Arcata’s lovely downtown, expansive forests, and laid back style is sure to put a smile on anyone's face
Across the northern stretch of Humboldt Bay from Eureka, the colorful buildings of Arcata are clearly visible. The two cities are only minutes apart by highway, but are distinct in character. Originally named Union, Arcata's beginnings go back to the Gold Rush when she was a shipping and supply center for the miners on the Trinity River.
The docks are long gone, but Arcata retains (and celebrates) a sense of her uniqueness. Sprawling over the hillside above Arcata, Cal Poly Humboldt dominates the city and promotes a youthful, artistic and intellectual ambiance.
The Plaza, with its lawns and flowers, is the social and commercial center of Arcata. Delightful shops offering locally handcrafted merchandise, sports equipment, (kayaks, bikes, etc.) boutiques and restaurants line the Plaza. Arcata being a college town, the local bookstores and coffee houses are especially interesting.
Events: The Plaza is also the venue for numerous events including, the Kinetic Sculpture Race Starting Point (Memorial Day Weekend), the famous Oyster Festival (June), Pastels on the Plaza (October), Saturday farmers market on the plaza (seasonal) and the North Country Fair (September). Of particular note is the beautifully restored Jacoby's Storehouse, a California Historic Landmark.
The town also contains many restored Victorian homes. Visit the Historical Sites Society of Arcata for a more in depth look at the history and architecture of Arcata or download a self guided walking tour here.
The Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary (Access through South G and I Streets), offers quiet trails and superb birdwatching. This world-famous Marsh gives a unique view of an efficient, low-tech wastewater reclamation system as well as acres of mixed wildlife habitat.
OR: Take a walk on the beach: Lanphere Dunes Preserve & Mad River Beach County Park, Humboldt Coastal Nature Center, Miles of beaches and dunes leading to the mouth of Mad River. Bike or hike the 2350 acre Arcata Community Forest and Redwood Park with majestic redwood trees, located within city limits. Trail map available also at the Arcata Chamber of Commerce.
NEARBY:
MCKINLEYVILLE:
* Hike or bike the Hammond Trail
* Walk on the beach or hike/skate on a nearby paved trail at Clam Beach
* View the world's tallest Totem pole located in the Safeway parking lot off of Central Ave.
BLUE LAKE:
* Stop in at the Blue Lake Casino (gaming, music, buffet lunch & dinner) with its new hotel.
* Be entertained by many of the year-round productions brought to you by Dell'Arte International 707-668-5663.
Arcata is also the proud home of the Humboldt Crabs semi-pro baseball team.
Games are held in June & July; call 707-826-2333.
Visit our Lodging section for places to stay in Arcata, McKinleyville and Blue Lake
