Arcata's town square, called The Plaza, is big on sophisticated shops and restaurants; the central square is a convenient hangout for college students and retired hippies.

The local college, Humboldt State University (HSU) is noted for its education and biological science programs. Its...

Arcata's town square, called The Plaza, is big on sophisticated shops and restaurants; the central square is a convenient hangout for college students and retired hippies.

The local college, Humboldt State University (HSU) is noted for its education and biological science programs. Its campus is also beautiful and connects to the scenic Redwood Park.

Another local attraction (if anything can be called that in this off-the-beaten-path town) is the Arcata Marsh, a great bird-watching spot which, in typically environmentally-minded Arcata style, is also an environmentally friendly wastewater treatment facility. If you have the chance to be in Humboldt on Memorial Day weekend, check out the Kinetic Sculpture Race, a race of wacky human-powered vehicles that runs from Arcata to Ferndale over the three-day weekend.

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