Art & Culture Attractions in Crescent City & Del Norte County, California
Explore vivid murals, exceptional galleries and tall tales. Let music feed your soul within an ancient redwoods shrine. The bold and spirited heritage of California breaths life into the arts and culture of Del Norte County. From forests to galleries, inspiration is everywhere.
Art Murals
Devour a delicious, fresh fish sandwich and then traverse the colorful sidewalks of Crescent City to devour some culture. The Redwood Mural Society is committed to showcasing the heritage, wildlife and craft of the region through more than 30 beautiful murals that grace the exteriors of many local businesses. Local artists are inspired by rugged wonder and pivotal stories to create striking art. From 60-foot-long oceanscapes to intricate mosaics of the Smith River, each piece vibrantly explores the spirit Del Norte County.
Hand-Carved Wooden Sculptures
Infuse some art into your scenic drive. Meet the colossal lumberjack, Paul Bunyan, and his four-legged companion, Babe the Blue Ox, on your drive through Klamath. Paul stands 49 feet and greets you as you enter the Trees of Mystery experience. Ask Paul some questions and he will answer back! For a cultural stroll, check out some of the attraction’s trails interpreting the mythology and tall tales of Paul Bunyan and century-old local lumberjacks from the timber boom. There is also the amazing End of Trail collection onsite (through the gift shop) made possible from the personal collection of Marylee Thompson.
Guilded Golden Bears
Make a stop for some gilded roadside art – the Golden Bears of Klamath’s Douglas Memorial Bridge. Once just concrete accessories, local folk painted the bears one night in the 1950s. For years, an ongoing tug-of-war game ensued. Each time transportation officials would strip the bears of their golden splendor, locals would paint them again. Decades later, officials have embraced the artsy contribution and now regularly touch up the ornate gatekeepers.
Performing Arts
Take your creativity on an adventure all its own at the Crescent Elk Auditorium. The Del Norte Association for Cultural Awareness arranges a varied season of stellar entertainment each year such as folk, swing, jazz, dance and lively multi-disciplinary performances. Music fills the forest several times a year with the Music in the Redwoods Concert Series.
Art Galleries & Roadside Art Attractions
Gather your group for a trip to the local art galleries and let your cultural curiosity soar. Admire eye-catching paintings from local artists. Study striking photography that celebrates California’s rugged quiet. Snag a functional yet beautiful piece of pottery. Stop by the courthouse too – the Art in Public Spaces exhibits rotates talented artists often.
Art & Culture Attractions in Del Norte County
Del Norte County Historical Society and Museum
Address : 577 H Street Phone : +1 707-464-3922 Website
Wander With Us
Wander through the California redwoods, surf rugged coastline, hike the California Coastal Trail, or savor a craft brew next to a cozy campfire along the Pacific Ocean. Follow our Big Adventures journal (and tag your photos #VisitDelNorte so we can follow along!) for things to do and ideas for exploring all parts of Del Norte County — from the Oregon border to Crescent City to Klamath, California.
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