Small Town America

Sonoma County

 

Guerneville, CA

Quirky, eclectic and off the beaten path, Guerneville is situated in the heart of the Russian River Valley. The town that once owed its fortunes to logging, now embraces one of the most pristine redwood groves still standing - Armstrong Woods. Guerneville exudes small-town charm. The town plaza, with its permanent chess tables and small shops, provides a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Visitors are offered lodging, dining, shopping, activities, entertainment and more for vacations or weekend getaways.

(877)644-9001

www.russianriver.com

 

Occidental, CA

Tucked in the redwoods between Freestone and Monte Rio is the lovely hamlet of Occidental. Originally the last stop west for the Pacific Railroad, Occidental now boasts a population of approximately 200 people living within the town boundaries. Made up of new and old-timers it is populated by a remarkable blend of people and hosts a variety of exceptional restaurants and unique shops. Occidental boasts excellent lodging in town near the shops and restaurants. The area is especially sought out by cyclist and car clubs for its central location and challenging routes between the coast and the redwoods.

www.bohemianconnection.com

Mendocino County

 

Point Arena, CA

Point Arena is the smallest "city" in Mendocino County and yet Point Arena has lodging, restaurants, shops, a community library, a campground, the CITYART gallery and the magnificent Art Deco-style Arena Theatre which produces a number of live shows every month including musical groups, stand-up comedy, magic shows, dance and theatrical productions and houses Arena Cinema, which shows first-run films and hosts the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival in January. The Point Arena Lighthouse and Museum, a historical sentinel just north of town, is a landmark for the area, and the only Pacific West coast lighthouse of significant height (115 feet) that you can climb to the top!

(800)778-5252
 www.pointarena.net
www.redwoodcoastchamber.com/pt_arena.htm

 

Willits, CA

Willits is a small rural community located on U.S. Highway 101 approximately 140 miles north of San Francisco. Willits is a town rich in history with beautiful scenery, from rolling hills to picturesque ranches dotting the landscape. Named after Hiram Willits, it was settled by pioneering ranchers in the 1850's. Willits is the eastern terminus of the world famous "Skunk Train" which thousands of travelers continue to enjoy and ride each year. We are also home to the Mendocino County Museum. The museum has one of the finest collections of Pomo and Yuki Baskets in the world! The Roots of Motive Power Antique Steam Logging Equipment Display is an actual working exhibit of logging equipment used at the turn-of-the-century.

(707)459-7910

www.willits.org

 

Lake County

 

Kelseyville, CA

Though its downtown area is only a few blocks in length, Kelseyville’s Main Street is full of adventure. Three tasting rooms and a fourth just a short drive down the road, a bakery, music store, coffee house and deli, restaurant exhibiting local art, antique store, two flower shops, and a bead shop are just a few popular stop-offs along the sidewalks, lined with flowering pear trees, historic streetlamps, and cozy benches. And this is only one small portion of vast Kelseyville, known as the pear capital of the world through the 20th century. Each September, the community celebrates its ongoing agricultural heritage with an annual Pear Festival, held the last Saturday in September.

www.VisitKelseyville.com

 

Lakeport, CA

Located on the west shore of Clear Lake, the city of Lakeport is the oldest incorporated (1888) community in Lake County and also is home to the County seat. The historic downtown area is designated a California Main Street City, and Main Street is a hub for shopping - from novelties, home decor, jewelry, clothing, and gift items to water sports gear, bicycles, books, and confectioners. Also, be sure to catch a show at the local drive-in, just down the road at the Lakeport Auto Movies, one of few drive-ins still in operation today. Lakeport Auto Movies is open weekends during summer, offering double-feature specials for all ages. Moviegoers without audio need not worry; rentals are available for a mere quarter at the concession stand, along with all sorts of treats. It’s a good deal and a fun time to watch the latest films on an enormous screen under the star-filled sky.

52 Soda Bay Road

Lakeport, CA

(707)263-5011

www.LakeportCinema.com

 

Humboldt County

 

Arcata, CA

A special place where you will experience the magic of California’s north coast. With a friendly population of nearly 18,000, Arcata enjoys a unique quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the “Six Rivers” of Humboldt and Del Norte Arcata from the BayCounties, the city is surrounded by redwood-forested coastal mountains to the east and the beautiful Pacific Ocean to the west. The Mad River flows to the north of the community and the world-famous Arcata Marsh, a project which uses a marsh system to provide secondary treatment for the City's waste water, wildlife habitat and passive public recreation, lies between the city and the Humboldt Bay on the south. This community takes great pride in being environmentally responsible.

www.arcatacityhall.org

 

Ferndale, CA

Nestled between the two redwood forests in a thriving dairy community, you may discover Northern California's best-kept secret, The Victorian Village of Ferndale. Park your car to step back in time. Enjoy magnificently preserved Victorian architecture as you stroll; pick up visitor information from any shop. On the National Register of Historic Places, Ferndale's Main Street is a photographer's paradise and a shopper's delight.

www.humboldt1.com/chamber

525 S. Main Street
Ukiah, CA 95482
Main: 866-GOMENDO Fax: 707-462-7598
Email: [email protected]