13 Best Attractions In Northern California, According To Visitors

Whether you're planning an unforgettable road trip along the beloved Highway 1 or just searching for a quick weekend escape in the Golden State, these visitor-approved destinations are sure to make you fall in love with the rugged terrain of Northern California. The region stands out for its extraordinary geographic and ecological diversity, and it's home to some of the most distinctive landscapes in the United States. Along the Pacific Coast, you'll find dramatic sea cliffs, secluded beaches, and some of America's most iconic drives.

It doesn't end there. Fertile valleys like Napa and Sonoma produce globally recognized wines, while dramatic volcanoes reveal the region's dynamic geologic history. Northern California's climate ranges from foggy coastal zones to snowy Sierra peaks, which is part of why it offers an incredible range of outdoor recreation, making it a real "something for everyone" kind of place. Beyond its natural beauty, the region is rich in cultural and historical sites, including Gold Rush towns, Indigenous heritage landmarks, and diverse communities. This list could run forever, but we've narrowed it down to a collection of destinations that weave together Northern California's distinct nature and history.

Redwoods can measure more than 300 feet in height and 17 feet in diameter, and average 500 to 700 years old. They have a way of putting things into perspective. That's why visiting the many trails and scenic drives within Redwood National and State Parks is among the most highly ranked experiences, not just in Northern California, but across the Golden State and the entire U.S. visitors on Google say it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that's filled with "wonder and awe."

Located just below the Oregon state line, the Redwood National and State Parks network covers more than 100,000 acres of groves and coastline. It's worth spending at least a full day among these friendly giants, although reviewers recommend avoiding the overcrowded campgrounds. "If you have ANY expectation of nice relaxed & quiet camping experience, do NOT stay here its absolutely ridiculous," said one Google reviewer. Some great full-day hikes include the Karl Knapp to Foothill Trail Loop and the Boy Scout Tree Trail. If you prefer to take in the scenic trees by car, take Exit 765 or 753 off Highway 101 for the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, a 10-mile drive through the heart of the redwoods.

Compared to the redwoods, which are the world's tallest trees, the sequoias are the world's largest trees by volume and are another jaw-dropping sight to behold. Their scale and majesty are frequently described by visitors on Google as "impossible to capture in photos" and "exceeding all expectations." While redwoods love the humidity of the coast, the sequoias prefer drier inland climates, and are located much farther south–at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Sequoia National Park, America's second-oldest national park, is about a four-hour drive from San Jose and Los Angeles.

It's definitely worth checking out the Giant Forest, a grove of sequoias that number about 8,000 and includes the famous one: General Sherman Tree. General Sherman is the largest single-stem tree in the world by volume and presents a fun photo opportunity and challenge for anyone ambitious enough to try and capture its sheer scale. If you prefer to check out the sequoias by car, you can head to the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.

Located at the border of California and Nevada, this is the one inland beach you absolutely must visit in Northern California. According to visitors, Lake Tahoe's crystal-clear waters, dramatic alpine mountains, and panoramic lake views are what make the parks around this beautiful lake an all-year-round destination. It's also a great lake to go swimming and water sports, with the water warming up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the hottest months of summer.

Emerald Bay State Park is one of the most idyllic places to take in glistening lake views, and is also designated a National Natural Landmark. Popular activities include hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing. You also don't want to miss a tour of the well-known Vikingsholm Castle, a gorgeous replica of Scandinavian architecture that was built in this location because the area is so reminiscent of Scandinavian fjords.

The historic Stateline Fire Lookout is one of the best places for sweeping views of the lake. It sits at the top of an old fire road, almost a full mile hike that climbs about 400 feet of elevation. There are small trails that go through the forest nearby.

Mount Shasta, an active volcano surrounded by vast wilderness, is located about four to five hours from San Francisco, on the north side of the Cascade Range. The park surrounding it is the largest national forest in the state of California, offering pristine lakes, hiking trails, climbing, and snow sports — not to mention awe-inspiring vistas of the volcano. There's always something to do here, no matter the season.

The mountain has been winning over hearts and minds for many generations. John Muir, the father of U.S. National Parks, once wrote, as noted by the NPS: "Mount Shasta ... rises in solitary grandeur from a lightly sculptured lava plain, and maintains a far more impressive and commanding individuality than any other mountain within the limits of California."

Folks who have visited leave overwhelmingly warm Tripadvisor reviews, saying the park's wilderness is simply "unbelievable" and "spectacular." A few visitors even note that the mountain's profound beauty has inspired spiritual, healing experiences. In fact, thanks in large part to its centrality in the spiritual beliefs of the local Native Shasta, Wintu, Achumawi, Atsugewi, and Modoc, the mountain has become an internationally recognized spiritual landmark. One Tripadvisor reviewer says, "This is one enigmatic part of the world travellers of spirit should make the effort getting to."

Northern California offers many museums and historic sites that showcase its rich Gold Rush history. Highway 49 connects dozens of the charming Gold Rush towns within what is commonly known as "Gold Country," stretching from Auburn just outside Sacramento to Sierra City farther north. Traveling this road immerses visitors in 19th-century frontier life. Visitors report this is the perfect route for a multiday family road trip. Mike and Anne of HoneyTrek write: "...this route serves up gorgeous mountains, raging rivers, alpine lakes, and wine country for a trip that's got it all!"

Visitors recommend stopping by Empire Mine State Historic Park and Columbia State Historic Park, which both have remarkably well-preserved historic sites. Empire Mine was one of the largest mines during the Gold Rush, and Columbia preserves an entire Gold Rush-era town. Visitors can listen to music in an old saloon, see gold artifacts in the museum, and wander through the streets filled with costumed docents, stagecoaches, and more. Many boutique hotels along the way boast beautifully restored boom-town buildings, including The Holbrook Hotel and The National Exchange Hotel. You'll also want to pop into the many antique shops nearby that offer one-of-a-kind goods, such as Meyers Antiques.

Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley wineries are celebrated around the world for their fine wines. Napa Valley, located just north of San Francisco, is officially composed of 16 different winemaking regions, or "appellations." Sonoma Valley, about 30 minutes southwest of Napa, has 19 appellations. Each one has its own microclimate and personality, meaning there's an endless world of flavors, culture, and tradition to explore.

Napa Valley is most widely known for its Cabernets and high-end luxury attractions with a price tag to boot. For example, Castello di Amorosa is one of the most popular wineries in Napa, and makes its home inside a spellbinding Tuscany-inspired castle. Tasting and tour packages range from $75 to $195 per person.

Sonoma, by comparison, has a reputation for being relatively laid-back, with a more casual atmosphere. Some of the highest-rated wineries in this area include Domaine Carneros, J Vineyards & Winery, and Jacuzzi Family Vineyards. With farm tours, biking trails, and the nearby coast, visiting California's wine country can easily turn into a complete weekend getaway.

Arguably the most unique beach in the United States, Glass Beach is remarkable not only for its gorgeous views of the Pacific but also for the smooth stones found scattered across its shores. Located in the charming town of Fort Bragg, the beach is also known for its scenic drive. It's only about three hours from San Francisco, or closer to five hours if you're up for an adventure along the more scenic route along Highway 1.

Sea glass comes from decades of discarded man-made glass that nature gradually transforms into smooth gems. Until the 1960s, residents dumped household garbage — including bottles, jars, and car parts — into the ocean nearby. Over time, waves, sand, and saltwater broke down and tumbled the glass, rounding sharp edges. After the dumping stopped and cleanup began, nature continued to polish what remained.

It's definitely worth taking a trip into the town of Fort Bragg after your trip to the beach — known as a laid-back, artsy getaway — to stop by the Sea Glass Museum. It's home to the largest collection of sea glass in the world, with a collection of more than 3,000 unique pieces. Even lifelong collectors are blown away by the museum's displays.

Mendocino is nearly always at the top of the list when it comes to the most charming areas of Northern California. In the town of Fort Bragg, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens offers a stunning 47-acre display of native and exotic flora and fauna by the sea. One Tripadvisor reviewer wrote: "This place has flora I've never seen before, and an unbelievable variety of plant life that I wish could grow on the East Coast." Visitors praise the garden's blend of horticulture, serene coastal scenery, and accessible paths that are accessible all year long, though some feel the price is a bit steep ($24 per person).

Of special note are the rhododendron and dahlia collections that peak in spring, and wild mushrooms that thrive in winter. One visitor left a glowing review on Tripadvisor, saying, "Walking through the vibrant dahlia garden feels like stepping into a painter's palette." The grounds are a birdwatcher's paradise, with more than 180 species passing through annually, including red-throated loons, black oystercatchers, and double-crested cormorants. The gardens offer regular events, including mushroom walks and plant identification workshops led by experts. Special pricing is available for members.

Visitors say the best way to view the city's iconic Golden Gate Bridge is from Crissy Field, a gorgeous park on the edge of the San Francisco Bay. This gorgeous park that's right on the water offers a beachy feel within reach of the city. Once an Army airfield, this restored waterfront park has become one of San Francisco's most beloved open spaces.

On sunny days, Crissy Field comes alive with joggers, cyclists, kite surfers, and families picnicking on the beach. The park's wide promenade offers an easy, scenic walk along the water. The views stretch from Alcatraz to Marin. In addition, the restored tidal marsh and dunes provide a peaceful habitat for shorebirds and other wildlife. The park connects to the Presidio Promenade Trail, which offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and a field lab to learn about community science initiatives.

Part of Crissy Field's charm also lies in its balance between urban and natural. It's just minutes from downtown yet feels open and tranquil, with ocean breezes and the scent of salt in the air. Nearby cafés and the Warming Hut —a store and community hub — offer cozy stops for coffee or a snack.

Visitors are drawn to Sacramento for its rich history, thriving farm-to-table food scene, riverside recreation, and relaxed atmosphere. A stroll through Capitol Park captures all of that charm in one place. Capitol Park is one of Sacramento's top attractions, offering a lush oasis in the heart of California's capital city.

Surrounding the stately California State Capitol is a 40-acre urban park — a living museum of trees, flowers, and sculptures. Its beautifully landscaped gardens showcase hundreds of native and exotic plant species. Visitors love the aromatic World Peace Rose Garden, which offers benches to relax and enjoy the Victorian-style garden with hundreds upon hundreds of blooms. The newest addition to the park's significant collection of memorials also stands out, an 8-foot-tall bronze statue of Miwok leader William J. Franklin Sr., a symbol of enduring local Indigenous leadership.

Visitors can easily pair a walk through the park with a tour of the adjacent Capitol Museum. They can explore the grand architecture and historic chambers of the Capitol building. For many, it's the perfect way to experience the spirit of Sacramento.

In the late 18th century, San Jose became the first nonmilitary and nonmissionary settlement in California, and soon after, this church was built at its center in 1803. Remarkably, since then, the church has been rebuilt five times because of fires and natural disasters. Today, it's still standing as a state and national historic landmark, and an homage to the care of its community. Worlds away from the techie reputation the city is widely known for, visitors come to enjoy a blend of exquisite Spanish-inspired architecture and artistry rarely matched in the region.

Visitors highlight the basilica's soaring dome, with one visitor noting on Tripadvisor, "The inside of the Basilica is breathtaking. The architecture is stunning." About 39 large hand-blown stained-glass windows with images of angels and saints, colorfully dissolve the light streaming in. Panels of wet fresco paintings adorn the interior of the dome. The church's organ is a rare, original Odell built in 1886, featuring 27 ranks of 60 pipes. Docent-led tours are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Services are held daily, and many of them are offered in Spanish on weekends.

Visitors describe Lava Beds National Monument as otherworldly. One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor that it's "an endless array of eerie formations." The park is a haunting place where visitors can literally walk through the remnants of ancient lava flows and explore a landscape formed by molten rock thousands of years ago, making it one of the spookiest caves to visit in North America. Exploring these lava tubes offers an adventure for thrill-seekers of various levels of experience. Some caves, such as Mushpot Cave, are an easy walk in the park, whereas Catacombs and Labyrinth may require a flashlight, kneepads, and a helmet, all of which you can purchase at the visitor's center.

Beyond the caves, travelers love the dramatic high-desert scenery and peaceful solitude that is so emblematic of Northern California's rugged geography. The park's expansive views, wildflower-dotted trails, and star-filled night skies make it a favorite for hikers and photographers. Reviewers also praise the well-maintained visitor center, friendly park rangers, and educational exhibits that bring the region's volcanic geology and the history of the Modoc people to life. "Great fun exploring the caves and learning the history of the Modoc Indians. All the caves are self-guided ranging from easy (no stooping) to Moderate to Difficult (some crawling). Bring good shoes and extra lights, although the Visitor Center has free lights available," wrote one visitor on Tripadvisor. Camping sites are available, but reservations must be made well in advance. 

Yosemite National Park holds a special place in the American imagination. It's no wonder visitors from around the world make pilgrimages to this breathtaking reserve in search of a connection with nature. Reviewers consistently describe Yosemite, located in the western region of the Sierra Nevada, as awe-inspiring. As one person wrote on Tripadvisor, "NO DOUBT that it's one of the best national parks in US and it has always been awe inspiring, jaw-dropping, and amazing experience."

There are seemingly endless outdoor activities to do at the park. Of course, there's hiking with dozens upon dozens of scenic views. Glacier Point is especially iconic, but also don't miss Tuolumne Meadows. There's also rafting, swimming, paddling, and rock climbing. In fact, many people say that this park is the birthplace of rock climbing as a sport. 

While it may be a bit of a drive to get there from most major cities, it's worth it for the views. You can even spot deer, bears, and eagles in their natural habitats. For countless travelers, Yosemite isn't just one of Northern California's top attractions; it's a place that captures the very essence of the great outdoors. Visitors must make reservations in advance, and it's important to plan your trip according to the season. 

To create a well-rounded list of top attractions in Northern California, we combined data from multiple sources. We began by consulting rankings and travel guides from U.S. News & World Report, Tripadvisor, and Google Reviews to identify consistently highly-rated destinations and activities across the region. These sources provided a mix of expert recommendations and visitor feedback.

Because Northern California encompasses several major cities — San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose — many of the highest-rated attractions are naturally clustered within or around these urban centers. To create a more balanced representation of what the region has to offer, we cast a wider net. This involved researching the most popular towns and rural areas across the northern half of the state. Once these locations were identified, we reviewed the top-rated attractions within that subset. This approach ensured the list reflects both iconic urban landmarks and must-see destinations that equally reflect Northern California's natural beauty and cultural depth.