Cloverdale, located at the northern end of Sonoma County, has maintained its status as a lesser-known destination despite being previously recognized as one of the coolest small towns in America. The town features its own wine appellation, an emerging culinary scene, and historic character centered around a cobblestone town plaza.
Visitors can begin their day at Plank Coffee, which roasts its own beans and serves local products like juices and baked goods from Healdsburg Bagel Company. On Wednesday evenings between April and November, offerings expand to include items sourced from the Cloverdale Tuesday Farmers’ Market.
The Gould-Shaw House Museum provides insight into 19th-century life with its Gothic-Revival architecture and period furnishings. Adjacent to the museum is the Cloverdale Historical Society’s History Center, which houses a collection of 65,000 artifacts spanning antique farm equipment to Native American art.
Public art is prominent through the Cloverdale Sculpture Trail, featuring more than 30 outdoor sculptures that change over time. Notable works include abstract geometric pieces and themed figures such as a Wine Buddha and “pigasus.” Murals on Cloverdale Boulevard also depict scenes from the town’s early history.
Outdoor enthusiasts can access the Russian River via Cloverdale River Park for kayaking or canoeing along a mile-long scenic trail that includes picnic facilities. The area’s wineries stretch across several valleys—Dry Creek, Anderson, Russian River, and Alexander—with options ranging from cave tours at Fritz Underground Winery to hillside tastings at BobDog Winery in Pine-Mountain-Cloverdale Peak AVA. At J. Rickards Winery, visitors who call ahead can enjoy prepared picnics under shaded trees.
For those interested in beer rather than wine, Wolf House Brewing Company offers several beers on tap including Sticky Paws IPA and Midnight Delight Malt Lager.
Dining options focus on comfort food such as barbecue at Hamburger Ranch & BBQ or classic burgers at Pick’s Drive In—a local institution since 1923 that maintains its traditional menu under new ownership. The Railroad Station Bar and Grill is also known for burgers and pot roast.
The performing arts are represented by the Cloverdale Performing Arts Center with seating for 99 guests and a schedule that includes plays like John Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men” alongside musical performances and storytelling events.
Accommodation choices range from ranch-style lodgings like Old Crocker Inn—which dates back to the 1880s—to Kelley & Young Wine Garden Inn housed in a Queen Anne Victorian listed on the U.S. Register of Historic Places. For those preferring camping with views of Alexander Valley vineyards, there is the Cloverdale Wine Country KOA Campground offering cabins as well as tent and RV sites equipped with modern amenities.
