Tucked away in western Sonoma County, the tiny community of Occidental (pop. 1,115) packs a lot into its two-block long main street, home to galleries, gift shops, renowned dining establishments, and other local businesses. High-quality arts and cultural events are found at the Occidental Center for the Arts, while the Occidental Arts and Ecology Center promotes biological and cultural diversity.
As the midpoint on the exceptionally scenic 10-mile drive known as the Bohemian Highway, Occidental attracts cyclists and car clubs as the starting point for a number of beautiful and challenging routes between the redwoods and the coast. A favorite is to head west on picturesque Coleman Valley Road, which climbs over the ridge and then descends to Highway 1 along the coast.
North of town, the adventurous can fly through the tops of the redwoods via Sonoma Canopy Tour’s zip line experience.
Dining is a delight in Occidental. Founded as a railroad saloon and boarding house in 1879, the Union Hotel and Restaurant is now a lovely Italian cafe, bakery and pizzeria. Occidental's famous Negri's Italian Dinners & Joe's Bar, with its vintage trattoria ambience, has been serving Italian classics since 1943. And Mexican, French, and American cuisines are also served in local eateries.
Lodging is available in vacation rentals; the pet-friendly Occidental Lodge, with a pool and 27 rooms with queen- and king-size beds; and The Inn at Occidental, providing a luxury B&B experience.Â
Trip Ideas
Tucked away in western Sonoma County, the tiny community of Occidental was founded in 1876 as the last stop on the North Pacific Coast Railroad, and it soon became a popular vacation destination. In...
The two-lane roadway known as the Bohemian Highway winds across 10 miles of western Sonoma County, through towering redwoods, serene pastures, rocky ravines, and the tiny hamlets of Monte Rio...
Say "Occidental," and many locals think "Italian" for the long-standing restaurants that serve generously portioned, family-friendly dinners in this small town tucked away in Sonoma County's Russian...
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For almost 20 years, Galleria has been cultivating art and jewelry collections from local and international artisans. You’ll find an amazing assortment of high quality items in a wide range of prices.…
Natural and organic groceries, produce, and deli.
Home of the famous Union Hotel Restaurant. Close proximity to the Bodega Bay & Russian River.Family Style DiningThe red and white checkered tablecloths of the Union Hotel’s Dining Room, with its walls…
Welcome to Negri’s Original Italian Restaurant where you’ll enjoy authentic Italian recipes passed down through four generations of our family for you and your family to enjoy.  Here at Negri's, we…
This cozy Victorian has been transformed into an eclectic spot locally famous for it’s rotating craft beer, yummy pub food, and awesome live music. Come enjoy the vibe and immerse yourself in the…
Established in 2012, Boho Bungalow is a home and gift boutique that sits in the heart of picturesque downtown Occidental on the Bohemian Highway. The historic town attracts visitors from the greater…
LandPaths' beautiful Grove of Old Trees is open for walking and picnicking any day of the year. In fact, the Grove is the only privately-owned preserve in Sonoma County that is publicly accessible and…
Born out the love of small house concerts with traveling fine music and other artists, our series has endured three decades to become now a world class chamber music series for our whole community,…
We are a 102 year old meat processing facility, specializing in all-natural meat products. We carry high quality USDA prime dry aged steaks, local grass-fed beef, local lambs and goats, California…
Jim & Michele Wimborough have been cooking in kitchens in the Bay Area (Zut on Fourth, Grand Café, and Boulevard to name a few) for the past 15 years. It has been their dream to find the perfect small…