11 Best Things to Do in Woodland, California

© Reiffs Gas Station Museum

Best known for its collection of antique gas pumps, gas station signs, and other car culture memorabilia, many of the items you’ll see at Reiffs Gas Station Museum date back to before the 1960s. The museum started out as the personal collection of Mark Reiff and the museum is now housed in what was once his home. You can spend hours exploring the 10,000 square feet exhibit space filled with interesting displays of the collection. Some of the most unique exhibits are those of a movie theater, a diner, and a 1956 Chevy tow truck. The museum also has many sceneries within the museum which car owners can photograph their vintage cars in front of for a fun and memorable photoshoot.

52 Jefferson Street, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-666-1758

© Woodland Opera House Theatre

The Woodland Opera House Theatre originally opened in 1885 but was tragically burned down, along with much of downtown Woodland, in 1892. It was then rebuilt with some of the remaining foundations and bricks on the very same site in 1896. It quickly became a popular gathering place for Woodland’s elite, having had over 300 touring companies grace its stage. The opera house shut down again in 1913 with the encroachment of motion pictures but was restored to its former glory in 1981. Today, visitors can see a number of shows and other events in the historic theatre. If you happen to be there for an extended period of time, take part in one of the many classes and educational programs, each of which is focused on a different course of study.

340 2nd Street, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-666-9617

© California Agriculture Museum

Home to hundreds of California agricultural artifacts and unique antique tractors, the California Agriculture Museum is a fun place to spend the day with your family. You are more than welcome to go on a self-guided or docent-led tour through the rows and rows of exhibits. You’ll be able to see and learn a lot during your visit there; some of the features include early barns and livestock, a bus collection from the 1920s and 1930s, a look into how California agriculture fed the world in the 1800s, a blacksmith shop, and a behind-the-scenes look into how to make moonshine.

1962 Hays Lane, Woodland, CA 95776, Phone: 530-666-9700

© Velocity Island Park

Velocity Island Park is an oasis of adventure and one of the highest-rated water parks in northern California. You can partake in a number of thrilling, impressive activities in a safe and enjoyable environment no matter your age or skill level. Some of these fun things are their floating obstacle course, stand-up paddle boarding, wakeboarding, and beach volleyball. The park also offers amenities and features such as a private beach, a bar, lakeside dining, and private event hosting. You can choose your adventure and go as far as you’d like in the super friendly environment at Velocity Island Park.

755 North East Street, Woodland, CA 95776, Phone: 530-723-6885

© France/stock.adobe.com

The Woodland Public Library and Rose Garden is the oldest and one of the last functioning Carnegie-funded libraries in the state of California. The library is a contributing property to the U.S. Historic District and is recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The library began in 1874 through a number of book donations made by the community and really took off when it received a $10,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie in 1903. Today, visitors are invited to explore the historic property and garden or take part in one of their many programs and events.

250 1st Avenue, Woodland, CA 95695

© Yolo County Historical Museum

The Yolo County Historical Museum preserves and protects the historical culture and heritage of Yolo County. The displays tell the story of the community, it’s buildings, people, and events which shaped it into the place it is today. The museum has been open to the public for over twenty-five years and is housed in the iconic Gibson Home - the only historic home in Yolo County that is open to the public. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum is a wonderful place to explore with the entire family. The professionals at the museum are more than happy to share their expertise with you during a scheduled, docent-led tour.

512 Gibson Road, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-666-1045

© The Bike Garage

The Bike Garage is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2011 to educate people about cycling. They focus on encouraging people of all ages to ride their bikes while reducing car trips and increasing exercise. The Bike Garage is operated by volunteers who can teach you how to ride a bike, help you purchase a new or used bike that is right for you, or pair you with a volunteer mechanic that can repair your bike if necessary. The garage also takes part in several community events like leadership bike rides, free bike clinics, and after school and summer camp programs.

Hays Street & 1st Street, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-753-1125

© Dead Cat Alley

Dead Cat Alley is one of Woodland’s most unique places. As you walk through the neighborhood, you’ll find at least thirteen cats hanging around at the top of the surrounding buildings. This was a part of the Woodland Art Center’s Nine Lives Project and is the work of local artist Gary Dinnen. The walk is less than a quarter-mile long and will take you through the orange tabby cat near Chinatown and other local businesses and establishments. Going on an adventure to spot all of the cats can be a really fun and unique thing to do while also giving you an opportunity to meet the people and visit the places that really give Woodland its charm.

© Minerva Studio/stock.adobe.com

The Kitchen428 Restaurant is an inviting local establishment which is housed in the historic Jackson Building in Downtown Woodland. The restaurant has a sophisticated array of farm-to-table dining options which you can accompany with one of their famed craft beers and cocktails. The menu is constantly changing to ensure that incorporate as many fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables into their offerings as possible. Their open for lunch and dinner throughout the week and their menu is filled with patron favorites that are full of flavor. Popular items in their menu are the herb crusted pork chop, the rosemary chicken breast, and the vegan sesame ginger which is a toss of rice noodles, red cabbage, bell peppers, and chickpeas.

428 1st Street, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-661-0428

© Maria's Cantina

Maria’s Cantina is the place to go when you’re in Woodland and in the mood for delicious, authentic Mexican food. The restaurant’s menu comprises an array of recipes which have been collected and refined over the years. Many of their dishes are made with local ingredients and are guaranteed fresh as they are made from scratch daily. Blending old world traditions with new world flavors, the Cantina has quickly gained popularity in the community. You can feast on favorites such as their chile cilantro lime shrimp, the steak ranchera, and roasted turkey. Every Tuesday is Taco Tuesday, a tradition they’ve kept alive since 2011.

306 6th Street, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-402-1540

© Morgan's on Main

Situated in the center of Yolo County, the cuisine at Morgan’s on Main reflects the charm, spirit, and warmth of the surrounding community. It is a place that local residents often head to for a delicious and nutritious meal after a long day, a romantic dinner with a loved one, or a celebration with friends and family. You’re guaranteed more than a meal as dining at Morgan’s on Main is an incomparable culinary experience. Be sure to try out their famous chicken and waffle sticks, the signature steaks, or share plates of devilled eggs or candied bacon with spicy chicharron con carne.

614 Main Street, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-402-1275