Things to do in Arcata

Activities, attractions and tours

A moonlit ocean with waves crashing onto a rocky shore.
A rocky coastline with a prominent rock formation, sandy beach, and ocean waves.
A pink and white Victorian-style building with a tower, surrounded by trees and a street.
Sun Going Down Over Horizon Along Trinidad, CA Coast in Humboldt County
A calm river bordered by dense forest and a clear blue sky.

Things to do

Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Eureka From Wood To Wonder!

Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Eureka From Wood To Wonder!

RM50
per adult
Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Eureka From Wood To Wonder!
Eureka: Histories and Street Art Tour

Eureka: Histories and Street Art Tour

RM647
per adult
Eureka: Histories and Street Art Tour
Private Flying Dress Photography Experience with Rental Included

Private Flying Dress Photography Experience with Rental Included

RM2,238
per adult
Private Flying Dress Photography Experience with Rental Included
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What to do in Arcata

Stay near popular Arcata attractions

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Arcata Plaza

8.2/10 (440 reviews)
Arcata Plaza buzzes with community life, especially during Saturday Farmers' Market with local crafts and music. Explore surrounding historic buildings like Jacoby's Storehouse for unique shopping and dining.
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Where to stay in Arcata

Find the best Arcata areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Pacific

While visiting Pacific, you might make a stop by sights like Mad River Beach County Park and Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

A calm lake with a cloudy sky and a line of trees in the distance.
Photo by Mel Vin
Open Photo by Mel Vin

Jacoby Creek

While visiting Jacoby Creek, you might make a stop by sights like Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Baywood Golf And Country Club.

Downtown

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

East Arcata

East Arcata might not have many top sights, but Arcata Community Forest and Arcata Plaza are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Valley West

While Valley West may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Arcata Plaza and Arcata Community Forest.

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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 flavours, 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 neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Arcata.