A Postcard From Cloverdale, California
The residents of Cloverdale enjoy fine living, including fine restaurants, wines, and homes. The Wine Country region of California is home to many successful entrepreneurs and retirees.
About Cloverdale
Cloverdale is a beautiful city positioned in the Northern area of the Alexander Valley - the most abundant grape growing region of Sonoma County. Vineyards and several wineries are located in the Southern portion of the city, while splendid redwoods are found in the Northern part of Cloverdale. Appropriately enough, the city's motto is, "Where the redwoods meet the vineyards". The rolling hills of the California foothills can be seen in the distance as you drive the winding streets of Cloverdale. The foliage is green and lush, as the soil is very fertile. Farmer's markets can be found in the downtown area in the Summer months; the fruits and vegetables from the Sonoma Valley are among the most delicious in the United States. There are plenty of tree-lined streets in this small town. Historic homes and buildings are scattered throughout Cloverdale, and the city council does its part to maintain the historic preservation of the quaint city.
An Average Lifestyle in Cloverdale
Cloverdale is a very safe community that is focused on the success and development of its children. The schools in Cloverdale rank among the top 5% in the State of California. The firefighters in Cloverdale have the best response times in the county. Programs instated by the Cloverdale police are community-based.
Housing
Median house value: $214,600 (in 2000)
Things To Do
The Russian River Park is located minutes away from Cloverdale. Swimming, canoeing, fishing, rafting, and beach activities abound at this 70-acre river.
Lake Sonoma is also only a short drive from Cloverdale in the foothills of Northern California. Visitors can enjoy swimming, water skiing, boating, and other water-based activities.
There are three great bicycling loops through Wine Country that originate in downtown Cloverdale. There is a 10, 25, and 50 mile trek that is perfect for afternoon picnics, swimming, and simply enjoying the scenery.
There are hundreds of wineries that offer wine tasting opportunities and tours of the establishments throughout Cloverdale and the surrounding cities.
Near-By Excursions
Skydive San Francisco offers skydiving adventures for anyone, from beginners to experts. See Wine Country like never before! If you would prefer to keep your footing while soaring through the sky, there are hot air balloon adventures that are available throughout the Napa Valley and Wine Country areas.
Six Flags Marine World is located in Vallejo, CA (about 50 miles away). This amusement park showcases premium rides and wild animals in zoo-like setting.
The city of San Francisco is approximately 65 miles away from Cloverdale, and there you will find all sorts of entertaining sightseeing opportunities and adventures. You can take a ferry out to Alcatraz Island, enjoy lunch on the world-famous Fisherman's Wharf, or take in a San Francisco Giants or 49'ers sporting event.
Closest Cities
Healdsburg, CA - 16.3 miles
Lakeport, CA - 18.3 miles
Guerneville, CA - 20.3 miles
Windsor, CA - 22.8 miles
Santa Rosa, CA - 32.4 miles
San Francisco, CA - 82.2 miles
Cultural Activities
In mid-February, Cloverdale hosts the annual Cloverdale Citrus Fair. It has been a tradition for over 110 years, and it is the first fair of the year in Northern California.
Mid-May brings the Black Bart Festival and Trade Show to Cloverdale. The festival features a pancake breakfast, a 3K walk/run/race, a cow chip toss, and old fashioned bathtub races. There is music, food and fun galore.
Mid-October is the time for the Scarecrow Competition at the Cloverdale Plaza. There is scarecrow making, judging, and display, live entertainment, and children's storytelling.
Getting to Cloverdale
There are a couple of smaller airports located near Cloverdale. The Cloverdale Municipal is located in Cloverdale, about 4 miles from town. The Healdsburg Municipal Airport in Healdsburg, CA is about 14 miles from Cloverdale. The San Francisco International Airport is approximately 82 miles away.
Weather
The Wine Country region is known for its great weather year round. There is plenty of rain in the Winter and early Spring months, and sometimes the areas surrounding the Russian River flood. Even though the Winter months may be chilly, the temperature rarely goes below 32 degrees. The Summer months are very warm and sunny with cool nights. Fall is the perfect time to visit Cloverdale - it is sunny, but not as hot and the crisp Autumn air will soothe your soul.
Population
Population: 6,831 (in 2000)
Median resident age: 36.0 years
Economics
Median household income: $42,309 (in 2000)
Higher Education
Mendocino College - Ukiah, CA (28 miles)
Santa Rosa Junior College - Santa Rosa, CA (32 miles)
Sonoma State University - Rohnert Park, CA (39 miles)
Napa Valley College - Napa, CA (59 miles)
Contra Costa College - San Pablo, CA (74 miles)