Along the banks of Sonoma County's Russian River, the hamlet of Monte Rio (pop. 1,152) knows how to roll out the welcome mat with flair. Tourists flocked by train starting in the 1870s, then came by the thousands in the 1930s and ’40s to hear Big Bands play in the town's outdoor pavilions. Today, a historic 1950s-style neon sign arches overhead, proclaiming "Welcome to Monte Rio Vacation Wonderland."
That slogan still rings true for those who want to enjoy splashing or paddling on the river, taking in fabulous views, visiting nearby world-class wineries, enjoying local theater, biking along winding roads lined with redwoods, fishing, hiking, or having picnics on a sandy river beach.
Located on the north end of the 10-mile scenic stretch known as the Bohemian Highway, this little burg spreads out on both sides of the river. It's home to the Monte Rio Amphitheater, an outdoor showcase for concerts, theater under the stars, and other events.
The area offers a variety of restaurants, while lodging options vary from quaint cottages on the river to luxury bed and breakfast inns, and historic small hotels.
Boho Manor, built in 1906 as a private home, served as the site of several scenes in the Hollywood film Holiday Inn, starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire. The Highland Dell Hotel, also built in 1906, hosts the local OktoberFest.
Trip Ideas
Tucked away on the north end of the 10-mile Bohemian Highway, Monte Rio visitors are immediately greeted by a 1950s-style neon sign that marks this small town as a “vacation wonderland.” While...
For more than 130 years, travelers have come to the Russian River area in Sonoma County to swim, paddle, hike, wine, dine, or simply relax and enjoy all the delights of this lovely waterway. As the...
Dip your toes both literally and figuratively in Wine Country on this one-day adventure from San Francisco to the Russian River Valley, with its towering redwoods, cool river water, and laid-back...
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Curtain Call Theatre is the premiere theater of the Russian River area. Season tickets are available for their outstanding plays performed by an all-volunteer cast at the Russian River Hall in Monte…
Recently ranked by Golf World Magazine as the #3 Nine-hole course in America!Built in 1928 by famed golf architect Alister MacKenzie, noted for his work at Augusta National and Cypress Point, and in…
Creekside Park is an unusual mixture of activity and quietude, fun and art, farming and transportation, conservation and natural beauty all packed into a small and beautiful designed Public Park.…
River View Garden Resort is comprised of nine quaint rooms nestled among majestic redwoods at the edge of the Russian River. Located in the small town of Monte Rio, the resort is a one and one-half…
Bia is a local coffee shop featuring organic coffee, espresso and tea, traditional Irish breads and other delicious baked goods made fresh in-house every morning. The cafe also serves delicious…
Boho Manor is a Gatsby-themed hotel resort with multiple amenities like kayaks, paddle boards, bicycles, spa, a full restaurant and speakeasy. Come join for a cocktail with one of our specialty…
Boho Manor is an Gatsby-themed hotel resort with multiple amenities, sports, spa, restaurant and bar
Welcome to The Grove, a world of privacy, with redwood-covered ridgetops above and redwood forests below. Perched on a hill above the Russian River, The Grove is an amenity-loaded haven for your…
For more than 100 years, Monte Rio and the Russian River area have welcomed vacationers of all ages and lifestyles. Today we welcome you to our community, California’s original “Vacation Wonderland.”
Monte Rio Beach is the largest public beach on the lower Russian River and is ADA accessible. East of the Monte Rio Bridge and known locally as Big Rocky Beach, this is the location of the…