Cloverdale California

Cloverdale California Information

Situated at the intersection of Highways 101 and 128, Cloverdale is in the midst of one of the richest wine producing areas in the country. Though located in Sonoma County, the city is also on the border of Mendocino County, so visitors to Cloverdale - located in the wine-rich Alexander Valley - can reap the benefits of two counties full of amazing wineries, both large and small.

A good first place to stop when visiting Cloverdale is at the Wine and Visitor Center, where you'll be treated to a wealth of information not only about the wine industry but also about lodging, restaurants, and historical sights in and around this town of about 7,000 residents.

Cloverdale activities can be accomplished both on land and water…and even in the air. If you enjoy a leisurely (or sometimes invigorating) ride on your bicycle, Cloverdale is just the place for you. There are three excellent loop rides you can enjoy from Cloverdale. Varying in length, at least one is appropriate for your cycling level. Novices or those looking for a short trek should take the 10 mile ride across the Russian River at Summer Bridge. More ambitious cyclists might consider the 50-mile, 3-4 hour trip that takes riders all the way to Geyserville and past some excellent wineries. There's also a 25-mile round-trip loop.

Cloverdale is also just minutes from beautiful Lake Sonoma. Here, vacationers can hike, swim, ride, boat, camp, or fish. In all, the lake boasts 2,700 acres (when full) and 50 miles of pristine shoreline. Stop at the Milt Brandt Visitor Center to learn about the cultural and natural history of the Dry Creek Valley or to gather info on any special events or programs happening at Lake Sonoma.

Parks abound in Cloverdale, and the Sonoma County Regional Parks Headquarters is located here as well. Regional parks provide lots of room for hiking, biking, boating, and other recreational pursuits. Check out Cloverdale River Park, great for canoers and kayakers. Local parks and playgrounds are popular with the younger set.

History buffs should head downtown to the Gould-Shaw House, home to the Cloverdale Historical Society Museum. Learn some interesting facts about the town and its surrounding areas at this lovingly-tended museum. Be sure to also drive past the historic Cloverdale murals, found at the Sciaini Building at 124 S. Cloverdale Blvd.

Want to do something really adventurous on your trip to Sonoma County? Head to the airport where you can sign up for skydiving! Soaring over Cloverdale and the rest of this gorgeous county will be a memory that will last forever.

Cloverdale is a wonderful place to enjoy some small-town festivals, many which attract visitors from far and wide. The events include the Street Celebration Classic Car and Motorcycle Show (September), Black Bart Festival and Tradeshow (May), Scarecrow Competition and Sidewalk Sale (October), the popular Old Time Fiddle Contest (January), the Cloverdale Annual Sculpture Exhibit (September), the Citrus Fair and Parade (February), and the Russian River Wine Road Barrel-Tasting event.

If you're in town for a special event, you can choose from a number of accommodations. Downtown Cloverdale lodging includes several quaint inns and B&Bs as well as a handful of small motels. When it's time for a meal, Cloverdale restaurants include several fast food chains, excellent privately-owned ethnic restaurants, cafes, and delis. For a small town, the selection is quite diverse.