California is a beautiful destination for international travelers. Cities like San Francisco and LA are popular for their nightlife, beaches, and high-profile city life. Multiple movies are shot here, and you’ve surely seen many Hollywood and Bollywood films that showcase California’s stunning beauty. If you’re looking for a more serene getaway, explore the things to do in Ukiah, a charming town that offers a refreshing escape from the bustling cities, with its natural beauty and unique attractions that will leave you equally captivated.
If you are planning to visit a place where the sun kisses you and has beautiful beaches and wonderful city life to enjoy, California is your place. One such place is Ukiah in California. There are multiple things to do in Ukiah, CA.
The beautiful city of Ukiah is situated in a valley and the Russian River flows nearby. The stunning beauty of the valley and the small population make this a good choice for a family, solo, or honeymoon location.
Here is a list of activities that are recommended as a few of the fun things to do in Ukiah.
Things to do in Ukiah.
1. Redwood Tree Service Station:
Do you know about the world’s largest redwood tree service? If not, then you must visit and witness a different vibe.
Visiting this place is one of the most important things to do in Ukiah, CA. The 1930s saw the birth of the World’s Largest Redwood Tree Service Station, thanks to a 1,500-year-old ancient tree
This tree was cut down and transported to town, where it underwent a transformation and was converted into a gas station in 1936. The tree was transformed into a service station, and for this, its transportation into the town was done. Locals called it the “Stump.”
The place also has a museum. It is still a fantastic tourist destination, even if it is no longer used for gas distribution.
2. Observatory Park
Observatory Park is a more distinctive amusement park in Ukiah that provides a distinct experience. Visitors of all ages may enjoy themselves, discover new things, and have fun at Observatory Park.
You may learn more about the observatory by taking tours and taking part in any of the many fascinating and educational activities that the park hosts.
This is a place where friends and family may come together to play football or simply to hang out. For those who love the outdoors, you should spend some time admiring the exquisite gardens dotted across the park.
Pet owners are welcome to visit Observatory Park as well. Without a doubt, visiting this park will be a fun thing to do in Ukiah, California.
3. Grace Hudson Museum
If you are interested in art, then this museum will be a must on your list of fun things to do in Ukiah, CA. The Grace Hudson Museum is included on the US National Register of Historic Places and is a designated historical landmark in California.
The American painter Grace Carpenter Hudson, whose Pomo Indian paintings made her career famous, is honored by the museum. Along with the Sun home next to the museum, this was where she and her husband lived till they passed away.
The Grace Hudson Museum honors her contributions and life. The Ivan B. and Elvira Hart Gallery, which has several pen, watercolor, oil, and ink works, is also located there.
But there are more of her personal items and family-owned assets on display at the Norma and Evert Person Gallery.
4. Stan’s Maple Cafe
California has a great cafe culture and this visit is a very fun thing to do in Ukiah. Originally established as the Redwood Empire Confectionery in 1922, Stan’s Maple Café offered ice cream and candies.
It was eventually transformed into a café with a warm cocktail lounge, and Stan’s Maple Café was born. The café is a favorite hangout for many families and friends who come for a great dinner and experience.
Their staff is exceedingly kind and pleasant, going above and beyond to ensure that clients are completely delighted.
Amazing breakfast and lunch selections are available at Stan’s Maple Café, sure to make any diner happy. Breakfast quesadillas, huevos rancheros, buttermilk biscuits, classic oatmeal, sandwiches, and other items are available for customers.
5. Rivini Winery
The beautiful city of Ukiah is situated near the Russian River in Mendocino County, where lies a winery called Rivino. It’s a laid-back small winery that crafts delicious wines from grapes.
To always provide the finest for clients, the winery uses a unique procedure that has been tried and proven over time. Rivino is particular from the start of the harvest to the very end of the bottling process.
With its grapes, Rivino Winery makes all of its wines by hand, giving it complete control over the winemaking process. Even if you do not drink, visiting here will be a fun thing to do in Ukiah as you get a chance, to sample some of their excellent creations and take in the breathtaking scenery.
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6. Low Gap Park
Ukiah West Hill’s Low Gap Park is an unusual 80-acre park. In 1964, it was declared a park.
Its current location has served as a landfill, a timber mill, and a housing development for mill workers, among other uses.
It was utilized for two different reasons, the remnants of which may be found throughout the park. There are plenty of entertaining features and amenities at Low Gap Park for guests of all ages to enjoy. You will have many things to do in Ukiah, CA, like this.
In addition to playgrounds, picnic spaces, bathrooms, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, and a dog park, there is an archery range and a disc golf course. The park has an amphitheater where several plays, concerts, and thrilling events are held.
A terrific place for family and friends to get together, chat, and have fun is Ukiah’s Low Gap Park. One of the enjoyable things to do in Ukiah, California, is explore it.
7. Slam Dunk Pizza
You’re going to be quite surprised if, even for a moment, you believe that you have had the finest pizza. In the area, Slam Dunk Pizza in Ukiah is regarded as the best place to get pizza.
All week long, Slam Dunk Pizza serves a large selection of freshly cooked pizzas. They include a variety of vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan lunch and dinner options. In addition, the eatery has a construct-your-own pizza option using many of its specialty pies, including Detriot pizza.
Don’t forget to sample their chicken wings, salads, and sandwiches, as well as their well-known Slam Dunk, Touchdown, and Takedown. Slam Dunk Pizza provides a well-designed arcade where customers can enjoy themselves to the fullest.
8. Orr Hot Springs
Uncertain of things to do in Ukiah, California? Take a trip to Orr Hot Springs to revitalize and relax. Located just between Mendocino and Ukiah on the country highway, Orr Hot Springs is a modest, tranquil resort.
One of the best hot spring resorts in the area is this privately owned and operated facility. It provides a fantastic selection of options for amazing therapeutic hot tub experiences, including stargazing tubs, private tubs, community tubs, and trilby springs.
Visitors have access to a great cold pool for cooling off after getting splashed. Reserving is required to access Orr Hot Springs. This is going to be a relaxing and fun thing to do in Ukiah, CA.
9. Honey Fluff
Are you trying to find the ideal gift for your loved ones or your little children? When it comes to providing the finest for its clients, Honey Fluff never lets them down.
Every customer’s taste buds are delighted by the extensive selection of specialty delicacies that Honey Fluff Donuts has to offer. They make sure there is something for everyone by providing a wide variety of mouthwatering goodies in a variety of flavors.
The tastiest cake donuts, apple fritters, filled donuts, fluffy donuts, donut holes, and more are available at this eatery. You can have lovely food, which is a fun thing to do in Ukiah. The majority come in a variety of flavors, including chocolate, buttermilk, vanilla coconut, cinnamon sugar, blueberry, and more.
Honey Fluff Donuts is open Monday through Saturday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sunday from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. (early arrival is recommended).
10. Patrona Restaurant and Launge
The family-run Patrona Restaurant and Lounge is situated in a prime location in the center of Ukiah. The historic structure that once housed a grocery store is now home to Patrona Restaurant and Lounge. This place has various fun things to do in Ukiah, CA.
The restaurant welcomes guests to come in and have a pleasant lunch with their loved ones in a cozy and welcoming environment. It is exquisitely built, with distinctive brick walls and tables embellished with locally crafted art pieces.
The staff at Patrona Restaurant and Lounge is kind and joyful, going above and beyond to ensure that patrons are comfortable. Seasonal variations occur often in the cuisine. Customers always receive the finest since every meal is prepared fresh
11. Schat’s Bakery
Visit Schat’s Bakery if you’re thinking of the ideal excursion that allows you to sample some delectable and mind-blowing goodies. Schat’s Bakery aims to consistently provide the best goods and services along with exceptional quality.
Since 1991, they have continually made people happy because of their dedication to this goal. But the family’s history begins in 1893, when they were only starting in Holland.
They own three bakeries in Ukiah. As a result, it is growing in importance within the community. Schat’s Bakery serves breakfast and lunch dishes in addition to freshly baked items, including breads and cakes. Visiting this bakery is one of the best fun things to do in Ukiah, California, as its history and taste will stay in your mind forever. Don’t forget to sample their specialty handmade quiche, which is baked daily on-site
12. The Municipal Swimming Pool in Ukiah
Explore the Ukiah Municipal Swimming Pool next on your list of enjoyable things to do in Ukiah, California, especially with your loved ones.
The Ukiah Municipal Swimming Pool is a great place to cool down, especially during the summer. People from all walks of life may connect, splash about, and have a great time at this wonderful site. You can ask for a daily or seasonal pass if you want to remain in this city for an extended period of time.
Lap swim lanes, pull buoys, and kickboards are available for lap swimming. Anyone interested in leisure programs can sign up for senior Aqua Aerobics, splash dance Aqua Aerobics, water workout sessions, and more.
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13. Nelson Family Vineyard
In the city of Ukiah, Nelson Family Vineyards is an example of a reliable and committed business. For more than 60 years, the family has cared for stunning and charming vineyards.
There are areas set aside for standing Christmas trees, Bartlett pears, olive gardens, and plum orchards as you stroll around the property. Visit the place and enjoy the beautiful vineyard, it is an enjoyable thing to do in Ukiah, California.
Nelson Family Vineyards offers a short trail walk from the parking area that leads to the tasting room. With its wildflowers, hummingbirds, buzzing bees, finches, and other wildlife, the stroll provides an intriguing experience. You’ll be surprised by the tasting room’s coziness.
14. Vichy Springs Resort
With more than 150 years of history, Vichy Springs Resort offers guests the ideal escape. The resort has more than 20 guest accommodations, including cottages, and is situated in the heart of Mendocino’s wine region. It is made up of a 700-acre reserve that is privately held and perfect for doing fun things to do in Ukiah, CA. They have thrilling outdoor sports.
Hiking and walking routes, a regular-sized swimming pool, champagne baths, mineral baths, and so on are all available. The pools at Vichy Springs Resort are ideal for various forms of swimming and bathing. They consist of a Chemical Falls pool, a hot pool, etc.
While day tourists can enjoy two to three hours at Vichy Springs Resort Spa, overnight guests can stay longer.
15. Mendocino tree
With a height of 368.37 feet, the Mendocino Tree is regarded as the eleventh tallest tree in the world. It should undoubtedly be on your list of the best things to do in Ukiah, California.
Starting from the parking area, the walk up to the tree provides an easy 20-minute stroll. As you stroll down the trail, you will become aware of the variety of plants and animals that inhabit the region. You would be astounded by the Mendocino Tree’s splendor because it is far taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York.
Encircled by one of the last three redwood forests, this is an adventure you wouldn’t want to miss. You should also pay a visit to the nearby, well-known redwoods if you have the time.
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16. Art Center Ukiah
The non-profit Art Center Ukiah is governed and operated entirely by volunteers. It is also a part of the Corner Gallery, an organization for artists that brings together a wide range of artistic individuals. If you are into the arts and love to explore new artists, this place is a fun thing to do in Ukiah.
These individuals congregate in the same spot, which is situated in a stunning downtown structure. In addition to offering artists a comfortable workspace for their work, Art Centre Ukiah organizes public art events for both residents and visitors. You must visit this place you have
In addition to showcasing artists working in a range of media, the center organizes several public events that allow the artists to exhibit their work. Every month on the first Friday, Art Centre Ukiah hosts an art walk whereby guest artists and diverse members of the art community are invited to participate.
17. Brewing Company-Ukiah
Around Ukiah, the Cooperrider family founded Ukiah Brewing Company around 2000. It is the nation’s first officially recognized organic brewery. The brewery’s aims and objectives have remained constant despite many ownership changes.
The business cares about and is committed to helping the locals as well as those in other locations. They provide a large selection of house-brewed craft beers with unique flavors and textures that are highly satisfying.
The Ukiah Brewing Company serves a selection of beers, including Willists Wit, Cold IPA, Ukiah Pilsner, and Palace Porter. A selection of the brews is available for sampling in growlers, crawler cans, and flights, among other sizes.
18. Farmer Market
Visiting a Local farmer’s market is a fun thing to do in Ukiah. They gathered on Saturday mornings to provide goods obtained locally to the public, founding the Ukiah Farmers’ Market in 1977.
Presently, Ukiah Farmers’ Market is regarded as one of the largest farmers’ markets in the county, providing a friendly environment for everybody. Relationships within the family and the community are the foundation of this market. Everyone appears to know one another here.
The Ukiah Farmers’ Market provides delicious and high-quality food. With time, it has expanded to include crop vendors selling the freshest fish.
This fantastic farmers’ market has hosted several events and activities over the years, including dance exhibitions and music performances. You may enjoy a delightful beverage and a sample of their freshly cooked pastries while you watch these thrilling acts.
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19. Simaine Cellars
Family-run Simaine Cellars, a vineyard located in the center of Northern California’s captivating Redwood Forest, is the best thing to do in Ukiah, CA.
In 2004, the winery formally opened for business. They are well-known for creating delicious wines by hand. You must stop at this location as long as you are in the city. Everyone treats guests like family and gives them a warm welcome.
You get the chance to meet with Simaine Cellars’ proprietors, who also serve as managers and winemakers, and even sample their wines directly from the barrel.
You might purchase cheese platters and other light snacks to go with your wine as you sip it. Remember to have a look at the lovely jewelry collection that one of the proprietors, Brenda Simon, has created.
20 Parducci Wine Cellar
One of the greatest things to do in Ukiah, California, is go on a wine-drinking binge. Parducci Wine Cellars is the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a nice glass of wine whenever you feel like it.
With more than 85 years of experience, Parducci Wine Cellars has been making amazing wines. If you want to experience the authentic Ukiah wine culture and heritage, you should stop by this place as its one of the best thing to do in Ukiah, CA..
It is regarded as Mendocino County’s oldest winery and plays a significant role in the state’s winemaking heritage. Parducci Wine Cellars is well-known for producing exquisite Petite Sirah that is distinct, simplified, and handmade.
They also make other highly regarded wines, such as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Visit their well-known tasting room, which was rated as “excellent” by the San Francisco Chronicle and included in its list of the best 11 places to enjoy wine.
21. The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas
The largest Buddhist monastic community in the United States is referred to as the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas. One of the best things to do in Ukiah, California, is to explore this location, as it is a soulful thing to do in Ukiah, CA.
A Chan Buddhist monk named Hsuan Hua founded this group in 1974. He was a key figure in the introduction of Chinese Buddhism to the United States.
While day visitors are urged to explore various locations within the premises, you are welcome to come and stay longer to join the dharma classes. A 10,000 Buddha jewelry hall with over a thousand Buddha images adorning its walls may be seen in the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas.
Additionally, there is the majestic Words Hall, where lectures and gatherings are held, as well as the Hall of No Words, which houses Buddha’s dinosaurs.