Benicia, California Overview

Benicia is a waterfront city located in Solano County, California, United States. It is situated along the Carquinez Strait, which connects San Pablo Bay and Suisun Bay, and is approximately 30 miles northeast of San Francisco. The city covers an area of 14.8 square miles and has a population of around 28,000 people.

Historically, Benicia was the capital of California for a short period in 1853 before the capital was moved to Sacramento. Today, the city is known for its rich history, Victorian architecture, and picturesque waterfront.

One of the main attractions in Benicia is its charming downtown area, which is home to numerous art galleries, antique stores, boutique shops, and restaurants. The downtown area also features several historic landmarks, including the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, which is home to the restored Benicia Capitol Building, and the Benicia Arsenal, a former military base that has been converted into a park.

Benicia also has several parks and recreational areas, including the 438-acre Benicia State Recreation Area, which offers opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The city also has several public beaches along the Carquinez Strait.

Benicia has a strong arts community and hosts several events throughout the year, including the Benicia Artists Open Studios, the Benicia Waterfront Festival, and the Benicia Plein Air Paintout.

The city has a diverse economy, with a mix of manufacturing, retail, and service businesses. Some of the major employers in Benicia include Valero Energy Corporation, C&H Sugar Company, and Bio-Rad Laboratories.

Overall, Benicia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it an attractive place to live and visit in the San Francisco Bay Area.