These are the 10 most walkable cities in California, ranked
Are you heading to sunny California for a well-deserved getaway? California is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and cultural epicentres in the United States. While Los Angeles might be the crown jewel of the Golden State, there are several other cities in the state that may be more convenient if you plan to visit – especially if you want to maximize your time exploring. Ditch LA’s 24-hour traffic this time and opt for one of the many California cities you can explore on foot. Check out this ultimate list of the most walkable cities in California, ranked by their walkable score.
A “walk score” is a way of measuring a city’s walkability, based on how far it is from amenities, food, shopping, entertainment, and everything else you would need for fun. daily. When a city has a high walk score, it means it is an optimal place to live and explore on foot. With California’s beautiful natural surroundings, there’s plenty to do outdoors, from hiking trails to surf beaches, botanical gardens and vineyards. Since you won’t have to spend your vacation money on gas or expensive taxis, you can use it for a special meal or a once-in-a-lifetime experience like a hot air balloon ride or crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, which is one of seven wonders of the world.
Spend time along the Pacific Coast and discover these hidden California gems. You can embrace the slow-living, bohemian vibe the state is experiencing in these outdoors-focused towns and neighborhoods. This way, you won’t have to worry about finding fun things to do because, based on real research, everything you need is guaranteed to be just a few steps away.
Santa Cruz is considered California’s most walkable city, with a walkable score of 93 that classifies it as a “walker’s paradise,” meaning you won’t need to take a walk between activities . Hit the boardwalk to enjoy the seaside amusement park, stand among the towering trees of Redwoods State Park, or cool off and stroll through the Museum of Art and History de Santa Cruz and the Surfing Museum.
Sonoma is known for its slow, long-lasting vibe, and of course, its delicious wine. Located along the Pacific coast in the middle of the mountains, the Sonoma vineyards are a must, especially for a wine tasting or a scenic drive. Nicknamed “The Valley of the Moon” (and rated “Walker’s Paradise” at 93), you can also take a hot air balloon ride over the Mayacoma mountain range, hit a nearby beach, or explore downtown. town on foot for shopping, visiting historical sites. sights and local food.
Although driving in Los Angeles is the usual form of transportation, areas like West Hollywood are walkable enough for a busy weekend. It has a walk score of 91, so you have plenty of options. Shop ’til you drop on the upscale Sunset Strip, take an Instagram on the iconic ‘Pink Wall’ of Melrose Avenue, learn about Old Hollywood history at Chateau Marmont, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and the LGBTQT music scene.
“Golden Gate City” is an ideal destination for a seaside metropolitan vibe. With breezy hills and walkable neighborhoods, including attractions like the “Painted Ladies” park as seen in Full house, botanical gardens and peaceful walks through the labyrinths of Grace Cathedral, San Francisco has plenty to explore without the need for a car. You can visit North Beach’s Little Italy for a delicious pasta dinner, try the famous sourdough bread at Fisherman’s Wharf, or even cross the Golden Gate Bridge for a scenic afternoon.
Home to one of the most scenic college campuses in the country, Berkeley is the perfect place to live laid back and soak up the sun like a Californian. It has a walk score of 85 for its outdoor attractions like the 34-acre Berkeley Botanical Garden, the marina — where you can kayak or explore one of the nearby hiking trails — and Telegraph Avenue, which is perfect for shopping and grabbing a bite to eat while enjoying Berkeley’s vintage bohemian vibe.
Santa Monica is an ideal beach destination with a ton of activities you can enjoy on foot, with a “very walkable” walk score of 83. A visit to Santa Monica State Beach is a must if you’re in the mood for sand and beach. surfing, but you can also stroll along the famous pier, shop on the Third Street Promenade or relax in Palisades Park for stunning views of the northern California coast.
Known as ‘The Heart of Screenland’, movie buffs will delight in exploring Culver City’s cinematic history on the movie grounds where iconic movies such as ‘The Wizard of Oz’, ‘Gone with the Wind’ , “Grease” and “Tarzan” were filmed. Culver City, rated at 79, is also known for its aviation history and museums, laid-back beaches, and hiking trails to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, where you can take in views of the Pacific Ocean and the Los Angeles Basin.
Just five minutes across the bay from San Francisco, Oakland enjoys a warmer climate and a diverse culture. It’s mostly walkable, rated at 75, with a variety of ethnic cuisines to sample (including street food you can grab on the go), and a lively jazz and music scene with festivals and parties. outdoor concerts. You can also relax at Lake Merrit, where you can rent kayaks and canoes at the park and enjoy the wildlife preserve.