The National Trust for Historic Preservation today named Sonoma as one of its Dozen Distinctive Destinations of 2011.
Nominated by the Blue Wing Adobe Preservation Committee, the town was selected for its unique role in American history, a superior green ethic and its vibrant small-town ambiance.
“This is fabulous news,” said Patricia Cullinan, chair of committee. “It creates an awareness of the value of historic tourism.”
Cullinan will make a formal presentation of the honor to the Sonoma City Council on Feb. 23.
The other cities on the 2011 list are: Alexandria, Va.; Chapel Hill, N.C.; Colorado Springs, Colo.; Dandridge, Tenn.; Eureka, Calif.; Muskogee, Okla.; New Bedford, Mass.; Paducah, Ky.; San Angelo, Texas; Sheridan, Wyo., and St. Paul, Minn.
The public is invited to vote online to help determine which of the 12 destinations will be the 2011 Fan Favorite.
The winner will be announced March 16.
The Dozen Distinctive Destinations program has for 12 years identified communities around the country that offer culture, recreation and an authentic sense of place beyond the typical vacation experience.
“This year’s list includes some of America’s best places to visit,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “They combine historic appeal and modern culture in a way that keeps visitors coming back.”
The website generated 1.5 million hits last year, Cullinan said. “It’s very effective in promoting tourism.”
The Sonoma application, crafted by Cullinan and committee member Pam Gibson, included video vignettes from TV traveler Doug McConnell.
The images captured the town’s “laid back charm and small town atmosphere, Meeks said. “Visitors will discover that world-class wine is not the only draw to Sonoma, which also offers a fascinating mix of historic and cultural experiences spanning several centuries.”
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