Established in 1876 as the final stop on the North Pacific Coast Railroad, Occidental (pop. 1,126) is a town whose modern-day charms are rooted in its past.
As you explore, you’ll find many local nods to that Western railway heritage, including businesses housed in a former train station, railroad saloon, and boarding house.
Occidental's time as a transportation hot spot made it a popular vacation destination, a reputation it still holds. Now, however, its more known for its laid-back vibes, eclectic boutique shopping, outdoor delights, and being a stop along the scenic Bohemian Highway.
Things to Do in Occidental
This small town is brimming with ways to disconnect with life’s hustle and reconnect with yourself and travel companions. Shop for artisan-made souvenirs and crystals in the locally owned spots that line the two-block downtown or settle into a wine tasting.
Or become the maker yourself thanks to Occidental Center for the Arts, where classes and workshops run the gamut from writing and watercolor to figure drawing and bluegrass fiddling. The center also hosts concerts featuring local musicians and singers, and the Redwood Arts Council sweetens the musical pot with its annual chamber music series.
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Where to Eat
An emphasis on seasonal produce and sustainability is the name of the game in Occidental, where you can recharge with a cornucopia of locally sourced meats, cheeses, fruits, and veggies. Howard Station Café is a local favorite, serving American classics and Californian cuisine from the town’s old train station. At The Altamont General Store, savor free-range chicken katsu sandwiches with yuzu aioli, veggie tacos with kimchi special sauce, and vegan soft serve.
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Hotels and Lodging
Whether you want to wake up in a guesthouse with views of wooded hillsides and meadows, open your eyes to the gentle sounds of farm animals, or glamp in a treehouse nestled in the branches of redwoods, there’s a place for you to kick back here.
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Weddings and Receptions are magical events here at Inn at Occidental. You may choose to hold your ceremony right here at the inn in our lush garden courtyard with fountain, or perhaps you would like…
Riverwood Cottage is a cozy, riverfront cottage on the banks of the Russian River in Monte Rio, California. Sit in the hot tub, surrounded by tall redwood trees, looking out over the lawn, summer…
Located on 1/3 acre of riverfront property, Riverwood is a small cabin detailed and furnished in an Italian Tuscan style. The yard has a lawn, seating, shade trees, and a small stream with bridges.…
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…
Hand Goods is a locally owned gallery featuring hand crafted goods in downtown Occidental, CA. Established in 1970. Created by artists, for artists and lovers of handmade goods.
Western Hills Garden is a three-acre landmark garden in Occidental, CA with a critically important collection of rare plants and trees. Nestled among the towering redwoods in Occidental, California,…
The Occidental Lodge is a 28 room 1970's motor lodge nestled in the redwood mountain vista of Occidental on the famous Bohemian Highway corridor. We are centrally located within minutes of award…
Surrounded by wooded hillsides, meadows and creeks, Occidental Guest House Properties are located in one of the most beautiful and richly natural areas of Sonoma County. Come enjoy the bounty of our…
More Trip Ideas and Inspiration
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. It became a popular vacation destination soon after it...
Unfurling across 10 miles of western Sonoma County, the two-lane Bohemian Highway weaves through the tiny hamlets of Monte Rio, Occidental, and Freestone, passing towering redwoods, serene pastures...
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...