Mendocino Coast Model Railroad & Historical Society
Mendocino Coast Model Railroad & Historical Society
Fun for the whole family! Visit the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad and step back in time into Fort Bragg history. Located just behind the Skunk Train main building, admission is free with train tickets, otherwise admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children.
Mendocino Coast Model Railroad & Historical Society
Downtown Fort Bragg
Behind the Skunk Train Railway Station
WEBSITE
Otis R. Johnson Park
Otis R. Johnson Park
Family friendly walking trails through the redwoods with picnic tables and a creek.
Otis R. Johnson Park
Enter at the east end of Laurel Street
Bainbridge Park
Bainbridge Park
Bainbridge Park, remodeled in spring of 2026, features a playground, sport courts, and indoor and outdoor fields. Located just a few blocks from downtown Fort Bragg, its a great place to meet friends for a game or take the kids to run around and blow off steam.
Bainbridge Park
East Laurel Street between Harrison and Whipple Streets
Family Adventures Start in Fort Bragg
Family Adventures Start in Fort Bragg
Adventure comes naturally in Fort Bragg. Families can search for sea glass, explore redwood trails, visit marine science exhibits, kayak the Noyo River, and watch for whales along the coast. From hands-on fun to scenic outdoor escapes, Fort Bragg is filled with memorable experiences for kids and grown-ups alike.
1. Explore Glass Beach and the Sea Glass Museum
One of Fort Bragg’s most iconic stops, Glass Beach is a must for families who love treasure-hunt energy and ocean views. Pair it with the Sea Glass Museum, where kids can learn how sea glass is made and see colorful collections that bring local history to life.
One of Fort Bragg’s most iconic stops, Glass Beach is a must for families who love treasure-hunt energy and ocean views. Pair it with the Sea Glass Museum, where kids can learn how sea glass is made and see colorful collections that bring local history to life.
2. Make a Splash at the CV Starr Center
The CV Starr Center is a great family stop for active kids, with swimming, recreation, and indoor fun that’s perfect for any weather. It’s an easy way to mix in playtime and burn off energy between sightseeing adventures. There’s also a dog park for the furry family members!
The CV Starr Center is a great family stop for active kids, with swimming, recreation, and indoor fun that’s perfect for any weather. It’s an easy way to mix in playtime and burn off energy between sightseeing adventures. There’s also a dog park for the furry family members!
3. Hunt for Banana Slugs at Otis R. Johnson Park
Turn a walk through the redwoods into a mini scavenger hunt at Otis R. Johnson Park, where kids can search for banana slugs beneath the forest canopy. The shady trails and peaceful setting make it a fun and easy nature outing for the whole family.
4. Discover the Wild Beauty of MacKerricher State Park
MacKerricher State Park offers wide-open coastal scenery, easy trails, tidepool fun, and the chance to spot seals and seabirds. It’s a wonderful place for families to picnic, explore, and experience Fort Bragg’s natural beauty up close.
5. Noyo Center for Marine Science
With both its Downtown and Crow’s Nest locations, the Noyo Center for Marine Science gives families an engaging look at the ocean world that defines the Mendocino Coast. Kids can enjoy interactive learning, marine life exhibits, and educational experiences that make science feel like an adventure.
With both its Downtown and Crow’s Nest locations, the Noyo Center for Marine Science gives families an engaging look at the ocean world that defines the Mendocino Coast. Kids can enjoy interactive learning, marine life exhibits, and educational experiences that make science feel like an adventure.
6. Step Back in Time at Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park
A visit to Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park combines history, ocean views, and a little exploration all in one. Families can walk the scenic grounds, visit the lighthouse area, and enjoy a classic North Coast outing filled with fresh air and photo-worthy views.
7. Stroll Noyo Harbor & Grab a Bite at Sea Pal Cove
Noyo Harbor is full of working waterfront charm, with boats, sea life, and plenty to see along the docks. After exploring, families can relax and refuel with a casual meal at Sea Pal Restaurant, making this a fun and easy stop for all ages. Don’t forget the fried Twinkie for dessert!
8. Bainbridge Park
Recently renovated Bainbridge Park features new playground equipment and surfaces, tennis and basketball courts, and indoor and outdoor fields. Located on East Laurel Street, just a few blocks east of downtown Fort Bragg, it’s the perfect spot for kids and grown-ups to run around and let off steam.
9. Kayak the Noyo River
Kayaking the Noyo River is a peaceful adventure that lets families experience Fort Bragg from the water. It’s a fun option for older kids and adventurous families looking to paddle through scenic surroundings and enjoy a different side of the coast. Kayak rentals available at Kayak Noyo located in the harbor.
10. Walk the Coastal Trail and Noyo Headlands State Park
For an easy outdoor activity with big ocean views, head to the Coastal Trail and Noyo Headlands State Park. These family-friendly paths are perfect for walking, biking, spotting wildlife, and soaking up the fresh coastal air together.
11. Model Railroad & Historical Society – Model train exhibit
Step back in time into Fort Bragg’s logging and rail history with a visit to the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad and Historical Society – an unforgettable addition to your itinerary for kids and grown ups alike.
Bartender & Bitters
OUR STORIES
The Bartender & the Bitters
Harborview Bistro and Bar is perched atop Noyo Harbor right at the bend in the river, providing gorgeous views up and down river toward the sea. The building itself is steeped in the history of Fort Bragg and provides a rich atmosphere for the restaurant and the very special bar area just off the entrance to the hotel itself.
Mixologist and bartender Laura Spradlin has been at the helm of the Harborview Bistro bar for going on eight years. She got her start as a bar manager at Heritage House in her early days and from there moved to Albion River Inn where she managed the bar for over 30 years. So if anyone knows the business of managing high end Mendocino County hotel bars, its Laura.
Harborview Handcrafted
Her latest endeavor is handcrafting Harborview’s beautiful and proprietary line of bitters, and incorporating them into specialty cocktails. The botanicals used are grown on the premises and change with the seasons along with the cocktail menu.
At the time of our visit, early spring, lilac bitters were the latest concoction and Whale of a Thyme was the seasonal cocktail on offer, in sync with the annual whale migration season. The line of bitters can be purchased in the hotel lobby.
Local Tip:
Happy hours on the back deck overlooking the inner Noyo Harbor.
Bitters elevate the cocktail with layers of flavor expressions – the sky’s the limit.
– Laura Spradlin
The Harborview Bistro Bar includes Laura’s Apothecary Station, a wonderful and rich assortment of herbs, dried fruit, flower petals, peppers, and even edible glitter. Watching her construct her concoctions is almost as fun as drinking them.
Top 10 Things to do with Girlfriends in (and around) Fort Bragg
FORT BRAGG
Top 10 Things to do with Girlfriends in (and around) Fort Bragg
Planning a girls’ getaway? Fort Bragg delivers coastal views, outdoor adventure, great food, and plenty of opportunities to relax and reconnect. Whether your crew wants nonstop activity or long, lazy ocean-view lounging, this North Coast gem has you covered.
Here are ten ways to make your weekend unforgettable—and probably an annual tradition.
1. Ride the Skunk Train
Step into a different era aboard the iconic Skunk Train. For the ultimate experience, book the Presidential Car, where vintage rail travel meets elevated snacks and drinks included with your ticket. The stop at the Glen Blair Bar in the redwoods adds another layer of fun and frolic – think a lotta laughter under towering trees.
2. Walk (or Run) the Coastal Trail
The Fort Bragg Coastal trail stretches about 10 miles along dramatic shoreline starting at Noyo Headlands Park at the south end of town. It’s a flat , scenic, and perfect for a morning walk or jog with with sweeping coastal views, dunes, wildlife and beach access along the way.
3. Shop Downtown
Shopping in Fort Bragg is anything but ordinary. The downtown district is packed with galleries, vintage shops, and creative upcycled goods. Hunt for the perfect souvenir, a mid-century serving piece, local artwork—or treat each other to something special at one of the chic women’s boutiques.
4. Do Lunch in the Harbor
For lunch with a view, head to Noyo Harbor. Watch fishing boats glide in and out while seabirds, seals, and otters provide the entertainment. Every restaurant serves ultra-fresh seafood, found in fish tacos, fish and chips, chowders and seafood salads.
5. Stay Somewhere with an Ocean View
Make your getaway extra memorable by booking a home or hotel with sweeping ocean views. Bluff-top rentals, cozy redwood cabins, and coastal hotels offer plenty of options—whether your group wants a luxe retreat or something casual and cozy.
6. Catch the Sunset
Sunset along the coast is a daily ritual here. Any stretch of the coastal trail makes a perfect viewing spot, but if the weather turns moody, grab a table at Noyo River Grill or The Wharf and watch the sky light up from indoors.
7. Time Your Trip with a Local Event
Fort Bragg’s calendar stays lively year-round. Annual favorites include Fort Bragg Whale Festival each March, Magic Market in October, and Paul Bunyan Days over Labor Day weekend. Every first Friday of every month, downtown comes alive with music, late-night shopping, and food trucks.
8. Dinner Downtown
Downtown Fort Bragg delivers when it’s time for dinner. Fresh seafood is always on the menu, and the Mexican restaurants are local favorites. For a lively night out, the bar at Los Gallitos is buzzing most evenings—and the birria tacos are legendary.
9. Rent Bikes
Pick up bikes at Fort Bragg Cyclery and cruise the coast. Riding the coastal trail north leads to MacKerricher State Park, known for its dramatic black sand beaches, tide pools, and wildlife.
10. End the Night with a Cocktail (or Mocktail)
Cap off the evening with drinks and good conversation. A few favorites: harbor views at HarborView Bistro & Bar, local flavor at Milano Hotel & Bar, craft beer at Tall Guy Brewing, or historic charm at Golden West Saloon with its beautifully carved original bar.
North Coast Clothing Co.
North Coast Clothing Co.
Fun trinkets and great quality Fort Bragg souvenir-wear.
Anchor and Grind
Anchor & Grind
Fresh-roasted coffee and homemade syrups shacked up on Main Street with local crafts and Fort Bragg-themed souvenirs. Expect a warm welcome and good company.
Fort Bragg Bakery
OUR STORIES
Fort Bragg Bakery
Best known for sourdough and French baguettes, the Bakery also churns out everything from rye loaves to breadcrumbs.
At 3:30 a.m., while most of Fort Bragg still dreams, the lights at Fort Bragg Bakery, located on Franklin Street in the literal center of town, flicker on. Owned by Tricia and Chris Kump since 1999 with head baker Misa since 2009, Fort Bragg Bakery sells only commercially and so is not open to the public, unfortunately for the public! However, you can find the bread at local markets and restaurants and get your fix that way.
Bragg’s Daily Bread
The building holds a large and beautiful brick oven dating back to the 1920’s, fashioned from bricks that were used as ballast on the boats returning to Fort Bragg from San Francisco after dropping their loads of redwood logs.
Best known for sourdough and French baguettes, the Bakery also churns out everything from rye loaves to breadcrumbs. The rich and mouthwatering aroma of baking bread permeates the air in the mornings on Franklin Street and you will so want to enter the business for some freshly baked bread, but you will find the door only cracked for ventilation, and a chain lock in place. But the windows always have a fun display, and if you peek in you will see there is a bustle of activity inside with Misa at the helm.
Local Tip:
Head to nearby Harvest Market where you will find an array of Fort Bragg Bakery products on display.