The Farm Downtown

In awe of Imwalle? Well, if you haven’t been to Imwalle Gardens yet, you will be. That’s because Imwalle Gardens is a freaking farm hiding right in the middle of the city!

This has to be one of the coolest old farms in Sonoma County. It’s a nursery, farm stand, market and heavenly munchie merchant all in one. A living, and growing, piece of Santa Rosa history, the original business has been owned and run by the same family since 1886.

Located on busy 3^rd street, the farm seems magically out of place, as the world has virtually modernized and grown around it. Here in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Santa Rosa you might think you’ve wondered into a whole different part of town. Or maybe back in time to SR circa 19^th Century.

As you make your way down the driveway, the view opens up to giant lush fields, endless garden beds and, of course, the big old barn at the end of the road. The people in the shop could not be any nicer and more chill. Seriously peeps, the customer service and vibe of this place is super-duper old timey and warm. Fido is absolutely welcome at Imwalle Gardens, so long as he keeps you on your leash and you are well behaved. There’s plenty of fresh produce and even more plants to start your own garden (which you should definitely be doing).

Both organic and conventional, there is an endless variety of plants and produce. Looking for advice on what to buy or what place to hit next? No prob! As this is a popular local hang, there’s plenty of friendly advice and good conversation going on around there, too.

In addition to fresh produce, they make a variety of delicious products, including their popular line of salad dressings. Vidalia Onion Creamy Cucumber Dressing, anyone? Um, yes please! If cycling is your thang, Imwalle Gardens would be the perfect stop. Never mind the line, it’s ultra-popular, so there’s almost always a queue, but it moves.

A wander around the garden and a picnic? This is the right spot to make it happen. Check out Imwalle Gardens if you want to get a taste of living like a local Santa Rosan and Sonoma County aficionado. Grab your squad and hit it before places like this disappear.

This is guest blogger Robyn Grace Jennings’ second OutThereSR post. Robyn is a freelance writer, enthusiastic gardener and cook and crazy chicken lady.  She can be reached at rng@rocketmail.com.