From beaches to museums, Fort Bragg has a little something for every family member for a memorable weekend getaway.
Glass Beach. Glass Beach gets its name for the polished glass along its shimmering shores. Please note: It’s illegal to remove the glass from the beach. Parking is free. W. Elm St. and Glass Beach Drive, Fort Bragg. www.fortbragg.com/explore/glass-beach/.
Skunk Train. This one-hour scenic roundtrip takes you through the redwoods and along the Pudding Creek Estuary on some of the oldest railroad tracks in the state. 100 W. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. 707-964-6371. www.skunktrain.com/.
Mendocino Coast Model Railroad & Historical Society. Located just behind the Skunk Train depot, this tribute to the Mendocino Coast’s railroad history boasts nearly 1,300 feet of track and models – plus it’s free with your Skunk Train ticket. www.mendorailhistory.org/index.htm.
Wiggly Giggly Playground. Let the kids run loose at the Wiggly Giggly Playground’s four slides, tire swing and play structure while you relax on a park bench. 442-498 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. www.yelp.com/biz/wiggly-giggly-playground-fort-bragg.
Point Cabrillo Light Station. Venture outside the city toward Mendocino to the Point Cabrillo Light Station. It’s a bit of a walk from the parking lot (a half mile to be exact), but if you’re into views or lighthouses, it’s a must see. 45300 Lighthouse Road, Mendocino. pointcabrillo.org/.
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Visiting in the fall? Check out one of the wild mushroom walks or identification workshops, peruse the edible garden, or wait until dark for the Festival of Lights. 18220 North Highway One, Fort Bragg. 707-964-4352. www.gardenbythesea.org/.
Michelle Leary is a Bay Area-Based freelance writer.
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