Best Things to do in Mendocino | Must-see attractions 2025

Highlight Gallery

11:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

45094 Main Street

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Highlight Gallery in Mendocino showcases hand-crafted wooden furniture, combining artistry with functional design, enhancing the local cultural landscape.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Workshops may have a fee.

Mendocino Area Parks Association

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

45035 Main Street

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Mendocino Area Parks Association supports local parks through funding, volunteer efforts, and collaboration with the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Mendocino Presbyterian Church

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

44831 Main Street

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Mendocino Presbyterian Church is a historic church located in Mendocino, California, known for its unique architecture and community involvement.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for maintenance and community services.

Russian Gulch State Park

8:00 AM–sunset

Park

CA-1

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Russian Gulch State Park offers diverse ocean and forest terrains for camping and hiking, featuring tide pools and a picturesque waterfall.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Mendocino Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Mendocino

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Mendocino Baptist Church in Mendocino, United States, offers a welcoming community with rich history and distinct architectural style, making it a unique landmark.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome to support community activities.

Point Cabrillo Lighthouse Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

45300 Lighthouse Rd

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Point Cabrillo Lighthouse Museum in Mendocino, CA offers insights into maritime history with its restored lighthouse, scenic views, and educational exhibits about local culture and ecology.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for ongoing preservation efforts.

Big River Beach at Mendocino Headlands State Park

Open 24 hours

Park

Mendocino Headlands State Park

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Big River Beach at Mendocino Headlands State Park offers scenic views, sandy shores, and trails amidst coastal flora. Ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife observation.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Parking may require a fee in some areas.

Mendocino Art Center

11:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

45248-45298 Little Lake St

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Mendocino Art Center features exhibitions, a 81-seat theater, and renowned art classes on a tree-filled block in Mendocino, California, enhancing local culture.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

The Kelley House Museum

Th-Su 11:00-15:00

Museum

45007 Albion St

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The Kelley House Museum in Mendocino, USA, features exhibits on early California history and seasonal walking tours. A historical gem from 1861.

Duration: 1-2 hours for tours and exhibits.

Walking tours: $10. Museum entry free, check for special events.

Caspar Curiosities

11:00 AM–5:00 PM

Gallery

15160 Caspar Road (Caspar Street)

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Caspar Curiosities in Mendocino hosts a diverse collection of art and artifacts, reflecting regional culture and history within a coastal setting.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Van Damme State Park

8:00 AM-8:00 PM

Landmark

8001 N Hwy 1

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Van Damme State Park is a large park with a beautiful beach and scenic hiking trails. The Pygmy Forest features tiny trees growing in unique soil conditions, making it a rare spot worth visiting.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Big River

Open 24 hours

Bodies of Water

Mendocino

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Big River is a beautiful estuary located in Mendocino. It is a great spot to watch wildlife and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Ford House Museum

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Museum

45035 Main Street

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Ford House Museum is the mid-19th-century home of Jerome Bursley Ford, the founder of Mendocino. The museum showcases local history and is a valuable resource for visitors seeking to learn about the area's past.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Harvest Market at Mendosa's

8:00 AM-8:00 PM

Store

10501 Lansing Street

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Harvest Market at Mendosa's is a local grocery store that focuses on fresh, organic products. It offers a variety of meats, cheeses, and baked goods, making it a go-to spot for quality meals and snacks.

Duration: approx. 30 minutes

Free

Point Cabrillo Light

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Lighthouse

South Trail

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Point Cabrillo Light is a historic lighthouse located in northern California. It offers stunning ocean views and a chance to learn about its maritime history.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free