Alright road trippers and laid-back adventurers, if you're anywhere near Humboldt County, make sure Arcata Plaza is on your list—and not just for a quick stop. This cozy little hub in downtown Arcata, CA is basically the heartbeat of the city and a one-stop spot for good eats, funky shopping, and chill vibes. Located at 736 F St, Arcata, CA 95521, the Plaza is surrounded by local charm that you just don’t get from big city scenes. Think classic redwood energy mixed with college-town creativity, thanks to its close proximity to Cal Poly Humboldt. Now here’s the deal—having a car makes the whole experience smoother. Parking’s usually easy, and you’ll want to be able to hop between stops without lugging around your treasures.

Start your adventure with breakfast or a midday coffee run at Jitterbean Coffee Co., just off the Plaza. This place gets the caffeine flowing with lattes, mochas, and some of the best locally brewed espresso you’ll ever sip. It’s a small joint but packed with energy—and locals who’ll always give you a friendly nod. Once you’ve got your drink in hand, take a walk around the Plaza itself. On any given day, you might catch a drum circle, a local band, or someone casually juggling fire (seriously, it happens). And if you’re lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, you’ll stumble into the Arcata Farmers Market, a bustling scene of fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music from people who genuinely love what they do.

Hungry? Make your way over to Plaza Grill at 780 7th St, Arcata, CA 95521, perched right above the Jacoby’s Storehouse. This spot is a local legend, offering a laid-back yet classy atmosphere with killer views of the Plaza. Their seafood fettuccine and grilled steaks are straight fire, and their bar serves up some pretty inventive cocktails too. If you’re more in the mood for casual bites, hit Los Bagels nearby at 1061 I St—they’ve got these unique bagels with a Mexican twist, like the “Slug” with jalapeño cheese, and their homemade slug slime (aka jalapeño cilantro sauce) is the stuff of local legend.

Shopping more your thing? You’ve gotta check out The Garden Gate for whimsical gifts, crystals, and eco-conscious goods, or head to Northtown Books, an independent bookstore that feels like stepping into a thoughtful little world. There’s also Vintage Avenger, where you can dig through racks of funky thrift finds and walk out dressed like a rock star from any decade. If you’ve got time and wheels, drive just a few minutes up to the Arcata Community Forest. It’s a redwood sanctuary with hiking trails that weave through peaceful, mossy magic. The forest is literally a 5-minute drive away, and it’s free to explore. Trust me, nothing beats a doughnut-fueled walk through towering trees while your phone finally gets ignored for a while.

Arcata Plaza might look like a sleepy square at first glance, but once you cruise in, you’ll feel the rhythm of this artsy, outdoorsy, come-as-you-are town. It’s the kind of place where locals smile, your coffee’s always fresh, and adventure is just a few blocks—or trails—away. So if you’re planning to explore the Plaza and beyond, don’t forget the key to it all: a good ride. At Humboldt Rental Cars, we’ve got the perfect wheels for your Arcata adventure. Whether you’re cruising the redwood coast, hitting every eatery around the Plaza, or popping into the forest for some fresh air, we’ll make sure you ride in comfort and style. Click here to book now or give us a call at +1 707-335-2010. Let’s hit the road, Humboldt-style!