4th of july

Question

Myself and my husband will be visiting the redwoods for our 10th year anniversary. We don't have alot of time so we will be flying in. What is the best airport to fly into. What is the best city to stay in. Do we just go and book rooms as we travel. We will be visiting for 3 days. I thought about crescent city but now thinking acrata. He has never been to the redwoods and we would like to enjoy fireworks. May e at night some drinks at a local bar. Help..

Answer

For a 3-day visit to Redwood National and State Parks for your 10th anniversary around the 4th of July, planning ahead is important as it’s a busy holiday weekend. Here’s a detailed guide for flights, accommodations, and activities.

Best Airports:

Crescent City Airport (CEC): The closest airport to the northern portion of the Redwoods, about 15–20 minutes from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Small regional airport with limited flights, usually connecting via San Francisco or Los Angeles.
Eureka/Arcata Airport (ACV): About 1.5–2 hours south of Crescent City. Larger selection of flights and car rentals available. Convenient if you plan to explore the southern areas of the park.
Alternative: San Francisco (SFO) or Portland (PDX) are further but sometimes offer more flight options if coming from other states.

Best Cities to Stay:

Crescent City: Ideal if you want to minimize driving and be close to the northern redwoods. Has some local restaurants, bars, and 4th of July fireworks celebrations.
Arcata / Eureka: Larger towns with more hotel options, restaurants, and nightlife. Good if you want a mix of redwoods and local town amenities.
Considerations: Since it’s the holiday weekend, it’s highly recommended to book hotels in advance rather than finding rooms as you travel, as accommodations fill quickly.

Suggested Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive at Crescent City or Arcata airport. Pick up a rental car and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the local town or Crescent Beach. Enjoy a dinner in town and possibly some live music or drinks at a local bar.

Day 2: Full day in the Redwoods:

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park for ancient redwoods and short hikes like Boy Scout Tree Trail or Stout Grove.
Drive the scenic Coastal Drive through the parks to see Tall Trees Grove or Prairie Creek Redwoods.
Picnic lunch among the trees or at designated park areas.
Return to your hotel in the evening for a local 4th of July fireworks display.

Day 3: Explore southern or coastal areas:

Drive south toward Prairie Creek or Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Parks if staying in Crescent City, or explore nearby Humboldt Redwoods if in Arcata.
Optional visit to Fern Canyon for a short hike.
Return to airport for departure.

Hotel Suggestions:

Crescent City: Oceanfront Lodge or Best Western Plus Beachfront Inn – close to the coast and easy access to northern park areas.
Arcata / Eureka: Best Western Plus Humboldt Bay Inn or Bayshore Mall area hotels – more dining and nightlife options.

Tips:

Book hotels as soon as possible due to 4th of July demand.
Bring layers as coastal Northern California can be chilly in the evenings, even in summer.
Plan for early starts in the parks to maximize your sightseeing and avoid crowds.
Consider a local brewery or small bar in Crescent City or Arcata to enjoy some drinks in the evening after fireworks.

This plan allows you to experience both the majestic redwoods and a festive 4th of July celebration while keeping travel manageable within 3 days.