8 Hidden Attractions Locals Keep To Themselves In Northern California

Think you’ve seen it all? We bet there are more than a few places – hidden attractions in Northern California – that you’ve yet to explore, even if you’re a lifelong resident.

You won’t find these spots at the top of things-to-do lists for the Golden State. Maybe locals want to keep these activities to themselves. Or perhaps these activities just haven’t garnered the massive attention that other California must-see attractions have, like Lombard Street in San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, and Yosemite National Park. These places are more out-of-the-way and often only known to locals. From beloved restaurants to natural wonders to fun day trip ideas, there are activities on this list for everyone.

Clarksburg, CA 95612, USA

Vincent HT/Google Images

California’s wine country is one of the most renowned wine-producing regions in the world. But California is home to many other wine regions, like Amador County, Paso Robles, El Dorado County, and even the Sacramento Delta area. If you’re not familiar with the Sacramento Delta region, imagine a bayou-marshland setting surrounded by farms and vineyards. That’s right – there are many wineries along the Delta. Most are found in Clarksburg, including Bogle Vineyards, and at the Old Sugar Mill. From Clarksburg, head south to stop at Grand Island Vineyards in Walnut Grove. Some of the wineries require a reservation for a tasting and tour. Between wine tastings, explore the beautiful Delta towns. This is definitely a relaxed, casual, and memorable wine-tasting experience. Afterward, have dinner at one of the restaurants on the river.

Battery Point Lighthouse and Museum/Crescent City Lighthouse, 235 Lighthouse Way, Crescent City, CA 95531, USA

Carl Seawright/Google Images

Built in 1856, visitors can walk to this lighthouse during low tide via a tombolo. Known as the Crescent City Lighthouse, this was one of the first lighthouses built in California. The lighthouse is filled with items from the mid-1800s. During the tour, you can even climb the lighthouse tower. Daily tours are available when the lighthouse is accessible from land. Tours take place April through September, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. From October through March, the lighthouse is only open on weekends, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Be sure to research low tide times before you go, so you can schedule your visit and departure.

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Phantom Falls, Oroville, CA 95965, USA

Juan Cortez/Google Images

You can research and research beautiful natural settings to explore in Northern California, and Phantom Falls rarely comes up. Why? We honestly have no idea. Maybe locals just want to keep it for themselves, and we wouldn’t blame them. This stunning area looks just like the pictures – it is truly breathtaking. Hike the 4.1-mile out-and-back trail to explore the area. Admire the beautiful 166-foot falls. The water falls into a small pool at the bottom. The best time to visit is during the rainy season, which is late fall to early spring. This area is also a great place to view wildflowers.

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Mercer Caverns, 1665 Sheep Ranch Rd, Murphys, CA 95247, USA

Martin Bunker/Google Images

Discovered in 1885 by gold prospector Walter J. Mercer, it wasn’t long before curious visitors wanted tours. Since that time, people have come from near and far to tour this otherworldly cave. This family-friendly cavern experience is an unintimidating way to explore a 12-million-year-old cave system. The tours last about 45 minutes and cover about a quarter mile. There are a total of 440 steps going up and down in the cavern. There is no crawling on this tour, but there are some areas that are tight squeezes. Tour hours vary, so check the website for more details.

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Fort Ross State Historic Park, 19005 Coast Hwy, Jenner, CA 95450, USA

Dennis Jarvis/Flickr

Located in Sonoma County, this Russian-American fort is designated as a National Historic Landmark. Overlooking the rugged cliffs and wild Pacific Ocean, this is a history experience with a view! The fort was built in 1812 and was active until 1842. Fort Ross was the southernmost settlement of Russian colonists. It was the site of many activities, including fur trading, agriculture, and shipbuilding. Fort Ross is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Custom, private tours are available in English or Russian for an additional charge. If you’re not interested in a tour, you can pick up a free brochure at the Visitor Center and watch an 18-minute video about the fort's history.

Vision Quest Ranch, 400 River Rd, Salinas, CA 93908, USA

Bruce Holler/Google Images

Imagine spending a night inside a zoo. You’ll hear lions and tigers at night from the comfort of your tent cabin. This Northern California safari-themed bed & breakfast offers overnight accommodations and safari trips through their wildlife preserve. Get up close with animals and learn about these wild creatures. This is as close as you can get to an African safari in Northern California!

Pea Soup Andersen's, 12411 CA-33, Santa Nella, CA 95322, USA

Jessica Ford/Google Images

This iconic Danish-style restaurant can be seen from Interstate 5. Andersen’s is best known for its split pea soup (which is delicious!), but it also serves other hearty dishes. However, this place is so much more than just a restaurant. There is also a gift shop and little market, where you can buy cheese, wine, candy, and other goodies. Take pictures in the photo cut-outs in front.

You might recognize the restaurant's logo from your grocery store’s soup aisle - Andersen’s split pea soup has been sold in stores around the country for years. There are two Andersen’s in California: one near Santa Barbara in Southern California and this location in Santa Nella.

Garlic World, 4800 Monterey Highway, Gilroy, CA 95020, USA

Steve Rhodes/Flickr

Gilroy is the garlic capital of California. Since 1979, this town has hosted the Gilroy Garlic Festival, which was unfortunately canceled after 2019. But Gilroy is still the place to go for all things garlic-flavored. Garlic World has garlic in all forms, plus garlic-flavored foods, such as garlic kettle corn, garlic corn nuts, and even garlic ice cream.

We love spots that aren’t on every tourist itinerary! Have you visited any (or all?) of these lesser-known Northern California attractions? Tell us in the comments!