Perhaps the most delightful way to experience the Victorian seaport of Old Town Eureka is by horse-drawn carriage. Fortunately, that's easily enough done. Brendan Fearon, who hails from the Victorian seaport of Liverpool, England, will happily take you on a tour of Old Town in his gloriously restored vis-à-vis (French for the “face-to-face” seats) carriage, pulled by either Jessie or Pearl, his Percheron draft horses. Carriage rides are offered year-round, but it's a good idea to call ahead for an appointment during winter.
Brendan has been driving carriages for three decades, and is as much a part of the experience as the horse, the carriage and Old Town itself. Witty and articulate, he is a veritable living guidebook. As you travel in and around the waterfront and past delightful old Victorians with ornate fronts at speeds of up to three miles per hour, Brendan will point out landmarks and relate tales of the history and culture of the area. This is sightseeing at its best, and an experience you won't want to miss.
Carriage rides are also available outside of Eureka. Thanks to his trailer, Brendan can transport horse and carriage to special events from Trinidad to Garberville.
WHERE: 2nd and F Streets at Old Town Square, Old Town Eureka.
MORE INFO: 646-591-2058, OldTownCarriageCo.com, or on Facebook.
