California Summer Downtowns
Associated Press Identifies California's Top Downtowns Perfect for Summer Travel
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World Atlas has named the 11 best downtowns to visit in California this summer, spotlighting historic small cities and coastal gems worth a road trip. World Atlas compiled the list with a focus on walkable streets, 19th-century architecture, and independent shops and restaurants.
The list spans the state from the wine country of Healdsburg to the sunny shores of Coronado. Towns like Ojai, Eureka, and Old Sacramento made the cut for their mix of charm, history, and things to do on foot.
Ojai and Coronado Lead the Pack
Ojai's downtown stands out on the list. The city rebuilt its main street in 1917 with a Spanish Colonial style after a fire destroyed the original. Today, the arcade-lined streets are filled with art galleries, spas, and farm-to-table restaurants, according to World Atlas.
Coronado, just across the bay from San Diego, draws visitors with its famous Hotel del Coronado. The hotel recently finished a major 6-year restoration. Wide sidewalks, boutique shops, and ocean views make the downtown easy to explore without a car, VC Star reported.
Wine Country and Gold Rush History Draw Crowds
Healdsburg, in Sonoma County wine country, made the list for its central plaza surrounded by tasting rooms and fine dining. Visitors can walk from wine bar to wine bar without ever moving their car. The town has a low-key, upscale feel that appeals to food and wine lovers, according to The Californian.
Old Sacramento earns its spot thanks to its Gold Rush roots. The district features wooden sidewalks, restored 1850s buildings, and the California State Railroad Museum. It is one of the largest preserved historic districts in the American West, Record Net noted.
Small Towns Offer Big Charm on a Budget
Eureka, on the rugged Northern California coast, made the list for its Victorian architecture and Old Town waterfront. The city has hundreds of ornate 19th-century buildings still standing. Local seafood restaurants and independent bookstores line the main drag, according to Siskiyou Daily News.
With gas prices climbing, travel analysts say more Californians are planning shorter drives to nearby downtowns rather than flying. That trend is good news for smaller cities on the list. A day trip to a walkable historic town costs far less than a flight, and many of these spots offer free parking on the edges of downtown, Yahoo Travel reported.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
World Atlas recommends visiting these downtowns on weekday mornings to avoid weekend crowds. Most of the 11 cities on the list are best explored on foot. Bring comfortable shoes and a reusable water bottle, especially if you plan to visit inland towns like Ojai, where summer temperatures can climb past 90°F, Desert Sun advised.
The full list of 11 downtowns gives travelers a ready-made road trip guide across the state. Whether you have one day or one week, California's historic main streets offer history, food, and scenery without the crowds of a major theme park or tourist resort, according to World Atlas.
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