Travelers who choose Eureka as a destination can tailor their stay to different interests: redwood forests and trails, historic carriage rides, or architectural and local history. When looking for hotels in Eureka, it helps to first consider which of these themes will be a priority during your travel days.
Redwood Forest, Zoo, and Trails
Sequoia Park is a 60-acre park with hiking and biking trails through redwood forest and meadows, past a duck pond and two small streams. Paved trails suitable for wheelchairs and strollers extend for more than a mile. The main gate is open to vehicles Wednesday through Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you plan to drive in, check this information before your trip.
Sequoia Park Zoo offers a different focus: it is the oldest zoo in California and is home to more than 150 animals representing 50 species. The zoo is also home to the Redwood Sky Walk. At its highest point, it stands 100 feet above the forest floor and consists of just under a quarter mile of bridges and platforms. Access is included with zoo admission or a zoo membership; check the latest access information before your visit.
The Eureka Waterfront Trail offers the opportunity to cross the city from one end to the other on foot, by bike, or running. It is intended to become a continuous 6.3-mile trail once its individual construction phases are connected. Hiking, biking, and running are also possible on the Hikshari' Trail, as are paddling, picnicking, and birdwatching. These options differ from the choice of the Waterfront Trail, which is geared toward crossing the city.
Discover Architecture and History
The Carson Mansion was built between 1884 and 1886 for lumber baron William M. Carson by architects Newsom and Newsom. It combines the Italianate, Eastlake, Stick, and Queen Anne styles. This combination makes the house an interesting point of reference for anyone interested in different architectural movements. Fort Humboldt offers another historical point of reference: it was established in 1853 on a hill overlooking Humboldt Bay.
At Blue Ox Millworks, visitors can see antique machinery and Victorian buildings constructed on site as part of a tour. The M.V. Madaket, built in 1910, adds a passenger ship to the selection: it is the oldest passenger motor vessel in the United States still in continuous operation. The different themes thus range from architectural styles and local history to machinery and maritime travel.
Old Town Eureka can also be explored on a private carriage ride or a guided historic tour with Old Town Carriage Co. The rides begin at the corner of Second & F Streets by the gazebo in Old Town Eureka. As the provider's information may change, check it before your trip. The Eureka Welcome Center is one block from the water and offers restaurant recommendations, directions, information about local history, and tips on lesser-known places.
Discover more destinations: Fortuna, Blue Lake, Samoa, Arcata, Trinidad, Garberville, McKinleyville, Redcrest.
For the overarching travel guide: Humboldt.
