Things to do in Arcata

Activities, attractions and tours

Grandmother Rock Standing Proudly at Trinidad State Beach, California, USA
Grandmother Rock Standing Proudly at Trinidad State Beach, California, USA
Mad River near downtown Blue Lake, California
Gearhart Marsh has short trails to wander, looping through wetlands and next to Humboldt Bay.
Just off of New Navy Base road, looking past Humboldt Bay towards Arcata, California
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What to do in Arcata

Popular places to visit

Arcata, California, USA - November 22, 2021: Morning light illuminates beautiful historic downtown Arcata.

Arcata Plaza

You can learn about the history of Arcata with a stop at Arcata Plaza. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Arcata Plaza
Arcata Redwoods Mushroom

Arcata Community Forest

Explore the great outdoors at Arcata Community Forest, a lovely green space in Arcata. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Arcata Community Forest

Cal Poly Humboldt State University

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Cal Poly Humboldt State University, during your travels in Arcata. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Cal Poly Humboldt State University

Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs

You can take time to visit Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs during your travels to Arcata. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs

Los Bagels

Enjoy an outing to Los Bagels during your stay in Arcata. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Los Bagels

Arcata Theatre Lounge

You can get tickets for a performance at Arcata Theatre Lounge on your trip to Arcata. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Arcata Theatre Lounge

Humboldt State University Natural History Museum

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Humboldt State University Natural History Museum during your trip to Arcata. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Humboldt State University Natural History Museum

Mad River Beach County Park

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Mad River Beach County Park during your travels in Arcata? While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Mad River Beach County Park

Arcata Playhouse

You can enjoy a show at Arcata Playhouse during your trip to Arcata. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Arcata Playhouse

Areas of Arcata

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Pacific

If you're spending some time in Pacific, Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Mad River Beach County Park are top sights worth seeing.

Pacific
View from one of the marsh trails

Jacoby Creek

If you're spending some time in Jacoby Creek, Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Baywood Golf And Country Club are top sights worth seeing.

Jacoby Creek
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Downtown

While visiting Downtown, you might make a stop by sights like Arcata Plaza and Los Bagels.

Downtown
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East Arcata

While there might not be top attractions in East Arcata, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Arcata Community Forest and Arcata Plaza.

East Arcata
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Arcata Heights

When in Arcata Heights, you can plan a visit to Arcata Plaza and Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Arcata Heights
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Sunny Brae

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Sunny Brae and surrounding area, you can visit Arcata Community Forest and Arcata Plaza.

Sunny Brae
Redwood National and State Parks which includes waves, general coastal views and a sandy beach

Eureka

Foggy Humboldt County Coastline Northern California morning in the fall

McKinleyville

panoramic shot of turquiose blue Lake Helen in Lassen Volcano National Park in Northern California on a clear blue summer sky

Blue Lake

Frequently asked questions

Is Arcata worth visiting?
Arcata offers an interesting mix of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into nature, history or local culinary flavors, there are many things you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Arcata?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Sequoia Park Zoo and Humboldt State University Natural History Museum. Then, explore different parts of Arcata for a bite to eat and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Arcata?
Sequoia Park Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in Arcata and should be high on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Arcata?
Three days will give you enough time to check out the leading city sights, including Arcata Theatre Lounge, Humboldt State University Natural History Museum and Arcata Playhouse. The average stay in Arcata is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Eureka isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Arcata with kids?
Deciding what to do in Arcata with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained here.
What to do in Arcata for adults?
Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs and Los Bagels are just a couple of the things to do in Arcata. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Arcata?
In Arcata, Mad River Beach County Park is a popular spot for anyone looking to see the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the local parks and neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Arcata.