Page 385 – Sonoma Magazine

Daytripping: 13 Things to Do in Cloverdale

October 2016

By Chelsea Kurnick

Tucked in the hills just off of Highway 101, Cloverdale is Sonoma County’s northernmost city — if you miss your exit, you’ll blink and find yourself in Mendocino County. But don’t miss your exit — Cloverdale epitomizes an all-American town, inviting visitors to unveil its beauty and its many charms. Despite being recognized by Budget Magazine as one of the nation’s coolest small towns, Cloverdale still feels largely undiscovered by tourists.

Here are 13 of our favorite things to do in Cloverdale:

Start your day at Plank for some of Sonoma County’s finest coffee and pastries.

Mike Morisette and Marne Dupere brought a little slice of hipster paradise to Cloverdale when they opened Plank Coffee in 2012. Beyond their excellent espresso, don’t miss the cafe’s wide assortment of freshly-baked pastries, many of them vegan and/or gluten free. If coffee’s not your speed, cool off with Jordan’s Shrub of the Week, a healthy, fermented soda-alternative made from local produce. Contact: Plank Coffee: 227 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale; (707) 894-6187, visit on Facebook.

Seating and wall decor at Plank Coffee in Cloverdale. (Photo by Chelsea Kurnick)

Have a hearty breakfast at Savvy on First

Savvy on First has all the trappings of a charming small town diner, but Chef-Owner Kristine Bodily kicks it up a notch with perfect gourmet touches throughout the menu. Your pancake is a ricotta buttermilk pancake and it’s served with real maple syrup. The sausage is a homemade patty with hints of maple and sage. Service is friendly and relaxed, and there’s a good list of local wines to boot. Savvy serves lunch and dinner, too. Contact: Savvy on First: 116 East 1st St., Cloverdale; (707) 894-3200, savvyonfirst.net

Rent a bike at Cloverdale Cyclery

Owner Dave Reynolds has worked with bicycles for more than 50 years and believes Cloverdale features some of the best bike riding terrain in Sonoma County. You can rent bikes and gear by the day or week at his shop and ask him for area maps and ride suggestions. Rolling hills, the Russian River and Lake Sonoma are all easily accessed from Cloverdale. Contact: Cloverdale Cyclery: 117 Broad St, Cloverdale; (707) 669-0377, cloverdalecyclery.com

Cloverdale Cyclery. (Photo by Chelsea Kurnick)

Skydive into wine country

Several thousand people per year visit Cloverdale Municipal Airport to get their adrenaline pumping at NorCal Skydiving. Owner Jimmy Halliday says that, while most of his clientele travels from the San Francisco-area, people from all over the world pick Cloverdale to jump. “Most people are bucket-listers — just coming to do a tandem jump once for the experience, but we do train people to become expert solo-jumpers,” Halliday says. Kimberly Melendez and her daughter Melina came from San Jose to skydive recently. Moments after reaching the ground, Melendez said, “The scenery was awesome, just indescribable! I could see water, hills, vineyards, a pond — the free canvas of mother nature.” Contact: NorCal Skydiving: 220 Airport Rd, Cloverdale; (888) 667-2259, norcalskydiving.com

NorCal Skydiver landing at Cloverdale Municipal Airport. (Photo by Chelsea Kurnick)

Take a 20-minute flight in a Light Sport plane

If you prefer to take in the view from inside a plane, you can visit Shipway Aviation @ Hangar 10, also housed at the Cloverdale Municipal Airport. On Saturday mornings, Captain Ray Shipway and his wife Sher invite visitors to gather for coffee, donuts and conversation with other flight enthusiasts. The business specializes in teaching people how to build and modify their own Quicksilver Ultralight and Light Sport aircraft. Visitors may book a short flight with Captain Shipway by appointment. Contact: Shipway Aviation @ Hangar 10: 220 Airport Rd, Cloverdale; 707-584-9682, shipwayaviation.com

Light Sport Plane at Shipway Aviation Hangar 10 at the Cloverdale Municipal Airport. (Photo by Chelsea Kurnick)

Learn the town history at the Cloverdale History Center and Gould-Shaw House Museum

The Gould-Shaw House is a Victorian-era Gothic-Revival Cottage in the center of Cloverdale that dates back to 1862. Recognized in the National Registry of Historic Places, the property is maintained as a museum by the Cloverdale Historical Society, who also maintains the next-door History Center. More than anywhere else in Cloverdale, you’ll sense the small-town camaraderie here; the exhibits — which range from antique farming machinery to art of the native Pomo tribe to early 20th century clothing — are culled together by the volunteers and residents who take pride in their collection. Note: A friendly cat lives in the museum, so if you’re allergic, you will want to avoid this stop. Contact: Cloverdale History Center and Gould-Shaw House Museum: 215 N Cloverdale Blvd. Cloverdale; (707) 894-2067, cloverdalehistoricalsociety.org

Organ inside of the Gould-Shaw House in Cloverdale. (Photo by Chelsea Kurnick)

Experience outdoor art along The Sculpture Trail

More than 30 large outdoor sculptures are installed throughout Cloverdale and nearby Geyserville. The sculptures are displayed year-round and the exhibition changes annually. You can view or print a brochure from The Sculpture Trail’s website. Several of the sculptures are visible from Highway 101 or right along Cloverdale Blvd., so you’ll be able to see and appreciate some of the pieces even if the trail is not on your itinerary. Contact: (415) 608-6160, 101sculpturetrail.com

"Hands with Balls." sculpture by Santa Rosa artist Peter Crompton. Part of the Sculpture Trail , a year-round exhibit in Cloverdale and Geyserville with sculptures changing every 9 months. PETER CROMPTON — “Hands with Balls.” sculpture by Santa Rosa artist Peter Crompton, part of the Sculpture Trail in Cloverdale and Geyserville. (Photo by Peter Crompton)

Hang out on the Russian River at Cloverdale River Park

This park offers picnic tables and a scenic trail just over a mile long with access to the Russian River. The wildlife and views can be enjoyed year-round, and in summer it’s a good place to kayak or go for a swim. Throughout the trail, you can read information about the park’s riparian habitat and the flora and fauna it supports. Contact: Cloverdale River Park: 31820 McCray Road, Cloverdale, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov

Cloverdale River Park. (Photo by Chelsea Kurnick)

In summer, savor the Cloverdale Certified Farmers Market and Friday Night Live concert series

This is a small market, but the quality of the produce and prepared foods is outstanding. You’ll find unbeatably sweet organic strawberries and tomatoes from Preston Farms, hot bites from Goodman’s Jewish Deli and the most delicious fresh pita chips from Falafel Fix. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the plaza features live music from a range of talent, family-friendly activities and premium Sonoma County beer and wines for sale by the glass. Contact: Cloverdale Farmers Market and Friday Night Live: Cloverdale Blvd. between 1st St & 2nd St., seasonally, cloverdalefarmersmarket.com

Falafel and pita chips from Falafel Fix at the Cloverdale Certified Farmers Market. (Photo by Chelsea Kurnick)

Have a burger for dinner

Cloverdale likes its burgers, but if you ask a local where to go, you’ll get differing answers. We’ll share three top choices and let your tastebuds lead you.

Hamburger Ranch and Bar-B-Que is easily reached by both Highways 101 and 128. Travelers and locals relish this classic road-stop for its tasty food and kitsch appeal.

For a juicy burger that comes with a great conversation, head to Railroad Station Bar and Grill and chat with owner JB, a Sherpa who summited Mount Everest five times before settling in Cloverdale.

Finally, for a taste of history, visit Pick’s Drive In, open since 1923. Just this year, Pick’s was purchased by David Alioto of Healdsburger, who promises that the charms and secret red relish of the historic restaurant will remain, despite updates to the menu. Michael Morrissey, manager of the Cloverdale Municipal Airport, says, “My best Cloverdale memory is of a group of four or five young kids on skateboards riding up to the window at Pick’s Drive In and pooling their change together to buy one milkshake to share. This was maybe ten years ago, but it’s still that way now. If you go to Pick’s right now, I bet that’s what you’ll see.”

Hamburger Ranch and Bar-B-Que: 31195 N Redwood Hwy, Cloverdale; (707) 894-5616
Railroad Station Bar and Grill: 114 Railroad Ave, Cloverdale; (707) 894-4779
Pick’s Drive In: 117 S Cloverdale Blvd, Cloverdale; (707) 894-2962

Pick's Drive-In in Cloverdale, California on Monday, March 28, 2011. (BETH SCHLANKER/ The Press Democrat) — Pick’s Drive-In in Cloverdale, open since 1923. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Catch a show at the Cloverdale Performing Arts Center

The arts scene in Cloverdale is impressive, especially for a town its size. The Cloverdale Performing Arts Center is a beautiful 99-seat theater, designed by Paul Gilger, who also designed Santa Rosa’s 6th Street Playhouse. With six shows in the regular season, the theater strives to cater to a wide variety of audiences; you’ll find comedy and drama, with some shows geared toward adult audiences and some that will appeal to families. The Performing Arts Center also hosts community events like Books on Stage, a free series of readings and interviews with literary writers, and the Cloverdale Historical Society’s Speaker Series. Contact: Cloverdale Performing Arts Center: 209 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale; (707) 894-2214, cloverdaleperformingarts.com

"The Adventures of Mr. Toad," based on The Wind in the Willows, premieres at the — “The Adventures of Mr. Toad,” based on The Wind in the Willows, premieres at Cloverdale Performing Arts Center on December 2, 2016. (Poster by Rob Wilson, robwilsonwork.com)

Catch a movie at The Clover Theater

This cozy, independently-owned movie house has four screens and a whole lot of heart. You’ll find first-run movies and special screenings along with well-priced snacks. Owners Ryan and Katheryn Hecht continually renovate and update the theater and its offerings, first installing digital projectors and state-of-the-art sound, then adding Three Twins ice cream, beer, wine, and a comic book shop. Contact: The Clover Theater: 121 E 1st St., Cloverdale; (707) 894-6347, clovertheater.com

Stay overnight at a B&B

Bed and breakfasts are a great way to extend your Cloverdale experience. For more Victorian flavor, stay at Kelley and Young Wine Garden Inn, a bed and breakfast housed inside a Queen Anne Victorian home, built in 1901 and listed on the United States Register of Historic Places. Guests are provided with a choice of seven guest rooms and use of the gorgeous veranda, gazebo and gardens. For an Old West experience, stay at Old Crocker Inn, a five-acre ranch-style bed and breakfast founded in the 1880s as a hunting retreat. The Old Crocker Inn offers guests a choice of five lodge rooms and five cottage rooms, four of which are dog-friendly.

Kelley and Young Wine Garden Inn: 302 North Main Street, Cloverdale; 707-894-4535
Old Crocker Inn: 1126 Old Crocker Inn Rd, Cloverdale; (707) 894-4000

Lodge — Cottage at the Old Crocker Inn in Cloverdale. (Photo courtesy of Old Crocker Inn)

Looking for more things to do in Sonoma County? Click here.

9 Artsy Places To Check Out in Sonoma County

October 2016

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

Graton Gallery in Graton. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Art and entertainment in Sonoma County you may not know about…but should.

This article is part of a series called “Hidden Sonoma.” To see the full list of 80+ things to do in Sonoma County, click here.

Art in an Unsuspecting Place: Graton Gallery
There isn’t much to the tiny town of Graton, yet the long, narrow Graton Gallery and its adjoining sculpture garden are worth exploring. The gallery showcases original fine art, paintings and prints, as well as jewelry, pottery, textiles, glass and woodcrafts from more than 50 artists. Sculptures and fountains abound in a fenced-in garden area. New shows debut every six weeks, and if the timing is right, wine flows and snacks are served.

9048 Graton Road, Graton, 707-829-8912, gratongallery.net

Covers You Covet: Treehorn Books
Remember books? Before Kindle? The folks at Treehorn Books love tomes so dearly they celebrate them in a mishmash clutter of new and used treasures, at bargain prices to encourage us to read more. Row after row, shelf after shelf (plus ladders to reach them), there are all kinds of inventive categories such as the Sixties, Fire & Disasters, Counter-Culture, Earthquakes & Floods, Drama, first editions (including signed) and lots of rare gems, plus the more expected History and Children’s Literature sections.

625 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-525-1782, visit on Facebook

Treehorn Books. (photo by Erik Castro) — Treehorn Books in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Erik Castro)

Burning Man Without the Desert: Paradise Ridge Winery
The giant “LOVE” sculpture at Paradise Ridge Winery was created for the Nevada festival in 2007 and now has a permanent home in the winery’s secluded meadows. Every year, other Burning Man pieces are installed for rotating shows curated by the Voigt Family Sculpture Foundation. That might mean temples (the ones that don’t get burned), towers and wind machines placed along paths amid the groves. Most of the pieces are interactive: feel free to crawl and clamber.

4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-528-9463, prwinery.com

A work by Roger Berry is one of the sculptures currently on view at Paradise Ridge Winery. This show, ‘Geometric Reflections,’ curated by Kate Eilertson, will remain open until April 30, 2017. (Photo by Robbi Pengelly)

Java and the Hut: The Rio Theater
On the Russian River, alongside the no-nonsense bridge at Monte Rio, sits a most unusual movie house. The films screened in the historic Quonset hut fronted by a marquee are just one feature of the Rio Theater, in its 65th year. The breakfast-and-lunch cafe and coffeehouse on the elevated deck out back is a second reason to go. The third: the weekend outdoor market.

20396 Bohemian Highway, Monte Rio, 707-865-0913, riotheater.com

The Rio Theater in Monte Rio. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

Theater Without a Marquee: Camp Rose Players
On four weekends in October, the Camp Rose Players perform at an unlikely location: Healdsburg’s Fitch Mountain, an extinct volcano dotted with humble cabins and the occasional high-end home. Camp Rose, an early-1900s recreation site on the Russian River, had an inn that was remodeled in the 1970s as a restaurant, bar and theater. It’s now a private residence, but Suzanne Webb, daughter of the theater’s founder, Jane Moore, continues to stage plays in the Camp Rose theater on the first floor. It has 30 red velvet seats, professional sound and lighting, yet no marquee, as tickets are sold by word of mouth and a mailing list. Bonus: There’s parking.

2140 S. Fitch Mountain Road, Healdsburg, 707-473-1616, camproseplayers.com

SOFA, So Good: South of A Street
The South A Street district concealed on the back side of Santa Rosa’s Juilliard Park is an old-fashioned cluster of small shops, galleries, artist studios and eateries refreshingly free of anything close to a chain. No Starbucks, just Atlas Coffee Co. down an alley with a hodge-podge of found furnishings, a record player and great java. Denizens have dubbed it SOFA and it’s full of surprises, including one of the city’s top restaurants (The Spinster Sisters), one of its finest bakeries and cafes (The Criminal Baking Co. & Undercover Noshery) and the edgy Imaginists theater company.

South A Street and Sebastopol Avenue, Santa Rosa, sofasantarosa.com

Artist Taunee Callahan flips through a magazine as she waits for people to visit her gallery during the SOFA Artwalk in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Dinner with the Show: Green Music Center
Dine before one of the indoor/outdoor shows at Green Music Center in the summer. For roughly $100 to $140, attendees are greeted with a glass of sparkling wine, seated on the front row of the Dining Terrace — one of the best outdoor seats available — and served a three-course meal, followed by the show. Wine and beer are available for purchase and you can pre-order a boxed salad or sandwich from Boudin Bakery and a bottle of wine. They’ll be waiting for you when you arrive, whether you’re seated at a table or on the lawn.

Green Music Center on the Sonoma State University campus, 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park, 866-955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu

Concert goers to the Green Music center enjoy the music on the lawn during a bluegrass concert. (Photo by Will Bucquoy)

Way Off Broadway: Transcendence Theatre Company
The Great White Way meets the Milky Way when the Transcendence Theatre Company transplants the best of Broadway to an unlikely stage beside the romantic ruins of an old winery. Professional actors who have appeared on Broadway or in the touring companies take the stage in the middle of Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen for a summer of “Broadway Under the Stars.” The remoteness adds to the magic. Gourmet food trucks and local wines make for an unforgettable dinner show. $42 and up.

2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, 877-424-1414, transcendencetheatre.org

The Transcendence Theater Company on stage at Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen.

Buddhism at The Barlow: Tibetan Gallery & Studio
With an endorsement from the Dalai Lama and financial backing from a retired Silicon Valley executive, Tashi Dhargyal is at work in Sebastopol on an art piece unlike any other. He is creating a two-story-tall traditional Tibetan scroll painting he hopes will travel the world before it comes to rest in a Tibetan monastery. Watch Dhargyal at work on the thanbhochi at the Tibetan Gallery & Studio at The Barlow center, where he uses traditional materials such as hand-ground mineral pigments and 24-karat gold. His gallery also features small prints, silk scarves and other one-of-a-kind items.

6770 McKinley St., No. 130, Sebastopol, 707-509-3777, preservetibetanart.org

15 Hidden Outdoor Gems in Sonoma County

October 2016

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

Coleman Valley Road. (Photo by Kent Porter)

There are plenty of little-known treasures in the great outdoors of Sonoma County.

This article is part of a series called “Hidden Sonoma.” To see the full list of 80+ things to do in Sonoma County, click here.

Roadway to Heaven: Coleman Valley Road
Pity all who’ve yet to discover that the start of Coleman Valley Road in downtown Occidental is the gateway to one of the planet’s most gorgeous routes up-and-over to the ocean. By car, bicycle or motorbike, climb up and up through woods and pastures. Pause for as long as you like at the zenith, to infuse your soul with the majesty of the elevated coastal panorama, then glide down, down to Highway 1 at Coleman Beach, between Bodega Bay and Jenner. Breathtaking.

Full-Moon Kayaking on the Russian River: Suki Waters’ Watertrek
Joining one of Suki Waters’ full-moon night paddles in the estuary of the Russian River is like taking a crash course in local ecology. Waters regales paddlers with local history (her parents were Miwok and Pomo) and explains the importance of the phases of the moon to Native Americans throughout time. She also teaches participants about zooplankton and phytoplankton, some of which glow in the water at night. The three-hour tours are for all ages; reservations are recommended.

10438 Highway, Jenner, 707-865-2249, watertreks.com

Suki Waters of WaterTreks EcoTours in Jenner, California on Friday, January 11, 2013. (BETH SCHLANKER/ The Press Democrat) — Suki Waters of WaterTreks EcoTours in Jenner. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

A Hint of Healdsburg History: Exploring Old-Fashioned Alleys
Tucked between the streets of downtown Healdsburg is a handful of old-fashioned alleys well-marked by street signs. Walking them will send you skidding back to the town’s founding in 1867, 10 years after Harmon Heald laid out the town grid. Created as narrow frontages for barns, stables and carriage houses, the alleys today are quiet, tree-lined lanes. In Alleys 1 and 2 are historical barns now used as garages and studios.

Chasing Waterfalls: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
After several days of a good, hard winter rain, venture to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in Kenwood to view one of Mother Nature’s magnificent seasonal waterfalls, a 25-foot cascade rushing between giant boulders cloaked in green moss. Take the Canyon-Pony Gate Loop and prepare to climb: How better to burn several hundred calories than to ascend 400 feet on the 2-mile loop for what has to be one of the best “selfie” spots in Sonoma.

2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, 707-833-5712, sugarloafpark.org

Waterfalls at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. (photo by John Burgess) — Waterfalls at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. (Photo by John Burgess)

Hug a Tree: Sonoma Plaza Self-Guided Tour
Native plants may be all the rage, but non-native plants can make for intriguing tree exploration. Imagine redwoods, Douglas firs, Norway spruces and southern magnolias all rooted within a few pristine acres on the Sonoma Plaza. Take naturalist Tom Rusert’s self-guided tour with his tree map and see that this is one time where there’s no such thing as barking up the wrong, er … you know.

Sonoma Valley Visitor’s Bureau, 453 First St. E., 707-996-1090, sonomavalley.com

Hit it Stiff: Northwood Golf Course
Golf among towering redwoods at the nine-hole Northwood Golf Course along the Russian River in Monte Rio. The course was designed by Alister MacKenzie, the landscape architect behind the Augusta National course in Georgia and a handful of other legendary links. Views from the greens are nothing short of amazing, especially in the morning, when mist clings to the treetops like a shroud. The course is best known for its challenging holes and affordable rates; all tee times cost less than $50.

19400 Highway 116, Monte Rio, 707-865-1116, northwoodgolf.com

Northwood Golf Course, Monte Rio. (photo by John Burgess) — Northwood Golf Course, Monte Rio. (Photo by John Burgess)

Sculpture Off The Main Drag: Foss Creek Pathway
Some of Healdsburg’s best public art can be found along the Foss Creek Pathway, an in-progress paved walkway that runs on the west side of Foss Creek, from the Vineyard Plaza/Safeway shopping center on Vine Street to the skate park on Grove Street. Along the two-block stretch in front of City Hall, passersby can marvel at a number of ornamental benches and art pieces provided by the Voigt Family Sculpture Foundation. A complementary audio tour package is available from the city’s Parks and Recreation Department office.

Grove Street, Healdsburg, 707-431-3317, ci.healdsburg.ca.us

Public art along the Foss Creek Pathway in Healdsburg. (photo by John Burgess)

A Meandering Trail: Willow Creek Trail
A permit is required to hike the 8-mile Willow Creek Trail that connects the hills behind Duncans Mills with Sonoma Coast State Park, but the effort is well worth it. The trail meanders up hills and down dales, through forested ravines and past fish-bearing streams, all the way to Shell Beach. Portions of the tromp follow trails used by Native Americans, settlers, traders and loggers of yesteryear. The Islands in the Sky loop wanders through redwood and Douglas fir forests to an incredible ocean overlook.

Access from Freezeout Road, Duncans Mills, 707-544-7284, landpaths.org

Untouched by Logging: The Grove of Old Trees
In an unusual location for the remaining old-growth redwood stands in Sonoma, the Grove of Old Trees is perched high on a remote ridgetop, hidden along narrow, twisting Fitzpatrick Lane off Joy Road in Occidental. The grove is owned and managed by the land conservancy group LandPaths and includes 28 peaceful acres traversed by a network of wide, easy-to-walk trails. Access is free, but be forewarned: There are no amenities, save for a picnic table.

17400 Fitzpatrick Lane, Occidental, 707-544-7284, landpaths.org

Grove of Old Trees, Occidental. (Photo by John Burgess)

Historical Resting Place: Mountain Cemetery
Local history lives on at the Mountain Cemetery, a short walk north of the Sonoma Plaza, where the likes of Gen. Mariano Vallejo, Ernest Boyes and other town founders were laid to rest. Sonoma historian Fred Allebach’s self-guided Mountain Cemetery Walking Tour brochure, available free at the kiosk in the parking lot, includes a map of one of the oldest cemeteries in California and gives details about 42 gravesites, forever occupied by some of Sonoma’s most memorable characters, among them ranchers, winemakers, bootleggers and murderers.

90 First St. W., Sonoma, 707-933-2217, www.sonomacity.org

Free Paddling in Petaluma: David Yearsley River Heritage Center
Petaluma is shaped by the river that runs through it, and a boat trip down the Petaluma River is a great way to experience the city. The folks at the David Yearsley River Heritage Center send folks out on complementary rowboat, canoe, kayak and sailboat excursions every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. That’s just enough time to paddle into downtown for lunch at one of the city’s riverside restaurants.

Steamer Landing Park, 6 Copeland St., Petaluma, 707-763-7756, friendsofthepetalumariver.org

Free paddling in Petaluma. (photo by Mark Aronoff) — Free paddling in Petaluma. (Photo by Mark Aronoff)

A Flipping Good Time: Lake Sonoma Disc Golf Course
The nine-hole Lake Sonoma disc golf course, set amid the grassy, rolling hills at the edge of the Warm Springs Recreation Area picnic spot, has become a favorite among local disc-sailing players. The course is set in a manicured park and has restrooms and free parking — and it’s just off the beaten path enough to make it special. Purchase provisions at the Dry Creek General Store (3495 Dry Creek Road) on the way there. The first tee is on the north side of the main parking area.

3232 Stewarts Point-Skaggs Springs Road, Geyserville, 707-431-4533

Jack London State Park from Horseback: Triple Creek Horse Outfitters
Triple Creek Horse Outfitters leads trail rides through Jack London State Historic Park that offer the same vantage point author Jack London himself had as he explored the rugged, 1,400 acres of his beloved Beauty Ranch. Erin Ellis, who runs the rides with her husband, Dominic Bettinelli, employs rescue horses and has been riding through Glen Ellen since she was a child. Hour-long rides are $75 for small groups, $140 for a private tour. All rides include a tour of Jack London’s writing cottage, as well as tickets for complimentary tastings at Benziger Family Winery.

2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, 707-887-8700, triplecreekhorseoutfit.com

Off-the-Map Lake: Lake Suttonfield
Peel off the 1.2-mile, paved main path through Sonoma Valley Regional Park and make your way to Glen Ellen’s secret sweet spot. Lake Suttonfield, cradled in the hills surrounding the town, is a wee bit of England’s Lake District hidden in Wine Country. The 2-mile trail ringing the lake offers plenty of spots to lean back against an oak or dip your toes in the water. Because the reservoir is part of Sonoma Developmental Center, it doesn’t appear on maps of the regional park, leaving it largely unexplored except by locals. To get there from the main park path, take the East Sutton Lake Trail, to your left from the parking lot on Highway 12.

13630 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen

Lake Suttonfield, Glen Ellen. (photo by Crista Jeremiason) — Lake Suttonfield, Glen Ellen. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

A Vision from Above: The Sea Ranch Chapel
The hobbit-size Sea Ranch Chapel in Gualala looks like it soared down from the clouds, landing with its wings spread on a private, tree-studded meadow off Highway 1 and overlooking the Sonoma Coast. Designed by James Hubbell in 1985, the volunteer-maintained structure is graceful, Gaudian and somewhat bizarre. Just 360 square feet, the chapel seems to dance with its beautiful roof plumes, shell-curved wood siding, ceramic accents and stained glass spilling light to the mosaic tile floor. Open daily for tours and meditation.

Highway 1 at Sonoma Mile Marker 55.66, across from Bosun’s Reach Street, 707-785-2444, thesearanchchapel.org

Sea Ranch Chapel (photo: Sea Ranch Chapel) — Sea Ranch Chapel (Photo by Sea Ranch Chapel)

5 Rich Reds Under $30

October 2016

By Peg Melnik

Strapped?

When you’re struggling to pay the mortgage, a pricey pinot noir is out, but luckily there are plenty of other wines that will help keep your bills and your house in good stead. Here’s a line-up of tasty values, with most under $20.

Z, 2013 Seven Deadly Zins, Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel, 15%, $16. This zin has a great concentration of black and red fruit, with a kick of snappy spice. Notes of blackberry, cherry, tobacco and cracked black pepper. Nice length. Sassy finish.

McManis, 2014 California Petite Sirah, 14%, $11. A dense petite sirah with notes of blackberry, herbs and pepper. A less rugged version of petite sirah. Ripe tannins. Lingering finish.

Monte Volpe, 2013 Mendocino County Montepulciano, 14.5%, $28. A robust red that’s earthy and meaty. Beautiful ripe berries meet smoke and pepper. Bright acidity. Firm tannins. Edgy.

Cycles Gladiator, 2014 Central Coast Petite Sirah, 15%, $11. A hefty petite sirah with boisterous fruit and spice. Aromas and flavors of blueberry, plum, toasty oak and cracked black pepper. This is a feisty petite sirah, with plenty of pepper to give it kick.

District 3, 2014 Sonoma County Red Blend, 13.8%, $19. An incredible price for this tasty red blend. Notes of bright cherry vibrant fruit, light toast and pepper. Crisp acidity. Lingering finish. Bravo.

How to get advance tickets for Healdsburg’s biggest 2017 restaurant opening

October 2016

By biteclub

Chef Kyle Connaughton and his wife, Katina Connaughton, will open Single Thread Farms and Inn in Healdsburg. Photo courtesy of Sally Egan.

Tickets for this year’s greatest foodie show on earth, or at least in Healdsburg, are about to go on sale.

Single Thread restaurant, the much-anticipated haute farm-to-table dining experience that’s been called the biggest restaurant opening of 2016, will open ticket sales on October 21, 2016. The restaurant is expected to open in November, and tickets will be available for all of 2017.

Don’t want to wait? Folks who sign up for the Single Thread newsletter by October 14 will get a one week head start on weeknight reservations as well as first dibs on a special overnight package at the Healdsburg property. The overnight includes dinner and breakfast for two.

Why tickets? The restaurant is following a trend of restaurants like SF’s Lazy Bear and Saison requiring pre-paid dining experiences that eliminate any onsite cash exchange and allow the restaurant create a highly bespoke experience for diners. It also means, however, that you won’t be sitting on the phone for hours trying to get through to the restaurant.

Details online at singlthreadfarms.com.

For lots more details on the Chef Kyle Connaughton and his wife/restaurant farmer Katina, click here.

Don’t Miss: Halloween Covers Show at the Phoenix in Petaluma

October 2016

By Estefany Gonzalez

This Saturday, treat yourself to a night of sinfully sweet takes on your favorite tracks as the Halloween Covers Show takes the stage at The Phoenix Theatre in Petaluma.

A popular event on the local underground music scene, the Halloween Covers Show gives musicians a chance to playfully reinvent themselves as different artists for a one-time special performance. This year’s lineup includes local versions of bands like U2, Misfits, Foo Fighters, AC/DC and Nirvana.

“We’ve been practicing for almost every week for a few months,” said Casey Colby, frontman of Nirvana cover band Negative Creeps.

Casey Colby of the Negative Creeps will channel Kurt Cobain (pictured) at Saturday’s Halloween Cover Show at the Phoenix Theater in Petaluma. (Marjan Janevski / Shutterstock.com)

Much like most of the artists on the bill, the Nirvana cover band is very different to Colby’s main musical project, The Down House, a shoegaze band with influences such as The Jesus and Mary Chain and The Ronettes. For Colby, this is a chance to pay tribute to one of his favorite bands, “Nirvana is one of the first bands I ever listened to and the songs are really fun to play.”

Solo artist Jon Courage will be performing in U2 cover band Rattle & Hum. (Photo by Estefany Gonzalez) — Solo artist Jon Courage will be performing with U2 cover band Rattle & Hum. (Photo by Estefany Gonzalez)

The show, which started out as a house party in Santa Rosa, was nearly cancelled this year due to the limited capacity of the house it had previously been hosted in. It was saved by the Phoenix Theater’s talent booker Jim Agius who, together with Phoenix’s general manager of 30 years, Tom Gaffey, decided to give the show a new home.

“It just seemed like such a shame to let that show just go away,” Agius said.

Agius and Gaffey are committed to preserve the event’s tight-knit community feel at the larger venue.

“To make it feel personal, we’re going to have the performance take place on a stage in front of the stage, then have Halloween decoration behind everybody on the stage,” said Agius “It’ll be more like a floor show, but we’ll be using the house [sound] system.”

And the music will indeed take center stage at the Phoenix, “I think that at the house it was party first and music show second,” Agius said. “That’s definitely going to switch…the emphasis is going to be on the music.”

The Halloween Cover Show

Where: The Phoenix Theatre, 201 Washington St, Petaluma, CA 94952
When: Saturday, October 29, 2016, Doors: 7:00 pm / Show: 7:30 pm
Tickets: thephoenixtheater.com $10.00

Bands/Set Times:

7PM – Doors

7:30PM – System of a Down (undō)

8PM – Nerve Agents (Carpe Diem)

8:30PM – New York Dolls (Bad Girl)

9PM – Foo Fighters (Food Eaters)

9:30PM – AC/DC (Back in Bloom)

10PM – Misfits (The Astrofucks)

10:30PM – Nirvana (Negative Creeps)

11PM – U2 (Rattle & Hum)

12 Things Not to Miss at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest

October 2016

By Jess Poshepny Vallery

This Saturday, SOMO Concerts is putting on its season grand finale, the Fünkendänk Oktoberfest. This brand new beer and music experience is hosted in collaboration with RateBeer.com, HopMonk, The Press Democrat and Mead Clark, and will feature two of the craft beer industry’s fastest growing beer styles: sours and hoppy beers, as well as gourmet bites and live music from seven national touring acts and local bands. Here’s what not to miss:

Sample sours from Almanac Beer Co. and Shady Oak Barrel House. Since Almanac Beer Co. and Shady Oak Barrel House do not have taprooms (their beers are only available in bottle), this is a great opportunity to taste these hard to find, classic sours.

Sip on danky hop forward beers from Fieldwork Brewing Company, Cellarmaker Brewing Company, Cooperage Brewing, Faction Brewing, and Sante Adairius Rustic Ales. At present, some of these brewers only bottle their beers in very limited quantities and the others do not bottle at all, so the best way to get your hands on them is to visit the actual brewery/taproom. Saturday’s event will gather them all in one tent.

Steve Doty is the one-man show behind Shady Oak Barrel House, in Santa Rosa. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat) — Steve Doty is the one-man show producing beer for his Shady Oak Barrel House, in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Try “beer geek” hoppy favorites Modern Times Beer, Monkish Brewing Co., and Noble Ale Works. These three Los Angeles-based breweries will come up north for the event to share their tasty brews.

Meet brewery owners and taste news brews in the Rate Beer tent. Breweries will be bringing out their best, most funky sours and their hoppiest, most dankalicious beers for this inaugural event.

Listen and dance to jazz and funk band Galactic. This six-member group from New Orleans describe their sound as “swamp-funk.” Through near-constant touring since breaking into the music scene in 1994, the band has made a name for themselves and they’re sure to get your body groovin’.

And don’t miss Royal Jelly Jive. Started in San Francisco’s Boom Boom Room in 2013, this Bay Area-born band offers an eclectic blend of swing, rock, soul and hip-hop. The group has garnered a devoted fan base with their sultry sounds, gritty keys, swingin’ horns, and songwriting talent.

Lauren Michelle Bjelde and Royal Jelly Jive combine elements of Soul, Rock, Swing and Hip-Hop. (www.royaljellyjive.com)

For more information and tickets, visit SOMO Concerts or fünkendänk.com.
VIPs are granted access at 12:30 pm, General Admission at 2:00 pm. Ticket prices: $49 General Admission, $69 Taster, $39 Ticket and $140 VIP. Now: buy 4 tickets and only pay for 3.

SOMO Village 1400 Valley House Dr #110, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, (707) 795-3550, www.somoconcerts.com,

Things to Do this Week in Sonoma County, Oct. 20-30

October 2016

By Crissi Langwell

This weekend, you can have pancakes and support a good cause at Windsor High Boosters and Windsor VFW fundraising Pancake Breakfast. (The pancakes in the picture are served at Wishbone in Petaluma)

Ready for some fun? We have a few ideas. This weekend, enjoy a live performance of the Rocky Horror Picture Show, the Funkendank Oktoberfest beer and music festival, Petaluma’s River Heritage Celebration and more. It’s all in our list of things to do!

FRIDAY, Oct. 21

Sonoma Laughfest: Laugh yourself silly with 14 shows over four nights of comedy at the Sonoma Community Center. 100+ comedians will take the stage, tickling your funny bone throughout the weekend. Tickets are $14 in advance. Find out all the details at sonomalaughfest.com. (Oct. 20-23)

Alexander Valley Film Festival: This weekend, watch more than two dozen vetted films for the 2nd annual Alexander Valley Film Festival. The event will include an opening night film and block party at Clover Theater on Friday, a classic film under the stars at Francis Ford Coppola Winery on Saturday, and a closing night film and awards reception at the Raven Film Center on Sunday. For tickets and information, visit avfilmsociety.org. (Oct. 20-23)

Live performance of Rocky Horror Picture Show: The 6th Street players present a live-action performance of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Every line and song is true to the original for this Santa Rosa tradition. Performances are Thursdays through Sunday. Admission is $10-$26. Purchase tickets at 6thstreetplayhouse.com. (Oct. 21-Nov. 13)

River Heritage Celebration: This weekend, enjoy a full slate of events celebrating Petaluma’s past as a river town. The three days of fun will include a barn dance and dinner, a flotilla ride down the river, movie night on the Alma in the Turning Basin and more. Many events this weekend are free. Find out all the details at friendsofthepetalumariver.org/project/celebrate. (Oct. 21-23)

Paula Poundstone: The Luther Burbank Center for the Arts presents comedian Paula Poundstone for a night of hilarious comedy. Tickets to the 8 p.m. show are $29-$39. Find out more information at lutherburbankcenter.org.

This weekend, enjoy a full slate of events celebrating Petaluma’s past as a river town at River Heritage Days. (Photo by John Burgess)

SATURDAY, Oct. 22

Funkendank: In its season finale of concert pop-up festivals, SOMO Concerts is bringing down the house with Funkendank Oktoberfest, a brand new beer and music experience. The event will celebrate some of the nation’s top brewers, including several local favorites. There will also be live music and gourmet appetizers for all tastes. This 21-plus event runs 2-8 p.m., and tickets are $49-$140. Find out all the details at funkendank.com.

Tolay Fall Festival: Enjoy the final weekend of family fun with hay rides, a giant pumpkin patch, a “creatures” barn, straw maze and more at Tolay Lake Regional Park in Petaluma. Admission is $3-$5 with $7 parking. Purchase tickets at pd2go.net/TolayFallFestival. (Oct. 22-23)

YMCA Halloween Carnival: Dress up and enjoy some family fun entertainment from 4-7 p.m. at the Sonoma County YMCA in Santa Rosa for their annual Halloween Carnival. Admission is $5 adults, $5 kids. Kids under 2 free. More information at scfymca.org.

North Bay Ukulele Festival: This Saturday, bring your ukulele to the Arlene Francis Center in Santa Rosa for their inaugural Ukulele Festival. Starting at 4 p.m., the afternoon will include jam sessions, performances, workshops and more. Admission is free. Find out more at northbayukulelefestival.weebly.com.

SUNDAY, Oct. 23

Pancakes!: Get your fill of pancakes when the Windsor High Boosters and Windsor VFW hold a fundraising Pancake Breakfast this Sunday at the Windsor Town Green Stage area. The menu includes pancakes, pumpkin pancakes, eggs, sausage and more. The breakfast takes place 9 a.m. to noon, and prices are $2-$10. Find out more at their Facebook page.

Tomatito: Flamenco guitarist José Fernández Torres, Tomatito to fans, 7 p.m. Sunday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35-$85. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.

More Upcoming Events…

Friday, Oct. 21

Kim Simmonds and Savoy Brown: British blues-rock institution, 8 p.m., HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $25-$50. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.

Rudolf Budginas: ‘Piano Unlimited,’ Santa Rosa Junior College Chamber Concert series, 7:30 p.m., Ellis Auditorium, SRJC Petaluma campus. $15-$26. (415) 392-4400, santarosa.edu/chamber-concerts.

Saturday, Oct. 22

‘Floribunda’: Opening reception for exhibit showcasing Hunt Institute botanicals, 5-7 Saturday, Petaluma Arts Center. Free. Runs through Dec. 11. 762-5600, petalumaartscenter.org.

Banshee Fest: Pinot tasting and exploration, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Healdsburg SHED. $90. Lord Huron 1 p.m. concert sold out. bansheewines.com.

Denis Matsuev: Piano virtuoso, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35-$85. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.

Sunday, Oct. 23

Pinot on the River: Grand Tasting, 100-plus wineries and artisan food, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Healdsburg Plaza. $75-$90. pinotfestival.com.

Santa Rosa Symphony Pops: Maestro Michael Berkowitz leads a program of greatest musical hits, 3 p.m. Sunday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $37-$80. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.

Monday, Oct. 24

Mike Love: Book signing and discussion with the Beach Boys frontman and ‘Good Vibrations’ author, 7 p.m. Monday, Copperfield’s Books, Petaluma. $30.31 book and pass. 762-0563, copperfieldsbooks.com.

Tuesday, Oct. 25

Chris Botti: Jazz trumpeter opens new jazz club, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, Blue Note Napa. Also 8:30 p.m. Oct. 28, Opera House Ballroom, Napa. $65-$125. 603-1258, bluenotenapa.com.

Jethro Tull: Ian Anderson, rock band’s singer and flutist, 8 p.m. Tuesday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $55-$69. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.

Wednesday, Oct. 26

‘Don Giovanni’: Metropolitan Opera Live screening of the Mozart opera, 1 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Rialto Cinemas, Sebastopol. $18-$25. 829-3456, rialtocinemas.com.

Thursday, Oct. 27

Mario Batali: Restaurateur and ‘Big American Cookbook’ author, 7 p.m. Thursday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $66 includes signed cookbook. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.

‘John, Paul, George & Django’: The Hot Club of San Francisco CD release concert, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Cinnabar Theater, Petaluma. $20-$25. 763-8920, cinnabartheater.org.

Friday, Oct. 28

Ice-T: ‘Overcoming the Impossible’ lecture with the gangster rapper, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 28, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $40. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.

Petaluma International Film Festival: Independent feature and short films, various times Oct. 28-30, Boulevard Cinemas, Petaluma. $12-$180. (415) 251-8433, petalumafilmfestival.org.

Cirque du Sebastopol: Vintage circus days, live music and entertainment, 8:45 p.m. Oct. 28 and 9 p.m. Oct. 29, HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $15-$35. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.

Supernatural Soiree: Sea-bound voyage theme, live music, 9:30 p.m. Oct. 28, Bergamot Alley, Healdsburg. $50. 433-8720, bergamotalley.com.

Saturday, Oct. 29

Richard Thompson & The Blind Boys of Alabama: Renowned guitarist and roots music band, 8 p.m. Oct. 29, Uptown Theatre, Napa. $45-$65. 259-0123, uptowntheatrenapa.com.

‘Bouquets to the Dead’: Artistic displays honoring late ancestors, dawn to dusk, Oct. 29-30, Sonoma Mountain Cemetery. Free. facebook.com/bouquetstothedead.

Halloween Party: Come in costume for dancing to Frobeck, Mr. Music & Love Choir, 7:30 p.m.-midnight Oct. 29, Sebastopol Community Cultural Center. $12-$15. 823-1511, seb.org.

Foreverland: San Francisco-based 14-piece Michael Jackson tribute band, 8:30 p.m. Oct. 29, Mystic Theatre, Petaluma. $22. 765-2121, mystictheatre.com.

Halloween at Howarth: Trick-or-treating and activities for costumed kids 12 and younger, 11:30 a.m., 12:45 and 2 p.m. Oct. 29, Howarth Park, Santa Rosa. $5-$12. 543-3737, pd2go.net/HalloweenAtHowarth.

Sonoma County Farm Trails: Fall Feast Fundraiser, Dinner and Auction, featuring the 4-H Heritage Turkey Auction
Tresch Barn at Olympia’s Valley Estate in Petaluma. The event takes place this Saturday, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $150. www.farmtrails.org

Sunday, Oct. 30

Will Durst: ‘Elect to Laugh’ standup comedy and theater show poking fun at the presidential election, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30, Cinnabar Theater, Petaluma. $25-$30. 763-8920, cinnabartheater.org.

Zakir Hussain Niladri Kumar: World musicians on the tabla and sitar, 3 p.m. Oct. 30, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35-$85. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.

Funkendank Oktoberfest: A Funky & Danky First

October 2016

By Jess Poshepny Vallery

There was something for everyone at Sonoma County’s first Funkendank Oktoberfest, hosted on Saturday, October 22. People from all walks of life came to SOMO Village in Rohnert Park to sample some of the nation’s top hop-forward brews and sours, while munching on locally sourced small bites to the sound of some funky beats.

Beer lovers enjoying the lineup at Sonoma County's Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery) — Beer lovers enjoying the lineup at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 22, 2016. (Photo by Tim Vallery)

Some attendees showed up in their best Oktoberfest get-ups and posed for pictures, while other guests wore favorite beer shirts and hats to support their beloved breweries. Attendees happily sipped on a variety of brews, while chatting with fellow beer lovers.

“I have been sipping on Santa Adarius because their beers taste more like wine” said Vivian Fenn of Rohnert Park.

“The Faction Brewery Double IPA is the best Double IPA I’ve ever had. I may be a little biased, because they make a beer for our annual NorCal Beer Geeks Festival, but it’s so smooth”, said Peter Lopez Jr. of the Norcal Beer Geeks group.

“This is a great lineup, a lot of local and Bay Area breweries you don’t always see at beer events” stated Jeff Bull of Santa Rosa as he happily sipped on a Monkish IPA.

"Fridge" poses with beer lovers at Sonoma County's Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery) — “Fridge” poses with beer lovers at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest on October 22, 2016. (Photo by Tim Vallery)

Ankara Cory had to show ID before she could sample the craft beers at the FunkenDank music and beer festival at Sonoma Mountain Village Event Center in Rohnert Park on Saturday, October 22, 2016. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Ankara Cory had to show ID before she could sample the craft beers at the Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by John Burgess)

People ordering beer from Gordon Biersch's Oktoberfest bar at Sonoma County's Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery) — Guests ordering beer from Gordon Biersch’s Oktoberfest bar at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest on October 22, 2016. (Photo by Tim Vallery)

Over 20 craft breweries poured their best for the patrons at the FunkenDank music and beer festival at Sonoma Mountain Village Event Center in Rohnert Park on Saturday, October 22, 2016. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Over 20 craft breweries poured their best for the patrons at the Funkendank Oktoberfest (Photo by John Burgess)

The rooms and grounds at SOMO Village quickly became filled with people and, when the Dixie Giants took the stage, the crowd got moving as the band took their show “on the road,” walking through the venue and grounds while playing their horns.

The Dixie Giants at Sonoma County's Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery) — Royal Jelly Jive perform at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery)

The Dixie Giants entertain the crowd at the FunkenDank music and beer festival at Sonoma Mountain Village Event Center in Rohnert Park on Saturday, October 22, 2016. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — The Dixie Giants entertain the crowd at the Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by John Burgess)

Later, the crowd was gettin’ down to the funky sound of Royal Jelly Jive, The Pimps of Joytime, and Big Sam’s Funky Nation. Some were so into the music they never stopped groovin’. Others relaxed on their blankets, beer in hand, while waiting for the grand finale: Galactic.

People relaxing at Sonoma County's Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery) — People relaxing at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery)

Restauranteur Mark Stark, right, touts his smoked beet salad for foodies at the Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery)

The event was popular with beer and music lovers alike.

“I’m never going to another beer festival that has music. Everything Joe puts on seems to be the best” expressed Jimmy Madden of Santa Rosa, as he sipped on Cooperage Brewery‘s “Danky Leg”.

“The event was a big success. About 2,000 people came to the event and we had a great time. While we had some challenges, we got a lot of rave reviews; we learned a lot and will be back next year with more beer and music,” said Joe Tucker from Ratebeer, one of the organizers of Funkendank Octoberfest.

Joe and Jennifer Tucker of Ratebeer.com at the Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery)

Stay tuned for updates on the next Funkendank Oktoberfest.

How to Celebrate a Horrifying Halloween in Sonoma County

October 2016

By Estefany Gonzalez

Chainsaw-weilding actor Nate Friedman, left, emerges from behind a curtain to scare Kaitlyn Bradley and her friends in the Slaughter Shack at Blind Scream Haunted House, in Rohnert Park, California on Wednesday, October 19, 2016. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat) Blind Scream Haunted House — Chainsaw-weilding actor Nate Friedman, left, emerges from behind a curtain to scare Kaitlyn Bradley and her friends in the Slaughter Shack at Blind Scream Haunted House, in Rohnert Park. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

Adrenaline pumping, chills running down your spine, neck hairs raising, screams and hysteric laughter… what’s Halloween without few good scares? If you dare, check out these local haunted houses that are bound to make your skin crawl… Bringing kids? We’ve included two low-terror options.

Blind Scream — Rohnert Park

Blind Scream is the ultimate scare-land for fear fanatics. Covering 25,000 square feet at the Sonoma Mountain Village, this is the biggest haunted house attraction in Sonoma County. The them park is divided into three haunted houses: Uncle Chuckles 3D Madhouse, an insane asylum from hell; Blackout, a sensory focused house with smells and sounds that will make your blood freeze; and Slaughter Shack, a backlit 3D maze which takes you trough the woods as you escape from hungry Lil Horrus. There are more than 100 volunteer actors at Blind Scream, all committed to making your believe you should fear for your life. The attractions are all indoor.

1500 Valley House Drive, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, (707) 837-1928, blindscream.com

Emily Quintas creeps around a room scaring passersby inside Uncle Chuckle's 3D Mad House at Blind Scream Haunted House, in Rohnert Park, California on Wednesday, October 19, 2016. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat) Blind Scream Haunted House Alvin Jornada — Emily Quintas creeps around a room scaring passersby inside Uncle Chuckle’s 3D Mad House at Blind Scream Haunted House, in Rohnert Park. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

AJ1019_BLINDSCREAM_09_801185 — Desiree Sizemore, right, screams as actor Emily Quintas, left, jumps towards her inside Uncle Chuckle’s 3D Mad House at Blind Scream Haunted House, in Rohnert Park (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

NorCal Fear — Petaluma

NorCal Fear, located at the Petaluma fairgrounds, sets the sinister stage for a mental-asylum mayhem that will have you scream your guts out. Unlike most haunted houses, this Halloween attraction follows a real time storyline: attendees are engaged in a rescue mission to save a few sane souls stuck in an old-school — and absolutely terrifying — mental asylum where the patients have revolted against cruel nurses and evil doctors. Left at the mercy of some of the asylum’s most violent patients, attendees must complete a journey around the theme house and find their way out.

NorCal Fear, Petaluma Fairgrounds, 75 Fairgrounds Dr, Petaluma, CA 94952, norcalfear.com

NorCal Fear's "Bedlam Asylum." — NorCal Fear’s “Bedlam Asylum.”

TWO LOW-TERROR OPTIONS:

Haunted Dojo – Santa Rosa

Family Martial Arts Center of Santa Rosa puts on a suitably spooky family friendly Halloween event that won’t keep the little ones up at night. Their haunted house offers two levels on the “scare-o-meter;” the first one with lights on and sound-effects off (for 6-year olds and under), and the other with lights off and sound-effects on (for everyone else). The event also features kids carnival games, a bounce house, fair style food, trick-or-treat booths and a kids costume contest.

Sensei Spooky’s Haunted Dojo, 320 Tesconi Cir, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, myfamilymartialarts.com/haunted-dojo

Mermaids cheer as Peter Pan makes Captain Hook walk the plank during Halloween at the McDonald Mansion decorated to illustrate "Peter Pan" in Santa Rosa, California on Saturday, October 31, 2015. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat) Alvin Jornada — Mermaids cheer as Peter Pan makes Captain Hook walk the plank during Halloween at the McDonald Mansion in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

McDonald Avenue & McDonald Mansion — Santa Rosa

Every year in October, McDonald Avenue in Santa Rosa gets decked out in over-the-top Halloween decor. This is a great trick-or-treat destination; soak up some spooky sensations as you walk down a street lined with houses old enough to host generations of ghosts, then end your Halloween outing at the McDonald mansion. This stick-style Victorian home, also known as Mableton, was built in 1877 and was used in the filming of Walt Disney’s “Polyanna.” From Hollywood to Halloween, the McDonald Mansion continues to be a Sonoma County star. Over the past 15 years, owners John and Jennifer Webley have created ever-expanding, and awe-inspiring, decorations together with family, friends and volunteers. On October 31, at 5 p.m., the Webleys open their home to the public and welcome guests of all ages to an afternoon of terrific trick-or-treating.

McDonald Mansion (Mableton), 1015 McDonald Ave, Santa Rosa, California, facebook.com/McDonaldMansion

Looking for more things to do in Sonoma County? Click here.