It’s another early spring day when the meandering clouds, reluctant sunshine, and intermittent rainstorms make planning trips an adventure, like playing chess with the weather. To stay home is predictable, and to guess the weather is not for the faint of heart. This time of year, Mother Nature’s moods change as frequently as the second hand on a clock. One minute, spring promises colors as bright as the warming sun’s rays, before changing its mind and pummeling the earth in a gray drizzle, which then turns into a storm.
We can’t always predict the weather, but we can embrace its ever-changing moods and be prepared, making it all part of the adventure! If you’re already staying at Casini Ranch and Family Campground, Duncans Mills is only a little ways downstream and easily seen from Highway 116. But if you’re coming from Lake County, it’s an easy day-trip destination in any weather and somewhere you can find a bit of everything.
And if you’re looking for just that–a bit of everything–Duncans Mills General Store holds all you need for a picnic on the beach, from wine and cheese to freshly made sandwiches in their deli. And only a few steps away is an antique store for that step back in time with hidden treasures for the extra bit of nostalgia.
Just across the way is Pig Alley, where you can peruse trendy jewelry, pottery, stickers and more! While on that side of the sidewalk, venture over to Worldly Goods for various quality fashions for all ages and a few trinkets for fun.
By now, you are realizing that the boardwalk between buildings holds even more treasures to be discovered, including my personal favorite, Poet’s Corner Book Shop–a tiny A-frame shop with a variety of books for all ages, and, of course, a bit of candy for the young or young at heart. And if the mood and book are just right, there’s enough seating for you to turn a page or two in that book or chat with a friend.
Only one door down rests the Duncans Mill’s Tea Shop, where they specialize in high-quality, locally created blends, with, of course, all the tea accessories imaginable: Here you’ll find everything from strainers to tea pots, tea towels, silverware, magnets, mugs, caramel popcorn and so much more. Take your time, because there’s always more to be seen in this little shop.
The more you meander, the more shops you’ll find, including antiques, records, and a flower shop which reminds me of my grandma’s home; it’s full of knicknacks, dried flowers, vintage clothes, and many curiosities.
However, you cannot leave without experiencing Christopher Queen Galleries in the back corner of town. If you are an art lover, this is a must-see and must-do experience. Here you’ll see some of the Bay’s finest artists capturing images so real you’re transported to the sweeping hillsides of Mendocino’s coastline or lured into the bristling cold of snow of a winter landscape. Take your time because it’s meant to be savored.
And because Duncans Mills is a historical site. Crossing the highway, Duncan’s Mill Depot is well worth your time. You can almost hear the chatter of passengers waiting for the coming train. Then head over to the train cars for the whole travel experience of times past. It’s a peak into history and a great photo opportunity before hitting the road again or returning to Casini’s Ranch and Family Campground.
No matter the weather, Duncans Mills gives you an opportunity to do several things: stretch your legs, impress out-of-town friends, see new things, and learn more about California’s history. It’s easy to make a day of it or a weekend trip. And best of all, there’s a little bit of something for everyone.
