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A man crossing a bridge beneath tall redwood trees

Redwoods to Vineyards

Tucked into rolling hills and vineyard country, Ukiah is the kind of place where mornings start slow, afternoons are for sipping and wandering and evenings glow golden. This 2-night escape is designed for couples or friends who want a balance of nature, great food, and laid-back wine country charm all centered around a stay at Yokayo Ranch.

Day 1

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Afternoon
Arrive in Ukiah and head straight to Patrona for a leisurely lunch. Settle in with a glass of local wine and ease into the slower pace this is your official “you’ve arrived” moment.

After lunch, make your way to Yokayo Ranch for check-in. Take time to unpack, wander the peaceful grounds or simply sit outside and soak in the quiet, oak-dotted landscape.

Evening
Head out for dinner at Cultivo, where wood-fired dishes and seasonal ingredients shine. Afterward, keep the evening easy and enjoyable with a show or film at Ukiah Players Theatre. It’s intimate, local and a great way to feel connected to the town.

Delicious food

Photo Courtesy of @ukiahbrewingco

Day 2

Morning
Wake up slowly at Yokayo Ranch and start your morning with a fresh cup of coffee on the porch or wherever you can take in the quiet surroundings.

Once you’re ready, head into town for a cozy, no-rush breakfast at The Forks Cafe. This local favorite is the kind of place where you can settle in over a hearty meal and ease into the day.

Afternoon
After breakfast, take a short scenic drive north to Redwood Valley and spend your afternoon at Testa Vineyards. This historic, family-run winery offers a relaxed and authentic tasting experience.

Sip your way through their wines, then linger for lunch on the property think picnic-style, surrounded by vines and open skies. Afterward, take time for the Ranch Walk, where you can stretch your legs and wander through the vineyard landscape at your own pace. It’s unhurried, peaceful and one of those simple moments that ends up being a highlight.

Evening
As the afternoon winds down, head back to Ukiah and freshen up at Yokayo Ranch before dinner.

For the evening, make your way to Ukiah Brewing Company. With its laid-back energy, house-made beers and hearty menu, it’s the perfect spot to end the day on a fun, social note.

Day 3

Morning
Wake up at Yokayo Ranch, pack up, and check out before heading into town. Keep the morning easy and unfussy with breakfast at Black Oak Coffee grab a rich cup of locally roasted coffee and a light bite to fuel your final morning.

Late Morning
From there, make your way to Lake Mendocino for one last experience before leaving town. Rent a Lake Mendocino Kayak and SUP Rentals and glide out onto the water, surrounded by rolling hills and wide-open skies.

It’s a peaceful, slightly adventurous way to wrap up your trip whether you paddle along the shoreline or simply float and take in the stillness. Afterward, take a moment to dry off, soak up the view, and enjoy that “one last deep breath” before heading home.

Grace Hudson Museum

Tips & Extras

Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall (May–October) offers the best mix of sunshine and outdoor-friendly weather. Fall is especially magical with harvest season in full swing, while spring brings lush green hills and wildflowers.

What to Pack:
Bring layers mornings and evenings can be cool, even in summer. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for redwood trails and winery visits. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket. A reusable tote is perfect if you plan to bring home a bottle or two.

Two Extra Stops in Ukiah (If You Have Time):

Find a moment of calm at City of Ten Thousand Buddhas, a serene and expansive temple with peaceful walking paths.

Step into local history at Grace Hudson Museum, where art and storytelling bring early California to life.

Keep Exploring the Magic!

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