Geography site WorldAtlas recently released a list of eight timeless towns in California — quiet locations off the beaten path, steeped in rich Golden State history. From Los Angeles county to the North Coast, two local destinations made the list for their long-lasting significance to the state: Sonoma and Healdsburg.
“These eight California towns provide a unique glimpse into a simpler, historic lifestyle, transcending the usual tourist trails with their rich legacies and picturesque charm,” WorldAtlas stated.
Beyond the tourist hotspots and heavily publicized establishments, here’s where to go in Sonoma and Healdsburg to experience the towns’ timelessness.
Sonoma
As the birthplace of the state’s Bear Flag, Sonoma honors its place in California history with a monument on the town plaza commemorating the 1846 Bear Flag Revolt that took place in the heart of the county.
Other vestiges of times past can also be found in the town, like the old Sonoma Barracks, the Mission San Francisco Solano and Gen. Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo’s abode. Tourists and residents alike can learn more local history via a free Sonoma Plaza History Tour in and around Sonoma State Historic Park. The park comprises several historical sites within walking distance of the plaza.
For a taste of modern culture, WorldAtlas noted the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art (551 Broadway), where you’ll find rotating exhibits featuring acclaimed Bay Area artists. The Sebastiani Theatre, opened in 1934, provides an eclectic mix of comedy acts, indie movies, local concert performances and more.
Stay near the plaza to find some of the best places to eat. For brunch, try a farm-fresh egg sandwich or avocado toast with mimosas while dining on the garden patio of Sunflower Caffe. The Girl & The Fig offers innovative French fare like wild flounder meunière and steak au poivre. If you want to extend your local history tour, head over to the Swiss Hotel — which has been around since the late 1800s — for wood-fired pizza, chicken parmesan and housemade butternut squash ravioli.
Finish your Sonoma day trip with a pint of Guinness and live music at Murphy’s Irish Pub. Or try a glass of local natural wine in Sonoma’s new communal wine tasting space, Dos’ Bar.
Healdsburg
The town of Healdsburg is anchored by its historic Plaza, established in 1857. WorldAtlas noted Healdsburg’s prominence as an early winegrowing region, with early settlers “shaping a robust viticultural tradition.”
People can learn more about the town’s history at the Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society, which features rotating exhibits and houses collections of historic tools, furnishings, paintings and Indigenous artifacts. For a more modern speed, check out the Healdsburg Center for the Arts, where various local artists exhibit their work.
It’s no secret that Healdsburg has an impressive dining scene. Among the eateries WorldAtlas recommended are Costeaux French Bakery, Noble Folk Ice Cream & Pie Bar and Michelin-awarded SingleThread. After dinner, enjoy a natural wine tasting at Williamson Wines or sip Champagne at the Parisian-style Healdsburg Bubble Bar.
For more ideas of where to go, eat, sip and stay in Healdsburg, check here.