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 warm delicious bowl of clam chowder, then traverse the streets of Crescent City, Klamath and Smith River to devour some culture. Explore the Del Norte County Art Mural Trail which features nearly 50 hand painted murals. Follow the map to marvel at art murals that creatively capture Del Norte County’s history, heritage, wildlife and Native culture  … and earn a free prize!

The Redwood Mural Society is committed to showcasing the heritage, wildlife and craft of the region through 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.

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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