Trips & Routes

Small Towns

Trips & Routes
Small Towns

One of Southern California’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar

Learn all about one of the quirkiest towns in California, filled with unique attractions and small-town charm. A hidden gem worth exploring.

by Courtnie Erickson
on May 29
Looking toward a unique art display with a statue of legs sticking out of a barrel at an outdoor art museum in Joshua Tree, California.
Trips & Routes

One of Northern California’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar

by Charlie Boyle
on May 7
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com//trip-ideas/texas/quirkiest-town-flying-under-radar-tx
Trips & Routes

This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Southern California

by Megan Todaro
on Apr 28
A peaceful view of Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, California, showing several white sailboats and yachts docked in the calm blue water.
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Locals Hope This Small Beach Town in Northern California Stays off Tourists’ Radar

by Charlie Boyle
on Mar 14
A dark turquoise ocean meets tall, sandy cliffs with hills of greenery and a long highway beyond.
Trips & Routes

Hidden Beach Town in Southern California You Need to Visit

by Katie Lawrence
on Jun 16
Turquoise waves roll toward Harford Pier in Avila Beach, California, with surfers nearby.

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Small Towns

Discover the Americana Town in Northern California So Charming You’ll Want to Keep It a Secret

This small town in Northern California is peak coastal Americana.

by Charlie Boyle
on Nov 4
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Small Towns

This Southern California Coastal Town Feels Like Sayulita, Mexico, and It’s Pure Bliss

Discover this laid-back coastal town with colorful murals, craft breweries, vineyards, and bohemian charm that rivals Sayulita, Mexico.

by Kate Orlando
on Oct 24
Teens skipping in Lompoc, CA
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Small Town in Northern California Feels Like It’s Straight Out of ‘Twilight’

Are you a "Twilight" fan? This small town in Northern California feels eerily like Forks.

by Charlie Boyle
on Apr 3
A paved path curves through a forest of thick redwood trees.
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Small Towns

The Southern California Mountain Village Almost Nobody Talks About

If you're craving solitude in Southern California, this is your secret escape.

by Kate Orlando
on Jul 2
Looking toward a forest with light fall foliage sprinkled throughout and tall mountains in the distance.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Why Felton, California, the Gateway of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Is Worth a Visit in Its Own Right

This small town is so much more than the entrance to a state park.

by Charlie Boyle
on Jun 19
White and wood buildings with bright colors and signs sit on a road with chairs and tables in front of some of the buildings.
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Small Towns

The Remote Town in Northern California We Simply Can’t Get Enough Of

Boonville is one of the most charming small towns in Northern California. It has beautiful scenery, great wine, a rich history, and even its own language.

by Katie Lawrence
on Jun 10
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Small Towns

Skip Europe This Summer: This Town in Northern California Is Just as Charming as the Uk’s Southern Seaside

Visit beautiful Carmel-by-the-Sea and see for yourself how similar it is to the UK's southern seaside towns.

by Charlie Boyle
on Jun 9
A cottage-influenced building with plants and flowers growing all over it.
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Small Towns

This Sleepy Northern Californian Town Is the Perfect Dupe for the Irish Countryside

A visit to this small town might just scratch your itch for the rolling green hills of the Irish countryside.

by Andrea Verschuyl
on Apr 3
Green rolling hills and a small lake in the background near Vacaville, California.
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Small Towns

Love Vacationing in Italy? Try This Similar Spot in Southern California

Hold off on that ticket to Southern Italy. You can get the same slow-paced, sun-kissed experience closer to home.

by Andrea Verschuyl
on Mar 23
The waterfront town of Avalon on Catalina Island is seen from between eucalyptus trees.
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Small Towns

Calistoga Is a Walkable Town in Northern California Known for Its Rejuvenating Hot Springs and Mud Baths

A trip to Napa Valley wouldn't be complete without a spa day detour in this vibrant small town.

by Jennifer Brooks-Parker
on Feb 27
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Road Trips
Small Towns

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of Northern California’s Most Charming Small Towns

Take in the views from the mountains to the coast as you visit and explore five delightful towns in Northern California.

by Natasha Kayes
on Nov 21
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Day Trips
Small Towns

The Up-and-Coming City in Southern California That’s Perfectly Sized

Discover the heart of San Diego County with a trip to Ramona, California. With vineyards, wineries, hiking, and more, this up-and-coming city has it all.

by Megan Todaro
on Nov 29
An aerial view of a Ramona, California, a small pond, and the surrounding mountains.
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Small Towns

This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town in California Is So Worth Exploring

Once you discover the itty-bitty town of Harmony, CA, you'll want to return again and again.

by Natasha Kayes
on Sep 29
A cow statue stands in front of a unique building in Harmony, CA.
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Small Towns

The Remote Destination in Northern California Where the Drive Is Worth the Final Views

Explore stunning rugged bluffs, beaches, and tide pools at the remote town of Fort Bragg.

by Natasha Kayes
on Oct 25
Waves crash against rocky shores, with misty cliffs and distant formations under a cloudy sky.
State Pride
History
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Small Towns

The Desert Community in Southern California That Has Long Become Abandoned

Desert Center was once a bustling town and rest stop thriving in the harsh Southern California desert.

by Natasha Kayes
on Sep 24
Abandoned café building with a faded sign, surrounded by desert landscape and graffiti on the walls.
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Small Towns
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Vacation Rentals

Plan the Perfect Fall Getaway in the Small Southern California Town of Oak Glen

Book an Oak Glen getaway full of fall color and fun activities with your ideal home away from home.

by Natasha Kayes
on Sep 27
A cider mill in Oak Glen, California, is surrounded by trees with vibrant yellow and red leaves.
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Small Towns

This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town in Northern California Is So Worth Exploring

This tiny town in NorCal is a designated California Historical Landmark. Despite its small size, Coulterville is a place you'll want to visit!

by Kate Freeman
on Sep 29
Looking down a quiet, small main street in Coulterville, CA.
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Small Towns

The Best Small Town Getaway In Southern California: Best Things To Do In Solvang

by Natasha Kayes
on Jul 18
Charming street scene with colorful shops, outdoor seating, and flags in a quaint village setting.
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Small Towns

You’d Never Expect To Find Such A Happening Restaurant On This Rural Two-Lane Road In Northern California

by Kate Freeman
on Mar 20
A colorful restaurant and market called "The Road Trip" with unique custom vehicles parked outside.
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Small Towns

The Unique City In Northern California That Is So Much More Than Your Average College Town

by Kate Freeman
on Feb 23
A sunny park with palm trees, people relaxing on the grass, and cars parked nearby in a vibrant town square.
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Small Towns

Spend A Weekend In This Under-The-Radar Northern California Town Chock Full Of History

by Kate Freeman
on Feb 14
Historic buildings line a street, featuring shops and galleries, with a hillside in the background under a clear blue sky.
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Small Towns

Angels Camp In Northern California Is The Very Definition Of Small Town Charm

by Kate Freeman
on Dec 4
A street lined with shops displaying various flags, including the Confederate flag, with parked cars and trees.
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Small Towns

Enjoy A Classical Christmas When You Visit This Charming County In Northern California

by Kate Freeman
on Nov 29
A charming street lined with historic buildings, decorated with lights, under a twilight sky.
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Small Towns

This Charming Community Might Just Be The Most Peaceful Place To Live In Northern California

by Kate Freeman
on Nov 24
A scenic view of a sandy beach with cliffs and gentle waves under a clear blue sky.
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Small Towns

The Enchanting Town In Northern California Is One Of The Best Places To Enjoy Autumn

by Kate Freeman
on Oct 31
Historic buildings line a street, featuring colorful facades and a church steeple in the background under a clear blue sky.
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Small Towns

The Most Remote Small Town in Northern California Is the Perfect Place To Get Away From It All

Surrounded on all sides by dense forests, towering peaks, and crystal clear waters, Trinity Center, California, is a well-kept secret.

by Jennifer Brooks-Parker
on Nov 13
An aerial view of Trinity Lake from a mountain trail in Northern California.
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Small Towns

The Most Charming College Town In Southern California Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More

Claremont, CA, is a charming college town with a vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and numerous outdoor activities.

by Natasha Kayes
on Sep 14
A sunny street scene featuring the Verbal Building, trees, and people walking along a charming downtown area.
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Small Towns

The Small Town In Northern California That Comes Alive In The Fall Season

by Megan Todaro
on Sep 11
Aerial view of the Lodi entrance arch, with shops and trees in the background under a cloudy sky.
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Small Towns

The Most Charming College Town In Northern California Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More

by Kate Freeman
on Sep 5
Historic brick building with a dome, surrounded by trees and green lawns, on a sunny day. Pathway leads to the entrance.
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Small Towns

Enjoy The Simple Life When You Visit This Tiny Rural Community In Northern California

Oakdale, known as the "Cowboy Capital of the World," offers a blend of rural charm, historic architecture, and vibrant community events.

by Kate Freeman
on Sep 2
A rider in blue attire on a horse, holding a flag, parades down a street with spectators watching.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Enjoy Classic California Views from this Picturesque Coastal Town

Elk, a small coastal town in Northern California, offers breathtaking ocean views, charming small-town ambiance, and a historic inn with a Michelin-starred restaurant.

by Megan Todaro
on Aug 4
A serene coastal view at sunset, featuring wooden chairs and a fire pit overlooking the ocean and rocky cliffs.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

There’s No Community In Northern California More Enchanting And Historic Than Quincy, California

Quincy, a historic town in Northern California, offers a unique blend of well-preserved buildings and natural beauty within the Plumas National Forest.

by Kate Freeman
on Jul 27
Historic stone building with arched windows, flanked by a white building, and parked red cars in front.
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Small Towns

Nestled In Northern California Wine Country, The Small Town Of Glen Ellen Is A Charming Place To Get Away

Glen Ellen is a tranquil Northern California wine-country town known for its scenic landscapes, historic sites, and numerous wineries.

by Kate Freeman
on Jul 26
Historic buildings with a wooden balcony and stone facade, set on a quiet street with trees and power lines.
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Small Towns

7 Small Towns In Rural Northern California That Are Downright Delightful

Explore the unique charm and character of rural towns in Northern California, each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

by Kate Freeman
on Jul 25
A quiet street lined with historic buildings and parked cars, bathed in warm morning light.
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Small Towns

The Scenic Drive In Northern California That Runs Straight Through The Charming Small Town Of Weaverville

California State Route 3 offers a scenic drive through historic Weaverville, featuring natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Jul 10
A scenic view of a lake surrounded by mountains and trees under a partly cloudy sky.
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Small Towns

We Bet You Didn’t Know These Rural Northern California Destinations Even Existed

Explore the hidden treasures of Northern California, featuring remote and scenic destinations perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

by Kate Freeman
on Jul 18
A scenic view of a lush green valley surrounded by trees and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The ‘Cowboy Capital’ In Northern California Is One Of The Friendliest Small Towns You’ll Ever Visit

Oakdale, known as the "Cowboy Capital of The World," offers a blend of western charm, scenic beauty, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.

by Kate Freeman
on Jul 14
A group of cowboys on horseback parades down a street, wearing hats and traditional attire.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

7 Sleepy Small Towns In Northern California Where Things Never Seem To Change

Seven small towns in Northern California offer a nostalgic escape from modern life with their tranquil and historic charm.

by Kate Freeman
on Jul 6
Sign reading "Rio Vista" by the water, with a bridge in the background and clear blue skies above.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Off-The-Beaten-Path Destination In Northern California Is The Perfect Place To Escape

Discover the tranquil and scenic beauty of Fall River Mills, an off-the-beaten-path destination in Northern California.

by Kate Freeman
on Jul 3
A quiet small town street with shops, trees in autumn colors, and a cloudy sky in the background.
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Small Towns

With A Farmer’s Market, Weekly Events, And Seasonal Festival, There’s Nothing Like A Summer Weekend In This Northern California Town

Grass Valley in Northern California offers a vibrant summer experience with farmers' markets, a major music festival, and various events.

by Kate Freeman
on Jun 27
A bustling farmers market with people shopping under blue tents, surrounded by fresh produce and greenery.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Move To One Of These 5 Places In Northern California For Amazing Affordable Living

Discover affordable towns in Northern California that offer a lower cost of living, tight-knit communities, and abundant outdoor activities.

by Kate Freeman
on Jun 13
A classic building with columns surrounded by trees, and a parked truck in front on a sunny day.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Trinidad Is A Magical Place In Northern California That You Thought Only Existed In Your Dreams

Trinidad in Northern California is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and tranquil environment.

by Kate Freeman
on May 29
Rocky archway on a beach, framed by moss-covered stones and sandy shore, with ocean view in the background.
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Small Towns

A Charming and Historic Small Town in Northern California, Ferndale Is Seemingly Frozen in Time

Ferndale, California, is a historic town known for its well-preserved Victorian buildings and charming downtown.

by Kate Freeman
on Jun 3
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Small Towns

Here Are 5 Locally-Famous Restaurants In The Small Town Of San Andreas In Northern California

San Andreas in Northern California offers a charming small-town experience with several locally-famous restaurants.

by Kate Freeman
on May 26
A charming deli named "Pickle Patch" with a red roof, surrounded by greenery and a welcoming porch.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

You Could Spend Forever Exploring This Southern California Town, But We’ll Settle For A Weekend

San Clemente, California, offers a charming small-town vibe with beautiful beaches, Spanish-style architecture, and a lively downtown district.

by Natasha Kayes
on Apr 25
A sunny plaza with palm trees, hanging flower baskets, and Spanish-style buildings in the background.