Sebastopol is one of those little towns that surprises you in all the best ways. It’s got that laid-back Northern California vibe that I totally love, but with so many hidden hotspots to discover. If you’re ready for a day filled with yummy food, quirky art, and wine (always wine!), then let’s take a look into my personal, tried-and-true itinerary for Sebastopol. Let me warn you, it’s a day that’ll make you fall in love with this place.
MORNING
Coffee + Breakfast at Taylor Lane
You know those mornings when you need a seriously good coffee (or tea) to get going? Taylor Lane in The Barlow is the place for that. The Barlow, by the way, is a cool outdoor marketplace filled with artisan shops, and Taylor Lane fits right in with its industrial chic vibe. My husband loves their handcrafted espresso drinks, and he’s picky about his coffee!
Fun fact: their flagship location is right here in Sebastopol, so you’re getting the best of the best. Grab a latte or a pour-over, maybe even an almond croissant (because, yes, carbs are a must when traveling), and you’re set. I could honestly sit here on my laptop all morning, but there’s more to see!
U-Pick Raspberries
I used to love going wild blackberry picking with my family in some hidden spots around my neighborhood. At the Boring U-Pick raspberry farm, it’s that same kind of down-to-earth experience. They hand you a box, show you how to pick the ripest berries, and off you go! It’s kind of like a little treasure hunt, plus who doesn’t love the taste of fresh raspberries right off the bush? Just make sure to wear comfy shoes (mud happens!), and don’t forget to grab one of their raspberry popsicles on the way out. They are to die for!
A couple quick tips: you pay by the pound, so don’t go too crazy unless you’re ready for a raspberry feast later. This bucket list adventure is seasonal, so check the website to make sure they’re open!
AFTERNOON
Stroll Florence Avenue’s Junk Art
Now, this is where Sebastopol’s quirky, artsy personality really shines. Florence Avenue is a residential street, but it feels like an outdoor art gallery because every few houses have these amazing junk art sculptures in the yard. They’re all made by local artists Patrick Amiot and Brigitte Laurent, who turned their front yard into an exhibit and it just spread from there.
I’ll be honest, some of these sculptures are so wild and whimsical, they’ll make you laugh out loud. One of my favorites is a giant fish made out of old car parts—like, who thinks of that? You’ll definitely want your camera ready for this walk!
Florence Avenue is just three blocks long, from Bodega Ave. to Healdsburg Ave. I find it easier to find parking near Bodega Ave.
Lunch at Handline
This place is a total find. Handline is housed in a former Foster’s Freeze (so yes, there’s soft-serve ice cream available!). It’s super casual—you order at the counter—but the food is seriously gourmet, especially their seafood. The fish tacos? I could eat them every day. They focus on using local ingredients, which is part of what makes everything so fresh and tasty. If you can, grab a seat on the patio—it’s the perfect spot to soak up some Sebastopol sunshine and people-watch.
Wine Tasting at Region
Alright, let’s talk wine because what’s a trip to Sonoma County without it, right? Region is this amazing spot where you can sample over 50 different wines from all over Sonoma County using these self-serve WineStation machines (honestly, they’re like grown-up vending machines, and I love it). You can taste a little of everything without committing to a full glass or bottle. I love discovering new local wines this way because you can try a sip of something you might not usually order. Plus, it’s just fun!
PS: Getting a glass of wine at the trendy Pax tasting room is a GREAT alternative!
Explore + Shop The Barlow
After all that wine (and maybe a bit of a buzz), take some time to wander The Barlow. It’s this trendy outdoor shopping area full of local boutiques, home decor shops, restaurants and more wine tasting rooms (you know, just in case you didn’t get enough earlier!). I’m personally obsessed with Acorn, Rust, Indigenous Designs & JG Switzer—they have such unique pieces that make the perfect souvenirs or gifts.
And there’s also a little photo booth where you can take some fun pics with your friends (because we all need a good photo op!).
EVENING
Play Pinball at The Rewind Arcade
I know this sounds random, but trust me—this place is so much fun! The Rewind Arcade is filled with pinball machines and arcade games from the 80s and 90s, that’ll take you right back to your childhood. But here’s the twist: this isn’t just for kids. It’s an adult-friendly spot with beer taps lining the walls*—yes, you heard me right! You can grab a cold one while trying to beat your high score on a vintage machine (which I never do, but hey, it’s all about the fun).
Pre-Dinner Cocktails at Fern Bar
By now, you’ve definitely earned a fancy cocktail! Fern Bar is one of those places that just feels effortlessly cool the second you walk in. The space is airy, filled with hanging plants and greenery (it’s giving indoor garden vibes), making it the perfect spot to kick back and relax. It’s actually a great place for dinner too—they have an amazing menu—but we were just there for cocktails this time.
I went for the creamy Thai Iced Tea cocktail, and oh my goodness, it was like a drink and dessert rolled into one. Peter ordered the Corpse Reviver, which was equally delicious, but let me be honest—it didn’t have the same Instagram-worthy charm as mine (presentation matters, right?).
Dinner at Ramen Gaijin
This is hands-down one of the best spots for ramen in Northern California! Ramen Gaijin gets packed, so definitely make a reservation if you can. My favorite seats are at the ramen counter where you can watch the chefs in action—it’s like dinner and a show! We ordered the Roasted Mushroom Donburi, which is packed with umami goodness, and the Shoyu Ramen with pork belly. And DON’T EVER skip the fried chicken Kara-age—it’s so crispy and flavorful, you’ll want to order seconds!
(Backup plan: If it’s too busy, Goldfinch is an amazing alternative!)
Dessert at Screamin’ Mimi’s
We have to end the day with ice cream, right? Screamin’ Mimi’s is a bit of a local legend, and their ice cream is honestly some of the best I’ve ever had (and I don’t say that lightly). I went for the cherry chocolate almond, and I finished every single bite. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t look fancy from the outside, but once you taste the ice cream, you totally get why it’s so popular. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your One-Day Sebastopol Itinerary.
And there you have it! A full day of exploring, eating, sipping wine, and making memories in Sebastopol. Whether you’re picking raspberries or playing pinball, this town is all about the fun little surprises.
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CALIFORNIA: SONOMA COUNTY