Most of us have probably heard of the word ‘Eureka’ and associate it with having a great solution to a very difficult problem. But do you know that Eureka is also the name of a small city located in California, USA? Situated along the beautiful shores of Humboldt Bay, Eureka is regarded as a state historic landmark. It is filled with hundreds of old Victorian homes that hark back to a forgotten era and you will also be able to find some traces of a thriving lumber industry during Eureka’s formative years. A mix of nature, culture and urban elements truly make for a captivating coastal city that will surely leave a lasting impression on you. It might not look like it, but there are a lot of things to do here in Eureka, California. If you are going to be spending a few days here, take a look at our list of places to visit and activities to enjoy below.
1. Explore Old Town
Culture does not get any more vibrant when you visit the Old Town district of Eureka. Filled with meticulously preserved Victorian architecture and other historic buildings, you might feel that you may have stepped back in time! The area is also often shrouded in fog adding only to its everlasting charm. Instagram lovers will definitely enjoy taking photos here, as there are plenty of vintage pubs, cafes, restaurants, and antique shops to browse through. We suggest taking a relaxing day to explore this district fully.
Old Town
Address: California-Roughly, 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Streets, between B and M Streets
Website: Old Town
2. Take a detour through the scenic Redwood Highway
If you have rented a car and have a day to spare, we recommend taking a drive on the Redwood Highway, which is often regarded as Northern California’s most scenic drive. This 175 mile-long (approximately 280 km) highway takes you through a large and continuous redwood forest that never seems to end. Take the time to slow down and try to spot some of the wildlife hiding among the trees. Who knows, you might be able to spot an elk. You should also stop by Chandelier Tree, its trunk is big enough for you to drive your car through.
Redwood Highway
Address: Eureka, CA, USA
3. Appreciate works of art at Morris Graves Museum of Art
Aspiring artists and art enthusiasts should feel right at home at the Morris Graves Museum of Art. Owned by the Humboldt Arts Council, the museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the arts and heritage of the community. Exhibitions are regularly held, and they often feature the works of local and international artists. There are also permanent works on display, such as those from the patron artist Morris Graves. Art-related events and family activities are often organized for the community, so do ask the staff for more information if you are interested.
Morris Graves Museum of Art
Address: 636 F Street, Eureka, CA 95501
Website: Morris Graves Museum of Art
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: From 2 USD
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4. Enjoy a fun-filled day with family at Sequoia Park Forest & Garden
Located next to the Sequoia Park Zoo, the Sequoia Park Forest & Garden is a great family-friendly place where both parents and children can have an enjoyable day out in the sun. There are plenty of walking and cycling paths that traverse through a redwood forest and two small creeks. Children can entertain themselves in two huge playground areas, while adults can indulge in some wine and cheese in the lush, open group picnic areas. Do also visit the garden portion of the facility, where you will be able to see a colorful collection of dahlias and other blooming flowers maintained by dedicated volunteers.
Sequoia Park Forest & Garden
Address: 3414 W St, Eureka, CA 95503, USA
Website: Sequoia Park Forest & Garden
5. Go on an adventurous hike through Headwaters Forest Reserve
Put on your hiking gear and boots and get ready for an adventurous hike through the lush greenery of Headwaters Forest Reserve. This massive reserve was established in 1999 to protect and preserve one of the world’s last redwood forest ecosystems. There are two trails from which you can choose from, one of which is the Elk River Trail and the other, the Salmon Pass Trail which is accessible only by a guided tour. Both trails will take you through the dense redwood forest and you might be able to spot some of the wildlife that roam about freely, such as the northern spotted owl and the coho salmon.
Headwaters Forest Reserve
Address: Palco Road 1, Fortuna, CA 95540, USA
Website: Headwaters Forest Reserve
6. Bring your kids to Sequoia Park Zoo
Housing over 200 animals and birds and insects of about 54 different unique species, the Sequoia Park Zoo is the perfect place for the whole family to bond together while learning more about animal diversity. Children will fawn over the adorable red pandas in their enclosure, and if they’re lucky, they might get to see one of them walking in front of the viewing window. If you are not scared of reptiles or insects, you can visit the Secrets of the Forest exhibition and see some of these fascinating creatures up close. There is also a ‘flight-free’ zone where local and exotic birds reside.
Sequoia Park Zoo
Address: 3414 W St, Eureka, CA 95503, USA
Website: Sequoia Park Zoo
Opening hours: (Summer Hours) Mon: 12pm - 4pm; Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm; (Winter Hours) 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: From 6 USD
7. Walk around beautiful flower fields at Humboldt Botanical Garden
Are you in need of a relaxing stroll or perhaps need to work on your photography skills? We suggest making a stop at Humboldt Botanical Garden, where there are plenty of beautiful gardens to admire. Organized by a small group of volunteers in 1991, this botanical garden was set up to create an educational and world-class garden ground for the community. Explore a simple rose garden or get yourself lost in a temperate woodland garden. Be sure to take plenty of pictures while you’re at it.
Humboldt Botanical Garden
Address: 7707 Tompkins Hill Rd, Eureka, CA 95503, USA
Website: Humboldt Botanical Garden
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
8. Appreciate custom woodwork at Blue Ox Millworks Historic Park
Those who appreciate the art of wood craftsmanship should pay a visit to the vintage Blue Ox Millworks Historic Park. Owned by Eureka native Eric Hollenbeck, the Blue Ox has had a long history of producing authentic and customized millworks for private homes and commercial buildings throughout the country. Their clientele ranges from the homeowners, governors and even public parks. Perhaps the most distinguished honor of Blue Ox was serving ex-president Bill Clinton. Come take a tour of the facilities where you will be able to see old machinery and studios, as well as hear plenty of stories about the history of the place.
Blue Ox Millworks Historic Park
Address: 1 X St, Eureka, CA 95501, USA
Website: Blue Ox Millworks Historic Park
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
9. Gain an insight into the North Coast history at Clarke Historical Museum
You might have come across the Clarke Historical Museum while walking about in Old Town Eureka. If you have not peered inside the museum yet, we recommend you do so to gain a better understanding of the history of the North Coast. Founded by a local high school teacher, the museum features an extensive collection of Native American artifacts and other objects that date back to the early settlement days of the region. There are also exhibitions where visitors can get a glimpse of old decorated Victorian homes and see how these group of individuals lived in the past.
Clarke Historical Museum
Address: 240 E St, Eureka, CA 95501, USA
Website: Clarke Historical Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 11am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
10. Learn more about Gold Rush at Fort Humboldt State Historic Park
Fort Humboldt State Historic Park may not look like much in modern times, but it was an important landmark back in the late 1800s. It was originally constructed as a military post to resolve conflicts between the Native Americans and gold-seekers who were looking to farm gold at the northern mines. Later, it was used as a base headquarters for the Humboldt Military District during the American Civil War. The fort was quickly abandoned after the Civil War and all that remains today is the sole hospital building. It has now been converted into a museum that preserves the story of this historic fort. You are free to go on self-guided tours within the area.
Fort Humboldt State Historic Park
Address: 3431 Fort Ave, Eureka, CA 95503, USA
Website: Fort Humboldt State Historic Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
11. Watch a theatrical play at North Coast Repertory Theatre
Established in 1983, the North Coast Repertory Theatre is Eureka’s longest-running theatre and produces up to six main stage productions per year. Besides these, you can also watch second-stage performances like concerts, comedy shows, and poetry readings. If you are a fan of Shakespeare’s works, this is the place to see his famous literature come to life. Be sure to check out their schedule on their official website if you plan on catching a show.
North Coast Repertory Theatre
Address: 300 5th St, Eureka, CA 95501, USA
Website: North Coast Repertory Theatre
12. Visit Berta's Ranch Covered Bridge for amazing photos for the 'gram
There are several noteworthy bridges in Eureka, but only two of these bridges are wooden. If you head out to Elk River Road, you should come across Berta’s Ranch Covered Bridge. Nestled among cow-filled pastures, the bridge is well known among locals and photographers for its scenic location. Here’s a fun fact for you - the bridge is not visible during the rainy season as it is often under the water then. Grab some nice photos for your Instagram account if you happen to past by.
Berta's Ranch Covered Bridge
Address: Berta Road, Eureka, CA
13. Marvel at the stunning architecture of Carson Mansion
From afar, you might have noticed this grand and massive Victorian building and wondered if the great Walt Disney had built a forgotten castle in Eureka. This is Carson Mansion, the original home of one of the first lumber barons William Carson. Unfortunately, the mansion is a members-only club and its grounds are not open to the public. You may, however, stop outside the grounds and snap as many photos as you like of the place.
Carson Mansion
Address: 143 M St, Eureka, CA 95501, USA
Website: Carson Mansion
14. Enjoy a spectacular scenic drive along Lost Coast Trail
The Lost Coast Trail isn’t exactly ‘lost’, but those who are familiar with the path will know that it always vanishes under a cloud of marine fog twice a day. The trail, which is located on the coast of the King Range National Conservation Area, can be accessed via car. But once here, you will have to travel the rest of the path via foot. The adventurous can plan a backpacking hike but will need to be adequately equipped as the terrain can be unforgiving. The reward, though, is worth it as you will get to see undisturbed scenery and have a sense of accomplishment when you get to the end of the trail.
Lost Coast Trail
Address: Eureka, CA
15. Enjoy the river breeze as you stroll along Hikshari Trail
You might have noticed by now that Eureka is full of scenic hiking trails, and this is another one that we will most definitely add to the list. If you are just looking for a casual stroll, the waterfront Hikshari Trail should be right up your alley. Located in South Eureka’s Elk River access area, you can choose to walk, rollerblade, or cycle along the trail while enjoying the views of the marshes and wildlife that roam the area. The trail becomes even prettier during sunsets and is also more romantic if you are with your significant other.
Hikshari Trail
Address: 2060 Truesdale St, Eureka, CA 95503-3837
16. Indulge in a sumptuous treat at Cafe Waterfront
No one ever says no to delicious comfort food, and the grub at Cafe Waterfront will not disappoint you. As its name suggests, this quaint and cozy cafe is located near the Eureka boardwalk in Old Town Eureka. Known for being a reputable oyster bar and grill, seafood lovers should feel right at home here. They have a huge selection of specialties in their breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus so there is always something to choose. According to regulars, you should try their clam chowder, spicy seafood stew, fried clams, and chips dish.
Cafe Waterfront
Address: 102 F St, Eureka, CA 95501, USA
Website: Cafe Waterfront
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm, 5pm - 9pm (daily)
Price: 11 - 30 USD
17. Have a drink or two at The Speakeasy
When night falls in the Old Town district of Eureka, one of the places you can go to enjoy is the intimate The Speakeasy bar, located in Opera Alley. If you love jazz, then you will be pumped to know that a jazz band usually plays on most nights. The drink menu is extensive so do take your time to order your drink, but we recommend trying their cocktail range. As the place is rather small, it can get packed to the brim pretty quickly. We suggest getting there early to grab a seat and to avoid disappointment!
The Speakeasy
Address: 411 Opera Alley, Eureka, CA 95501, USA
Website: The Speakeasy
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 2am (closed on Sun)
Price: 11 - 30 USD
18. Take photos of a gorgeous sunset or sunrise at Eureka Boardwalk
Need a great sunset or sunrise photograph to commemorate your visit to Eureka? There’s no better place than the waterfront Eureka Boardwalk in the Old Town district. This place is popular among locals and tourists as it has amazing views of Humboldt Bay. You will find all sorts of people here, from carefree pedestrians to aspiring artists painting a beautiful skyline on their canvas. You may also find anglers here looking to catch a few fish too. Enjoy the breeze as you walk along this beautiful stretch.
Eureka Boardwalk
Address: 100 F Street, Eureka
Adventure awaits you in Eureka
A mix of modernity, vintage elements and scenic wonders best describes Eureka. A solo traveler, a couple or a family can enjoy a wholesome time in this unique city. Even if you’re just spending a day here, we’re sure that you will be bringing back something memorable with you.
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