Northern California is a diverse place. The life someone lives in Redding might look different than someone who lives in San Jose, and a person living in Pollock Pines might have a different experience of California than someone living in, say, Turlock. But no matter where you live in NorCal, we bet nearly everyone can relate to some common experiences. Keep reading to find out if you have strong roots in Northern California. And if you want to represent your home state, check out the Wear Your Roots apparel.
We are so lucky to live within a short drive from one of the most famous wine regions in the world. From Healdsburg to Calistoga to Yountville, and all the places in between– there are what seems like an endless number of wineries to explore. And if you’re not a wine drinker, the Napa Valley area has many luxurious spas where you can unwind and get pampered.
2. Experiencing the views from the Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Brg, San Francisco, CA, USA
From the Golden Gate Bridge you can see the beautiful and rough waves of the Pacific Ocean, as well as the San Francisco Bay. This is also an ideal spot to view San Francisco. If you’ve never biked over the Golden Gate Bridge, put that on your must-do list! It’s an incredible way to experience this spectacular view. You can sometimes even spot dolphins jumping in the water below. Even if you’ve never biked the bridge, chances are you’ve driven over it. This experience never gets old!
Advertisement
3. Rooting for the San Francisco Giants in Oracle Park
Oracle Park, 24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA
At some point, many Northern Californians have watched their favorite team play in Oracle Park. For longtime residents, we remember watching them play in Candlestick Park. Northern Californians with roots know to bring their warmest coat, especially for night games, since it gets very cold. And buy a hot drink at the stadium (coffee and whiskey, anyone?).
Many NorCal natives love snow sports. One of the most popular areas for skiing and snowboarding is Truckee. With several world-class resorts, plus a historic town to explore, visiting Truckee is on many people’s winter to-do list.
People with roots in NorCal know the rodeo is a big deal here. And no matter where you live in this great state, you probably live close to a major rodeo. From the Red Bluff Round-Up to California Rodeo Salinas to the Oakdale Rodeo-- NorCal residents love their rodeos.
6. Being in absolute awe while exploring Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA
No matter how many times you see Muir Woods, it never gets old. The trees in this old growth coastal redwood forest are more than 200 feet tall. If you want to see even taller trees, drive a couple hours north to the vast Redwood National and State Parks to see redwoods towering more than 300 feet.
7. Winning big (or just having fun) at one of the many casinos in NorCal
Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort, 12222 New York Ranch Rd, Jackson, CA 95642, USA
There's no need to hop a flight to Las Vegas when there are so many casinos in this state. There are more than 30 casinos in Northern California. NorCal natives enjoy a day or weekend at a casino. Even if you don't gamble, the buffets are usually top-notch.
