Block By Block On First Street: G to H Street

In this installment of our series on First Street, Benicia’s mile-long shopping and dining district, we continue to take the mystery out of what’s located where. Filled with retail stores, bars, restaurants and specialty businesses, First Street (and some side streets) is buzzing with nonstop energy. Half way between the waterfront and City Park, we’ve arrived at the 700 block,  dominated by the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park. The commanding edifice that is the capitol is surrounded by green lawn fronting First Street and a century-old garden between the building and the Fischer-Hanlon House. The capitol is a wonderful repository of history and the jewel of downtown Benicia, but is also one of three places on First Street with public restrooms (the others are at City Park and along the waterfront pier.)

Lisa Duncan Photography Aroma Indian Cuisine

Lisa Duncan Photography Studio 41

Three restaurants, four retail shops and a couple home improvement stores, music lessons and a salon round out the balance of the 700 block. Two popular businesses on this block are Studio 41’s “Gifts 4 Every1” a retail store that delights the senses with a cool vibe and lots of color. The tagline says it all. Chock full of gifts of all kinds that you won’t find just anywhere, Studio 41 should be a stop on anyone’s itinerary. Here you’ll find jewelry, art, kitchen items, books, baby items, accessories and more, plus an entire section devoted just to specialty chocolate. Not your average bike store, Wheels in Motion caters to the young as well as young at heart, selling name-brand bicycles & skateboards, apparel & accessories—a real neighborhood spot. While getting your computer fixed, indulge yourself with some small bites and a specialty cocktail, grab some Thai or Mexican food and take a trip back to the 1850s.