What to do in Eureka, California? Your Attractions Guide in Eureka

Overview of Eureka, California

Eureka is a small coastal city located in Humboldt County, California. It is known for its historic Victorian architecture, stunning beaches, and redwood forests. Visitors can expect to find a charming and friendly community with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Places to Visit

The Lost Coast Trail

The Lost Coast Trail is an absolute must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. This 25-mile hike through stunning scenery and diverse terrain offers picturesque views of mountains, forests, and beaches. This is an excellent place to camp and experience the rugged and untamed beauty of Northern California.

Sequoia Park Zoo

Sequoia Park Zoo is a beloved attraction by both locals and tourists. This beautifully landscaped and well-maintained zoo features a wide variety of species and interactive exhibits. This is an ideal activity for families with small children.

Old Town Eureka

Old Town Eureka is the heart of the city and the perfect place to experience its rich history and architecture. Visitors will find a plethora of restaurants, shops, and art galleries to explore. Take a stroll through the streets to admire the Victorian-era buildings and immerse yourself in the charm of the city.

Humboldt Bay

Be sure to take a scenic drive or bike ride around the Humboldt Bay. The bay spans over 100 square miles and is one of the largest natural bays in California. Visitors can expect to find stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and even catch a glimpse of fishermen in action.

Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks is a magnificent natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors must experience the magestic redwood trees; some of the tallest and oldest species on Earth. Additionally, this national park hosts diverse wildlife and miles of trails.

Lighthouses

Eureka has a rich maritime history and one of the best ways to experience it is by visiting its many historic lighthouses. Two of the most popular ones are the Cape Mendocino Lighthouse and the Trinidad Head Lighthouse. Both offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a glimpse into California’s past.

Jacoby Creek Forest

Jacoby Creek Forest is a lesser-known gem in Eureka. This beautiful and lush forest features multiple trails and scenic routes perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

The Carson Mansion

The Carson Mansion is an iconic Eureka landmark and one of the most famous Victorian houses in the country. This grand and imposing structure is owned by the Ingomar Club, which is a private club dedicated to preserving the city’s history and heritage. Visitors can admire the exterior during a guided tour of the city.

Beaches

Eureka and its neighboring cities are known for their stunning beaches. Theses include Trinidad State Beach, Patrick’s Point State Park, and others. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, picnicking, and even surfing in the right conditions.

Fern Canyon

A unique spot for travelers to explore. The magical Fern Canyon resides in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and one of the main reasons people visit. The canyon is a natural wonder and features sheer green walls that hide waterfalls and streams, creating a fairytale-like experience.

Places to Avoid

The Best Western Plus Bayshore Inn

An overpriced hotel with rundown rooms, a loud heating system, backed-up plumbing, and unhelpful staff. This hotel is not worth the price and guests are better off finding another hotel in the area.

Halvorsen Park

Halvorsen Park is a small, unsightly park with few amenities and low maintenance. Visitors may want to skip this attraction and opt for the many other parks and outdoor destinations found in and around Eureka.

Red Lion Hotel Eureka

This hotel is outdated and poorly maintained. The rooms are small, with uncomfortable beds, and the staff is unprofessional. There has been reported issues with noisy guests and poor cleanliness.

Bayshore Mall

The Bayshore Mall is a typical suburban mall with a poor selection of shops and restaurants. Most of the shops have closed, and traffic is minimal. Visitors may want to skip this destination and opt for local boutiques and outdoor markets instead.

ARCATA

Arcata, in the neighboring town, has recently had issues with homeless encampments and drug usage in some areas, so visitors may want to avoid wandering outside of the main streets.

Overview of Eureka