We all crave to visit places that offer unmatched fun experiences, and the golden city of California is right there to give you the perfect American dream experience.

Katy Perry best puts it in her famous quote, “You could travel the world, but nothing comes close to the golden coast.”

The city of California is fantastic, with many surprises enough to keep visitors glued to the city. In addition, there are lots of exciting locations to make a vacation memorable.

California’s true treasure lies in its suburbs, and the beautiful city of Arcata in Humboldt County is one of these hidden treasures.

Arcata is one of the best tourist cities in California. The area is the perfect spot for an outdoor fun experience, and its historical landmarks make it the ideal venue to go on a historical tour.

The city has lots of natural attractions with numerous restaurants and thrilling sceneries. However, the city also has a population of over 18,000 residents.

Interested in all Arcata has to offer?

Let’s check out some things to do in Arcata, California.

Things to Do in Arcata, CA

1. Watch a Baseball Game at the Arcata Ballpark

Are you a baseball lover looking for a place to watch baseball games in Arcata, California? Ensure to include a visit to Arcata Ballpark to watch Arcata baseball team play live at the park.

The Arcata Baseball team ( The Humboldt Crabs) is a favorite team at the Arcata Ballpark. They’ve been consistent competitors at the park since 1945.

Other teams from other regions, like Southern California, also play at the park. If you wish to see the city’s locals in their numbers, visit the park as the locals always come out to cheer their home team.

Location: 888 F St, Arcata, CA, 95521, United States

2. Enjoy Mediterranean Food at the Kebab Cafe

If you need a place to enjoy tasty Mediterranean food in Arcata, California, don’t miss a trip to Kebab Cafe on your itinerary list.

Kebab Cafe is a small restaurant in Arcata that serves mouthwatering Kebabs. Their menu has lots of options for visitors to select. Several meals like gyros, falafel, and Special Mediterranean cuisine are available at the restaurant.

Location: 5000 Valley W Blvd Ste 19, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

3. Sightseeing at the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary

How about a lovely day spotting exotic birds and feeding domestic pets?

If you need a place to enjoy the beauties of nature, Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary is the best fit for you.

Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary is an area that spans over 307-acre of land. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset and watch different bird species take flight.

Thousands of birds take time to find themselves on the marsh, so you’re sure to expect many different bird species in the area. Ensure to come along with your camera to take snaps and capture each moment.

Tour guides take visitors on tours around the marsh, so you’ll surely enjoy spending time here.

Location: Gearheart Marsh, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

4. Visit Moonrise Herbs for Medicinal Herbs

Outside the home of natural beauties and tourist attractions, the city of Arcata also has various health centers to shop for medicinal herbs.

The shop owners have a philosophy of promoting holistic self-care, personal healing, and spiritual growth.

Visitors can shop for high-quality herbs and tea blends at the shop. Other items available include extracts, essential oils, supplements, herbs, tea blends, and other natural body care products.

You could also pick up books on natural medicine or schedule a class at the center.

Location: 826 G St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

5. See a Movie at the Historic Arcata Theatre Lounge

Arcata Theatre Lounge is one of the oldest Theatres in the city of Arcata. So if you need a venue to watch movies and chill with family and friends, find your way to this historic theatre.

The Arcata Theatre Lounge stands out among other lounges due to its vertical marquee sign that lights up every sundown.

The theatre has undergone several renovations, but its Vintage Art Deco design is still a delight.

You can watch trending movies at the Theatre Lounge and ensure to check their official website for the latest movie days and times.

Location: 1020 G Street, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

6. Order Whiskey at Alchemy Distillery

Unlike many other Distilleries around the globe, Alchemy Distillery focuses on running a grain-to-bottle company. The pub made its first batch of whiskey in 2015, five years after the owner came up with the idea.

Instead of buying liquid grain-neutral spirits, The owners of Alchemy Distillery seek to run a pub that takes part in every aspect of the liquor making.

You can purchase Alchemy’s product ” BOLDT” from retail shops around the west coast, and they also run a commercial kitchen that serves a series of tasty meals.

Location: 330 S G St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

7. Hike at the Arcata Community Forest

If you need a place to go hiking in Arcata, you should consider visiting Arcata Community Forest.

Known for its fantastic vegetation and redwood trees, Arcata Community Forest is an area of over 790 acres of land mass, elevated from about 250ft to 1,010 ft.

The area is ample for hiking and several other outdoor fun activities. But, even if you’re not a fan of hiking or mountain climbing, you can sit and enjoy the wonders of nature.

Location: Arcata, CA 95521, United States

8. Purchase Local Produce at Arcata Farmers’ Market

It’s always fun visiting new markets and tasting fresh meals. If you wish to shop for local produce in Arcata, include Arcata Farmers’ Market on your bucket list of things to do in Arcata.

Arcata Farmers’ Market ranks among one of California’s certified farmers’ markets. So it is striking to know that this market is the longest-running in California.

The market also Stands out for its delicious pastries and meals, so ensure to stop by before leaving Arcata, California.

Location: Arcata Plaza, 7th & G · Arcata, CA 95521, United States

9. Go Shopping in the Old Town Eureka

You will arrive in the town of Eureka just 11 minutes drive south of Arcata, and in this beautiful town lies a shopping venue ”Old Town Eureka.”

Several restaurants in the district sell tasty meals and shops to buy clothing, jewels, and any product of your choice.

Location: Eureka, CA, United States

10. Family Time Out at Hatchet House Throwing Club

If you need a place to experience indoor fun, then Hatchet House Throwing Club is the best place.

Hatchet House Throwing Club is a family-owned club ideal for family outings in Arcata, California. The Club has a vast area for Axe throwing and is the best indoor Axe throwing venue in Arcata.

The area is also an affiliate of the World’s Axe Throwing League. Special right?

Guests and locals enjoy each hour at this venue as many activities are available for people of all ages. So whether you wish to play games or connect with your ”inner lumberjack”, you’ll surely enjoy your time here.

Location: 737 G St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States.

11. Taste Local Wine at the Wrangletown Cider Company

Do you have a thing for wines and cider? Well, Arcata has one of the finest cider companies in California.

Owned by Pat Knittel, Wrangletown Cider Company offers an extensive local wine and cider collection. Pat Knittel started the company in 2000 after perfecting the French wine variety, Pinot Noir.

The company introduces new wines into its collection yearly, making more choices if wine is available to guests. You can also order dry cider from their winery.

Location: 955 I St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

12. Relax at Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs

If you need an oasis to relax and calm your head after a stressful day of touring the city of Arcata, then you mustn’t miss a visit to Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs.

Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs provides an oasis experience for locals and tourists looking to relax, free themselves from the daily job stress, or just calm their minds.

Existing since 1982, Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs has a private traditional sauna cabin built with grass roofs and interiors made with western red cedar.

Also available in the areas are a natural light source and a private outdoor hot tub made with jarrah wood. There’s also a dressing room in the area.

Location: 495 J St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States.

13. Shop for Jewelry at Holly Yashi Store and Design Studio

Holly Yashi Store and Design Studio, running since 1981, is the result of a combined effort of Holly Hosterman and Paul ” Yashi”.

Jointly they produced a signature style of jewelry using niobium, which appears dull but turns to a brilliant colorful hue when dipped in electronically charged water.

Their unique designs are available in various shops in the United States, but their parent shop resides in Arcata, California.

After more than 40 years of Jewelry making, guests can now find a variety of unique jewelry designs from earrings to necklaces, rings, and anklets in Holly Yashi Store and Design Studio.

And don’t forget to shop for gifts and souvenirs at this unique shop.

Location: 1300 9th St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

14. Experience College Campus Life at the Humboldt State University

Good things, they say, come in small packages, and this lovely city of Arcata, California, is no exception.

Arcata has one of the best and most affordable Universities in California: Humboldt State University.

The State University offers lots of graduate and undergraduate programs. With over 48 majors and a dozen graduate programs, the University also features outdoor sports games like football and art exhibitions.

Do not exit Arcata without seeing this beautiful campus.

Location: 1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA 95521, USA

15. Tour Around the Historic Phillips House Museum

Arcata’s city contains many beautiful places with historical relevance, and the Historic Phillips House Museum is one of those places.

Historic Phillips House Museum holds significance in the city’s history. It depicts the model of houses built in the early times of Arcata.

Although due to innovations, most houses have now adopted innovations, and Phillips house is one of the few yet to embrace this innovation.

Phillips House is now a mini-museum with many artifacts and houseware, reminding the locals of the city’s early days. Tour guides can take guests on tours, so you don’t miss your way to the museum.

Location: 71 7th St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

16. Play Golf at Baywood Golf And Country Club

Are you a golf lover looking for a place to play golf in Arcata? Then, a visit to Baywood Golf and Country Club is your best fit.

Baywood Golf and Country Club, designed by Chandler Egan as a nine-hole golf course, is rated as one of the best golf courses in California.

It’s currently the best private course on California’s North Coast.

The history goes back to 1933 when famous player Chandler Egan designed the original nine-hole course. The system has undergone various improvements.

The golf course is now an eighteen-hole golf course with majestic redwoods. The course is open for locals and guests to enjoy a game of golf, and everything you need is available at the system.

The golf course also has an area reserved for an outdoor experience, and guests can order food at the available restaurant.

Location: 3600 Buttermilk Ln, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

17. Watch Theatre Plays at Arcata Playhouse

How about visiting a place where you can watch theatre plays and dine with family? Arcata Playhouse has got all these covered and offers more.

Arcata Playhouse, built in 2006, aims to enlighten the community on the power and relevance of theatre productions. Though not very large, The Theatre is a 160-seat theatre with an alliance between Redwood Jazz and Humboldt Arts Festival.

Together, they team up to present performances for the general community. They also hold educational Family-fun series every year. The series aims to teach young locals about theatre.

Location: 1251 9th St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

18. Order Freshly Baked Bagels at Los Bagels

Very few bakeries exist in Arcata m, California, so you shouldn’t miss out on the chance to visit the few available ones. Los Bagels is an exceptional bakery in northern California that serves freshly baked bagels and bread.

They have a thing for culture and traditions, reflected in their bread and pastries.

Their chorizo is one stand-out item at the bakery, as chorizo isn’t typical among most bakeries in the country.

If you want a pleasant taste, visit Los Bagels and order their toasted bagels flavored with cream cheese and guacamole.

Location: 1061 I St, Arcata, CA, United States

19. Stand Beside the Gigantic Redwood Trees in Redwood Park

Arcata City isn’t one of those cities you’ll wish to find a redwood tree forest. But guess what? Right in this fascinating city lies a vast redwood tree forest reserve.

Over at Redwood Park are several substantial redwood trees, thousands of years old. The park is a reserved area inside Arcata Community Forest.

It’s a perfect area for a family picnic and ensures to carry your camera alongside to take Snaps of you standing beside these gigantic redwood trees.

Among other things present at the park are trails for hiking and biking. You can also enjoy horseback riding at the park.

Location: Park Dr, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

20. Watch the Kinetic Sculpture Race

If you happen to be in Arcata during the Kinetic Sculpture Race, then make plans to attend, and you’ll be glad you did.

The Kinetic Sculpture Race in Arcata has been a local tradition of Arcata since 1969. Also known as the Triathlon of the Art World, the race spans over three days.

The race commences from Arcata Town plaza at 10 am and ends at the South in Ferndale. Many exciting spots are available to watch the race; Eureka Waterfront, Main Street of Historic Ferndale, and Arcata Plaza.

Location: Arcata, CA, United States

21. Explore Mad River Beach County Park

If you need a place to go on a walk while enjoying the beautiful scenery, then Mad River Beach County Park is a must-visit.

Mad River Beach County Park features two natural attractions: the Beachfront and the Mad River.

Whether you wish to engage in watersports or enjoy an attractive sight, you’ll indeed ensure to spend time at Mad River Beach County Park.

The beachfront is best for fresh air and enjoying fantastic scenery at the park.

The Mad River, on the other hand,d is perfect for water activities like kayaking, canoeing, and boating due to the availability of boat ramps and boat rentals in the area.

Location: 1 Mad River Rd, Arcata, CA, United States

22. Be Amazed by the Ma-le’l Dunes

Ma-le’l Dunes is one of the best areas you’ll spot in Arcata, California; This Desert-like land comprises two authorities.

Ma-le’l Dunes is a historic landmark covering over 160 acres of sandy barren land. This historic landmark is part of the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and one of nature’s reserves in Arcata, California.

Location: North Ma-le’l Dunes Road, California 95521, United States

23. Spend Time at Clam Beach County Park

Clam Beach County Park, situated in McKinleyville, is one of the best things to do in Arcata, California.

The town of Mckinleyville is just a 10 mins drive from Arcata, California, so make sure to stop by at Clam Beach County Park whenever you visit Arcata.

Clam Beach County Park is home to an abundance of razor clams, and visitors can have fun digging deep to scout for them.

The park also features areas for camping for those who wish to stay all through the night. In addition, you’ll enjoy the incredible scenery, touring the beach, and hiking the trails at the park.

Location: Clam Beach Dr, McKinleyville, CA 95519, United States

24. Mad River Fish Hatchery

Mad River Fish Hatchery aims to preserve Chinook salmon and steelhead fish populations in Arcata, California.

The Hatchery stocks lakes throughout Northern California with trout and other fish species.

Mad River Fish Hatchery was temporarily closed in 200,4, although it re-opened in 2005 and has been raising fish since then.

Visitors can explore a ton of options at the Hatchery. Fishing lovers can explore their fishing prowess at the Hatchery, an area reserved for picnics with friends and family.

Location:1660 Hatchery Rd, Blue Lake, CA, United States

When is the Best Time to Visit Arcata, California?

The best time to Visit Arcata, California, for ideal weather is between June 18th to September 30th.

The average weather temperature in Arcata, California, differs significantly.

If you’re looking for the warmest time to visit Arcata, the hottest months are July, August, and June.

The month of July is the busiest, and prices of hotels inflate within this period.

December seems to be less crowded, so tourists planning on a vacation with a low budget can schedule their visit within these days as the prices of hotels are less expensive this time.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Arcata, California?

Regardless of where you are around the globe, the Average worldwide flight cost to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is between $617 and $985 per person (economy flights)

And $1,936 to $3,091 per person for a first-class flight

How Much Does it Cost to Live in Arcata, California as a Guest (Visitor)?

The average cost of living for a 7-day trip in Arcata, California, is as follows:

$1,532 for a solo traveler

$2,751 for a couple

And $5,158 for a family of 4.

A solo traveler looking to visit Arcata, California, is expected to budget $44 to $98 per day for feeding and transportation.

The average hotel price for a solo traveler is $71 to $94 per night for a 1, 2, or 3-star hotel room. $102 to $124 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental.

Couples, on the other hand, are expected to have a budget of $88 to $196 per day for food, sightseeing, and transportation.

For couples, hotels range from $71 to $94 per night for a 1,2, or 3-star hotel room. $102 to $124 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental.

The average budget for a family of 4 is between $176 to $392 per day for food and transportation.

While for lodging, the average price for two or 3-star hotels is $142 to $188 per night. $153 to $198 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental.