Need a peaceful wine-country escape or a laid-back NorCal retreat? Head to Ukiah! Nestled in the heart of Mendocino County, Ukiah offers warm hospitality, beautiful vineyards, and relaxing hot springs. Whether you’re tasting Zinfandel, hiking redwood trails, or exploring local art, Ukiah blends rustic charm with easygoing vibes.
Ukiah, CA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike at Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve – Walk among towering old-growth redwoods in a tranquil, hidden grove.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Grace Hudson Museum – Discover Native American heritage and early California art in a historic artist’s home.
- For Shoppers: Explore downtown Ukiah – Browse indie bookstores, local boutiques, and weekend farmers markets on charming tree-lined streets.
- For Couples: Soak in Vichy Springs – Relax in naturally warm, carbonated mineral baths used for over 150 years.
- For Families: Spend a day at Todd Grove Park – Enjoy shaded playgrounds, picnic spots, and a seasonal pool perfect for kids.
Best Time to Visit Ukiah, CA
The best time to visit Ukiah is from late spring through early fall (May to October). These months offer sunny weather ideal for wine tasting, hiking, and outdoor festivals. Fall harvest season (September–October) is especially scenic in Mendocino wine country.
How to Get to Ukiah, CA
- If you are traveling by car: Ukiah is located off US-101, about 2 hours north of San Francisco and 1 hour from the Sonoma wine region.
- By Train: While there is no direct train to Ukiah, Amtrak service to nearby Santa Rosa or Cloverdale offers transfer options by car or bus.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS), about 1 hour and 15 minutes away.
Where to Stay in Ukiah, CA
- Recommended for Families: Comfort Inn & Suites Ukiah – Convenient location with free breakfast and a pool for relaxing after a day of exploring.
- For Couples: Vichy Springs Resort – Historic 19th-century resort with mineral springs, hiking trails, and romantic ambiance.
- For Budget Travelers: Motel 6 Ukiah – Affordable and centrally located with basic amenities and easy highway access.
Best Things to Do in Ukiah, CA
1. Hike Among Towering Redwoods at Montgomery Woods State Reserve
Rating: ★★★★★
The Montgomery Woods State Reserve was established in 1945 and spans nearly 1,323 acres. People once believed that the trees in this majestic woodland were the tallest in the world, specifically a remarkable redwood which towers at 367.5 feet. Though it’s been proven otherwise, the reserve is still home to some towering groves of coast redwoods. Visitors can explore the gorgeous surrounding via the two-mile-long loop trail which can take less than two hours to complete. Amenities that can be found along the way include shaded picnic areas, interpretive panels along the way, restrooms, and a parking area.
15825 Orr Springs Road, Ukiah, CA 95482, Phone: 707-937-5804
2. Savor Sustainable Wines with a Legacy at Parducci Wine Cellars
Boasting of more than 85 years of tradition and crafting amazing wines, Parducci Wine Cellars is a must-visit if you’re planning on exploring Ukiah’s wine scene. It is the longest-running winery in Mendocino County and is a cornerstone of California winemaking. They’re renowned for producing excellent petite sirah that is bold, focused, and authentic. Other award-winning craft wines include the True Grit RESERVE Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Their tasting room has been called “excellent” by the San Francisco Chronicle and is mentioned in Wine Enthusiast’s list of ‘11 Spots to Sip Wine and Soak Up Fall Views’. Go on a historic 30-minute guided tour through the Redwood Barrel Room and their wine-aging cellar to get a behind-the-scenes view of this legendary vineyard and winery.
501 Parducci Road, Ukiah, CA 95481, Phone: 800-362-9463
3. Explore Native American Art and History at the Grace Hudson Museum
Identified as a California Historical Landmark and on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the Grace Hudson Museum is dedicated to American painter Grace Carpenter Hudson, whose artistic career was highlighted by her series of paintings of the Pomo Indians. The museum, as well as the adjacent Sun House where Hudson and her husband lived until they passed, are a dedication to her life and work. The Ivan B. and Elvira Hart Gallery is filled with numerous watercolors, oils, pen and ink drawings, and more which chronicle Hudson’s professional development. The Norma and Evert Person Gallery is more personal and has several intimate belongings of Hudson and her family.
431 South Main Street, Ukiah, CA 95482
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
4. If You Seek Serenity and Reflection, Visit the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas
The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas is the largest Buddhist monastic community in the United States. It was founded in 1974 by Hsuan Hua, a monk of Chan Buddhism who was vital in introducing Chinese Buddhism to the United States. Though you can stay there for extended visits to attend dharma sessions and meditate, day visitors are invited to explore the many points of interest within the complex. Sites that you should see include the Jeweled Hall of 10,000 Buddhas where the walls are adorned with over 10,000 images of the Buddha, the Hall of No Words that contains relics of the Buddha, and the Wonderful Words Hall which is the site for daily gatherings and lectures.
4951 Bodhi Way, Ukiah, CA 95482
5. Sip Estate-Grown Wines in a Relaxed Setting at RIVINO Winery
Located beside the Russian River in Mendocino County, RIVINO Winery is a boutique winery that transforms grapes to wines using an intricate process that has been perfected over the years. RIVINO plays a role at every step, from the beginning of harvest to the end of bottling. The family winery handcrafts all of their wines with their very own grapes, letting them have complete control in the wine making process. Their wine list is endless, featuring patron favorites such as Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Portia Scarlet, Amber Lux, Tiger Juice, and Boujee Blanc De Blancs.
4101 Cox Schrader Road, Ukiah, CA 95482, Phone: 707-293-4262
6. Paddle, Hike, and Relax by the Shores of Lake Mendocino
With a surface area of 1,922 acres and a maximum depth of 133 feet, Lake Mendocino is one of Ukiah’s largest reservoirs. The body of water was formed in 1958 by the construction of the Coyote Valley Dam. Visitors of all ages can enjoy several recreational activities at the lake and the surrounding area including hiking, camping, fishing, water skiing, boating, and disc golf. Amenities which will make your stay more pleasant include several hiking trails, designated picnic areas, two boat ramps, and over 300 campsites, including boat-in only sites. In addition to the fun aspect, the lake also serves several other purposes for the surrounding community including flood control, hydroelectric power, and water conservation.
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
7. Stand in Awe Beneath the Majestic Mendocino Tree
Towering at 368.37 feet, The Mendocino Tree is the 11th tallest tree in the world. Getting to the tree involves an easy, twenty-minute hike from the parking lot. At less than a mile each way, you’ll pass through much of the area’s diverse flora and fauna getting to the tree. Once there, you’ll be stunned by the gorgeous sight before you. The coast redwood is magnificent, and just to give you a little comparison, the tree is a whole five stories taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York. Surrounded by one of the last three redwood tree forests in the world, the entire experience will leave you in awe. Be sure to also visit other famous redwoods nearby such as the Norman J. Hendry and the Montgomery Giant.
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve: 15825 Orr Springs Road, Ukiah, CA 95482, Phone: 707-937-5804
8. Snap a Quirky Roadside Photo at the World's Largest Redwood Tree Service Station
In the 1930s there was a spike of ancient wood service stations and the World's Largest Redwood Tree Service Station in Ukiah happens to be the largest in the world. The service station was constructed using a 1,500-year-old tree from a nearby coastal redwood forest. This tree was 250 feet tall and 81 feet in circumference before it was chopped down in 1936 and transported to the town to be assembled into a service station that locals lovingly call “the Stump”. Though it no longer dispenses gas, it is a popular tourist attraction and houses a small self-guided museum. Visitors will be able to see the vintage pumps under its canopy, old oil cans, assorted signs, an old cash register, historical photographs and newspaper clippings, and other memorabilia.
9. Shop Fresh Produce and Local Treats at the Ukiah Farmers’ Market
The Ukiah Farmers’ Market was created by local farmers in 1977. They gathered every Saturday morning, rain or shine, to share their locally grown produce with the residents and visitors of the community. The tradition continues today, and though it is one of the largest farmer’s markets in the county, there’s a sense of family and community. You’ll find that everyone knows each other, and the market almost resembles a family reunion. In addition to buying delicious, wholesome produce, the market has expanded over the years and houses vendors from the coast who bring fresh seafood to Ukiah. There are many activities and events held there throughout the year including musical performances and other acts - you can enjoy these along with freshly-baked pastries and refreshing beverages every Saturday morning in Ukiah.
399-359 S School St, Ukiah, CA 95482, Phone: 707-462-7377
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