Ukiah, Calistoga, Ca

A three-day adventure in Ukiah and Calistoga sounds delightful, especially with a focus on museums and historical points of interest. Let’s dive into your itinerary!

Day 1: Exploring Ukiah

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite like The Breakfast Café. Their pancakes and omelets are a must-try!
• Visit the Grace Hudson Museum: After breakfast, head over to the Grace Hudson Museum. This gem showcases the life and work of the artist Grace Hudson, who beautifully captured the Native American culture of the area. The museum also features local history exhibits.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Ukiah Brewing Company: Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Ukiah Brewing Company, where you can savor some local craft beer and tasty pub fare.
• Explore the Mendocino County Museum: After lunch, make your way to the Mendocino County Museum. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on the region’s history, including its Native American heritage, the Gold Rush, and the lumber industry.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Treat yourself to dinner at Sushi Taka for some fresh sushi or Raven’s Restaurant for a more upscale dining experience.
• Stroll through Downtown Ukiah: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through downtown Ukiah. The historic buildings and charming shops make for a lovely evening ambiance.

Day 2: Calistoga and Wine Country

Morning:

• Drive to Calistoga: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Calistoga (about 30 minutes from Ukiah). Enjoy the beautiful Napa Valley views along the way.
• Visit the Sharpsteen Museum: Start your Calistoga adventure at the Sharpsteen Museum. This small but informative museum showcases the history of Calistoga and the surrounding area, including its hot springs and the development of the wine industry.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Calistoga Kitchen: Grab a bite at Calistoga Kitchen, where you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced dishes.
• Explore Old Faithful Geyser of California: After lunch, visit the Old Faithful Geyser. While it’s not a museum, it’s a historical landmark that has been attracting visitors for over a century. The geyser erupts every 30 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of chances to see it in action!

Evening:

• Dinner at Solbar: Treat yourself to a fantastic dinner at Solbar, located at the Solage Resort. The menu features seasonal ingredients and a great selection of wines.
• Relax at a Spa: If you’re up for it, consider booking a spa treatment at one of Calistoga’s famous hot springs resorts to unwind after a day of exploration.

Day 3: More of Ukiah and Surroundings

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Diner: Start your day with breakfast at Denny’s or The Coffee Pot, both of which offer hearty options to fuel your day.
• Visit the Ukiah Valley Historical Society: Head to the Ukiah Valley Historical Society, where you can learn more about the local history through various exhibits and artifacts.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Enjoy lunch at Pine Street Café, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious sandwiches.
• Explore the Historic Courthouse: After lunch, visit the Mendocino County Courthouse, a beautiful historic building with stunning architecture. Take some time to explore the grounds and snap some photos!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Favorite: For your final dinner, consider The Urban Cowgirl, which offers a unique blend of American and Southwestern cuisine.
• Evening Walk at Lake Mendocino: If you have time, take a relaxing evening walk at Lake Mendocino. The sunset views are absolutely breathtaking and a perfect way to wrap up your trip!

Tips:

• Make sure to check the opening hours of the museums and restaurants, as they can vary.
• Consider booking any spa treatments or special dining experiences in advance to ensure availability.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time exploring Ukiah and Calistoga! Enjoy your trip! 🌟