In the late 19th century, California’s distinctive style of Victorian architecture flourished during the Gold Rush and later population booms. In cities like San Francisco, Victorian homes continue to be an enduring symbol of prosperity and individuality, but you can also still see thousands of original structures like this all throughout small towns in California.
California Victorian architecture is renowned for its ornate details, vibrant color schemes, and eclectic influences. A mix of Gothic Revival, Italianate, Eastlake, and Queen Anne styles has overlapped across decades to leave an exuberant mark on the state’s most historic neighborhoods. Common features include steep gabled roofs, decorated “gingerbread” trim, tall windows, turrets, and intricate woodwork.
Here are some of the most beautiful Victorian towns in Northern California where you can see these 19th-century styles preserved in time.
Grass Valley
Grass Valley’s downtown is lined with Victorian storefronts, charming homes, and the historic Holbrooke Hotel. As one of the richest gold mining towns in the state, the scenic town on Highway 49 attracted a diverse population of fortune seekers with Italian, Cornish, Chinese, Jewish, Native American, and African American heritage. Consider visiting Empire Mine Historic State Park to see one of the state’s oldest and richest gold mines, or catch a movie at the 19th-century Del Oro Theatre.
Ferndale
This coastal town in NorCal is famous for its authentic small-town atmosphere and exceptional Victorian architecture. Its origins as a dairy hub led to the construction of “Butterfat Palaces,” a collection of Victorian homes and businesses funded by the town’s dairy wealth. The Main Street Historic District comprises 39 buildings over 46 acres, including the 1875 Ivanhoe Hotel, the Palace Saloon, and the Masonic Temple.
Eureka
Just north of Ferndale, Eureka is home to one of the county’s highest concentrations of Victorian buildings. There are over 150 historic structures centered around the Old Town Eureka Historic District, showcasing styles including Queen Anne, Italianate, Stick, and Greek Revival. The 1886 Carson Mansion is Eureka’s crown jewel, widely regarded as one of the country’s most iconic examples of Queen Anne architecture.
While you’re in Eureka, don’t forget to seek out the epic Redwood Sky Walk, a stunning pathway suspended in a redwood canopy 100 feet off the ground.
Nevada City
Nevada City is home to one of NorCal’s most complete collections of Gold Rush-era commercial buildings, with 70 or so structures dating between 1856 and 1917. In the ’60s and ’70s, locals managed to save many of the historic buildings by lobbying to enact historic preservation ordinances. Thanks to their efforts, we can still enjoy the Nevada Theatre, which is California’s oldest existing theater building, and historic homes like the 1888 Rector House and the 1873 Martin Luther Marsh House. If visiting in the winter, consider timing your visit with Nevada City’s charming Victorian Christmas celebration.
Murphys
This small town in Calaveras County, nicknamed the “Queen of the Sierra,” was founded as a mining camp in 1848. The area produced an estimated $20 million in gold, which funded much of Main Street’s exquisite architecture. After several devastating fires in the latter half of the 19th century, Murphys’ cityscape incorporated more permanent stone and brick structures. Look for the Traver Building, the 1856 Murphys Hotel, and dozens of charming Victorian homes.