Ukiah is a beautiful city and the county seat of Mendocino County, California, United States. The city’s 2023 population is approximately 16,800. It is the most populated city in the County.
Ukiah is home to a diverse collection of attractions and tourist magnets, attracting people from various parts of the globe.
The city is renowned for its vineyards, nature, festivals, and museums. It is also home to the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas.
Some of the top places to visit in Ukiah include Montgomery Woods State Reserve, Ukiah Farmers’ Market, Honey Fluff Donuts, Parducci Wine Cellars, and more.
Let’s explore the best things to do in Ukiah, CA.
Things to Do in Ukiah, CA
1. The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas
City of Ten Thousand Buddhas
The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas is known as the United States’ biggest Buddhist monastic community. Exploring this destination is one of the top things to do in Ukiah, CA.
This community was established by Hsuan Hua, a Chan Buddhist monk, in 1974. He played an important role in bringing Chinese Buddhism to the U.S.
You could visit and spend a longer time here attending the dharma sessions while day guests are asked to explore several points within the facility. The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas features a 10,000 Buddhas Jewelry hall with its walls decorated with more than a thousand Buddha images.
There is also the Hall of No Words, housing dinosaurs of Buddha, plus the magnificent Words Hall, which is the place for lectures and meetings.
Address: 4951 Bodhi Way, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
2. Montgomery Woods State Reserve
Montgomery Woods State Reserve
One of the best places to visit in Ukiah, CA, is the incredible Montgomery Woods State Reserve, whether a nature enthusiast or not.
Montgomery Woods State Reserve, encompassing 1,323 acres, was founded in 1945. It was once believed that the trees found in this magnificent woodland were the world’s tallest, featuring a redwood soaring to exactly 367.5 feet.
Presently, the reserve still consists of numerous towering redwoods. Visitors get to explore the beautiful surroundings through a loop trail of about two miles.
There are amenities such as covered picnic areas perfect for lunch or evening hang out, a parking lot, restrooms, and interpretive panels. When visiting, come with a basket packed with food, snacks, and drinks for an incredible picnic and a camera to capture those wonderful moments.
Address: 15825 Orr Springs Road, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
3. Parducci Wine Cellars
Going on a wine-drinking spree is one of the best things to do in Ukiah, CA. Whenever you just feel like relaxing and sipping a delicious glass of wine, Parducci Wine Cellars is the best place for you.
Parducci Wine Cellars has been in the business of producing incredible wines for over eighty-five years. Make sure to visit this establishment to experience the true Ukiah tradition and wine scene.
It is known as the longest-operating Winery in Mendocino County and is an important part of California’s winemaking history. Parducci Wine Cellars is popular for creating amazing Petite Sirah that is unique, condensed, and original.
They also produce other award-winning wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Visit their famous tasting room, which the San Francisco Chronicle themed as “excellent” and listed among the top 11 locales to sip wine.
Address: 501 Parducci Road, Ukiah, CA 95481, United States
4. Lake Mendocino
Are you ready for an entirely different outdoor experience? If yes, visit Lake Mendocino, as it is one of the best places to visit in Ukiah, CA.
Lake Mendocino expands for about 1,922 acres with a 133-foot maximum depth, making it one of the largest reservoirs in Ukiah. The reservoir was established by the Coyote Valley Dam Construction in 1958, offering visitors an assortment of recreational activities.
There is something for everyone, ranging from boating, water skiing, camping, hiking, disc golfing, and fishing. Lake Mendocino features numerous hiking trails, two boat ramps, selected picnic regions, and over three hundred campsites.
This beautiful lake also performs important functions for nearby communities, such as hydroelectric power, flood control, and water conservation.
Address: California, United States
5. Simaine Cellars
Simaine Cellars is a family-owned and operated winery in the heart of the mesmerizing Redwood forest of Northern California.
The Winery officially opened its doors in 2004. They are popular for producing mouthwatering handcrafted wines. As long as you’re within the city, you have to make a stop at this place. Visitors are always welcomed and treated like family.
Simaine Cellars offers you an opportunity to meet with its owners, who are also the managers and winemakers, including trying out their productions straight from the barrel.
While sipping your wine, you could order cheese platters and other light fares to complement it. Don’t forget to check out the nice jewelry collection made by Brenda Simon, one of the owners.
Address: 3001 South State Street #42, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
6. World’s Largest Redwood Tree Service Station
World’s Largest Redwood Tree Service Station
Have you ever heard of the largest Redwood tree service in the world? If your answer is no, you now have the opportunity to see it.
World’s Largest Redwood Tree Service Station was born in the 1930s through an ancient tree that was 1,500 years old.
This was a 250-foot-long tree, which was later cut down in 1936. It was moved to town to be converted into a service station. Residents referred to it as “Stump”.
Despite the fact that it no longer distributes gas, it is still an amazing tourist location. It also features a small museum.
World’s Largest Redwood Tree Service Station offers guests the opportunity to see vintage pumps, newspapers, signs, photographs, registers, and more.
Address: 859 N State St, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
7. Ukiah Farmers’ Market
The Ukiah Farmers’ Market was established in 1977 by local farmers who came together on Saturday mornings to offer the public locally sourced items.
Currently, Ukiah Farmers’ Market is known as one of the County’s biggest farmers’ markets, offering everyone a welcoming atmosphere. This is a market that is based on family and community relationships. Here, everyone seems to know each other.
Ukiah Farmers’ Market offers high-quality and tasty items. It has grown over time, housing crop vendors who offer the freshest seafood.
Several events and activities are held throughout the years at this wonderful farmers’ market, such as music shows, dance exhibitions, and so on. While watching these exciting performances, you can take a bite of their freshly made pastries and a nice beverage.
Address: 735 Vichy Hills Drive, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
8. Ukiah Brewing Company
Ukiah Brewing Company was established in 2000 by the Cooperrider family in Ukiah. It is the first recognized organic brewery in the country. Though the brewery has been through a series of changes in ownership, its goals and objectives have never changed.
The company is concerned and dedicated to serving the people of the community and other areas. They offer a wide range of craft beers made onsite that are composed of distinct tastes and textures, offering high satisfaction.
Ukiah Brewing Company offers a variety of beers, such as Cold IPA, Ukiah Pilsner, Palace Porter, Willists Wit, and more. You can try out some of the brews’ collections in various sizes, such as growlers, crawler cans, and flights.
Address: 102 S. State St, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
9. Observatory Park
A more unique amusement center in Ukiah that offers a different kind of experience is Observatory Park. Observatory Park is a pleasant location for guests of various age groups to have fun, discover, and learn new things.
You can explore the observatory by joining tours as well as participating in any of the several intriguing and enlightening events held at the Park.
Family and friends can gather here just to spend time together or engage in a friendly football or soccer game. For the nature fanatics, you could take time to scrutinize the gorgeous gardens spread throughout the Park.
Observatory Park is also open to those visiting with their pets. You should definitely visit the Park.
Address: 400 Observatory Avenue, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
10. Art Center Ukiah
Are you an art lover searching for what to do in Ukiah? Don’t hesitate to visit Art Center Ukiah. Art Center Ukiah is run and managed by volunteers as a non-profit organization. It is also a component of the Corner Gallery, which is an institution for artists that unites numerous creative persons.
These people gather in the same space housed in a gorgeous building in the downtown area. Art Center Ukiah provides artists with a relaxed space for their craft and hosts open art exhibitions for locals and tourists.
The center features artists who create a variety of art styles and also hosts numerous events through which they can share their art with people. Art Center Ukiah organizes an Art Walk on the first Friday of each month, calling in various artist members with guest artists.
Address: 201 South State Street, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
11. Grace Hudson Museum
Grace Hudson Museum
Grace Hudson Museum is a recognized Historical Landmark in California that is listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places.
The Museum celebrates Grace Carpenter Hudson, an American painter whose career became known because of her Pomo Indian paintings. This was where she dwelled with her husband until their last breath, along with the Sun house adjacent to the Museum.
Grace Hudson Museum commemorates her life and work. It is also home to the Ivan B. and Elvira Hart Gallery, which houses several inks, oils, watercolors, and pen drawings.
However, the Norma and Evert Person Gallery features more of her personal belongings and family-owned properties.
Address: 431 South Main Street, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
12. The Mendocino Tree
Mendocino Tree
The Mendocino Tree is known as the world’s 11th tallest tree, soaring a height of 368.37 feet. You should certainly include seeing it in your itinerary of top things to do in Ukiah, CA.
The path leading towards the tree offers an easy hike of 20 minutes beginning from the parking lot. You will notice the diversity of the flora and fauna in the area when you walk through the path at every mile. The Mendocino Tree would leave you amazed by its beauty, as it is way taller than New York’s Statue of Liberty.
This is an experience you wouldn’t want to miss out on, as it is encompassed by one of the remaining three redwood forests. If you’re up to it, you should also stop by the popular redwoods close by.
Address: 15825 Orr Springs Road, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
13. Stan’s Maple Cafe
Still looking for the perfect way to start off your day? Consider having a delicious breakfast meal at Stan’s Maple Café. Stan’s Maple Café was founded in 1922, known then as the Redwood empire confectionery, serving candy and ice cream.
Over time, it was converted into a cafe with a cozy cocktail lounge, changing its name to Stan’s Maple Café. Many families and friends regularly visit the cafe for a nice meal and a wonderful experience.
Stan’s Maple Café offers amazing breakfast and lunch options that would gladden the heart of every diner. You can order a breakfast quesadilla, huevos rancheros, buttermilk biscuits, traditional oatmeal, sandwiches, and more.
They have a friendly and polite staff crew who go far and beyond to make sure guests are highly satisfied.
Address: 295 South State Street, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
14. Vichy Springs Resort
Vichy Springs Resort has been in existence for over 150 years, providing visitors with a perfect getaway. The resort is located in the center of Mendocino’s wine country and features more than 20 guest rooms, including cottages. It consists of a privately owned 700-acre reserve ideal for numerous exciting outdoor activities.
There are trails for hiking and walking, including a standard-sized swimming pool, champagne baths, mineral baths, and so on. Vichy Springs Resort’s pools are perfect for different kinds of soaking and swimming. They include a hot pool, Chemisal Falls pool, etc.
Those passing the night here can spend longer at Vichy Springs Resort Spa, while day-use visitors may enjoy two to three hours.
Address: Vichy Springs Resort, 2605 Vichy Springs Rd, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
15. Rivino Winery
Rivino Winery is nestled in Mendocino County, right next to the Russian River. It is a casual boutique winery dedicated to converting grapes into delectable wines.
The Winery adopts a distinct process that has been tested and improved over time in a bid to always offer customers the best. From the commencement of the harvest to the last stage of bottling, Rivino plays an important role.
Rivino Winery produces all its wines with its own hands using its grapes, giving it total control over the process of winemaking.
They offer an extensive wine list consisting of local favorites like Cabernet Franc, Pinot Blanc, Portia Scarlet, Sangiovese, Tiger Juice, Boujee Blanc De Blancs, and more.
You should stop by the Winery whenever you can to try out some of their wonderful productions while also enjoying the beautiful view of the place.
Address: 4101 Cox Schrader Road, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
16. Nelson Family Vineyards
Nelson Family Vineyards is a representation of a consistent and dedicated establishment in the city of Ukiah. The family has nurtured beautiful and adorable vineyards for over sixty years.
As you walk through the facility, you will notice designated sections for plum orchards, olive gardens, Bartlett pears, and standing Christmas trees.
Nelson Family Vineyards features a brief trail walk leading to the tasting room starting from the parking lot. The walk offers an interesting experience through the wildflowers, hummingbirds, buzzing bees, finches, and more. The intimacy and comfort of the tasting room will take you aback.
Address: 550 Nelson Ranch Road, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
17. Low Gap Park
Low Gap Park is a unique 80-acre park in Ukiah West Hill. It was proclaimed a park in 1964.
The land on which it stands has been used for several purposes, such as a lumber mill, a dump, and a housing development for mill workers.
You will find remains of two previous purposes it was used for in several areas within the Park. Low Gap Park contains a good number of fun facilities and amenities for visitors of various ages to enjoy.
There is an archery range, a disc golf course, playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms, horseshoe pits, tennis courts, and a dog park. The Park comprises an amphitheater where several concerts, plays, and exciting performances are hosted.
Ukiah’s Low Gap Park is great for family and friends to gather, chat, and have fun. Exploring it is one of the fun things to do in Ukiah, CA.
Address: Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
18. The Ukiah Municipal Swimming Pool
Next on your list of fun things to do in Ukiah, CA, should be an exploration of the Ukiah Municipal Swimming Pool, especially with your dear ones.
The Ukiah Municipal Swimming Pool is an exceptional location to chill, particularly on hot summer days. This is an excellent place for people from different walks of life to meet, splash around, and have a great experience. If you have plans to stay in this city for a long time, you could request a seasonal or daily pass.
You will find pull buoys, kickboards, and lap swim lanes open for lap swimming. There are recreational classes available for interested persons to participate in, such as senior Aqua Aerobics, splash dance Aqua Aerobics, water exercise classes, and more.
Address: 511 Park Blvd., Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
19. Slam Dunk Pizza
If you think for a second that you have tasted the best pizza, you’re in for a big surprise. Slam Dunk Pizza in Ukiah is considered the number one pizza location in the area.
Slam Dunk Pizza offers a wide variety of pizzas, which are freshly made daily throughout the week. They offer several options for lunch and dinner, with vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options. The restaurant also offers a build-your-own pizza option, including Detriot pizza and several other signature pizzas.
Make sure you try out their popular Slam Dunk, Touchdown, and Takedown, including their chicken wings, salads, and sandwiches. Slam Dunk Pizza offers a space for diners to have lots of fun playing in their nicely constructed arcade.
Address: 720 N State St, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
20. Schat’s Bakery
If you’re planning a perfect outing where you get to try out delicious and mind-bubbling treats, visit Schat’s Bakery. Schat’s Bakery has a motto, which is to always offer the most outstanding services combined with quality products.
They are dedicated to making people happy and have been doing this consistently since 1991. However, the history of the family dates back to their early beginnings in Holland in 1893.
In Ukiah, they operate three bakeries. So, it is becoming an essential part of the community. Schat’s Bakery offers customers freshly made baked goods, such as cakes and breads, and breakfast and lunch entrees.
Make sure you don’t forget to try out their signature homemade quiche, which is also prepared onsite on a daily basis.
Address: 113 W. Perkins Street, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
21. Orr Hot Springs
Still wondering what to do in Ukiah, CA? Visit Orr Hot Springs to rejuvenate and relieve yourself of excess stress. Orr Hot Springs is a small but serene and peaceful resort located just along the country route between Mendocino and Ukiah.
This privately owned and operated hot springs resort is rated one of the region’s most outstanding. It offers a good number of choices for incredible therapeutic hot soaking, such as communal tubs, star gazing tubs, trilby springs, and private tubs.
After getting soaked, visitors have a perfect cold pool to cool off. Orr Hot Springs is open based on reservations.
Address: Orr Hot Springs, 13201 Orr Springs Rd, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
22. Patrona Restaurant and Lounge
Patrona Restaurant and Lounge
Beautifully located in the heart of Ukiah is Patrona Restaurant and Lounge, a family-owned and operated business. Patrona Restaurant and Lounge is housed in an ancient building that was formerly used as a grocery store for a long time.
The restaurant offers a friendly and warm atmosphere for visitors to come in and enjoy a nice meal with loved ones. It is beautifully designed with unique brick walls and tables decorated with art items made by local crafters.
Patrona Restaurant and Lounge provides a happy and welcoming staff who go out of their way to make guests feel comfortable. The menu is changed regularly depending on the season. And every meal is fresh, ensuring that customers always get the best.
Address: 130 W. Standley Street, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
23. Honey Fluff
Looking for the perfect treat for your little children or loved ones? Honey Fluff never disappoints when it comes to offering customers the best.
Honey Fluff Donuts offers a wide variety of specialty items with tastes that tickle the tastebuds of every customer. They offer a large selection of delicious treats in several flavors, making sure there is something for everyone.
The restaurant offers the best cake donuts, Apple fritters, Filled donuts, fluffy donuts, donut holes, and more. Most of them are available in various flavors like blueberry, chocolate, buttermilk, vanilla coconut, cinnamon sugar, and more.
Honey Fluff Donuts is open from Monday to Saturday from 5 am-7 pm, Sunday from 6 am-1 pm, and 3 pm-7 pm (you are advised to come in early).
Address: 1296 N State St, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
Plan Your Trip to Ukiah
Ukiah is an extremely beautiful city; it is one of the places in California proclaimed as where everything happens. The city welcomes thousands of visitors from different areas to have fun and experience a perfect vacation. Make sure you try out all the exciting things listed above, as they guarantee an unforgettable experience.