Things to do in Arcata

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A rocky coastline with a prominent rock formation, sandy beach, and ocean waves.
The rocky coast of Trinidad State Beach on the Pacific Ocean in Humboldt County, California
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Sun Going Down Over Horizon Along Trinidad, CA Coast in Humboldt County

Things to do

Eureka: Histories and Street Art Tour

Eureka: Histories and Street Art Tour

$159
per adult
Eureka: Histories and Street Art Tour
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What to do in Arcata

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Arcata? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

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 and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Arcata
Learn more about Arcata

Pacific

If you're spending some time in Pacific, Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Azalea State Natural Reserve are top sights worth seeing.

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

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.

Downtown

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

Valley West

Though Valley West might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Arcata Plaza and Arcata Community Forest.

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.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Arcata

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Eureka

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McKinleyville

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Blue Lake

A beach with waves, a clear sky, and distant mountains.

Samoa

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Bayside

Frequently asked questions

Is Arcata worth visiting?
Arcata has a unique mix of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or traditional cuisine, there's a lot here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Arcata?
After you've checked off key attractions like Sequoia Park Zoo and Humboldt State University Natural History Museum, spend the rest of your day exploring Arcata's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Arcata?
Sequoia Park Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in Arcata and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Arcata?
Three days in Arcata is enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Arcata Theatre Lounge, Humboldt State University Natural History Museum and Arcata Playhouse are among the most popular sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots like Eureka.
What are some activities to do in Arcata with kids?
Whether you're traveling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Arcata with kids.

What to do in Arcata for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are plenty of things to do in Arcata for adults including Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs and Los Bagels.
Are there free things to do in Arcata?
One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Arcata is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet. Mad River Beach County Park is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.