Graton is a small unincorporated town in Sonoma County with a population of only around 1,700. Located off Highway 116 in the middle of Sonoma County’s wine country, Graton has a distinctly nostalgic charm that’s perfectly complemented by its tranquil rural beauty.
Many visitors come to Graton for its restaurants, considered some of the finest in Sonoma County – and are treated to more than just a culinary experience. The town’s small Main Street features historic buildings that now house delightful shops offering crafts, artworks, and local merchandise you won’t find anywhere else.
Nestled between Forestville and Sebastopool, Graton is surrounded by some of the top wineries and vineyards in Sonoma County, adding to the many charms of this former “rough little apple country town.”
Graton, Sonoma County Real estate
Single-family homes make up the bulk of the housing stock in Graton. Around a third of these are rental properties, making Graton a viable town for investments. Most of the homes in Graton sit on expansive lots measuring at least 1/3 acre.
While the median home price here is higher than California’s, it is lower compared to that of Sonoma County. This makes Graton a great option for anyone looking for an affordable base in the heart of wine country.
A large number of the homes in Graton were built in the 1970s to the 1990s, but there are also plenty of housing units built from the 1930s to the 1960s. Ranch and Craftsman bungalows are popular architectural styles, and many homes come with sprawling porches or patios overlooking expansive yards and gardens.
Education in Graton
Graton is served by several school districts, including:
- Oak Grove Union Elementary School District
- Sebastopol Union Elementary
- Twin Hills Union Elementary
- Forestville Union Elementary
Employment in Graton
Graton’s diverse residents include artists, craft artisans, musicians, farmers, retirees, teachers, and day laborers. The nearby vineyards and wineries, as well as businesses in neighboring towns and cities provide employment to many locals.
Lifestyle in Graton
- Graton is well-known for several restaurants that attract tourists and locals alike:
- Underwood Bar and Bistro – This restaurant exudes a casual sophistication, boasting a large nickel-top bar and serving a variety of European cuisines, with emphasis on French and Mediterranean food.
- Willow Wood Market Café – This casual dining restaurant offers what has been described in the Michelin Guide as “good down-home comfort food.” The restaurant features a “country store area” that sells local wines and preserves, as well as the works of local artists and artisans.
- Mexico Lindo – Featuring Cali-Mex cuisine, this restaurant uses fresh ingredients from nearby farms and has a patio dining option.
- Wine-tasting is a major attraction in Graton. Along Graton Road toward the eastern border of the town are two of Sonoma County’s best wineries – Red Car Wine and Dutton-Goldfield Winery. At the town’s southeastern corner is Emeritus Vineyards, another huge winery surrounded by lush vineyards.
- Graton’s historic Main Street is home to Graton Gallery and an adjoining sculpture garden, showcasing the works of more than 50 local artists. It stages a new art show every six week and features paintings, sculptures, jewelry, textiles, glass, and many more.
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