• Where is Anderson Valley located?
    • Anderson Valley is a rural area located about 100 miles north of San Francisco.
  • What industries historically shaped Anderson Valley?
    • Timber was the first major resource to be exploited in the area.
    • Later, sheep farming, ranching, and the cultivation of apples and hops followed.
  • What happened to the timber and agricultural industries in Anderson Valley?
    • By the 1960s, the redwood forests had been decimated, leading to the decline of the timber industry.
    • Similarly, sheep farming and apple farming also declined.
  • What industry now drives Anderson Valley’s economy?
    • The wine industry emerged as the leading economic driver of the region.
  • Are there other popular beverages produced in Anderson Valley?
    • Yes! The region is home to several microbreweries, offering more than 200 different beers.
  • What cultural influences have shaped Anderson Valley?
    • The valley has attracted artists, musicians, writers, and craftspeople, adding an aesthetic appeal to the area.

This post may include affiliate links. Click here for Affiliate Disclosure.

1. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens


Walk through oceanfront gardens and admire vibrant blooms on a spring trip.

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

© Melastmohican/stock.adobe.com

  • Where are the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens located?
  • What is the history of the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens?
    • In 1893, David and Sarah Parish built their farmhouse on their allotment with the intention of raising potatoes and peas.
  • What is the Conservation and Education Center?
    • The original Parish farmhouse has been refurbished and is now the Conservation and Education Center.
  • What plant collections are featured at the gardens?
    • Among the collections in the gardens are:
      • Roses
      • Magnolias
      • Mushrooms
      • Heathers
      • Succulents
  • Are there guided tours available?
    • Yes, docent-led walks take place all year round.
  • Are plants available for purchase?
    • Yes, drought-tolerant and deer-resistant plants are sold at the nursery and during the spring and autumn plant sales.
  • What can visitors find at the Garden Shop?
    • The Garden Shop sells gifts, books, and garden accessories.
  • Is there a restaurant on-site?
    • Yes, but the restaurant is open in summer only.
  • Where are the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens located?
    • 18220 North Highway, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, Phone: 707-964-4352

2. Anderson Valley Historical Museum


Explore local artifacts and discover fascinating stories from the region’s past.

Anderson Valley Historical Museum

© breakingthewalls/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Anderson Valley Historical Museum?
    • The Anderson Valley Historical Museum is located half a mile from Boonville and showcases exhibits in four historic buildings depicting Native American heritage and the daily lives of early settlers.
  • What is the history of the Little Red Schoolhouse?
    • The Little Red Schoolhouse was in operation from 1891 to 1979.
  • What economic activities are highlighted in the museum?
    • The museum highlights the area's economic activities, including:
      • Farming
      • Ranching
      • The lumber industry
      • Fruit growing
  • What is Boontling?
    • The museum explains Boontling, which is Anderson Valley's own language.
  • What items are available for purchase at the museum shop?
    • The shop sells:
      • Books about the valley
      • Prints
      • Branded apparel
      • Bags
  • How does the museum participate in the Boonville Beer Festival?
    • Museum staff participate in the Boonville Beer Festival, handing out mementos and free water and soda.
  • Where is the Anderson Valley Historical Museum located?
    • 12340 Hwy 128, Boonville, CA, Phone: 707-895-3207

3. Bates & Mailliard Farmhouse Mercantile


Browse handmade goods and savor small-town charm on an easy weekend.

Bates & Mailliard Farmhouse Mercantile

© mnimage/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Bates & Mailliard Farmhouse Mercantile?
    • In the fall of 2005, the owners of The Apple Farm joined forces with Sandy Mailliard to open this general store.
  • What was the purpose of opening the store?
    • The store was intended to be a gathering place and a showcase of local talent and resources, including repurposed materials.
  • What products are available at Bates & Mailliard Farmhouse Mercantile?
    • The store offers:
      • Luxuries for the home
      • Jewelry
      • Art that reflects the history, traditions, and craftsmanship of the area
      • Collectibles from the region and around the world
  • Where is the store located?
    • It is housed in the old Farrer building across the street from the Boonville Hotel.
  • Where is Bates & Mailliard Farmhouse Mercantile located?

4. The Madrones


Visit elegant tasting rooms and enjoy a romantic retreat in wine country.

The Madrones

© Allen.G/stock.adobe.com

  • What is The Madrones?
    • The The Madrones is an Italianate complex near Philo that was originally a design center and creative think tank.
  • What architectural features does The Madrones have?
    • The cloistered rural homestead features courtyards, arcades, and a kitchen garden. It has received awards for architectural design.
  • What wineries have tasting rooms at The Madrones?
    • There are three distinctly different tasting rooms on the property, representing:
      • Drew
      • Smith-Story
      • Long Meadow Ranch wineries
  • What can visitors find at The Madrones shop?
    • The shop sells:
      • Antiques
      • Stationery
      • Curios
      • Gift items
  • What accommodation options are available at The Madrones?
    • The Madrones offers a range of overnight accommodations, including:
      • Family suites
      • Cabins among the redwoods
    • Guests must stay for a minimum of two nights.
  • Are there any special events at The Madrones?
    • A schedule of garden tours and artisan workshops is advertised locally.
  • Where is The Madrones located?
    • 9000 Highway 128, Philo, CA 95466, Phone: 707-895-2955

5. Ford House Museum & Visitor Center


Look at historic exhibits and learn about Mendocino’s maritime sights.

Ford House Museum & Visitor Center

© sergign/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Ford House Museum & Visitor Center?
    • The Ford House Museum & Visitor Center is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and serves as the Information Center for the Mendocino Headlands State Park.
  • Who built the Ford House?
    • The house was built in 1854 by Jerome Ford for his bride, Martha.
  • What was Jerome Ford’s role in Mendocino?
    • He was the superintendent of the first mill in the area and is thought to be a founder of Mendocino.
  • Where is the Ford House Museum located?
    • It is situated on the main street of Mendocino.
  • What are the exhibits at the Ford House Museum?
    • The museum houses several exhibits, including:
      • A scale model of Mendocino, circa 1890
      • Artifacts belonging to the Pomo Indians
      • Tools used in the logging trade
      • Seasonal displays depicting the wildlife and mushrooms found in the area
  • Where is the Ford House Museum & Visitor Center located?
    • 45035 Main Street, Mendocino, Phone: 707-937-5397

6. Goldeneye Winery, Anderson Valley


Savor fine pinot noir and admire vineyard views during a couples getaway.

Goldeneye Winery, Anderson Valley

© Africa Studio/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the history of the Duckhorn family as winemakers?
    • The Duckhorn family has a long history as winemakers, achieving success in the 1980s with Bordeaux varieties.
  • Why did the Duckhorn family choose the Anderson Valley for Pinot Noir?
    • In the 1990s, they sought to expand their range to include Pinot Noir wines and chose the Anderson Valley due to its cooling coastal fogs and clay soil.
  • What property did they acquire?
    • They purchased an 80-acre ranch, planted 12 acres of vineyard, and established a small winery.
  • How much wine does the vineyard produce?
    • The vineyard produces 7 tons of grapes annually, yielding enough for 375 cases of wine.
  • What other wines do the Duckhorns produce?
    • In addition to Pinot Noir, they also produce:
      • Gewürztraminer
      • Pinot Gris
      • Brut Rosé
  • What tasting experiences are available at Goldeneye Winery?
    • Tastings at Goldeneye Winery can be paired with food, or on occasion, with caviar.
  • What special events does Goldeneye Winery host?
    • Special events include Harvest Dinners and international wine-tasting tours.
  • Where is Goldeneye Winery located?
    • 9200 Highway 128, Philo, CA 95466, Phone: 866-367-9945

7. Hendy Woods State Park


Walk among towering redwoods and picnic in this affordable natural escape.

Hendy Woods State Park

© Drobot Dean/stock.adobe.com

  • What are the main redwood groves in Hendy Woods State Park?
    • There are two groves of towering redwoods in the park: Big Hendy and Little Hendy.
  • How tall and old are the redwood trees in Hendy Woods?
    • Many of the trees are over 300 feet tall and estimated to be more than 1000 years old.
  • What trails are available in Hendy Woods State Park?
    • There are five miles of trails through fern-filled forests and riverside meadows.
    • The Discovery Trail is 0.6 miles long and is wheelchair accessible.
    • The Hermit Trail passes some of the makeshift shelters used by a Russian immigrant who inhabited the area for 18 years. One of his homes was inside a downed redwood.
  • What seasonal activities are popular in Hendy Woods State Park?
    • Swimming is popular in the summer.
    • Canoeing and kayaking are best in late winter and early spring.
  • Where is Hendy Woods State Park located?

8. Kayak Mendocino


Paddle sea caves and spot marine life on an exciting summer adventure.

Kayak Mendocino

© yossarian6/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Kayak Mendocino?
    • Kayak Mendocino specializes in sea cave tours by kayak along the Mendocino coast.
  • How often do the sea cave tours operate?
    • Tours operate twice daily, entering narrow coves and two dark chambers.
  • What natural features can be seen during the tour?
    • The tours offer views of spectacular towering sandstone cliffs.
  • Are the tours suitable for all ages and skill levels?
    • Yes, the tours are suitable for all ages and skill levels.
  • What does the overnight tour include?
    • The overnight tour includes:
      • Starry nights
      • Camping for a night or more on secluded beaches
      • Dinner
      • Continental breakfast
  • What other excursions does Kayak Mendocino offer?
    • The company also offers stand-up paddling excursions on the Albion River.
  • Where is Kayak Mendocino located?
    • Van Damme Beach State Park CA-1, Little River, CA 95456, Phone: 707-813-7117

9. Kelley House Museum


See coastal history unfold and explore exhibits perfect for curious kids.

Kelley House Museum

© Kelley House Museum

  • Who lived in the Kelley House?
    • William Henry Kelley, his wife Elizabeth, and their four children occupied this house in the latter half of the 19th century.
  • What features does the Kelley House have?
    • The house has an ocean view and period furniture dating back to the late 1800s.
    • The three upstairs rooms are furnished and decorated as they were when the Kelleys lived there.
  • What historical event is featured at the Kelley House Museum?
    • The story of the Frolic shipwreck, the most significant shipwreck on the west coast, is told here.
  • What other exhibits are displayed at the Kelley House Museum?
    • Other exhibits include:
      • 'Then and Now' photographs
      • History of the local Native Americans
  • Are tours available at the museum?
    • Yes, guided tours of the museum and the town of Mendocino are available.
    • Visitors can also rent a tablet and do a self-guided tour.
  • Where is the Kelley House Museum located?

Plan Your Trip


Table of Contents: