At the heart of Arcata, the Arcata Plaza serves as the city's gathering place, surrounded by historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, and cafés. Whether you're browsing the weekly farmers' market, attending a community festival, or simply soaking up the small-town atmosphere, the plaza offers a perfect introduction to this vibrant North Coast community.
Arcata History
Arcata, a Humboldt County college town of almost 18,000, may be nicknamed “Hippie Haven,” but its official name was a more somber “Union” when it was settled in 1850. Those pioneers built up this plaza, mostly using wood for construction, but August Jacoby thought to build his store out of brick and stone. As a result, in the wake of an 1875 fire that destroyed dozens of the town’s buildings and businesses, his is the only original building left today. More recent structures, though, are still about 100 years old.
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Things to Do Around Arcata Plaza
That kind of history means there’s lots to see on a stroll around the plaza. The Hotel Arcata dates to 1915; it was once called “Sportsman’s Headquarters” and played host to those to who traveled by rail or steamer. Just off the plaza is the Minor Theatre; opened in 1914, it’s one of the oldest structures in the U.S. built for the sole purpose of showing movies. Don’t leave without debating the merits of slain U.S. President William McKinley—and be sure to do so in front of his 8-foot-tall bronze statue in the plaza, erected in 1906.
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Explore Jacoby’s Storehouse
Check out August Jacoby’s legacy, the restored Jacoby’s Storehouse, where several stories of shops, eateries, and gathering spaces make the landmark a destination in its own right. Browse gifts, tea wares, jewelry, and other globally inspired finds at All Under Heaven, then head upstairs to the longtime favorite Plaza Grill, where a menu filled with such comfort food items as smashburgers, meatloaf, tacos, and pastas has something for everyone for a relaxed dinner overlooking the plaza.
The building's central atrium is also a pleasant place to pause with a coffee, snack, or ice cream while taking in the bustle of downtown Arcata. Today, in addition to shops, the fully restored landmark houses a mix of restaurants, retail shops, offices, and other local businesses, making it one of the Plaza's liveliest hubs.
Arcata Plaza Farmers’ Market
Open every Saturday, year-round, rain or shine, the Arcata Plaza Farmers’ Market is one of the largest in Humboldt County, as well as one of the longest-running, having been started in 1978. Keep an eye out for Dungeness crab (when in season, winter through early spring) and don’t be surprised to encounter hula hoopers and group tai-chi practioners, as well as occasional events like pumpkin and salsa competitions and produce tastings.
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Where to Stay Near Arcata Plaza
You can still stay at the Hotel Arcata, though prices have gone up since its 1915 rate of $1/night. Even if you don’t stay there, be sure to check out the lobby’s cool historic decor. Another option that’s near the Plaza is The Front Porch Inn, which features private outdoor soaking tubs and cedar saunas. Book a room in either hotel, then mix past and present: Catch the latest Hollywood releases at the aforementioned Minor Theatre, which has been restored and still shows films today.
