Sebastopol is the embodiment of Sonoma County’s spirit. Its hippie flare, laid-back artistic community and farm-to-table restaurants make it a hidden gem in the heart of wine country. If you’re looking for an interesting experience, here are our recommendations for a day in strange Sebastopol.
Sip Some Coffee with the Locals
Sebastopol is home to many interesting coffee shops, but one of our favorites is Hardcore Espresso. The main building is cluttered with paintings, crystals, and knickknacks. The outside is a garden of mismatched furniture and lots of plants. This is the place where the locals come to socialize, so grab a coffee and strike up a conversation.
Come See the World’s Largest Flesh-Eating Plant Nursery
California Carnivores is the largest botanical garden of carnivorous plants open to the public in the world. Come check out Venus flytraps, sundews, butterworts, and more.
Look at the Junk Art
Take a walk down Florence Avenue and see the colorful scrap metal sculptures dotting every lawn. This is the work of local artist Patrick Amiot, who turns junkyard metal into quirky sculptures of animals and people.
Do Some Shopping on Quirky Main St.
Spend some time browsing Sebastopol’s unique shops on Main St. Check out the colorful Funk & Flash, Cornerstone Reggae Culture Shop, and Cultivate Home.
Grab a Bite to eat at the Barlow
The Barlow is an upscale shopping area just a couple of minutes from Main St. What really makes it stand out though is that most of the shops and restaurants are in large metal warehouses, giving the area a vibe that is a unique cross between industrial and rustic. With many amazing restaurants, you’re sure to find something you like.
A Sweet Farewell
End the day with some amazing dessert. Screamin’ Mimi’s iconic pink building beckons you to come inside. The nationally-renowned ice cream parlor features many unique flavors made from local ingredients. Try the famous Mimi’s Mud.
If ice cream isn’t your thing, check out Mom’s Apple Pie on Gravenstein Highway. The famous apple pie is made with Gravenstein apples straight from their backyard orchard. It’s a literal farm-to-table experience.
Sebastopol is a quirky little town with lots to offer. Go check it out!
