Sonoma California

Sonoma California Information

Located along Highway 12 and boasting a small population of about 9,000 residents, the city of Sonoma is often called "the birthplace of California." For twenty-five days, Sonoma served as the capital of the Bear Flag Republic and, ultimately, it was the Bear Flag revolt that led to California's entry into statehood, signaling the end of Mexican rule. Sonoma is still full of history and is often described by many as the centerpiece of this wonderful wine-producing valley. It was designed to resemble a Mexican village and still exudes that same quaint atmosphere. The geographical center of the city of Sonoma is Sonoma Plaza. The plaza was designed in the mid-1800s by Mexican Governor Mariano Vallejo and today enjoys National Historic Landmark status. The plaza is home to the oldest building in the city - part of the Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma, founded in 1823. It was the northernmost mission built by the Mexicans and served to protect their interests from Russian fur traders. Additional structures that can be found on Sonoma Plaza include Governor Vallejo's home - the once magnificent La Casa Grande, which was the center of social activity in the town. Only the 2-story servant's wing survived an 1867 fire. Sonoma's City Hall, which was used in the popular 1980s television show Falcon Crest, also stands here. Visitors can also stop by and explore the Sonoma Barracks, designed and built to house the Mexican troops under the direction of General Vallejo. These historic structures are all part of Sonoma State Historic Park. Additional park sites include the Toscano Hotel, home to many Italian immigrants who came to Sonoma just before the turn of the century, and Lachryma Montis, Vallejo's second home which is now a museum housing historic artifacts and documents. Looking for recreational Sonoma activities? For outdoor fun, head to Bartholomew Memorial Park, an 800-acre area full of gently sloping hills, a babbling brook, and even a small museum. Wineries sit at either end of a 3-mile trail. Also check out Maxwell Farms Regional Park, where you'll find a skateboard park, little league fields, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Sonoma certainly isn't just for history and recreation. Arts aficionados will enjoy this city as well. Visit the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, a small but enticing museum that features work by local, regional, national, and international artists. You might also catch a concert at the museum. The Sebastiani Theatre serves as both a venue for cinema and a live-theater location. Enjoy movies, magic, dance, concerts, and excellent opera and musical theater productions at the Sebastiani. Like many of the towns in Sonoma County, the city of Sonoma is the site of many festivals year round. Annual events include Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival, Sonoma Salute to the Arts, Winegrowers Crab and Fennel Fest, Cinema Epicuria Annual Sonoma Valley Film Fest, Carneros Wine Country Half and 10K, Catalan Festival, Sonoma Jazz+, and the Sonoma Wine Country Glass Art and Bead Festival. Naturally, many of the special events are centered around Sonoma's wonderful wines, the reason many travelers head to Sonoma in the first place. However, once guests arrive in the city of Sonoma, they'll be tempted to stay. Sonoma lodging is warm and welcoming and includes cozy cottages, quaint B&Bs, picturesque inns, vacation rentals, and a handful of small motels. Sonoma restaurants are plentiful and run the gamut from Mexican cantinas to Asian cuisine to New York-style delis.