Best Things to Do in Northern California
Here is a list of the best fun, cool and unique things to do in Northern CA that will help make the trip exciting. Northern California offers countless activities. There may be difficulty in starting. Wine country in Napa or Sonoma Valley and its breathtaking red forests make for the perfect place for a relaxing holiday. It is incredibly important to visit famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Yosemite State Park, and Alcatraz Island. You should also visit Reyes National Seashore and drive along the California coastline.
From scenic state parks and national parks, the expansive city of Santa Clara or the breathtaking coastline along California coast Highway Northern California offers the ultimate travel destination. Discover Northern California and its interesting activities that make it an ideal place to visit in the Golden State.
Explore the beauty of natural beauty that lies in the regions that include the worlds oldest and tallest trees and golden sand beaches sloping gently toward southwestern California. Northern California offers many popular road trips that you can easily reach on day trips. The list below provides you with the best activities for Northern California to make your stay enjoyable.However, here is a list of the 30 fun, cool and unique things to do in Northern CAlifornia.
1. POINT REYES NATIONAL SEASHORE
Best places to visit in Northern California
Give yourself an afternoon getaway for the weekend in SF to Point Reyes National Seashore. This peninsula rising off the Pacific shoreline provides a great exit while travelling along the Pacific Coast Highway. Listen to the sound of Pacific Ocean waves breaking across the rugged coastline.
Visitors have an exclusive private beach surrounded with rocks protected from the sun. Take a walk along the coastline to see wildlife and bird species. You can visit natural places such as the Alammere falls and the Bear Valley. Take a short walk through the historic Lighthouse Point Reyes in 1870 for a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean.
2. Napa Valley
Best places to visit in Northern California
Napa Valley in the Napa Valley is an important wine region. Then visit wineries and sample amazing wines and you may find a host of exciting activities too. You can also visit Napa museum for an interesting history of the area.
The area can also be explored by walking the Silverado Trail, taking a scenic hike or taking a walk around one of the many scenic parks. These hot springs have also become a popular activity.
A journey to Napa Valley isn' t enough to enjoy some of the wine of the local region. There are almost 400 wineries in the region offering a huge selection of wines, from Cabernet Sauvignons to Chardonnays.
3. ALCATRAZ
Best places to visit in Northern California
Stand at the San Francisco coast and find Alcatraz secluded on an isolated beach less than two miles from the shoreline. Take an airplane ride to Alcatraz Island. It was once used as the federal prison, today the island is home to families touring abandoned buildings and ruins.
Alcatraz is the site of the first lighthouse on the West Coast that remains operating today. The ruins remain today a popular destination for visitors on a tour through the former prison. It is constructed between 1933 - 1963 and holds notorious criminals including Al Capone and machine gun kelley. Stay Here: Hotel Casa Fishermanswharf.
4. Bodega Bay
Best places to visit in Northern California
Bodega Bay is a waterside village in Sonoma County in California. The city is famous for its steep sloping cliffs, and sandy shorelines. You have several interesting activities in Bodaga Bay like fishing, birdwatching, kayaking and whale watching. Besides, this city is home to many galleries of artwork.
Take advantage of this great opportunity of saving some delicious food in the popular restaurants here. You may be looking for active holiday destinations that have many walking and cycling trails. It's not an easy trip to Bodega Bay without a drive out of Bodega Headlands to admire the spectacular coastline.
5. MENDOCINO COAST
Best places to visit in Northern California
The beautiful Mendocino Coast boasts sea views wherever one looks. In contrast to the coastal town and its preserved regional landscape a single morning won't suffice to experience everything it can offer. Enjoy postcard-perfect views of Point Arena Lighthouse, Point Cabrillo Light Station and other lighthouses in Mendocino.
Go for an ocean walk to the Mendocinos Headlands state park and see hidden ocean caves and sea pools which are visible only by fortunate visitors who deserve to swim. Visit the thriving fauna and plant life of a Mendocino coast plant garden. What's the Best Thing About a California Town?
6. SAN JOSE
Best places to visit in Northern California
See why tech companies in the Silicon Valley are establishing headquarters in Silicon Valley. Riding in town has been a historical conflict of times as technology giants such as Apple and Google contrast Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style downtown. San Jose is a great place for shopping and entertainment.
Pass under the iconic San Pedro Square sign and shop in downtown San Pedro Farmer Market or choose Santana Row, a modern business center that boasts over thirty bars and 50 shops. Continue reading : 37 AMAZING things in San Jose, California Stay here. Aloft Santa Clara San Jose North.
7. MUIR WOODS NATIONAL STATE MONUMENT
Best places to visit in Northern California
Muir Woods forest is located underneath some of the most impressive tree stands on Earth. The building was dedicated in 1906 to preserve redwood forests in the 450-acre region. Muirwood National Park is a national park with more than 1 million visitors yearly.
Explore the Hillside Trails for the ground-level views of giant trees thriving on Cathedral Grove. The tree can be seen up to 282-meters in height and hosts a variety of species of animals. Muir Wood is the National State Monument to the Sacred Planet and is the site of "Jurassic Park Rise of the Planets of Apes" and other famous movies.
8. GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE
Best places to visit in Northern California
The Golden Gate Bridge is a major landmark in Northern California. The museum has its own campus in San Francisco and attracts millions of people every year to admire the architecture of Art Deco. The Golden Gate Bridge became the highest suspension bridge of the world in 1880.
Its length is 82 feet over San Francisco Bay and measures 220ft high - a distance of 8900 feet. This facility can accommodate car traffic as well as pedestrian traffic on bicycles. Hike the Lands End Trail for a stunning view over the Golden Gate Bridge or climb Twin Peaks for a panoramic view over San Francisco.
9. MCARTHUR BURNEY FALLS
Best places to visit in Northern California
The river appears to be flowing down the side of McArthur Burney Falls as it revealed California's hidden treasure. The Falls and surrounding woods are officially designated as the second national park in California and remain very popular for visitors today.
Visitors may view the falls while parking at McArthur Burney Falls but its beauty cannot be experienced up close. Hike the short 1.4-mile loop to the bottom of the waterfall, where 129 feet of height can really be experienced. On hot days visitors can certainly get a swim under cool water. Stay There: Green Gables motels & suites.
10. LAKE TAHOE
Best places to visit in Northern California
Any time of year makes Lake Tahoe an annual favourite of northern California visitors. Bring the whole family along for an adventure. Lake Tahoe has dozens of recreational areas. Lake Tahoe lies along California and Nevada borders. During the summers it becomes an important destination for boaters.
Kayaking, canoeing, kayaking or paddleboating or even sunset dinner cruises occur here. During the winter, the famous Palisades Tahoe (Squaw valley) became a popular skiing destination once hosting the Winter Olympics and offers high-quality runs and a fun resort for family-friendly fun.
11. REDWOOD NATIONAL AND STATE PARKS
Best places to visit in Northern California
Explore the Redwood National Forest's majestic canopy as it reaches its highest point. It encloses three state parks with an extensive park complex which helps preserve an ancient region of redwood forests. Redwood National and State Parks display its varied landscapes, with redwood forests, Fern Canyon, and Elk Plain.
Continue through 31 miles of Giants Avenue trails to see Redwoods at heights up to 360 feet. Find hiking paths to sights like Hyperion or see limbs large enough for driving and walking! Read More: 12 best hiking trails at Redwood National Park (+2 near Gem).
12. Big Sur
Best places to visit in Northern California
Big Sur has been a favorite tourist attraction throughout California for decades and continues. Big Sur is situated on Highway 1 offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and offers numerous attractions for visitors. Most visitors come and view its magnificent bridges.
Two bridges are in operation: the Rocky Creek Bridge and the Bixby Creek Bridge (a little bigger). Hike- camping, fishing and kayaking is just another activity in Big Sur. This area is largely uninhabited and only has a few hotels, so be prepared before you start your journey to this amazing area.
13. Muir Woods
Best places to visit in Northern California
Muirwood is the most beautiful park in northern CA. Muir Woods National Monument is located about one hour north of San Francisco. There are a few redwood trees in the park that rise over the trail. Many of those ancient wonders date back 600 or even 800 years. The public can hike, picnic and watch bird watching in the parks.
Muir Woods also has a Visitors Centre offering educational programming about the Redwood ecosystem, as well as a café. It provides a perfect place for viewing this majestic and magnificent tree. Find redwood forests close to San Jose, California.
14. FORT BRAGG
Best places to visit in Northern California
The rocky coasts of California are home to numerous beauty such as Glass Beach. The MacKerricher State Park is a popular reason to visit Fort Bragg. Fort Bragg is a place on the Mendocino Coast, Northern California. Colorful glass eroded from the glass is replaced by the normal Sand of Glass Beach.
Visit Fort Bragg will introduce you to amazing natural sights like observing enormous redwoods passing through your window while cruising Skunk Trains in the canyon. Or you can walk along Fort Bragg coastline trails in search of ocean views. Stay There: Mermaid Manor.
15. Redwoods National and State Parks
Best places to visit in Northern California
Northern California has some of the highest peaks on earth. The Redwood National Park is an excellent destination for explorers of the forest. The park has towering coastal redwood forest and many other vegetation and animals. Guests are allowed walking, biking or parking, and many opportunities are available for camping, picnicking, and bird watching.
Along with the redwood forest, the parks have prairies, beach areas and a long-established forest. Redwood National and State Parks are ideal places for hiking for a longer trip.
16. MENDOCINO HEADLANDS STATE PARK
Best places to visit in Northern California
In 1974 Mendocino Headlands State Park was created. Interested travelers are encouraged to take part in this beautiful landscape. Hike along the seashore bluffs with panoramic views of the rocky coastline that extends to the Pacific Ocean. You will reach an overlook with panoramic views.
Visit beaches hidden behind cliffs that provide an isolated environment to swim, surf, dive and catch fish. The park is 347 acres and provides many attractions and activities to suit the entire population. Stay at Seagull Inn Beds & Breakfast.
17. The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
Best places to visit in Northern California
Highway 1, California's most scenic route, has many interesting things to see. It is possible from San Francisco to Monterey to take a road tour of the coastline. These routes take you through some of the best coastlines in the state and you may have the chance for a stop near popular tourist destinations.
As you head south towards Monterey, you're able to tour Point Lobos State Marine Reserve (an excellent state park in California) check out Big Sur. Whatever you do experience, Highway 1 will give you a wonderful experience.
18. Mount Shasta
Best places to visit in Northern California
Northern California offers incredible views. From the tall mountains of Sierra Nevada to the redwood forest on the coastline, the natural world is full of interesting natural wonders. Mount Shasta is an iconic jewel of this area. It is an impressive peak of 14,179 feet (4321.9 meters) and boasts breathtaking scenery over southeastern Washington.
The hike to the top is a popular activity and several routes pass through the trees and meadows at higher altitudes. Mount Shasta will remain an unforgettable experience regardless.
19. Anderson Valley
Best places to visit in Northern California
Visit Anderson Valley will give you a great experience in Northern California. This beautiful area is famous for its scenic beauty and a number of activities are provided to tourists. The main thing you will find at Anderson Valley is a wine tasting. The region has several wineries that offer guided tours and wine tastings.
I love to stop by the Navarro Vineyard and Winery, Roederer Estate, and Toulouse Vineyard and Winery. Aside from wine tastings, Anderson Valley is also a great place to hike, fish, or watch birdlife.
20. SANTA CRUZ
Best places to visit in Northern California
Take the short trip to Santa Cruz. With a wide sandy coast, it's one of the favorite beaches no matter where you plan on going. For water-lovers, go directly to Main Beach where it will be fun to surf the fresh water of Monterey Bay. Visit the unique rock formations when walking along Nature Bridge State bridge.
Those who don't swim are welcome to visit the beach setting. Get some scoop from Penny Ice Creamery and head onto Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Take a trip to the surf museum to discover Santa Cruzs surf heritage.
21. Eureka and Humboldt County
Best places to visit in Northern California
Humboldt County has an excellent location for those that like to explore outdoors. The region has seven national parks offering numerous activities such as hiking, biking, fishing and camping. Redwood National Park (mentioned above) is particularly famous because it contains the world’s tallest tree species.
Other great park areas are Humboldt Redwood State Park, King Range National Conservation Area and 6 Rivers National Forest. The Eureka county seat offers several museums and restaurants to satisfy the desire.
22. Sonoma County
Best places to visit in Northern California
Sonoma County offers another wonderful location with wines that are perfect for soaking up nature's beauty. The region offers several hiking paths to explore ranging from leisure walks to more difficult treks. It is also possible to ride sleds or bikes through this beautiful area. You can see more than 400 different wineries.
Alternatively a few artisan beer bars can be found here. Small towns and villages offering charming boutique shops. You might even consider Sonoma County a great spot for some relaxation.
23. RUSSIAN RIVER
Best places to visit in Northern California
Northern California has many beautiful natural sights like the Russia River. The river runs through the famous Sonoma Vineyard, where tourists have a lot to offer. Russian River is an ideal place to enjoy the water.
Johnson Beach and other rivershore beaches are ideal places to enjoy the sun. Boat rental option is also available. Visit wineries like Korbel Winery dating from the 1800's who maintain their fame for exquisite wines. Please remain here: Russian River Campsite Cottages.
24. San Francisco
Best places to visit in Northern California
San Francisco has plenty of interesting attractions for tourists. The city has everything for everyone from iconic bridges to world-class museums. You should check out the Golden Gate Bridge and other landmarks for your next vacation to SF. Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay from the pedestrian bridges at the Golden Gate Bridge.
On this point there are views of Alcatraz Island, downtown San Francisco and Sausalito. See more information about Golden Gate.
25. Sausalito
Best places to visit in Northern California
When visiting San Francisco you must travel north across the river to the waterfront town of Sausalito. There will be a number of fun activities available in Sausalito. You can also visit Sausalito by ferry from San Francisco.
A 30-minute boat trip around the Bay offers stunning views of the Bay. You can have something relaxing too and there's plenty to do. It is possible to visit any museum or art gallery or enjoy coffee in one or more local cafés.
26. Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel is an attractive beach town in Northern California. It's also famous for its charming shopping center, art gallery or good dining place. In Carmelby-Sea you can find many other interesting activities including the visit of its museum ruins and the Carmel Basilica.
You can even go beachside or hike up the coast and play golf! It is easily reached in Carmel. Many lovely accommodation are on offer. Other places you should visit at Carmel-by-the-Sea.
27. Pebble Beach and 17-Mile Drive
Pebble Beach is one popular attraction in Northern California. Pebble beaches are home to renowned golf courses, spectacular beaches and hiking trails. 17 Mile Drive is a scenic route along the Pebble Beach coast that includes a variety of secluded and beautiful views including the famous Lone Cypress tree. Pebble Beach as well as 18-mile Drive are important tourist spots on a visit to Northern California.
28. MONO LAKE
Located on Mono's edge, the limingstone cliffs form castles. The unusual shape has intrigued some photographers or naturalists and I am unsure if this will work. Bring the camera to view the wildlife at Mono Lake.
The artistic natural form is perfect for photographs of large lakes inhabited by paddlers and canoeers. Exit from Hwy 395, here you first get to the Mono Lake visitor center. Stay Here: Yosemite Gateway Hotel.
29. SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
The geothermic landscapes of Southern California are hotspots in hot springs. The natural pool with temperatures above 100°F is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the area. You can enjoy the finest Hot Springs Experience in NorCal.
Visit the Travertine Hot Springs or Wild Willy Hot Springs outside Mammoth Lakes to enjoy views of the mountains. What is fun to see in Mammoth Lake California during Summer?
30. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen National Forest offers a great place to enjoy the outdoors. One highlight of any trip is going to an area that is hydrothermally cooled. Some of my top choices here include Pilot Pinnacle Steam ducts, boiling pools and mud cylinders, Sulphur Works.
Other enjoyable activities in Lassen National Park include hiking (about 165 miles of trails! Several ranger-led courses are available throughout the year.
Sacramento
Sacramento is a city on the northern side of California which has become a tourist destination. The city hosts numerous notable landmarks including the Sacramento State Capitol and historic Old Sacramento.
There are various activities for you to try like visiting the California State Rail Museum, boarding rafting boats on the Sacramento River, or going walking in the parks. It isn't hard to find a better place in Sacramento to visit.
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy views of massive rock formations rising out of Yosemite Valley. It's one of the best viewpoints at Yosemite National Park but it's only the first of all that's to be discovered here. Visit Yosemite National Park is one of the finest attractions in Northern California.
Take an 850-mile route through the park that leads you to El Capitan half dome and other famous rocky formations.
Golden Gate Bridge — San Francisco
US101, San Francisco, CA 93129 (415) 931-65858 The Golden Bridge has an 1.7-km length which opened in 1937 in San Francisco's Bay region connecting San Francisco to California.
Yosemite National Park — Yosemite National Park
Yosemite California 95389 (209) 372-0200 The Yosemite National Park is America's first National Park. It is the first national park to bid for hosting the Winter Games.
Lake Tahoe — Kings Beach
Kings Beach California 96143. Its dimensions range from 1500.7 km3 and 1,645 ft deep. Lake Tahoe was once the biggest lake in North America and the 2nd deepest.
Angel Island — San Francisco
Pier 41 San Francisco, CA 90109 425-336-4191. Angel Island is the largest island in California and is primarily used by the American Army from 1863 to 1946.
Twin Peaks — San Francisco
The twin peaks are two mountain ranges in the city of San Francisco that are roughly 660 ft in height.
Why you should go to college?
Lake Tahoe is the perfect spot for those who want to explore North-West California. The region features spectacular countryside and is very beautiful throughout all the years with spectacular trails for walking.
The lake has also been blessed with wonderful family accommodations including Squaw Valley Mountain Resort, where people were seen around the globe for the Winter Olympics 1960.
Tell me the best thing to do?
It has some beautiful sights and views in Northern California. Walk along the bridge near the Welcome Centre and witness the splendour from an elevated viewpoint.
Another way to view the Gate can be to view it from a vantage point as Crissy fields and land. Recommended Hotel nearby: Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square.
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