Step back in time to Mendocino, where the beauty of the California coast meets a perfect 19th-century village. This self-guided walking tour explores a town that is more like a New England postcard than a West Coast settlement. As you wander past wooden Victorians and saltboxes, you’ll discover how a logging outpost evolved into a world-renowned artistic enclave.

Beyond the charming storefronts and dramatic headlands lies a narrative of survival. You’ll trace the town’s origins back to the shipwreck of the Frolic, a disaster that accidentally birthed a timber empire. Learn why Mendocino remained frozen in time while others modernized, eventually catching the eye of Hollywood scouts.

Perfect for the curious explorer, this tour connects the lumber trade with the power of the Pacific. Whether you recognize these streets from Murder, She Wrote, or you’re seeing them for the first time, you'll leave understanding the hidden chapters that make Mendocino a true California treasure.

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required

GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location

Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires

Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time