Things To Do
in Ukiah
Ukiah sits in the heart of Mendocino County in Northern California, surrounded by vineyards and forests. As the county seat, it's a friendly hub for farm-to-table dining, arts, and outdoor adventures. Its historic downtown features preserved storefronts and a relaxed, small-town vibe.
From here, you can easily reach redwood groves, state parks, and the nearby wine country for day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a handcrafted espresso from The Pour House and head to the Ukiah River Trail as the sun rises over the water. The winding path takes you through oak woodlands and lush riparian habitat alive with birdsong. A brisk walk or gentle jog provides a refreshing and immersive introduction to Mendocino County’s natural beauty.
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch from Grace’s Table Deli under a towering sycamore by the riverbank. Watch kayakers drift lazily downstream and keep an eye out for trout near shallow pools. Spend some time sketching or journaling in your nature journal beneath the dappled light of the canopy.
Dine at Patrona Restaurant Kitchen + Bar for a farm-to-table meal featuring local produce and Mendocino County wine. As dusk falls, take an easy stroll back along the trail to experience the river under a blanket of stars. The quiet of the night punctuated by frogs and owls creates an enchanting finale to your first day.
Begin with a hearty breakfast at Egghead’s Restaurant before making your way to the Grace Hudson Museum. Explore exhibits showcasing local Pomo art, world-renowned photography, and the historic Sun House. Curator-led tours reveal fascinating insights into early 20th-century Northern California life.
Wander downtown Ukiah to browse independent boutiques and art galleries. Pop into Brickerville Fudge for a sweet treat before mingling with friendly shop owners. Admire street murals that depict the town’s railroad and timber heritage.
Reserve a tasting flight at the Mendocino Brewing Company Taproom and sample handcrafted ales. Enjoy casual pub fare while catching live acoustic music on their patio. Cap the night with a leisurely walk down Main Street, absorbing the dim glow of vintage street lamps.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-6 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3.50-5.00 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $100-170 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly estimate) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic wine country and redwood-adjacent scenery
- Relaxed small-town vibe with farm-to-table dining
- Limited nightlife and public transit
- Rural road travel can be slower and less convenient
Places to Visit in Ukiah
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph well-preserved storefronts and classic street scenes in Ukiah’s downtown core.
A pleasant spot for architectural details and garden compositions near artistic exhibits.
Sunrise or sunset shots along the lake with water, trees, and boats.
Scenic river edges with reflections, bridges, and seasonal foliage.
Food in Ukiah
Ukiah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Local salmon fillet finished with bright citrus and herbs, typically served with seasonal vegetables.
Must-Try!
Tender beef short ribs braised with regional Pinot Noir, often paired with root vegetables.
Zucchini boats filled with seasonal vegetables, grains, and local cheese when available.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, flowers, and prepared foods from local farms.
A lively row of food trucks and stalls featuring tacos, tamales, and artisanal snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask permission when photographing people or private spaces; be mindful of residential areas and quiet neighborhoods.
In rural areas, service may be slower; a patient, friendly approach is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Ukiah
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. practice: 15-20% at dining, with small extra for exceptional service; tip guides and bartenders as you would elsewhere.
Major credit cards accepted widely; cash is still useful at markets and smaller vendors; mobile wallets are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with dry conditions; carry water, use sun protection, and plan winery trips for shade; evenings can be cool.
Mild days with harvest atmosphere; perfect for wine tours and colorful foliage in vineyards.
Cool and wet; expect rain and occasional storms; trails can be muddy, pack waterproof gear.
Mild with blooming flowers and active wildlife; a great time for outdoor hikes and photography.
Ukiah at Night
Hiking in Ukiah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient redwood groves and scenic trails within a short drive from Ukiah.
Rugged terrain with mountain views and multiple trail options.
Loop trails around the lake with water views and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Ukiah by plane.
A small regional airport serving private and charter flights; few commercial services.
Major regional airport near Santa Rosa; served by several national carriers; accessible by road from Ukiah.
Large international airport offering extensive domestic and international flights; longer drive but broad options.
Major international hub accessible via a longer drive or connecting flight; wide range of destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic in the area, with other groups including Hispanic/Latino, Native American, and Asian communities.
A significant portion of residents contributing to the multicultural community.
A historical presence in the region with contributing communities.
Smaller but present communities contributing to local diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local sport coast-to-coast in schools, clubs, and rec leagues.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games and tournaments.
Due to nearby redwood forests and hills, outdoor fitness is prevalent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ukiah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer vegetarian mains; look for veggie bowls, salads, and vegetable-forward dishes; at markets choose seasonal produce and legumes.