Cloverdale, a small town located at the northern end of Sonoma County, is gaining attention for its unique blend of history, local food, and wine culture. Once known for sawmills and citrus groves in the late 19th century, Cloverdale maintains its historic charm while offering modern attractions.
Visitors can start their day at Plank Coffee, which roasts its own beans and serves locally made juices and baked goods. On Wednesday evenings from April to November, the menu features items inspired by produce from the Cloverdale Tuesday Farmers’ Market.
The Gould-Shaw House Museum provides a look into Victorian-era architecture. Built in 1862 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it remains furnished with period décor. Next door, the Cloverdale Historical Society’s History Center displays a collection of artifacts ranging from antique farming equipment to Native American art.
Art enthusiasts can explore more than 30 outdoor sculptures along the Cloverdale Sculpture Trail. The trail features works such as giant geometric pieces and whimsical figures like “pigasus.” The Sciaini building on Cloverdale Boulevard also displays murals that depict scenes from the town’s early days.
Outdoor activities are available at Cloverdale River Park on the Russian River. The park includes a mile-long scenic trail, kayak and canoe launches, picnic tables, and views of riparian habitats.
Cloverdale has nearly a dozen wineries spread across several valleys including Dry Creek and Alexander Valley. Notable stops include Fritz Underground Winery with cave tours and BobDog Winery in Pine-Mountain-Cloverdale Peak AVA. J. Rickards Winery offers picnic lunches paired with their wines if arranged in advance. Bicycle-friendly loops allow visitors to combine exercise with wine tasting.
Wolf House Brewing Company caters to beer fans with selections like Sticky Paws IPA and Burning Daylight Pilsner.
For dining options focused on comfort food, Hamburger Ranch & BBQ is known for brisket and ribs served in a red-barn-style setting. Railroad Station Bar and Grill offers burgers and pot roast in a train-depot-themed restaurant. Pick’s Drive In has been serving classic burgers since 1923; under new ownership, it continues to offer traditional menu items outdoors or at picnic tables.
Entertainment options include plays at the 99-seat Cloverdale Performing Arts Center as well as jazz performances and storytelling nights featuring wine and cheese.
Lodging ranges from ranch-style accommodations at Old Crocker Inn—originally an 1880s hunting retreat—to Kelley & Young Wine Garden Inn set in a Queen Anne Victorian home listed on the U.S. Register of Historic Places. Camping is available at Cloverdale Wine Country KOA Campground overlooking Alexander Valley with amenities such as cabins, tent sites, fire pits, picnic tables, RV hook-ups, and wifi.
