A visit to the Victorian Village of Ferndale is like a stroll through the past: the entire Main Street has been designated a National Register Historic District due to its finely preserved commercial and residential buildings. Here you can explore the fascinating array of old-fashioned mercantiles, antique stores, art galleries, and specialty shops. You can hear the ringing of the blacksmith’s hammer, talk with friendly people and watch fresh candy being dipped by hand to whet your appetite for a fine dinner and an evening of theater. Ferndale is one of Humboldt County’s premier shopping and dining destinations.
Things to Do
Many visitors are surprised to discover that the tiny town of Ferndale has a year-round theater season. The Ferndale Repertory Theatre has pleased area audiences for 30 years in its intimate downtown venue, where it features quality live entertainment that engages, educates and excites. Ferndale’s Russ Park is 105 acres of lush coastal habitat. Sitka spruce, Douglas fir and grand fir are the dominant conifers; deciduous trees include red alder and maple. Dozens of bird species inhabit the park, including the varied thrush, winter wren, gray jay, golden crowned kinglet and the red-shafted flicker. The Kinetic Grand Championship is a three-day race from Arcata to Ferndale starring human-powered, amphibious, all-terrain works of art. Held every Memorial Day Weekend, on the last day the kinetic racers cross the finish line on Ferndale’s historic Main Street. On the first Sunday of December, locals and visitors gather to turn on the lights of the tallest living Christmas tree in the U.S.
- Historic Ferndale Cemetery
- Strolling the Victorian Village of Ferndale
- Centerville County Park and Beach
- Ferndale Arts Gallery
- Centerville County Park and Beach
- Russ Park, 105 acres of closed-canopy forest bird sanctuary
- Kinetic Grand Championship in May
- Humboldt County fair in August
