25 Cute Small Cities in Northern California to Go to

When you love cute small cities as a lot as I do, this one’s for you! After dwelling in Northern California for greater than 40 years, I’ve spent numerous days exploring its tiny cities, and so they’ve turn out to be a few of my favourite locations to be. Some journeys had been deliberate, others had been completely happy accidents, and various began as a “fast cease” that become a complete afternoon. 

These are my private picks for the cutest small cities which can be excellent for fast getaways or simply saving on your future bucket checklist. 

➞ PS: Remember to examine again usually. I’ll hold including to this checklist as I go to and uncover much more cute small cities alongside the best way!

Mendocino County

I’ve spent extra anniversaries than I can depend wandering Mendocino County, and every go to nonetheless appears like discovering it for the primary time. The storybook-perfect shoreline, dramatic bluffs, and charming Victorian villages make it a spot you need to decelerate in, not simply go by. 

Hopland

a laid-back little wine city the place tasting rooms outnumber stoplights

24-Hours in Hopland: Begin your morning with espresso at Cafe Poppy, then seize breakfast on the Bluebird Café earlier than heading out for some tasting. Spend the afternoon sipping wine at Campovida, tasting olive oil at Terra Savia Vineyard, and taking part in an off-the-cuff sport of bocce ball at Brutocao Cellars (no rush, this city is all about going gradual). For lunch, The Golden Pig is a should, and when dinner rolls round, head to Inventory Farm Hopland for wood-fired pizza and a relaxed night vibe. Wrap all of it up with an in a single day keep on the fantastically restored Thatcher Lodge, proper within the coronary heart of city, so you may get up and do all of it once more, or no less than linger a bit longer. For extra data, see my excellent day journey itinerary for Hopland, California.

Mendocino

Storybook appeal meets dramatic coastal views.

24-Hours in Mendocino: Begin your morning with breakfast at GoodLife Café & Bakery, then head out for a simple hike alongside the Mendocino Headlands the place the ocean views virtually beg you to linger. Spend the afternoon wandering by artwork galleries, popping into the outlets round Mendocino Village, and strolling the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens if you’re prepared for a bit nature break. Seize pizza for lunch at The Brickery, then deal with your self to a comfortable, memorable dinner at Cafe Beaujolais. When it’s time to settle in, keep on the heat and welcoming Brewery Gulch Inn, or go the glamping route at Mendocino Grove if you’d like one thing a bit extra enjoyable and outdoorsy. 

If you need the total plan, I’ve bought you coated in my Good Weekend Getaway Information for Mendocino, California.

Boonville

A tiny Anderson Valley city with an enormous persona and winery views.

24-Hours in Boonville: Begin your day with espresso at Paysanne, then seize breakfast at Mosswood Market earlier than heading out to discover. Spend the morning wine and cheese tasting at Pennyroyal, browse the outlets downtown Boonville, and ensure you pop into Farmhouse Mercantile as a result of it’s a kind of locations you’ll want you had at dwelling. Within the afternoon, go to the Philo Apple Farm or take a simple hike by Hendy Woods on the Discovery Path to stretch your legs among the many redwoods. Lunch at Boonville Distillery is a should, adopted by a pre-dinner drink at Disco Ranch if you’re able to ease into the night. For dinner, you may’t go improper with the Boonville Lodge or Offspring at Farrer, and staying the evening on the Boonville Lodge makes the entire expertise really feel effortlessly full.

Sonoma County

Sonoma County blends wine nation sophistication with laid-back, small-town really feel. It’s the county that’s been my dwelling for many of my life, so I’ve had the enjoyment of exploring its vineyards, hidden cafés, and quiet corners time and again.

Occidental
A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it city well-known for Italian meals and redwoods.

24-Hours in Occidental: Begin your morning with breakfast at Howard Station Café, then wander by the native outlets earlier than heading out to zipline by the redwoods or take a simple hike on the Grove of Outdated Bushes. Within the afternoon, gradual issues means down with a singular cedar enzyme bathtub at Osmosis Spa. Seize lunch at The Altamont Common Retailer, then settle in for dinner on the Union Lodge, the oldest restaurant on the town and an absolute traditional. For the evening, keep on the Inn at Occidental or the Union Lodge so you may totally absorb this charming little nook of Northern California with out ever needing to hurry.

Glen Ellen
Sleepy and stylish, with literary roots and winery views.

24-Hours in Glen Ellen: Begin your day with breakfast at Les Pascals Patisserie et Boulangerie, then head out for a hike by Jack London State Historic Park or stroll the SculptureWALK at Jack London Village. Spend the afternoon wandering the Sonoma Botanical Backyard or having fun with wine tasting at Imagery Property Vineyard if you’re able to gradual issues down. Seize lunch at The Mill at Glen Ellen, then go for a comfortable, memorable dinner at Glen Ellen Star. For an in a single day keep, deal with your self to the gorgeous Gaige Home, or hold it extra budget-friendly at Jack London Lodge. If you wish to flip this right into a easy itinerary, try my excellent day journey to Glen Ellen.

Geyserville
Tiny however mighty, with world-class wineries and dramatic surroundings.

24-Hours in Geyserville: Begin your morning with breakfast on the Geyserville Grille, then spend the day wine tasting at Coppola Vineyard, taking a scenic drive by Dry Creek Valley, or stroll by the sculpture path. Make time to wander round downtown Geyserville and, if you’d like a nature break, head over to Lake Sonoma for recent air and wide-open views. Seize lunch at Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria, then wrap up the day with a traditional Italian dinner at Catelli’s. Keep the evening on the Geyserville Inn so you may get up to winery views.

Bodega Bay
A coastal fishing city made well-known by Hitchcock, the place fog, chowder, and ocean views set the tempo.

24-Hours in Bodega Bay: Start with breakfast and low at The Birds Cafe, then seize one thing candy at Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy earlier than heading out to fly a kite at Salmon Creek Seaside. Spend the afternoon climbing the Bodega Head Path, stopping by the well-known filming areas from The Birds, and squeezing in wine tasting at Sonoma Coast Vineyards. Lunch on the Fishetarian Fish Market is a should, and dinner on the On line casino Bar & Grill feels delightfully old-school in one of the simplest ways. Keep in a single day at The Lodge at Bodega Bay, which was voted #1 out of fifty by Condé Nast readers. For a easy plan, see my Good Day Journey Itinerary to Bodega Bay, California.

Guerneville
A Russian River favourite recognized for redwoods, river floats, and an artsy, inclusive vibe.

24-Hours in Bodega Guerneville: Seize breakfast at Piknik, then head out for a hike among the many giants at Armstrong Redwoods or spend the morning kayaking on the Russian River. Within the afternoon, cease for a tasting at Korbel Vineyard or lean into the city’s whimsy with a spherical at Guerneville Pee Wee Golf. Lunch at Three Cultures Kitchen is all the time a win, adopted by wandering round city earlier than cocktails at El Barrio. Dinner at Boon Eat + Drink or Trillium wraps up the day completely, with ice cream at Nimble & Finn’s when you nonetheless have room. Keep at Daybreak Ranch or Boon Lodge. For one thing extra bucket checklist worthy, keep in an airstream or glamping tent at AutoCamp Russian River. For extra data, see my publish: A Good Day Journey Itinerary to Guerneville, California

Healdsburg
Polished but approachable, that is one in all wine nation’s most walkable and food-forward cities.

24-Hours in Healdsburg: Begin your morning with breakfast at Acorn Cafe, then stroll across the Healdsburg Plaza earlier than heading out for wine tasting or a scenic drive by Dry Creek Valley. Lunch might be informal at Troubadour Bread & Bistro or a bit extra refined at  Arandas. Spend the afternoon popping into tasting rooms or just having fun with the gradual tempo of city. For dinner, Guiso Restaurant delivers comforting Latin fusion flavors that all the time hit the spot. Keep at Appellation Healdsburg or Harmon Visitor Home so that you’re proper within the coronary heart of all of it.

Sebastopol
A inventive, farm-to-table city surrounded by apple orchards and rolling vineyards.

24-Hours in Sebastopol: Start the day with espresso at Taylor Lane and breakfast at The Wild Poppy Cafe, then wander Florence Avenue to take a look at the quirky junk artwork shows. Spend the afternoon wine tasting at Pax, buying and exploring The Barlow, or taking part in a couple of nostalgic pinball video games at The Rewind Arcade. Lunch choices are stable, from tacos at Handline to a sandwich at The Porch Kitchen. For dinner, Ramen Gaijin or Goldfinch are my favorites, and dessert at Screamin’ Mimi’s is non-negotiable. Keep at Pearlessence Winery Inn or close by on the Inn at Occidental, and if you’d like a easy itinerary, see my publish Tips on how to Spend One Day in Sebastopol, California: 12-Hour Itinerary.

Napa

Napa County cities steadiness luxurious and ease, the place Michelin stars and farmers markets coexist.

Calistoga
Relaxed and rustic, recognized for warm springs and old-school wine nation vibes.

24-Hours in Calistoga: Seize breakfast at Sam’s Common Retailer, then soak within the thermal sizzling springs at Dr. Wilkinson’s or Calistoga Spa Scorching Springs. Spend the afternoon climbing in Bothe-Napa State Park, visiting Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, or testing Outdated Trustworthy Geyser when you’re in a touristy temper. Wine tasting right here is enjoyable and distinctive, with stops like Tank Storage, Sterling Vineyards or Castello di Amorosa. Lunch at Picobar retains issues informal, whereas dinner at Solbar appears like a deal with. Keep at Solage for a splurge or Harvest Inn for a extra budget-friendly however nonetheless charming possibility.

St. Helena
Basic Napa class with a walkable predominant road and critical culinary clout.

24-Hours in St. Helena: Begin your morning with breakfast at The Mannequin Bakery, then spend the day wine tasting at AXR Napa Valley or Trinchero Napa Valley. Take a tour on the Culinary Institute of America or deal with your self to a spa day at Alila if slowing down is the aim. A burger lunch at Gott’s St. Helena is all the time a good suggestion, and dinner at Farmstead at Lengthy Meadow Ranch is a kind of meals you’ll be fascinated by lengthy after you permit. For a soothing overnighter, keep at Rancho Caymus Inn or the Wydown Lodge.

Marin cities really feel effortlessly refined, the place morning hikes, ferry rides throughout the bay, and stopping by a favourite bakery are simply a part of on a regular basis life.

Bolinas
Famously elusive and fiercely native, this seaside city marches to its personal drum.

24-Hours in Bolinas: Spend the day strolling Bolinas Seaside, stopping by the Bolinas Museum and Artwork Gallery, and grabbing one thing recent from the Gospel Flat Farm Stand. When you’re up for exploring extra, a visit to the Level Reyes Lighthouse provides dramatic coastal views to the combo. Breakfast or lunch at BoVida is a should, and dinner at Coast Café appears like a hidden reward for many who made it right here. Keep close by at Sandpiper Lodging on the Seaside in Stinson Seaside to maintain the laid-back coastal vibe going.

Fairfax
A music-loving, bike-friendly city tucked into the hills with a bohemian spirit.

24-Hours in Fairfax: Begin your day with brunch at Amélie Fairfax or lunch at Más Masa, then head out for a hike to Cascade Falls or a go to to the Marin Museum of Bicycling. Spend the afternoon buying downtown and absorbing the city’s inventive spirit. Dinner at Stillwater or Village Sake rounds out the day completely.

Mill Valley
Woodsy and complicated, with trailheads that begin simply past the espresso outlets.

24-Hours in Mill Valley: Start with breakfast at Flour Craft Bakery, then head to Muir Woods for an early stroll among the many redwoods. Spend the afternoon buying in downtown Mill Valley, visiting California’s prettiest library with its redwood views, or exploring the Mill Valley Lumber Yard. Lunch at Hook Fish Co. on the Proof Lab Beer Backyard is informal and scrumptious, whereas dinner at Playa makes for an awesome finish to the day. Keep on the Acqua Lodge for straightforward entry and water views..

Level Reyes Station
A gateway city to wild shoreline, oyster farms, and lengthy, windswept hikes.

24-Hours in Level Reyes Station: Begin with espresso and pastries at Brickmaiden Breads, then head out for cheese tasting at Level Reyes Farmstead or a mead tasting at Heidrun Meadery. Spend the afternoon exploring Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore, kayaking on Tomales Bay, or indulging in oysters at Hog Island Oyster Farm. Lunch atFacet Avenue Kitchenand dinner at Cafe Reyes retains issues deliciously native. Keep at Nick’s Cove for waterfront views and critical coastal appeal.

For extra data try my Day Journey itinerary to Level Reyes, California: 12-Hour Itinerary or my Weekend Journey Information for Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.

Sausalito
Mediterranean-feeling and postcard-perfect, simply throughout the Golden Gate Bridge.

24-Hours in Sausalito: Seize breakfast at Frank & Espresso, then stroll the Bridgeway Promenade, try the floating properties, and cease by the Bay Mannequin Customer Heart. Head as much as Hawk Hill for the most effective Golden Gate views round, then seize lunch at Fish.. Dinner at Le Storage is cozy and traditional French. Keep at The Inn Above Tide for unbeatable views, or The Gables Inn for a extra budget-friendly possibility.

For the very best day, comply with my Sausalito Day Journey Itinerary that features what to see, eat and do!

Tiburon
Quietly elegant, with skyline views that really feel virtually unreal at sundown.

24-Hours in Tiburon: Spend the morning strolling the Outdated Rail Path from Blackie’s Pasture, then stroll and store alongside Fundamental Avenue. Take the Angel Island ferryfor a simple journey, or hold it native with a swing on the Tiburon Hippie Tree or a film on the cool Cinelounge. Brunch at Malibu Farm is a favourite, adopted by wine at Squalo Vino and dinner at Troya. Keep on the Waters Edge Lodge, The Lodge at Tiburon, or one of many city’s boutique inns to completely soak within the views.

South of San Francisco

Half Moon Bay
A traditional coastal city recognized for pumpkins, bluffs, and big-wave surf close by.

24-Hours in Half Moon Bay: Have your morning breakfast at Johnny’s Half Moon Bay, then store for vegetation at Pastorino Farms or strive one thing completely completely different with a glass-blowing class at Bay Artwork Glass. Spend the afternoon wine tasting at La Nebbia Vineyard or head to Mavericks Seaside to look at surfers chase big waves. Because the day winds down, catch the sundown on the Ritz-Carlton for these wow-factor ocean views. Lunch at Barbara’s FishTrap is a should, adopted by an Italian dinner at Pasta Moon. Keep on the Nantucket Whale Inn or Seal Cove Inn, and for extra concepts, see my article in regards to the greatest issues to do in Half Moon Bay. 

Pescadero
A tiny farming city well-known for artichokes, goats, and legendary pie.

24-Hours in Pescadero: Wander by downtown, then cease at Pie Ranch Farm Stand for a freshly baked slice that’s well worth the drive alone. Spend the afternoon exploring Pescadero State Seaside, visiting the historic Pigeon Level Lighthouse, or taking a goat tour at Harley Farms. Espresso at Downtown Native retains issues easy, lunch at Arcangeli Grocery Co. is all in regards to the artichoke garlic herb bread, and dinner at Duarte’s Tavern is a neighborhood traditional. Keep at Pescadero Creek Inn or base your self close by in Half Moon Bay.

Capitola
Colourful, compact, and impossibly cheerful, with a village proper on the sand.

24-Hours in Capitola: Begin your day with breakfast at Blue Lava Café, then spend the morning hanging out at Capitola Seaside or strolling the charming village. Within the afternoon, lease a paddleboard, go fishing off Capitola Wharf, or head out for wine tasting at Armida. Lunch at La Marea is straightforward and beachy, whereas dinner at Trestles Restaurant appears like a deal with. Keep at Seascape Resort for ocean views and a laid-back coastal vibe.

Different Northern California Charming Cities

Ferndale

Victorian village, the place historic properties and old-school storefronts line the streets.

24-Hours in Ferndale: Spend your day visiting the Ferndale Museum, driving the Misplaced Coast Loop, exploring the Misplaced Coast Headlands, or catching a present on the Ferndale Repertory Theatre. Espresso and pastries at Thoughts’s Eye Manufactory & Espresso Lounge begin issues off proper, lunch at Ferndale Pizza Co. is informal and good, and a Mexican dinner at Tuyas is a neighborhood favourite. Keep on the Gingerbread Mansion Inn for full-on Victorian appeal.

Winters
Small, sunny, and pleasant, with wineries and outside entry simply minutes away.

24-Hours in Winters: Seize breakfast at Regular Eddy’s Espresso Home which is a neighborhood staple. Then stroll the historic downtown, discover Putah Creek Nature Park, or pop right into a tasting room for a simple afternoon. When you’re visiting in season, selecting your personal bouquet at Park Winters Flower Farm is such a easy pleasure. Head to Protect for lunch, and to Ficelle for a Spanish dinner that feels particular with out being stuffy. Keep at Lodge Winters proper within the coronary heart of city.

Nevada Metropolis
Creative, walkable, and fantastically preserved, with a powerful sense of neighborhood.

24-Hours in Nevada Metropolis: Begin the day with breakfastat Communal Cafe. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown, visiting Empire Mine State Historic Park, climbing in South Yuba River State Park, or paddleboarding at Scotts Flat Lake. Wine tasting at Nevada Metropolis Vineyard provides a relaxed break to the day. For lunch go to Heartwood Eatery for one in all their wholesome bowls, and revel in dinner at Restaurant DaKan that has a ardour for sustainable eating utilizing native items. Keep on the historic Nationwide Trade Lodge to completely absorb the city’s appeal.

Placerville
As soon as known as ‘Hangtown,’ now a pleasant Gold Rush-era vacation spot.

24-Hours in Placerville: get breakfast at Cuppa Espresso & Extra, then take a stroll downtown. After head out to discover Apple Hill, tour Gold Bug Park & Mine, or cease by a neighborhood vineyard. For lunch, The Market on Fundamental is a simple favourite, and dinner at The Smith Flat Home leans into the city’s historical past in one of the simplest ways. Keep at Eden Vale Inn for a comfortable and stress-free in a single day.

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