Stardew Valley offers many unlockable locations that add depth and diversity to the game world. Each area presents unique charm and opportunities, from the serene Secret Woods tucked away in the northwest corner of Cindersap Forest to the bustling Oasis in the heart of the Desert. Venturing into the Mines reveals hidden treasures and dangers while unlocking the Skull Cavern grants access to even deeper mysteries. The Railroad, initially inaccessible, unlocks after a significant event, offering new vistas to explore. As players progress through quests and achievements, they unlock bridges, keys, and passageways, gradually unveiling the rich tapestry of Stardew Valley's secrets waiting to be discovered.

Note: The following guide will contain spoilers.

Calico Desert

The Calico Desert, situated northwest of Pelican Town, features perpetual sunny weather and consistent seasons.

Repair the Bus:

Complete the Vault Bundles at the Community Center or purchase "Bus Repair" for 40,000g from the Joja Community Development Form.

Access the Desert:

Once repaired, enter the Calico Desert through the Bus Stop.

Casino

The Casino in the Calico Desert can be accessed through the Oasis's rear entrance. The Bouncer bars the entry until completing The Mysterious Qi quest.

Dwarf's Cave

The Dwarf, a valley resident, resides in the Mines, initially blocked off by an unbreakable rock near the entrance. Upgrading to a steel pickaxe or using a cherry bomb (or stronger) can break the rock barrier.

Understand Dwarvish:

Acquire the 4 Dwarvish scrolls found within the mines. After donating them to the Museum, Gunther rewards the player with the Dwarvish Translation Guide. This guide enables an understanding of the Dwarf's speech, allowing purchases from the Dwarf's shop and increasing friendship.

Ginger Island

Ginger Island, situated within the Fern Islands archipelago, becomes accessible upon repairing the boat located in the backroom of Willy's Fish Shop. Tickets for the boat can be obtained after completing the Community Center and reaching eight hearts with Willy.

Mastery Cave

Located in the Cindersap Forest, the Mastery Cave becomes accessible once the player reaches level 10 in all five skills. It unlocks immediately upon reaching level 10 in the fifth skill; waiting until the next day is unnecessary.

Note: Learn about Stardew Valley Mastery here.

Mines

The Mines, located in the north area of the Mountains, are blocked by rock debris until the 5th of Spring in the first year when the player receives a letter.

Mutant Bug Lair

The Mutant Bug Lair, an underground area, is accessible during the Dark Talisman Quest. Its entrance lies in the northwest corner of The Sewers, with Krobus opening the passage during this quest.

Railroad

The Railroad, situated north of The Mountain, is an outdoor area accessible on the 3rd of Summer in the first year after an earthquake clears the blocked pass. Upon waking up, a message notifies the player: "There was an earthquake during the night."

Spa

The Spa is situated in the southwest section of the Railroad.

Secret Woods

The Secret Woods, an outdoor area, is entered from the northwest corner of Cindersap Forest. Initially obstructed by a large log, a Steel Axe upgrade or above is required to clear it.

Sewers

The Sewers, unlocked by obtaining the Rusty Key after donating 60 items (artifacts or minerals) to the Museum, offer access via a sewer cover in the south of Pelican Town or through grates in the south of Cindersap Forest. Krobus, found here, sells rare items.

Skull Cavern

The Skull Cavern, situated in the northwest region of the Desert, is initially inaccessible and necessitates the Skull Key for entry. The Skull Key is acquired upon reaching Floor 120 in The Mines.

Tide Pools

The tide pools, where Coral and Sea Urchins can be found, are located at the east end of the beach. Initially, the wooden footbridge across the river must be fixed, rendering the tide pools inaccessible. Repairing the bridge, which requires 300 pieces of wood, or purchasing the second community upgrade is necessary to gain access.

Qi's Walnut Room

The Walnut Room is located West of the Island Farm on Ginger Island. 100 golden walnuts are needed to unlock the entrance.

Quarry Mine

The Quarry Mine cave entrance is situated on the left edge of the Quarry, north of the bridge. Unlike The Mines, it is located outside. Inside, there's a ladder leading down to the mine, which consists of a single long floor.

Witch's Hut

The Witch's Hut is located in the Witch's Swamp and becomes accessible upon completing the Dark Talisman Quest.