bridgeport Covered Bridge, a significant landmark. The Firehouse No. 1 Museum, housed in a historic firehouse, has exhibits on Nevada City's history and artifacts from the 19th century.
Calistoga
Calistoga, California, is located in Napa Valley. Founded in the mid-19th century during the California Gold Rush, Calistoga quickly became a top destination for its therapeutic hot springs. The town's location at the northern end of Napa Valley made it an ideal spot for vineyards and wine production, contributing to its growth.
Old Faithful Geyser of California is a natural geyser that erupts regularly. Visitors can enjoy watching the geyser's eruptions and explore the surrounding grounds. Petrified Forest contains ancient petrified trees and has several trails. Guided tours provide insights into the history and formation of the petrified wood. Castello di Amorosa is a winery built in the style of a 13th-century Tuscan castle. Tours and tastings are available for visitors to explore the castle and sample its wines.
Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg, California, is a town in Mendocino County. Established in 1857 as a military garrison, it was named after Captain Braxton Bragg. The town later developed for the logging and fishing industries, benefiting from its location along the rugged Northern California coast. Fort Bragg's historical significance is evident in its preserved buildings and cultural landmarks.
Glass Beach is known for its colorful sea glass, created by years of wave action on discarded glass. Visitors can explore the beach and collect unique pieces of sea glass. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens has beautiful gardens with ocean views. The gardens showcase a wide variety of plant species and provide a peaceful place to walk. Skunk Train is a historic train ride that travels through the redwoods. It has scenic views and family-friendly activities—a popular attraction for all ages.
Tiburon
Tiburon, California, is a small town on the Tiburon Peninsula in Marin County, just across the bay from San Francisco. The town's history dates back to the mid-19th century when it was an important railroad and ferry terminus. The name "Tiburon," which means "shark" in Spanish, reflects the area's coastal heritage.
Angel Island State Park is accessible by ferry and is for hiking, biking, and historic sites. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Bay Area from various points on the island. Old St. Hilary's Landmark is a historic church situated on a hilltop. The site has views of San Francisco Bay and surrounding wildflower meadows. Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum showcases the history of Tiburon's railroad and ferry services. Exhibits detail the town's development as a transportation hub and its evolution over the years.
In summary, Northern California is home to several underappreciated towns that should not ignored. Healdsburg invites visitors to explore its wine country heritage, while Ferndale enchants with its Victorian architecture. Grass Valley's gold mining past provides a fascinating glimpse into California's history, and Point Reyes Station has coastal scenery galore. These eight towns highlight the diverse and often overlooked experiences Northern California has to offer.
