6 Delightfully Odd Towns In California
The American state of California has long been a mecca for creative types, and it's no secret why. With the state's year-round beautiful, sunny weather, and scenic diversity including its famous coastline, have inspired some of the greatest movies, music, and artwork ever made. While larger communities, like Los Angeles, Hollywood and San Francisco may get all the attention, there are countless quirky, welcoming communities that are just waiting for you to visit. So, pack your bags and get ready to let your freak flag fly!
Nevada City
Incorporated in 1856, Nevada City offers an eclectic mix of history and culture. While you're in town, you can take in a stage show at the famed Nevada Theatre. Who knows, you might just see the next budding superstar on stage! From there, you can learn about the town's unique history by visiting the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum. While there, you can even take a short ride on a steam-powered locomotive built in 1875! There's an old cliche about slowing down, and stopping to smell the roses once in a while. During a visit to the Crystal Hermitage Gardens, you can do just that; you'll be able to smell the roses along with a dazzling array of other flowers in this beautifully maintained garden. During your time in town, you can stay at the stunning National Exchange Hotel.
Julian
The charming town of Julian is the kind of place people typically think of when they read the term "California gold rush town". During the 1870s, gold was discovered in the area, and a town formed to support the new residents. Since the town's golden heyday, it's evolved into a peaceful, quirky town. One of the interesting quirks of the area is that Julian not only experiences hot summers, but it's also one of the places in California that sees snow each year! During your time in Julian, you can visit the California Wolf Center to learn more about these amazing and often misunderstood animals. Next, you can dig into the town's mining history at the Julian Museum and Pioneer County Park. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to stop in at the Julian Pie Company! From there, you can enjoy a hike in the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve, which covers around 2,900 acres and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Just don't forget your sunscreen!
Solvang
Established in 1911, the town of Solvang is like a slice of Denmark transplanted to America. Known as "The Danish Capital of North America", the town very much wears its Danish heritage on its sleeve. As you walk down the streets, you'll marvel at the classic Danish architecture along Copenhagen Drive. For a wonderful view of the town, you can take a relaxing horse-drawn carriage ride with Solvang Trolley & Carriage Company, which includes a narrated tour. Once you've stopped, you can spend time at The Hans Christian Andersen Museum, dedicated to the famed author of such beloved children's stories as The Princess & The Pea, as well as The Little Mermaid, among others. Speaking of the Little Mermaid, during your time in town, you can have your photo taken with a statue of a beloved literary character. To enjoy some of the town's scenic beauty, you can spend time in the well-maintained Hans Christian Andersen Park. If you're craving some authentic Danish cuisine, then make sure to stop in at the famed Solvang Restaurant.
Cayucos
The town of Cayucos is one of those great California "surf towns" that we've all seen depicted in movies and TV shows. It's the type of place that oozes "California cool" in a way you've only read about, thanks in large part to the town's main attraction, the breathtaking Cayucos State Beach that features 16 acres of golden sand that meets the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. During your time at the beach, you can work on your tan and read a book, swim or unleash your inner Kelly Slater and go surfing! For an awe-inspiring view of the town, you can walk to the end of the historic Cayucos Pier that extends 942 feet into the water. If you happen to be in town around New Year's, you can brave the frigid waters and take part in the annual Polar Bear Dip before warming up with a delicious meal at The Sea Shanty. Twice a year, the town is home to the Cayucos Antiques Street Faire, where you can shop for a wide variety of quirky goods. The event typically happens in early May and on July 4th, making Cayucos a perfect spot to celebrate America's birthday as fireworks burst over the water. While you're in town, you can stay at the Cayucos Beach Inn.
Weaverville
Founded in 1850, Weaverville is a classic mining town that allows you to step into the past without feeling stuck there. During your time in this quirky town, you can visit the Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park, where you'll find the oldest continuously used Chinese temple in California. Inside, you'll see amazing historical relics dating back to 1854. Weaverville has a thriving artistic community whose work is on full display at the charming Highland Art Center in the heart of the town's historic downtown core. If you're looking for a fun workout while in town, you can take to the Lee Fong Park Disc Golf course. When you've worked up an appetite, make sure to stop in at the historic New York Saloon. Opened in 1856, the saloon has been serving thirsty patrons since the town's gold rush days, making it a vital part of the town's history, and when you stop in for a meal or a drink, you become part of the saloon's storied history. Bon appetite!
Borrego Springs
The quirky town of Borrego Springs has seemingly always been a haven for those with a flair for creativity. All one has to do is look at the beautiful, diverse architecture of the town's buildings, which include modern, ranch-style, and pueblo-style buildings that offer a visual feast from the moment you arrive. Art lovers will want to spend time at the Galleta Meadows Sculptures / Sky Art Desert Sculpture Garden (Under the Sun Foundation), an outdoor art gallery featuring over 160 original artworks. From there, you can explore Mother Nature's artwork as you barrel through the area's rugged terrain in an ATV from Blu-In Off Road Rentals. If you're looking to enjoy Borrego Springs' scenic beauty in a slightly more passive way then you can hit the links at the famed Rams Hill Golf Club. While playing on the well-maintained course, you can enjoy the rolling hills in the background. Borrego Springs is only around 3 hours from San Diego, making it perfect for a weekend adventure. While you're in town, you can stay at the Palm Canyon Hotel RV & Resort.
So as we've seen, there is so much more to California than the glitz and glamour of big cities. Each of these charming, quirky towns has a unique personality and history that will keep you coming back. From classic gold rush towns to laid-back surf towns to thriving artistic communities, no matter where you go in California, it's a great place to unlock your inner you and have a great time while doing it. Happy travels!
