California County Seats Map - CCCarto

California has several county seats that are both photogenic and tourist-friendly, featuring charming courthouses, historic clock towers, bandstands, and scenic parks with rivers and streams. Here are some notable ones:

1. Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara County)
• Courthouse: The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is renowned for its stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture and beautiful gardens. The clock tower offers panoramic views of the city.
• Parks and Rivers: Nearby parks like Alameda Park and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden provide scenic beauty. The city is close to the Santa Barbara Channel and various coastal attractions.

2. Sonoma (Sonoma County)
• Courthouse: The Sonoma County Courthouse is a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture. It has a historic charm and is surrounded by lovely gardens.
• Parks and Streams: The town is near Sonoma Plaza, a vibrant area with parks and local events. The nearby Sonoma Creek adds to the scenic appeal.

3. Grass Valley (Nevada County)
• Courthouse: The historic Nevada County Courthouse in Grass Valley is a picturesque building reflecting the gold rush era.
• Parks and Streams: The town features parks like Memorial Park and is close to the Bear River, offering natural beauty and outdoor activities.

4. Nevada City (Nevada County)
• Courthouse: The Nevada County Courthouse in Nevada City is another historic and photogenic building with a charming town square.
• Parks and Streams: The town has beautiful parks like the Nevada City Community Center and is near the Yuba River.

5. Paso Robles (San Luis Obispo County)
• Courthouse: The Paso Robles Courthouse is a historic building with beautiful architecture and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Parks and Rivers: The city is known for its parks and nearby scenic areas, including the Paso Robles City Park.

Population Size of Counties

• Largest County by Population: Los Angeles County is the largest by population, with over 10 million residents.
• Smallest County by Population: Alpine County is the smallest by population, with fewer than 2,000 residents.


These county seats and their surroundings offer a blend of historic charm and natural beauty, making them ideal for tourists seeking picturesque settings.