Eureka, California is the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland, Oregon. Apart from its position as a convenient stopping point for road-trippers, and its status as a hot spot for food and wine-oriented travelers, Eureka is also known as a historic seaport and its Old Town filled with Victorian houses and buildings.
It stands to reason that several of the city’s best inns and bed and breakfasts are housed within those landmarks. But there’s also a range of budget-friendly motels and chain hotels that offer a comfortable overnight stay without the higher price tag of Eureka’s quaint historic inns.
It’s all about old world elegance at The Inn at 2nd & C. This Victorian-style gem, opened in the late 19th century features a mix of precious antiques and contemporary comforts. The gourmet breakfast is served on real china, and guest rooms have period furniture alongside iPod docks and high-end linens. Rooms have separate seating areas, too. One of the great pleasures of staying at the inn is the lovely afternoon tea service — you’ll feel transported to another era.
One of the more upscale accommodation options in Eureka, historic Hydrangea Inn offers spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments with plenty of amenities. There’s real charm here: some apartments have hand-carved walnut beds and walls made of locally sourced old growth redwood, while others have family heirlooms and antique writing desks. There’s also a free-standing bungalow with a full kitchen, if you’re seeking extra privacy. All apartments come with cable TV, DVD players, electric kettles, and free wi-fi. There’s a peaceful garden for relaxing, and a lavish homemade breakfast bed prepared by the owners.
Bayview Motel might be an older motel, but thanks to impeccable standards for maintenance and cleanliness, it’s still one of the best budget picks in Eureka. Guest rooms are what you’d expect in terms of size and layout, but they’ve been freshened up with white linens and a lighter color palette. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, and complimentary toiletries. Some rooms also have spa tubs and private balconies; others have fireplaces, separate seating areas, and walk-in showers.
Easily one of the most charming places to stay in town, Eureka Inn isn’t just a B&B: it’s a landmark listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The inn, just steps away from Old Town Eureka, has been open since 1922 and has hosted famous figures like Winston Churchill and Ronald Reagan. The building is a fine example of Elizabethan Tudor architecture, and the onsite Redwood Lounge is a destination in itself — many visitors to Eureka stop here for a drink, and plenty of travelers and locals stop in around the holidays to view Eureka Inn’s giant Christmas tree. Guest rooms are more modern than you’d expect, featuring flat-screen TVs and updated bathrooms.
Free parking and a pet-friendly policy for a bargain price? Tell us more. Eureka Town House Motel is located downtown, near the historic center of Eureka, and offers basic but comfortable guest rooms with free wi-fi, coffee machines, and cable TV. Upgrade to a larger room for extras like a king-sized bed and a spa bath. There’s nothing fancy here, but repeat guests love the convenient location and the price.