Northern California is home to an abundance of roadside attractions and as strange as they might be, they actually make for fascinating day trip destinations. From drive-thru redwood trees to gravity-defying houses, these quirky roadside stops are a fun place to visit for families especially. One of our favorites is the famous Eternal Tree House, an especially charming destination that’s been around for decades. Perhaps you remember visiting it as a kid decades ago! If you have yet to see this bizarre destination, you’ll want to be sure to plan a little road trip soon.
Located along the Avenue of Giants, the Eternal Tree House is a beloved roadside attraction that's just as charming as it is strange. It's well worth a stop when you find yourself in the area, and best of all, it's completely free to visit.
The big attraction at this quirky destination is of course the tree house itself. Located in a still-living tree stump of a 2,500-year-old redwood, the history of this tree house and how it came to be is surprisingly fascinating.
Initially, the large cavern in the tree's stump was caused by a fire that occurred centuries ago. For years, the cavern was used by indigenous people, trappers, hunters, and anyone else who stumbled upon it looking for shelter. It wasn't until the early 1900s that a man named Harry McCleod actually carved out the interior with an ax.
As more and more travelers started hitting the road in the 1950s, roadside attractions started popping up all over Northern California—this one included. During this era, the tree house was officially converted into a 20-foot room and gift shop. The area also boasted picnic areas and other kitschy points of interest.
Visiting the Eternal Tree House today, you'll step into a mostly unfurnished room. The room itself boasts only a unique log chandelier and a guest book on a pedestal for signing. It's nothing fancy, but it's certainly unique!
Afterward, be sure to stop by the Eternal Tree House cafe where you can pick up a bite to eat before hitting the road again. There's also a gift shop where you can purchase some one-of-a-kind trinkets, such as locally crafted redwood products, so you can forever remember your time at this odd destination.
The Eternal Tree House has been a popular pit stop along the Avenue of Giants for decades and it most definitely makes for a fun place to get out and stretch your legs. Continue a treasured Northern California tradition and stop by this funky destination soon!
