When you think of Northern California, do you think of really, really adorable small towns? If you don't, you should! The upper half of our state is dotted with dozens of towns that by population alone may not be considered small, but by charm and beauty, they've kept the magic by feeling quaint and reminding us of times gone by. There's nothing more romantic than taking the hand of someone you love and strolling down Main Street. Here are 12 charming small towns in Northern California that you need to visit ASAP:

1. Eureka

Disney characters Donald Duck, Scrooge McDuck, Huey, Dewey, and Louie, Daisy Duck, and most of their supporting cast live in the fictional city of Duckburg, first mentioned in Walt Disney's Comics and Stories #49 in 1944, created by Carl Barks. It's believed this city "Duckburg" was named after the city of Eureka. For more about this lovely little town, check out this previous article!

2. Lakeport

Located on the western shore of beautiful Clear Lake, Lakeport was first settled by Native Americans several thousand years ago. Need more about Lakeport? Check out this article for all the details!

3. St. Helena

St. Helena considers itself the "Main Street" of the Napa Valley. It's known for its small-town charm with big experiences in culinary delights and world-renowned wines. Take a look at this previous article for more about St. Helena and it's quaint beauty.

4. Sutter Creek

Charm abounds here. Visiting Sutter Creek is like stepping back into the gold rush era...but with much better food. And air conditioning. For more about this lovely Northern California town, visit its official website.

5. Murphys

Murphys is tucked away in Calaveras County and considers itself to be the Queen of the Sierra Foothills. We agree! For previous coverage of this adorable town, check out this previous article!

6. Mendocino

This town was founded in 1850 as a logging community, and was originally named "Meiggsville" after Henry Meiggs. No offense, Mr. Meiggs, but we're glad that one didn't stick. For more details about the awe-inspiring beauty of Mendocino, check out this previous article!

7. Jackson

Jackson is he county seat of Amador County. Once upon a time, settlers were drawn to the gold in them thar hills. The town was founded in 1848 and named after an attorney that miners liked. Take a look at the city of Jackson's official website for more about this little place.

8. Tiburon

The Spanish word for Tiburon is "shark" and was probably inspired by the native leopard sharks in the surrounding waters. Don't let them fool you; Tiburon is lovely! Interested in hiking to downtown Tiburon and soaking up all the sights while getting outdoors? Take a look at this article about the world-famous Tiburon Historical Trail.

9. Fortuna

Fortuna is the Spanish for the word "fortune." It was chosen by settlers who felt fortunate to live in such a glorious place surrounded by the forests, the Eel river, and the Pacific Ocean. 20,000 people tend to fill the town during Fortuna's annual Redwood AutoXpo. For more about this lovely little town, check out its official website.

10. Dunsmuir

If you enjoy fishing, skiing, climbing, or sight-seeing, then you'll understand why Dunsmuir is a popular hub for visitors. There's so much room for activities! Want to know more? Check out this previous article!

11. Volcano

Population: 115. Volcano was named when gold rush settlers believed the bowl-shaped valley to be created by a volcano. No such luck. This tiny town is known for a lot of firsts in California: first circulating library, first private school, first law school, and... first hanging. Well. Guess three out of four isn't bad. For some particularly interesting Civil War history (right here in Volcano), check this story out.

12. Sausalito

Sausalito (sauzalito) is Spanish, meaning "small willow grove." Pre World War II, it was known for its ship-making finesse. Now it's become an artistic houseboat community of over 400 boats. Groovy. For more about this lovely little town, check out this previous article!

When you think of small-town charm, which Northern California spot comes to mind? What charming small towns in Northern California are your favorites? Share which towns you've visited here and give us your advice on a few we may have missed! Need more inspiration? Check out this epic Northern California road trip!