This plaza is surrounded by many historical buildings, including the Mission San Francisco Solano, Captain Salvador Vallejo's Casa Grande, the Presidio of Sonoma, the Blue Wing Inn, and the Toscano Hotel.

The plaza is a National Historic Landmark[2] and still serves as the town's focal point, hosting many community festivals and drawing tourists all year round.

"The Plaza", as it is known, is the site of a huge Fourth of July celebration, with thousands of the town's inhabitants attending the festivities.

This location was where the Bear Flag Revolt took place in 1846, which led to the founding of the short lived Republic of California.

The Native Sons of the Golden West raised $500 to prepare the site, put on dedication ceremonies, and to move the huge rock that serves as the pedestal from a mile away.