Small towns make up a lot more land space around Northern California than all of those big cities you hear about around here. Most of us grew up in towns that were pretty to look at, too. Everybody knew everybody and we found a lot more joy in the simple things in life. Maybe that's why we love looking for new small towns to visit. It takes us back to a sweeter time when people slept without locking their front door and neighbors knew each other by name. Here are a 15 picturesque small towns in Northern California that are worth a visit.

1. Nevada City

This pretty place is sometimes forgotten by folks in Northern California. Yet, every Christmas she puts on one of the best holiday events this state has to offer--the+ "Victorian Christmas". The backdrop of this historical town shows off big time, so make sure to stop by and check it out. Find more information on the official website of Nevada City, California.

2. Sausalito

Like something out of a movie--Sausalito is postcard pretty. If you're not one of the lucky ones to live in a houseboat on the water...how about coming for an early breakfast and taking a walk downtown? It's so worth your time! Plan your trip, starting on the official website of Visit Sausalito.

3. Dunsmuir

If you're travelling on Highway 5 northbound and headed to Oregon, you need to stop here first. It's the most northern "pretty town" before you cross state lines. Dunsmuir has done a great job keeping their historical roots front and center. Stop by for lunch or take a little time and hike the trails to Mossbrae Falls or climb Mt. Shasta. This pretty place is intoxicating. Learn more on the official website of Dunsmuir Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center.

4. Bodega Bay

There's a reason Alfred Hitchcock chose Bodega Bay for his movie "The Birds," and it isn't just because of the local birds. This place is beauty on steroids. Make sure you don't forget your camera. Here's the official website for Bodega Bay.

5. Mariposa

With Yosemite in your neck of the woods is it possible to be anything else but pretty? The scenery here calls to us and will continue to draw folks to see how God shows off in nature for generations to come. Check out the official website of Mariposa County, California.

6. Placerville

Nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills is this adorable gold rush town. This sweet spot on the map is worth a look-see. Rustic and woody, picturesque and majestic with the backdrop of the Sierra Nevadas. Stop by the official website of the City of Placerville for more information.

7. Los Gatos

Surrounded by the Santa Cruz Mountains and in the San Jose foothills, the town of Los Gatos may have gotten a lot bigger. However, it's kept its small town charm. Victorian homes dot the area, and residents love their picturesque hiking trails and biking trails. Netflix calls this town home, too. Head over to the official website of the Town of Los Gatos.

8. Mendocino

Fiction writers who tell stories about quaint seaside towns must all be thinking about the adorable "Mendocino" town. Just gorgeous! It's definitely one of those picture-perfect Northern California towns that belongs on your bucket list. Here's the official website for Visit Mendocino County.

9. Pacific Grove

Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the beauty that nature brings is Pacific Grove. Filled with tiny beach homes and people outside walking and enjoying their beautiful scenery, it's just lovely. Visit the official website of Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce to plan your visit.

10. Ferndale

Not everyone has been to this pretty spot on the map. Ferndale is even more beautiful than you imagine. The seaside location with dairy cows and pasture land kept green by the misty air is just incredible. Plan your journey to the picturesque town on the official website of Visit Ferndale.

11. Grass Valley

Well, hello Grass Valley! You don't get the attention you deserve because you often stand in the shadow of Nevada City -- but people would be pleasantly surprised with the beauty you bring and your downtown history. Find more information on the official website of City of Grass Valley.

12. Yountville

Located in the Napa Valley and named after the gentleman who planted the very first vineyard, Yountville is that pricey place that is nice to visit because she's not only beautiful but she cooks incredibly well, too. Some of the best food in Northern California is served here. Find more information on the official website of Yountville.

13. Fort Bragg

What can you say about Fort Bragg that people don't already know? Gorgeous. Peaceful. Worth a trip. Consider going on a hike where you'll be surrounded by nature and far from the closest cell tower. Here's more information on Fort Bragg.

14. Tahoe City

We're not sure if Tahoe City is her prettiest during winter, summer, spring, or fall? Which do you think? Whatever your answer, you'll definitely want to visit what's been called "America's Best Mountain Town." Check out the official website of Tahoe City.

15. Petaluma

Ahhhh, the lovely Petaluma. Once the home of the Miwok Indians, and at one time "The Egg Capitol of the World" because of the chicken houses here. Did you know the egg incubator was invented in Petaluma? Beauty and brains all right here! Discover all there is to see and to do in this picturesque small town on the official website of Visit Petaluma.

Which picturesque small towns in Northern California are your favorite when you need some pretty scenery? Let us know in the comments! Next time you've been struck with wanderlust, hit the road on this road trip to these 10 beautiful small towns in Northern California.