Northern California really has all the scenery you could ever want. We have Gold Rush towns, high Sierra towns, swanky beach towns, casual, quiet beach towns, sleepy towns along the Delta, towns shrouded by redwood forests, and so much more! We've compiled a list of beautiful small towns in Northern California. We took into account first the picturesqueness of the small town and two, activities, things to do and see. Check out our list:
It’s easy to see why this charming town is loved by photographers. Ferndale’s downtown is lined with well-preserved, colorful Victorian homes. The town is nestled in a small valley next to the ocean and a short drive to the redwoods. Main Street is lined with restaurants, a couple coffee shops, a bakery, plus some unique stores like Golden Gait Mercantile.
This small Pacific Northwest town located in the Trinity Mountains off of Interstate 5, is a hidden gem in Northern California. Check out the downtown where you’ll find the Siskiyou Arts Museum, several boutiques, and Dunsmuir Brewery Works. Drive to the north side of town to check out Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens followed by the beautiful Mossbrae Falls.
McCloud is famous as a world class fly-fishing destination. It has all the outdoor activities you’d expect in a place like Idaho or Montana. From hunting to horseback riding to skiing– McCloud is an outdoor-lover's dream.
Quincy is a beautiful town that often gets overlooked. Located in Plumas County, Quincy is about a two hour and 50 minute drive from Sacramento and two-and-a-half hours from Redding. Visit the Plumas County Museum to see artifacts from the Native Maidu people, as well as exhibits that tell the story of the area's Gold Rush. If you’re a live music fan, plan your trip for late June to attend the High Sierra Music Festival, a multi-day event with many bands and tons of activities.
This little city in Mendocino County is called the "Gateway to the redwoods". There is plenty to see and do in this small town. Visit the Mendocino County Museum, have lunch at 101 Drive-In burgers right downtown, and then hitch a ride on the Skunk Train.
This small oceanfront town is famous for its cliffside trails with breathtaking views. With all its scenic landscapes, it is also a popular place to get married. You’ll find some world-class resorts here as well as some small boutique hotels. Visit Mendocino Headlands State Park for some photo-worthy scenery and ocean breezes. After exploring the beach and the small town, dine at one of the highly-rated restaurants downtown.
This sleepy ocean-side town feels far away from San Francisco even though it’s just north of the city. There are some great farm stands along the 27 mile road to the small community. Once you find a place to park, take a walk around the town, grab a snack, and check out Bolinas Museum. Bring a blanket to relax on Bolinas Beach and watch the surfers.
Perhaps the most beautiful Christmas town in all of California, Nevada City is a not-so-secret spot to visit during the winter months. This well-preserved Gold Rush town gets decked out for Christmas! And it’s at a high enough elevation to get snow, which really makes it look like a Christmas postcard.
Located in what was once the richest gold mining county in the state, Grass Valley has a rich history. In addition to some popular restaurants and coffee shops in the downtown area is Empire Mine State Historic Park– home of California’s oldest gold mine.
Not only is the well-preserved Victorian architecture in Placerville something to marvel at, the town also has a ton of great stores and restaurants. Also known as Hangtown, Placerville sprang-up during– you guessed it!– the California Gold Rush. The downtown continues to attract crowds year-round. Visit the nearby Apple Hill to buy seasonal produce and other farm-made goods.
Another well-preserved Gold Rush town, we love Sutter Creek for its beauty and the many things to do and see. You can shop the day away in Sutter Creek’s many boutiques, and have some amazing meals at the local restaurants– all located within the picturesque downtown area.
Located between the Sierra Foothills and Yosemite, Murphys is a charming town. It began as a gold miner’s camp and quickly became a tourist destination. Today visitors flock to tour the nearby Mercer Caverns, and visit Ironstone Vineyards to taste wine and view the world’s largest crystalline gold leaf. From the town of Murphys you can visit Calaveras Big Trees State Park to view the giant sequoia trees. Murphy’s is a wine producing area, so there are more than a dozen tasting rooms on main street.
This entire town is a California Historical Landmark. You can walk around the downtown area in about 10 minutes– it’s very small but its pretty buildings are worth a visit. Check out the Volcano Theatre Company building. Constructed in 1856 as a tobacco and cigar shop, today the building hosts the area’s award-winning theater company. Down the road, book a tour of the Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark.
This beautiful town in the southern area of Northern California’s Gold Country is close to Yosemite National Park. Check out the town’s museum where you can learn more about Gold Rush history. Window shop in the historic downtown that has sporting good stores, cafes, and an antique store.
Which of these towns have you visited? Are there any small towns we missed? Tell us in the comments.
The Up-and-Coming City in Southern California That’s Perfectly Sized
Discover the heart of San Diego County with a trip to Ramona, California. With vineyards, wineries, hiking, and more, this up-and-coming city has it all.
What excites me the most about my job as an expert travel writer is when I'm able to find new places I've never heard of that spark an immediate interest in visiting. Because let's face it, unless you're searching for it, sometimes you miss out on many really fun and exciting places in your home state. Coming across a place like Ramona, California, I didn't know what to expect at first. The allure was there - vineyards dotting the outskirts, a population of just over 20,000, and part of San Diego County for that matter! So, what really makes this up-and-coming city in Southern California shine? What's the most interesting part of the whole area? And should you plan a visit here before it really takes off? Let's dive in...
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Beautiful Lake Ramona surrounded by mountains in an elevated location seen from the Green Valley Truck Trail, Blue Sky Ecological Reserve, Poway, California
Ramona, California, is a census-designated place in San Diego County, California, that is the perfect blend of rural charm, natural beauty, and unique agricultural roots. A lot of the draw for visitors to this up-and-coming city is the pairing of a burgeoning wine industry with a small-town feel, and some outdoor adventure thrown into the mix.
Ramona is situated in the foothills of the Cuyamaca Mountains at an elevation of about 1,400 feet. It lies approximately 35 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, making it a peaceful getaway that’s still accessible from the city.
Horses in Nature
Ramona's history dates back to the late 1800s when it was established as a rural farming and ranching community. Originally named Nuevo, the town became known as Ramona after a popular 1884 novel of the same name by Helen Hunt Jackson. The novel romanticized California’s Spanish and Native American heritage, and the town adopted the name to align with this image.
Agriculture has long been the backbone of Ramona’s economy, with early settlers growing crops such as olives, citrus, and grapes. In recent decades, it has become a hub for wine production, revitalizing its agricultural roots.
As far as things to do in Ramona, California, we've got quite a few standouts. We mentioned wine already, so that is a great place to begin. Ramona is part of the Ramona Valley American Viticultural Area, a recognized wine region. Dozens of boutique wineries, such as Milagro Winery and Hatfield Creek Vineyards, offer tastings and tours in picturesque settings.
Additionally, there are quite a few natural gems worth exploring on foot. Mount Woodson with famed hiking spot Potato Chip Rock, is a popular hiking destination with sweeping views and a unique, photogenic rock formation. Ramona Grasslands Preserve offers scenic trails for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the area’s diverse wildlife. And Dos Picos County Park is a family-friendly park with camping, picnic areas, and easy hiking trails.
Scenic San Diego County California USA Panoramic Landscape. Distant Pacific Ocean Coastline Horizon
In addition to the outdoor excursions and California hiking trails, also make sure to explore Ramona’s Old Town district, home to unique shops offering antiques, handmade crafts, and local goods. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs. And for anyone that loves a little Wild West feel, Ramona also has a rich equestrian culture, with numerous ranches offering horseback riding experiences. Visitors can also attend rodeos and other western-themed events.
If visiting Ramona, California, has piqued your interest, make sure to share this article with a travel buddy!
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Need to find a hotel in Ramona, California? Check out Hotels.com and see what's available today!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
