7 Towns In Northern California With Vibrant Downtown Areas
Downtowns in Northern California tell the stories of boomtowns that kept their main streets. Gold drew early settlement, and one foothill town still centers on Victorian buildings and the 1851 Holbrooke Hotel. Wine country shaped another community’s central plaza, lined with tasting rooms a short walk from the Russian River.
In the Sierra, California’s oldest operating theater keeps performances on the calendar. On the far coast, a waterfront core meets Humboldt Bay through a boardwalk and harbor cruises. Park once, follow the storefronts, and watch history play out in real time, in each and every block.
Grass Valley
Grass Valley is one of many former gold rush towns in Northern California, settled at a time when huge deposits of gold were discovered in the mid-1800s, and a subsequent rush of people looking to strike it rich rushed to the newly formed state.
The heart of downtown Grass Valley is loaded with several historic buildings, some of which date back to the Victorian era. Visitors can explore the historic Holbrooke Hotel, which dates back to 1851 and offers an up-close look into the past, with its period-accurate decor and stories regarding famous guests. Grass Valley is also known for its community events, such as the annual Cornish Christmas, where the streets are decorated with festive lighting, and vendors set up shop at a central Christmas market.
The town’s proximity to more outdoor-oriented attractions, like the Empire Mine State Historic Park and the nearby Sierra Nevada foothills, makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking to discover the beauty of this north-central region of the Golden State.
Healdsburg
Healdsburg sits in the heart of Sonoma County’s wine country, just a short drive north of the city of Santa Rosa. Centered around its historic plaza, Healdsburg's downtown is a fun collection of locally owned restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Many tasting rooms can be found here too, where you can sample some of the best wines this region has to offer. The Meeker Vineyard Tasting Room and Siduri Wine Bar and Tasting Lounge are just two of over a dozen popular options here.
The scenic Russian River flows just steps away from downtown Healdsburg. Kayaking, canoeing, and walking along its banks are popular activities here. Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach is an ideal boat launch and a nice place to kick back and relax.
Nevada City
Nevada City is among the best places to stay if you seek to explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This former mining town is now recognized for its beauty and plethora of attractions worth seeing, whether while passing through a road trip or if you are in town for a day or two.
Nevada City is home to the historic Nevada Theatre, California's oldest operating theater. The theater continues to host regularly scheduled performances, from plays to film screenings. The town's commitment to performance arts is also evident in events like the annual Nevada City Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and audiences from across the country.
Surrounded by vast wildlands, Nevada City offers easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking and swimming at the nearby South Yuba River. Nevada City is also regarded as a gateway to the famous Tahoe National Forest.
Eureka
This town is located on the rugged, far northern coastline of California. With around 27,000 residents, Eureka is still one of the largest towns between San Francisco and Portland, Oregon, a fact that displays just how sparsely populated this region of the country can sometimes be.
The town’s cultural scene is lively. The Morris Graves Museum of Art serves as a central hub for the arts, containing a rotation of exhibitions that highlight both local and nationally recognized artists. If learning more about Eureka and the surrounding area is more within your interests, the wonderfully curated Clarke Historical Museum is also nearby.
Eureka’s downtown is closely tied to its waterfront, where you can stroll along the boardwalk, explore the marina, or even take a historic boat tour on the Humboldt Bay Harbor Cruise.
Ferndale
Ferndale is often referred to as the “Cream City” due to its thriving dairy industry. The Ferndale Museum is one of the best spots to visit if you'd like to know more about this history and the many dairy farms that continue to operate here to this day. With a downtown core that is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, be sure to grab some locally made cheese, milk, or ice cream at longstanding establishments like The Milk House, housed in one of the many buildings here dating back to the 19th century.
Located a short drive from the Lost Coast, an undeveloped area featuring several parks and natural landmarks, Ferndale also serves as a good place to escape into California's pristine coastal wildlands. Here, you can relax on Black Sand Beach or hike to the original location of the Cape Mendocino Lighthouse which still gives its visitors an idyllic viewpoint over the surrounding oceanscapes and wildflower-covered hills.
Benicia
Benicia is a charming town nestled along the Carquinez Strait, just off San Pablo Bay. It’s a place rich in history, having served as California’s state capital from 1853 to 1854, and today, its downtown still proudly retains that historic charm. Its close proximity to San Francisco and the broader Bay Area makes Benicia a wonderful getaway spot for anyone eager to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
A highlight of the town is the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, where the original capitol building stands as a proud reminder of its notable past. Just a short distance from the heart of town, the waterfront offers a serene escape with stunning views of the Carquinez Strait. You’ll find walking trails, parks, and the Benicia Marina, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. Don’t miss the chance to watch a beautiful sunset at Pointe Benicia, located at the southern tip of town — it’s truly a sight to behold!
Weed
Located at the foot of Mount Shasta, the second-highest peak in the Cascade Range, Weed was originally a logging town. Its downtown still reflects its industrial origins but now functions as a leading tourist spot in Northern California. The Weed Historic Lumber Town Museum, situated downtown, features exhibits and artifacts related to the logging industry and regional history. Visitors can also enjoy numerous public art installations and murals celebrating the town’s heritage. Taking a walk through downtown reveals these artistic treasures. Just north of the town, the Living Memorial Sculpture Garden offers a striking tribute to veterans through its public art. Mount Shasta remains the main attraction for most visitors and is conveniently close to downtown Weed. The area offers hiking, skiing, camping, and spectacular panoramic views, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities year-round.
Find Your Ideal Downtown Area In Northern California
Northern California is an exceptional destination for a memorable trip, featuring renowned parks and charming small towns. The lively downtown districts are great spots to visit, whether you're stopping overnight or just passing through. Outdoor activities in Weed, coastal attractions in Eureka, and the historic charm of Grass Valley offer something for every traveler.
