Day Trip to Ferndale California: Humboldt County’s Victorian Village

Ferndale, California, a charming small town in Humboldt County, is more than just its well-preserved Victorian architecture. It’s a community, a place where visitors are welcomed with open arms and a strong sense of belonging. This cozy, walkable destination, with its strong sense of community, is a testament to the town’s dedication to preserving its historical beauty, making it one of the most well-preserved and beautiful historic cities in the entire state.

Top Things to Do in Ferndale, California

Main Street Ferndale:

Take a stroll down Main Street to discover boutique shops, antique stores, and charming cafes. Be sure to visit the Blacksmith Shop for unique hand-forged ironwork and the Candy Stick for delightful old-fashioned sweets. The building facades showcase the ornate, candy-colored ‘painted ladies’ characteristic of Victorian-era architecture. Not only are the buildings visually striking, but the gardens and grounds surrounding the homes and storefronts are a testament to Ferndale’s dedication to preserving its history.

Golden Gait Mercantile: While walking down the main street, be sure to pop into the Golden Gait Mercantile. Stepping into this shop is like going back in time, an extraordinary place filled with antique finds, candy made from vintage recipes, beautiful homewares, and up-to-date fashions. There is even a section upstairs that shows how the store and pharmacy would have appeared when it first opened in the late 1800s—see the 421 Main St. website.

Visit Historic Ferndale Sites

Explore the Ferndale Museum to delve into local history, featuring exhibits on the 1906 earthquake and early settler life. The Kinetic Sculpture Race Museum showcases quirky, human-powered contraptions from the annual Kinetic Sculpture Race. Besides showcasing photographs and information about the town’s original founding and operations, the museum features two working seismographs built nearly 100 years ago to detect and measure earthquakes. Address: 515 Shaw Ave.

Fern Cottage & Shaw House

For travelers interested in history, check out the two most historically significant homes in Ferndale: Fern Cottage and The Shaw House. Fern Cottage maintains its original Victorian furnishings, which have been passed down from generation to generation since its first residents took occupancy, making it one of the few houses to have maintained the same family line since the 1870s.

Shaw House Inn: The Shaw House holds the distinction of being the oldest home in Ferndale. Built in 1854 by the town’s founder, the Victorian gem has served as a home, post office, courthouse, and bed and breakfast. Be a part of history by staying there during your visit. Address: 703 Main Street. Website.

Ferndale Cemetery: The first and most famous attraction in Ferndale is its history. Located on a sweeping hillside overlooking the town with flowers scattered around the walkways, the Ferndale cemetery is one of California’s most historic cemeteries. Just two blocks from the main street, the graveyard is an excellent place to start or end your day in Ferndale. On a clear day, you can even see the ocean views from the top of the hillside.

Tips Before You Visit Ferndale, California

Getting There: Ferndale is about a 4.5-hour drive from San Francisco via Highway 101. The nearest airport is Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV), located in Eureka, approximately 30 minutes away. Public transit options are limited, so a car is recommended.

Where to Stay: Options include historic B&Bs, such as the Gingerbread Mansion Inn, budget motels, and nearby vacation rentals. Camping is available at the Humboldt County Fairgrounds or nearby state parks.
Dining: Try farm-to-table fare at places like VI Restaurant or grab a burger at Pop’s Diner. For a sweet treat, Mind’s Eye Coffee and Bakery is a local favorite.
Weather: Ferndale has a mild coastal climate. Summers are cool (50-70°F) with morning fog, while winters are rainy (40-60°F). Pack layers and waterproof gear.
The best time to visit is late spring (April to May) or early fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer. Summer is great for festivals, but it’s also a busy time. Visit Ferndale’s website.

Nearby Attractions

Redwood National and State Parks (45 minutes north): Walk among the world’s tallest trees.
Eureka (20 minutes north): A larger city with more dining, shopping, and the Sequoia Park Zoo.
Lost Coast (1-2 hours drive): Explore remote beaches and trails for a rugged adventure.
Ferndale is perfect for a weekend escape if you love history, nature, and small-town vibes.

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