The view of Humboldt Bay and Woodley Island Marina from the new Eureka Boardwalk is a popular photography subject for visitors and residents alike.
As the business, cultural, tourist and governmental center of Humboldt County, the city of Eureka is the heart of the Redwood Empire.

Each year, thousands
of visitors are drawn to the pristine beauty of the redwood coast. With its rich history, vibrant hospitality, breathtaking natural attractions and abundant cultural and artistic opportunities, this friendly seaport city promises to charm and delight just about anyone.

Because of its unique location on Humboldt Bay, majestic redwood forests, state and national parks, six natural rivers and expansive, uncrowded beaches surround Eureka. From Eureka, visitors set out for a variety of scenic, recreational offerings such as the stately Avenue of the Giants, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, the historic Victorian village of Ferndale or the world's tallest tree in the World Heritage Site at Redwood National Park.

Founded In 1850, Eureka grew around a bustling port on Humboldt Bay, which historically served the forest products and commercial fishing industries. More than 140 years ago, gold miners, loggers and fishermen made their mark in this wilderness. Over the years the architectural influence of the Victorian era found a home in Eureka and many of its authentic, Victorian manors and buildings remain, providing a very special glimpse of this long ago tradition. Today, visitors and residents alike marvel at the architectural majesty of the renowned Carson Mansion and ornate "Pink Lady."

Visitors and locals can easily step back in time in the historic Old Town district with its eclectic array of small shops, galleries and businesses. Located at the original center of the town at the foot of F Street, passers-by can stroll the newly completed Eureka Boardwalk and view the Woodley Island Marina, Just across the Bay. Eureka is also the only officially designated Coast Guard City on the West Coast.

Lodging and dining choices are abundant and varied and are suited to every taste and budget. Of special interest is the bounty of fresh local seafood. Depending on the season, diners delight to fresh cracked Dungeness crab and other specialties. King Salmon is just one of the many fish delicacies from local waters.
Add the business center of the North Coast, and Eureka provides everything a new or expanding business might need. A full array of business services as well as a steady customer base is available in close proximity. The city of Eureka also enjoys the distinction of having both a California Enterprise Zone and a Foreign Trade Zone status. Both of these designations provide important, cost-saving incentives for businesses.

Whatever your business or vacation pleasure may be, you'll find everything you need and want in Eureka.

by J Warren Hockaday, Eureka Chamber of Commerce