California is home to some of the most creative and innovative spots! The people here love to preserve history, honor it and continue to build the legacy. That’s certainly the case at The Barlow.  Located off State Highway 12, on your way to Bodega Bay and the coast, The Barlow is about 10 minutes from Downtown Santa Rosa in Sebastapol, a Sonoma County gem with  7400 in population.

The Barlow was the former site of an apple and berry farm and applesauce canning facility. Now. it’s a beautiful shopping and dining stop that spans 12 and a half acres. To pay homage to the sites farming roots, many of the business believe in sustainable business practices that impact the environment.

After passing by The Barlow en route elsewhere, it was quickly added to the itinerary. I had been hearing about the center but hadn’t made any immediate plans to visit so you can imagine how delighted I was as I drove by! Yes, a quick visit was in order and you know I had to take a few pics…

Taylor Lane Organic Coffee

Let’s talk coffee! Taylor Lane Organic Coffee not only has handcrafted espresso-based beverages, but they also offer small bites.

With four locations, the store-front in The Barlow is their flagship store and with a commitment to make delicious organic coffee, I was one happy customer! It’s hard to argue when that need for caffeine hits!

With their comfortable indoor/outdoor seating it was the perfect (and delicious) spot to refuel my caffeine tank.

Elsie Green

Whoever thought you could find vintage French home decor on the way to Bodega Bay? Elsie Green specializes in furniture, textiles, and other items for the home. Giving once-loved items, discarded and no longer wanted, new life and new homes.

Wandering through this store, it was hard not to have dreams of Parisian summers

Forget being an American in Paris, how about an American in a Vintage French home decor store in Sebastopol?!

Isn’t French considered one of the most romantic languages? These old postcards are kind of giving me feels.

California Sister

What’s unique about California Sister is how their floral arrangements are like art. The unique designs are inspired by the seasons make for rich and robust visuals. The shop not only has florals and plants but also gifts and handmade items from local artists. All the flowers used are locally grown. The shop offers floral & plant-based gifts, supplies, handmade items from local artists, and of course- local flowers. I ended up picking up some local dried lavender to put in a vase in my home. It smells so good!

Isn’t this wall gorgeous?

More about The Barlow

The Barlow offers so much that it really is a great way to spend a day with your friends. There’s something for everyone. Every business is beautifully designed and offers quality products. So many of the businesses create their products with you in mind. Here are a few other amenities:

Community Market

You can find Community Market filled with organic produce as well as prepared meals inside. The bounty was plenty! It’s volunteer-run and really connects to the community.

Wineries 

The Barlow also offers wine tasting with labels Pax and MacPhail. The tasting rooms and bars stay open later than expected so I’m looking forward to returning for a chill night out.

Art Galleries

Two art galleries call The Barstow Home, Gallery 300 and Lori Austin Gallery. Though different in their focus, both of these galleries add a unique flare to this small part of Sebastopol. The Barlow offers so much that it really is a great way to spend a day with your friends. There’s something for everyone. Every business is beautifully designed and offers quality product. So many of the businesses create their products with you in mind.

I can’t wait to hear what you think about The Barlow! If you go to any of the places I mentioned, please tell them you heard about me on thekachetlife.com 🙂 Cheers!

 

The Barlow

6770 McKinley Street

Sebastapol, CA 95472

Be sure to check out their website and Instagram account!