California has 3 of most charming downtowns in the nation, HGTV says. Which ones?
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- HGTV named three California towns among the nation's most charming downtowns.
- Pacific Grove, Solvang, and Carmel-by-the-Sea earned praise for unique culture.
- Architectural heritage, art galleries, and boutique shops anchor visitor appeal.
California is home to three of the most charming small downtowns in the country, according to HGTV.
The cable network went in search of “vibrant towns that invite you in and encourage you to stay and explore,” singling out 40 small towns across the United States.
“Nothing charms like a small downtown that beckons visitors with historic architecture and boutique shops or local culture and tree-lined streets,” HGTV contributors Erin Gifford and Lynn Coulter wrote in a Sept. 17 article.
Here’s which Golden State destinations landed on HGTV’s list:
Why is Pacific Grove’s downtown one of best in US?
Pacific Grove, located in Monterey County, was the highest ranking California town on HGTV’s list due to its panoramic ocean views and enchanting downtown.
Known as “America’s Last Hometown,” the idyllic coastal destination boast as “classic Main Street-vibe with Victorian-style homes, quaint inns and family-owned shops and boutiques,” HGTV said.
People can wander through the 15,000-person town glimpsing “endless views” of the Pacific Ocean and sandy beaches, according to HGTV.
The tiny town was once home to “East of Eden” author John Steinbeck.
It’s also the site of one of the first natural history museums in the country — the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, open to visitors five days a week.
Why is Carmel-by-the-Sea’s quaint downtown worth visiting?
Visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea can wander through renowned art galleries and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants.
The coastal California village’s delightful downtown holds hidden courtyards and secret gardens where you can stroll through the former creative haunts of novelist Jack London and poet George Sterling, according to HGTV.
Travelers may want to wait a few months to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea when its charm is at full blast amid Christmastime.
“During the holidays, this storybook town becomes even more merry and magical with twinkling lights and whimsical window displays,” HGTV said.
Why is Danish town ranked most charming in the US?
HGTV also showcased Solvang, a town in Santa Barbara County that was established by Danish immigrants in 1911.
Downtown Solvang is dotted with half-timbered structures with thatched roofs and “charismatic” windmills, HGTV said.
The Santa Ynez Valley, where Solvang resides, is also popular for its wide variety of wines.
More than 120 wineries are situated in the valley, according to the cable network.
However, the main draw of the 6,000-person village is its European roots, HGTV said, where famous Danes including Hans Christian Anderson are showcased in spots all around town.
This story was originally published September 28, 2025 at 9:00 AM.
