2026 Sonoma County Visitor Guide

Capo Creek Winery

Tucked into the foothills of Dry Creek Valley, Capo Creek Winery’s tasting room opens onto sweeping views of wildflowers, estate vineyards, and the slopes of Geyser Peak. Featured wines include red and white Rhône varietals, old vine Zinfandels, Tempranillo blends, and barrel-fermented Cabernet Franc. Chef-winemaker Mary Roy’s wines have earned a devoted following for their expressive aromas, silky mouthfeel, and food-loving balance.

Tastings unfold at private tables in the lush kitchen garden and boast an authentic approach that makes you feel at home. The flagship Mary’s Table includes a sixcourse pairing followed by a tour of the winery. During the tasting, Mary cooks, pours, and shares her unlikely path from retired doctor and mother of six to culinary storyteller and winemaker, blending wine education with anecdotes from her journey.

Weddings, corporate dinners, tastings, tours, private cooking classes, and the annual hands-on Harvest Party echo Capo Creek’s theme of warmth, imagination, and a genuine sense of place.

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FdÉ @ C apo C reekran C h

DEPARTMENTS

RITUAL OF REST

From gardens to spas, Sonoma County was made for relaxation.

Experience hiking, family time, and only-here activities.

STYLE, WELL MADE Get the Sonoma Wine Country look while supporting local shops and boutiques.

IS WINE COUNTRY

beer, and cider: Discover a different kind of Wine Country.

every meal tells a story—of the land, the people, and the seasons.

WITH

Meet area makers and create something of your own.

Taste hard ciders and learn about the area’s heritage apple. P. 97

whale watching, experience harvest season, and more.

OF

Don’t miss the area’s annual events.

Dawn Ranch

Set among lush redwood forests along the Russian River, Dawn Ranch’s thoughtfully curated accommodations promise comfort and a connection to nature. Dog-friendly cabins and private chalets offer peaceful, creative retreats perfect for outdoor adventure or a romantic getaway. For gatherings with family and friends, The Bungalows and The Grove offer space and seclusion with all the comforts of home. The Spa invites grounding and wellness with healing therapies, body treatments, and curative bathing rituals. Dining is a pleasure at The Lodge, where a standout menu reflects the local bounty and hospitality is refreshingly sincere. Luxe yet inspired by the natural surroundings, Dawn Ranch is your inspiring Wine Country getaway.

D awn R anch.com • d @ D awn R anch

GUERNEVILLE

2026

JAY R. BROOKS

Jay R. Brooks has been writing about beer for more than 30 years and lives in Cotati. He cofounded SF Beer Week, taught a beer course at Sonoma State University, and was knighted by the Belgian Brewers Guild in 2014.

ALEJANDRA SARAGOZA

Alejandra Saragoza is a writer and editor covering the fun stuff: food, drink, and travel. Her work has appeared in SFGate, Diablo, HuffPost, Fast Company, and more. Off deadline, she’s often reading, kayaking, or enjoying a cocktail.

PUBLISHED BY

Contributors

MARIA C. HUNT

Maria C. Hunt is a Californiabased journalist, brand storyteller, and author specializing in stories around food, wine, travel, and women’s health. Her work has appeared in Esquire, The Wall Street Journal, Wine Enthusiast, and more.

CAREY SWEET

With nearly three decades of national award-winning writing about food, wine, restaurants, travel, animals, and sustainability, Carey Sweet lives on a Sonoma County farm where every day she celebrates these topics. careysweet.com

JILL K. ROBINSON

Jill K. Robinson writes about travel and adventure for National Geographic, AFAR, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Sierra, and a wide variety of print and digital publications. See more of her work at dangerjillrobinson.com

MATT VILLANO

Matt Villano is a freelance writer and editor who has lived in northern Sonoma County for nearly 20 years. He has covered the region for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and CNN His favorite spot in the area: Wright’s Beach.

The Team

LEADERSHIP

PRESIDENT & CEO

CLAUDIA VECCHIO

VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE & OPERATIONS

LORI ANGSTADT

VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING & BRAND

FRANK FILICE

VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

JONNY WESTOM

VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

KELLY BASS SEIBEL

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

TORIE CLANCY

MARKETING & BRAND

DESIGN MARKETING MANAGER

ROBERT MCGUIGAN

3558 Round Barn Blvd., Ste. 106 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 sonomacounty.com info@sonomacounty.com 800-576-6662

PUBLISHERS

Martha-Page Althaus & Nicole Bordges marthapage@wanderlustcontentstudio.com / nicole@wanderlustcontentstudio.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Lauren Bonney

DESIGN DIRECTOR Deanne O’Connor

CUSTOM CONTENT EDITOR Callie Fromson

ART DIRECTORS Christy Brokens, Laura Ellefson

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tracie Eubanks, Jack Sickenberger

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Mary-Clifton Everette

IMAGE RESEARCHER/

PRODUCTION ARTIST Jennifer Brazil

COPY EDITOR Karen Sommerfeld

All photographs are property of Sonoma County Tourism and/or the credited photographers and may not be reproduced without permission. Sonoma County Tourism and Wanderlust Content Studio have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information presented in the guide, but assume no responsibility for errors, changes, or omissions. Some content in this magazine is developed in collaboration with advertising and promotional partners. These partnerships help support the production and distribution of this publication. Sponsored content may appear in an editorial style and may not always be labeled as advertising.

In Sonoma County, life unfolds at a pace that feels both grounded and inviting. This is a region defined not only by its beauty, but by the people who care for it. Growers rise before dawn. Chefs shape menus around what the season provides. Artists draw inspiration from open skies and open minds. Guests are welcomed not as spectators, but as participants in something genuine and deeply rooted.

Come experience Sonoma County for yourself. Plan your experience at SonomaCounty.com.

Sonoma Zipline Adventures

Discover the magic and beauty of Sonoma County’s coast redwoods. Sonoma Zipline Adventures offers one-of-a-kind tours and treehouse stays that immerse you in the heart of the redwood forest.

The exhilarating Forest Flight Tour features ziplines reaching speeds up to 30 miles per hour and an exciting rappel descent. The Tree Tops Tour has the same exciting ziplines—the longest is 1,500 feet—and is higher and faster, making it perfect for thrill-seekers. The Zip the Day Away adventure boasts a full day of ziplining and a gourmet lunch in the elevated Treehouse Village. For an unforgettable escape, book an overnight stay in Sonoma Zipline Adventures’ luxury treehouse. Your getaway includes a guided nature hike, zipline tour, farm-to-table dining, and cozy accommodations in a luxury treehouse reachable by skybridges and a spiral staircase. Whether you’re soaring through tree canopies or relaxing in a treehouse retreat, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Sonoma County’s majestic, ancient redwoods.

Pure Luxury TransporTaTion

For more than 35 years, Pure Luxury Transportation has provided reliable and trusted ground transportation throughout Sonoma County for leisure travelers and corporate clients. From seamless airport transfers to hourly charters for off-site meetings, special events, and group outings, Pure Luxury’s professional team makes getting around Wine Country effortless. Let Pure Luxury handle the driving with private transportation tailored to your needs so you can relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy Sonoma County at your own pace.

SONOMA COUNTY

Life Opens Up

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS IN SONOMA COUNTY, ONE OF CALIFORNIA,S MOST DIVERSE AND SURPRISING DESTINATIONS.

SONOMA COUNTY is unlike any other wine region in the world, celebrated for wine and culinary excellence. Here, visitors can savor an array of award-winning varieties. Farm-to-fork cuisine defines Northern California’s vibrant food scene with restaurants, patisseries, cheese shops, and farmers markets offering visitors a chance to savor the land’s bounty. Visitors also gain enlightening insights through conversations and connections with winemakers, chefs, and farmers, allowing for truly immersive experiences.

Beyond wine tasting and vineyards, the area offers an abundance of outdoor experiences: hike scenic trails, cycle through rolling hills, or wander beneath towering redwoods in ancient forests. From the Mayacamas Mountains to the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline, this destination offers travelers a

chance to relax, breathe, and soak in the stunning landscapes.

Sonoma County is also a hub for creativity. You’ll find one-of-a-kind boutiques and galleries showcasing the work of local makers, crafters, and artisans—perfect for those seeking authentic treasures.

Whether you’re here to indulge, explore, or simply unwind, Sonoma County promises unforgettable moments at every turn. Welcome to a place where nature, flavor, and artistry come together in perfect harmony.

Warm regards,

The Sonoma County Tourism Team

STOP bY

Gather your questions, pack your curiosity, and step into a Sonoma County visitor center.

Pop into any Sonoma County visitor center for personalized tips, local maps, and regional insights. Note: Many local visitor centers are volunteer-run and operate on limited hours— check before visiting.

bODEgA bAy SONOMA COAST VISITOR CENTER visitbodegabayca.com

VISITOR APPROVEd LAKE SONOMA

Nestled in the foothills of Sonoma County, this lake is great for hiking, boating, camping, and more.

REFIL l & REUSE

Purchase a reusable Sonoma County water bottle during your stay! Head to a local visitor center, collect a unique sticker from each location, and showcase your adventure with a water bottle passport.

FOLLOW ALONG

Discover trip inspiration, local stories, and the newest Sonoma County experiences. Head to social media or SonomaCounty.com, and make sure to tag Sonoma County Tourism on your favorite channel!

ClOVERDALE

CLOVERDALE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR CENTER cloverdalechamber.com

JENNER FORT ROSS CONSERVANCY & VISITOR CENTER fortross.org

JENNER VISITORS CENTER stewardscr.org

PETALUMA PETALUMA VISITORS CENTER visitpetaluma.com

gEySERVILlE

GEYSERVILLE VISITOR CENTER gogeyserville.com

LAKE SONOMA VISITORS CENTER & FISH HATCHERY lakesonoma.org

gUERNEVILlE ARMSTRONG WOODS VISITORS CENTER stewardscr.org

RUSSIAN RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR CENTER russianriver.com

HEAlDSbURG

HEALDSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITORS BUREAU healdsburg.com

SANTA ROSA CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER visitsantarosa.com

SEbASTOPOl SEBASTOPOL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR CENTER sebastopol.org

SONOMA

SONOMA VALLEY VISITORS BUREAU

SONOMA VALLEY VISITORS BUREAU AT JACUZZI FAMILY VINEYARDS sonomavalley.com

WINdSOR WINDSOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND VISITORS CENTER windsorchamber.com

Lake Sonoma

ACCESSIBIlITy

Wine Country for All

Here, Wine Country is all about joy, discovery, and belonging.

SCAN to access Wheel the World Accessibility

Verified Partners with accurate information for hotels, activities, and restaurants in Sonoma County.

SONOMA COUNTY has always been shaped by the people who call it home—immigrant families who built the agricultural foundation; LGBTQ+ communities who found refuge and belonging among the redwoods; and generations of craftsmen, farmers, and winemakers who infuse the region with creativity and care.

That spirit continues today in a destination defined not by exclusivity, but by connection.

As the nation’s first Destination Stewardship Organization, Sonoma County Tourism invites visitors to make their travel experience more inclusive and meaningful. Its collaboration with Wheel the World supports visitors with detailed accessibility information for wineries, hotels, restaurants, trails, and experiences, so

travelers of all abilities can explore with confidence.

The county’s partnership with Kind Traveler makes it easy for visitors to support local causes, either by choosing hotels that give back, or by participating in stewardship activities.

It’s all part of a broader mission, ensuring Wine Country is a place where every visitor feels welcomed, supported, and free to explore at their own pace.

Exploring WITH CONFIDENCE

For blind couple and Santa Rosa residents Alex Hernandez and Marissa Garcia-Hernandez, accessibility is what transforms Sonoma County from a nice place into somewhere that feels like home.

“When the SMART train opened, it changed everything,” Alex says, noting its reliability and easy access. Beyond the train, walkable downtowns (especially Santa Rosa), the well-connected Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport, apps and technology, and audible cues at sidewalks make independent travel easy for the pair. But what stands out most is the community itself.

“Nine times out of 10, someone helps if we need it,” Alex says. And as regulars, “We feel the love every time we show up and are recognized,” adds Marissa. “Every time we go to our favorite place, they already know our food and drink order. Those kinds of things make us feel welcome and seen.”

Follow their Sonoma County adventures at É @livingitupblindtogether.

“Every time we go to our favorite place, they already know our food and drink order. Those kinds of things make us feel welcome and seen.”

—Marissa Garcia-Hernandez

Above: Sonoma Coast State Park has accessible trails, campgrounds, parking, restrooms, and picnic tables. Left: Gary Farrell Winery has a stepfree entrance, obstacle-free inside area, and smooth flooring.

GLEN ELLEN

Benziger Family Winery

Benziger Family Winery is one of Sonoma County’s most stunning sustainably farmed estates. For more than 40 years, the Benziger family has pioneered biodynamic farming, cultivating a vibrant, self-sustaining ecosystem on the slopes of Sonoma Mountain. Experience this extraordinary property during the winery’s popular Biodynamic Tractor Tram Tour, where you’ll wind through terraced vineyards while learning how the estate’s biodynamic practices shape every wine. The tour concludes with a tasting of four unique limitedproduction wines (reservations are recommended). B enziger.com • Fd @ B enziger W inery

Sonoma County is where rugged coastline, redwood forests, and fertile valleys exist side by side.

Sonoma County Is

OPEN COUNTRy

No matter where you are in Sonoma County, your viewpoint will be unique. More than a million acres sweep across the area, from wave-lashed bluffs and vineyard-dotted hills to quiet redwood forests and quintessential Wine Country towns lined with bespoke boutiques and tasting rooms.

Breathe

Jenner’s Timber Cove Resort offers dramatic coastal views and wellmaintained walking paths, so you can easily soak in those negative ions.

The Coast

No matter how you get to Sonoma County’s Pacific coastline, the journey is just the start of your adventure.

The Sonoma County Coast is one of those landscapes that stays with you long after you’ve left it—a meeting point of rugged geology, wild Pacific weather, and small, quietly charismatic seaside communities. Sonoma Coast State Park includes more than 10 miles of beaches, reefs, tide pools, headlands, and natural arches stretching from Bodega Head to the Russian River. At the southern end, Bodega Bay is a working fishing village and home to restaurants that serve straight-off-the-boat seafood. The town of Bodega is known as the filming location for Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds

As you zigzag north along Highway 1, the road hugs the edge of the continent past Jenner, where the Russian River meets the Pacific, then climbs toward Fort Ross, Timber Cove, Stewarts Point, Annapolis, The Sea Ranch, and Gualala. Here, the coast feels raw and elemental—sea cliffs, cypress trees leaning into the wind, and wildflower-dotted headlands share space with grazing cattle, sea birds, and deer. Private homes, small inns, and one-of-a-kind lodges are tucked into the bluffs and grasslands. This is where you exhale, walk a cliffside trail, and let the roar of the waves drown out anything that followed you from home.

Sonoma County Coast

Turn inland from the coast and the landscape narrows into the green corridor of the Russian River. Towns like Duncans Mills, Occidental, Monte Rio, Guerneville, Rio Nido, and Forestville string along the water like beads, each one a little different but all shaded by redwoods and steeped in river lore.

Duncans Mills is an outlying hamlet where life tends to revolve around the river season. Head toward Occidental, and the forest thickens around this compact, artsy town, while nearby Cazadero feels like the end of the road in the best way: creekside, quiet, and starry at night.

Monte Rio feels unhurried, more river bar and bridge views than bustle, while Guerneville hums with a playful, queer-friendly energy that’s been part of its identity for decades—resort cabins, river beaches, and a welcoming, come-as-you-are main street. Tucked into the trees, Rio Nido is part summer-camp nostalgia, part year-round community. Or, explore Forestville’s waterway by canoe, kayak, and more from Burke’s Canoe Trips.

The Redwoods & River

Along the Russian River, redwood-shaded towns unfold slowly. This is where river days, creative spirit, and laid-back community define life.

QUIET gIANTS In Guerneville, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is home to coast redwoods, the tallest living things on the planet.

The Wine Country Core

A blend of tasting rooms, town greens, and historic plazas, Sonoma County’s most recognizable towns offer a balance of food, wine, and culture.

If the river is Sonoma County’s quiet heartbeat, the towns of Windsor, Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, Petaluma, and Sonoma are its gathering places. These are the names you tend to see on wine labels and restaurant lists, but on the ground they still feel distinctly local.

Windsor has a family-friendly town green and a growing mix of breweries and eateries, all framed by vineyards and bike paths. In Santa Rosa, the largest city in the area, you’ll find an urban beat pulsing through historic neighborhoods, craft breweries, street art, museums, and easy access to both redwoods and

PADdLE & FlOAT Rent stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and more to cruise the Petaluma River and Turning Basin in downtown Petaluma.

Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens, Santa Rosa

Homegrown

wineries. Further north, Healdsburg blends small-town plaza life with a polished wine and food scene; tasting rooms and boutiques share sidewalks with bakeries, bookstores, and neighborhood parks.

To the south, Petaluma leans into its riverfront warehouses, Victorian architecture, and farm-totable personality, and its walkable downtown is full of antique shops and locally owned boutiques. To the east, the city of Sonoma is filled with a rich historic plaza, adobe-era landmarks, and a cluster of tasting rooms and eateries that still manage to feel neighborly.

Jordan Vineyard & Winery, Healdsburg

HEAd INTO TOWN Downtown Windsor is home to unique shops, restaurants, and a vibrant town green.

Known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Sonoma’s Three Sticks Wines owns, grows, and produces everything from its estate vineyards.

Taste the Terroir

The Valley Collective

This inland corridor pairs vineyard landscapes with small towns known for thoughtful food, tasting rooms, and easy access to nature.

Beyond the city of Sonoma, Highway 12 winds north through Boyes Hot Springs, Glen Ellen, and Kenwood. Collectively, these communities feel like the valley’s quieter, leafier side—places where vineyards climb the hillsides and creeks glide past oak trees—coupled with some excitingly delectable culinary prowess.

Boyes Hot Springs hints at the area’s long history as a mineral springs retreat, with a mix of modest homes, storefronts, and tucked-away inns. Glen Ellen has a storybook quality—narrow roads, roadside markets, tasting rooms, and trailheads leading up into regional parks. Kenwood opens out into wide valley views and vineyard-lined drives toward the Mayacamas Mountains.

Sonoma Valley Regional Park, Glen Ellen

Sonoma Valley Park, Glen Ellen

Founded in 1904, Kunde Family Winery in Kenwoood offers visitors daily tours and tastings of its estategrown, sustainably farmed wines.

The Countryside & Beyond

These smaller towns reveal Sonoma County at its most authentic—creative, practical, and shaped by agriculture, education, and local connection.

Between the hubs, Sonoma County’s backroads connect a constellation of smaller towns and crossroads that give the area its everyday texture. Sebastopol, once known primarily for apples, now layers in artists’ studios, tasting rooms, and a laid-back, bohemian main drag. To the north, Cloverdale sits near the meeting point of Highway 101 and the Russian River, a gateway to both vineyard country and rugged northern hills.

Just south, Geyserville blends Old West main street charm with wine estates and countryside views.

Closer to the coast, Freestone and Graton feel like tiny, personality-filled waypoints where farm stands, bakeries, and tasting rooms share space with historic buildings and country lanes.

South of Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park and Cotati are classic college towns, filled with family-friendly activities, greenbelts, music venues, down-to-earth breweries, and easy access to both Highway 101 and the SMART train. Penngrove stretches along a country road due south, with feed stores, cafes, and views of low, rolling hills.

FULl OF TASTE

Gather around the table at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville and toast to your Sonoma County visit.

Find Your Town

Explore the character of Sonoma County’s many cities and towns, and find the one that fits your style, pace, and plans. Discover them all at SonomaCounty.com/cities.

Russian RiveR ChambeR of CommerCe

Explore Sonoma County’s vacation paradise. Russian River is a unique intersection of creative food and wine, breathtaking ecology, and laid-back river culture. Stay at some of California’s most beautiful boutique hotels, hike through foggy ancient redwoods, float along the Russian River, discover hidden-gem wineries, shop famous art galleries, and do so much more.

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F @ R ussianriver visito R s C enter

d @expe R ien C e R ussian R ive R

LOWER RUSSIAN RIVER

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

COURTESY

SANTA ROSA

Santa RoSa

Santa Rosa is Sonoma County’s vibrant heart. Here, Wine Country meets beer city, farm-to-table cuisine complements unforgettable outdoor adventure, and a lively arts and entertainment scene brings it to life, and it’s all just 55 miles north of San Francisco. Wander historic Railroad Square and downtown’s boutiques and galleries, sip at award-winning vineyards and breweries, hike redwood and oak-lined trails, or enjoy family-friendly fun at parks, museums, and iconic attractions. With year-round events, inclusive communities, and something for every kind of explorer, Santa Rosa invites you to discover, unwind, and say cheers to being here.

S itsanta R o Sa.com

itsanta R o Saca

Visit Petaluma

Petaluma’s rich history never gets in the way of its fun. In its walkable downtown, Victorian-era buildings filled with restaurants, tasting rooms, shops, cafes, and music venues hum with “Chick City” vibes.

The city’s farm-to-table cuisine, sourced from its rich farmland, continues to gain national attention. In Petaluma, tasting experiences abound. Visitors flock to its wine bars, scenic wineries, and quirky taprooms, distilleries, and breweries.

Enjoyed from riverside eateries, wetland trails, or a stand-up paddleboard, the Petaluma River connects the city’s river-port past to its creative present.

V isitpetaluma.com • F @ P etalumaca • d @ V isitpetaluma

Enjoyed from riverside eateries, wetland trails, or a stand-up paddleboard, the Petaluma River connects the city’s river-port past to its creative present. V F P d V isitpetaluma

Visit Petaluma

Petaluma offers a wide range of places to stay, from full-service hotels in and around historic downtown to family-friendly inns and outdoor options perfect for exploring Sonoma County. Whether you want walkable access to shops, tasting rooms, and eateries, or convenient freeway-adjacent lodging for hitting the region’s wineries and coastline, there’s a home base to match your trip. V isitpetaluma.com/hotels

Sheraton Sonoma

Wine Country Petaluma

Best Western Petaluma Inn

Guests can expect dependable amenities and an on-site bistro in a convenient location. BestWestern.com

courtyard By marrIott

Petaluma sonoma county

Modern accommodations are paired with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and a bistro. marrIott.com/sfocP

hampton Inn Petaluma

Located in a converted historic mill, this hotel blends modern comforts with walkable access to downtown and the SMART train. hamptonpetaluma.hamptonbyhIlton.com

hotel Petaluma

This historic hotel in downtown places guests steps from shops, dining, and tasting rooms. hotelpetaluma.com

home2 suItes

By hilton Petaluma

Home2 Suites offers spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool. hilton.com/en/hotels/ oakptht-home2-suItes-Petaluma

metro hotel & cafe

This boutique-style stay features thoughtfully designed rooms and a welcoming on-site cafe. metrolodging.com

QualIty Inn

Petaluma-sonoma

A budget-friendly option, Quality Inn includes complimentary breakfast and easy access to Sonoma County attractions. WinecountryqI.com

san francisco

north / Petaluma koa resort

Cabins, RV sites, and campsites make the 2026 KOA campground of the year a natural choice for outdoor-oriented travelers. Petalumakoa.com

sheraton sonoma

Wine country Petaluma

Sheraton Sonoma Wine Country Petaluma is a full-service waterfront hotel with spacious rooms and event facilities. sheratonsonoma.com

suPer 8 By Wyndham Petaluma

Economical rooms, a seasonal pool, and proximity to dining and shopping define this easygoing option.

Wyndhamhotels.com

Hotel Petaluma

San Francisco North/ Petaluma KOA Resort

Hampton Inn Petaluma

Metro Hotel & Cafe

HEALDSBURG

Only in Healdsburg

Healdsburg is a place where authenticity thrives and where the heart of Sonoma County is felt in every small business, family-owned winery, and warm welcome. Surrounded by the vineyards of the Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley, and Russian River Valley AVAs, the town blends elevated Wine Country experiences with a genuine spirit rooted in community. Here, luxury feels personal and thoughtful, and every tasting room, boutique, and cafe reflects the passion of the people who built them.

The downtown plaza is the center of this connection. Visitors can meet winemakers who have farmed the same land for generations, shop at independent stores filled with locally crafted goods, or enjoy a meal that celebrates the foragers, farmers, and food producers who define Healdsburg’s culinary identity. The town’s restaurants, markets, and tasting lounges work closely with local growers to create unforgettable dining experiences that honor the area’s agricultural heritage.

Beyond the plaza, rolling vineyards, scenic trails, and the Russian River offer opportunities to unwind and reconnect with nature. Wellness studios, art spaces, and neighborhood events further enrich the sense of place.

Healdsburg offers luxury with a heart, a community that welcomes visitors as neighbors, and a setting that invites deeper connection with the people and stories behind every experience.

Downtown SebaStopol

Downtown Sebastopol is a charming, walkable center of West County life, where creativity and community meet. Located between Sonoma County Wine Country and the Pacific Coast, it’s an easy and rewarding stop for travelers and locals alike. Tree-lined streets lead past independent shops, boutiques, cafes, and artful spaces that reflect the town’s thoughtful, imaginative spirit. It’s family-friendly, relaxed, and full of small discoveries—perfect for browsing, lingering, and reconnecting. Whether you’re passing through or spending the day, downtown Sebastopol offers a warm welcome and a genuine sense of place that feels both grounded and quietly inspiring.

D owntown S ebaS topol.com d @ D owntown S ebaS topol

1. arcana threadS

Arcana Threads offers curated vintage and modern pieces, blending art, style, and nostalgia into unique clothing and apparel for those who love one-of-a-kind finds. arcanathreadS.com Fd @arcana.threadS

2. luncH box

Indulge in house-ground burgers, gourmet sandwiches, hoagies, salads, and local beer! Featured in San Francisco Chronicle’s “Top Burgers in the Bay Area.” burgerplz.com

F @luncHboxSonomacounty d @__luncH__box__

3. Silk moon Discover sustainable brands, curated fashion, perfect travel pieces, and Sonoma County’s top shoe selection in the heart of Sebastopol. Silkmoonca.com F @SilkmoonGallery d @SilkmoonSebaStopol

4. Gather Gather is a haven for the practical arts. Shop beautiful tools and home goods, or join hands-on workshops in fiber arts, fermentation and preservation, cooking, gardening, and more. GatherSebaStopol.com d @Gather_SebaStopol

5. copperfielD’S bookS

For 45 years, Copperfield’s Books has been creating cozy, vibrant surroundings where readers of all ages can find themselves reflected in the shop’s curated selection of books. copperfielDsbookS.com Fd @copperfielDsbookS

6. SebaStopol cookie company This beloved cafe and bakery is known for signature cookies, specialty beverages, seasonal sweet and savory baked goods, and soup and sandos (gluten-free and vegan options available). SebaStopolcookiecompany.com d @SebaStopolcookiecompany

7. milk & Honey The spiritual hub of Sebastopol for 30 years, Milk & Honey features works by local artists, handcrafted items, crystals, books, and more. milk-anD-Honey.com F @milkanDhoneySebaStopol

8. blisS orGanic Day Spa

Visit this serene oasis for custom spa experiences, massage, and relaxing body treatments. For a self-care retreat, get a day pass to the Bliss Bath House. blisSorganicDayspa.com Fd @blisSorganicDayspa

9. retrograDe coffee roasters Come for freshly roasted specialty coffee, teas, breakfast, lunch, and pastries. Retrograde Coffee Roasters is Certified green, community-focused, and committed to craft in every detail. retrograDeroasters.com F @retrograDeroast d @retrograDeroasters

10. main Street mercantile

Style meets authentic craftsmanship. Shop for premium hats by Kangol, Bailey, Pantropic, and Betmar, handcrafted jewelry by artisan silversmith Michael Paz, and unique collectibles. F @mainstreetmercantile236

STAY IN STylE TIME TO CHECK IN

RETREATS Restful

Discover stays that feel less like check-ins and more like coming home.

COURTESY OF KENWOOD INN & SPA

Relax at

boutique Kenwood Inn & Spa and unwind by the adults-only pool.

Sonoma County’s accommodations reflect the landscape itself— diverse, welcoming, and wonderfully unhurried. Here, hotels, vacation rentals, glamping spots, and elegant resorts offer ease, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES

OLEA HOTEL

This Glen Ellen respite is nestled near Jack London State Historic Park, and offers onsite spa services and comfortable cottages in a garden setting.

DECANTER HEALDSBURG

The premium, well-appointed vacation rental is set on four lush acres with views of Wine Country, yet is just eight minutes away from downtown Healdsburg.

GEYSERVILLE INN

Nestled between Dry Creek and Alexander valleys, this inn offers a central base surrounded by wineries.

COASTAL BEAUTY

TIMBER COVE RESORT

Rugged and cozy, Timber Cove Resort pairs mid-century lines with sweeping cliffside.

RIVER’S END

RESTAURANT & INN

In Jenner, River’s End

Restaurant & Inn sits at the meeting of the Russian River and the Pacific—intimate, elemental, and unforgettable.

BODEGA BAY & BEYOND

For those who want extra space or a slower rhythm, family-owned Bodega Bay & Beyond vacation rentals offers cottages and seaside homes made for families, friend groups, and long weekend getaways.

TRIED-AND-TRUE COMFORT

With trusted brands and thoughtfully located stays, Sonoma County’s hotels deliver easy access to Wine Country.

Settle into the more familiar warmth of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sonoma Wine Country, or the convenient and contemporary Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Inn & Suites Windsor, each one a dependable home base for exploring. In Santa Rosa, the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country blends polished design with a lively, walkable downtown location. The Quality Inn Petaluma-Sonoma, Best Western Petaluma Inn, and Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Santa Rosa Sebastopol offer approachable stays with thoughtful touches, placing you close to small-town charm, farm trails, and the county’s agricultural heart.

Decanter Healdsburg

Decanter Healdsburg

Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country

TOP-TIER SlEEPS

In Sonoma County, luxury isn’t about excess—it’s about savoring comfort, embracing local character, and staying true to place.

SMART STAYS

ElEVATEd DEAlS

Visit midweek or during off-peak season (fall through winter) for lower rates and seasonal packages.

At the grand Fairmont Sonoma

Mission Inn & Spa, geothermal springs bubble beneath Roman-style baths and pools, and Farmhouse Inn in Forestville offers a luxe and intimate escape. Having gone through a recent refresh, Vinarosa Resort & Spa adds another layer of wellness-forward luxury to the mix. The Madrona channels opulent whimsy in an 1880s mansion turned

The Classics

History also plays a role in where to rest your head. In Santa Rosa, Hotel E offers comfortable accommodations in a restored 1906 beaux arts building, while Hotel Petaluma and Hampton Inn Petaluma blend turn-of-thecentury character with modern comforts.

boutique hideaway in Healdsburg, and The Stavrand is a luxe boutique accommodation beneath towering redwoods in Guerneville—both received two Michelin Keys in 2025.

On the coast, The Sea Ranch Lodge frames Pacific views with minimalist elegance, while Dawn Ranch invites rest in cabins, chalets, bungalows, and tented suites amid the trees. Named No. 1 hotel in the world in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, The Lodge at Bodega Bay is where ocean bluff views meet uniquely crafted rest and restoration.

Hotel Petaluma

The Sea Ranch Lodge

ROOMS FOR gROUPS AND MEETINgS

Creative spaces, Wine Country warmth, and room to breathe turn every meeting into something memorable.

In Sonoma County, agendas are balanced with fresh air, thoughtful hospitality, and venues designed to spark connection. Picture meetings that flow seamlessly into spa time at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, where geothermal pools and garden

courtyards create natural pauses between sessions. Or harvestseason breakouts at Flamingo Resort & Spa, a 10-acre Wine Country icon with a year-round heated pool, cabanas, and a robust wellness program featuring yoga and Pilates. At DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sonoma Wine

ROOMS THAT GIVE BACK

Thanks to several lodging properties’ partnership with Kind Traveler, a portion of every guest stay will benefit a local charity. Scan for more.

Country, a morning round of golf or game of pickleball offers an energizing start to the day’s meetings.

For additional fullservice lodging, Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Rosa, and Sheraton Sonoma Wine Country Petaluma offer versatility and character, with expansive ballrooms and flexible breakout rooms (Hyatt and Courtyard) and a charming waterfront setting with modern meeting amenities (Sheraton).

For teams seeking vineyard views and space to recharge, Vinarosa Resort & Spa offers an ideal setting for wellness breaks, afternoon walks, and unstructured time that often yield the best ideas.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sonoma Wine Country

AutoCamp Sonoma

STAY PROUD

Discover LGBTQ+ friendly stays along the beautiful Russian River.

GUERNEVILLE

Sonoma County has long been one of the nation’s most LGBTQ+ friendly escapes, with the Russian River as the ultimate sanctuary. In Guerneville, stays range from the lively pool-centered vibe of The R3 Hotel to the rustic-chic cottages and suites at The Woods Resort, the modern calm of West Sonoma Inn & Spa, and the reimagined cabins and platform tents at Highlands Resort. Design lovers gravitate to boon hotel + spa, an adults-only retreat, and the Airstream accommodations at

BONNE NUIT

The Metro Hotel & Café in Petaluma is a boutique hotel, cafe, and art gallery with a Frenchinspired vibe.

Only in Sonoma County

The most unforgettable stays don’t just host you, they immerse you. Here, your lodging property becomes part of the adventure.

BEGIN YOUR VISIT with a true Sonoma County icon. Recently named the No. 1 glamping spot in the country by USA Today, Safari West is a 400-acre preserve offering an African-style safari

and overnight experience. Stay in a well-appointed canvas tent, complete with hardwood floors, en suite bathroom, and morning coffee to sip as you watch giraffes and other animals amble by.

Elevate your stay— literally—at Sonoma Treehouse Adventures (part of Sonoma Zipline Adventures), where you sleep up in the canopy in cozy treetop yurts in conjunction with a zipline

SWEET DREAMS

Rest easy. Tag #LifeOpensUp to share your memories.

“Luxury lives here.” @KMARIE1922

most serene escape.”

Anniversary Getaway”

@DR.ARIANNAGIANAKOS

Safari West

excursion. Keeping to the treetops, The Spectacular Spyglass Treehouse in Occidental is one of the most sought-after rentals. Nestled deep in the redwoods and featuring thoughtful amenities, including a sauna and hot tub, the rental is an immersive retreat.

OCCIDENTAL

On the riverfront, River Bend Resort keeps things wonderfully offbeat: Stay in restored vintage buses, including the beloved Magic Bus, or choose cabins and campsites steps from the Russian River.

Set just above a wide sweep of sand, Bodega Dunes

Spectacular SpyglaSs

Immerse yourself in a magical experience, where Artistree seamlessly blends artistry and sustainability. View towering redwoods from the cedar soaking tub or relax in the infrared sauna. This cozy space with floor-to-ceiling windows is a perfect sanctuary for rest, romance, and rejuvenation. Book at airbnb.com/h/the-spectacular-spyglass-treehouse.

dÉ @Arti S tree_treehouse

Campground offers a rare kind of coastal simplicity: a boardwalk leading to the beach, thoughtfully maintained campsites, and modern comforts like hot showers and flush toilets. With dark coastal skies, it’s an ideal setting for stargazing and sandy moonlit walks.

Prefer to pair your stay with 25-plus miles of hiking trails? Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers glamping that brings you closer to the quiet hum of the forest.

And only here can you pivot from wilderness to nightlife in a single day: Graton Resort & Casino offers a full stay-and-play experience—guest rooms, dining, gaming, big-ticket shows, and evenings that last as long as you want them to.

bY THE RIVER

In the redwoods, accommodations are tinged with magic. The River Electric sprawls across 12 acres of forest with mid-century-meetsmodern tents, pools, and communal energy, while Wildhaven Sonoma brings hotel-level comfort to riverside tents and cabins.

Sonoma SpyglaSs

Escape to where sustainability meets serenity. Artistree’s Wine Country retreat offers panoramic vineyard views from floor-to-ceiling windows, a soaking tub, and a handcrafted barrel sauna for an unforgettable escape. Explore renowned Sonoma County wineries and cuisine just minutes away. Book at airbnb.com/h/sweet-sonoma-spyglass.

dÉ @ S onomaS pyglaS s

Wildhaven Sonoma

SEBASTOPOL

The Inn at The Tides

Picture yourself here, a seaside destination nestled in the golden hillside, with a view of the water. Stroll the spacious landscape. It’s a dream come true to hear the sea, watch the bay sparkle, and enjoy the fresh, cool, clean ocean air. Relax in the sauna, indoor/outdoor pool, and hot tub. I nnaT the T ides.com

The Sea Ranch Lodge

Set along 53 acres of rugged Sonoma County coastline, The Sea Ranch Lodge offers serene guest rooms and Sea Ranch Living home rentals. Savor coastal cuisine, shop for memorable keepsakes, explore curated programming, and experience the spirit of The Sea Ranch—where the days are simple, the pace is gentle, and the landscape invites you to pause and enjoy.

T hesea R anchlodge.com F @ S earanch L odge d @ T hesea R anchlodge

BODEGA BAY

Vinarosa resort & spa

Indulge in the quintessential Sonoma County Wine experience at Vinarosa, a luxury resort nestled amidst 92 acres of rolling vineyards and breathtaking landscapes. Discover unparalleled hospitality, farm-to-table dining at John Ash, and rejuvenating spa experiences at The Spa at Vinarosa, all while immersing yourself in the beauty of Sonoma County. Create unforgettable memories at Vinarosa.

V inarosaresort.com

Fd @ V inarosaresortandspa

SANTA ROSA

Casia Inn

At the gateway to Sonoma County Wine Country, Casia Inn offers a serene retreat for a spontaneous getaway. Recently remodeled to blend modern amenities with natural beauty, the inn’s lush gardens provide peaceful spaces to wander, relax, and enjoy quiet moments outdoors while surrounded by vibrant blooms.

C asiainnsonoma. C om d @ C asiainnsonoma

GUERNEVILLE

SONOMA

BeautifulPlaces

BeautifulPlaces provides memorable stays, experiences, and the opportunity to live like a local. The award-winning vacation rental company offers one of the finest portfolios of private vacation homes in Sonoma County, ranging from hilltop estates with sprawling views to vineyard properties and cozy cottages. Stay in comfort with resort-like amenities including pools, hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, culinary gardens, and tennis, pickleball, and bocce courts. Enjoy tailored services ranging from private chefs, in-villa spa treatments, restaurant and winery recommendations, or stargazing with an astronomer. Private vacation homes are perfect for large groups, multigenerational families, nature lovers, and food and wine enthusiasts. BeautifulPlaces offers short-term stays and stays of a month or more to make the most of your time in Sonoma County. Call 800-495-9961 to plan your getaway.

SONOMA COUNTY

AutoCamp Sonoma

Experience the beauty of the redwoods and the best of Sonoma County Wine Country when you pair them with a stay at AutoCamp Sonoma, where a boutique hotel vibe meets nature escape. Tucked into a grove of secluded redwoods but only minutes away from hiking trails, swimming spots, and Guerneville’s charming main street, it’s the best of every world.

uto C amp. C om/ S onoma • Fd @ A uto C amp

Casa Panama

Casa Panama invites you and your loved ones to slow down, reconnect with nature, and renew your spirit. Discover serene river and ocean views, catch glimpses of wildlife, and unwind amid Sonoma County’s calm beauty. Here you’re surrounded by peaceful parkland, with plenty of room to explore with your dog. Book directly at casapanama.net.

GUERNEVILLE

Decanter HealDsburg

Privacy meets luxury in a well-appointed vacation rental home featuring three bedrooms, a family room, a game room, and a spacious dining room for gathering. You’ll appreciate upscale amenities like the fully equipped kitchen, mini-gym with Peloton, Tesla charging station, and a heated pool where you can soak in amazing Wine Country views. It’s a short drive to renowned wineries like Dry Creek Vineyards and Mauritson; let Decanter Healdsburg arrange a complimentary wine tasting for up to six guests at a nearby winery.

D ecanter H eal D sburg.com

d @D ecanter H eal D sburg

T o T:3568 n Permit:TV r -19-0040

FairField inn & Suites by Marriott

Your affordable, accessible hub for exploring Sonoma County is just minutes away from renowned wineries and the beauty of the redwoods, the Russian River, and the Pacific Coast. The hotel is just a mile from The Barlow Market and downtown Sebastopol’s restaurants and shopping, and parking and breakfast are always complimentary.

SEBASTOPOL

The Ranch house

Relax in serenity and privacy in this quiet three-bedroom hilltop retreat with amazing mountain views. From here, you’re just minutes from the Russian River, Lake Sonoma, wineries, and restaurants.

ai R bnb.com/ R ooms/6216100 vrbo.com/698532 Fd @ T heranchhouseca

Best Western Petaluma Inn

Best Western Petaluma Inn offers clean, comfortable rooms, a relaxing seasonal outdoor pool, and convenient on-site dining with a full bar. With easy access to Sonoma County Wine Country and historic downtown Petaluma, it’s a friendly, reliable choice for leisure and business travelers.

P etaluma B est W estern.com F @ B est W estern P etaluma

Quality inn PetalumaSonoma

Ideally situated near historic downtown Petaluma off U.S. 101, Quality Inn Petaluma-Sonoma is a short drive to vineyards, coastal parks, restaurants, and shops. Make the most of your trip with complimentary breakfast, oversized guestrooms, and pool and spa, plus an attentive staff.

winecountryqi.com

PETALUMA

PETALUMA

Sonoma Coast Living

Sonoma County Coast’s oldest independent brokerage is committed to offering clients a high level of service with honesty and integrity. No one knows the Sonoma County Coast like Sonoma Coast Living Real Estate Services. Let Sonoma Coast Living help you find your coastal dream home today.

S onomaC oastliving. C om

Bodega Bay & Beyond

Choose from the largest selection of vacation rental homes from Bodega Bay to Jenner. Locally owned and operated for more than 35 years, Bodega Bay & Beyond offers firsthand expertise in managing vacation rentals in Bodega Bay. Whether you’re seeking a couple’s retreat or a family reunion, book your stay and discover the charm of the Sonoma County Coast.

S onomaC oast. C om

BODEGA BAY

Fairmont Sonoma miSsion inn & Spa

Set among rolling vineyards near some of Sonoma County’s most respected wineries, the historic Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa offers a quiet immersion into Wine Country living. Days unfold at an unhurried pace and are spent soaking in naturally heated geothermal pools, enjoying farm-driven cuisine, or stepping onto the fairways of the adjacent Sonoma Golf Club. Shaped by nature, the experience feels distinctly Sonoma County.

SONOMA

FIND

SERENITY

THE RITUAlof Rest

Here in Sonoma County, wellness revolves around Mother Nature, with self-care often rooted in the environment, and the quiet yet profound healing powers of connecting with the earth.

bY CAREy SWEET

The Spa at Dawn Ranch is a sanctuary nestled in Sonoma County’s redwoods with Japanese-inspired soaking tubs.

Thoughtful touch, warm water, and quiet spaces work wonders: easing stress, lifting mood, and restoring balance. Spa treatments, particularly hydrotherapies and massages, can lower cortisol levels (stress hormone), release endorphins (natural mood boosters), relax muscles, and improve blood flow. Discover the spa experiences that define Sonoma County calm.

ROOTEd IN SONOMA COUNTY Anyone who’s visited farms and ranches can attest that time spent with orchards, animals, and happy creative people who love the earth’s bounty can bring blood pressure down. It’s definitely hard work for the farmers, but there’s something about getting your hands caked in fragrant dirt that can bring spiritual fulfillment. Some farms grow lavender, herbs, and botanicals for aromatherapy, soaps, and healing lotions; some raise bees for organic, antioxidant-rich honey (and to protect the world’s pollinators); and many grow grapes for that beloved balm, wine. Tip: Check Sonoma County Farm Trails (farmtrails.org) for information on local products and producers who welcome visitors.

Unwind in spaces designed for renewal.

FAIRMONT SONOMA MISSION INN & SPA

Built in 1927, this property attracts visitors from around the world for its natural hot springs, and for its architecturally intimate state-of-theart spa. Select from 28 treatment rooms, five indoor and outdoor pools, and the hallmark Nature Bathing Ritual, featuring a halotherapy sauna and Roman-style mineral pools.

gAIGE HOUSE

Combine the intimacy of a bedand-breakfast with the amenities of a luxury resort, and you’ve got this retreat overlooking Calabazas Creek. Sink into the deepest repose with the Ultimate Bliss Massage.

THE LODGE AT BODEGA BAY A

The spa’s stone building sits in a dramatic setting, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and anchored by an outdoor heated swimming pool and whirlpool. It’s cozy with just two treatment rooms, and regioncentric with signature sessions like the Aromatherapy Massage, blending essential oils of herbs, flowers, and tree leaves to relax, balance, and stimulate the body, mind, and spirit.

McEvoy Ranch

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

WAYS TO UNWIND

Even the most gentle adventures in fresh air help get your blood flowing, unclutter your mind, and reconnect you with inner peace.

MOVE WITH INTENTION

Whether it’s hiking, biking, jogging, or a leisurely stroll, regional parks and trails offer a calm respite. Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods is a nonprofit with a mission to protect the natural and cultural resources of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Austin Creek State Recreation Area, and Sonoma Coast State Park. The organization is a diverse community of people, programs, and partnerships that ensures the resilience of the lands and waters sustaining all living things. When stepping foot in the Armstrong Redwoods, visitors breathe deep in a grove of coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), the tallest and oldest trees in the world. Visitors can also join the Camino de Sonoma, a

75-mile walking path from the historic Mission San Francisco Solano in Sonoma to the Russian Orthodox chapel in Fort Ross State Historic Park Nestled in the Mayacamas Mountains, the 3,200-acre Pepperwood Preserve is home to more than 900 species of plants and animals, and is accessible only through scheduled public events and by appointment. For how immense this spectacular space is, it is surprisingly a secret to many. Those in the know sign up for Learning

THE NATURE OF WELlbEINg

OSMOSIS DAY SPA SANCTUARY

Landscapes, naturalistled hikes customized for small groups of all ages, with themes like discovering wildlife, or hands-on learning about Pepperwood’s biodiversity.

LISTEN IN

Serenity can come from simple pleasures like listening to the world around you. Sonoma County is a treasured source for hosted sound baths, meditation sessions, forest bathing, nature journaling, and plein-air painting. More and more resorts and wineries offer these activities. And local EcoWisdom Wellness arranges special spots for soulful introspection, ranging from oceanfront shinrin-yoku (Japanese forest bathing), to mystical sessions with therapy horses on a private ranch.

The signature at this Freestone-based spa is being buried up to your chest in deep wooden tubs filled with finely ground fermented cedar, rice bran, and living plant enzymes. The Japanese-style treatment is said to stimulate metabolic activity inside and out, and, indeed, the warm, fragrant cocoon leaves guests feeling tingly, radiant, and entirely pampered. Beforehand, meander around the meditation gardens and massage pagodas, then partake in a tea service overlooking a garden.

KENWOOD INN & SPA

The resort is shrouded by ivy, roses, and trees on a gentle hillside. And you’ll be shrouded in luxury at the elegant, intimate spa, where some treatment rooms have fireplaces. For treatments, massages offer optional CBD infusions and a signature facial features a plant-derived cosmeceuticals masque for optimal skin health and radiance.

Holistic

shares a “food as medicine” philosophy with vegan dishes and healing kavas, cacaos, matcha drinks, herbal teas, and elixirs. Visit Soft Medicine in Sebastopol, and you can experience this philosophy in the superfood cafe as well as mindful practice workshops and yoga.

BLISS ORGANIC DAY SPA

Escape to this unique paradise that includes secret treasures like an Ayurveda-inspired bathhouse with steam rooms, dry and infrared saunas, various baths (try the copper cold plunge), and couple’s programs. Then, treat yourself to a lymphatic massage to stimulate lymph flow, reduce swelling, and promote detoxification and immune health.

Find Your Zen WESTERN HILlS gARdEN

Spanning just three acres, this Zen-like wonderland in Occidental brims with five ponds, 34 bridges, rare conifers, a camellia forest, endangered Chinese maples, and dozens of fern varieties clustered around fog-kissed ponds.

Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary

INTO NATURE

Rest in Sonoma County’s natural spaces including Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve.

HEAlINg WATERS

Float away your worries at a mineral spa, where warm, mineral-rich waters create a deeply relaxing ritual rooted in nature.

bENEFITS

Soaking in mineral-rich geothermal water can be an extraordinary way to ease muscle tension, soothe aching joints, improve metabolism, and increase healthy blood circulation. Plus, it just feels so good, relaxing your bones in warm-hot, buoyant water. Pro tip: Alternating between hot and cold plunge pools is believed to promote cardiovascular resilience.

MORTON’S WARM SPRINGS

GLEN ELLEN

From May to September, sink into two hot spring pools, which read at a soothing 90–95 degrees. (There is also a geothermal wading pool for infants and toddlers; it’s never too early to get them on the path to wellness.)

FAIRMONT

SONOMA MISSION

INN & SPA

SONOMA

The pools are fed by the resort’s own ancient source of natural thermal waters, rich with 27 trace minerals, and you can practically feel the earth’s healing magic flowing from the springs 1,100 feet directly beneath the inn.

FARMHOUSE INN WELLNESS BARN

In true farmhouse style, the Wellness Barn looks like a barn—if livestock lounged in luxury digs resplendent with prancing charcoal horse murals. Holistic must-dos include herbal baths infused with local plants and/or CBD and gemstones, and a tea experience paired with floral readings to chart your positive energies.

BOON HOTEL + SPA

Tucked at the entry to Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, this oasis offers a calm, cozy spa suite with services that promise to make you “feel like

a feathery pillow that’s just been fluffed.”

WINE COUNTRY

MOBILE SPA

Bring the spa to you! This special service transforms your vacation rental, hotel, or home into a peaceful oasis with professional massages and personalized treatments.

JAIYEN SPA

Located in Petaluma and Sebastopol, Jaiyen Spa blends traditional Thai healing arts with modern techniques in a range of massages, body treatments, facials, and spa packages designed to relax, rejuvenate, and rebalance body and mind.

boon hotel + spa

Farmhouse Inn Wellness Barn

VINAROSA RESORT & SPA

Formerly Vintners Resort, the iconic luxury property has undergone a $15 million renovation inside and out, including its Spa at Vinarosa. Rejuvenate with a Wellness Recovery massage featuring ANTARA Organics’ small-batch CBD products. Rich in phytonutrients and therapeutic botanicals, this treatment delivers deep relaxation.

PEACE IN BLOOM

Among towering trees and wild-sourced botanical collections, the Sonoma Botanical Garden invites visitors to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover their calm.

AS SOON AS you turn in to the secluded entry of the 67-acre oasis that is Sonoma Botanical Garden, peace settles over you like a cozy cloak. More than 20,000 individual plants nestle amid towering trees, showcasing California’s native flora, plus one of the largest collections of scientifically documented, wild-sourcedfrom-seed Asian plants in North America. Among the 1,500-plus species, many are rare and even endangered.

It is blissfully quiet here, with breezes rustling through sprawling Asian magnolias, magnificent Chinese maples, and California manzanitas that are valued not only for the beauty of their sculpted arms of smooth, cinnamon-red bark, but for their urn-shaped flowers that nourish pollinators and berries that feed wildlife. In the backdrop: the soothing music of natural waterfalls and burbling creeks.

All around, seasonal marvels beckon in curiously named delights like the dramatic Sticky Monkeyflower shrub dotted with yellow-orange blossoms and Stinkhorn mushrooms that look like bright red Nerf balls. It’s impossible not to smile at the discoveries, and, yes, both plants are pungent to attract beneficial insects.

“In a world that moves quickly and demands so much of us, time in nature restores what stress steals,” says the garden’s executive director,

Botanical Garden

Jeannie Perales. “Being surrounded by living things— trees, blossoms, shifting light—grounds us. Places like Sonoma Botanical Garden offer a sanctuary where you can feel your shoulders drop, your breath steady, and your mind grow quiet.”

Through the three miles of scenic paths, you’ll discover different microclimates, from sunny, dry savannahs to shady, foggy-damp pockets. You’ll find small bridges, cozy pagodas, arbors, sculptures, and the Winged Wonders exhibit, mesmerizing 20-foot-tall bird sculptures crafted from bamboo and natural materials. But most importantly, you’ll find your calm.

“When I need to reset, I always find myself drawn to the Ting Garden,” Perales shares. “There’s something about the filtered light, the lush green planting, and that quiet coolness that feels like a deep

exhale. It’s my reminder that beauty, peace, and perspective are never far away—they’re right here in the landscape.”

“In a world that moves quickly and demands so much of us, time in nature restores what stress steals.”

—Jeannie Perales, Sonoma Botanical Garden executive director

Sonoma

Jaiyen Spa

More than just a massage, Jaiyen Spa specializes in spa rituals and massage therapies rooted in authentic Thai traditions. Transformative offerings include Thai, Swedish, and deep-tissue massage aimed at relieving stress and enhancing physical wellbeing, along with body treatments, aromatherapy, hot stones, and reflexology. Treat yourself to a spa package like the signature Jaiyen Blend, a combination of Thai yoga techniques and Western therapies that calms and de-stresses your mind and body. Jaiyen Spa is located right outside Sebastopol, with a second spa now open in Petaluma.

J aiyen S pa.com • Fd @ J aiyen S pa

SEBASTOPOL AND PETALUMA

The Spa at Dawn Ranch

Connect with nature and yourself at The Spa at Dawn Ranch. The Spa’s rustic redwood surroundings are an invitation to seek serenity and wellness with spa and healing experiences.

Botanically inspired massage and body treatments, facials, and healing therapies draw inspiration from Russian River Valley and can be customized to your needs. Take part in a curated bathing experience, inspired by Japanese Ofuro rituals, and relax in handcrafted redwood soaking tubs. Yoga, mindful meditations, sound baths, and self-care practices complement wellness and foster a sense of renewed focus and connection. You’ll leave refreshed and invigorated by the lush Russian River Valley setting.

D awn R anch.com/ R ejuvenaT e d @ S paaT dawnranch

GUERNEVILLE

Wine Country Mobile Spa

Enhance your getaway with luxury spa services delivered to your vacation rental or home. Wine Country Mobile Spa brings professional massage, warm stone therapy, and other indulgent spa treatments to your Sonoma County Airbnb, VRBO, hotel, or residence— perfect after a day of wine tasting. Relax deeply without leaving the comfort of your vacation home.

Osmosis Day spa sanctuary

Osmosis is the perfect getaway for immersive relaxation and rejuvenation. Journey to this five-acre Zen garden paradise, where you can jump into the healing alchemy of a cedar enzyme bath from Japan or soften with a heart-centered, 75-minute massage or organic facial. Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary is in the most magical part of scenic Sonoma County Wine Country.

b I g & SMA l L

Adventures

From family fun and furry-friend escapes to one-of-a-kind adventures and boutique shopping finds, Sonoma County invites you to slow down, explore, and play your own way.

By Jill K. Robinson

FOR THE TREES Armstrong Redwoods National Reserve in Guerneville offers selfguided nature trails, picnic facilities, and a much-needed reset.

PlaytimePERFECT E D

Creative play, classic rides, wildlife encounters, and high-energy thrills come together in Sonoma County.

Wild ENCOUNTERS

Getting up-close and personal with nature is an exciting way to play here. Go on safari and experience the Sonoma Serengeti at Safari West, a conservation park with nearly 900 animals, from giraffes to rhinos. Expand your natural science knowledge with a tour at the Petaluma Wildlife Museum,where high school docents guide visitors through a collection of artifacts, fossils, and taxidermy. Or, head to the treetops. Soar, zip, and speed through redwoods at Sonoma Zipline Adventures, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest, experiencing it as birds do—almost.

Safari West

COURTESY OF SAFARI WEST/ RAY MABRY

ROOTEd IN SONOMA COUNTY

Experience the area’s bounty as a family.

Get back to the land with Sonoma County Farm Trails or taste your way along California Cheese Trail. In Sebastopol, the Gravenstein Apple Fair celebrates the heirloom fruit with treats, music, and art. Visit Gold Ridge Organic Farm for a tour and tasting of awardwinning olive oils and more. Or join Sonoma County Mycological Association (SOMA) to forage for local wild mushrooms with a knowledgeable guide.

IMAGINATION and INSPIRATION

There’s nothing like spending time with a childhood friend, no matter how old you are. At the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, the Peanuts gang provides lessons that stand the test of time. Learn about Schulz’s life, his globally beloved characters, and lose yourself in your own creativity. Expand your knowledge of the world at the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County, with exhibits emphasizing hands-on learning about art, nature, and science through joyful experiences. Dive into the galaxy in the Space Odyssey exhibit, get your hands dirty in the Mud Lab, and more.

“When you step onto the museum

campus, you’re immersed in the world of Peanuts and Charles M. Schulz. The universal theme of being human has kept the characters alive through generations, regardless of how people were introduced to them.”

—Gina Huntsinger, Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center museum director

MEET

A PRO

Meet, watch, and talk to real cartoonists, animators, and artists on the second Saturday of every month at

Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center

Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center

Part of Sonoma County Farm Trails, Bees N Blooms is a lavender farm that also sells honey.

Children’s Museum of Sonoma County

PlAYTIME PERFECTED

FOR THE WHOlE FAMILY

Kid-friendly stays and easygoing tasting rooms make Sonoma County feel like everyone’s happy place.

Sonoma.

WINERIES AND

bREWERIES

AlEXANDER VALlEY VINEyARdS

This family-owned and -operated winery welcomes supervised children, who may be wowed by the cave tour.

FRANCIS FORd COPPOlA WINERY

Satisfy all ages with wine tasting and pool time (reservation required). Live music and activities abound in the summer months.

Sonoma TrainTown Railroad

SPLISH-SPLASH

Reserve your spot at the Francis Ford Coppola Winery pool.

LODGINg

CROOKED gOAT bREWINg

With Petaluma and Sebastopol locations, this taproom has a welcoming vibe for families and dogs.

RUSSIAN RIVER bREWINg COMPANy

The Windsor location offers a huge outdoor patio that’s ideal for spreading out and games of cornhole.

bELdEN bARNS

Entertain curious kids with a scavenger hunt adventure backpack. And

don’t forget to leave a wish at the Wishing Tree.

bREWSTERS bEER gARdEN

Slow down in this open-air beer garden (perfect to get wiggles out), listen to some music, and enjoy the passing of time.

bRICOlEUR VINEyARdS

Most parents can relate to the winery’s “flying by the seat of their pants” motto. So feel free to relax with the kiddos during a tasting.

SAN FRANCISCO NORTH / PETALUMA KOA RESORT

This campground has plenty of amenities for families, from a swimming pool to an action-packed summer recreation program.

RIVER bENd RESORT

Enjoy life along the Russian River, whether you’re staying in an RV, cabin, or tent.

WILdHAVEN SONOMA

Glamp it up in canvas tents or wood cabins with private access to the Russian River and comfortable memory-foam beds.

AUTOCAMP SONOMA

For quality family time, count the stars before heading to dreamland in an Airstream, camper, tent, or cabin at this refuge in the redwoods.

For families that love a good dose of excitement, Sonoma County delivers in spades. Entertaining generations since 1968, Sonoma TrainTown Railroad is a 10-acre amusement park featuring scaled-down locomotives, a 20-minute train journey, and a petting zoo. To burn a bit of energy, learn the skill of parkour at Flying Frog Academy through jumping, vaulting, and climbing, all of which teach problem-solving in a playful environment. Get behind the wheel of high-speed gokarts that hit 45 mph at Nitro City Racing’s indoor track, or mix up your entertainment options with other family-friendly attractions—from Rebounderz (trampoline arenas, climbing walls, Ninja Warrior course) to Scandia (mini golf, batting cages, blaster boats) to Poppy Bank Epicenter (laser tag, virtual reality arena, arcade games, bowling, and more).

Brewsters Beer Garden

Exploring LANd,

WATER , & ykS

Rooted on land, shaped by water, and lifted by sky, Sonoma County’s unique experiences invite deeper connection.

LET IT FlOW

Take to the water by kayak or stand-up paddleboard for a voyage on the Russian River, Petaluma River, or Bodega Bay. If you feel the need for a little more speed and want someone else to do most of the work, sign up for a sailing tour of Bodega Bay. Fishing is plentiful in Sonoma County, with great spots along the Pacific Coast, San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Russian River, and a variety of lakes, ponds, and streams.

DID YOU KNOW? The 110-mile-long Russian River flows through the majority of Sonoma Wine Country and all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

COASTAL CALM

Experience the rugged beauty of Sonoma Coast State Park. Pro tip: Sunsets are absolutely spectacular in fall and winter.

WHAlE WATCHING

Bring your binoculars to the coastline in winter to spot California gray whales, as they migrate from north to south along the coast. Here are some top viewing spots:

gUAlAlA POINT

REgIONAl PARk

SEA RANCH

COASTAL ACCESS TRAILS

STIlLWATER COVE

REgIONAl PARk

bODEgA HEAd

Turn to page 149 for more info.

On Firm gROUNd

The diversity of Sonoma County’s landscape means that visitors can choose activities that fit their adventurous spirit. Begin on solid ground, connecting with the land by hiking through coast redwood groves in regional parks like Gualala Point, Stillwater Cove, North Sonoma Mountain, Riverfront, and Monte Rio Redwoods. From there, the terrain opens up to horseback rides with views of the Dry Creek Valley AVA or a trail ride among a forest of oak and madrone trees at The Ranch at Lake Sonoma. And with Getaway Adventures, you can get a sense of the wine region on two wheels, pedaling next to vineyards and occasionally stopping for a taste.

TAKE TO THE SkIES

Few things rival a bird’s-eye view of the county by hot air balloon with Wine Country Balloons or Sonoma Ballooning. Stay out after dark at the Robert Ferguson Observatory, which offers telescopes for viewing, or book a private dark-sky adventure with Night Sky Adventure

Continue your star spotting at places like Bodega Head, Portuguese Beach, and Lake Sonoma Recreation Area

SPIRIT of the RIDE

See the area by bike while also doing some good.

Founded in 2009, Levi’s GranFondo is the first mass participation Gran Fondo in North America and is known for having the largest professional road race payout in the world for a one-day road race. Named for ex-pro rider and former Santa Rosa resident Levi Leipheimer, the event supports the King Ridge Foundation, which champions organizations serving at-risk youth.

Levi’s GranFondo features six routes—from an eight-mile family roll to a 137.5-mile behemoth that has a 13,867-foot elevation gain.

“It’s a postcard for Sonoma County,” says Carlos Perez, owner and president of Bike Monkey, the company that organizes the event. “The GranFondo has amateurs and professionals participating on the same day and same course that winds through this beautiful landscape, making it something really special.”

“You’re not just

a race, you’re immersed in the heart of Wine Country. The rolling hills, vineyard views, and sweeping elevation changes make it visually unlike any other track on the circuit. You can go from watching world-class racing one moment to sipping a local Pinot Noir or enjoying farm-to-table food the next.”

attending

—Emily Gerhold, Sonoma Raceway director of marketing and events

NEEd FOR

SPEED

Set among rolling hills and vineyard views, Sonoma Raceway offers a motorsports experience like no other.

From race weekends to yearround driving experiences, Sonoma Raceway blends high-octane thrills with the region’s relaxed, welcoming spirit. Emily Gerhold, director of marketing and events, shares what makes a day at the track feel uniquely Sonoma County.

WHAT DO yOU THINK MAKES EXPERIENCING A RACE HERE UNIQUE?

What truly sets Sonoma Raceway apart is the setting; you’re not just attending a race, you’re immersed in the heart of Wine Country. The rolling hills, vineyard views, and sweeping elevation changes make it visually unlike any other track on the circuit. You can go from watching world-class racing one moment to sipping a local Pinot Noir or enjoying farmto-table food the next.

WHAT’S THE EXCITEMENT OF RACE WEEkEND LIKE?

The very first lap of any major race at Sonoma Raceway is unforgettable; it’s the roar of the engines, the vibration in the grandstands, and the energy of thousands of fans reacting in unison. It’s the kind of moment that grabs you instantly, even if you’ve never watched a race before. For newcomers, the Fan Zone is an inviting place to start. It’s filled with music, interactive activities, local food and wine, and plenty of spots to talk racing with other fans.

OUTSIdE OF MAJOR RACE WEEkENDS, WHAT OTHER WAyS CAN VISITORS ENgAgE WITH THE TRACK?

One of the best-kept secrets of Sonoma Raceway is just how active it is year-round. Outside of our major NASCAR and NHRA weekends, there are cars on track almost every day. From professional test sessions to amateur track days, the facility constantly hums with activity.

Located within the raceway complex, the Sonoma Raceway Karting Center is one of the premier karting venues on the West Coast. California’s longest kart track sits atop a hill, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience for karters of all levels.

Levi’s GranFondo

Sonoma Raceway

LODGINg

Bring your furry best friend to share in the opportunity to slow down in nature at Dawn Ranch. If you and your pup enjoy the action closer to civilization, check in at the Flamingo Resort & Spa or Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

Because dogs need a vacation, too.

PUP-APPROVEd PICkS Outdoors

FOOd AND DRINK

Dogs are always food fans, and many Sonoma County restaurants welcome them. The outdoor beer garden at HopMonk Tavern (locations in Sonoma and Sebastopol) offers complimentary water bowls. Head to hot spots like Bravas Bar de Tapas, Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar, Barndiva, or Fogbelt Brewing Company with your companion for patio lounging. Check out Mutt Lynch Winery, voted most pet-friendly winery by Bohemian readers.

At Monte Rio Community Beach, licensed and leashed dogs can play on the sand and sniff to their hearts’ content. Similarly, leashed and licensed pups can accompany their human pals at Sonoma County Regional Parks, like Sunset Beach River Park, Doran, Gualala Point, Hood Mountain, Riverfront, and Spring Lake (the swimming lagoon is open to pups for a limited time after Labor Day).

SCAN for more dog-friendly options, including places to stay, dine, and play.

HopMonk Tavern

Dawn Ranch

Barndiva

WELl MADE Good Style,

Four seasons, four moods—winter layers, spring ease, summer lightness, fall texture—styled head-to-toe from Sonoma County’s independent boutiques and thoughtfully curated racks.

ST yl E d b Y

WIL d HONE y

Santa Rosa

Blueivy So Knotty Muscle Tee

ERIN MAVIS OTHING Cloverdale Necklace

WINTER CHIlL, Fireside Chic

When

SIL

SPRING HUES, Golden Sunsets

MASON

COOl bREEZE, Summertime Ease

Lightweight pieces, comfy slides, and breathable fabrics keep pace with long afternoons and even longer evenings.

ERIN MAVIS C l Cloverdale Men’s Denim

SONOMA OUTFITTERS

Rosa Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

MASON JAMES Duncans Mills

Grit & Grace

Protective Eye Earrings Brass, Handmade in Sonoma County

AUTUMN COLOR,Vineyard Vibes

Deep reds, warm neutrals, and polished silhouettes echo the season’s palette—made for

For curated vintage clothing and accessories, check out shops like Tiddle E. Winks Vintage 5 & Dime, Hot Couture, Aubergine Vintage Emporium, and more.

Duncans Mills Flat Brim Hat

OOH LA LUXE Petaluma & Santa Rosa

Bailey Rose Holly Ruffle Top

ERIN MAVIS C l OTHING

Cloverdale Jachs Lafayette Jacket

ERIN MAVIS C l OTHING

Cloverdale

Sierra Men’s Flannel

OOH LA LUXE Petaluma & Santa Rosa Olivaceous

MASON JAMES Duncans Mills

Grit & Grace Kailene

Earrings 14K Gold Plated and Aquamarine

ESTUAR y Petaluma Clare V. Grande Fanny Bag

SONOMA OUTFITTERS

Santa Rosa

Birkenstock

Boston Braided Clogs

CLOVERDALE

Cloverdale

Located at the northern gateway to Sonoma County, downtown Cloverdale offers a relaxed, walkable shopping experience rooted in small-town charm and creative energy. The historic downtown district is home to independently owned boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants inviting visitors to slow down, explore, and connect with the people and stories behind the businesses. Shopping in Cloverdale feels personal, intentional, and refreshingly unhurried, making it an ideal stop for travelers looking to experience Sonoma County beyond the well-traveled path.

1. nortH end At North End, fashion feels like friendship. California cool meets timeless favorites in a space where everyone’s welcome, style sparks conversation, and connection is always the best accessory.

nortHendCa.Com

F @ThenorThendsHoP

d @Shop_nortHend

2. The beet reStaurant & Wine Shop Here, Wine Country sophistication meets a welcoming, smalltown vibe. Farm-fresh ingredients, dynamic flavors, live music, and community come together in every glass and plate. Cloverdalebeet.Com

Fd @Cloverdalebeet

3. Sonoma CounTy Trading CompanY This unique refillery and collective specializes in sustainable, lowwaste, and eco-friendly products for home and body. Refill your favorite household cleaning and skincare products, and shop for locally made merchandise. SoCoTradingcomPany.Com

Fd @SoCoTradingcomPany

C loverdale C hamber. C om

loverdale C hamber

4. The Zen den at Studio 5 Yoga

In Sanskrit, yoga means “to unite,” creating union between mind, body, spirit and universe. The Zen Den encourages a growth mindset while supporting your specific needs on your yoga journey. Come and find grounding in this space.

F @StudiofiveYoga

d @Studio5Yoga

5. Plank Coffee

Plank Coffee offers pastries and bagels made in house, along with house-roasted coffees, freshly pressed organic juices, and an expansive vegetarian food menu. Enjoy quality coffee and food in a meeting place to gather with friends and family. Plankcoffee.Com

F @Plank-Coffee

d @Plankcoffee

6. Cloverdale Home & garden Rooted in community, this nursery and home decor shop boasts organic modern vibes. Shop for unique, carefully curated plants, edible plant starts, and handcrafted objects that bring warmth and beauty to your interior and exterior spaces.

F @PlanTcloverdale

d @CloverdaleHomeandgarden

7. The alChemY CollecTive

Welcome to your one-stop beauty and wellness shop. Treat yourself from head to toe with hair, skincare, and lashes to Botox and IV therapy, plus personalized service from The Alchemy Collective’s health and beauty professionals.

F @ThealcHemyCollecTiveCa

d @The_alChemY CollecTive_Ca

8. daHlia & Sage CommunitY market

Discover Dahlia & Sage Community Market, where grocery shopping is more than a quick stop—it’s a community experience. Stock up on local favorites and fresh essentials, enjoy friendly service, and soak in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. daHliaSagemarket.Com

d @daHliaSagemarket

Luther Burbank Home & Gardens

Explore the home, greenhouse, and gardens of renowned plant breeder Luther Burbank. The gardens are open daily, and tours are offered April through October. This peaceful oasis is a unique venue for weddings and special events.

L uther B urbank.or G

F @ L uther B urbank • d @ B urbankgardens

Museum of sonoMa County

Explore treasures and stories in the historic post office, experience inspirational art up close, and connect with culture and community at the Museum of Sonoma County. Come in and share your own Sonoma County story.

M useumsc.org • Fd @ M useumsc

Luther Burbank Center for the arts

Sonoma County’s gathering place for the arts, Luther Burbank Center for the Arts hosts concerts, comedy, family shows, and Symphony Pops performances in an intimate, 1,600-seat theater with cutting-edge sound and lighting. Find sanctuary in LBC’s free outdoor Art Walk and Sculpture Garden, with 40-plus contemporary works by local, regional, and world-renowned artists.

L uther B urbankcenter.org • Fd É @ L uther B urbankcenter

SANTA ROSA

SANTA ROSA

SANTA ROSA

Green Music center

Step into a season of extraordinary performances at the Green Music Center. Here, celebrated artists and exciting new voices come together to create unforgettable performance experiences. With a dynamic fusion of genres and global influences, performers deliver fresh inspiration while remaining deeply rooted in their cultural traditions. Built to bring together artists, students, families, music lovers, and more, the Green Music Center at Sonoma State University includes the intimate 240-seat Schroeder Hall and the 1,400-seat Weill Hall, boasting a rear wall that opens to lawn seating for a unique summertime experience. G mc.sono M a.edu

ROHNERT PARK

Nitro City RaCiNg

Nitro City RaCiNg

Excitement. Adrenaline.

Speed. Nitro City Racing is the home of Sonoma County’s premier indoor go-karting, axe-throwing, arcade, and family fun entertainment venue. Located in Rohnert Park, Nitro City Racing is perfect for your next family outing, birthday party, reunion, or team-building event.

Speed. Nitro City Racing is the home of Sonoma County’s premier indoor go-karting, perfect for your next family outing, birthday party, reunion, or team-building event.

itrocityracing. C

N itrocityracing. C om F @ N itrocityracing RohnertPark

d @ N itrocityracingrp

d @ ROHNERT PARK

NorCal Skydiving

Come fly with Norcal Skydiving over Sonoma County!

Own this unparalleled perspective and witness breathtaking vineyards, lakes, and mountains. Your amazing tandem adventure takes off from Cloverdale Municipal Airport.

N or C al S kydiving.com

Fd @ N or C al S kydiving

Gold Ridge OrGanic FaRms

Nestled among olive and apple orchards on 88 acres in Sebastopol, Gold Ridge Organic Farms transports you to a hillside in Tuscany. Located in California’s famed apple growing region of western Sonoma County and just 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean, it feels like a world away.

SEBASTOPOL

CLOVERDALE

Duncans Mills Candle Co.

Discover more than candles. This fragrance atelier offers a sensory experience, capturing Sonoma County’s towns through scent. Founder Stephanie Culen, a sommelierturned-scent connoisseur, crafts small-batch candles and fragrances on-site—beautiful for gifts and everyday living.

D uncansmills C andle C o. C o M

FdÉ @ D uncansmills C andle C o

COUNTY

Bike Tour

Sonoma

Experience Sonoma County with a blend of sustainability, style, and breezy fun. Bike Tour Sonoma offers premium e-bikes, refined guided and private tours, and seamless rentals with delivery throughout Sonoma County. Intercom helmets add subtle connection as you roll through vineyard landscapes. Discover the chic, earth-friendly way to explore Wine Country.

B ike T our S onoma.com

Fd @ B ike T our S onoma

Russian RiveR Railbikes

Discover the beauty of Sonoma County with Russian River Railbikes! Ride the rails through forests and vineyards to the Russian River on a fun, scenic adventure perfect for all ages. Reserve your ride today!

R ussianriver R ailbikes.org F @ R ussianriver R ailbikes • d @ R r R ailbikes

SONOMA

DUNCANS MILLS

CLOVERDALE

Woody’s Wine Tours

Picture the day unfolding effortlessly—sunlit vineyards, laughter with friends, and hidden gems only the locals know. From wineries, distilleries, and breweries to sightseeing and ice cream, your custom tour is created as you wish, with Woody’s Wine Tours handling all the details for a spectacular day to remember. Call 707-396-8235 to plan your tour.

W oodys W ine T ours.com • Fd @ W oodys W ine T ours

West Wine Tours

Explore Sonoma and Napa in restored vintage VW buses. Skip tourist traps for intimate tastings at family wineries and hidden picnic spots, and get local insider knowledge. Book solo seats or private tours for groups up to 28.

W est W ine T ours.com

Fd @ W est W ine T ours

É @ W est W ine T oursnapa

AND

Night Sky AdveNture

Tour your universe and make magical memories. Book a dazzling stargazing experience with Night Sky Adventure. Look through huge powerful telescopes and see deep into the Milky Way. View star clusters, nebulae, planets, and galaxies far, far away!

N ightskyA dve N ture.com

SONOMA

HEALDSBURG

SANTA ROSA

SANTA ROSA

Sonoma Wine RideS

Sonoma Wine Rides offers join-in, small-group wine tasting tours with a maximum of 12 guests. Your tour includes pick-up from Healdsburg to Petaluma and Sonoma to Sebastopol, plus an individual charcuterie lunch. Join-in tours are offered at a per-person price. Sonoma Wine Rides also custom curates private wine tasting tours, working with you to create the perfect itinerary for your group. Private tours are offered at an hourly rate.

Charles M. schulz Museum

Spend the day with Snoopy and the Peanuts gang! See original Peanuts comic strips, explore Charles M. Schulz’s studio, get creative in the art room, watch Peanuts animation on the big screen, and enjoy exhibitions for all ages. The museum is in Santa Rosa, where Schulz lived and worked for most of his career.

schulz M useum.org • Fd ù @schulz M useum

The FloaThouse

Steps from downtown, The Floathouse offers year-round river fun. Choose from kayaks, canoes, rowboats, SUPs, pedal boats, and water bikes, and enjoy family adventure, weekend workouts, or quiet escapes on the historic Petaluma River—the city’s longest, most inviting park.

T hefloathousepetaluma.org Fd @ T hefloathousepetaluma

Nichibei Potters

This husband-and-wife team has been making exquisite Japanese-inspired pottery since 1985. Their Sebastopol studio and showroom are open by appointment.

PETALUMA

SEBASTOPOL

SANTA ROSA

Sonoma Botanical Garden

Explore a serene woodland garden where East meets West at Sonoma Botanical Garden. A walk here offers year-round wonder, from seasonal blooms of rare plants to stunning autumn color. Special exhibitions and programs bring art and nature together for delightfully unique outdoor experiences in beautiful Sonoma County.

S onoma B g.or G • Fd @ S onoma B otanicalgarden

Bees N Blooms

Experience the magic of lavender at the annual Lavender Bloom Fest! Explore the breathtaking Lavender Labyrinth and stroll among vibrant flower gardens bursting with color. It’s a sensory celebration where nature, beauty, and relaxation come together in Sonoma County style. Bloom Fest is open weekends May 23–July 12 and select Friday evenings.

SANTA ROSA

GLEN ELLEN

THIS IS Wine Country

Sonoma County brings Wine Country back to its roots— deeply personal, wildly diverse, and shaped by families and makers who know the land by heart. Here, tasting goes far beyond the glass: Sip in caves, blend your own bottle, wander vineyard-adjacent art trails, or toast with highly soughtafter beers and ciders. Full of character, craft, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else, this is Wine Country reimagined.

By Maria C. Hunt

GLASS HALF FULL Find Wine Country Zen with a glass of wine on the Moon Deck at Gaige House in Glen Ellen.

DAVID H. COLLIER

“Sonoma County has that hometown OG charm. It’s easy to find some chill, no-judgment zones where you can feel free to explore wine.”

—Olivia Wallach, Sonoma County Wine Country expert

Jordan Vineyard & Winery

TIEd TO THE LANd

ROOTEd IN SONOMA COUNTY

Sustainability is a popular wine buzzword these days. But for families with centuryold wine estates like Robert Young, Martinelli, Boisset, and Chenoweth, nurturing the land is a way of life.

“People rooted to the land have a different approach,” says Clay Mauritson, a sixth-generation farmer and vintner at Mauritson Wines.

“Everyone in my family gets our water from a well. So nobody cares more about what is going into the ground and into the soil than we do.”

His ancestors settled in Dry Creek Valley in 1868, and the property is still fertile 158 years later due to careful decisions like converting to organic, biodynamic, and regenerative growing practices. The result is wines that taste more pure and don’t pollute the earth.

“If you take care of the land, the land will take care of you,” he says.

Martha Stoumen Wines harvest

WINE, THE SONOMA COUNTY WAY

Here, wine isn’t just poured—it’s grown, crafted, and shared with intention. Discover the stories and landscapes that set Sonoma County apart.

Sonoma County is justifiably famous: It’s blessed with a Mediterranean climate and fertile soils ideal for everything from Gravenstein apples to Shasta daisies to wine grapes. Since the 1800s, dreamers like Agoston Haraszthy of Buena Vista Winery, the Sebastiani family,

“NObODY CARES MORE ABOUT WHAT IS gOINg INTO THE gROUNd AND INTO THE SOIl than we do.”

—Clay Mauritson, sixth-generation farmer and vintner at Mauritson Wines

and Jacob Gundlach and Charles Bundschu of Gundlach Bundschu Winery have planted vineyards to build a better life. Today, that same spirit of possibility continues to define the region. And what sets this place apart isn’t just the range of what grows here—it’s the people who continue to grow it. Multigenerational families steward the land with the knowledge that farming is both a livelihood and a legacy, a practice shaped by ingenuity, resilience, and deep community roots. Their efforts have helped preserve agriculture as a cornerstone of Sonoma County’s identity, ensuring that the vineyards, orchards, and open spaces today thrive for generations to come.

INSIDER SIPS

Head to Hanna Winery in Alexander Valley for its unique sparkling Sauvignon Blanc, or check out Martha Stoumen Wines’ new Healdsburg tasting room for colorful Cal-Ital blends and bottled wine spritzers.

Dry Creek Vineyard

Martinelli Winery

WINE-gROWINg REgIONS

From fog-laced coastlines to sunlit valleys, Sonoma County’s AVAs tell a story of place—how climate, soil, and landscape shape distinctive wines across one of California’s most diverse regions.

AMERICAN VITICULTURA l AREA (AVA): AVAs are official appellations designated by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau to help winemakers describe where their wines come from and help visitors understand what’s in the glass.

Sonoma County stretches from the rugged Pacific Coast to the Mayacamas Mountains, creating a collage of microclimates and soils that shape one of the most diverse wine regions in California. More than 62,000 acres of vineyards and more than 425 wineries fall within 19 American Viticultural Areas.

Each AVA carries its own identity. Russian River Valley is known for fog-cooled Pinot Noir and Chardonnay; Dry Creek Valley excels with Zinfandel; Alexander Valley produces plush Cabernet Sauvignon; and Los Carneros is cooled off thanks to its proximity to San Pablo Bay.

Along the mountains and ridgelines, smaller AVAs—Rockpile, Pine Mountain–Cloverdale Peak, Fort Ross–Seaview, Moon Mountain, and Sonoma Mountain—offer dramatic terrain and intensely expressive wines. Others, like Bennett Valley, Chalk Hill, Fountaingrove District, Knights Valley, Petaluma Gap, Green Valley of Russian River Valley, Northern Sonoma, Sonoma Valley, and West Sonoma Coast, reveal the full range of Sonoma County’s landscapes.

Perhaps the most enigmatic of all is the Sonoma Coast AVA, a sprawling, cool-climate region stretching from windswept headlands to southern dairy land. Though vast, it contains some of the area’s most prized Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, shaped by daily fog, ocean influence, and hillside vineyards that rise above the mist.

For visitors, AVAs offer a simple guide: Follow the fog, the soil, the wind, and the sun exposure, and you’ll begin to understand why Sonoma County wines taste the way they do—and why no two places here pour the same wine.

HOW TOTaste LIKE A PRO

Now that you know a little about AVAs, it’s time to taste what the land has to offer with tips from a pro. Sonoma County Wine Country expert Olivia Wallach (@ollyverthewino), says Sonoma County is the perfect place to begin your wine journey.

The former tasting room host offers her tips for tasting wine:

1. SMELL

“If you’re having a hard time getting any smells out of your wine, place your hand over the glass, swirl it, and then smell because it traps aromas.”

2. SAVOR

“Don’t just drink the wine down. Swish it around (not as vigorous as mouthwash) and let it sit there to get some more flavors.”

3. TIP

“You tip a bartender, so do the same for a host who pours wine and tells stories.”

Beyond the Bottle

DISCOVER FOR yOURSELF HOW VINEyARd ART, blENDING SESSIONS, CAVE TOURS, AND MORE AdD TO THE WINE TASTINg EXPERIENCE.

The Art

OF WINE

Beautiful scenery can make wine taste even better. Revel in The Donum Estate’s world-class modern sculpture collection while sipping Pinot Noir or stroll Silver Oak Cellars’ gardens. Paradise Ridge Winery offers panoramic views and fine wines, but don’t miss the meadow filled with Burning Man-style sculptures. Pop next door for Bob Cabral’s Backstage Lounge Experience, featuring rock ’n’ roll mementos alongside Pinot Noir, dry Riesling, and Chardonnay, paired with your favorite music. And in warm weather, there’s no better place than the lavender fields at Matanzas Creek.

SCAN for more experiences that blend art, landscape, and wine.

ON DISPLAy

See artist Richard Hudson’s Love Me at The Donum Estate, along with dozens of other works of art.

INTO THE EARTH

Guests literally walk through the Mayacamas mountain range while touring the stunning Howard Backendesigned cave at Knight’s Bridge Winery, which specializes in fragrant Sauvignon Blanc and luxurious Bordeaux blends. In Healdsburg, Bella Vineyards’ chic caves filled with Scandi chandeliers and rustic wood tables are the perfect spot to explore old vine Zinfandels. Out in Sebastopol, try a flight

of Freeman Vineyard & Winery’s award–winning Pinot Noir during a cozy hillside cave tour.

SCAN for more wine cave experiences.

BLEND YOUR OWN

Create a DIY Super Tuscan at Muscardini Cellars, then name your blend and print a custom label. At Meadowcroft Wines, mix four wines

Without THE bUZZ

For when your palate needs a break

for a Bordeaux blend, then cork it by hand. And at Aperture Cellars, private groups can enjoy a Wine Country lunch and design a luxurious Bordeaux blend.

SCAN for more winemaking experiences.

SIGNATURE SIPS

Explore the many moods of Zinfandel at Dry Creek Vineyard, a sustainable family-owned winery known for powerhouse reds. Cartograph Wines’ multimedia Passion for Pinot tasting takes guests through the stages of fermentation, starting with sweet Pinot Noir grape juice and ending with finished wine.

SCAN for more Signature Sip experiences.

bONUS

Wine Road hosts three celebrated wine events in January, March, and November. Be sure to get tickets to these lively and immersive experiences.

Move over, Shirley Temple—there are a lot more interesting zeroproof sips in Sonoma County. Locals love Meadowcroft Wines’ Mixly mocktails in flavors like blueberry lemon sage, grapefruit jalapeno, and strawberry rhubarb. MacRostie Winery takes iced tea to the next level with a tasting of bespoke tea created from local flowers and herbs. At Alexander Valley Vineyards, a historic Healdsburg winery with idyllic gardens, designated drivers can sip housemade shrubs (a mix of grape vinegar and fruit) like Chardonnay pear and Pinot Noir elderberry.

CATCH A RIDE

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, recently honored as Best Tasting Room and Best Wine Tour in the 2026 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards, its seasonal trolley tour and year-round culinary experiences, including the Wine & Food Pairing and Secrets of Sonoma.

SIP THE RAINBOW Sonoma County invites everyone to explore Wine Country. Scan for a list of LGBTQ+ friendly wineries.

Freeman Vineyard & Winery

Dry Creek Vineyard

Profile

THE WOMAN BEHIND THE WINE

Martin Ray Vineyards & Winery’s director of winemaking reflects on the Sonoma County experience, and what makes really good wine.

Leslie Mead Renaud’s path to winemaking was a bit unconventional. With a degree in natural resources, she spent early chapters of her career as a scuba diver and forester for a utility company, building a deep, hands-on relationship with the natural world long before stepping into a cellar.

That foundation now informs her work at Martin Ray Vineyards & Winery, where she leads an allwoman winemaking team crafting a portfolio that reflects both precision and place.

“It was really good for me and it put the science and magic of winemaking together,” says Renaud, who is in her seventh year as director of winemaking. Working in the lab taught her to reverse engineer why a wine wasn’t developing as expected.

Concluding that good wine is made in the vineyard, she works closely with growers, tasting fruit to decide when it’s time to harvest.

“It’s really just envisioning where it’s going to end up as finished wine,” she says. “You want to hit that perfect balance between sugar and the acid remaining bright and lively.”

Leslie Mead Renaud

Though Renaud and her team collaborate to craft the winery’s Zinfandel, Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon, and Russian River Valley Chardonnay, her favorite grape is Pinot Noir. She uses the delicate, aromatic grape originally from Burgundy, France to craft expressive estate Pinot Noir, a Russian River Valley Brut rosé sparkling wine, and even white Pinot Noir that always sells out quickly.

“My No. 1 goal is to make wines that are really food-friendly,” says

Renaud. “They’re really bright with a pop of acid and also really enjoyable on their own.”

But beyond wines that pair well with a meal, Renaud says she loves the grounded feeling of wine experiences in Sonoma County.

“If you go to a winery, you feel like you’re going to somebody’s home instead of somebody’s showplace,” she says. “We’re more laid-back. I feel it’s more a sense of place than a sense of show. Sonoma [County] has a lot of authenticity.”

SIP ALFRESCO Enjoy a bottle or tasting on Martin Ray Vineyards & Winery’s shady patio.

Visit Jordan Vineyard & Winery for a tour, tasting, and seated food and wine pairing.

THE COOL AND UNEXPECTED

Sonoma Wine Country has always been about discovery, and these are some of the top must-try, personality-driven brands.

Burgundy lovers will want to explore aromatic coastal Pinots from Vaughn Duffy Wines, the poetic 777 Clones Pinot Noir from Papapietro Perry Winery, and the expressive varietals from Blue Farm Wines that rock star viticulturist Anne Moller-Racke shares in the garden of her chic historic home. Bubbly lovers should visit Gloria Ferrer, Jordan Vineyard & Winery, J Vineyards & Winery, and

Iron Horse Vineyards for gorgeous views and fine sparkling wines. For an all-around good time, Bricoleur Vineyards offers food and wine pairings in a family-friendly setting. And for outstanding wine value and Midwestern warmth, check out Eric Miller’s Kokomo Winery for classic Pinot Noir and Zin, or the Breaking Bread Pet Nat sparkling and Marmalade orange wines.

PINOTS & POOCHES

Pups are welcome! From wine tastings to campouts, Sonoma County was made for the dogs (and their humans). Tag #LifeOpensUp to share your memories.

“Ain’t no party like a KOA party.”

@KIKIF l OWERPOWER

WINEFREE Country

Beyond the vineyards, there are plenty of ways to taste Sonoma County’s bounty.

Start the day with Black Pig Meat Co. dry sugar-cured and applewood smoked bacon, a sourdough sticky bun from Wild Flour Bread, and expertly roasted beans from Flying Goat Coffee

The dry Monterey Jack from Vella Cheese Co. is exceptional; so are Cowgirl Creamery’s Red Hawk and the bloomy triple crème brie from Petaluma’s Marin French Cheese Co., which dates to 1865. Round out your charcuterie board with Journeyman Meat Co. ’nduja, Quail & Condor’s Danish rye, and a drizzle of McEvoy Ranch olive oil.

“Coast Life = Happiness” @FEATHERSANDMANE

“Living that Parent Trap life.” @A d AM_ g 93

Papapietro Perry Winery

LIQUID GOLD Book an olive oil tasting at McEvoy Ranch

Jordan Vineyard & Winery

bREW ORDER The New

Sonoma County’s beer and cider scene rivals any in California—more creative, collaborative, and grounded in community than ever.

bY JAy R. bROOKS

HOP TO IT

This is your starter guide to smallbatch brewers, cult favorites, and taprooms with big personality.

In the north, Windsor sets the tone with Russian River Brewing Company, where cult favorites meet a come-as-you-are vibe. Nearby, smaller innovators like CUVER Belgian

Brewers and Barrel Brothers Brewing Company add Belgian flair and an experimental edge.

Santa Rosa hums with craft energy—taprooms, brewpubs, and beer gardens are tucked into neighborhoods and along lively downtown blocks. Names like Cooperage Brewing Company, HenHouse Brewing Co., Moonlight Brewing Company, and Shady Oak Barrel House reflect the county’s range.

Farther south, Rohnert Park mixes campus-town spirit with fresh pours from Old Caz Beer, Parliament Brewing Company, and the breezy lakeside scene at Waterhawk Lake Club. Sebastopol brings locals together over pints from Crooked Goat Brewing, and be sure to stop by the original HopMonk Tavern. Petaluma blends big-name heritage at Lagunitas Brewing Company with the experimental fun of HenHouse’s Palace of Barrels. Out on the edges, places like Wolf House Brewing in Cloverdale, Stumptown Brewery in Guerneville, and Sonoma Springs Brewing Company in Sonoma remind visitors that every corner of the county has a beer worth exploring.

CHEERS TO yOU!

Whatever kind of pint you’re after, Sonoma County’s beer and cider scene is pouring. Tag #LifeOpensUp to share your memories.

g OO d TIMES

Brewsters Beer Garden in Petaluma pours more than 20 beers on tap and offers an elevated gastropub menu.

HenHouse Brewing Co.

HEAlDSbURG

1. Fogbelt Brewing Co.

WINdSOR

2. Barrel Brothers Brewing Company

3. Tilted Shed Ciderworks

4. CUVER Belgian Brewers

5. Russian River Brewing Company

gUERNEVILlE

6. Stumptown Brewery

SANTA ROSA

7. Iron Ox Brewing Company

8. Moonlight Brewing Company

9. Cooperage Brewing Company

10. Fieldworks Brewing Co.

11. Shady Oak Barrel House

12. Old Possum Brewing Co.

SEbASTOPOl

13. Ethic Cider

14. Horse & Plow

15. Golden State Cider

16. Crooked Goat Brewing

ROHNERT PARk

17. Parliament Brewing Company

18. Old Caz Beer

KENWOOD

19. Palooza Brewery & Gastropub SONOMA

20. Sonoma Springs Brewing Company

21. Pomme Cider Shop & Tap Room

22. HopMonk Tavern

PETALUMA

23. Goat Rock Cider Company

24. HenHouse Brewing Co. Palace of Barrels

25. Lagunitas Brewing Company

26. Hoocha Hard Kombucha

27. Adobe Creek Brewing

TASTINg TOUR

MORE TO TRY

Check out these great beer and cider spots, and many others, by visitingSonomaCounty.com

MAR k y OUR CALEN d ARS Head to Sonoma County for FeBREWary, Pliny the Younger, and Big Chicken beer events! Turn to page 97 for more.

Profile

THE TALE OF TWO TAPS

Two breweries, two generations, one vibrant craft community— Sonoma County’s beer culture comes alive in conversation.

Sonoma County’s beer scene is full of character, shaped in large part by makers who brew with equal parts craft, curiosity, and community spirit. At one end of the spectrum is Russian River Brewing Company, a name synonymous with California craft beer.

Husband-and-wife team Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo have grown the brand from its downtown Santa Rosa brewpub (opened in 2004 after Vinnie’s early brewing days at Korbel) to a beloved institution with a cultlike following and bustling second location in Windsor.

On the newer side of the tap list

sits Old Caz Beer, born from the creativity of Sonoma State University (SSU) graduates Tom Edwards and Bryan Rengel. After brewing their first batch in 2018, they opened a taproom the following year, and in 2024 expanded into a larger home in Rohnert Park’s SOMO Village. Together, these brewers reflect on the evolution and excitement of Sonoma County beer.

What first sparked the idea of opening your brewery here?

TOM: Bryan and I started home brewing at my uncle’s in Sebastopol and we continued through our college years, often talking about opening our own brewery. After college, I started working at nearby Bear Republic, and reached out to Bryan a few years later.

NATALIE: I had just graduated from SSU and was working in the wine industry, when Korbel decided to

best experience possible, whether that be at a winery or a brewery. People want a memorable interaction and personal connection. That’s what we’ve focused on.

What makes Sonoma County an inspiring place to brew?

VINNIE: There’s a strong maker community here, from chocolate to great agricultural produce to the beers we and others make.

TOM: Sonoma County is one of the greatest places on Earth to call home and it’s an honor to pursue our dream of running a brewery here. The fact that this county just happens to be home to some of the most influential breweries in craft beer history takes it to a whole other level of satisfaction.

What’s something visitors might not realize about your brewery or the greater beer community?

close the brewery. We loved Sonoma County and leapt at the chance to keep the Russian River name that Vinnie worked so hard to build.

How does the local wine culture influence what you brew?

VINNIE: For us, having wineries here is very helpful since we have a robust barrel-aged beer program where we only use used wine barrels.

TOM: We believe we live in an era where people are clamoring for the

VINNIE: Our brewery chalkboard is split into two sections, with the left section highlighting IPAs and lagers. I’d suggest venturing out to the right side of the chalkboard and

trying some of our Belgian beers like Damnation.

TOM: The Sonoma County beer scene is incredibly collaborative and on a level that warms the soul. We’re passionate about community, connection, and celebrating the little moments that make life worth living.

–J.R.B.

Natalie and Vinnie Cilurzo

Bryan Rengel and Tom Edwards

FROM ORCHARD TO glASS

A fresh look at Sonoma County’s apple-growing heritage and cideries

Apples have been an integral part of Sonoma County since the 19th century, when they were first introduced by early settlers. While most orchards have been replaced by vineyards, more than 2,000 acres of 150 different heirloom apples remain, including the Gravenstein, which has been an influential crop since 1811 when it was first planted in Fort Ross. Sonoma County’s apple legacy lives on, thanks to numerous cider makers who use local varieties to create a wide range of hard ciders. Taking full advantage of Sonoma’s apple legacy, Tilted Shed Ciderworks in Windsor creates incredibly diverse small-batch ciders, using 120plus varieties of apples from its own orchards along with local partners. The Newtown Pippin Methode Traditionnelle is a knockout.

In Sonoma, Pomme Cider Shop & Tap Room features

more than 125 ciders in its bottle shop, and 18 on tap.

A former apple processing plant in Sebastopol, The Barlow is a complex of shops and restaurants. It’s also home to the Golden State Cider taproom, where you can enjoy tasting flights, cans, and growlers of several seasonal ciders. Other places to sip hard cider in Sebastopol include Dutton Estate Winery, Ethic Cider, and Horse & Plow

While most cideries are in the Sebastopol area, a few are located around the county, such as Goat Rock Cider Company in Petaluma, Preston Farm and Winery in Healdsburg, and Old World Winery in Fulton, which makes the wild-fermented Trowbridge cider.

AN APPLE A DAY

In conjunction with Dutton Estate Winery, Dutton Ranch farms 200 acres of California certified organic apples that make their way into its hard cider.

Raise yOUR PINT

Plan your visit around these events. For more wine and beer experiences, turn to page 151.

FEbREWARy

When: February

Where: Santa Rosa

What: A month-long celebration of craft beer in Santa Rosa and greater Sonoma County visitsantarosa.com

bIg CHICKEN RELEASE

When: Late February–early March

Where: Petaluma, Santa Rosa

What: HenHouse Brewing Co.’s once-a-year Double IPA drop henhousebrewing.com/ bigchicken

PlINy THE yOUNgER RELEASE

When: Late March–early April

Where: Santa Rosa, Windsor

What: Limited-time annual release from Russian River Brewing Company

russianriverbrewing.com/ pliny-the-younger-release

gRAVENSTEIN

APPlE FAIR

When: August

Where: Sebastopol

What: Celebrating apples, craft ciders, and local fare gravensteinapplefair.com

PETALUMA RIVER CRAFT bEER FESTIVAl

When: September

Where: Petaluma

What: Waterfront fest with more than 20 breweries pouring local beers petalumarivercraftbeerfest.org

Wine Road noRtheRn Sonoma County

Explore more than 100 wineries and get to know the people behind the wines. Wine Road Northern Sonoma County is here to help make your Wine Country visit all that you imagined and more! #sipsonoma #wineroadlife

SONOMA COUNTY

Golden State Cider

Francis Ford coppola Winery

Wonderland awaits at Francis Ford Coppola Winery, where Sonoma County serenity meets cinematic flair. Step into the Tasting Room to enjoy a wine flight with no reservation required and discover wines rooted in vineyard heritage and craftsmanship. Stroll through the film memorabilia museum at your own pace or elevate your visit with a guided tour and tasting that brings Coppola’s films and winemaking to life.

At Rustic, wine leads the experience. Inspired by Francis and Eleanor Coppola’s passion for hospitality and gathering around the table, each varietal is paired with seasonal Sonoma County ingredients designed to highlight the character of every pour and celebrate the joy of sharing wine, food, and time together.

Make it a full-day wine country escape by reserving a cabine by the pool. Lounge vineyard-side with a glass of wine or sparkling wine, complemented by handcrafted cocktails and relaxed, seasonal fare from the Pool Café.

From unforgettable weddings to milestone celebrations and corporate retreats, Francis Ford Coppola Winery offers stunning settings for every occasion. Whether you are visiting for wine, relaxation, or celebration, every experience is designed to be savored.

PaPaPietro Perry Winery

What started as a humble garage winemaking operation is now one of the most respected boutique wineries in Sonoma County.

Papapietro Perry Winery uses traditional hands-on techniques to produce elegant, expressive wines that showcase the vineyard. The family-owned winery partners with legendary growers and vineyards from the Dry Creek Valley and Russian River Valley AVAs to craft small-lot Pinot Noir, with wines earning accolades and 90-plus scores from acclaimed critics. Make a day trip to Papapietro Perry’s tasting room, where a warm, laid-back atmosphere, excellent wines, and iconic views of the Dry Creek Valley await.

Pa Pa P ietro- P erry.com

Fd É @ Pa Pa P ietro P errywinery

Bricoleur Vineyards

Bricoleur Vineyards is a family-owned estate where wine, food, and community come together with intention. The property includes sustainably farmed vineyards, gardens, and olive orchards, all cared for with respect to the land. Guests are invited to slow down and enjoy seasonal pairings, thoughtfully made wine, and curated events that highlight craft and community. Families are always welcome, with spacious grounds and experiences designed to make visits comfortable for all ages. From estate wines to dinners, concerts, and seasonal celebrations, every offering is shaped by sincere hospitality.

B ricoleurvineyards.com FdÉ @ B ricoleurvineyards

Imagery estate Winery

Imagery Estate Winery blends the beauty of Sonoma County with a bold, creative spirit. Known for its limited-release wines and striking label art, Imagery invites guests to experience a tasting where craftsmanship meets imagination. Relax on the scenic estate grounds or browse the art gallery in the tasting room and discover small-lot wines available only at the winery, each paired with the story behind its original label artwork. Warm, welcoming, and distinctly creative, Imagery is a must-visit for those seeking something unexpected (reservations are recommended).

ImagerywInery.com • Fd @ImagerywInery

GLEN ELLEN

Limerick Lane ceLlars

Nestled just minutes from downtown Healdsburg, Limerick Lane Cellars is a hidden gem in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley AVA. This historic 115-year-old estate, known for its legendary old vine Zinfandel and Rhône varietals, offers guests an intimate glimpse into California wine history. Visitors are invited to explore the 53-acre property, where century-old vines thrive alongside olive trees and gardens, creating a setting of pure enchantment. Whether you’re savoring a private vineyard tasting or relaxing at one of the estate’s charming homes, every moment at Limerick Lane feels like stepping into a storybook—where time slows, wine flows, and magic lingers in the air.

L imerick L anewines.com FdÉ @ L imerick L anece L lars

HEALDSBURG

Pax Winery & Tasting room

Pax Winery & Tasting Room is known for its casual ambience in the heart of downtown Sebastopol. Chenin Blanc, Gamay Noir, and Syrah wines are crafted from organic and sustainable vineyards around California. These highly acclaimed, small-batch wines are featured on the menus of some of the best restaurants in the world.

Visit the winery and tasting room in The Barlow outdoor marketplace in Sebastopol and taste a selection of Pax Winery’s rarest and most eclectic wines. Walk-ins are welcome at the dog-friendly tasting room, and guided winery tours are available by reservation.

Paxwine.com • d @ Paxwines

J Vineyards & Winery

Whether you’re savoring an artisanal cheese pairing in the Legacy Lounge or indulging in an elevated five-course experience in the Bubble Room, every tasting at J Vineyards is an invitation to discover something new. J Vineyards celebrates the bounty of Sonoma County, where the finest local ingredients are paired in harmony with the winery’s acclaimed Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines.

J wine.com

Fd @ J winery

HEALDSBURG

Mascarin FaMily Wines

Ready for a fresh adventure? Discover Mascarin Family Wines, Sonoma County’s tucked-away gem in Healdsburg. Explore the gardens, unwind by the creek, and experience winemaker Matt Taylor’s innovative, terroir-driven wines. This is where a true sense of place meets natural beauty— bring your friends, connect with nature, and let the wine lead you somewhere new.

M ascarin- W ines.co M /experience

FdÉ @ M ascarin W ines

MacRostie Winery estate House

Time seems to stand still here as you take in sweeping panoramic views of the Russian River Valley, extending all the way to Mount Saint Helena. MacRostie’s dog-friendly patios, welcoming hospitality, and passionate, genuine ambassadors make it an inviting haven for a relaxed wine tasting. MacRostie is open daily.

HEALDSBURG

Ledson Winery & Vineyards

Steve Ledson comes from a long line of farmers and winemakers who have been in Sonoma County since the 1860s. More than just a winemaker or viticulturist, Ledson is a true vigneron—as one who does both, he personally walks the vineyards, tends each vine with sustainable, timehonored practices, and oversees every step of winemaking. His hands-on dedication yields expressive, place-driven wines that reflect the character of Sonoma County. Designed and built by Steve, the iconic castle winery is considered one of the world’s most impressive structures of its kind. Enjoy private and seated tastings. Reserve a table by the fireplace or in the West Oak Grove, and explore the Gourmet Marketplace’s selection of artisanal cheeses, meats, sandwiches, salads, and treats.

KENWOOD

Iron Horse Vineyards

Iron Horse Vineyards is defined by vision, purpose, and legacy. A pioneering family-owned estate in Sonoma County’s fog-kissed Green Valley, Iron Horse has been making sparkling wine since 1976. Sustainably farmed, 100% estate vintage wines are crafted with heart, celebrating place, community, and moments that call for something truly extraordinary.

Buena Vista Winery

Experience the award-winning wines and storied legacy of Buena Vista—California’s first premium winery, founded in 1857. Just a mile from Sonoma Square, here you can explore the historic Press House and Champagne Cellar, built in 1862 and 1864 respectively, tour the interactive Wine Tool Museum, or unwind in the elegant Bubble Lounge, where California winemaking history comes to life.

SONOMA

Gloria Ferrer

A pioneer of California sparkling wine, Gloria Ferrer is Carneros’ first sparkling wine house and a Sonoma Valley icon. Enjoy curated tasting experiences, food and wine pairings, vineyard excursions, and brunch— crafted with generations of expertise and a deep commitment to sustainability across 100% certified organic estate vineyards throughout scenic Sonoma County. G

St. FranciS Winery & VineyardS

Discover St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, one of Sonoma County’s best destinations for wine, food, and scenic beauty. Delight in acclaimed culinary and vineyard experiences set against breathtaking estate views. A winery committed to sustainability and inclusive hospitality, St. Francis invites travelers to experience authentic Wine Country in the heart of the Sonoma Valley.

SANTA ROSA

SONOMA

Dry Creek Vineyard

More than 50 years ago, David S. Stare opened the first winery in Dry Creek Valley since Prohibition. Today, Dry Creek Vineyard continues the legacy as a family-owned, sustainably farmed winery known for Wine Spectator-acclaimed wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Visit the tasting room in Healdsburg and enjoy tastings, vineyard tours, and a scenic wine garden (reservations are recommended).

D rycreek V ineyard. C om • FdÉ @ D rycreek V ineyard

DeLoach Vineyards

Discover DeLoach Vineyards, a Russian River Valley pioneer rooted on the idyllic Olivet Bench. This organic and Demeter-certified biodynamic estate crafts award-winning Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel that reflect their unique terroir—celebrating the harmony of nature, the diversity of each vineyard, and the true spirit of the Russian River Valley and its neighborhoods.

HEALDSBURG

SANTA ROSA

Bacchus Landing

Discover Bacchus Landing, a vibrant wine destination where Sonoma County’s best pours come together in one unforgettable place. This beautifully designed, open-air campus features six boutique tasting rooms, shaded patios, and a lively central piazza perfect for lingering with friends. Sip among a range of styles—from elegant Pinot to bold Cabernet—while exploring a curated collection of standout producers in one easy location. Enjoy live music, festive weekend gatherings, and special winemaker events throughout the year. With its modern Wine Country setting and relaxed, welcoming vibe, Bacchus Landing is your ideal stop for a full Sonoma County experience.

B acchuslanding.com • FdÉ @ B acchuslanding

Petaluma GaP

Petaluma GaP

Taste the Petaluma Gap. Defined by the coastal wind that cascades over the vineyards, the Petaluma Gap is a unique, cool-climate growing region producing acclaimed, delicious wines of distinction, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. Yes, you can taste the wind. Learn more and plan your visit at petalumagap.com.

Taste the Petaluma Gap. Defined by the coastal wind that cascades over the vineyards, the Petaluma Gap is a unique,

Adobe RoAd WineRy

Founded

SONOMA

Bartholomew Estate winery

Enjoy relaxing, authentic experiences featuring wines from the historic vineyards. Explore scenic Bartholomew Park and sample wines in one of the charming guest areas.

B artholomewestat E .com Fd @ B artholomewestat E

WINDSOR

Notre Vue estate WiNery & ViNeyards

Experience estate-grown wines and breathtaking views spanning the Russian River and Chalk Hill AVAs. Elevated tastings and scenic outdoor settings make Notre Vue Estate an unforgettable Sonoma County destination.

N otrevueestate.com • Fd @ N otrevueestate

Korbel Champagne Cellars

Experience a celebratory journey through California’s champagne heritage at Korbel. Complimentary tours provide an immersive walk through Korbel’s historic timeline, followed by a taste of California sparkling wine. Sit outdoors among majestic redwoods while enjoying delicious bites paired with your favorite bubbly.

C om • Fd @visitkorbelwinery

Burtech Family Vineyard

Discover Burtech Family Vineyard at Sugarloaf Wine Co., where passion and craftsmanship meet California charm. Savor award-winning wines in a warm, relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of Sonoma County Wine Country hospitality.

B urtechfamilyvineyard.com/ V isit-sonoma Fd @ B urtechfamilyvineyardsonoma

K orbel.

GUERNEVILLE

SANTA ROSA

SONOMA

RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

Croix Estate

Since producing its first vintage in 2012, Croix Estate has pursued excellence through patience, restraint, and humility. With a focus on single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Croix’s winemaking favors longevity and precision over trends and novelty. Reserve a private tasting and enjoy the best of warm, genuine hospitality and world-class wines without pretense.

C roixestat E . C om F @ C roixestat E d @ C roixwin E

Trione Vineyards & Winery

Trione Vineyards & Winery has been a cornerstone in Alexander Valley for more than 40 years. Rooted in the legacy of brothers Mark and Vic Trione, the winery sources fruit from five sustainably farmed estate vineyards across Sonoma County’s most celebrated appellations. The dedication to land and legacy that began with founder Henry Trione continues today through the vision of his granddaughter, Denise Trione-Hicks, who’s guiding a new generation of stewardship and excellence.

Bar NoNe’s CaNyon

Bar None’s Canyon old vine Zinfandel and Cabernet Franc grapes thrive in the rich volcanic soil of Nuns Canyon Vineyard in Moon Mountain District AVA, overlooking Sonoma’s celebrated Valley of the Moon— one of the best places to grow wine grapes, Bar None.

B arnones C a N yon. C om d @ B arnones C a N yon.wi N e

Coursey Graves estate

Embark on a journey at Coursey Graves Estate, where French countryside romance meets Sonoma County’s rustic charm. The estate winery’s hillside vineyards nurture estate wines of captivating complexity and offer a serene escape with breathtaking views of Bennett Valley.

C ourseygraves. C om • Fd @ C ourseygraves

Sangiacomo Family WineS

Sangiacomo Family WineS

A visit to Sangiacomo Family Wines offers a rare connection to the land that defines the region. The family has been farming in Sonoma County since 1927. Today, estate-grown wines, sustainable vineyards, and warm hospitality come

A visit to Sangiacomo Family Wines offers a rare connection to the land that defines the region. The family has been farming in Sonoma County since 1927. Today, estate-grown wines, sustainable vineyards, and warm hospitality come together at the family’s historic Home Ranch, an essential stop for experiencing Sonoma County from vineyard to glass.

Sangiacomo W ine S .com • Fdù @ Sangiacomo W ine S

SANTA ROSA

SONOMA

Sangiacomo W ine S Sangiacomo W ine S

GLEN ELLEN

A TASTE of SONOMA COUNTY

Across Sonoma County,

creativity thrives in kitchens both humble and high-end. You’ll meet chefs redefining fine dining, bakers shaping morning rituals, food trucks sparking curbside joy, and farmers and fishermen who anchor it all. Taste your way through farm-fresh produce, sustainable seafood, small-batch roasters, and nationally acclaimed bakeries—each offering a delicious glimpse into the area’s generous spirit.

BOON EATS

Farm-to-table is the name of the game at boon eat + drink (part of boon hotel + spa).

Tuck into seasonal salads, slow-braised mains, and whatever else chef Crista Luedtke dreams up.

Glen EllenSTAR

Chef-owner Ari Weiswasser’s wood-fired plates have earned Glen Ellen Star

Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition for more than a decade.

STELLA Kenwood

Chef Ari Weiswasser

A 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist, chef Weiswasser channels his expertise into Cal-Med signatures like handmade lumache pasta in tomato vodka sauce, Duroc pork chop in lemon-caper butter, and an Apulian mozzarella degustation menu.

STELLA KENWOOD COURTESY OF STELLA KENWOOD

THE CULINARY VANGUARD

With pioneers like Joe Negri, MFK Fisher, John Ash, Charlie Palmer, and Kyle Connaughton, Sonoma County has long attracted culinary innovators with big ideas. Here are some of the most exciting people in the industry.

By Maria C. Hunt

bOON EAT + DRINK

Chef Crista Luedtke

As proprietor and chef of boon hotel + spa, Crista Luedtke is one of Guerneville’s most hands-on culinary leaders. A longtime local champion, she’s known for constant innovation and collaboration—including working with chefs like Guy Fieri—while staying rooted in the day-to-day rhythm of her business. On any given service, you might find Luedtke moving seamlessly between roles: greeting guests, serving tables, wiping counters, or stepping in wherever she’s needed.

ACORN CAFE

Chef Beryl Adler

Chef Beryl Adler’s cooking gigs in Australia and Bali inspired his menu at Acorn Cafe, a bright, colorful breakfast and lunch spot on Healdsburg Plaza. Standouts include lemon-ricotta hotcakes and the teriyaki fried chicken sandwich.

bRIGITTE bISTRO

Chef Nick Ronan

An effusive veteran chef with a penchant for the Gallic double-kiss greeting, it’s no surprise Nick Ronan’s Brigitte Bistro—named for his late mother—is delightful. House specialties include French onion soup, Wagyu steak frites, and crème brûlée prepared tableside feel like a warm hug.

A&M bARBECUE

Chef Kris Austin

There’s a good reason barbecue fans line up on weekends at A&M Barbecue in Sebastopol. Personal trainer-turned-chef Kris Austin is smoking up legit low-and-slow Texas-style brisket (get the nachos) and St. Louis-style ribs; plus his jalapeno-cheddar sausages and meaty baked beans are made from scratch. It’s all worth the wait.

FOLIA bAR & KITCHEN

Chefs Reed Palmer & David Intonato

New American cuisine icon Charlie Palmer hired talented chefs Reed Palmer and David Intonato to run Folia Bar & Kitchen in the new Appellation Hotel. Mary’s chicken, Mt. Lassen trout, and burgers cooked over oak embers are the heart of the innovative local and sustainable menu.

bAZAAR SONOMA

Chef Sean Quan

Childhood memories inform the innovative dishes chef Sean Quan and partner Jenny Phan offer at Bazaar Sonoma. Think Zhong sweet pork dumplings with chili crisp, lotus root salad, and beef morsels crusted in spices, chilies, and peanuts. As they rebuild from a fire, follow socials for the next pop-up.

CAFE BITES

Acorn Cafe in Healdsburg is the perfect spot to soak up some sun over a meal with friends.

boon eat + drink

Brigitte Bistro

SEASONS EATING

Enclos’s chef Limoges serves a multicourse tasting menu that highlights Sonoma County-grown ingredients.

Table CULTURE PROVISIONS and BIJOU

Chefs Stéphane Saint Louis & Steven Vargas

At Table Culture Provisions, chef Stéphane Saint Louis wows guests and Michelin critics alike with approachable haute cuisine like fire-roasted squab with buttery Robuchon potatoes and Parker House rolls with beef-marrow butter. At Saint Louis’ sister restaurant Bijou, led by sous chef Steven Vargas, dishes like Liberty Farms duck breast à la orange with potato gratin showcase the Cal-French bistro approach.

Enclos

Chef Brian Limoges

Expect a transformative experience at Enclos, chef Brian Limoges’s intimate restaurant awarded two Michelin stars in its first months. The dynamic tasting menu, which may offer 60-day dry-aged tuna belly with koshihikari rice, passion fruit, and succulents or Wolfe Ranch quail with grilled roses and black truffle broth paired with exceptional wines, is a love letter to the California coast and Stone Edge Farm.

DRy CREEK KITCHEN

Chef Charlie Palmer

Dry Creek Kitchen, Folia Bar & Kitchen, and Andys Beeline Rooftop are just some of chef Palmer’s culinary delights that focus on local ingredients and open-fire cooking. With his progressive American cuisine, a meal at one of Palmer’s establishments is one you don’t want to miss.

Table Culture Provisions

Profile

LUXURY, REIMAGINED

In a quiet corner of Geyserville, Cyrus rewrites the rules of Michelin dining with storytelling, a people-first ethos, and uncompromising craft.

By Carey Sweet

When chef Douglas Keane and maître d’hôtel Nick Peyton opened the original Cyrus in 2005 in Healdsburg, a lot of observers thought they were crazy. The town was still a bit rough then— better known for biker bars, Keane notes. Yet a year later, the lavish restaurant won two Michelin stars and helped put the small town on the map.

In late 2022, Cyrus returned— this time as a striking $5 million, 8,000-square-foot architectural showpiece in Geyserville. The community certainly thought it was an ambitious move—the town was (and is) a tiny farming burg that celebrates winter with a lighted tractor parade down main street.

Yet the grand opening evening sold out within three hours, even at $295 per person and wine pairings an additional $250. Within three months, the restaurant got a Michelin star for its 20-course tasting menu of seasonal California fare accented by Japanese and other global influences.

“It’s like you’ve been invited to a cocktail party at someone’s house,” Keane says, describing the progressive dining journey that begins with Champagne and canapés and concludes

“IT’S A journeydining ... [A DEPARTURE FROM] LUXURY RESTAURANTS THAT STUPEFY DINERS WITH EXTENDED MULTICOURSE MEALS.”

—Douglas Keane, Cyrus chef

in the Chocolate Room for dessert.

“It’s a dining journey,” Keane explains, and a departure from “luxury restaurants that stupefy diners with extended multicourse meals running for hours at the same table, in the same room.”

In early 2025, Keane released a memoir reflecting on the personal and professional trials of his demanding career and his commitment to a new hospitality model: one that pairs exquisite cuisine with fair, cost-ofliving–appropriate wages for staff.

“I take a very deep look at myself and what we can do better,” Keane says of the book. “It’s part exposé, part confessional, part hopeful.”

As refined as Cyrus is, Keane keeps it grounded. While a formal evening might feature buttery A5 Wagyu drizzled with yuzu koshō, Sundays bring an eightcourse family-style meal of gochujang fried chicken, chilled lobster, and savory Japanese okonomiyaki. Served at a communal table, the experience feels shared, relaxed, and convivial—luxury, thoughtfully reimagined.

A SCENIC MEAL

After being greeted by Alexander Valley vineyard views, diners embark on a culinary journey at Cyrus.

THE ROOTS OF GREAT COOKING

From global delicacies to hyperlocal heirlooms, Tucker Taylor nurtures the ingredients that help Sonoma County’s chefs create truly unforgettable plates.

By Carey Sweet

As director of culinary gardens for Jackson Family Wines, Tucker Taylor is much more than a high-end landscape expert. For many years, he worked with Thomas Keller, supplying the chef’s Michelinstarred The French Laundry and other restaurants. And what he grows is exotic: oyster leaf originating from Scotland (its fleshy leaves taste like oysters kissed with seaweed), ice lettuce from coastal South Africa, crosnes from China (a tuber with a sweet-nutty artichoke flavor), kinome from Japan (citrusy pepper tree leaf), and many other delicacies.

The gardens also provide specialty produce for top Sonoma County restaurants Enclos, Bistro Lagniappe, Montage, and Valette. Taylor also works with San Francisco’s two-Michelin-star Saison and in a pioneering partnership with Mill, a food recycling machine company where the restaurant’s food scraps are composted overnight into nutrient-rich grounds Taylor then uses to cultivate produce that ultimately

returns to adorn Saison’s plates.

Anyone who has been to notable culinary events around Sonoma County has likely met Taylor, who greets guests with his signature hors d’oeuvre, a delicate bamboo cone stuffed with creamy hummus and an array of crisp, just-picked, ethereally flavorful baby vegetables.

The soft-spoken culinary artist admits he prefers working in the soil to doing interviews, but at a recent Gravenstein Apple Fair in Sebastopol, he joined a panel with the legendary Alice Waters, discussing the theme of protecting agricultural diversity.

“I’ve been working with chefs for a long time, so I will certainly focus on traditional crops, but in smaller sizes and interesting varieties,” he says of the dozens of often-rare heirloom tomato breeds the Jackson garden is famous for. “But between our soils, the climate, and being able to grow year-round, there’s no place like Sonoma County to always cultivate new things.”

GARDEN TOUR

See Tucker Taylor’s handiwork at Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens (part of Jackson Family Wines) during a culinary garden tour.

CURBSIDE CUISINE

Some of Sonoma County’s best bites come from behind the wheel.

Food trucks

are a delicious way to taste Sonoma County’s creativity on the fly.

In Petaluma, El Roy’s Express Mex draws loyal lines for overstuffed burritos and classic tacos—perfect pre- or post-river rambling. Santa Rosa’s La Fondita keeps things old school with handmade griddled tortillas, flavorful al pastor, and salsa that actually has something to say.

from Yucatecan cochinita pibil to churros under twinkling lights in Santa Rosa.

If you like to graze, head to Mitote Food Park, a vibrant Mexican food park where a rotating lineup of trucks dishes up everything

The Poke Truck is also a tasty option that offers hungry customers different Hawaiian-style poke, with a California twist. The ahi tuna in a homemade sauce will have you feeling like you’re on island time. When you’re chasing a pint, Lila’s Streetside Eats is often parked at local breweries, serving eclectic pub grub—loaded nachos, hand pies, and other shareables that pair perfectly with pretty much whatever’s on tap. Wherever you roam, check truck hours and locations before you go, then follow the locals to the nearest window and order what smells best.

MÁS SABOR Order things like quesabirria with consommé for dunking at Mitote Food Park.

ECLECTIC EATS

Find all manner of dishes from food trucks all around Sonoma County.

ALOHA

The Poke Truck serves up fresh, perfectly seasoned poke in Rohnert Park.

SCAN for a complete list of Sonoma County food trucks.

Fresh FROM THE SEA

Sonoma Coast’s rugged shoreline and working fisheries shape a seafood scene that’s fresh, seasonal, and deeply tied to place.

With the Pacific Ocean as its western edge and rivers threading inland, Sonoma County serves some of the freshest seafood in Northern California. Along the coast, small harbors like Bodega Bay, Jenner, and Gualala anchor a vibrant fishing culture where local Dungeness crab, rockfish, Chinook salmon, and oysters make their way from boat to kitchens across the region with ease. Chefs build menus around the tides—whether it’s woodfired mussels overlooking the water, briny oysters shucked at a picnic table, or crisp rockfish tacos after a bluff-top hike. And come October, restaurants and markets spotlight black cod and other delicacies. At a time when commercial crabbing is shortened and salmon season is paused, Sonoma County’s fall seafood celebration invites chefs to showcase the local catch.

FARM TO FORK

At the turn of the 20th century, famed horticulturist and Santa Rosa resident Luther Burbank declared Sonoma County the best place on earth for agriculture. Luckily, the area is still fertile ground for chefs eager to use the region’s bounty on their plates.

By Maria C. Hunt

After snagging a Michelin star in 2021, Studio Barndiva returned to its funky, fun-loving roots a few years later with more casual fare like Mt. Lassen trout, a double Wagyu burger with housemade American cheese, and apple galette made with apples from the restaurant’s farm. A former pandemic pop-up at Farmhouse Inn, Farmstand quickly became a popular spot for coffee, tea, and wellness-focused sips like cold-pressed juices or the Strawberry Fields smoothie with locally grown berries and lavender from the resort’s herb garden. Elsewhere, chef couple Samantha and

Ryan Ramey are so devoted to sustainability that they avoid big suppliers; menus at both Estero Cafe and Americana use 100% locally grown ingredients from places like Worker Bee Farm and Straus Family Creamery. Go to Estero Cafe for a California Benedict with local bacon and avocado, or check out Americana’s sourdough French toast with vanilla syrup or chicken-fried steak.

Americana Cafe

The Matheson

Estero Cafe

SingleThread chef Kyle Connaughton and wife Katina Connaughton

Sonoma chef doyenne Sondra Bernstein made the girl & the fig a destination for Rhône wines and rustic French fare in 1997. Locally smoked whitefish spread, Laura Chenel chèvre with arugula and figs, plus applewoodsmoked bacon and pork terrine from Sonoma County swine are delicious fixtures. With two Michelin stars, Enclos in Sonoma features a sumptuous tasting menu with local produce and uses sustainable and regenerative practices.

Dustin Valette and brother Aaron Garzini’s family legacy runs deep here. Together, they honor their family at Valette with dishes like halibut with house-made bacon and County Line Harvest Swiss chard and Liberty Farms duck with bok choy from Jackson Family Wines’ farm. Nearby at The Matheson, chef Valette creates upscale dishes like black cod with caviar, squash, and pancetta, while Roof 106 (the building’s rooftop lounge) serves inventive cocktails, pizzas, and shareable plates.

SingleThread

At SingleThread, chef Kyle Connaughton builds his seasonal kaiseki ryori menu around using every bit of the produce his wife Katina

grows at their farm. Creations like sashimi with strawberries at three stages of ripeness and Duclair duck with savory cabbage and huckleberries have made the threeMichelin-star Healdsburg spot one of the most influential restaurants of its generation.

Connaughton

Profile

PROOFED AND EXCEPTIONAL

Two visionaries, countless pastries, and nonstop innovation—this Healdsburg couple is redefining what a bakery can be.

By Carey Sweet

Sean McGaughey and Melissa YancMcGaughey move with endless energy, owning and operating both Quail & Condor bakery and Troubador Bread & Bistro in downtown Healdsburg while raising two young children.

Troubador is a double powerhouse. During the day, it’s an artisanal sandwich, cake, and pie cafe; but at night, the 16-seat space transforms into a fine-dining hideaway, impressing with a seven-course tasting menu with dishes like sea bream and mussels bouillabaisse splashed in cured-citrus dashi. It’s a natural flow for the two talents, who previously worked at Healdsburg’s threeMichelin-star SingleThread.

And the hard work pays off: Quail & Condor was named a finalist for the 2025 James Beard Outstanding Bakery Award and listed as one of the best bakeries in the U.S. by The New York Times in 2024. Even when she was working out of her original pop-up, Yanc-McGaughey won Food Network’s 2019 Season 6 Holiday Baking Champion. Certainly such dazzling work is a lot to tuck into two tiny shops, so much so that in late 2025, the McGaugheys moved Quail & Condor to a new 3,650-square-foot space with its own breakfast cafe, tempting diners with crackly croissants, laminated pastries,

and specialties like kouign amann, a French pastry the chefs decorate with caramelized salted sugar, and cinnamon rolls topped with cream cheese icing that sell out by 11 a.m.

“I’m an athlete, [and] I enjoy how athletic our work is. I ski and snowboard, Sean mountain bikes, and we play with earth’s natural elements.” says YancMcGaughey. “Baking and cooking let us be involved in the elements in a very different way; for example, interacting with ... sourdough. Seeing the environment affect it in the slightest way is so interesting to us.”

The couple is also constantly innovating with recipes. One of their favorites is a Danish rye.

“There’s so much nutritive value, you only need one or two slices to really fill you up,” Yanc-McGaughey explains. “And to play with flavors, we put a little coffee in there, too.”

FROM TOP: Quiche at Quail & Condor; Melissa Yanc-McGaughey makes a delicious creation; Melissa Yanc-McGaughey and Sean McGaughey

THE ART OF THE RISE

fruit galette (with a scoop of ice cream, of course) • Stellina Pronto mini crostata • Wild Flour Bread signature sourdough loaf • Costeaux French Bakery almond croissant • MARLA whole wheat levain • Mama Mel’s Bread gluten-free three-seed bagel • Blooms End at Neighboring Fields balsamic onion jam croissant Suisse • Wooden Petal Pretzel Parlor jalapeño cheddar or cheese herb pretzel twist • Basque Boulangerie Café braided brioche and panettone

WOODEN PETAL PRETZEL PARLOR

The jalapeño cheddar pretzel twists are fan favorites.

Wild Flour Bread

Stellina Pronto

COSTEAUX FRENCH BAKERY Bite into an almond or chocolate croissant.

COFFEE CULTURE

Explore the community hubs, roastery hangouts, and cozy corners defining the county’s coffee scene.

By Matt Villano

PETALUMA

Occupying an original Petaluma and Santa Rosa railway ticket booth, Grand Central Petaluma’s menu highlights coffee and empanadas. In the Warehouse District, Petaluma Coffee & Tea Co. is renowned for its ethical sourcing, and Avid Coffee, located in the bustling part of downtown, is great for a strong Americano.

COTATI

Honey Nut Cheerios have nothing on the honey nut latte at Cotati Coffee Company, a small but jovial gathering spot in the heart of Cotati. Other standout drinks include the toffee mocha and the Cotati Fog, a lavenderlaced spin on a London Fog.

HEAlDSbURG

Known for smooth singleorigin roasts, Black Oak Coffee Roasters has established itself as the epicenter of downtown culture. Other notables include Flying Goat Coffee, which roasts beans next to the old movie theater, and Plank Coffee, which also offers a great selection of gluten-free treats.

SEbASTOPOl

Locals swear by the smallbatch options at Retrograde Coffee Roasters, which sources beans from Mexico, Ethiopia, and elsewhere.

In The Barlow, Taylor Lane Organic Coffee is a local institution with industrialrustic vibes and a great mezzanine area for chatting or reading a book.

SANTA ROSA

The local LGBTQ+ community swears by Brew, which serves coffee in the morning and beer at night. Elsewhere around town, Crooks Coffee is known for creative drinks like the crème brûlée latte, while A’Roma Roasters Coffee & Tea in Historic Railroad Square carries the largest selection of coffees and teas in the area. Land and Water Coffee also offers modern and unique seasonal beverages, along with a relaxed atmosphere for catching up with friends or family.

Retrograde Coffee Roasters

Black Oak Coffee Roasters

Avid Coffee

Petaluma Coffee & Tea Co.

ClOVERDALE

1. Plank Coffee

gEySERVILlE

2. Fermata Coffee

HEAlDSbURG

3. Flying Goat Coffee

4. Costeaux French Bakery

5. Black Oak Coffee Roasters

6. Acorn Cafe

7. Quail & Condor

gUERNEVILlE

8. The Farmhand

9. Coffee Bazaar

10. Piknik Town Market

MONTE RIO

11. Lightwave Coffee & Kitchen

JENNER

12. Café Aquatica

SANTA ROSA

13. Land and Water Coffee

14. Brew

15. Crooks Coffee

16. A’Roma Roasters Coffee & Tea

17. Café de la Olla

KENWOOD

18. SPK Coffee & Breakfast

Sandwich

19. Pillowfight Coffee

SEbASTOPOl

20. Taylor Lane Organic Coffee

21. Sebastopol Sunshine Café

22. Retrograde Coffee Roasters

23. Hardcore Espresso

bODEgA bAy

24. The Birds Cafe

COTATI

25. Cotati Coffee Company

SONOMA

26. Sunflower Caffé

27. Equator Coffees

28. Småstad Coffee Roasters

PETALUMA

29. Grand Central Petaluma

30. Avid Coffee

31. Petaluma Coffee & Tea Co.

Land and Water Coffee

Featured in Food & Wine among coffee roasters recommended by world-renowned chefs, Land and Water Coffee is recognized as one of Sonoma County’s top coffee shops. Roasting on-site in small batches, Land and Water Coffee has two Santa Rosa locations: a roastery cafe and a downtown spot within walking distance from hotels and restaurants. Both serve award-winning espresso, pour-over coffee, and seasonal lattes, plus organic pastries and locally sourced menu items. Here you can get high-quality specialty coffee without the pretense. Both locations are perfect stops before wine tastings or between adventures.

L andandwater C offee. C om Fd @ L andandwater C offee

SANTA ROSA

Costeaux

Discover Costeaux French Bakery, where heritage, craftsmanship, and community come together daily. Since 1923, Costeaux has delighted guests with artisan breads, delicate pastries, and warm hospitality. The bakery-cafe in Healdsburg uses local ingredients to create memorable treats and meals. Savor a buttery croissant, a sourdough baguette, locally roasted coffee, or seasonal specialties from Costeaux inside Big John’s Market, Costeaux Petaluma, or Costeaux On The Go near the Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport. Experience why generations have made Costeaux a beloved Sonoma County destination.

C osteaux. C om F @ C osteaux • d @ C osteauxfren C hbakery

SONOMA COUNTY

The Bay View RestauRant & Lounge

Enjoy cocktails, sunset dinners, international chef’s cuisine, and fine desserts in this classic, intimate coastal setting. Listen to piano music Saturday evenings. Mingle and dine with winemakers and their fine wines during fabulous Winemaker Dinners (monthly). The restaurant is open Thursday–Sunday evening.

Songbird Parlour

Award-winning Songbird Parlour brings modern farm-to-table dining to Glen Ellen. Chef Miller McRae crafts craveable dishes like burrata with warm apple and bacon, Thai green curry clams, duck with pear mostarda, and filet mignon with Bohemian Well-Being Farm’s creekside shiitakes. Named one of Sonoma County’s best restaurants, it’s a cultural hub that celebrates local farms and winemakers.

S ongbird Parlour.com FdÉ @ S ongbird Parlour

GLEN ELLEN

innaT the T ides.com/ B ay- V iew- R estau R ant- L ounge • F @ T hebay V iew R estau R ant L ounge

BODEGA BAY

Bodega Bay Oyster Company

Family-owned and -run Bodega Bay Oyster Company farms shellfish in Tomales and Bodega bays, offering live and freshly prepared oysters, clams, and mussels. Enjoy the new menu and explore the boutique retail area for picnic and gift essentials. Come visit!

bodegabayoyster.com • Fd @ B odega B ayoyster

Goodness Gracious

Michelin-trained chefs bring farm-to-table magic to your vacation rental—from multicourse tasting menus to yoga-and-brunch experiences featuring local cuisine and sparkling wines for a memorable Wine Country getaway.

G oodness G raciouseats.com

F @ G ood G raciousprivatechef d @ G ood G raciouseats

Trillium Winebar & Taproom

Stop into cozy Trillium on Main Street for the perfect break from paddling the Russian River or hiking in the redwoods. Enjoy fresh oysters, house-baked breads, and wines from local vintners and around the world.

T rillium.bar • Fd @ T rillium W inebar

GUERNEVILLE

GLEN ELLEN

PETALUMA

The Lodge at dawn Ranch

More than a restaurant, The Lodge at Dawn Ranch is a gathering place where Northern California dining shines and guests can linger in warm hospitality. Chefs Juliana Thorpe and Ignacio Zuzulich craft inspired menus that meld South American and European influences with the local bounty and seasonal flavors. An eclectic wine list and vibrant, botanical-infused cocktails complement the menu. Savor a dining experience that’s at once elevated and grounded in Guerneville’s inviting beauty.

L odgeaT dawnranch.com d @ L odgeaT dawnranch

Sweet t’S ReStauRant + BaR

Sweet T’s serves Memphis-style barbecue, elevated Southern comfort food, and favorites from the low country to the French Quarter in a chic atmosphere. With locally sourced ingredients, a stellar bar program, and warm hospitality, Sweet T’s brings guests a little taste of home. SweettSsouthern.com • Fd @SweettSsouthern

El Coqui PuErto RiCan CuisinE

Traditional dishes are made tropical Latin style, with Caribbean recipes passed down for generations. El Coqui has been featured on Food Network. ElCoqui2Eat.Com • F @ ElCoquipueRtoricanCuisinE d @ E l C oquip R food

SANTA ROSA

GUERNEVILLE

HEALDSBURG

Basque Boulangerie Café

Boulangerie Café

Established in 1994 in Sonoma’s historic square, Basque Boulangerie Café is more than a bakery; it’s also the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, and drinks. Savor artisan breads, French pastries, cakes, desserts, and coffee drinks, and indulge in breakfast and lunch sandwiches in the cozy cafe.

Established in 1994 in Sonoma’s historic square, Basque is more than a bakery; also the perfect for breakfast, lunch, and drinks. Savor artisan breads, pastries, cakes, desserts, coffee drinks, and indulge in lunch sandwiches in the cozy asque oulangerie. C om

Fd @ asque oulangeriecafe

B asque B oulangerie. C om Fd @ B asque B oulangeriecafe SONOMA

BODEGA BAY

BODEGA BAY

Rocker Oysterfeller’s at the Wharf

Rocker Oysterfeller’s at the Wharf

This bar and restaurant is right on the water, with incredible views over Bodega Bay. Come for fresh seafood, dishes with Southern flair, creative cocktails, and excellent service.

This bar and restaurant right the with ible views over Bay. Come for fresh dishes with Southern flair, creative cocktails, and excellent service.

R ocker O ysterfellers.com

d @ R ocker O ysterfellersatthe W harf

R ocker O ysterfellers.com d @ R O ysterfellersatthe W harf

Lo & BehoLd Bar + Kitchen

Lo BehoLd Bar + Kitchen

A garden patio, lively bar and lounge, and plant-filled dining room set an inviting vibe. Chef-owner Sean Kelley’s menu is inspired by his global travels, with signatures like house-made kimchi noodles. The bar program includes ingredients from co-owner Tara Heffernon’s own farm.

A garden bar and lounge, and plant-filled dining room an Chef-owner Sean Kelley’s menu by his global with signatures like house-made kimchi The bar includes ingredients from co-owner Tara Heffernon’s own farm.

L oandbeholdca.com

Fd @ L oandbeholdhea L dsburg

L oandbeholdca.com Fd @ L oandbeholdhea L dsburg

VALLEY FORD

Rocker’s Roadhouse

Set in a historic 1864 roadhouse, Rocker’s Roadhouse offers casual dog-friendly outdoor patio dining, a cozy bar and restaurant, and rooms upstairs. You’ll feel at home here while dining on dishes that combine local ingredients with Southern inspiration.

R ockeroysterfellers.com d @ R ockersroadhouse

Jackson’s Bar & Oven

In the heart of Railroad Square, Jackson’s Bar & Oven feels like a neighborhood gathering spot everyone claims as their own. From wood-fired comfort food to local wines and seasonal cocktails, the vibe is relaxed and inviting. Come for lunch, dinner, or happy hour, and stay for whatever the night brings.

J acksons B arand O ven.com F @ J acksonoven d @ J acksons_ B ar_and_ O ven

Fern Bar

Fern Bar is Sonoma County’s award-winning neighborhood bar, where craft cocktails and seasonal flavors take center stage. Gracious hospitality and inspired cuisine shine in a lush midcentury modern setting. Fern Bar is rooted in local farms, sustainability, and good vibes. Come get cozy!

SANTA ROSA

The Tides Wharf

Made famous by Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film The Birds, The Tides Wharf is known today for excellent clam chowder, fresh seafood, mouthwatering burgers, and daily specials. Enjoy waterfront dining 365 days a year. Don’t miss the gift shop and fresh fish market.

innaT the T ides.com/ T ides- W harf-restaurant F @ T ideswharf • d @ T hetides W harf

Portico italian Social Food

Portico’s handmade Italian cuisine is inspired by Italy’s food capital, Bologna. Other regions of Italy are featured at monthly social dinner parties and during Portico’s annual culinary tours of Italy.

P orticosocialfood.com F @ PorticoitalianSocialFood d @ P ortico_ S eb

Augie’s French

Located in downtown Santa Rosa, Augie’s French is a welcoming bistro where classic French cooking meets Sonoma County warmth. Consistently recognized by the San Francisco Chronicle as one of the area’s top French restaurants, it offers travelers a relaxed, thoughtful dining experience that feels both elevated and completely approachable.

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SANTA ROSA

BODEGA BAY

SEBASTOPOL

MADE HERE,

with Heart

Meet the artists, makers, and growers shaping Sonoma County’s creative spirit through hands-on workshops, shared studios, and experiences that invite you to learn, make, and connect with the area itself.

bY MATT VILlANO

In Sonoma County, creativity runs as deep as the roots of its vineyards. From letterpress studios to floral farms, the area invites visitors to make alongside artists who call this landscape home.

In Petaluma, ceramicists unite at Kickwheel Sonoma, which bills itself as a “community clay center.” Instructors teach classes on various ceramic techniques, and members can sign up for individual time to throw and fire pieces. But if you don’t have time to learn to throw on the wheel, purchasing a unique wood-fired piece from Kickwheel founder Andrew Kontrabecki will suffice. Fiber Circle Studio takes a similar approach, only with felt, yarn, and thread. This knitting (and loom and crochet) facility offers classes along with all the supplies you could possibly want. The Petaluma Arts Center, located in a historic railroad

Petaluma Arts Center

Fiber Circle Studio

ClAY COMMUNITy Sign up for a pottery class at places like Kickwheel Sonoma in Petaluma.

depot, is more of a museum than a makerspace but the facility does host several hands-on classes every year. When a workshop isn’t on the books, be sure to stop in for a look at the permanent collection.

At the Sonoma Community Center, artists can take classes with Sonoma Ceramics and learn or sharpen skills in pottery or abstract sculpture. Classes range in duration and length—some are two hours on weekends, while others are four sessions every Friday for a month. The goal for all encounters: learning, inspiration, and community.

Florals is yet another underrated form of creative expression, and Healdsburg’s Dragonfly Floral offers

MAKE & CREATE

Regional makers and artists get creative all over Sonoma County. How will you be inspired? Tag #LifeOpensUp to share your creations.

year-round classes and workshops that inspire guests to experiment with this bloom-filled medium. Several of Dragonfly’s classes transcend botanicals and move into cooking, meditation, and more. And at Front Porch Farm, the hands-on Flower Porch workshops focus almost exclusively on florals; participants make an arrangement during every class and take it home when they leave.

continued on page 142 >>

“Beautiful day to do some live sketching and painting.” @JEROMESTUEART

“Had enjoyable plein air outings.” @STEVEWEINBER g ER

“What I think of when I think of Sonoma.”

@DANN y FO l KMANART

Front Porch Farm

Sonoma Ceramics

Petals & Place

Beyond learning how to make your own floral design, Dragonfly Floral also makes custom bouquets and arrangements and offers indoor plants ready to be taken home.

DIY abounds in the west part

North Bay Letterpress in Sebastopol, guests can try their hand at letterpress printing on machines that date back 100 years or more. The round. Down the street, artists at Chimera makerspace engage in digital fabrication, metalworking, woodworking, and more. Visit on the first Friday of the month, during which members throw a party and sell their wares all night long. The Sebastopol Center for the Arts has year-round exhibitions and regular markets at which local artists showcase and sell their work.

Creativity here goes beyond studio arts, too. In Forestville, the California School of Herbal Studies offers courses and workshops on how to work with herbs and embrace a natural, homeopathic way of life. So, whether you want to learn how to harvest medicinal roots, utilize herbal remedies, or plant your own homeopathic garden, the world is your oyster.

California School of Herbal Studies

Sebastopol Center for the Arts

FROM TOP:

SEBASTOPOL-BASED

ARTXCURSION is touted as Sonoma County’s exclusive artistic “staycation,” and that’s exactly how owner Alana Tillman likes it.

While the eight-year-old company hosts art classes at various businesses and destinations around the county, Tillman says the art is secondary to the moments the classes cultivate and the sense of place.

“I just want people to come, focus in on the moment, and learn about how beautiful this area is in a relaxed and inclusive environment,” she says.

As if the backdrop of

CREATIVITY THAT RISES ABOVE

Meet the local artist inviting everyone to explore Sonoma County, one painting at a time.

Sonoma County wasn’t inspiring enough, Tillman herself leaves quite an impression. The artist was born with a condition that left her without the use of her hands. She learned to draw and paint using her mouth, biting down on the brush or implement to give her complete control as she creates on the canvas in front of her.

Her methods have no bearing on the beauty of her artwork; all her pieces evoke the vines, redwoods, rivers, and oceans that make Sonoma County spectacular.

But really, ArtXcursion is all about the experience guests have. Tillman schedules two- and threehour painting classes in various spots around the area so her guests can get a different experience in a different place every time. Her most common destinations are breweries, wineries, cideries, and boutiques.

Typically, the first few minutes of class are quiet and awkward. Many guests are in awe watching Tillman

create. Some are just shy. Gradually guests begin to warm up. By the end of each experience, most guests are totally locked in, eagerly expanding their comfort zones and focusing on nothing but the creative exercise in front of them.

“I create a space where people can come be creative, let loose, learn something new, and leave feeling restored,” says Tillman. “It’s all about rising above. When I see guests do that, I know I’ve done my job.”

“IT’S ALL ABOUT rising above. WHEN I SEE GUESTS DO THAT, I KNOW I’VE DONE MY JOB.”

—Alana Tillman, ArtXcursion founder

Alana Tillman of ArtXcursion; In Bloom by Alana Tillman, acrylic on canvas; ArtXcursion participants

gATHER, TOAST, REPEAT

Let Sonoma County set the stage for your unforgettable celebration. By

Alejandra Saragoza

Love in Full Bloom

From sun-drenched vineyards and rolling hills to rugged coastline and towering redwoods, Sonoma County boasts a diverse tapestry of landscapes that can provide the picture-perfect backdrop for your wedding day.

charm galore

Find an idyllic place to start forever in one of the county’s rustic-chic barns, such as the historic Olympia’s Valley, Cornerstone Sonoma, or The Ranch at Lake Sonoma The pastoral surroundings create an inviting and elegant atmosphere, especially when combined with the warm glow of string lights or chandeliers. For another scenic backdrop, exchange vows overlooking the 105-acre agricultural preserve at Beltane Ranch

vineyard vows

If you prefer a quintessential Wine Country setting, hillside wineries like Robert Young and Paradise Ridge Winery offer breathtaking views. For something more unexpected, Sonoma County wine caves provide an intimate, candlelit ambience that emulates the magic of your special day.

inclusive event

For a seamless weekend, consider a full-service resort venue like Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country or Vinarosa Resort & Spa, both of which both have multiple indoor and outdoor venues to choose from.

nature lovers

Exchange promises beneath majestic redwood trees at venues like Dawn Ranch, where a lush canopy serves as a natural cathedral. If you desire dramatic sea-swept landscapes, you’ll discover untamed beauty in towns along the Sonoma Coast, such as Bodega Bay and Timber Cove

No matter your preferred scenery or vibe, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Sonoma County’s varied venues that promise an unforgettable beginning to your next chapter.

bEFORE THE

Big Day

There are countless ways to celebrate your upcoming nuptials in style.

GATHER THE GIRLS

Enjoy a weekend with your besties in Sonoma County, a Vogueapproved bachelorette destination. Choose from 425-plus wineries, standout restaurants, outdoor adventures, and unique experiences like hot air ballooning.

SAY AHH

Ease prewedding stress with a spa day. Host a pampering session for

your crew at Blush A Day Spa, or slip into serenity at Farmhouse Inn, renowned for its Wellness Barn.

WINE AND DINE

Kick off the festivities with a memorable rehearsal dinner. John Ash’s garden and vineyard setting exudes elegance, while the Depot Hotel Restaurant delivers Italian charm and classic Wine Country vibes.

“I DO” SONOMA COUNTY STylE

The intimate setting and lush gardens at Kenwood Inn & Spa create a magical setting for weddings.

SET THE SCENE

Inspiring spaces and plenty of room make every meeting memorable.

Planners looking to host their next meeting or gathering, consider a wine tasting mixer at Buena Vista Winery, or gather amid vineyards at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards or Geyserville Inn. For a teambuilding experience, stay in Airstreams at AutoCamp Sonoma. Downtown charm awaits at Brooks Note Winery and The Grove Events in The Barlow, while coastal views elevate events at The Lodge at Bodega Bay. Sonoma County Fair and Event Center and the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts can accommodate larger gatherings. And for an A/V-ready space, there’s Sonoma State University’s Green Music Center. Find a complete list of venues at SonomaCounty.com/ meetings-groups

SCAN for a full list of wedding services available in Sonoma County.

blOOMING IN SONOMA COUNTY

Florals from local flower farms add a unique touch to your special day.

From the bouquet you carry down the aisle to the arrangements adorning the tables, flowers bring vibrancy to your wedding. When grown locally, they also mirror the landscape around you.

That’s why Ashley Dannenbring, lead florist at Zannah Farms, sources straight from the fields of Sonoma County.

“Flowers that thrive in this region help bring everything together,” she says.

A tenth-generation county resident, Dannenbring draws inspiration from native grasses, grapevines, and whimsical wildflowers. The more than 15,000 flowering plants and 100 varieties she works with are organically grown and freshly cut on the farm.

Couples can visit the fields to view their options. Zannah Farms also offers flower arranging classes, DIY flower buckets, and an on-site stay.

“We’re not a conventional florist,” Dannenbring says. “We bring community to couples’ weddings and give them a special experience.”

“My advice

to

is

research the different types of flowers so you get an idea of what you like, and consider your wedding color palette and the season. Ask your florist all the questions you have—they’re there to help you figure out what goes together best.”

—Ashley Dannenbring, Zannah Farms lead florist

Zannah Farms bouquet

Ashley Dannenbring

Zannah Farms offers free consultations.

Go Your Own Way

Explore the area with ease and style.

SMART TRAIN

The Sonoma–Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) line currently runs from Windsor to downtown Petaluma, with plans to extend to Healdsburg and Cloverdale. Bikes are welcome on board, so you can cruise between destinations.

SONOMA COUNTY TRANSIT

The Sonoma County Transit bus system connects towns and station hubs across the region—including bus

access at many SMART train stops. Bikes are accommodated on certain routes.

SHUTTlE & PRIVATE CAR SERVICE

Groome Transportation provides reliable shuttles to San Francisco and Oakland international airports, while Pure Luxury Transportation offers private chauffeured vehicles and curated tours. And for a truly unique experience, buckle up for an open-air sidecar cruise with Sidecar Tours. P

y ROLL TIME

Prefer getting around on two wheels? Consider renting an e-bike with Redwood Bikeshare or Getaway Adventures

TRAVE l IN LUXURY

“Stress-free transportation is a seamless experience, where every detail is managed for you. It looks like arriving at your destination precisely on time without a single worry along the way.”

—Jennifer Buffo, Pure Luxury Transportation CEO

Land Easy SONOMA COUNTY AWAITS

Flying into Wine Country has never been this seamless.

Touching down in Wine Country is effortless when you fly straight into Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS)—the only commercial airport located in Wine Country. Compact, comfortable, and just a short drive from redwoods, vineyards, and the coast, STS places you in the heart of it all. Plus, travel is simple with direct service from Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines (arriving spring 2026). On-site car rentals, rideshares, and shuttle links via SMART train mean you can be exploring within minutes of landing.

F ly IN, WINE OUT Good news for all you oenophiles: Wine flies FREE on Alaska Airlines!

Getaway Adventures

Charles M. schulz–sonoMa County airport

Located in the heart of Sonoma County’s Wine Country, the Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) has local charm, short lines, and flights to major cities around the country. Skip the Bay Area traffic and touch down just a stone’s throw from wineries, breweries, restaurants, and more. Fly STS!

sono M aC ountyairport.org Fd @sono M a_ C ounty_airport

SANTA ROSA

yEAR-ROUNDAdventures

Sonoma County shines in every season. From winter whale migrations and holiday celebrations to spring mustard blooms and fall harvest events, each time of year brings its own kind of magic.

By Robert McGuigan

WINE STOPS

Vino lovers take note: April brings Passport to Dry Creek Valley, inviting guests to explore 16 scenic miles of food, wine, and live entertainment.

Passport to Dry Creek Valley

WINTER

Flukes and festivities that spread cheer

WHALE WATCHING

Winter along the Sonoma County Coast means one thing: gray whales. During their annual migration from north to south, these massive mammals pass close to shore, prompting excited cries of “Look, a whale!” and “I see a tail!” from lookout points and boat decks alike.

For an up-close experience, book a tour with Bodega Bay Whale Charters, Sonoma Coast Adventures, Bodega Bay Sport Fishing Center, or North Bay Fishing Charters to get facts on local wildlife and the history of the region.

Prefer to stay on land? Bodega Head offers one of the best vantage points in the county. Gualala Point Regional Park combines

expansive beaches with coastal hiking trails. Fort Ross State Historic Park pairs whale watching with sweeping ocean views and the remains of a historic Russian-era fortress. Nearby Salt Point State Park and Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve also provide rugged coastal trails ideal for spotting whales cresting offshore.

WINE COUNTRY HOLIDAYS

The holidays arrive with a distinctly Sonoma County feel: vineyard views, sparkling lights, and small-town celebrations. Across

STAY COZY Coastal temperatures run cooler yearround. Pick up a hoodie at Bay Surf Shack before heading out.

the region, you’ll find everything from Santa meet and greets and Hanukkah events to lighted tractor parades through town centers and boat parades along the Petaluma River.

Cultural events such as Posada Navideña at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts highlight the season’s

SPRING

Vineyard sips and a sea of yellow

Mustard season signals the start of Sonoma County’s bloom cycle. From late winter to early spring, rows of yellow flowers spread between vineyard vines and across rolling hills, creating one of the region’s most photographed scenes.

Wineries such as B.R. Cohn, Kunde Family Winery, Paradise Ridge, and Gloria Ferrer offer prime vantage points for viewing the blooms alongside a tasting. For a more nature-focused outing, walk or bike the Joe Rodota Trail or explore Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail

As always, admire responsibly—stay on designated paths and respect private property.

migration.

FALl

Autumnal color and full flavors

Harvest season is one of the most dynamic times in Wine Country. Vineyards glow in shades of red and gold as grapes reach peak ripeness and the energy of crush fills the air.

Experience estate tours, tastings, and occasional hands-on harvest activities, like grape stomping. Farm-to-table dining, seasonal menus, and special release wines add to the excitement. Fall in Sonoma County isn’t just about sipping—it’s about witnessing the culmination of a year’s work in the vineyard and raising a glass to it.

Mustard flowers brighten vineyards.

Spot gray whales during their winter

SCAN for more seasonal activities in Sonoma County.

EXPlORE SONOMA COUNTY SIgNATURE EXPERIENCES

Immersive, locally led experiences that reflect the true spirit of Sonoma County

Sonoma County is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to participate. Here, the people who grow, harvest, create, and cook are deeply connected to the land and proud to share it. Signature Experiences offer rare access to that world, inviting guests to explore alongside those who know it best.

From hands-on culinary adventures to vineyard walks, art workshops, and guided explorations of natural landscapes, each experience is crafted with care and rooted in community. Perfect for travelers, locals, meetings, weddings, and group gatherings, Signature Experiences reveal a side of Sonoma County that feels personal, purposeful, and unforgettable.

SCAN to see all the unique Signature Experiences that Sonoma County has to offer.

January

• Winter WINEland wineroad.com

• Chowder Day Bodega Bay visitbodegabayca.com/ chowder-day

February

• Cloverdale Citrus Fair cloverdalecitrusfair.org

• Sonoma County Restaurant Week socorestaurantweek.org

March

• Wine Road Barrel Tasting wineroad.com

• California Artisan Cheese Festival artisancheesefestival.com

• Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival steelheadfestival.org

• Sonoma International Film Festival sonomafilmfest.org

April

• Passport to Dry Creek Valley drycreekvalley.org/ dcv-passport

• Apple Blossom Festival and Parade appleblossomfest.com

SEASONS of Celebration

Sonoma County shines bright all year long with beloved festivals and can’t-miss ceremonies across its coast, valleys, and vineyards.

• Butter & Egg Days Parade & Festival petalumadowntown.com

• Battle of the Brews battleofthebrews.com

• Levi’s GranFondo levisgranfondo.com

May

• Bodega Bay Fisherman’s Festival bbfishfest.org

• Salute to American Graffiti americangraffiti.net

• Sonoma County Matsuri Festival sonomamatsuri.org

• Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience healdsburgwineandfood.com

• Women’s Weekend Russian River womensweekendrussian river.com

June

• Sonoma County Pride sonomacountypride.org

• Country Summer Music Festival countrysummer.com

• Toyota Save Mart 350 sonomaraceway.com

• Film Festival of Love truewestfilmcenter.org

July

• Fired Up Freedom sonomacountyfair.com

• Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic schabc.org

• Gay Wine Weekend outinthevineyard.com

• Lazy Bear Week lazybearfund.org

• Petaluma Music Festival petalumamusicfestival.org

• Ocean and Art Festival fortross.org

August

• Gravenstein Apple Fair gravensteinapplefair.com

• Cotati Accordion Festival cotatifest.com

• Art in the Redwoods Festival gualalaarts.org

October

• Sonoma County Harvest Fair harvestfair.org

• Healdsburg Crush bgcsonoma-marin.org/ healdsburgcrush

• Hitchcock Film Fest visitbodegabayca.com

November

• Wine & Food Affair wineroad.com

• The Lighting of the Sonoma Plaza sonomavalley.com

December

• Luther Burbank Home & Gardens Holiday Open House lutherburbank.org

Russian River Pride Parade

SCAN for dates, details, and the full lineup of Sonoma County events.

Gravenstein Apple Fair

Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country

The Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country is always open for connection. An ideal location near downtown Santa Rosa’s Historic Railroad Square and a variety of amenities set the stage for a memorable Wine Country stay.

The hotel’s 253 guest rooms and suites provide sophisticated comfort. Guests can find relaxation and recreation with the resort-style pool and hot tub, fitness center, running trails, bocce ball and lawn games, and bike rentals. Dine in style at the hotel’s three on-site restaurants, and unwind at the firepit with a local craft beer or glass of wine.

The hotel is the perfect setting for gatherings of all kinds, from corporate retreats and company meetings to wedding receptions and celebrations. With 40,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor space, dedicated coordinators, and a talented culinary team, special events are planned to perfection, down to every detail. As part of the festivities, guests can also enjoy curated activities like wine tastings, group yoga in the garden, and shuttle tours to unique Sonoma County attractions for the full Wine Country connection.

H yatt. C om/ H yatt- R egency/ S onom F @ H yattregen C y S onomaW ine C ountry • d @ H yattregen C y S onoma

SANTA ROSA