Boonville Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip with this comprehensive travel guide to Boonville, California. Discover top attractions, must-try dishes, where to stay, transportation options, and more!


Introduction to Boonville

Boonville is a small town located in Mendocino County, California, known for its beautiful natural scenery, charming local culture, and outdoor adventure opportunities. The town is situated in North Coast, and it is only two hours away from San Francisco. Boonville is an excellent destination for those who love hiking, biking, wine tasting, and exploring small towns.

In this comprehensive guide, you will find everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Boonville, including the top places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, transportation options, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Boonville

Boonville may be a small town, but it offers a variety of exciting attractions for visitors. Here are some of the top places to explore during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Anderson Valley Historical Museum - A great stop for history buffs, this museum features exhibits showcasing the history of Anderson Valley.
  • Yorkville Pioneer Cemetery - This cemetery, established in 1863, offers a glimpse into the early history of the region.
  • Greenwood Ridge Vineyards - Take a vineyard tour and taste some of the best wines in Boonville.
  • Philo Apple Farm - Get a taste of locally grown apples and pears, and learn about the history of farming in Boonville.

Natural Attractions of Boonville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hendy Woods State Park - A beautiful redwood forest park, the quiet trails, and picnic areas are perfect for relaxed family outings.
  • Navarro River Redwoods State Park - A great place for nature lovers, the park is home to stunning waterfalls and swimming holes.
  • Anderson Valley Vineyard Trail - This famous vineyard tour is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts visiting Boonville, offering the chance to explore some of the best wineries in the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Boonville

Boonville is a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts, and it offers an abundance of hiking and biking trails. Below are some of the best options:

  • The Mendocino National Forest - A great option for advanced hikers, the Mendocino National Forest offers stunning views and challenging terrain.
  • Cornell Creek Trail - A challenging hike that rewards hikers with stunning views of the valley.
  • Boonville Bike and Blend Trail - A unique cycling experience that combines cycling and wine tasting, visitors can follow this trail and taste the local vineyards while enjoying the scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Boonville: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of incredible activities and tours in Boonville. Here are some top experiences to try:

  • Wine Tasting Tours - Boonville is famous for its vineyards, and there are plenty of wine-tasting tours on offer. Visit the popular wineries in the area, learn about the local wines and enjoy the beautiful landscapes surrounding them.
  • Take a Hot-Air Balloon Ride - The amazing landscapes of Boonville are even more captivating from a hot-air balloon. Experience the views in an unforgettable way by taking a hot-air balloon ride over the famous vineyards.
  • Horseback Riding - Boonville is a perfect location for horseback riding enthusiasts. Enjoy exploring the local surroundings, and take a horseback tour of the town with a knowledgeable guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Boonville

Here is a 7-day itinerary to help guide your trip to Boonville:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Boonville, and relax at your accommodation.
2 Explore the Anderson Valley Historical Museum.
3 Hike at Hendy Woods State Park.
4 Take a hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards.
5 Enjoy a wine tasting tour of Anderson Valley Vineyards.
6 Go horseback riding with a guide.
7 Visit Philo Apple Farm, pack up, and depart Boonville.

Food and Drink Scene of Boonville

Boonville has an excellent food and drink scene, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Deep-Dish Apple Pie - A local specialty, this baked dish features local apples.
  • Locally Grown Oysters - These fresh oysters are sourced from farms in Mendocino County.
  • Mac and Cheese - Boonville’s mac and cheese features smoked cheddar cheese sourced from a local creamery.

Local Beverages

  • Anderson Valley Brewing Company - Sample some of the best local beers at the Anderson Valley Brewing Company.

Where to Stay in Boonville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Boonville offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Boonville Hotel - A luxury hotel that offers elegant rooms and an on-site restaurant serving locally sourced ingredients.
  • The Brambles - An elegant bed and breakfast option, offering luxurious rooms and delicious breakfasts.
  • Boonville Lodge - Another budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and great service.

What to Buy in Boonville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Boonville offers a variety of souvenir and local product options, including:

  • Local Wines - Get a taste of the famous local wines from Anderson Valley Vineyards.
  • Honey from a Local Apiary - Try some delicious honey from a local apiary.
  • Artisanal Cheese - Boonville is known for its locally made artisanal cheese, and there are many food markets selling these delicious treats.

Local Culture and Customs of Boonville

Boonville has a unique local culture known as Boontling. Boontling is a local dialect that originated in Anderson Valley in the 1800s and is still spoken by some locals today.

Best Time to Visit Boonville

Boonville is a great year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from April to November when the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Boonville

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local food and beverages.
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities and tours.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind in natural areas.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.
  • Ignore safety guidelines and warnings when hiking or exploring the outdoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Boonville

Boonville is a relatively safe place, but visitors should still take precautions such as locking their accommodation and not leaving valuables in plain sight. When exploring the outdoors, visitors should always carry a map and enough supplies.

Health in Boonville

Boonville has basic medical facilities and pharmacies. Visitors should be aware of the potential risks associated with outdoor activities, such as ticks and poison oak.

Getting to Boonville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Boonville is situated only two hours away from San Francisco, and there are several transportation options to reach the town.

Airports Near Boonville

The closest major airport to Boonville is San Francisco International Airport, located approximately 140 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Boonville

The nearest Amtrak train station is located in Cloverdale, approximately 25 miles away.

Other Options

Many visitors choose to drive to Boonville and take a rental car from San Francisco or other major cities.

How to Get Around in Boonville

Boonville is a small town, and the easiest way to get around is by car. Rental cars are available from nearby cities or at the airports.

Where to Go Next from Boonville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many other exciting destinations near Boonville. Some popular options include:

  • Mendocino County - Explore the stunning natural beauty of Mendocino County, including the beaches and state parks.
  • Fort Bragg - Visit the charming coastal town of Ft. Bragg, famous for its beaches and scenic railway.
  • San Francisco - Only two hours away from Boonville, San Francisco offers an abundance of attractions and sightseeing opportunities.

Conclusion

Boonville is a must-visit destination for those who love outdoor activities, local culture, and stunning landscapes. With this comprehensive guide, you now have all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Boonville, California. Enjoy exploring this charming town and the surrounding countryside!