With heat waves sweeping the country this summer, it’s time to cool off and discover the long list of fantastic things to do in Eureka, CA! Our charming Victorian town, perched on the Pacific Ocean and the edge of the Redwood and Sequoia forests, is the perfect destination for your next romantic getaway, quick weekend trip, or group vacation. There’s an ideal combination of outdoor adventures, excellent dining, and lively events to add to your itinerary.
One of the best things to do in Eureka is explore the outdoors! From miles of hiking trails along the coast and in the shade of giant Redwoods, you’ll soak up the wilderness during your visit. Located within the city of Eureka, Sequoia Park is a 67-acre grove that features walking and bicycle trails through the Redwood forest. You will also find meadows, a duck pond, and two small creeks within the park. This is an ideal spot for novice hikers or those looking for a leisurely walk through the woods.
The downtown area of Eureka is known for its Victorian-era mansions. For those who would like to experience these architectural gems first-hand, Carter House Inns is one of the best hotels in Eureka, CA, for your lodging! We have 33 rooms spanning four unique Victorian buildings, including the Hotel Carter, the Carter House, the Carter Cottage, and the Bell Cottage. All of our rooms include luxurious touches and amenities to make your stay relaxing and memorable. Book your lodging in Eureka today!
California Getaway: The 10 Best Things to do in Eureka, CA
Visiting Eureka, CA, offers a lovely blend of historical charm and natural beauty. This coastal city is renowned for its stunning Victorian architecture, notably the Carson Mansion, and vibrant arts scene. Eureka’s proximity to the majestic Redwood National and State Parks makes it a prime spot for exploring the world’s tallest trees. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
Here are the best things to do in Eureka on your next getaway:
- Old Town & Architecture: Known for its beautifully preserved Victorian structures and bustling waterfront, visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour exploring the unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants in restored buildings, as well as scenic views of Humboldt Bay. If you prefer a guide, book a tour with Old Town Carriage Rides—on an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage!
- The Historic Carson Mansion: Perhaps the most well-known structure in town, this historic mansion belonged to William Carson, who made his fortune by shipping Redwood lumber. Be sure to walk or drive by during your stay!
- Eureka Waterfront Trail: This paved trail is located on the shore of Humboldt Bay, stretching 6.5 miles from end to end. It’s popular for long walks, biking, and nature viewing. The scenery includes coastal willow patches, dune systems, salt marsh, and river habitats.
- Explore Humboldt Bay: The beaches in Eureka may be less about sunbathing and swimming and more about beachcombing, exploring sand dunes, surfing, and wildlife viewing. Heading to the beach is still one of the best things to do in Eureka! The scenic vistas are expansive, the waves are impressive, and the sandy stretches are perfect for long beach walks.
- Head down to Samoa Beach. This favorite beach is just west of Eureka, with beautiful sand dunes of all sizes and ten miles of shoreline to explore.
- Sequoia Park Zoo & Trails: As one of the oldest zoos in California, this popular attraction features a variety of animals, an aviary, and a petting barn adjacent to the Sequoia Park Forest & Garden, which has lovely walking trails through old-growth Redwoods.
- Best Eureka Restaurants: There is a fantastic selection of restaurants in Eureka to try during your stay. While you’ll want to enjoy breakfast and at least one dinner at Restaurant 301, you’ll also find everything from authentic Italian at Brick & Fire Bistro and incredible seafood at Five Eleven to casual fare at the Café Waterfront.
- Local Annual Events in Eureka: There’s a packed calendar of events and things to do in Eureka all year long! Every First Saturday is a fabulous Arts Alive festival in Old Town, as well as Farmers Markets, music festivals, and concert series. This year marks the first annual Rumbler Over the Redwoods, a thrilling new airshow.
- Scenic Drive on the Redwood Highway: This area is known for having some of the most scenic drives through the Redwood forests. Drive along this scenic byway and be astounded by the size and scope of the tallest trees in the world.
- Day Trip to the Redwoods National Park: About 45 minutes from downtown Eureka, the Redwoods National Park is the perfect distance for a scenic drive and day hiking through these tall, beautiful trees.
One of the Best Hotels in Eureka, CA, for Lodging on the Coast
After you’ve explored all the best things to do in Eureka, CA, you’ll be ready to relax at Carter House Inns. We have an array of lodging options to fit every vacation style, including pet-friendly rooms, exceptional queen rooms at affordable pricing, and luxurious Grand Suites—ideal for those romantic getaway trips to California.
The Grand Suites feature in-room whirlpool spa tubs with views of the Victorian neighborhood, magnificent fireplaces, and double-headed luxury walk-in showers. Whichever lodging accommodation you choose, you’ll be treated to a lovely breakfast each morning and a complimentary glass of wine in the evenings. It’s these small touches that make Carter House Inns one of the best hotels in Eureka!
Hotel Carter is also home to our elegant on-site dining option: Restaurant 301. Where our talented chefs serve a thoughtful three-course tasting menu, starting with an amuse bouché. We use local and seasonal ingredients whenever possible, and our space offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of the best restaurants in Eureka to finish your day after exploring the beautiful beaches, Redwood forests, and more. We can’t wait to host you; book your lodging today!
