On Main Street in Mendocino, this historic home and museum is a popular tourist attraction that transports visitors back to the 1800s. The home once belonged to Jerome B. Ford, a lumber industry magnate credited with the early development of Mendocino. Today, the Ford House Museum is now on the National Historic Register.

On display throughout the well-preserved home are artifacts and exhibits detailing what life was like in Mendocino a century ago, including a model replica of the city circa the 1890s. Other exhibits detail the lumber and logging industry that built Mendocino, and the original townsfolks that gave the village its initial charm.

The Ford Museum is open seven days a week and doubles as the Mendocino Visitor Center. More information about the city, including local events and seasonal attractions, are available through exhibits and the friendly staff. The Ford House Museum also sits on the inland edge of Mendocino Headlands State Park, featuring a sprawling bluff trail buffering the city from the ocean.

Hours: Open 365 days a year, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Step back in time for a magical ride through the redwoods on the world-famous Skunk Train. Since 1885 the historic Skunk has made its way through old-growth redwood groves, over scenic trestle bridges, through spectacular tunnels, and into the heart of the Noyo River canyon. Today’s riders enjoy the same pristine views that have remained largely unchanged for well over a century.

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (MCBG) is a premier example of ornamental horticulture, nestled along Northern California’s rugged coastline. Located on the ancestral lands of the Northern Pomo peoples—past, present, and future— the Gardens span 47 breathtaking acres between historic Highway 1 and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its stunning plant collections, rich history, and commitment to conservation, MCBG is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, gardeners, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

This State Historic Park occupies a spectacular headland extending out into the Pacific. There is a parking area inside the gate off Point Cabrillo Drive, adjacent to the restored Kearn farmhouse. Enjoy the half mile downhill walk to the Light Station buildings. Note: there is parking for disabled persons in front of and behind the 1st Assistant Lightkeeper’s House (the first residence) at the bottom of the hill.

There are two paths to the Station. The dirt path begins at the north end of the parking lot and takes you through the introduced grassland and coastal prairie. The paved access road to the south is an easier walk. Please use established trails and keep dogs leashed and under control at all times.

As you stroll down this road, the Point Cabrillo Light Station is arrayed before you. The Light Station includes:

... our Lighthouse, which is an active duty Aid to Navigation, containing the original Chance Brothers classic 3rd order Fresnel lens

... three restored Lightkeeper homes; the first house is a period museum of a lightkeeper’s house in the 1930s; the other two houses are comfortable vacation rental homes

the restored Blacksmith & Carpentry Shop, which houses the Marine Science Exhibit with its 240 gallon saltwater aquarium

... three restored storage buildings behind the residences; two of these have been converted to lovely vacation rental cottages, the other is a public restroom

The main floor of the Lighthouse, the 1st Assistant Lightkeeper’s House and the Marine Science Exhibit are open to the public from 11am to 4pm year-round. The State Historic Park is open from sunrise to sunset daily. The main floor of the Lighthouse is dog-friendly.

Access to Glass Beach is from a wide path starting from the parking area on Glass Beach Road a couple blocks west of Highway 1 on West Elm Street. The lot is signed Noyo Headlands Park and is managed by the city although most of this land is part of MacKerricher State Park.

If you find glass on the beach, leave it there, so it can be there for years to come for others to enjoy.