Woodland, CA

About the City
Geography
Climate and Weather
Landmarks and Attractions
Transport
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Museums
Sport and Sports Legends
Universities and Academic Institutions
Healthcare Facilities and Services

Woodland is the county seat of Yolo County, California. Known as the "City of Trees," it's a historic agricultural and processing hub with a charming downtown, now part of the Sacramento metropolitan area.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Full Official Name: City of Woodland.
Administrative Role: Woodland is the county seat of Yolo County, California . This means it serves as the administrative center for the county government.
Regional Context: The city is located in the state of California, within the United States. It is part of the Sacramento metropolitan area . Yolo County is a prominent agricultural region, known for its fertile farmlands, rice mills, and tomato canneries . It's also home to the University of California, Davis, a world-renowned public university located in the neighboring city of Davis.

Historical Names and Nicknames

Official Nickname: "City of Trees" (Ciudad de los Árboles). This well-earned nickname reflects the numerous valley oaks and other trees planted throughout the city .
Historical Name: Before its incorporation, the settlement was briefly known as "Yolo City" in 1853, named after the store built by Henry Wyckoff. The name was changed to "Woodland" in 1859 by Frank S. Freeman, who envisioned a town surrounded by woodlands . The town's original roots go back even further, to a Patwin village and seasonal hunting camps in the area .

Founding Date and Age

Founding and Incorporation: The area was first settled by Europeans in 1851. The town was named Woodland in 1859, and the post office was established on July 5, 1861 . Woodland was officially incorporated as a city on February 22, 1871 .
Age: As of 2026, the City of Woodland is 155 years old.

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Geographic Coordinates: 38°40′43″N 121°46′24″W (38.67861, -121.77333) .
Physical Setting: Woodland is situated on flat land in the heart of California's Sacramento Valley, which is the northern part of the vast Central Valley . The city is surrounded by fertile farmland .
Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 69 feet (21 meters) above sea level .
City Type: It is a medium-sized city that functions as an administrative, commercial, and agricultural service center within a larger metropolitan area .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Woodland's economy is a blend of its historical agricultural roots and modern logistics.

Agricultural and Food Processing Hub: Historically, and still today, its economy is based on agriculture. It has been a center for processing crops like rice, sugar beets, and tomatoes .
Manufacturing and Distribution Center: Due to its prime location at the intersection of Interstate 5 and State Route 113, near Sacramento and the Bay Area, Woodland has grown as a manufacturing and distribution center for goods like modular homes, plastics, and farm machinery .
Administrative Center: As the county seat, government and public administration are significant employers .

Population and Demographics

Population: According to the 2020 census, the population was 61,032 . Estimates for 2023 and 2024 place the population around 61,256 to 63,487 .
City Size Class: Woodland is a medium-sized city.
Demographic Features: It is a diverse community with a significant Hispanic/Latino population (49.7% in 2023) . Over 21% of residents were born outside the United States . The median age is 37 .

"City's Business Card" (In Short)

Woodland is a historic gem in California's Central Valley, proudly known as the "City of Trees." Visitors and residents alike enjoy its beautifully preserved downtown, rich agricultural heritage, and a strong sense of community, all while being just a short drive from Sacramento and the wonders of Northern California.

Geography

Woodland is located in the flat, fertile Sacramento Valley. Its geography is defined by its agricultural setting and its proximity to major rivers and protected wetlands.

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Bypasses)

The area's hydrology is dominated by the Sacramento River system and man-made bypasses designed for flood control.

Sacramento River: Located just east of Woodland, this major river is a vital source of water for the region and supports a diverse range of wildlife .
Yolo Bypass: This extensive flood control channel and wildlife area lies to the east of the city, between it and the Sacramento River. It provides crucial habitat for birds and other wildlife .
Cache Creek: This creek runs to the north of Woodland and provides opportunities for outdoor recreation like fishing and wildlife observation . The Cache Creek Nature Preserve offers walking trails to explore different habitats .
Willow Slough: Located to the southeast of the city .

National and Natural Parks

While Woodland itself is an urban area, it is surrounded by significant natural areas.

Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area: This area is a premier destination for birdwatching and hiking, playing a critical role in flood protection and providing a wetland habitat .
Cache Creek Nature Preserve: Located just outside of Woodland, this preserve features walking trails that allow visitors to explore various habitats and observe wildlife such as deer, river otters, and numerous bird species .

Climate and Weather

Type of Climate and General Characteristics

Woodland has a Mediterranean climate (Köppen Csa) , characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters . It's one of the sunnier parts of California, though winter months can be plagued by dense tule fog.

Average Monthly Temperatures

Summers are hot, with temperatures frequently in the upper 90s (°F), and winters are cool and damp .

Hottest Month: July - average high of 96°F (36°C) and average low of 58°F (14°C) .
Coldest Month: December/January - average high of 54°F (12°C) and average low of 36-38°F (2-3°C) .
Extreme Temperatures: Recorded temperatures have ranged from 15°F (-9°C) to 114°F (46°C) .

Precipitation and Humidity

Rainfall: The city receives an average of about 19-20 inches (approx. 480-500 mm) of rain per year .
Wettest Month: January is typically the wettest month, with about 3.92 inches (99 mm) of rain .
Seasonality: The rainy season is generally from October through April .
Humidity: Average humidity is around 78% .

Specific Weather Phenomena

Tule Fog: During the late fall and winter months, Woodland frequently experiences tule fog, a thick, ground-hugging fog that can significantly reduce visibility and make for chilly, gray days that may not burn off .
Delta Breeze: During the summer, a wind known as the "Delta Breeze" often flows in from the Carquinez Strait, cooling the evenings and bringing nighttime temperatures down into the upper 50s .
Snow: Snow is extremely rare in Woodland. The last measurable snowfall was on January 28, 2002 .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Woodland are in the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) .

Spring: Pleasant and warming temperatures, with nature in bloom. Ideal for walking tours and exploring outdoor areas like the Cache Creek Nature Preserve .
Summer (June-August): Hot and dry. While great for swimming and water sports at Velocity Island Park , outdoor activities are best done in the morning or evening. The heat is dry, making it feel more tolerable than in humid climates.
Fall: Similar to spring, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. A beautiful time to explore the countryside.
Winter (December-February): Cool, wet, and often foggy. This is the low season for tourism but a good time to enjoy indoor attractions like the museums and the Woodland Opera House .

Landmarks and Attractions

[Woodland Opera House]

Full Name: Woodland Opera House.
Location: 340 2nd St, Woodland, CA 95695 .
Year and Architect: Originally built in 1885. It was rebuilt in 1895-96 after a fire .
Significance: This is a California Historical Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places . It is one of the few remaining 19th-century opera houses in the state that is still in operation.
What makes it unique: It stands as a beautifully preserved example of Victorian-era architecture and continues to serve as the cultural heart of the community, hosting live theater productions, concerts, and events. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in history or the performing arts .

[Gibson House (Yolo County Historical Museum)]

Full Name: Gibson House / Yolo County Historical Museum.
Location: 512 Gibson Road, Woodland, CA 95695 .
Year and Architect: The Gibson House was built in 1857 by William Byas Gibson, a prominent local landowner and businessman .
What it is: This historical home is set on 2.5 acres and now operates as the Yolo County Historical Museum, managed by YoloArts .
What makes it unique: It offers a glimpse into 19th-century life in Yolo County. The museum features exhibits on local history, agricultural displays, and the story of the Gibson family, making it a fantastic educational resource .

[Gable Mansion]

Full Name: Gable Mansion.
Location: 659 1st Street, Woodland, CA 95695 .
Year and Architect: Built in 1885 by Amos and Harvey Gable.
Significance: This 19th-century Victorian home is a California Historical Landmark, noted for being "one of the last of its style, size, and proportion in California" . It remains a private residence, so tours are not available, but it is a stunning example of residential architecture from Woodland's boom era and is a favorite subject for photographs .

[California Agriculture Museum]

Full Name: California Agriculture Museum.
Location: 1962 Hays Ln, Woodland, CA 95776 .
What it is: This non-profit organization features an extensive collection of historical agricultural exhibits, including the impressive Hays Antique Truck Museum .
What makes it unique: It beautifully showcases the history of farming in California with unique tractor collections and artifacts that illustrate the state's farm-to-fork journey . It's a testament to Woodland's deep agricultural roots.

[Dead Cat Alley]

Full Name: Dead Cat Alley.
Location: Between 1st Street and Dead Cat Alley .
What it is: A narrow alleyway in downtown Woodland that has been transformed into an open-air art gallery.
What makes it unique: It is filled with colorful murals and street art created by local artists, telling vibrant stories about the community. The quirky name itself is a talking point and the ever-changing art makes it a dynamic and free attraction .

[Woodland Public Library and Rose Garden]

Full Name: Woodland Public Library and Rose Garden.
Location: 250 1st St, Woodland, CA 95695 .
What it is: The city's public library, beautifully complemented by an adjacent rose garden.
What makes it unique: It's a haven of knowledge and natural beauty. Visitors can explore literary treasures indoors and then relax in the fragrant, serene rose garden outdoors, making it a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon .

Transport

Main Airports

Woodland is exceptionally well-located for air travel, being very close to a major international airport.

Primary Airport: Sacramento International Airport (SMF) . It is the closest and most convenient airport, located only about 8 to 16 km (approx. 10-15 minutes) away by car . The Yolobus public transit system provides a bus connection from the airport to Woodland .
Alternate Airports: For more flight options, travelers can also consider:
- Oakland International Airport (OAK) - ~114 km .
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - ~130 km .
- Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC) - ~146 km .

Major Highways and Roads

Woodland is a key transportation node, situated at the convergence of two major routes.

Interstate 5 (I-5): This major west coast interstate highway enters Woodland from the east (from Sacramento) and curves northward, exiting the city to the northwest on its way to Redding and the Pacific Northwest .
State Route 113 (SR 113): This highway enters the city from the south (from Davis) as a controlled-access freeway, merges with I-5, and then diverges north of the city as a two-lane road .

Public Transportation

Yolobus: This is the primary public bus service for Yolo County. It provides transit within Woodland, as well as connections to nearby cities like Davis, Winters, and Sacramento, and also to the Sacramento International Airport (SMF) .
Historic Train Depot: The Woodland Train Depot, built in 1911 for the Sacramento Northern Railway, is a historic landmark. While it no longer serves passenger trains, it stands as a reminder of the railroad's crucial role in the city's early prosperity .

Cycling and Walking

Woodland's flat terrain and charming, historic downtown make it an excellent city for walking and cycling. The city is surrounded by picturesque farmlands, offering opportunities for scenic biking and jogging routes .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Woodland's culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of its community, characterized by a rich array of independently owned restaurants offering flavors from nearly fifteen different countries . While the city itself may not have a single, globally-famous dish, its strength lies in the authentic and diverse dining experiences available, with a particularly strong representation of Mexican cuisine.

Mexican Cuisine: The Heart of Woodland's Food Scene

The most prominent and celebrated aspect of Woodland's food culture is its Mexican food. The city is home to numerous taquerias, restaurants, and specialty vendors, making it a cornerstone of local dining.

El Texano Carnitas is a local favorite, known for its specialty: authentic, slow-cooked carnitas . This dish, featuring tender, flavorful pork, is a staple of Michoacán-style cooking and a must-try for visitors.

For burrito enthusiasts, The Burrito Snob offers an extensive menu of classic and specialty burritos. Their offerings showcase the depth of Mexican regional cooking with fillings like tender Birria (slow-cooked beef in rich spices), Al Pastor (sweet roasted pork), Cabeza (roasted beef head), and Lengua (beef tongue) . Each burrito is typically served with Mexican-style rice, beans, and fresh pico de gallo, representing the everyday, hearty fare that locals enjoy.

Other notable Mexican spots include La Fogata Restaurant, Taqueria La Michoacana, Casa Jalisco, and the seafood-specializing Las Islitas Ostioneria and El Pantano Marisqueria . This high concentration of authentic options makes Mexican cuisine the defining culinary tradition of Woodland.

A Global Palette: Diverse Dining Options

Beyond Mexican food, Woodland's independent restaurant scene offers a world of flavors. Visitors can enjoy:

Asian Cuisine: Options include Japanese steakhouses and sushi bars like Sakura and Jinju Sushi, Thai food at Bangkok City Cuisine, and MAX TASTE Lahorian Grill for Pakistani and Indian fare .
American Classics: For a taste of local American dining, Kitchen428 Restaurant & Mojo’s Lounge offers a modern menu, while Morgan’s On Main and Father Paddy’s Pub provide classic pub fare and drinks . Black Bear Diner is a popular spot for hearty, family-style meals .
Central American Flavors: Pupusería La Chicana introduces the cuisine of El Salvador with its signature dish, pupusas—thick corn tortillas stuffed with savory fillings .

Local Libations and Wine Tasting

The HIVE Tasting Room and Kitchen at 1221 Harter Avenue stands out as a destination for locally-inspired beverages and dining . It offers a taste of the regional wine and craft beer scene, providing a gathering place for the community.

A Hub for Culinary Education

For those interested in the culinary arts, Woodland Community College offers an Associate of Arts degree in Culinary Arts and a Certificate of Achievement in Baking . This program highlights the city's commitment to fostering culinary talent and tradition, serving as a local institution for professional food education.

Museums

Woodland offers a focused and enriching museum experience, centered on the history of the region and the creative development of its youngest residents.

Yolo County Historical Museum

The premier cultural institution in Woodland is the Yolo County Historical Museum, located at 512 Gibson Road . Housed in the historic Gibson House, a magnificent Victorian-style mansion built in 1857, the museum itself is a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Established in 1975, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of Yolo County.

The museum's collection is particularly strong in agricultural heritage, featuring extensive artifacts and memorabilia such as antique farm equipment, tools, and photographs that document the evolution of farming in the region. Visitors can also explore exhibits on the history of local Native American tribes, the early European settlers, and the development of the city of Woodland. The museum also contains a research library with books, maps, and archives for those delving deeper into county history. Admission is free, and it is open to the public on weekends .

Mosaic Children's Museum

For families, the MOSAIC Children's Museum offers a dedicated space for interactive learning and play. Located at 120 Main Street, Suite D, the museum's mission is "inspiring and empowering children through science, art, imagination, and creativity" . It serves as a community resource where young children can learn through curiosity, with exhibits and programs designed to engage them. The museum also uniquely involves youth volunteers and invites community elders to engage with children, fostering intergenerational connections .

Museums and Arts Nearby

For those seeking additional cultural attractions, the nearby city of Davis, just a short drive away, is home to the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art at the University of California, Davis. This modern museum features contemporary art and is known for its innovative architecture and connections to the renowned UC Davis art faculty.

Additionally, the Woodland Opera House serves as a cultural venue for performing arts. While not a museum, the historic building and the surrounding area, with its scenic historic architecture, offer a cultural and educational experience for visitors .

Sport and Sports Legends

Woodland has a vibrant and active sports culture, anchored by excellent public facilities that cater to athletes and fans of all ages. The city actively partners with organizations to host tournaments and events, positioning itself as a destination for sports travel .

Key Sports Facilities and Parks

Woodland boasts several premier athletic venues:

Woodland Sports Park: This is the city's flagship athletic complex, featuring multiple full-sized FieldTurf diamonds suitable for baseball and soccer .
Clark Field: A historic baseball venue established in 1930, Clark Field has served as a central hub for local baseball activities and community events for nearly a century .
The Charles Brooks Community Swim Center: An ADA-accessible public pool with picnic areas, offering classes and programs for the community .
Pickleball Courts: The city has embraced the pickleball craze with several dedicated facilities. Players can find six lined courts with nets provided at Beamer Park, four lined courts (bring your own net) at Rick Gonzalez Park, and six dedicated courts with dividing fences at Crawford Park .

Community and Adult Sports Leagues

The Woodland Community Services Department actively organizes adult sports leagues, fostering local athletic competition. For Spring 2026, the department was accepting registrations for leagues in basketball (18 & up), softball (18 & up), and volleyball (16 & up), with games held at city facilities . These leagues highlight the city's commitment to providing recreational opportunities for its residents.

Fitness and Wellness

For individual fitness enthusiasts, Woodland offers a variety of venues, including Fitness System, In-Shape Fitness, and NSFIT Woodland .

Nearby Collegiate Sports

While Woodland itself is home to Woodland Community College, which does not have a high-profile athletics program, the city is within easy driving distance of the University of California, Davis. UC Davis fields Division I teams (NCAA Division I, Big West Conference), known as the Aggies. Fans can enjoy a wide range of collegiate sports, including football at UC Davis Health Stadium and basketball at the University Credit Union Center, just a 15-20 minute drive from Woodland.

Universities and Academic Institutions

Woodland's higher education landscape is primarily defined by its local community college, with a vast array of prestigious universities located within a short driving distance.

Woodland Community College (WCC)

The city's own institution of higher learning is Woodland Community College, part of the Yuba Community College District . Located at 2300 E. Gibson Road, WCC is a public, two-year college that was first accredited in 2008 . With a total enrollment of over 5,100 students, it serves as a vital educational resource for the community .

WCC offers a wide range of Associate of Arts (A.A.) and Associate of Science (A.S.) degrees, along with Associate Degrees for Transfer (A.A.-T/A.S.-T) and Certificates of Achievement. Its academic programs are diverse, including strong offerings in:

Agriculture Sciences: Such as Agriculture Business, Agriculture Plant Science, and Environmental Horticulture, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage .
STEM and Technical Fields: Including Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Drinking Water and Wastewater Technology, and Welding Technologies .
Liberal Arts and Social Sciences: Such as Anthropology, Chicana/o Studies, Communication Studies, History, Psychology, Sociology, and Social Justice Studies .
Career and Technical Education: Including Accounting, Business Management, Culinary Arts, Baking, Early Childhood Education, and Law Enforcement .

WCC is noted for its affordability, with the lowest tuition in the immediate area for local residents, and has an open admission policy, making higher education accessible to a broad segment of the population .

Prestigious Universities Nearby

Woodland's location in Northern California places it within an hour's drive of some of the world's most renowned universities. For residents and visitors, these institutions are easily accessible for academic pursuits, lectures, and cultural events.

University of California, Davis (UC Davis): Located just about 15 minutes south in Davis, UC Davis is a top-tier public research university and a global leader in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental sciences. It's a major intellectual and cultural hub for the entire region.
University of California, Berkeley: Approximately 62 miles south, UC Berkeley is one the most prestigious public universities in the world, consistently ranked among the top institutions globally .
Stanford University: Around 100 miles to the south in Stanford, this private university is another global academic powerhouse, renowned for its entrepreneurial culture and excellence in engineering, business, and law .
University of the Pacific: A private university in Stockton, about 53 miles away, known for its distinguished programs in law, dentistry, and music .

Healthcare Facilities and Services

Healthcare services in Woodland are centered around local clinics and home health agencies, with comprehensive hospital care available in the nearby city of Davis.

Dignity Health Medical Group — Woodland

The primary medical facility in the city is the Dignity Health Medical Group — Woodland office, located at 632 W. Gibson Road. This multispecialty clinic provides a range of outpatient services, including primary care, cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, and obstetrics/gynecology. It serves as a key access point for residents to connect with the broader Dignity Health network.

Woodland Healthcare Home Health

For patients requiring skilled nursing or therapy services in their own homes, Woodland Healthcare Home Health is a licensed Home Health Agency operating in the city. Located at 1207 Fairchild Ct, this agency provides in-home medical care, allowing patients to recover in a familiar environment .

Nearby Hospital: UC Davis Medical Center — Sacramento

For acute care, emergency services, and specialized medical treatment, Woodland residents rely heavily on the world-class facilities in Sacramento. The UC Davis Medical Center, a comprehensive academic medical center, is located approximately 20-30 minutes east in Sacramento. It is consistently ranked among the nation's best hospitals and is particularly renowned for its trauma center, cancer care, neurology, and telemedicine programs.

Nearby Hospital: Sutter Davis Hospital

For more immediate hospital needs, Sutter Davis Hospital in nearby Davis offers a full range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and maternity care. Located just a short drive from Woodland, it provides convenient access to inpatient and outpatient services for the community.