Attractions
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Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary and Interpretive Center
Enjoy bird watching, walking and jogging trails, bay views and vistas of Arcata and foothills. This nationally recognized habitat encompasses 75 acres of former landfill; now the series of marshes naturally treat Arcata's wastewater before it is released into Humboldt Bay. Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center located at 600 G Street is open Monday's 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. and Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00-5:00 p.m. The Marsh is open from 4:00 a.m. until one hour past sunset.
Arcata Community Forest and Redwood Park
Our 575-acre forest, complete with majestic redwood trees, is located within our city limits just a 2 minute drive from downtown Arcata. The forest features nearly 10 miles of trails for hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders. A picnic and playground area offers beautiful views of the park, and a large grassy area is the setting for many outdoor events. Camping is prohibited in both the park and forest. Access from east 11th Street or east 14th Street.
Arcata Plaza
The site of numerous community events, the Plaza is centrally located in Arcata's downtown district. Surrounded by shops, restaurants and historic buildings, the Plaza is a unique place to enjoy a bite to eat or browsing in the many shops and bookstores. Flower beds and park benches offer respite from a harried day. The William McKinley statue, a gift from a city father, and palm trees date back to 1906.
Farmer's Market
The North Coast Growers Association sponsors a very popular farmer's market from the end of April through November at the Arcata Plaza and June - October for all other locations. The market is available at the Arcata Plaza on Saturday's from 9:00-2:00 p.m., Old Town Eureka on Tuesday's from 10:00-1:00 p.m., Henderson Center from 10:00 - 1:00 p.m., Across from the Co-op in Arcata on Tuesday's from 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. and the McKinleyville Shopping Center on Thursdays from 3:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Arcata Ballpark - Humboldt Crabs Baseball
Located at 9th and F Streets, Arcata Ballpark is home to the Humboldt Crabs, Arcata's semi-pro baseball team. Since 1944 the Crabs have racked up an impressive record. Their summer season runs from June through July. You can take in a game or two while you stay.
Arcata Bottoms
Vistas of grassy pasturelands, picturesque farms, and quiet country roads characterize the serenity of the Bottoms-a perfect place for walking, jogging or bicycling. Just west of town and bordered by Humboldt Bay and the Lanphere-Christensen Dunes Preserve.
Art Galleries and Exhibits
Displaying artwork for viewing are the The Humboldt State University campus galleries - Foyer Gallery and Reese Bullen Gallery at the Arts Complex, 826-5818, and HSU Student Access Gallery at the Warren House, 826-4149; the Humboldt Arts Council Storefront Gallery on the Plaza near 8th and G Streets, 442-0278; and Plaza Design, 830 G Street, 822-7732. Many restaurants, businesses and government offices also provide alternative space for display artwork by local artists.
Historic Landmarks
Designated historic landmarks include: Hotel Arcata, 9th and G Streets, built in 1915, now features a full service hotel and retail shops; Jacoby's Storehouse, 8th and H Streets, built in 1857, now houses numerous restaurants, shops, and offices; the Minor Theatre, 10th and H Streets, built in 1914, is currently operating three movie theaters where current, classic and artistic films are shown. All of these structures have undergone restoration in recent years and feature quality workmanship in the exterior and interior of the buildings.
Humboldt State University
Established in 1913 and the northern-most campus of the California State University system, HSU has recently received recognition of its education value in many national publications. The campus offers some of the most scenic views of Arcata and the Bay. HSU attractions include many outstanding cultural events, art exhibits, sports events and a library with excellent local historical resources.
Humboldt State University Natural History Museum
Located near downtown, this unique museum provides an extensive fossil collection and exhibits of California fauna and flora. Interesting for all ages. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. 4:00 p.m., 13th and G Streets.
Phillip's House Museum
This historic house is one of the oldest structures in Arcata. The Historical Sites Society has created a tasteful interpretation of a mid-19th century residence in Arcata, complete with lace curtains, fine china, quilts and newspapers. Panoramic views of Humboldt Bay. Sundays, noon to 4 p.m., 7th and Union Streets.
Mad River Beach County Park
Miles of pristine beaches and dunes lead to the mouth of the Mad River, where harbor seals and sea lions rest and feed. Hidden at the end of picturesque Mad River Road located in the Arcata Bottoms.
Lanphere-Christensen Dunes Preserve
A unique example of dunes succession on the west coast. On the west side of Arcata, the undisturbed dunes reach height of over 80 feet. Due to an extremely fragile ecosystem, access is limited to guided tours only. For information, call 444-1397.
Railroad Museums
Located on the 1st floor of the Jacoby's Storehouse Building, the Arcata Railroad Museum preserves the memory of days when Arcata was supplied by rail and port. Railroad buffs may also enjoy the Blue Lake Museum at the old Arcata and Mad River Railroad Depot on Railroad Avenue in the town of Blue Lake.
Sequoia Zoo
A 54-acre park features redwoods, wildlife, petting zoo, playground, picnic area, walking trails and duck pond. Located at 3414 W Street in Eureka.
The historic Trinidad Harbor is still home to a fleet of commercial fishing boats and offers unparalleled views of our coastline. The HSU Marine Laboratory is located just up the hill. Trinidad State Beach is an easy access point for miles of scenic coastal trails, including Trinidad Head. Take Trinidad exit, 15 miles north of Arcata, off of Highway 101.
Redwood National Park
Less than an hour north of Arcata, Redwood National Park contains the world's tallest trees - some over 350 feet high! Old growth redwood trees that are 800 to 1500 years old can also be found throughout this park which encompasses 106,000 acres. A Visitors Center is located just south of Orick on Highway 101.
Prairie Creek State Park
Take an adventurous trip to stunning Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach along 8 miles of narrow, bumpy gravel road or a 4.5 walk through an ancient forest. See numerous herds of Roosevelt elk throughout the 14,000 acres of park land. 46 miles north of Arcata.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park and "Avenue of the Giants"
Showcases over 51,000 acres of the most impressive redwoods in the world. More than 100 miles of hiking trails, fishing along the Eel River, horseback riding , mountain biking, and swimming. Located one hour south of Arcata on Highway 101 at Weott.
For a complete listing of event information for the area, call 800-346-3482 to request a free copy of the Visitor's Guide for Humboldt County.
