Ukiah is the Mendocino County seat and its largest city. First settled in 1856, Ukiah began to grow in 1889 with the arrival of the railroad. Now its population is approximately 16,000, while that of the greater Ukiah area numbers about 35,000. Framed in a deep mountain valley, Ukiah is a beautiful destination that combines a wealth of natural resources with an independent character. Off the beaten path, Ukiah’s unique setting, spirit and people inspire you to explore further.
For those seeking to escape urban angst and experience life in a more relaxed environment, Ukiah offers a getaway rich with activity, creativity and small town charm. With countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, good food and drink, year-round events and cultural attractions, Ukiah has something for everyone. And, unlike any city named anything else, its name spelled backwards is “haiku.”
Things to Do
Lake Mendocino is 5 miles north of Ukiah on Hwy 20, east of Hwy 101. Visitors to the lake enjoy wake boarding, water skiing, jet skiing, camping and fishing for bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish. Nearby recreational areas include Low Gap Regional County Park, Mill Creek County Park, Cow Mountain Recreation Area and Montgomery Woods State Reserve. There are city parks within Ukiah with playgrounds, picnic areas and other services. Todd Grove Park, located on Park Blvd., features a public swimming pool, playground and picnic areas amid tall redwoods.
For musical enjoyment, Ukiah offers Mendocino Ballet, Ukiah Civic Light Opera, Ukiah Community Concert Association, Ukiah Symphony and the Ukiah Players Theatre. Mendocino College Center Theater also has a 400-seat theater in its state-of-the-art performing arts facility. Parducci Wine Cellars and Rivino Winery offer live music in the summer.
