Fall/Winter 2021
Ready for a staycation? Try Rio Vista, Yolo County, balloon rides, Napa County, Sonoma County and Solano’s great outdoors
‑ places to go, people to see ‑ museums share solano history golf offers pandemic respite
Cottonwood
Woodland 99
Lake Berryessa
Sacramento Davis Putah Creek State Wildlife Area
nessey
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Dixon
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Yolo By-Pass Wildlife Area
Yolo Bypa ss
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Vacaville Napa
Suisun Valley
Fairfield
Rockville Hills Park
Travis Air Force Base
Suisun City
American Canyon
Rio Vista
Napa River
Grizzly Bay
Vallejo
Bay
780
Suisun Bay
Grizzly Island Wildlife Area
Honker Bay
Benicia O N T H E COV ER
Publishers: Foy S. McNaughton and T. Burt McNaughton
Up, up and away A hot air balloon from Yolo Ballooning Adventures in Winters is shown during an excursion over eastern Solano County. Photo by Jocelyne von Strong 4 |
Discover Solano
Editor: Glen Faison Advertising Director: Bill Barno
1250 Texas St., Fairfield, CA 94533 707.425.4646 | Fax 707.426.5924 Discover Solano is a publication produced by the Daily Republic. All rights reserved, Sept. 26, 2021. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. All content included in the magazine was deemed accurate at the time of printing and is subject to change.
Project Coordinator: Nancy Meadows Design: Kim Durbin Distribution: Bob Franks Contributing Writers: Todd R. Hansen, Matt Miller, Amy Maginnis-Honey, Jocelyne von Strong Photo Editor: Robinson Kuntz FALL/WINTER 2021
6 Ready for a staycation? Try Rio Vista, Yolo County, balloon rides, Napa County, Sonoma County and Solano’s great outdoors
What’s inside Places to go, people to see ���� 35 Solano A&E scene shows signs of life for second fall season of pandemic �����������45 History comes alive at Solano’s National Register of Historic Places �����������������������48 Museums continue to share Solano, military history ������������50 Solano golf courses offer outdoor pandemic respite ����54
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Try Rio Vista Daily Republic Staff
W
ater helped give life to this Solano County community and, in 1862, helped to destroy it. That was when the Sacramento River rose and 12 feet of water covered Rio Vista. The community was re-established on higher ground about 2 miles from its original location where Cache
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Slough meets the Sacramento River. A wharf was built and the first church, for Catholics, was erected 1862. A Congregational Church was also built the same year. A salmon cannery was among the businesses of the river town, which has seen rapid growth recently. Its population nearly doubled between 2000 and 2010 and the California State Department of Finance projects continued growth based on the 2020 census. The Chamber of Commerce likes to note that Joseph Strauss, architect of the Golden Gate Bridge, designed the community’s largest landmark, known locally as the Rio Vista bridge, “situated on the historic Sacramento
FALL/WINTER 2021
River with a silhouette of the rolling Montezuma Hills to the south.” The official name is the Helen Madere Memorial Bridge, renamed in 1998 for Helen Madere, who served as vice mayor. The business group also boasts how Rio Vista “still maintains an easy-going small-town attitude even though it is central to the two largest population centers in Northern California.” The city has retained its small-town identity despite a veritable population explosion in recent years. According to census data, Rio Vista is home to just over 10,000 people – a number derived partially through a 76% growth in population from 2000 to 2010 and an estimated 32% growth from 2010 through 2019. It is both near and remote given its geography, about a 20-minute drive from most other places of any size and note. Moreover, “Rio Vista is known to have some of the best sport fishing in the state and is the host for the West Coast’s oldest striped bass derby each October,” the chamber notes. The Rio Vista Airport on the outskirts of town makes flying in for a day of business, lunch or just to explore the area easily accessible, adds the chamber. The community is also home to “world-class” Percheron horses, buffalo, and the only endive producer in the United States, the chamber notes. Endive is a leafy vegetable in the chicory family. Whatever you’re looking for, you will find Rio Vista a friendly,
fun place to visit, right in the heart of the California Delta. The town is home to a number of highly popular events, including the venerable Bass Derby and Festival. The city’s boat launch ramp is located behind City Hall off of Front Street. The boat launch features a dock with moorings, a two-lane boat launch, parking for vehicles and boat trailers, a picnic area with tables, a drinking fountain and restrooms. The daily launch fees, which include vehicle and trailer parking, can be paid by cash or credit card at the onsite pay station. Rio Vista offers shopping downtown, several restaurants, and the Rio Vista Museum, 16 N. Front St., to learn some Rio Vista and Delta history. The city is trying to stay ahead of the pace by upgrading the town’s infrastructure and modernizing downtown. The community is counting on its location to continue growing, as Rio Vista did during the days when being next to the Sacramento River allowed the town to capitalize on trade between San Francisco and Sacramento. Fairfield and Lodi, about 20 minutes away on Highway 12, are the larger nearby cities. Stockton and Sacramento are only half an hour away on nearby Interstate 5. Nearly 6% of the city exists within neighboring waterways – and the community’s future may match its river past.
Spend the day, see some sights 73rd Annual Bass Derby & Festival
Bass Derby & Festival
A staple in the area, the Rio Vista Bass Derby – the oldest on the West Coast – attracts anglers from near and far. Combined with the Bass Festival, the event is a three-day party that has something for everyone. While the anglers are out fishing for the big one, everyone else can enjoy a variety of music, a host of rides, a variety of food, a car show, a parade and myriad events – some of which change from year to year, and a prize drawing for a fishing boat. This year’s parade theme is “Celebrating the Beauty of Rio Vista.” Included in the events is a pancake breakfast, garage sale, parade and fireworks show. The event is scheduled for Oct. 8-1o, 2021. Location: Downtown Rio Vista More information: 707-374-2700,
info@riovista.org, bassfestival.com
Rio Vista Museum Rio Vista Museum FALL/WINTER 2021
Step back into history when you enter the Rio Vista Museum. Local mementos from years gone by range among a wide array of artifacts –
from photos and newspaper headlines to vehicles, farm equipment to clothing, books to kitchen items. Opened in 1975, it is in a converted blacksmith shop. Friendly and knowledgeable docents are available to answer any questions. Location: 16 N. Front St., Rio Vista More information:
707-374-5169, www.riovistamuseum.com
Sandy Beach Located on the Sacramento River near Rio Vista, the half-mile-long Sandy Beach is a great Solano County location to cool off during the spring, summer and fall and enjoy some time outdoors throughout the year. It’s open the entire year and has a 24-hour boat launch, campsites and areas to picnic that include tables, barbecue pits, volleyball courts and a horseshoe pit. Location: 2333 Beach Drive,
Rio Vista
More information: 707-374-2097 (maps and reservation information available), www.co.solano.ca.us/ depts/rm/countypark/ sandybeach.asp Discover Solano
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Rio Vista
Waterfront Promenade
Waterfront Promenade The park features a beautiful promenade along the Sacramento River waterfront and is popular with walkers, photographers, dog lovers, joggers and fishing enthusiasts. The area features a nearby fishing dock, a fish cleaning
FALL/WINTER 2021
station, picnic tables, barbecues, restrooms and a drinking fountain. Location: On the Sacramento River adjacent to the Rio Vista Bridge.
Foster’s Bighorn Bar If you’re looking for big horns –
literally – look no further than Foster’s Bighorn Bar in Rio Vista. Along with an extensive menu of barbecue, steak, seafood and a fully stocked bar, the restaurant boasts a private collection of more than 300 big-game hunting specimens from Africa and North America that would make any sportsman blush. The collection was put together by Bill Foster in
the 1930s and 1940s. Several exotic and prized animals from his travels to Africa, Canada and Alaska hang on the wall, including heads of an African elephant and giraffe. The African elephant, mounted in 1952, is one of the few in existence. The trunk measures 13 feet and the 5-foot-long tusks weigh 110 pounds each. The mounted giraffe head is extremely rare, and the moose over the bar with an antler spread of 76 inches was the largest known specimen in the world at one time. Foster, a native of Hayward, was involved in bootlegging. Running from the law, he moved his wildlife collection to Rio Vista, where it has remained for decades. The bar opened in 1933 as a popular watering hole. Today it is a destination spot for sportsmen and also a place where families are welcome. Location: 143 Main St. Rio Vista More information:
707-374-2511, www.fostersbighorn.com
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Rio Vista
Agnello’s Corner Deli & Market 400 Main Street Rio Vista, Ca 94571 HOURS: Tue-Sun 8am-4pm
707-374-1300 Market Now Open!
Bob & Dana Lapp Auto Repair / Alignment / Tires / Custom Exhaust Hitches / Wiring / Brake Controllers / Trailer Repair / RVs
Ph 707-374-2484
1105-D Airport Rd
Fax 707-374-5939
Rio Vista, CA 94571
Robin’s Nest 7KULIW Robin Sibert owner
295 N Front Street, Rio Vista, Ca 94571 707.374.4004 cell 707-628-5259 Tues-Fri 10-4 • Sat & Sun 11-4 • closed Mon robinsnestthrift.com
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73rd Annual - Bass Derby & Festival Oct. 8th, 9th and 10th
Fishing Tournament-Car Show-Music-Carnival-Vendors Food-Parade-Fireworks-Rummage Sale www.bassfestival.com www.riovista.org
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Handcrafted Bath & Body Products and Distributor Quilting/Sewing Essentials Charming Choices for Home and Gift-giving Thursday & Friday: 10a-4p Saturday: 10a-3p or by appointment Free website delivery for Rio Vista residents
ALL ABOARD! Over 50 historic cars on display, 22 miles of track and 22 acres.
WE ARE OPEN
Saturday and Sunday from 10:30-5:00 Train rides are 11:00, 12:30, 2:00, 3:30
Pumpkin Patch starts on 10/9-10/24 Adults $20 • Seniors (+65) $18 • Children (2-14) $15
Due to the safety of our staff and customers we will be having the patch at the Western Railway Museum normal hours of operations and normal train times. Tickets available online, all the information is on our website.
• Admission is good for the entire day so you can explore historic railway exhibits, ride a vintage streetcar, make use of our large shaded picnic grounds, and visit our Museum Store, library archives and the Depot Cafe. • Membership • Volunteer • Support
Adults Seniors (+65) Children (2-14)
$15 $14 $12
Family Memberships Available
Western Railway Museum 5848 Highway 12, Suisun City (707) 374-2978
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Helping You Through Your Financial Maze Rob Pedersen Financial Representative Insurance Broker
Office: (707) 317-1552 Fax: (707) 317-1546 Cell: (925) 325-4169
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Rio Vista Insurance & Financial Services 6 N Front Street | Rio Vista, CA 94571 Rob Pedersen is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Securities Corp. Securities offered through Lincoln Financial Securities Corporation, Member SIPC. Insurance is offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, and other companies. Rio Vista Insurance & Financial Services and Lincoln Financial Securities are not affiliated.
Pets 4 All Grooming Too! 167 Main Street Rio Vista, CA 94571 (707) 374-2011 “Where pets always come first” Open Daily Monday - Saturday
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Visit our webpage at http://discoverriovista.com Event hot line: 707-469-3060
Try Yolo County Daily Republic Staff
Y
olo County is home to the vibrant cities of Davis and its University of California campus, Woodland and Winters as well as a vast agricultural countryside, which has something to offer year-round. For those who want to connect closer with Yolo County’s agriculture, there’s Harvest Hub Yolo, which links people to the county’s diverse number of organic farms, traditional farms, olive oil, wine vineyards and farmers markets.
FALL/WINTER 2021
The county is home to 17 art galleries, many of them in Davis. One of the centers of the art community is YoloArts and Gallery 625 in Woodland, which typically hosts 10 exhibitions a year to showcase Yolo County’s artists. The county hosts a fine collection of bike paths through its communities as well as through the farmlands, aqueducts and orchards. For anyone interested in learning, there’s the California Raptor Center, the UC Davis arboretum, the Bohart Museum of Entomology, the Explorit Science Center, the Heidrick Ag History Center and the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame. The Gibson House Historical Museum in Woodland gives visitors a glimpse at Yolo County’s agricultural history from the early 19th century. Not far away is the historic Nelson Ranch and Cattle Company, which is still a working horse ranch that offers equestrian events and training. Festivals in Yolo County offer a little something for everyone, with the annual California Landscape Painters Discover Solano
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Conference, the Capay Valley Almond Festival, California Duck Days, the annual Petite Sirah Port Weekend, Earthquake Street Festival, the Davis Feminist Film Festival, the Woodland Scottish Festival & Games, La Raza Cultural Days, Picnic Day and the Cache Creek Lavender Festival. The county’s outdoor public areas are surprisingly diverse, ranging from the Native American Contemplative Garden at UC Davis to the wild and mountainous Quail Ridge Wilderness Area
near Lake Berryessa. Visitors Bureau: Yolo County Visitors Bureau, 132 E. St., Suite 200, Davis; 530-297-1900; visityolo.com Chambers of commerce: Davis Chamber of Commerce, 604 Third St., Davis, 530-756-5160, www.davischamber.com; Winters Chamber of Commerce, 11 Main St., Winters, 530-795-2329; www.winterschamber.com; Woodland Chamber of Commerce, 307 First St., 530-662-7327; www.woodlandchamber.org
Spend the day, see some sights
Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts
Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts Robert and Margrit Mondavi gave $10 million in 2001 to help build the Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts, which opened in 2002. It is now recognized as a regional performing arts landmark. The Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts presents nearly 200 performances each year, making it one of Northern California’s premier arts destinations. Performances include some of the best talent from around the world and performances by both professional and student artists in music, dance, theater and spoken word. The Mondavi Center’s main performance space, the 1,800-seat Jackson Hall, features nextgeneration theatrical equipment and superb acoustics, making it a favorite for the world’s greatest orchestras, jazz bands, and dance and theater companies. The center’s 200-seat Vanderhoef Studio Theatre provides high-tech space for rehearsals, film screenings and intimate musical experiences. Location: One Shields Ave., University of California, Davis More information: 16 |
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530-754-2787, www.mondaviarts.org
SkyDance Skydiving Skydiving from the Yolo County Airport in Davis with SkyDance Skydiving offers a variety of dives from beginner tandem jumps to advanced solo dives. Free falls include 30 seconds at 9,000 feet and 60 seconds at 13,000 feet. There’s also the “Ultimate Tandem Challenge” from 18,000 feet, with a free fall of 90 seconds.
SkyDance Skydiving Location: 3141 5th St., Davis More information:
Location: 24390 Aviation
530-756-0191 or www.explorit.org
Heidrick Ag History Center
More information:
U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame
Explorit Science Center
The U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to recognizing American competitive cyclists and contributors to the sport for their significant achievements. Its mission is to preserve the history of American cycling in order to educate people about the past and encourage them to participate in the future of the sport. Encouraging all levels of cycling, the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame promotes cycling development and fitness.
The Heidrick Ag History Center is a museum dedicated to enhancing people’s understanding and appreciation of California’s rich cultural heritage through the presentation of its collection and rotating exhibits. The museum’s core collection was established by Fred Heidrick Sr. and consists of rare examples of tractors, harvesters, trucks, autos, horsedrawn implements and other artifacts that tell the California story. The museum continues to grow through the generosity of California growers and collectors.
Ave., Davis
530-753-2651, https:// skydanceskydiving.com
Located in Davis, Explorit is a nonprofit hands-on science center for children and adults. Explorit features a museum. Groups, particularly school groups, can enjoy a wide range of onsite and offsite programs such as discovery lessons, inquiry labs and nature safaris. Traveling programs include family science nights, school assembly programs, classroom adventures and a young scientist series. A summer science camp is also available.
Location: 303 3rd St., Davis More information:
530-341-FAME (3263) or https://usbhof.org
Location: 1962 Hays Lane,
Woodland
More information:
530-666-9700 or https:// www.aghistory.org FALL/WINTER 2021
Evelyn’s
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Evelyn & Pi
VOTED BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT & BEST PIZZA IN SOLANO COUNTY!
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20% OFCFOUNT
Military, La Fire Dept. & w Enforcement, Must presen Military Retir customer. t ID. Only one cou ees. pon per Not valid Excludes BIGwith any other offer. GUN Pizza.
READER’S CHOICE 2021
11
Daily All You Can Eat Specials $
1st Serving includes house salad and homemade bread Kids 10 & Under eat FREE! One per each paid adult. DINE IN ONLY
All Day Sunday Ravioli w/Marinara Sauce All Day Monday Spaghetti w/Meatball Ziti w/Meat Sauce All Day Tuesday All Day Wednesday Lasagna
Pizza by the Slice All Day
704 Texas Street • Fairfield
(707) 421-9000
www.bigitalianpizza.com g
Homemade Cannoli $5.00
Catering & Banquet Facilities Available • Hours: 11am-10pm • 7 Days A Week
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Balloon rides
allow for high-flying panorama of Solano Jocelyne von Strong
D PHOTOS BY Jocelyne von Strong
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Discover Solano
o you want to check something off your “bucket list?” Yolo Ballooning Adventures, established in 2013, just might do the trick. Mike Veliz, pilot and general manager, is passionate about ballooning. Floating 3,000 feet in the air, he says, “Where else can you do what you love and make people happy day after day?” Weather plays a key role in ballooning. Balloons rely on wind currents for their trajectory. There are local microclimates and winds can change speed and direction at different elevations, so an experienced balloon pilot will monitor the winds not only before the flight, but during as well by using a specialized app on a smartphone. FALL/WINTER 2021
The adventure begins before dawn at the Turkovich Family Wines tasting room in downtown Winters. Guests receive a safety briefing and review of expectations from their pilot. The flight is expected to last anywhere from 45 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on wind conditions and landing opportunities. Plan to spend three to four hours on your adventure from the initial briefing to return to the Turkovich tasting room for some delicious bubbly or apple cider. Veliz describes first-flight jitters: “I can tell you from many, many years of experience, most people when they think that they’re nervous, it’s just the anxiety of thinking they know
FALL/WINTER 2021
what to expect, and the moment we get off the ground, within 60 seconds, you’re going to realize it is not what you were expecting. There’s no G forces like taking off in an airplane or a helicopter. It’s really peaceful. The only time we really feel any movement in the basket is when we take off and when we land.” Taking off is a pleasant experience. One moment, the balloon is tethered to the ground and the next it is slowly rising above the rooftops. The view is spectacular. “Broccoli really does look like little trees,” a passenger says on a recent flight. Veliz points out the Berryessa Gap – an area where the hills separate to reveal the Berryessa Valley (now Lake Berryessa). The balloon hovers over Interstate 505, where truckers honk their horns, much to the delight of the passengers. There are times when the only sound is the sound of the heater warming the air in the balloon to create lift. Because the path of the balloon depends on the winds, the landing location is different with each ride. Veliz chose to lower the balloon for this flight in a newly turned field outside of Dixon. Landing was a little less peaceful than takeoff, but more gentle than expected. Passengers are asked to squat down into the basket during landing – for safety purposes. Within a couple of short minutes, the balloon is once again on terra firma. A passenger van and trailer meet the passengers at the landing site, to return them all to the Turkovich Tasting room and some refreshing beverages. To book your ballooning adventure, go to www.balloonyolo. com or call 530-662-8867.
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Paradise Valley and Rancho Solano offer a unique opportunity by having the best of both worlds with two distinct golf courses that offer completely different characteristics from one another. Golfers, both local and out of area, have coined these golf courses as being two best in class golf courses in Northern California.
Want to learn how to play golf or improve your game? The Fairfield Golf Academy offers professional instruction and custom club-fitting for adults and juniors.
www.fairfieldgolf.com
Paradise Valley Golf Course 3950 Paradise Valley Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-426-1600
Rancho Solano Golf Course 3250 Rancho Solano Pkwy. Fairfield, CA 94534 707-429-4653
The town’s favorite destination!
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700 Main Street • Suite 104 • Suisun• 707.425.1700 'DLO\ DP SP • :HHNHQGV DP SP www.castirongrillandbar.com
FRESHEN UP YOUR HOME THIS SUMMER WITH REYFF! 20 |
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FALL/WINTER 2021
Try Napa County Daily Republic Staff
N
apa County is still a land of wineries, restaurants and the good life, despite a devastating Aug. 24, 2014, earthquake and the deadly wine country wildfires in October 2017 and 2020. The county has about 400 wineries. Beringer and Mondavi are among the most famous and are corporate-owned. But most are family owned. The historic Inglenook Winery is owned by famous director Francis Ford Coppola. Vintner Dario Sattui built the Castello di Amorosa winery, which is housed in a reproduction of a 13th century Tuscan castle.
FALL/WINTER 2021
The Napa Valley is the focus of Wine Country. It is about 30 miles long and contains the towns of Napa, Yountville, Rutherford, St. Helena and Calistoga. Highway 29 on the west side of the valley and the Silverado Trail on the east side are the major roads in the valley. Napa is the county’s largest city and the county seat. It got hit particularly hard by the South Napa Earthquake, with the stone facades of some of the historic buildings crumbling. Still, various restaurants and stores remained open in the wake of the quake and the rebuilding continues. The downtown is a mix of the old and the new. Some buildings date back to the 1800s. The Riverfront development is a multiple-story mix of restaurants, shops and residences that opened a few years ago. Running through the downtown is the Napa River, which then cuts over to the Oxbow District, another area with restaurants and shops. Towns north of Napa didn’t get hit nearly as hard by
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the earthquakes. They have downtowns with a mix of hotels, restaurants and shops. For example, Yountville is home to the French Laundry, a world-famous restaurant. It’s been included among Restaurant Magazine’s 50 top restaurants in the world and has repeatedly earned three Michelin stars, the most possible. Calistoga in the north end of the valley is famous for its spas and mud baths. People who want to travel the Napa Valley but not drive have an option. They can eat, drink and watch the scenery from the Wine Train that runs along tracks parallel to Highway 29. Napa County also has outdoor recreation opportunities.
People can hike amid redwoods in Bothe-Napa Park between St. Helena and Calistoga. They can hike brushy hills for views of the Bay Area in Skyline Park near Napa. They can take a brief hike north of St. Helena to see the Bale Grist Mill, with its wooden water wheel. Lake Berryessa in the eastern county offers water recreation opportunities, from boating to fishing. The huge reservoir has seven resorts that are amid a transition that has left two at fullstrength, two closed and three with limited services. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation runs public fishing and day-use areas along the lake. More information: www.countyofnapa.org
Spend the day, see some sights Napa Valley Wine Train
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Old Faiithful Geyser
Take trip on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a unique dining experience along a 36-mile round trip, a three-hour meandering course through the Napa Valley. The trip runs from Napa to St. Helena and back, traveling through the towns of Yountville, Oakville and Rutherford. The train has three kitchens, allowing patrons the chance to choose either lunch or dinner trips with regional cuisine. Three packages are available: Silverado Package, Gourmet Express Package and the Vista Dome Package. A host of winery tours and events, such as the Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, are also available. Location: 1275 McKinstry St., Napa More information: 800-427-4124,
winetrain.com
Old Faithful Geyser Napa Valley Wine Train
Israel Valencia
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di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art
No need to go out of the state to see Old Faithful. A quick trip to Calistoga, in the Napa Valley, will bring you to California’s version of the famous geyser that shares a namesake. It’s one of three geysers in the world with the “old faithful” moniker, which are geysers that perform at regular intervals. Old Faithful in Calistoga erupts about every 30 minutes, shooting water 60 to 100 feet in the air. The grounds have a picnic location, a snack bar and gift store in addition to a petting zoo that features Tennessee fainting goats, Jacob’s four-horn sheep and guard llamas. Location: 1299 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga More information: 707-942-6463,
www.oldfaithfulgeyser.com
Robert Lewis Stevenson State Park Famous author Robert Louis Stevenson spent his honeymoon in 1880 on the site of the state park that bears his name. The park includes a 5-mile hike to the top of Mount St. Helena, from which much of the Bay Area is visible, as well as Mount Shasta – 192 miles away – on a clear day. Location: 7 miles north of Calistoga on Highway 29 More information: 707-942-4575 or http://www.parks.ca.gov
di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art The di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, located on more than 200 acres in FALL/WINTER 2021
the Napa Valley’s Carneros Region, offers a wide variety of Northern California art. Gallery 1 is open for drop-in visits, while Gallery 2 is available only through tours. Location: 5200 Sonoma Highway (Highway 12), Napa More information:
707-226-5991, www.dirosaart.org
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park The park is the site of a waterpowered grist mill that was built in 1846 to provide Napa Valley settlers a place to have their corn and wheat ground into meal or flour. The mill remained in use until the early 1900s. Mill demonstrations and tours are offered on weekends. The park also offers several hiking trails. Location: 3 miles north of St.
Helena at 3369 N St. on Highway 29 More information:
707-963-2236, www.parks.ca. gov/?page_id=482
FALL/WINTER 2021
Calistoga Hot Springs
Calistoga Hot Springs Calistoga is the place to be when it comes to relaxation. The upperNapa Valley town features numerous spas whose business is built around the therapeutic value of mineral and mud baths. The
spas in Calistoga include: • Baths at Roman Spa: 1300 Washington St., 707-942-2122 • Calistoga Spa Hot Springs: 1006 Washington St., 707-942-6269 • Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs: 1507 Lincoln Ave., 707-942-4102 • Golden Haven Hot Springs:
1713 Lake St., 707-942-8000 • Indian Springs Resort: 1712 Lincoln Ave., 707-942-4913 • Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort: 1300 Washington St., 707-942-4441 • Spa Solage: 755 Silverado Trail, 707-226-0800 More information:
www.calistogaspa.com
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Try Sonoma County Daily Republic Staff
S
onoma County offers more than 375 wineries, providing a genuine and adventurous wine country experience. Sonoma County features 15 distinct wine-growing areas that allow vintners to produce a stunning array of wines. But the sprawling vineyards and elegant wineries are just part of the many attractions the county has to offer. The county is made up of small towns and larger
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Discover Solano
cities. Among the smallest is the hamlet of Bodega, where movie director Alfred Hitchcock filmed “The Birds.” Incorporated cities include Sonoma, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Cotati, Windsor, Healdsburg and Cloverdale. For many Sonoma County visitors traveling from the east, the Sonoma Raceway is a landmark motorsport racing destination, with 12 turns on a legendary raceway that was built on land that was a working farm called Sears Point Farm in the early 1900s. The county’s namesake, Sonoma, sits 15 miles west of Napa off Highway 12. The center of the town is at the plaza between Spain and Napa streets where chickens stroll with impunity. Historic attractions such as the mission San Francisco de Solano and Sebastiani Theater (established in 1933) are free for touring. Restaurants, shops, bakeries and more surround the town square where a public park, duck pond and Sonoma City Hall reside. FALL/WINTER 2021
Twenty-two miles northwest of Sonoma is the county’s largest city, Santa Rosa, a city that was hit hard by the deadly wine country wildfires of October 2017. The city, spanning more than 41 miles, lies along Highway 101. Different neighborhoods across Santa Rosa offer both small-town charms and city activities. In the West End Historic District, visitors can catch a glimpse of the city’s history, which dates back to the early 1800s. Across town, the Charles M. Schulz Museum displays the works and history of the famous “Peanuts” comic strip creator who lived in Santa Rosa for more than three decades. West of Santa Rosa and Petaluma, small towns typify western Sonoma County with small communities including Occiden-
tal, Freestone and Monte Rio being popular way stations on the roads to the coast – just three of many towns along more than 1,400 miles of country roads popular with cyclists. Sonoma County has more than 40 regional and state parks that offer everything from ancient redwood forests, lakes and more than 50 miles of stunning Pacific Coast, with breathtaking Highway 1 panoramas delighting visitors with crashing waves, seals, and sea lions sometimes sunning themselves on the beaches. The ocean vistas include the Sonoma Coast State Park with a series of beaches along 17 miles of coastline running from about 4 miles north of the Russian River to Bodega Head in the south. More information: 800-576-6662, www.sonomacounty.com
Spend the day, see some sights Jack London State Historic Park
Charles M. Schulz Museum
The historic state park was once home to writer and adventurer Jack London, the Bay Area native who lived the final years of his life, from 1905 to 1916, at the park. The cottage where he wrote books, short stories and other articles is still there. His wife, Charmian, lived at the cottage until her death in 1995. Parkgoers can visit “The House of Happy Walls” museum, and take a threequarters-of-a-mile walk through an area that includes a dam, lake and a bathhouse built by London. Or, take a hike to the Valley of the Moon or on a trail leading to London’s grave. Bicycling and horseback riding are allowed on some trails and camping is available at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Location: 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen More information:
http://jacklondonpark.com
Charles M. Schulz Museum
Sonoma Train Town
FALL/WINTER 2021
View the largest collection of original “Peanuts” artwork in the world at the Charles M. Schulz Museum. The museum is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to giving depth to the funny pages through the preservation, display and interpretation of the life and art of “Peanuts” comic strip creator, Charles M. Schulz. Visitors can laugh at Schulz’s original comic
strips, learn about the art of cartooning and Schulz’s role in its development, view a re-creation of Schulz’s art studio, watch animated “Peanuts” specials and documentaries in the theater, draw their own cartoons in a hands-on Education Room, and more. Location: 2301 Hardies Lane,
Santa Rosa
More information:
707-579-4452; https:// schulzmuseum.org/
Sonoma Raceway The Sonoma Raceway offers racing nearly year-round. Located at the junction of Highways 37 and 121, the 12-turn road course hosts a number of major professional events each season. The facility offers free parking for races, a 50-acre campground for weekend races and many “Track Talk” events, allowing fans to interact with their favorite racers. Location: 29355 Arnold Drive,
Sonoma
More information:
800-870-RACE (7223), www.racesonoma.com
Sonoma Train Town Train Town is a great little place for kids and kids at heart. The Sonoma Train Town Railroad 1 mile south of the Sonoma Plaza features a quarter-scale railroad on 4 miles of track. Each train ride lasts 20 minutes, trekking over bridges and through tunnels on Discover Solano
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Vintage Aircraft Company
Vintage Aircraft Company
Safari West the way to a petting zoo destination. The 10-acre park features a half-dozen amusement rides, including a carousel, a Ferris wheel and roller coasters. Train Town opened in 1968 and has claimed to be one-fifth the size of the original Disneyland and twice the fun.
Location: 20264 Broadway, Sonoma More information:
707-938-3912, www.traintown.com
Safari West More than 400 exotic animals and birds call Safari West home. The 400-acre wildlife preserve is in
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Santa Rosa. It opened in 1989 and offers a drive-through look at the many creatures who call it home. Guests can also stay overnight in a canvas tent or cottage. Location: 3115 Porter Creek
Road, Santa Rosa
The Vintage Aircraft Company, located at the Sonoma Valley Airport, offers a variety of flights, including rides in warbirds, Texans and biplanes. The company had been providing safe, exciting flying experiences since 1975. You can take a trip back in time in restored vintage airplanes, flying over worldrenowned vineyards and the majestic Pacific Coast. Location: 23982 Arnold Drive,
Sonoma More information:
More information: 800-616-
2695, www.safariwest.com
707-938-2444, www. vintageaircraft.com
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Solano County DINING GUIDE
THE POINT RESTUARANT 120 Marina Drive Rio Vista, CA, 94571 707-374-5400 pointrestaurant.com
Mr. Pickles Sandwich Shop
300 E. Monte Vista Avenue Vacaville 707-453-1283 MrPickles.com
Evelyn’s Big Italian Pizzeria & Restaurant 704 Texas Street • Fairfield (707) 421-9000 bigitalianpizza.com
CAST IRON GRILL & Bar
700 Main Street • Suite 104 Suisun (707) 425-1700 www.castirongrillandbar.com
LA CABANA
325 Main Street Suisun City (707) 429-5871 • (707) 673-2877 LaCabanaDeSuisun.com
TORTILLA FLATS 646 Hwy 12 Rio Vista 707-374-2564
Merchant & Main Grill 349 Merchant Street Vacaville (707) 446-0368 merchantandmaingrill.com
The Napa Deli
5121 Business Center Dr. #100 Fairfield (707) 864-3364 www.thenapadeli.com
BURGERLICIOUS 650 Hwy 12 Rio Vista (707) 374-2020
Huckleberry’s Southern Cookin’ with a California Twist 3101 Travis Blvd., Fairfield (707) 427-3800 huckleberrys.org
n 4513 Putah Creek Rd, Winters (530) 441-2337 https://greenrivertaproom.net
Enjoy a delicious meal at one of these fine restaurants.
Grizzly Island
Try Solano’s Great Outdoors Daily Republic Staff
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Discover Solano
hose who want to hike this summer along scenic trails have ample opportunities to do so here in Solano County, both near the city and well off the beaten path.
Bay Area Ridge Trail
Bay Area outdoors enthusiasts have long dreamed of having trail systems circling the region along its hilltops and along its waterways. The Bay Area Ridge Trail tackles the hilltop route. Some 330 miles of a targeted 550 miles of trails are open, including about 29 miles in Solano County. The Solano County portions pass through such areas as Lynch Canyon Open Space and Rockville Hills Regional Park in Fairfield and along McGary Road. More should be coming in future years. For example, the Solano Land Trust bought what was then known as the 1,500-acre Rockville Trails Preserve property in the hills above Suisun and Green valleys, providing the opportunity to extend the trail from adjacent Rockville Hills Park toward Napa County. The Rockville Trails property has since been renamed the Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space in honor of the native Patwin people who originally settled across the region. The Bay Trail envisions a 500-mile trail along the shorelines. Existing segments in Solano County include the Benicia Bridge and Carquinez Bridge pedestrian paths, as well as segments along the Benicia and Vallejo waterfronts.
FALL/WINTER 2021
More information: Bay Area Ridge Trail, www.ridgetrail.org; Bay Trail, www.baytrail.org
Brannan Island State Park This 365-acre park with its many waterways through the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is located on the lower end of Brannan Island. The Sacramento River is on its west, Three Mile Slough to the southeast and Seven Mile Slough is on its northeast. The park offers both day use and camping with a multiple-lane boat launch, picnicking, swimming, windsurfing and wildlife habitats within a maze of waterways.
Anglers can catch a variety of striped bass, sturgeon, catfish, bluegill, perch and bullhead. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. Location: 17645 Highway 160, Rio Vista (Highway 160 a few miles south of the city of Rio Vista in Sacramento County) More information:
www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=487
Grizzly Island Grizzly Island Wildlife Area is a 115,000-acre Suisun Marsh showplace that contains 10 percent of the state’s remaining wetlands, as well as sloughs and upland habitat. Much of the land is owned by 150 duck clubs and is
off-limits to the public. The 8,600-acre Grizzly Island Wildlife Area, 10 miles south of Suisun City, is open. Owned by the state Department of Fish and Game, it provides a place where people can hunt, fish and bird watch. The state also owns other land in the marsh that forms what it calls the 14,300-acre Grizzly Island Complex. On Grizzly Island itself, visitors can see such sights as tule elk, ducks, otters, herons, California clapper rails and many other types of wildlife. The Department of Fish and Games grooms land behind levees to grow vegetation favored by waterfowl, flooding and draining these areas at certain times of the year. Some historians say the name “Grizzly Island” comes from grizzly bears that long ago traveled to the area from Mount Diablo to eat rosehips and other vegetation. Location: Department of Fish and Game headquarters at 2548 Grizzly Island Road More information:
707-425-3828, www.dfg.ca.gov/ lands/wa/region3/grizzlyisland
Jepson Prairie Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of California’s best remaining examples of a vernal pool ecosystem and native grassland prairie. Dry and dormant most of
the year, the prairie is transformed each spring by winter rains into a tapestry of stunning colors, and its vernal pools host a rich diversity of rare aquatic life. Enjoy an easy guided walk which may include portions of the preserve that are only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. Learn about vernal pools and see the aquatic invertebrate and flowering plants that depend on them. The vernal pool flora at Jepson were first described in 1892 by botanist Willis Linn Jepson, but it took another 80 years for scientists and conservationists to gain enough momentum for protection. In the mid-1970s a committee was formed to protect Olcott Lake and the surrounding prairie. Two years after the Nature Conservancy purchased the 1,566-acre site, it was dedicated as the Willis Linn Jepson Prairie Preserve in 1982. In 1983, the University of California brought the preserve into the University’s Natural Reserve System. In 1987 the National Park Service designated Dixon Vernal Pools, of which Jepson is the centerpiece, a National Natural Landmark. Solano Land Trust assumes primary responsibility for the management of the land with the goal to preserve, protect and enhance the habitat for native plants and animals. Knowledgeable docents share information during guided tours about the beautiful flowers, and certified dipper docents show participants some of the fascinating aquatic invertebrate that live in the vernal pools. Location: Cook Lane off of Highway 113, 10 miles south of Dixon in rural Solano County. More information: Solano Land Trust. 707-432-0150, www.solanolandtrust.org
Joice Island
Rush Ranch
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Joice Island is a 2,150-acre property in Suisun Marsh that has been a state wildlife area since 1931, making it one of California’s first refuges. The island is managed by the Department of Fish and Game as part of its Grizzly Island Wildlife Area. Joice Island allows less public access than Grizzly Island itself, which has the Department of Fish and Game headquarters. Waterfowl hunters Discover Solano
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can hunt on Joice Island during the duck hunting season by reservation only. Joice Island is also the site of the annual wild pig hunt. Hunters during the spring can get permits to help control the wild pig population there. Location: About 4 miles south of Suisun City and Highway 12 near Grizzly Island Road More information: 707-4253828 or www.dfg.ca.gov/lands/wa/ region3/grizzlyisland/index.html
King-Swett Ranches The King-Swett Ranches are a hidden treasure yet to be discovered by most Bay Area residents. This recently protected 3,956-acre expanse of land straddles the southwestern corner of Solano County. Views from atop King Ranch sweep across the Suisun Marsh all the way to the Sierras, with Mount Diablo rising to the south. On the western edge of Vallejo-Swett Ranch, views include the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tamalpais, the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, and the Napa River and marshes. The steep hilly grasslands, oak woodlands and riparian corridors provide habitat for a wide variety of species, including many that are rare and endangered. Johnny jump-ups provide habitat for rare butterflies. Several ponds provide prime habitat for the endangered California red-legged frog. Slivers of serpentine soils support native grasses such as purple needlegrass, blue wild rye and numerous wildflowers. The hills are a raptor’s paradise where golden eagles, Northern harriers, burrowing owls, and Swainson’s, Cooper’s and red-tailed hawks scan the open grasslands for food. Birders will delight in spotting Northern orioles, towhees, Western bluebirds, Swainson’s thrushes, Western kingbirds, black phoebes, tree swallows, and western meadowlarks. Mammals include black-tailed deer, coyotes and ground squirrels. The King-Swett Ranches are currently open to the public for staff- or docent-led activities only. A nature hike takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first Saturday of the month most months. 30 |
Discover Solano
Jepson Prairie Location: Between Interstates 680 and 80 near Fairfield (to the northeast), Benicia (to the south) and Vallejo (to the west) More information:
www.solanolandtrust.org
Lagoon Valley/ Pena Adobe Park Lagoon Valley/Peña Adobe Regional Park offers a great mix of recreation and history for residents, with hiking and biking trails, a lake for fishing, picnic areas, a dog park, the Peña Adobe and the Goheen-Mowers Museum. The two parks, which cover more than 470 acres, are run by Vacaville and are halfway between Fairfield and Vacaville on the south side of Interstate 80. The 106-acre lagoon is the home to a considerable population of geese and ducks, as well as a nice backdrop for the many running and bicycling events that take place in the parking lot and use the trails that run through the surrounding hills. Historic Peña Adobe was built in the 1840s by some of Vacaville’s first pioneers and hosts many spring and summertime youth parks programs. Both the adobe and the adjacent Goheen-Mowers Museum were renovated and reopened to the public more than a decade ago. Volunteers now offer demonstrations of early pioneer and American Indian life the first Saturday of every month in conjunction with the Rush Ranch
Peña Adobe Park Educational Council. Location: Entrance to both Lagoon Valley Park and Peña Adobe on Peña Adobe Road just off Rivera Road, just west of Vacaville More information: Lagoon Valley Park: www.cityofvacaville. com/index.aspx?page=375. Peña Adobe/Goheen-Mowers Museum: 707-447-0518, www.penaadobe.org
Lynch Canyon Lynch Creek, at 1,039 acres, is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna that includes buckeyes, oaks and wetland meadows, and deer, fox, bobcat, waterfowl, and many raptors to include red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks, and the majestic golden eagle. Also of interest are specimens of native
grasses. A small reservoir provides a home to muskrats, great blue herons and endangered California red-legged frogs. Lynch Canyon is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays through Mondays. It may be closed on short notice in case of high fire danger, extreme rain or construction. For those who want more of a hands-on experience, volunteer work days are scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon the second Saturday of most months. Guided horseback rides are available to experienced riders with fit horses on any day that a docent agrees to lead such a ride. Location: Just north of Interstate 80 between American Canyon Road and Highway 12 (Jameson Canyon Road) More information:
www.solanolandtrust.org
FALL/WINTER 2021
Mare Island Patwino Worrtla Shoreline Heritage Kodoi Dihi Open Space Park Preserve
King-Swett Ranches
Lynch Canyon
Visitors to the preserve at Mare Island in Vallejo can take in both history and nature. A trail leads to the top of a 284-foot hill overlooking San Pablo Bay, with distant views of Mount Tamalpais, Mount Diablo and Mount St. Helena. Those who don’t want to hike can still see Mare Island cemetery and century-old stone buildings at the old ammunition depot left over from the island’s long history as a naval shipyard. Access to the preserve was restricted for several months due to wildfires that occurred there and on Mare Island in the fall of 2019. The preserve reopened to the community in the spring of 2020. Check ahead of time for access requirements. Location: Railroad Avenue at southern tip of Mare Island More information: Erin Hanford, erin.hanford@ cityofvallejo.net, 707-648-5406
Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space Park, formerly Rockville Trails Preserve, epitomizes the beauty, rural character and quiet splendor that is Solano County. Filled with stands of blue and live oaks, temporal vernal pools, wildflowers and wildlife, the preserve’s 1,500 acres provides a connection to the region’s past and a vision for the future. As you explore this land, it is easy to imagine a time when Patwin Indians walked the oak forests and stood on the highest mesa to look out over the valleys below. The forests, rugged hills and high ridges that they saw hundreds of years ago are largely unchanged. This new natural park will be the gateway for visitors from the local community, the Bay Area and the Central Valley into the western hills of Solano County and beyond. Solano Land Trust will preserve and protect Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space Park and
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T Rockville Hills Regional Park
EXPERIENCE DOWNTOWN BENICIA
its biological and cultural resources for generations to come. The nonprofit values sustaining agriculture on this property and foresees compatible public access, education and scientific discovery as a means to connect this land with the community. The property is only available for specified docent-led tours. Guided horseback rides are available to experienced riders with fit horses on any day that a docent agrees to lead such a ride. More information: Solano Land Trust. 707-432-0150, www.solanolandtrust.org
Rockville Hills Regional Park
Make Benicia Main Street your first stop when exploring the scenic town of Benicia. The Downtown visitor center is located in the historic train depot at the foot of First Street. You’ll find lots of information, gifts, and souvenirs. Then explore the shops, restaurants, spas, historical sites and artful whimsy that line the 12 blocks of First Street. We’re located at 90 First Street, on the waterfront.
707-428-7614, www.fairfield. ca.gov/gov/depts/pw/open_ space/rockville_hills_regional_park
“A GREAT DAY BY THE BAY”
King-Swett Ranches
For More Information Visit Our Website www.beniciamainstreet.org or call us at (707) 745-9791. 32 |
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The park includes 633 beautiful acres of grasslands and oak woodlands, with a dense mixed broadleaf forest. The rich, biological and diverse habitats provide shelter to a variety of wildlife that make the park their home. The park is maintained by the city of Fairfield and features hiking and mountain bike trails. Location: 2149 Rockville Road in Fairfield, about three-quarters of a mile west of the intersection of Rockville Road and Suisun Valley Road. Park entrance on the left side of the road. More information:
The King-Swett Ranches are a hidden treasure yet to be discovered by most Bay Area residents. This recently protected
3,956-acre expanse of land straddles the southwestern corner of Solano County. Views from atop King Ranch sweep across the Suisun Marsh all the way to the Sierras, with Mount Diablo rising to the south. On the western edge of Vallejo-Swett Ranch, views include the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tamalpais, the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, and the Napa River and marshes. The steep hilly grasslands, oak woodlands and riparian corridors provide habitat for a wide variety of species, including many that are rare and endangered. Johnny jump-ups provide habitat for rare butterflies. Several ponds provide prime habitat for the endangered California red-legged frog. Slivers of serpentine soils support native grasses such as purple needlegrass, blue wild rye and numerous wildflowers. The hills are a raptor’s paradise where golden eagles, Northern harriers, burrowing owls, and Swainson’s, Cooper’s and red-tailed hawks scan the open grasslands for food. Birders will delight in spotting Northern orioles, towhees, Western bluebirds, Swainson’s thrushes, Western kingbirds, black phoebes, tree swallows, and western meadowlarks. Mammals include black-tailed deer, coyotes and ground squirrels. The King-Swett Ranches are currently open to the public for staff- or docent-led activities only. A nature hike takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first Saturday of the month most months. Location: Between Interstates 680 and 80 near Fairfield (to the northeast), Benicia (to the south) and Vallejo (to the west) More information:
www.solanolandtrust.org
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Looking for somewhere to go that’s got a local feel? Interested in seeing something interesting? Each community in Solano County has much to offer. Here’s a sample, but be sure to check ahead to see what restrictions remain in place to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus:
Benicia Downtown Benicia Downtown Benicia offers myriad festivals and events for all ages. The fall season offers plenty of activities, from a farmers market to various community celebrations and more. More information: 707-745-9791, www.beniciamainstreet.org
Sepay Groves Olive Oil Sepay Groves Olive Oil, the oldest olive oil store in Solano County, offers an expansive variety of award-winning extra virgin and flavored olive oils and serves as an outlet store for the oldest operating olive oil producer in Suisun Valley, who arguably produces the best Tuscan extra virgin olive oil in Northern California. All oils and vinegars are bottled by hand in small batches to maintain their integrity, with the oils sold in their first year of life. Location: 364 First St., Benicia For appointments and more information: 707-434-8222,
www.sepayoliveoil.com
Benicia State Recreation Area The shores of Southampton Bay are home to one of Solano County’s few state parks. People come to Benicia State Recreation Area to walk, run, cycle, birdwatch and fish. The state lists the Dillon’s Point marsh as an area in the park particularly favored by anglers. A few motorhome campsites are available, though no tent campsites. It has 2.5 miles of FALL/WINTER 2021
Benicia State Recreation Area roads and paths. Benicia State Park is also home to the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden. The only other Solano County state park is Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, though the county does have state wildlife refuges. Location: Columbus Parkway exit
from Interstate 780 in Benicia
More information: 707-648-1911,
www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=476
Benicia Capitol State Historic Park Benicia briefly served as California’s capital 150 years ago. Benicia Capitol State Historic Park commemorates the era of 1853 to 1854. The old capitol building remains and is open to visitors. Vallejo was the state capital before Benicia, but Gen. Mariano Vallejo failed to provide the promised buildings and lawmakers
moved it. Benicia has a Greek temple-style capitol building, but this too failed to convince state lawmakers to stay in Solano County. Sacramento became the capital in March 1854. The Benicia Capitol building over the years served as a fire station, police station and even a dance hall. The Benicia Capitol is the only pre-Sacramento capitol building that remains. Location: 115 W. G St., Benicia More information: 707-745-3385,
www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=475
Benicia Marina Located between the Sacramento River Delta and San Francisco Bay, the Benicia Marina is a jewel located on the north side of the Carquinez Strait, with spectacular views from every slip in the harbor. It offers guest berthing, power, water and a
safe environment. It is also only a short walk away from downtown Benicia’s charming First Street and its shops as well as walking and bike trails. Guest boats must check in at the marina office for berth assignments. Call in advance for the availability of either transient or overnight berthing. Location: 266 E. B St., Benicia More information: 707-745-2628,
www.beniciamarina.net
Dixon Sacramento Valley National Cemetery The Sacramento Valley National Cemetery is the seventh national cemetery built in California and the Discover Solano
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Places to go . . . see people t ! '$ 2(. (+ /(-"' ., &(' -! ,-ň REFRESH YOUR HOME!
124th in the nation. It opened to burials in 2006. It is located on Midway Road between Vacaville and Dixon. The cemetery should serve the needs of the area for the next 50 years. It opened with 14 acres for interment of local veterans and their loved ones, and has steadily expanded. Location: 5810 Midway Road,
Dixon More information:
707-693-2460, www.cem.va.gov/ cems/nchp/sacramento.asp
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From being a local secret to world-famous, the pint-sized jelly bean offers a variety of flavors and colors at the Jelly Belly Candy Company. Starting in the lobby filled with jelly bean art and eclectic decorations, guests can tour the factory daily. Tours leave every 10 to 15 minutes and last about 40 minutes. Free samples of Jelly Belly products are available. During the 40-minute walking tour, Jelly Belly guides will show guests a working factory where more than 150 different sweet treats are made. Learn the secrets to how they create the legendary Jelly Belly jelly bean and discover why it takes more than a week to make a single bean. The factory is not in operation Saturdays and Sundays. Tours continue when the factory is not in operation.
More information:
800-9-JELLYBEAN, www.jellybelly.com
Jelly Belly Candy Company
Solano Town Center Solano Town Center mall is one of Solano County’s major shopping and restaurant areas. The two-story mall has about 130 storefronts, ranging from department stores to recruiting offices to movie theaters. It is also a destination for various walking clubs that want to escape the weather. Children can climb and explore the bright, colorful play area filled with animal characters, large puzzles and plenty of space to stretch their legs. Developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the mall has gone through various renovations through the years. The latest brought an $8.5 million, 33,000-squarefoot dining court to the mall in April 2011. The mall was renovated end-to-end in 2006 at a cost of $20 million. Location: 1350 Travis Blvd.,
Fairfield
More information:
707-425-1164, www. solanotowncenter.com
Fairfield Aquatics Complex Whether it’s exercise, a birthday party or swim lessons, the Fairfield Aquatics Complex
Sacramento Valley National Cemetery offers a lane or slide for all occasions. The center features a natatorium with retractable roof, a zero-depth entry play area, a lazy river current for fun and a six-lane activity pool with a slide and diving board. The outside shallow play area for kids includes slides, climbing structures, water-dumping toys and water-spray toys adjacent to a grass area for families to lounge and enjoy the sunshine. There is also a picnic area for large groups to use for the day or rent the entire facility after hours for company parties, school field trips or special occasions. There is an indoor meeting room and party rooms for smaller groups to enjoy the FALL/WINTER 2021
facilities and catered to in a private setting. A concession stand provides hot and cold drinks and food.
closed in early June.
Location: Allan Witt Park,
More information:
More information:
707-389-4815, www. tastesonomaharvest.com
1741 W. Texas St., Fairfield
707-428-7428, www.fairfield.ca.gov
Sonoma Harvest Olive Oil & Winery Suisun City Waterfront
Fairfield Aquatics Complex
Sonoma Harvest Olive Oil & Winery’s stylish tasting room offers complimentary tastings of almost all of the available Sonoma Harvest food products, including its gourmet olive oils, vinegars, mustards, honey, tapanades, jams, sauces and more. A wine tasting includes the full flight and features four varietals. The tasting room features a wellequipped kids’ club so the little ones can be entertained by puzzles, games, and movies while the adults sip some wine, sample yummy bites and shop among wine country merchandise. Sonoma Harvest’s tasting room is open from noon to e p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The tasting room reopened in March as restrictions to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus eased. The kids’ club remained
Location: 770 Chadbourne Road
in Fairfield
Suisun City Suisun City Waterfront A bevy of shops, restaurants and cafés beckon local residents and visitors to the Suisun City waterfront. Fishermen, dog walkers and people just taking a stroll can be seen at the waterfront almost daily. Much of the activity is centered around the Harbor Plaza at Main and Solano streets, which has hosted concerts and plenty of community activities. The waterfront is often referred to as “a jewel” of the community. Location: Main Street, Suisun City
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. . . o g o t s e c a Pl see people t More information:
www.suisunwaterfront.com
Suisun Wildlife Center
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The Suisun Wildlife Center serves as a sanctuary for injured birds and wildlife and a place where people can learn about the natural world of the Suisun Marsh. It is located at the foot of Kellogg Street next to the Suisun City boat ramp. The center’s predecessor, the Wildlife Rescue and Release Services, began in 1977. The center relies heavily on volunteers who do presentations and guide field trips. It is also home to about a dozen nonreleasable raptors, raccoons, coyotes and other animals that help with the staff’s wildlife education program. Location: 1171 Kellogg St.,
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olives are milled. They can dip pieces of fresh bread in the golden-green oil and savor the rich taste. Certain times of the year, Il Fiorello opens the mill to the public and processes what people bring in. There are also tastings available, as well as various classes throughout the year.
Location: Mankas Corner Road
Location: East Monte Vista
and Clayton Road
Avenue at Nut Tree Road
More information:
More information:
4295, www.suisunwildlife.org
For appointments and more information: 707-864-1529,
Road, rural Fairfield
www.ilfiorello.com
Named after the small white flowers of the olive trees, Il Fiorello Olive Oil Company offers tours of the mill that produces the oils from the locally grown fruit. The family owned company produces artisan olive oil from the Suisun Valley and Green Valley orchards. Using a modern continuous-system olive mill, it can process 1,700 pounds of olives per hour. Tours give folks the chance to stand at the final separator, the cucciolo, as the
Nut Tree Plaza
Manka’s Corner is a small commercial area amid the farmlands of Suisun Valley. Solano County is promoting Suisun Valley as an agricultural tourist draw and Manka’s Corner is a key part of the plan, given that it has restaurants and shops where valley visitors can stop. People can eat at the Mankas BackDoor Grill, sample local wines at Suisun Valley Filling Station, Vezer Family Vineyards, or buy used and collectable items at John’s Hauling. The area’s name comes from Christley Manka, a pioneer to Suisun Valley around 1850. He established a tavern at what is now Manka’s Corner.
Located: 2625 Mankas Corner
Suisun Valley
Vacaville Nut Tree Plaza, next to Interstate 80 in northeast Vacaville, is an entertaining blend of the old and new, with a wide host of retail businesses sharing the land with a family oriented town plaza that features the restored Nut Tree train and a carousel. The plaza inherited the legacy of the original Nut Tree, which was founded in 1921 when the Power family set up a small fruit stand under a large oak tree beside the road that is now I-80. It grew into the most popular road stop between Sacramento and San Francisco, offering a restaurant, dried fruits, toys, children’s rides, aviation books, souvenirs, gemstones and a post office. The original Nut Tree closed in 1996, only to be reborn as the Nut Tree Plaza, which offers a mix of more than 40 restaurants and businesses that includes the Fenton’s Creamery, See’s Candy and major businesses such as Best Buy. Nut Tree’s town plaza typically hosts special events.
Suisun City
More information: 707-429-
Il Fiorello Olive Oil Company
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Suisun Wildlife Center
Manka’s Corner
www.suisunvalley.com
www.nuttreeusa.com FALL/WINTER 2021
Downtown Vacaville Nut Tree Plaza
Downtown Vacaville Clustered around the intersection of Merchant and Main streets, Vacaville’s downtown is an active and entertaining neighborhood with activities that range from summertime farmers markets and town square concerts to major community events. It is a historically well-preserved town center with more than two dozen restaurants, cafes and bars sharing the sidewalks with a healthy selection of small
FALL/WINTER 2021
shops and businesses that run the gamut from bicycle stores and travel agencies to photo studios and fitness centers. The downtown’s businesssupported activities include the mid-spring to mid-fall Certified Farmers Market each Saturday at the Creekwalk Plaza at Andrews Park. Location: Area surrounding
Merchant and Main streets More information:
707-451-2100; www. downtownvacaville.com
Vacaville Premium Outlets It’s easy to spend an entire day shopping at the impressive collection of more than 120 retail outlets in the Vacaville Premium Outlets. The retail campus is one of the largest shopping destinations in the Sacramento/San Francisco Bay area. Reviews by shoppers laud its wide selection of stores that includes major names such as Calvin Klein, Nike and Polo Ralph Lauren, as well as some really good deals for those who are willing to hunt. Reviewers’ only downside is
the sheer size and its popularity for everyone from local shoppers to tour buses, which can make finding weekend parking an adventure of its own. For those who want a break from all the bargain hunting, there is a good selection of sit-down restaurants such as The Olive Garden and fast food joints such as In-N-Out Burger within walking distance. Location: 321 Nut Tree Road,
Vacaville
More information:
707-447-5755; www.premiumoutlets. com
Discover Solano
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Places to go . . . see people t
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
Vallejo Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Known years ago as Marine World/Africa USA for its ocean and continental wildlife, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is now known more for its rides. Take a topsy, turvy spin on the thriller coaster, Superman, or one of the many other thrill, family or children’s rides. See cougars and dolphins, walruses and penguins, among other animals. Take in a wildlife show, eat some food and take in an exhibit. The park also transforms during some holidays, adding special attractions for the Fourth of July, Halloween and Christmas celebrations. Season passes are available. Location: 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo (From Fairfield: Take Interstate 80
westbound. From Interstate 80, take the Discovery Kingdom exit)
More information:
707-643-6722 for recorded information; 707-644-4000 for administrative office, www.sixflags.com/discoverykingdom
Residential and Commercial Service 24/7 New location in Vacaville to better serve Vacaville, Dixon, Winters & Davis
(707) 368-4055
www.BeniciaPlumbing.com CA Lic. #329632
Children’s Wonderland Park Acres of pure childhood joy await at this Vallejo park, with castles, a giant teapot, fire truck and other play structures as well as Cinderella’s carriage and modern play structures. A fully fenced park with plenty of highimagination play areas, picnic facilities, open space, a craft area and an outdoor theater, Children’s Wonderland provides plenty of fun for the youngsters. Birthday party packages are available as well as multiple-visit passes. Location: 360 Glenn St., Vallejo More information:
707-980-8004, www.gvrd.org/?page=Childrens_Wonderland
San Francisco Bay Ferry Used by both commuters and tourists headed from Solano County to San Francisco, the San Francisco Bay Ferry, formerly the Vallejo Bay Ferry, offers another option to traveling to the interior Bay Area. The San Francisco Bay Ferry leaves the Vallejo waterfront several times daily to bring travelers across San Pablo Bay to the San Francisco Ferry Building. Ferry commuters
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FALL/WINTER 2021
Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley
Road, rural Winters More information: 530-795-2900,
www.co.solano.ca.us/depts/rm/ countypark/lakesolano.asp
Historic Downtown Winters
Lake Solano County Park avoid the traffic and get stunning views of the region. The trip takes about an hour. Some ferries also stop at Pier 41. In addition to the daily trips, the ferry offers special service to San Francisco Giants games. There is a fee to park. Location: 289 Mare Island Way More information: 877-643-
3779, www.sanfranciscobayferry.com
Winters Lake Solano County Park Located between Winters and Lake Berryessa, Lake Solano Park is found
along the coastal foothills along Putah Creek. The park offers a variety of activities: fishing, boating, camping, swimming, picnicking, hiking, biking, bird watching and wildlife photography. More than 200,000 visitors a year enjoy the activities, which include 83 campsites – 36 have water and electric hookups.
Winters has a classic 19th century downtown, complete with old brick buildings. The Yolo County town, 12 miles north of Vacaville, has buildings dating back to 1876. The Main Street business district is on the National Register of Historic Places. Among the buildings is the one-time Hotel DeVilbiss, built in 1889. Its Italianate design and arched windows contribute to the effect of its being a grand hotel. It is home to such businesses as the Buckhorn Restaurant. The downtown has wine tasting rooms, restaurants and a restored Putah Creek. The creek has walking trails and can be seen from the restored Trestle Bridge. Location: Main Street, Winters More information:
530-795-2329, visitwinters.com
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Sun 11:30am-9pm | Mon CLOSED | Tue-Thur 11:30am-9pm Fri 11:30am-10pm | Sat 11:30am-10pm
WarM WeLcoMe BacK
707-759-2463 Welcome to Two60 Kitchen and Bar. We serve a variety of New American Cuisine, along with a list of refreshing signature cocktails, beer & wine.
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260 Pittman Road Unit A, Fairfield Discover Solano
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Celebrating our 36thYear! 4606 Suisun Valley Road • Suisun Valley Corner of Suisun Valley Road & Ledgewood Road Open everyday but Wednesday 9AM - 5PM
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Come by the Mangels Vineyard Tasting Room Friday - Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm. We have lovely outdoor seating. 4529 Suisun Valley Rd., Fairfield CA 94534 707-410-5392 • MangelsVineyards.com
Voted Readers’ Choice 2021 “Best Local Wine” & “Best Winery to Visit” Family owned and operated for three generations.
Tasting Room Gift Shop Picnic Facilities Wine Club
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Downtown Theatre
Solano A&E scene
shows signs of life for second fall season of pandemic Daily Republic Staff
S Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre
FALL/WINTER 2021
olano County, positioned as it is roughly equidistant from both San Francisco and Sacramento, offers easy access to top-flight entertainment venues while also offering a wide array of activities close to home. Is live theater your passion? It’s here. Live musical and comedy entertainment? You betcha. Love art? Solano
County has that as well – in abundance. Be sure to check with each venue as they reopen for access restrictions related to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Downtown Theatre Playing host to hundreds of community events each year including concerts, festivals and seminars and performances, the Downtown Theatre is the cultural hub of the Fairfield area. Also home to an art gallery, new works are shown each month at the Discover Solano
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center. Admission to the gallery is free during hours of operation. The award-winning, 360-seat theater received an exterior facelift in August 2018 with the addition of a state-ofthe-art lighted marquee. The theater and other facilities can be rented out to host your special event as well. Location: 1035 Texas St., Fairfield More information: 707-940-0700, www.downtowntheatre.com
Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre The Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre offers an attractive setting for performances, meetings and other special events. A spacious courtyard entrance, two-story lobby and private patio create an airy and inviting atmosphere. It’s centrally located between San Francisco and Sacramento in the Vacaville Cultural Center, the Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre is convenient to Interstate 80. Numerous restaurants and exciting shopping experiences are just a few minutes away. The theater boasts an 80-foot by 40-foot stage with 40-foot by 20-footproscenium. Acclaimed for the quality of its world-class acoustics and excellent sightlines, the theater is equipped with professional sound and lighting systems, a full orchestra pit for 32 musicians, two large dressing rooms and a professional height fly system to accommodate full-size scenery. The theater also offers a 9-foot Kawai concert grand piano, a Baldwin upright grand piano, 75 musician chairs, music stands, a conductor’s podium and lecterns to support business, educational or performance needs. Location: 1010 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville More information: 707-469-4013,
https://vpat.net
Empress Theatre Vallejo’s Empress Theatre opened in February 1912, hosting a vaudeville act. It was re-opened in 2008 after nearly 20 years of non-use due to damage from the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. The one-room movie house has undergone complete renovation and seismic retrofit. Operated as a nonprofit, it now shows movies, hosts live performances and is rented for private events. Tours and sales of old movie posters also are offered. Location: 330 Virginia St., Vallejo
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Harbor Arts Theater More information: 707-552-2400,
www.empresstheatre.org
Harbor Arts Theater The Harbor Arts Theater is part of the Harbor Arts Center and is run by the Creative Arts Collection. The Creative Arts Collective fosters community involvement through creative arts educational programs and family friendly activities. The goal of the organization is to enhance cultural appreciation and enliven the surrounding community with extraordinary creative works projects. It is its mission to ensure access to the arts for each individual within the community. Location: 720 Main St., Suisun City More information: 707-435-3800,
www.suisunharbortheatre.org
Winters Opera House The Winters Opera House dates back to the 19th century and is one of the state’s oldest theaters. It’s now home to The Palms Playhouse. The brick building was constructed in 1876, originally as a grocery store. It later served as a merchandise store. The restored opera house is on the second floor and has hosted various entertainment and civic events over the years. The schedule for coming weeks can be found at its website.
Location: 13 Main St., Winters More information: 530-795-1825,
www.palmsplayhouse.com
UC Davis Mondavi Center Robert and Margrit Mondavi gave $10 million in 2001 to help build the Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts, which opened in 2002. It is now recognized as a regional performing arts landmark. The Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts presents nearly 200 performances each year, making it one of Northern California’s premier arts destinations. Performances include some of the best talent from around the world and performances by both professional and student artists in music, dance, theater and spoken word. The Mondavi Center’s main performance space, the 1,800-seat Jackson Hall, features nextgeneration theatrical equipment and superb acoustics, making it a favorite for the world’s greatest orchestras, jazz bands, and dance and theater companies. The center’s 200-seat Vanderhoef Studio Theatre provides high-tech space for rehearsals, film screenings and intimate musical experiences. Location: One Shields Ave.,
University of California, Davis
More information: 530-754-2787,
www.mondaviarts.org
Solano Symphony Orchestra The Solano Symphony Orchestra is in the midst of its 34th season, with performances this season thus far offered virtually. Performances are scheduled March 28 (World’s Greatest Classics) and May 2 (Annual Pops Concert). The symphony was founded in 1987 to provide an avenue for local musicians to perform and expand their musical talent. It has grown into the distinguished orchestra we enjoy today. Maestro Semyon Lohss became the music director and conductor in the 1992-1993 season, leading the orchestra to an ever-higher standard of excellence. Like diamonds and pearls, the Solano Symphony Orchestra is timeless in its transcendent interpretation of classical music. This season’s 2021-2022 season is scheduled to begin in October. More information: 707-455-7211,
www.solanosymphony.org
Vallejo Symphony The Vallejo Symphony continues its run as one of the oldest in the state. The symphony, which performs at various venues, was formed when a group of community leaders determined that local musicians FALL/WINTER 2021
needed a showcase for their talents. At the same time, community members could be enriched by attending live performances. On Feb. 21, 1931, a 60-piece orchestra, under the direction of Julius Weyand, made its debut in the auditorium of the city’s newly dedicated Veterans Memorial Building. For several years, the concerts took place at the Hogan High School auditorium. The symphony moved to the Empress Theatre for the 2017-18 season. A performance to close out the 2019-2020 season and performances throughout the 2020-2021 season were canceled due to lockdowns that were put in place to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus that causes Covid-19. The 2o21-2022 season remains in flux. More information: 707-643-4441,
www.vallejosymphony.org
Benicia Plein Air Gallery The Benicia Plein Air Gallery specializes in the work of local artists who capture the outdoor scenes in and around Benicia, the Carquinez
maintains the gallery at the Solano Town Center mall in Fairfield. Annual events include Art on the Vive and the annual Student Art Show. More information: 707-688-8889,
www.fvaa-arts.org
Glashoff’s Studio
Glashoff’s Studio Straits and the San Francisco Bay Area. The open-air gallery, which closed as a result of lockdowns to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, showcases the works each month of one of its many artists, with creations that range from classical landscapes to saturated pastels. The featured artist for April is Michael Dadasovich. The featured artist for May is Kathleen Gadway. Location: 307 First St., Benicia More information: 707-297-5903,
www.beniciapleinair.com
Fairfield-Suisun Visual Arts Association The Fairfield-Suisun Visual Arts Association is a nonprofit organization of visual artists and friends of the arts working in collaboration with the community to promote artistic creativity, education, and expression. The association
Home to an eclectic array of art and sculptures, Phil Glashoff’s farm in Suisun Valley also shows off the agricultural side, with a seasonal fruit stand and pumpkin patch. One of the area’s most prominent artists, Glashoff’s works can be toured by appointment. Those in the area can visit for produce in October. Much of the art is made up of salvaged rusty machinery, fire extinguishers, compressor covers, motorcycle tanks and other items that had been abandoned and scattered around the farm. The sculptures have brought Glashoff attention from around the world. Those who appreciate art find there is goodwill and humor in each piece. Location: 2489 Rockville Road,
Suisun Valley
More information: 707-427-8060,
glashoffgallery@aol.com
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Discover Solano
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History comes alive at Solano’s
National Register of Historic Places
F
Daniel Webster Harrier House: rom the Western 739 Ohio St., Vallejo. Privately Railway Museum owned. east of Suisun City to Hastings Adobe: Northeast of Stonedene in FairCollinsville. Privately owned. field, Solano County is full of USS LCS(L)(3)-102: 7th and Nimitz historic buildings and sites. streets, Mare Island. Mare Island Historic District: At least 20 Solano County Includes the old shipyard, on Mare structures are on the National Island. Federally and privately Register of Historic Places. The owned. list contained a few more, but Masonic Temple-Naval Lodge ships such as the U.S. Coast No. 87 Free and Accepted Masons: Guard Cutter Storis and the 707 Marine St., Vallejo. Old Masonic Hall: 106 W. J St., Delta King have moved on. Benicia. Privately owned. Some of the historic places, Benicia Capitol State Historic Park Samuel Martin House, or such as the Benicia state Stonedene: 293 Suisun Valley Road, capitol and the Pena Adobe Fairfield. Privately owned. near Vacaville, are open to the public. Others, such as the Samuel Peña Adobe: in Lagoon Valley/Peña Adobe Regional Park on Peña Adobe Road. Martin House – also known as Stonedene – are privately owned, Owned by Vacaville. 707-447-0518, www.penaadobe.org. Pleasants Ranch: 8212 Pleasants Valley Road, Vacaville. Privately owned but but can still be admired for their exterior architecture. available for some events. www.joyfulranch.com/index.htm. The county sites on the historic register are: Benicia Arsenal, Army Point: Interstate 680, Benicia. www.beniciahistoricalmuseum.org. Benicia Capitol State Historic Park: First Street and G Street, Benicia. Owned by state. 707-745-3385, www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=475. Benicia Cemetery: Bounded by Riverhill Drive, Riverview Terrace, Shirley Drive and Incline Place. Owned by Benicia. Benicia Southern Pacific Railroad Passenger Depot: 90 First St., Benicia. Bird and Dinkelspiel Store: 2145 Collinsville Road, Birds Landing. Privately owned. Jackson Fay Brown House: 6751 Maine Prairie Road, Dixon. Privately owned. Will H. Buck House: 301 Buck Ave., Vacaville. Privately owned. Carr House: 165 E. D St., Benicia. Privately owned. Crooks Mansion: 285 W. G St., Benicia. Privately owned. Dixon Carnegie Library: 135 E. B St., Dixon. Joseph Fischer House: 135 G St., Benicia. Owned by state. 707-745-3385.
Sacramento Northern Railway Historic District-Western Railway Museum: 5848 Highway 12. 707-374-2978, www.wrm.org. Saint Vincent’s Hill Historic District: In Vallejo bounded by Mare Island Way almost to Sonoma Boulevard and from Quincy Alley to Kissel Alley. Owned by private parties and local government. Stamboul (Whaling Bark): Foot of West 12th Street, Benicia. Owned by Benicia. Suisun Masonic Lodge No. 55: 623 Main St., Suisun City. Privately owned. Vacaville Town Hall: 620 E. Main St., Vacaville. Owned by Vacaville. Vallejo City Hall and County Building Branch: 734 Marin St., Vallejo. Owned by Vallejo. Vallejo Old City Historic District: Bounded by Sonoma Boulevard and Monterey, Carolina and York streets in Vallejo. Privately owned. Von Pfister General Store: Von Pfister Alley along waterfront between C and D streets, Benicia. Westminster Presbyterian Church and Cemetery of Tremont: 8290 Tremont Road, Dixon.www.silveyvillecemetery.com/tremont-cemetery. DS
Pleasants Ranch
Samuel Martin House 48 |
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FALL/WINTER 2021
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Discover Solano
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Museums
continue to share Solano, military history Daily Republic Staff
A
nyone who is interested in local history has no shortage of places to go to get a taste of what makes Solano County the place it is today. There are museums in Benicia, Fairfield, Suisun City, Vacaville, Vallejo, Rio Vista, Benicia and in rural Suisun Valley – each with something different to offer. Be sure to check with the museums as they reopen for new access requirements linked to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Travis Heritage Center The Travis Heritage Center holds an extensive collection of aircraft and artifacts detailing the history of Travis Air Force Base, airlift, space exploration and military air power. Founded in 1983, the center is surrounded by an impressive collection of restored historic military aircraft that includes the B-29 Superfortress, a Vietnam-era B-52 Stratofortress, an F-4C Phantom Fighter, a C-124 Globemaster II, a C-47 Skytrain and an F-86 Sabre fighter. Inside, there are exhibits containing artifacts, documents, aircraft models, uniforms, aircraft nose art and photos from the dawn of military air power in World War I to present-day military and humanitarian operations around the world. Due to post-9/11 security concerns, aviation lovers will need a base visitor’s pass to see the Travis Heritage Center. Location: Travis Heritage Center,
400 Brennan Circle, Travis Air Force Base More information: 707-424-5605, www.travisheritagecenter.org
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Travis Heritage Center
American Armory Museum The American Armory Museum strives to educate future generations about, and impress upon them, the sacrifice, bravery and enduring significance of the U.S. military. Numerous vehicles are on display, with some available for rides. Various static displays are also set up to illustrate life in the field while in the armed forces. The museum features such military vehicles as the 1955 Larc amphibious cargo hauler, the M35A2 cargo truck, the 1944 M5A4 artillery tractor, the M936A1 wrecker and recovery truck, the FV433 Abbot self-propelled artillery vehicle, the HET 1070 heavy equipment transport, an Israeli M-5 half-track armored personnel carrier, a Ford GWP jeep, the M561 Gama Goat amphibious vehicle and the
Super Mack heavy-duty truck. Ask in advance about ride fees. The museum opened in May 2016. Admission is free, although donations are accepted. Call for hours. Ride fees for vehicles are to be determined and are subject to change without notice. Location: 4144 Abernathy Road,
rural Fairfield in Suisun Valley
More information: 707-389-6846,
info@AmericanArmoryMuseum.org, www.americanarmorymuseum.org.
Western Railway Museum Electric trains still rumble through rural eastern Solano County, just as they did some 75 years ago. Today, it’s all for fun, rather than providing mass transit between the Sacramento and Oakland areas. The Western Railway Museum runs
classic trains on a portion of the old route near the Montezuma Hills. Volunteers care for the tracks, overhead electrical wires and old streetcars and trains. Visitors can go for a ride, explore dozens of restored streetcars and learn about the history of urban and interurban electric train services in Solano County and California. The F.M. Smith Memorial Library features a circulating collection of books that are available to members. The library also hosts periodic activities and events. Location: 5848 Highway 12, between
Suisun City and Rio Vista
More information: 707-374-2978,
www.wrm.org
Vacaville Museum Since it was established in 1984, the Vacaville Museum has prided itself FALL/WINTER 2021
on preserving and educating the public about all of Solano County’s cultural and historical heritage. The museum has produced more than 40 exhibits on the area’s history, from American Indian artifacts found in and around Vacaville to the region’s famous fruit industry. It does not offer any permanent exhibits and produces two temporary exhibits every year. It also hosts public events such as Sallie Fox Day, which teaches local schoolchildren about the life and times of California pioneer girl Sallie Fox. Location: 213 Buck Ave., Vacaville More information: 707-447-4513;
www.vacavillemuseum.org
Lagoon Valley/ Pena Adobe Park/GoheenMowers Museum Lagoon Valley/Peña Adobe Regional Park offers a mix of recreation and history, with hiking and biking trails, a lake for fishing, picnic areas, a dog park and the Peña Adobe and the GoheenMowers Museum. The two parks,
which cover more than 470 acres, are run by Vacaville and are located halfway between Fairfield and Vacaville on the south side of Interstate 80. The 106-acre lagoon is the home to a considerable population of geese and ducks, as well as a nice backdrop for the many running and bicycling events that take place in the parking lot and use the trails that run through the surrounding hills. Historic Peña Adobe was built in the 1840s by some of Vacaville’s first pioneers and hosts many spring and summertime youth parks programs. Both the adobe and the adjacent Goheen-Mowers Museum were renovated and reopened to the public more than a decade ago. Volunteers now offer demonstrations of early pioneer and American Indian life the first Saturday of every month in conjunction with the Rush Ranch Educational Council.
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Location: Entrance to both Lagoon
Valley Park and Peña Adobe on Peña Adobe Road just off Rivera Road, just west of Vacaville More information: Lagoon Valley Park: www.cityofvacaville.com/ index.aspx?page=375. Peña Adobe/ Goheen-Mowers Museum:
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325 Main Street • Suisun City Monday - Saturday 11am to 8pm • Sundays 9am - 8pm
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707-447-0518, www.penaadobe.org
space built in 1855. Location: 8th Street and
Rio Vista Museum Step back into history when you enter the Rio Vista Museum. Local mementos from years gone by range among a wide array of artifacts – from photos and newspaper headlines to vehicles, farm equipment to clothing, books to kitchen items. Opened in 1975, it is in a converted blacksmith shop. Friendly and knowledgeable docents are available to answer any questions. Location: 16 N. Front St., Rio Vista More information: 707-374-5169,
www.riovistamuseum.com
Mare Island Museum The former Mare Island Naval Shipyard was the first permanent naval installation on the West Coast when founded in 1854. It built more than 500 ships in its 142-year service to the United States before closing in 1996. Today, much of Mare Island’s historical artifacts are carefully being preserved by the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation. It’s housed in Building 46, a 50,000-square-foot
1100 Railroad Ave., Vallejo More information: 707-644-4746 or 707-280-5742; www. mareislandmuseum.org
Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum The Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum is a required stop for fans of local history and the Navy. The museum, which is located in Vallejo’s historic old City Hall, features five galleries devoted to the history and cultures of Vallejo and the U.S. Navy at Mare Island. It also sponsors educational and cultural programs. It is a lot of history to cover, because Vallejo traces its roots to 1844 with the arrival of Gen. Mariano Vallejo, and Mare Island Naval Shipyard traces its own history to 1852, when Congress bought the island. While three of the galleries are devoted to permanent exhibits, the other two offer a constantly changing menu of visiting exhibits pulled from other museums and private collections. One of its more unusual features is the working submarine periscope that can be found at the top of the
Benicia Fire Museum museum’s grand staircase, where visitors can get a sub’s-eye view of surrounding Vallejo. Location: 734 Marin St., Vallejo More information: 707-643-0077, www.vallejomuseum.org
Benicia Fire Museum Lovers of antique fire equipment can see what is believed to be the first fire engine to arrive in California – the
Phoenix Engine – at the Benicia Fire Museum. The engine dates back to the 1820s and is owned by the Benicia Volunteer Firemen. The museum is also home to the Solano Engine, the first engine owned by the volunteer firemen. The Benicia Fire Museum houses many treasures of fire service equipment and hundreds of related items. Admission is free. Donations are accepted. Location: 900 E. Second St., Benicia More information: 707-745-1688,
www.beniciafiremuseum.org
DS
Pam Watson
CRS, GRI, PMN, SRES® Associate Broker, DRE Lic#00748546
Voted as Top 3 REALTOR® in Solano County Trusted Counselor • Skilled Negotiator p Facilitator Expert
Helping Solano Homeowners Since 1979! “Very experienced, honest and sincere in her work.” “Produces outstanding results.” “A professional who has a wealth of knowledge and experience.” “Certainly knows her business… extremely thorough.” “Kept in touch almost every day.” “Always made us feel that we were her only client.” “Professional, fun and easy to work with.” Certified C erti er tifi ti fied Residential fied fie Reessid den nti tiall SSpecialist, peci pe cial alis al istt, is t, G GRI, RII, P PM PMN, M MN N, SSRES RES RE RES
707-290-3235 www.PamWatson.com
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Solano golf courses offer outdoor pandemic respite
Daily Republic Staff
S
olano County and neighboring areas offer golf courses in a variety of types and
settings. Golfers can enjoy a round near the oak-studded hills of Green Valley, the flatlands near Vacaville or the Delta area of Rio Vista. Or they can take a short trip and golf near Napa County vineyards or in Yolo County’s rural Capay Valley. Many of the courses closed in March as a result of state and county orders put in place to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus that causes
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Rancho Solano Golf Course
Covid-19, but were among the first activities in the county to get the go-ahead to reopen with social distancing measure in place.
Nearby courses: Paradise Valley Golf Course: 3950 Paradise Valley Road, Fairfield. 707-426-1600,www.fairfieldgolf.com. Rancho Solano Golf Course:
3250 Rancho Solano Parkway, Fairfield. 707-429-4653,www.fairfieldgolf.com. Cypress Lakes Golf Course: 5601 Meridian Road, Vacaville. 707-448-7186,www.travisfss.com/golf. Blue Rock Springs: 655 Columbus Parkway, Vallejo. 707-643-8476, www.bluerockspringsgolf.com. Hiddenbrooke Golf Course: 1095 Hiddenbrooke Parkway, Vallejo. 707-558-0330,www.hiddenbrooke golf.com. The Golf Club at Rio Vista: 1000 Summerset Drive, Rio Vista. 707-374-2900,www. thegolfclubatriovista.com. Chardonnay Golf Club: 2555 Jameson Canyon Road, Napa. 707-257-1900, www.chardonnaygolfclub.com. Yocha Dehe Golf Club at Cache Creek Casino Resort: 14455 Highway 16, Brooks. 530-796-4653, www.yochadehegolfclub.com. DS
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