2025-2026 Petaluma Visitor Magazine

Hedge Realty

At Hedge Realty, real estate is more than transactions—it’s about community, connection, and the unique character of Petaluma. As longtime locals, Tim Little and Alexa Glockner lead a team that brings a hyperlocal, concierge-level approach to every client experience. With a blend of market expertise, creative storytelling, and deep community ties, Hedge Realty ensures every home shines—no matter the price point. Their trusted network of artisans, vendors, and specialists provides clients with unparalleled resources to navigate the North Bay market with confidence. Beyond buying and selling, Hedge Realty is committed to Petaluma’s vibrancy, actively supporting local artists, schools, and programs that make this town an incredible place to call home.

hedgerealty.com

Alexa Glockner

alexa@hedgerealty.com DRE 01329001

Tim Little

tim@hedgerealty.com DRE 01910516

Sonoma Spice Queen

Situated in the historic McNear Building in downtown Petaluma, Sonoma Spice Queen is a large full-service, certified organic spice shop. Experience exquisite flavors from around the world with handcrafted spices packaged in beautiful eco-friendly containers. Choose from a variety of herb blends, barbecue rubs, international mixes, salts, sugars, hot chocolates, and a stellar gift section, as well as local tea, honey, candy, and olive oils. A commitment to quality and authenticity ensures that every pinch delivers exceptional taste. Discover the difference that premium organic spices can make in your culinary creations.

sonomaspicequeen.com

G e @sonomaspicequeen

Curated Studio Designs

Your style. Your story. Beautifully designed.

Curated Studio Designs believes that great design isn’t about fitting into a single style—it’s about creating a space that feels like you. Their true specialty is versatility. Whether your taste leans traditional, modern, coastal, bohemian, eclectic, or something entirely your own, every detail is curated to reflect your personality, lifestyle, and needs. No two clients are alike—and that’s what inspires them most. Curated Studio Designs takes the time to understand your vision, and uses design expertise to bring it to life in a way that’s functional, beautiful, and uniquely yours.

Your home should tell your story. Let Curated Studio Designs help you design yours.

curatedstudiodesigns.com hello@curatedstudiodesigns.com e @curatedstudiodesignsllc

Au Thentic

The Shuckery

Scan for the digital version of this visitor guide.

Parrish Properties Associates

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, Petaluma Visitors Program & Petaluma Downtown Association

Marie McCusker

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Ann Hutchinson

210 Lakeville St., Petaluma, CA 94952 info@VisitPetaluma.com 707-769-0429 VisitPetaluma.com

Sonoma County Tourism SonomaCounty.com | 707-522-5800

PUBLISHED BY

PUBLISHERS

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

MANAGING EDITOR

Laura Kiniry

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Bree Montanarello

CUSTOM CONTENT EDITOR Callie Young Fromson

ART DIRECTOR

Heidi Schwindt

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Mary-Clifton Everette

COPY EDITOR Lauren Bonney

PHOTO EDITOR Jennifer Brazil

Welcome!

Just a few minutes into your visit to Petaluma, you'll know without a doubt why it recently made the list of America’s Best Towns to Visit by CNN. As one of California’s oldest cities, Petaluma has deep historical roots (p. 22). But there are many other sides of Petaluma that are ripe for exploring. Start downtown, where the gentle Petaluma River stretches past iron-front buildings, brick-walled alleys, restored Victorians, and other landmarks that have earned Petaluma’s placement on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, many of those buildings are home to award-winning restaurants, locally owned boutiques, vintage shops, wine-tasting rooms, art galleries, and more. (For the full scoop on Petaluma's vibrant downtown, turn to page 24.) And if you prefer to explore downtown from the water, it's never been easier to get out on the river. Our story on page 36 shows all the ways to play in Petaluma, from kayaking the river to hiking the bucolic hillsides. And when you've worked up an appetite, you're in the right place. Petaluma's dining scene is having a big moment, thanks to innovative chefs across the city who source hyperlocal ingredients for their menus (p. 44). Pair your meal with a glass of local wine from the Petaluma Gap AVA (p. 53) for a well-rounded taste of Petaluma's bounty.

Whether you're here for a weekend getaway, a midweek meeting, or a wine-country vacation, you'll find a variety of accommodations for all tastes and budgets. (Find the full list of places to stay on page 16.) No matter where your time in Petaluma takes you, we hope you take the time to slow down and savor the experience of being here. Welcome to Petaluma! —The Visit Petaluma Team

The Petaluma River flows through downtown.

Adobe Road Winery

Centrally located in downtown Petaluma and perfectly walkable from the Sonoma-Marin Rapid Transit (SMART) train, Adobe Road Winery Tasting Room welcomes you to taste handcrafted wines in an unrivaled setting. Featuring more than 100 wines rated 90-plus points by top critics, Adobe Road invites you to come by and enjoy tastings, wines by the glass or bottle, and weekly live music. Walk-ins and same-day reservations are welcome!

In 2002, owners Kevin and Debra Buckler founded Adobe Road Winery, with a unique tie to professional motorsports. As a championship race car driver, Kevin’s passion and drive has earned him more than 100 professional racing victories. Kevin is now dedicated to crafting exceptional wines that represent the pinnacle of quality.

Winemaker Garrett Martin celebrates 10 years at Adobe Road Winery, producing handcrafted, small-lot wines from esteemed family-owned vineyards across Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Through collaboration and meticulous attention to detail, these handcrafted wines reflect the unique characteristics of each vineyard site in which they are grown.

Coming soon, Adobe Road Winery will unveil its new Riverfront Winery & Entertainment Complex, featuring 160 feet of riverfront seating, a twostory open-air tasting room, a third-story event terrace, a custom wood-fired pizza oven, and an adrenaline-rushing motorsports museum.

Your perfect wine country escape starts now. Visit Adobe Road Winery in downtown Petaluma today! Book online at exploretock.com/adoberoadwines

adoberoadwines.com G e @adoberoadwines

Founder & CEO Kevin Buckler

2003 overall winner in 24 Hours of Daytona

Winemaker Garrett Martin

2021 SHIFT, 92 points—Wine Spectator

A River Runs Through It

Whether you're paddling the calm river, hiking the golden hillsides, or savoring a glass of local wine, surprise and delight await around every bend. Get ready to explore Petaluma.

eco-friendly

A Positive Impact

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of everyday life here. Petaluma is committed to preserving its natural beauty and resources for generations to come. From EV charging stations and carfree bike paths to shopping local and supporting green businesses, the city has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce its ecological footprint and promote sustainable practices. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you're invited to be a part of Petaluma’s eco-friendly journey.

SMART STAYS

Downtown Petaluma is home to several hotels that make it easy to walk everywhere you want to go! Turn to page 16 for more.

Secondhand Style

THESE THRIFT AND CONSIGNMENT SHOPS OFFER MORE THAN JUST BARGAIN DEALS. THEY’RE A SUSTAINABLE SHOPPING CHOICE WITH A POSITIVE IMPACT. HERE’S WHERE TO GO.

Known for an eclectic mix of clothing, accessories, and vinyl records, The Thrifty Hippy will put the groove in your style. For 30 years and counting, the Alphabet Soup Thrift stores sell clothing, furniture, books, and other goods at two downtown locations, with proceeds benefitting local schools. The inventory is constantly changing, so you never know what you might discover. For more fun finds, The Home Hub has affordable pieces to spruce up your interiors (the shop even has its own green junk hauling business), while Opera House Collective hosts three different shops, including a vintage shop and Zoe’s Clothing Exchange, all under one roof. Every purchase at the Great Stuff Thrift Store benefits Petaluma PET Pals, a nonprofit dedicated to helping animals in need. Win-win!

DID YOU KNOW …

The City of Petaluma and Healthy Petaluma District & Foundation launched the Blue Zones Project. Inspired by the world’s healthiest populations, this transformative initiative works by implementing community-wide changes, like pedestrian-friendly walkways and access to natural spaces, to enhance residents’ well-being, health, resilience, and economic vitality. It also hosts workshops in everything from teen art to community yoga.

Proceeds from Great Stuff Thrift Store benefit a local pet nonprofit.

Savvy Shopping

Tucked inside the Great Petaluma Mill, Refill Mercantile is an eco-friendly shop that breaks the cycle of single-use plastics. Shoppers use reusable containers to fill up on laundry detergent, shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, and more. Bring your own jar, purchase one on-site, or use a complimentary one that's been left on the community cart. This certified California Green Business also offers other thoughtfully made products, like plant-based wax food wraps, loofah dish sponges, and soy candles.

TAKE THE TRAIN

Hop aboard the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) train. There are two SMART train stations in Petaluma. Rail service heads north to Windsor and south to Larkspur. Bonus: SMART offers free rides for youths (ages 0–18) and seniors (ages 65 and up).

Planting Change

Seeds are the answer to generating a sustainable local food supply. So whether you're a new gardener or an expert green thumb, a trip to the Petaluma Seed Bank is a must. This unique shop sells more than a thousand kinds of seeds (including vegetable, flower, and herb) to keep heirloom varieties alive for future generations. Peruse the massive collection and snag a unique memento for your garden.

RIDE A BIKE

Redwood Bikeshare allows visitors to unlock and pay by the minute for electric bicycles. Bikes can be reserved at the SMART station and any of the numerous Redwood Bikeshare racks throughout town. Find rack locations and more information at redwoodbikeshare.com

HOP ON THE SHUTTLE LumaGo is a free, on-demand shuttle that serves central Petaluma. This pilot program is currently scheduled to run through fall 2025. Download the LumaGo app to book your free ride.

Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit

Petaluma Seed Bank

Refill Mercantile

PETALUMA

Home Away from Home

Sleep well, start your day easy, and take in the greater Bay Area’s spectacular offerings with Petaluma as your home base. Whether it’s taking in the majestic redwoods or sipping sparkling wine in Guerneville, the opportunities for day-tripping are endless.

By Ron Evans

SAN FRANCISCO

40 miles south via Hwy. 101

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge carries southbound visitors into the Presidio, where shoreline trails await as does The Walt Disney Family Museum and Lucasfilm campus (snap a pic at the Yoda fountain). Cable cars still climb the city’s hills, but now they share the streets with tech-savvy, self-driving Waymo cars (there’s an app for that). Take a spin on the 150-foottall SkyStar Wheel at Fisherman’s Wharf then scoot over to Chinatown for dim sum or the Ferry Building, where oysters, crepes, and confections hold sway. Culture hounds will dig the Japanese tearoom exhibition at the Asian Art Museum and works by Rodin, Degas, and other OG masters at the Legion of Honor.

NAPA VALLEY

25 miles east via SR 116 and 121

While many come to savor its full-bodied wines, the valley’s offerings extend well beyond its wine tasting rooms. Rent bikes and explore the Napa Valley Vine Trail, connecting the towns. Practice self care and soak in the hot springs or take a mud bath in Calistoga, the northernmost Napa Valley town that's famed for its nutrient-rich soil. Savor dishes from future top chefs at The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St. Helena. Downtown Napa makes for good shopping and has an eclectic mix of public art. Don’t miss Oxbow Public Market, a collection of eateries that serves everything from charcuterie and cupcakes to poke and pizza.

Ferry Building, San Francisco

SONOMA

14 miles north via SR 116/Stage Gulch Rd.

This lively hamlet surrounded by hills and vineyards earned its spot in California history when American settlers rebelled against Mexican rule in 1846. Today’s modern time travelers will get a feel for the period at Sonoma State Historic Park— costumed docents are occasionally on hand to answer questions about the barracks, mission, and other structures. Colorful shops and restaurants now link around the town’s shaded plaza, making meandering a must. Family-friendly Sonoma TrainTown Railroad, an old-school roadside spot, has a miniature railway, petting zoo, carousel, and other amusements.

BODEGA BAY

36 miles west via Valley Ford Rd. and Hwy. 1

Film buffs may recall this village as the setting for Alfred Hitchcock’s classic 1963 film The Birds. Some scenes were shot around The Tides Wharf & Restaurant,

which dishes up seafood favorites and displays photos from when Hollywood came calling. The 1873 Potter Schoolhouse, where a flock of birds attacks a group of children in the film, still stands in the nearby inland town of Bodega, only now it’s a private residence. (Please admire from afar.) Back on the coast, enjoy the two-milelong oceanfront stretch of sand popular with bird-watchers, kite surfers, and fishing enthusiasts.

POINT REYES NATIONAL SEASHORE

20 miles south via Petaluma Rd.

Home to tule elk, snowy plovers, and hundreds of other animal and plant species, this 71,000-acre preserve encompasses beaches, grasslands, and coastal pine and Douglas fir forests. Start at the lofty, barn-like Bear Valley Visitor Center, with its nature exhibits, flat trails, and picnic area, in the tiny town of Olema. On the park’s western edge, the Point Reyes

Lighthouse is perched above the sea and makes a great spot to watch migrating gray whales between January and March. Wear comfy shoes—you’ll need them to climb 300-plus steps of the outdoor staircase. Elephant seals gather en masse at nearby Drake’s Beach during the winter, allowing delighted visitors to watch moms with their new pups.

Sonoma State Historic Park

The Potter Schoolhouse, Bodega Bay

Point Reyes Lighthouse

Elephant seals, Point Reyes National Seashore

MARIN COUNTY

15 miles south via Hwy. 101

Take the outdoors by storm on the hiking and biking trails of majestic Mount Tamalpais. The rugged 7.5-mile Dipsea Trail runs up and over the ridge between Mill Valley and Stinson Beach. For a more serene and shady sojourn, duck under the sky-scraping redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument (advance reservations required). Rent a mountain bike and tackle Old Railroad Grade or the loop over at China Camp State Park. The county’s deep connection to the sport dates back to the 1970s and is celebrated at the Marin Museum of Bicycling in Fairfax.

GUERNEVILLE

37 miles north via Hwy. 101 and River Rd.

Once a logging hub, this small redwoodshaded community sees loads of summer action on the Russian River. Throngs of fun seekers come to swim or float down the bucolic waterway and frolic and sunbathe along its banks. No need to bring your canoe, paddleboard, or kayak; rentals abound as do shuttles back to your starting point. Drop by the Korbel tasting room afterward to toast your time on the water.

Muir Woods National Monument

Mount Tamalpais

rest your head

Stay Awhile

Whether it’s a historic hotel, campsite, or boutique inn, Petaluma is the perfect place to settle in. Find more at visitpetaluma.com/hotels.

TRIP TIP

Leave the driving to someone else and take the SMART train from downtown Petaluma to Larkspur. The train is timed to coordinate with Larkspur Ferry departures to San Francisco.

BEST WESTERN

PETALUMA INN

200 S. McDowell Blvd.

707-763-0994

bestwestern.com/ petalumainn

This pet-friendly family favorite is complete with pool, complimentary breakfast, and on-site dining at Cafe Bellini.

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

PETALUMA SONOMA COUNTY

700 Caulfield Ln.

707-347-5400

marriott.com

Unwind in contemporary rooms and enjoy an outdoor pool and fitness center. The hotel is close to the Petaluma Fairgrounds and has free parking.

HAMPTON INN

PETALUMA

450 Jefferson St. 707-397-0000

hilton.com

Housed in a historic silk mill, Hampton Inn Petaluma offers modern-day comforts like a complimentary breakfast. In the evening, relax by the firepit with a glass of local wine or beer.

HOME2 SUITES BY

HILTON PETALUMA 1205 Redwood Way 707-992-4900

hilton.com

Offering comfort and convenience, these fully equipped suites come with kitchens. Other hotel amenities include a pool, hot tub, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast.

HOTEL PETALUMA

205 Kentucky St. 707-559-3393

hotelpetaluma.com

Built in 1923 in the heart of downtown, this boutique hotel is steps away from shops and restaurants. Indulge in wine tasting and fresh seafood just off the lobby.

Hotel Petaluma

SAN FRANCISCO NORTH/PETALUMA

KOA RESORT

20 Rainsville Rd.

707-763-1492

petalumakoa.com

From rustic to refined, find a variety of options including RV sites with patios, cabins, and tent sites. Fun amenities include a dog park, pool, and petting zoo.

METRO HOTEL & CAFE

508 Petaluma Blvd. S.

707-773-4900

metrolodging.com

This French-inspired property charms with amenities like fresh crepes in the morning and claw-foot tubs.

QUALITY INN PETALUMA-SONOMA

5100 Montero Way

707-664-1155

winecountryqi.com

Relax with modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and a seasonal pool.

SHERATON SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

PETALUMA

745 Baywood Dr. 707-283-2888

sheratonsonoma.com

The award-winning hotel doubles as a perfect home base for exploring wineries, Graton Casino, and the coast.

Checking In

For more places to stay, head online to visitpetaluma.com/hotels

SUPER 8 BY WYNDHAM

PETALUMA

1368 N. McDowell Blvd. 707-781-5019

wyndhamhotels.com/ super-8

Conveniently located off Highway 101, this pet-friendly spot has free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool.

Quality Inn Petaluma-Sonoma

Escape to the heart of Sonoma’s wine country. Quality Inn Petaluma is ideally situated near historic downtown off Highway 101 and is a short drive to vineyards, coastal parks, dining, and shops. Make the most of your trip with complimentary breakfast, oversized guest rooms, and a pool and spa, plus an attentive staff.

winecountryqi.com

Sheraton Sonoma Wine Country Petaluma

Sheraton Sonoma Wine Country Petaluma is the ideal home base for a trip to wine country. Rest easy in the spacious guest rooms with Sheraton signature bedding, and take advantage of amenities like the outdoor pool and fitness center. Relax in the newly renovated lobby, and dine at Tolay restaurant. You’re just minutes away from historic downtown Petaluma with easy access to wineries. Planning an event? The property has 11,000 square feet of versatile meeting space.

sheratonsonoma.com G @sheratonpetaluma

Hotel Petaluma

Offering modern comfort with historic character, Hotel Petaluma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton has been welcoming guests for more than a century. The downtown lifestyle hotel puts you within steps of boutique shopping, tasting rooms, farm-to-table restaurants, and so much more. Comfort and convenience are at every turn, with spacious common areas and guest rooms loaded with all the amenities you expect for a great stay. Looking to host an event or meeting? Hotel Petaluma also offers flexible, one-of-a-kind meeting spaces.

hotelpetaluma.com | e @hotelpetaluma

Petaluma KOA Resort

Situated just outside the delightful town of Petaluma in Sonoma’s wine country, one of California’s top-rated campgrounds is ideally located just 40 miles north of San Francisco. The 70-acre grounds feature 312 sites, from high-end RV sites with patios to camping cabins and cozy lodges stocked with comforts like linens and wine glasses. San Francisco North/Petaluma KOA Resort offers Wi-Fi, cable TV, a playground, a rec hall, kitchens, a hot tub, and pool (open May–October), along with a host of activities from hayrides to horseshoes. All sites have firepits—the perfect way to relax under the night sky and gaze at the stars. petalumakoa.com | G @sanfranciscokoacampground | e @petalumakoa

Courtyard Petaluma

Discover elevated comfort and create lasting memories at Courtyard by Marriott Petaluma. Contemporary rooms offer plush Marriott bedding, ergonomic workspaces, and free Wi-Fi for a successful stay. Savor delicious entrées and craft cocktails at the Bistro. Stay active in the outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness center. Free venue parking complements your meeting or event.

marriott.com/sfocp

Best Western Petaluma Inn

Conveniently located right off Highway 101, Best Western Petaluma Inn is the perfect home away from home for exploring wine country, the coast, and downtown Petaluma. The welcoming inn is known for its clean, inviting rooms, warm personal service, complimentary breakfast, and on-site dining at Cafe Bellini. You can’t go wrong here.

bestwestern.com

Good Bones

PETALUMA’S PAST LIVES ON IN THE CITY’S REPURPOSED HISTORIC STRUCTURES.

“Petaluma is fortunate to have well-preserved resources that reflect its history through an extensive collection of building types and architectural styles,” says Katherine J. Rinehart, author of Petaluma:

A History in Architecture. “Not only does the city have a downtown that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but it’s also filled with properties that are seeing new life while retaining the historic character of their original use.”

Check out these adaptive reuse buildings in downtown:

1. Crooked Goat Brewing (110 Howard St.) is in the former Holm Tractor & Equipment Company building, built in 1927.

2. Estuary (120 Petaluma Blvd. North) lifestyle boutique occupies what was an 1860s flour mill.

3. Polly Klaas Community Theater (417 Western Ave.) is in a building that served as the Petaluma Christian Church from 1911 to 1971.

4. Grand Central Petaluma (226 Weller St.) coffee shop is housed in a former 1904 railroad ticket office.

heritage + legacy

Living History

Step back in time with the Petalumans of Yesteryear, a local nonprofit that brings Petaluma’s past into the present. By Laura Kiniry

Asmall group gathers out front of downtown's Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, listening as Sherri Ortegren, a walking tour guide with the Petalumans of Yesteryear, shares the story of Addie Atwater, one of the city’s early leaders. “Atwater was largely responsible for this building existing in the first place,” Ortegren tells the group. “She even wrote directly to steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, who donated money to erect free libraries worldwide, for a grant. I think that’s a pretty bold thing to do.”

Ortegren then turns towards the library, dones a flowertopped hat and morphs into her alter ego. “Well, how do you do?” says Ortegren, now in the

voice of Atwater. “It’s so good to see the streets of Petaluma again after all these years.”

For nearly three decades, the Petalumans of Yesteryear guides have been sharing Petaluma's past in entertaining and insightful ways. Along with Atwater, you might meet Mrs. Ida Belle McNear, who founded Petaluma Woman’s Club in 1895; Lyman Byce, the entrepreneur behind the city's booming egg industry; or Brainerd Jones, an architect who designed many local historic buildings, including the Old Petaluma Opera House.

While the Petalumans' downtown walking tour is undoubtedly their most popular ("Honestly, you could take this tour five times and always get a different dose,” says Ortegren),

the nonprofit also leads strolls through the Oakhill-Brewster and “A” Street historic districts, as well as annual cemetery tours in October.

Recently, the Petalumans started hosting monthly murder mystery dinner parties. These eight-person soirées are based on local characters and take place at various restaurants around town. They also collaborate with The Floathouse on kayaking tours that share the city’s history via the river.

“Our mission is really simple,” says Ortegren. “We just love bringing history to life.”

The Petalumans of Yesteryear downtown walking tour takes place Saturday at 10:30 a.m., May through November.

McNear Building

Crooked Goat Brewing, housed in a 1927 building

Chicken or the Egg?

WHICH CAME FIRST? DISCOVER HOW PETALUMA BECAME THE “WORLD’S EGG BASKET.”

In the mid to late 19th century, Petaluma established itself as a poultry town after the founding of the first commercial hatchery in the U.S. and the perfecting of the egg incubator. From that point on, commercial egg production took off.

The egg industry was so successful that Petaluma’s economy swelled and it became one of America's wealthiest towns. Special breeding programs were implemented and the Single Comb White Leghorn became the favored egg-producing machine—hens were capable of laying an average of 200 eggs a year! In 1923, The Chicken Pharmacy opened on Main Street, and

was the world's only drugstore specializing in poultry health. After earning the "World's Egg Basket" title in 1918, Petaluma remained dedicated to all things chicken, including celebrating it during the annual Egg Day Parade and even naming a baseball team after a poultry breed. Production peaked during the 1940s, when the region supplied Americans with more than 600 million eggs a year. After WWII, the industry headed into a decline. While Petaluma’s egg boom is a thing of the past, the humble egg left its mark and serves as a reminder of the town’s agricultural roots and entrepreneurial spirit.

A Look Back

THE PETALUMA RIVER PUT THE CITY ON THE MAP.

1852

Petaluma is founded on the former site of a Coast Miwok village and shipping depot along the Petaluma River.

1871 1864

Grain merchant and entrepreneur John A. McNear builds a warehouse, marking the start of a family dynasty that will lead economic and civic development in Petaluma for nearly a century.

Experience the Past

1

A SPIRITED STROLL

During the fall and winter, hear spooky tales of tragic fates, dark crimes, and ghostly sightings on a docent-led walking tour.

Go to visitpetaluma.com and download a walking map highlighting downtown’s historical "A" Street District, where architectural styles range from 1860 to 1925. Stroll past Victorian homes, two churches, and even the old Chicken Pharmacy.

2

The Petaluma Historical Library & Museum hosts free exhibits ranging from the stories of California pioneer women to the recent history of the Petaluma River, as well as everything from guest speakers to genealogy workshops.

3

The San Francisco & North Pacific Railroad line starts service from Marin to Santa Rosa with stops in Petaluma, solidifying it as Sonoma County's commercial hub.

To celebrate National Historic Preservation Month each May, local volunteers organize public events, such as a historic scavenger hunt.

4

Visit Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park to tour general Mariano Vallejo's rancho from the mid-1800s.

Petaluma Historical Library & Museum

Experience the historical heart of Petaluma. Marvel at the building’s Neoclassical architecture and stained-glass dome, attend lectures and tours, view artifacts and exhibits, and explore the gift shop. Admission is always free.

petalumamuseum.com

When You're Downtown

WITH ITS HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE, STYLISH SHOPS, MOUTHWATERING EATS, AND WELCOMING ACCOMMODATIONS, DOWNTOWN PETALUMA IS THE PLACE TO BE.

A DOWNTOWN STROLL Downtown is easily walkable. There's plenty of convenient parking, so park your car once and forget about it!

MICHAEL WOOLSEY

Treat Yourself

From serving pieces to home decor, don’t miss these elevated offerings.

Furniture, area rugs, and decorative pillows are on hand at Ceto Home, while i Leoni boasts high-end kitchen goods from Le Creuset and Staub. Vicki’s Secret Designer Consignments offers preloved designer clothing, handbags, and accessories. For those who prefer things that sparkle, Hollingsworth Jewelers Gallery is your place. For more fun finds, Au Thentic wows with a unique selection of artisan leather jackets and sling bags. (It's housed in a historic bank complete with a gilded vault!) Need a new pair of glasses? Head straight to Uber Optics for chic, stylish frames.

INDULGE!

Enjoy a massage or facial at Soft Shell Beauty or book a blowout at Style Bar

Go Local

ROBINDIRA UNSWORTH

This boutique is a showplace for exquisite handcrafted jewelry, plus carefully curated apparel and home decor.

FIBER CIRCLE STUDIO

Shop for high-end yarn and fiber wares from local and small producers, and participate in weaving and embroidery workshops.

SONOMA SPICE QUEEN

Wind McAlister is the spicy mastermind behind this 4th Street shop, home to hand-blended, organic spice mixes and rubs, plus gourmet salts, hot chocolate, and teas.

FLM CERAMICS

Find intricately patterned tiles, bowls, mugs, and vases on-site, and check out the workshops in the adjoining pottery studio.

Robindira Unsworth

Ceto Home

FLM Ceramics

Pennyroyal Design

Green Is Chic

SUSTAINABILITY IS ALWAYS IN STYLE.

Treasure Hunt

PETALUMA ANTIQUE FAIRE

In April and September, downtown transforms into a giant antique marketplace with more than 200 dealers.

Petaluma’s historic downtown is a haven for antique stores, each overflowing with unique finds and vintage must-haves.

Oozing with rustic charm, Summer Cottage Antiques features everything from shabby-chic dressers and ironwork lanterns to elegant chandeliers and earthenware.

Soak in the nostalgia at Yankee Girl Antiques, brimming with ’30s- and ’40s-era furniture, silver vanity sets, and colorful glassware.

Consignment and home furnishings store

PENNYROYAL DESIGN

Peruse sustainably made artisan goods and handcrafted homewares. The shop’s eponymous bags are made using vegetable-tanned leather.

ETHICAL CLOTHING

This conscientious boutique sources clothing from domestic producers and mindful manufacturers and features jewelry made by Petaluma artisans.

ESTUARY

Shop the thoughtful collection of sustainable clothing, home and garden items, and fair-trade and locally made goods. Estuary also donates 1% of profits to Petaluma charities.

With 14,000 square feet and three floors, Sienna Antiques is a wonderland of alabaster jars, vintage instruments, and leather-topped writing desks.

For antiques with military flair and items celebrating postwar prosperity (think hand-painted toys and typewriters with carrying cases), don’t miss The Petaluma Collective Antique and Militaria Mall

The Find-Petaluma seamlessly blends vintage and contemporary items like modern picture frames among midcentury rattan chairs. The Find also hosts an impressive collection of local art.

Chelsea Antiques is home to several independent dealers with items that range from unusual artifacts to ornate furniture.

SHOPPING BREAK

Fuel up with a turmeric latte at Avid Coffee or a cardamom mocha at Grand Central Petaluma Order classic Swedish meatballs or gravlax from the counter at Michelin-recognized Stockhome. Located in a renovated gas station, Acme Burger makes a mouthwatering grass-fed, locally raised beef burger. Pick up grab-and-go salads, grain bowls, and healthy eats from plant-based Lunchette

DOWNTOWN STAYS

Step into the action with a stay at Hotel Petaluma, Hampton Inn Petaluma, or Metro Hotel & Cafe. See page 16 for more accommodations.

Hotel Petaluma

Metro Hotel & Cafe

Hampton Inn Petaluma

Fun Finds

Take a stroll through downtown to find the perfect souvenir. Here’s where to go and what to get.

• Plenty of good reads at Copperfield’s Books

• Unique, Petaluma-branded clothing, toys, and gifts at Heebe Jeebe

• Vintage video games and consoles at Nostalgia Alley

• Toys, games, and books at Poppy's

• “Chick City” local pride tees at Chick City Goods and The Hunter & The Bird

• Board games and puzzles at Goblin Bros.

• Vinyl and turntables at Paradise Found Records & Music

Nostalgia Alley

The Hunter & The Bird

Downtown Petaluma

Historic Downtown Map

Find your way to your favorite spot in Petaluma’s walkable downtown.

Visitors

Petaluma Seed Bank

Even if you’re only a little interested in gardening, a visit to the Petaluma Seed Bank is like hitting the jackpot. The shop’s 1,000-plus varieties of open-pollinated, non-GMO seeds from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds offer everything from tomatoes to flowers, as well as gardening products (including tools for kids) and sustainable living items. The company has always supported the community by carrying local products. Find honey, handmade soaps, pressed-flower cards, hand balms, and even owl boxes, among other thoughtfully curated items.

rareseeds.com/petaluma-seed-bank | G e @petalumaseedbank

i Leoni

Celebrating 20 years in historic downtown, i Leoni is a premier destination for luxury home goods, offering an exquisite collection of kitchenware, tableware, and decor from renowned brands worldwide. With a commitment to quality and sophistication, i Leoni provides discerning customers with a curated selection of premium products to elevate their living spaces.

ileoni.com | G @ileoni | e @ileonipetaluma

Uber Optics

Nancy Revis and her team of optical stylists will help you select the perfect frames and lenses so you will always see life clearly and with impeccable style. Discover why Uber Optics was voted Invision Magazine’s “America’s Finest Optical Retailer” and “Best Optical Boutique of the North Bay” by local newsweekly Bohemian

uberoptics.com G e @uberoptics

Welcome to Crown Hair Salon, located in downtown Petaluma. Collaboration and continued education are what sets the salon apart and holds the art and craft of hairstyling to a higher standard. With its large staff of highly skilled and warm professionals, you’re sure to find the right stylist for you and your family.

crownhairsalon.com e @crownhairsalon

Flower Casita

Known for its farm-to-vase approach, Petaluma florist Flower Casita offers unique and textural floral designs for homes, offices, and events. Flower Casita’s design philosophy emphasizes seasonality, collaborating with local farms and featuring fresh, locally sourced flowers and elements. In addition to its inclusive retail space, Flower Casita provides delivery across the North Bay, full-service wedding packages, and seasonal private workshops.

flowercasita.com e @flowercasita

Keller Street CoWork

More than just a coworking space, Keller Street CoWork is a home base for creative minds. With offerings like community work areas, meeting rooms, private offices, and dedicated desks, you’ll find a workspace designed for you to thrive. Members enjoy the benefits of community and connection through master classes, book clubs, yoga and art classes, social events, and more. Make reservations for a tour (walk-ins welcome, too!) and check it out.

kellerstreetcowork.com e @kellerstreet_cowork G @kellerstreetcowork

The Hunter & The Bird

This charming children’s boutique located in the heart of historic downtown features a collection of carefully curated clothing and gifts. Find everything from colorful rain boots to adorable dresses, hoodies, rompers, and more.

thehunterandthebird.com e thehunterandthebird

Soft Shell Beauty Petaluma

For the ultimate in self-care, relax and rejuvenate at Petaluma’s premier day spa with a massage, customized facial, or other service. Let your radiance shine with makeup and brow artistry by skilled aestheticians. Soft Shell Beauty also carries luxe skin care, essential oils, and candles in their aromatherapy gift boutique.

softshellpetaluma.com | G e @softshellpetaluma

Chick City Goods

Located on Kentucky Street in historic downtown, Chick City Goods is Petaluma’s biggest little clothing nook. This funky shop—the sister store to The Hunter & The Bird—is all about peddling local pride, folklore flair, and good times with Petaluma-inspired stickers, shirts, hats, and other merch. Swing by and see how small-town swag can be big-time fun!

chickcitygoods.com | e @chickcitygoods

Pennyroyal Design

This design studio in downtown Petaluma calls itself a gallery of unusually beautiful things. Shop the thoughtfully curated selection of handcrafted goods—sculptural leather carryalls, minimalist stoneware, handcrafted clothes in natural fibers, distinctive stationary— and discover something you’ll treasure for years to come.

pennyroyaldesign.com e @pennyroyal_design

Vicki’s Secret Designer Consignments

Find Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and more current high fashion on consignment at well below retail, along with personalized service at this chic downtown Petaluma boutique. vickissecret.com e @vickissecretconsignments

Ethical Clothing

Ethical Clothing offers a wellcurated collection of clothing and accessories for women whose desire is to be both chic and comfortable in the clothes they reach for every day. With an emphasis on domestically produced and mindfully manufactured lines, owner and operator Kathy Jeter encourages an appreciation for quality items and classic design.

ethicalclothing-petaluma.com

G @ethicalclothingpetaluma e @ethicalclothing

Alphabet Soup Thrift

Celebrating more than 40 years of supporting local education. Petaluma Educational Foundation (PEF) grant and scholarship programs benefit more than 12,000 students annually.

pefinfo.com

G @ petalumaeducationalfoundation | e @pefproud

Check out the clothing store for apparel and accessories for women, men, and kids, and find furniture, decor, and books at the home store. Alphabet Soup Thrift is operated by the Petaluma Educational Foundation, with proceeds going to local public, private, and charter schools.

alphabetsoupstores.com G @alphabetsoupthriftstore | e @alphabetsoupshops

Choose Your Own Adventure

Whether you’re planning a day on the Petaluma River, a peaceful hike through the hills, or an action-packed day with the kiddos, Petaluma has something for everyone. Get ready to chart your course.

FAMILY TIME Trails abound for all ages and abilities in Petaluma. Turn the page for more.

FLYBYS AND FLAPJACKS

Go plane spotting over breakfast at Two Niner Diner at Petaluma Municipal Airport. (And don't miss the airport's monthly Display Days planes up close and in person!) Turn to page 50 for more family-friendly eats.

No Boring Days!

YOUR FAMILY-FRIENDLY CHECKLIST

Prepare for epic games of paintball, action-packed Nerf battles, and laser tag Playland 707

Hit the ramps and bowls at Lucchesi Skatepark, open to skateboarders of all skill levels.

Saturday nights are buzzing at Petaluma Speedway Snag seats in the grandstand and watch stock cars race on the fastest 3/8-mile oval dirt track in Northern California.

Catch the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) for a low-fuss adventure for young railfans.

• Rancho Obi-Wan houses the world’s largest collection of Star Wars memorabilia. Take the docent-led tour to check out these rare collectibles.

• Feed and pet miniature horses at Stable Acres, home to American Made Miniatures Farm Sanctuary

• For more animal goodness, meet chickens, pigs, and goats at Rusty Hinges Ranch

• Petaluma Wildlife & Natural Science Museum might be the only wildlife center

in the country run by high schoolers. Take a student-led tour to see fossils and artifacts and meet small animal ambassadors.

• Goblin Bros. offers classic board and card games, plus Sunday afternoon board game gatherings that are open to all.

• Take to the river! Rent kayaks or paddleboards from The Floathouse and spend an afternoon on the Petaluma River.

Decipher clues while making memories at Code Zone Petaluma Escape Room

The Floathouse

Rancho Obi-Wan

American Made Miniatures Farm Sanctuary

A Day at the Park

Head to these parks and playgrounds to burn off some energy!

There are six miles of hiking trails and a playground at Helen Putnam Regional Park

To play ball, head to Leghorns Park, which has a playground, shaded picnic areas, ball fields, plus basketball and tennis courts. McNear Park also has two ball fields and a playground, while Prince Park, on the east side of town, has a few ball fields and 20 acres of open space. Also on Petaluma's east side, find turf fields at the Petaluma Community Sports Fields. At nearly 30 acres, there's plenty of room to roam at Lucchesi Park, which also has ball fields and courts. Don't miss Lucchesi's inclusive playground, featuring swings with harnesses, wheelchair-friendly ground cover, and a “cozy dome” for kids who need a break from playground stimulation. Walnut Park has a play area and covered gazebo, and hosts a Saturday afternoon farmers market. And pickleball fans, rejoice! There are several new covered courts at the Petaluma Fairgrounds in the Bianchi Barn.

Helen Putnam Regional Park

Down to the River

How to experience the Petaluma River.

By Ron Evans

A WATERFRONT STAY

Dock your boat at the marina before checking in at the Sheraton Sonoma Wine Country Petaluma

While garnering a deserved amount of praise for the role it played in the city's history and development, the Petaluma River also earns big thumbs up from in-the-know outdoors lovers. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and hydrobiking (yes, aquatic cycling!) all rank high on the list of the do-it-yourself options for experiencing the river upclose; a variety of rentals and lessons make getting out on the water a breeze.

History and conservation paddle tours highlight the river’s storied past and efforts to ensure its bright future (read more on page 23) while moonlight excursions provide opportunities for reflection upon the gentle, glowing ripples. For a change of pace, Dolphin Charters’ small boat cruises take nature enthusiasts and photo buffs from the downtown Turning Basin dock out to San Pablo Bay, allowing ample time to soak in scenery.

Of course, you don't actually need to be on the water to make the most of this peaceful watershed. The river plays backdrop to several can’t-miss events throughout the year including the Rivertown Revival, a two-day affair in July with music acts, local artisans, tasty eats, and even $5 weddings. Santa’s Riverboat Arrival in late November sees Saint Nick and Mrs. Claus greeted by fans and The Nutcracker dancers as they float into town by tugboat. And in December, a fleet of watercraft decked out in twinkling holiday decor shines bright during the nighttime Lighted Boat Parade

Forgot to pack your kayak? In addition to raft, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals, Clavey Paddlesports offers evening bioluminescence tours on nearby Tomales Bay. Up your game with an outing on a water bike, Oar Board SUP rower, or dinghy from The Floathouse. Or, take a tour with Petaluma Stand Up Paddle & Kayak, perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Out in Nature

PREFER DRY LAND? PETALUMA’S PARKS AND TRAILS ARE THE PERFECT OUTDOOR ESCAPE.

Garden Valley Ranch

• Gather your own fresh cut flower bouquet on a stroll through the vibrant, five-acre Garden Valley Ranch.

• Catch glimpses of nearby Mount Tamalpais and Mount Diablo on the 3.2-mile out-and-back stretch at Lafferty Ranch Open Space on the southern flank of Sonoma Mountain.

• Shady oaks and prickly pear cacti greet visitors on the short walk at Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park, the former hub of California general Mariano Vallejo’s agricultural holdings.

• Shollenberger Park’s easygoing, two-mile wetlands loop carries joggers through where more than 230 bird species ride the wind.

• At Tolay Lake Regional Park, a five-mile round trip route via Causeway Trail, climbs some 560 feet from the lake up to views of San Pablo Bay from Three Bridges Vista Point.

HELEN PUTNAM REGIONAL PARK

For the Birds

PETALUMA IS A BIRDWATCHERS PARADISE.

The wetlands at Shollenberger Park (which acts as a natural floodplain for the river) come alive thanks to dozens of native and migratory bird species, including longlegged blue herons and snowy egrets that nest here in spring and summer. Look for loons, pipits, and waxwings on a free monthly docent-led walk (October–June) led by Petaluma Wetlands Alliance. At Helen Putnam Regional Park, keep your eyes peeled for quail, woodpeckers, raptors, and wrens.

Red-shouldered hawk at Shollenberger Park

Shollenberger Park

Named in honor of the city’s first female mayor, Helen Putnam Regional Park packs roughly six miles of trails for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians within 216 acres of native grass and woodlands. Burn those calories with a climb up the 123-step “Stairway to Heaven” on the Panorama Trail. An accessible picnic and playground area and a fishing pond stocked with bluegill provide other ways to play.

Helen Putnam Regional Park

Rooster Run Golf Club

Gentle hills, sprawling oaks, and an island green—the only one of its kind in the area—offer enjoyable challenges with variety between holes. Stock up at the pro shop, and stop by Rooster Run Café for post-round refreshments. Host your tournament at Rooster Run Golf Club. The club’s indoor/outdoor event space and the staff’s attention to detail ensure that your event is flawless and fun. Call 707-778-1211 for more info.

roosterrun.com | G @roosterrun

Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park

Explore Mariano Vallejo’s Petaluma Adobe, once the largest and most prosperous rancho in Mexican Northern California. This California State Historic Park boasts a shaded picnic area and an accessible path to a National Historic Landmark. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day).

2025–2026 Special Events

Fandango: September

Sheep Shearing Day: April

Living History Day: May

California State Parks Week: June

sonomaparks.org parks.ca.gov/petalumaadobeshp

G e @sonomapetalumaparks

G @petalumaadobestatehistoricpark e @petalumaadobeshp

Straight from the Source

IN PETALUMA, RESTAURANTS AND FARMS GO HAND IN HAND. HERE’S WHERE SOME OF THE CITY’S EATERIES SOURCE THEIR PRODUCE.

By Christina Mueller

Table Culture Provisions

Petaluma’s agricultural heritage is perhaps most celebrated at an annual festival named for butter and eggs (the region’s honored agricultural product), but local restaurants cast an eye to the exceptional produce and proteins that emerge from the greater Petaluma food shed. “I like working with local farms like Umbel Roots Farm, Westview Petaluma, and Tara Firm Farms,” says Stéphane Saint Louis, ownerchef of the new Bijou Restaurant as well as Table Culture Provisions (TCP), a Michelin-recommended restaurant in downtown.

The region’s robust network of farms, and the crops that are nourished by local soil, translates to incredible flavor on restaurant tables. Saint Louis adjusts his menu to tell a story of seasonality, where the star of the show could be Marin Roots Farm tender greens and Full Belly Farm asparagus on warm spring days. At TCP, Saint Louis crafts tortellini stuffed with beef cheeks and slices his sirloin whisper-thin for tartare with sunchoke cappuccino, highlighting aged cuts from Flannery Beef. “My breads come from Della Fattoria, just down the street,” Saint Louis says. And while eating local is roughly defined as food grown or made within 100 miles, sourcing from your neighbor is as local, and fresh, as it gets.

On the other side of downtown, Domenico De Angelis, owner-chef at L’Oro di Napoli, which opened in early 2025, uses locally grown ingredients in the handcrafted Italian cuisine his restaurants are known for. That means De Angelis’s house-made pastas and pizzas feature Italian-grown wheat and sauce from San Marzano tomatoes nurtured by the

Campanian sun. But the true Italian flavor of his Neapolitan-driven menu shines brightest in dishes that feature Northern California’s seasonal vegetables. Frittatina di pasta, a Neapolitan dish of fried pasta that De Angelis enjoyed growing up, would not shine as bright without Petaluma-grown spring peas. “Much of Neapolitan food is designed from leftovers,” De Angelis says. “And I can make this dish any time of year with the vegetables of the season.”

Another seasonal menu item is pasta all'Ortolana, a vegetarian ragù made with spring produce. That may include zucchini from Castaneda Farms and one of the many tomato varieties from tomato specialist Windrift Farm. “I change the menu and the vegetables every three to four months,” De Angelis says. “Even the pizzas change.” Pistachio pizza, with Sicilian pistachios and Roman mortadella, gives way to a primavera with fresh basil and Windrift’s cherry tomatoes, or a marinata with a confit of slow-cooked yellow tomatoes playing nice with San Marzanos. As ever, aptly named Regina Margherita is eternal.

Local Is Best

A HAPPY ARRANGEMENT: MEET THE CHEFS AND THE LOCAL FARMS, RANCHES, AND SUPPLIERS THEY SOURCE FROM.

At Stellina Pronto, chef Christian Caiazzo buys green garlic and spring onions from Fiddler’s Green and flours from Central Milling. “Straus Family Creamery provides all our barista milk,” Caiazzo says. Jazmine Lalicker, owner of The Shuckery and Luma Bar & Eatery, sources from Niman Ranch for tender, Iberian pork and just-right flat iron steaks. Roberth Sundell, chef-owner of Stockhome, looks to Wine Forest Wild Foods for ingredients to make his inimitable king trumpet mushroom toast topped with lovage and onion flower.

L’Oro di Napoli

Della Fattoria

Spirited Sips

WHERE TO FIND YOUR NEW FAVORITE COCKTAIL IN PETALUMA.

By Matt Villano

For inventive drinks, belly up to the bar at The Big Easy underground restaurant and nightclub, Luma Bar & Eatery, Brixx Pizzeria, and Mario & John’s, an old-school dive bar. Brewsters Beer Garden has a robust cocktail program. It's the handiwork of master mixologist Cappy Sorentino, who describes the program as “technique driven but approachable.”

A recent drink featured The Famous Grouse whiskey, honey liqueur, and banana.

Zero-Proof

Mocktails are more popular than ever, and these spots are mixing up some seriously good N/A sips. Luma Bar & Eatery serves shrubs and sodas that change with the season, while The Shuckery specializes in V&Ts, a take on gin and tonics using fresh celery juice. At Brewsters Beer Garden, sip cans of N/A Mexican Cerveza, Hazy IPA, and IPNA from Petaluma’s own Lagunitas around a cozy firepit.

HQ: Petaluma

These food companies call Petaluma home.

Amy’s Kitchen, the organic packaged-foods pioneer; Rosie Organic Chicken, whose farming practices have never sacrificed quality; Cowgirl Creamery, known for its triple cream Mt Tam cheese; and Spring Hill Jersey Cheese, with a legendary Petaluma Gold brand cheddar that has inspired countless imitators.

Fuel Up

Here’s where to get your morning caffeine.

Locavore Finds

MARKETS AND FARM STANDS WORTH THE VISIT.

• Pink Owl Coffee: Organic, fair-trade coffee beans sourced worldwide

• Petaluma Coffee and Tea Co.: House blends, fair-trade beans, and loose-leaf teas from around the globe

• Avid Coffee: Espresso drinks, plus keto- and paleo-friendly sips

• Stellina Pronto: Classics like cappuccinos, macchiatos, and other Italian-inspired goodness

• Caffeine Inc: Pastries and avocado toast, plus your favorite cup of joe

Savvy shoppers head to the Petaluma Walnut Park Farmers’ Market for fresh produce, gourmet cheeses, and artisan crafts each Saturday, 2 to 5 p.m., midMay through November. Don't miss the lively, friendly vibe of the Petaluma East-Side Farmers’ Market, home to more than 20 vendors, Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m, year-round. Petaluma’s 250-acre Tara Firma Farms delivers pasture-raised meats right to the front door of Bay Area residents between San Jose and Healdsburg. High quality, nutritious foods are the name of the game at Jupiter Foods, a socially responsible specialty grocer showcasing regional and global craft foods with an emphasis on small producers.

Jupiter Foods

Brewsters Beer Garden

Lumas Bar & Eatery

Cowgirl Creamery

Stellina Pronto

WELCOME BACK!

Petaluma’s well-loved Quinua A Taste of Peru restaurant has made a grand return in a new location after closing its doors in early 2024. Now located along Washington Street, this new incarnation features plenty of local favorites, like paella and ceviche.

Quinua A Taste of Peru

Grand Central Petaluma

Jupiter Foods

Good Eats All Around

No matter where you are in Petaluma, a delicious meal is just around the corner. Check out these beloved local spots.

At Volpi’s Ristorante, tuck into a hearty plate of eggplant Parmesan and save room for a slice of JM Rosen’s New York cheesecake. For more Italian flavors, Caffe Giostra is a cozy lunch spot, while family owned Alfredo’s Italian Restaurant whips up southern European favorites like seafood linguine and pasta Bolognese. Savor globally inspired meals at Pearl (Middle Eastern), Real Döner (Turkish), Fantasy Restaurant (Cantonese), The Canton (Chinese), and Simmer Vietnamese Kitchen

If you’re dining with a group, there are quite a few guaranteed crowd-pleasers, no matter the ages in your party. Pete’s Henny Penny has been serving huge portions of comfort food since 1971. Satisfy your barbecue cravings at Lombardi’s Deli, where hearty sandwiches, tri-tip, ribs, and all the fixings await. Beyond the Glory is the place to go to catch the big game and nosh on its classic bar food

TASTE OF P-TOWN

Every February, Petaluma restaurants participate in Sonoma County Restaurant Week a food extravaganza featuring special prix-fixe menus.

offerings, while Pub Republic puts a creative spin on pub grub (barbecue pork belly burger, anyone?). Speaking of burgers, Acme Burger is known for its juicy, locally raised beef burgers with toppings like Point Reyes blue cheese. (You are in Petaluma, after all!) And who doesn’t love Mexican food? Don Pancho’s has been serving Mexican cuisine since 2000, so you know it’s good.

On the east side of town, the cheery Petaluma Sunshine Cafe serves classic breakfast dishes all day, plus lunch and dinner. Enjoy bellinis and American comfort fare at Cafe Bellini (and don't miss the daily happy hour). Indulge at Cafe Mimosa’s bottomless mimosa brunch (weekends only). Cheers!

Pub Republic Acme Burger

Cafe Mimosa

Morning Bites

From eggy classics to elevated fare, breakfast is served.

Grab a bite at The Bagel Mill, where the sourdough bagel sandwiches are made with wheat milled on-site. Sip coffee and enjoy pastries from Costeaux, in the heart of downtown.

Tea Room Cafe serves elevated fare, like croissant egg sandwiches and potato pancakes. Sax’s Joint whips up 1950s diner eats, including French toast slices made with cinnamon challah bread. Fuel up with a breakfast panini from Aqus Cafe Foundry Wharf. Country skillets, scrambles, and hash are on order at Hallie’s

Diner. For scratch-made, organic breakfast, there’s locally beloved Eggspresso Cafe. Try the ricotta toast with salty-sweet pecans and a seasonal mimosa at Della Fattoria’s downtown cafe. Good luck choosing from the pastry case at Sarmentine, an organic French bakery here the breads are made daily, from scratch. Pick one of everything!

Six Standout Meals

YOU CAN'T GO WRONG WITH THESE DISHES!

LUNCHETTE

Order the tahini bowl with organic brown rice, chickpeas, veggies, and spices galore.

STOCKHOME

It’s all about the Swedish meatballs—served with mashed potatoes, pickled cucumber, and lingonberry jam—at this counter-service fave.

WILD GOAT BISTRO

Despite an entirely spot-on menu, the bistro’s quinoa sweet-potato cakes with brussels sprout slaw and lemon tahini are extra special.

AYAWASKA RESTOBAR

Head here for Peruvian plates (everything from vegan ceviche to lomo saltado, Peruvian-style beef tenderloin) overlooking the river.

SAKE 107

The 107 Special, a sushi roll of shrimp tempura, crab, and garlic-laced eggplant wrapped with thinly-sliced avocado, is out of this world.

TORTILLA REAL

Go for the carnitas and carne asada tacos; and don’t forget the guac and house-made chips. Bonus: The corn tortillas are made fresh daily.

Sarmentine

Tortilla Real

The Bagel Mill

Happy Meals

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE THOSE TRIED-AND-TRUE FAVORITES

Build your own sandwich at Ray’s Delicatessen and Tavern, or opt for one of their specialty creations like the ham and Brie. In the Theatre District, join the line of hungry locals at Sol Food for Puerto Rican favorites like tostones and pollo al horno. Stop into either of Mi Pueblo’s two locations for Mexican bites like quesadillas, tacos, and burritos. If nigiri, sashimi, or a roll is what you’re craving, don’t miss Fuji Sushi. For more Asian fare, there’s Pho Sonoma Vietnamese Cuisine and Soban Korean Cuisine

Come hungry to Brewsters Beer Garden for barbecue and brisket, plus a kids' play area (and 20-plus beers on tap and duck-fat shoestring fries for the parents!). If it's pizza night, try Hank's for wood-fired pizzas, Old Chicago Pizza’s pepperonitopped classic, Stonework Pizza & Tap’s stonefired creations, or Mary’s Pizza Shack.

It’s a Date

PETALUMA HAS THE PERFECT TABLE JUST FOR TWO.

At Speakeasy, share small plates and sip a flute of bubbles in an oh-so-cozy setting (there are only 20 seats inside). Celebrate a special occasion at Brigitte Bistro, where classic French dishes are served in a romantic setting. Sugo Trattoria serves Italian-inspired plates with a California twist. The menu changes often at Street Social, a tiny spot with big flavors.

Authentic Italian dishes and a warm, convivial atmosphere go hand in hand at Risibisi Petaluma’s bounty is the showstopper at Central Market, which features local ingredients in its fresh starters, handmade pastas, and hearty mains. Go all out and reserve a table at splurge-worthy Table Culture Provisions for seasonal comfort food in an intimate setting.

Sol Food

Central Market

Table Culture Provisions

Fuji Sushi

Pho Sonoma Vietnamese Cuisine

Old Chicago Pizza

Save Room for Dessert

Petaluma’s sweets game is tantalizingly stellar.

If you have a sweet tooth, you're in the right place. Head to Petaluma Pie Company for a slice of a classic flavor, like lemon meringue, coconut cream, and pecan, or the Elvis-inspired pies filled with peanut butter and bananas. Travel to South America with just one bite of Grand Central Petaluma’s sweet guava- and cream cheese-filled empanadas, or select from dozens of unique chocolate confections. For those in need of ice cream,

there are two Angela’s Organic Ice Cream locations (opt for a classic sundae or a mini “crack” pie). At Sweet Scoops Homemade Ice Cream, go for a helping of Alota Choco-lata. And for more cool treats, Once Upon A Slush doles out fabulous frozen drinks like slushies, floats, shakes, and frappes, plus treats like affogato and layered slush and softserve combos.

has its own wine-growing region. Turn to page 53 to learn more about the Petaluma Gap AVA

Angela's Organic Ice Cream

Petaluma Pie Company Once Upon A Slush

Distilling Excellence

BEER ISN'T THE ONLY THING BEING BREWED IN P-TOWN. DISCOVER THESE CRAFT DISTILLERIES, TOO. —M.V.

The family-owned Griffo Distillery, on Scott Street near Lagunitas and Henhouse, distills several spirits including gin, whiskey, vodka, coffee liqueur, and mixers. Make time for a tour and tasting, where you can “meet” a 320-gallon copper pot still named Betty before heading to the barrel room for a tasting. There’s a tasting bar open Thursday through Sunday, as well.

Closer to downtown, in a brick building that was erected in 1910, Barber Lee Spirits specializes in hard-tofind spirits such as single-malt rye, moonshine, absinthe, heirloom corn bourbon, apple brandy, and rum. After each distillation, owners Aaron Lee and Lorraine and Michael Barber send all the spent grains from their whiskey mash to local farmers to feed cows and pigs.

Brew Town USA

PETALUMA IS HOME TO DOZENS OF CRAFT BREWERIES AND TAPROOMS— SEVERAL OF WHICH HAVE ACHIEVED NATIONAL ACCLAIM.

By Matt Villano

Long known for its prominent position in the regional grain milling industry, Petaluma now leverages grains for something different: beer. Without question, the two most famous local breweries are on the east side of Highway 101: Lagunitas Brewing Company and Henhouse Brewing Co. Palace of Barrels. Lagunitas, which started on a kitchen stove, now comprises a huge brewery, complete with a restaurant, grassy knoll, and an outdoor stage for live music concerts in summer. Henhouse, whose Palace of Barrels is across the street, is more boho chic— there are couches, bookshelves, and food trucks that park out front on weekends. Both have dozens of beers on tap, and both attract festival-like queues for new releases.

Downtown, several taprooms give different vibes. Crooked Goat Brewing is a modern taproom in an old warehouse with concrete floors and exposed ceiling beams. Adobe Creek Brewing, in the Theatre District, is known for its hop-forward suds. North of Washington Street, Brewsters Beer Garden has more than two dozen beers on tap, including some from regional darlings Barrel Brothers

Brewing Company and Seismic Brewing Company. Brewsters also serves beer cocktails (seriously!), and has an inviting outdoor area with firepits and live music several nights a week.

Nearby at TAPS on the River, there are more than 40 beers on tap. Sip and nosh on pub food on a patio overlooking the river. Finally, The Block Petaluma, a food truck park in the shadow of an old grain elevator, has a beer garden with 30 microbrews on tap, plus a rotating calendar of events and live music. Shaded, wooden seating makes this an excellent place to spend an afternoon.

Betty, the copper pot at Griffo Distillery

Crooked Goat Brewing

Lagunitas Brewing Company

Brewsters Beer Garden

Sips and Pours in Petaluma

Home to the Petaluma Gap AVA, Petaluma's wine scene includes urban tasting rooms and bucolic winery experiences.

Oenophiles know that soil and terroir affect how a wine tastes. But wind and fog? They matter, too!

The 200,000-acre Petaluma Gap AVA, which runs between Marin and Sonoma counties, is defined by its wind and fog conditions. Here, a combination of morning and afternoon fog, midday sun, daily temperature swings of 40 to 50 degrees, and a 15-mile

wind gap are excellent growing conditions for pinot noir, chardonnay, and syrah. Cool breezes and fog blowing in from the Pacific Ocean cause longer hang time, which allows fruit characteristics to fully develop. Here’s where to sip.

DOWNTOWN TASTES

BARBER CELLARS

Pair local wines with cheese, fondue, and charcuterie from the Petaluma Cheese Shop.

SONOMA PORTWORKS

Make a reservation for a tasting of ports and after-dinner wines.

BROOKS

NOTE WINERY

Savor Petaluma Gap pinots in a bright, airy space, and check the calendar for live music.

ADOBE ROAD

WINERY

Enjoy tastings at this family- and pet-friendly spot with live music.

VINE & BARREL

It’s easy to while away an afternoon at this bottle shop and wine bar. Order tapas and a few glasses of wine before a short walk to dinner nearby.

LA DOLCE VITA WINE LOUNGE

Nosh on a cheeseboard and marinated olives with a flight of wine. The perfect afternoon does exist!

AVINAGE WINES

Pop by Avinage every Thursday afternoon for the free weekly tasting. The owners know their stuff, so ask questions and try something new.

MONTAGNE RUSSE

Enjoy good tunes and sips at this new spot that’s part wine tasting room and part record shop.

WINERY SIPS

PARUM LEO

Enjoy a tasting at this estate winery, housed in a renovated hay barn.

KELLER ESTATE

Book the Plaza Tasting for an introduction to Petaluma Gap AVA wines.

RON NOBLE WINES

Begin with a glass of pinot, walk through the vineyard, and enjoy a guided tasting.

SANGIACOMO FAMILY WINES

This Sonoma-based winery sources from five vineyards in the region, including Petaluma Gap AVA vineyards.

AZARI VINEYARDS

Sip estate-grown Petaluma Gap pinot noir and syrah.

REIS RIVER RANCH VINEYARDS

This working horse and cattle ranch offers a tasting tour of the property’s wetlands, ancient oak trees, and pastures.

KARAH ESTATE VINEYARD

Book the reserve or estate tasting at this picturesque vineyard (weekends only).

Keller Estate

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. Visit our tasting rooms and ask for Petaluma Gap wines at your favorite wine shops and restaurants. Learn more at petalumagap.com.

petalumagap.com/taste-the-gap  | G e @petalumagap

Brooks Note Winery

Brooks Note Winery was established in 2012 by Garry and Joanne Brooks, who make balanced, elegant wines from Sonoma, Mendocino, and Marin county grapes. The tasting room, set in a renovated 100-year-old building in downtown, offers upscale tastings of wines from the Petaluma Gap and beyond. Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Reservations are recommended.

brooksnotewinery.com G e @brooksnotewinery

Avinage

Avinage was established by husband-and-wife team Damien and Shree Carney, who sought to open a neighborhood store and local hub for all things wine. Find a curated portfolio of California and European wines, with a focus on small-production makers using sustainable, low-intervention practices. Weekly Thursday tastings, 4 to 7 p.m., showcase a local or regional winemaker.

avinagewines.com | e @avinagewines

Marin French Cheese Co.

French tradition meets California vision at the country’s oldest cheese company, operating since 1865. Visit the historic creamery and retail shop for delicious soft-ripened cheese and everything else you need to enjoy a picnic on the scenic grounds. Open daily.

marinfrenchcheese.com G @marinfrenchcheesecompany | e @marinfrenchcheese

Montagne Russe

Petaluma recently welcomed its newest wine destination, Montagne Russe (French for “roller coaster”). Founded by Kevin Bersofsky, owner and winemaker, this wine tasting lounge specializes in pinot noir, chardonnay, and syrah from local regions such as the Petaluma Gap AVA. Come for a glass, a bottle, or a full tasting, and enjoy the space’s retro feel, including more than 3,000 vinyl records for sale.

russewines.com e @montagne_russe_wines G @montagnerussewines

Brigitte Bistro Petaluma

From Europe to Northern California, chef Nick Ronan brings his culinary talents and gregarious personality to Petaluma with Brigitte Bistro. Named in honor of his mother, this elegant, eclectic, and intimate restaurant reflects Chef Ronan’s passion for food, wine, and warm hospitality. The menu masterfully incorporates French influences and the local bounty and is accompanied by a curated selection of wines from France and Sonoma County. Brigitte Bistro is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday; call 707-981-8381 for reservations.

brigittebistropetaluma.com

Enjoy traditional Mexican dishes made with heart. The Flores brothers’ secret is using the family traditions of their native Guadalajara to prepare handmade, slow-cooked carne asada, carnitas, birria, lengua, chicken tinga, and beerbattered pescado Vegetarian dishes feature the same attention to detail and quality ingredients as meat dishes on the menu.

,

Brewsters Beer Garden

This spacious outdoor restaurant in downtown Petaluma serves locally sourced cuisine and features a full bar offering craft beers, seasonal cocktails, and natural wines. Brewsters Beer Garden is the perfect spot for a special event, with amenities including a large firepit, private events bar, heaters, shade umbrellas, live music in season, and much more to keep the party going.

brewstersbeergarden.com G e @brewstersbeergarden

Stockhome

Eat well and discover treasures at this family-owned eatery and retail shop. A Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, Stockhome serves modern Swedish and Mediterranean dishes with flair. In the store, browse the selection of household wares, wellness essentials, gifts, and other unique finds made by local artisans and designers.

stockhomerestaurant.com G e @stockhomepetaluma

Cucina Paradiso

Family-owned Cucina Paradiso is an elegantly traditional slice of Italy, with gracious hospitality and an excellent wine list from Italy and Sonoma County. Chef-owner Dennis Hernandez creates everything from scratch, including fresh pastas, desserts, and bread, using only the finest ingredients.

cucinaparadisopetaluma.com

Della Fattoria

For more than 30 years, Della Fattoria and the Weber family have been baking organic, handcrafted breads that have become a staple across the greater Bay Area. Today, the beloved downtown Petaluma cafe offers more than just incredible bread. Enjoy a thoughtfully curated breakfast and lunch menu built on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Savor house-made pastries, sip on expertly crafted coffee, and browse a vibrant selection of fresh flowers, all within a warm, community-centered space. Visit Della Fattoria Thursday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find Della Fattoria’s signature breads daily at Petaluma Market, Whole Foods Market Petaluma, and select local restaurants.

dellafattoria.com | G e @dellafattoria

Old Chicago Pizza

Old Chicago Pizza has been serving up delicious deep-dish pizza for more than 40 years. Enjoy the views from the eatery in historic downtown. The second location on North McDowell offers delivery and pickup, with sit-down availability.

oldchgo.com G @oldchgo | e @oldchicagopizza

Angela’s Organic Ice Cream

Sweeten your day with a treat from Angela’s Organic Ice Cream, serving up farm-tocone, small-batch ice cream churned in Sonoma County. Stop by the shop in downtown or in east Petaluma and choose from hefty scoops in classic and creative flavors, decadent sundaes, and pints to go—plus cookies, brownies, and other homemade baked goodies.

angelasicecream.com e @angelas_icecream

Central Market

Savor farm-to-table fare grown right here in Sonoma County at Central Market. Chef and owner Tony Najiola sources ingredients for the Mediterranean-inspired menu from his own organic Muleheart Farm. A curated selection of wines, beers, and cocktails complements the excellent food and relaxing atmosphere.

centralmarketpetaluma.com G @cmpetaluma | e @central_marketpetaluma

Grand Central Petaluma

This family-owned cafe on the Petaluma River offers a diverse mix of flavors and cultures. Juan Carlos and Natalie Vinueza share their passion for high-quality food, exceptional hospitality, and community, providing an authentic experience for both locals and visitors. The cafe is located in a historic building with stunning views of the Petaluma River.

grandcentralpetaluma.com | G e @grandcentralpetaluma

Avid Coffee

For Avid, coffee and community is their passion, and they’re immersed in the whole process. From sourcing partners to roasting to reinvesting in the community, Avid sees coffee as a transformative opportunity to make the most of a daily ritual. Experience this passion for coffee at the shop in downtown.

avidcoffee.com e @avidcoffeeroasters

Sarmentine

Experience the art of French baking at Sarmentine, Petaluma’s newest organic French bakery. Savor handcrafted croissants, delicate pastries, and artisan breads made with traditional levain and long fermentation. Enjoy rich coffee and a delicious brunch in a warm, welcoming cafe. Visit today for an authentic taste of France. Sarmentine is open daily.

sarmentine.com G e @sarmentine

Top row from left: Flourish; Cravins Candy

Middle row from left: Flora Luna Apothecary; Three Sisters Apothecary; Vanda Floral Design

Bottom row from left: Vibe Gallery; Fiber Circle Studios

Culture Maker

FROM HANDMADE WARES TO INNOVATIVE ARTIST STUDIOS, PETALUMA HAS A MAKER CULTURE THAT’S ENTIRELY UNIQUE.

Pennyroyal Design

Artisan Hub

Barn5400 is home to an ever-growing number of Petaluma’s artisans and makers including Kickwheel (functional clay wares), Aaseby Studios (“memory map” paintings and drawings), and Rachel Brooks (abstract artworks inspired by Sonoma County). Visit Barn5400 to see artisans at work and try something new: Take a pressed botanical candle workshop at Dolly’s Collective or try fabric printing at Rebecca Saylor Studio. Check out the calendar of events for info on artisan, pop-up markets, and more.

Story Time

Every second Wednesday of the month, West Side Stories Petaluma brings together storytellers at Polly Klaas Community Theater to share their narratives with the audience. Winners reunite for a GrandSlam event at the historic Mystic Theatre each December.

Handmade Goods

Shop these locally made products.

SPLURGE!

From delicate layering chains to herringbone bracelets, Robindira Unsworth’s handcrafted jewelry is made at her Petaluma studio with gems like moonstone, quartz, aquamarine, and labradorite. Need a new carryall? Head to Pennyroyal Design for leather handbags, from crossbody slings to spacious totes.

TREAT YOUR SKIN

In Penngrove, shop Three Sisters Apothecary’s small-batch artisan soaps, body butters, and bath salts. Inventive scents range from Meyer lemon and agave to mission fig and honey. At McEvoy Ranch, shop for rosemary- or citrus-scented

ODE Olive Oil Beauty products made from early-harvest olive oil. Can’t make it out to McEvoy? Visit the downtown Petaluma warehouse outlet.

STYLE YOUR HOME

Trees are transformed into art with Resonate Woodworks’ butcher-block cutting boards, and acacia and resin serving trays. At Ziz Land, Alissa Kaplan’s hand-tied, Shaker-style brooms are also works of art. (Yes, brooms!) Shop indigo print tiles and hand thrown tankards at FLM Ceramics

HEAD ONLINE

Discover Siri Hansdotter’s sculptural jewelry, hand-carved and utilizing ethically sourced materials, at the artist’s virtual store (sirihansdotter.com).

Robindira Unsworth

Three Sisters Apothecary

Dolly’s Collective

FLM Ceramics

Local Tastes

Petaluma’s food and drink artisans bring the flavor.

THE BIG CHEESE

Petaluma Creamery has been churning out European-style butter and blocks of colby jack and smoked gouda (and much more) for over a century. Purchase products online, or visit the old-school creamery. Achadinha Cheese Company offers farm tours and cheesemaking classes (appointments required). And at Marin French Cheese Co., sample Brie and Camembert, grab a baguette and a bottle of local wine, and have a picnic by the lake.

OLIVE OIL, LAVENDER, AND JAMS

Just 15 minutes from downtown, McEvoy Ranch is a 550-acre oasis. Book a wine or olive oil tasting or stroll the grounds on the ranch walking tour. A few miles north, follow the scent of lavender to Lavender Bee Farm, where more than 5,000 lavender plants dot the grounds. Pick up a jar of lavender blossom honey at the store

(open by appointment only). Back downtown, LALA’s Jam Bar and Urban Farmstand offers tastings of its homemade jams and jellies, plus weekly jam-making classes.

SOOTHING SPIRITS

Book a tasting at these Petaluma distilling and drinking establishments: Ports and after-dinner wines at Sonoma Portworks; small-batch spirits (gin, whiskey) at Griffo Distillery; single-malt ryes, moonshine, and absinthe blanche at Barber Lee Spirits; and grappa, brandy, vodka, and gin at Moylan’s Distilling & Stillwater Spirits

DAILY BREAD

Central Milling’s flours and grains may be milled in Utah, but its Petaluma location is home to the Artisan Baking Center where you can take a class in hand-rolled pasta, doughnut making, and more.

It’s a one-stop shop at Angelo’s Meats: house-cured cuts, homemade sauces, and grass-fed beef jerky. F.A. Nino’s hot sauces and dry rubs can be bought online or at local grocery stores.

Art for All

From eye-popping large-scale murals to sculptures like the more than 800 mosaic-set clay faces that cover a Theatre District fountain, you could spend an entire day exploring P-town’s public outdoor artworks. Don’t miss the controversial Fine Balance, two clawfoot bathtubs set on tall poles in downtown’s H Street pocket park.

Mural Town

Petaluma’s vibrant murals are impossible to miss. Check out these public artworks at Petaluma Swim Center, Petaluma Coffee & Tea Co., Keller Street Parking Garage, Copeland Street, and The Phoenix Theater. Share your mural selfies by tagging #visitpetaluma.

GRILL TIME

Marin French Cheese Co.

LALA's Jam Bar and Urban Farmstand

Lavender Bee Farm

Farmhouse

Artisan Market

Farmhouse Artisan Market is a premium source for Northern California craft cannabis. The familyowned market carries a vast selection of products in a variety of categories, from top brands and small, local producers. Not sure where to start? The friendly, knowledgeable staff is ready to offer trustworthy advice.

Farmhouse Artisan Market provides convenient and professional same-day or scheduled delivery. Visit the website at farmhouse.delivery to learn more.

farmhouse.delivery

e @petaluma.farmhouse

McEvoy Ranch

This small, family-owned ranch in Petaluma is known for its award-winning Certified Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Over the past 35 years, the ranch’s portfolio has grown to include ODE Olive Oil beauty products, gourmet culinary fare, and small-lot wines. Join McEvoy Ranch for olive oil and wine tastings, lunch, tours, and events. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; make a reservation at 707-769-4138 or online.

mcevoyranch.com G e @mcevoyranch

Griffo Distillery & Tasting Bar

Griffo Distillery makes award-winning, “scientifically crafted spirits” with incredible flavor. Griffo is best known for the flagship California-style Scott Street Gin (made with Sonoma County-sourced Meyer lemons) and Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur collaboration with Equator Coffees. The Tasting Bar & Barrel Room offers seasonal cocktails, live music with local food trucks, and monthly events like Drag Trivia and D&D Night. Reserve a distillery tour or tasting online.

The Art of Inspiration

Petaluma’s arts and culture scene thinks outside the box.

ARTS ALIVE

Every third Thursday of the month, this citywide art experience includes interactive events across all mediums. petalumadowntown.com

Community-based art hubs continue to pop up across town, bringing artisans of different mediums under one roof, often with open hours and weekly events. Creative collective Slough City Studios has a gallery, studios, workshops, and occasional “art hangs” where you can engage with Petaluma’s creative community. Watch artists perfect their craft during open studio hours at Magic Shop Studios, occupying a converted riverside warehouse. Check the event calendar at Life on Art, a community-focused artmaking program that's headquartered in Petaluma. The Art Hatchery is a collection of studios in an old chicken hatchery (this is as Petaluma as you can get!).

Plan a downtown gallery stroll. Check out the

handmade gifts and rotating exhibits on display at Usher Gallery, while Alchemia supports artists with disabilities. Across the Petaluma River, the 4,500-square-foot Petaluma Arts Center hosts rotating exhibitions, concerts, inspiring workshops, and talks on topics like the history of Petaluma signs. Make your own clay masterpiece at Petaluma Pottery, with workshops for all ages.

On the performing arts front, catch a show at the intimate Cinnabar Theater (currently performing on university campuses while its new, state-of-the-art theater is built). Or, head to the refurbished 100-seat Polly Klaas Community Theater, a former church turned community hub for theatrical plays and musical performances. The Mercury Theater, a couple of miles north of downtown, offers similar entertainment.

Mercury Theater

The Art Hatchery

Cinnabar Theater

Usher Gallery

Try your hand at pottery at Petaluma Pottery.

Savor the Sounds

MUSIC IS AT THE BEATING HEART OF PETALUMA’S VIBRANT CULTURAL SCENE. YOU’LL FIND AN ARRAY OF VENUES CATERING TO LOCAL AND NATIONAL ACTS AND SHOWS THAT TAKE PLACE EVERY NIGHT OF THE WEEK. WITH ANNUAL FESTIVALS CELEBRATING EVERYTHING FROM JUG BANDS TO HOMEGROWN MUSICIANS, CLUBS FEATURING SONGWRITER OPEN MICS AND BIG BAND PERFORMANCES, AND OUTDOOR SPACES WHERE LIVE BANDS ARE PAR FOR THE COURSE, MUSIC AND PETALUMA ARE, QUITE SIMPLY, SYNONYMOUS.

Rivertown Revival

Music Makers

THE SECRET IS OUT: PETALUMA’S MUSIC SCENE IS HOPPING! HERE ARE THREE LOCAL MUSICIANS THAT ARE LEADING THE CHARGE OF PUTTING P-TOWN IN THE SPOTLIGHT.

When I found Petaluma, I just fell in love with it. I dug in my roots. It felt like home.”—Katie Schuch

The Great Incubator

Musician Katie Schuch and her band deliver a unique folk rock sound and plenty of Petaluma love.

APetaluma resident for 25 years, Katie Schuch’s band name, The Incubators, is a nod to the city’s heritage of chicken hatcheries.

“That is very deliberate,” she says. “But also, you incubate your music, your songs, you have a seed of an idea. You nurture it, you feed it, and you sit on it. Then you hatch it. The songs are like eggs, and we’re gonna hatch them.”

Schuch (pronounced “shoe”) and musical partner Chris Chappell have performed together for more than a decade. She calls The Incubators’ music “vocal-driven folk rock.” Their live shows mix covers and original songs.

The Incubators’ first album, released in 2012, is called Must Hatch, after an early 20th-century Petaluma hatchery. Several Incubators songs are about Petaluma, such as “Rivertown.” They even record downtown in a studio under Buffalo Billiards Pool Hall.

Influenced by the improvisational style of the Grateful Dead, The Incubators play as a duet or with up to six members. “As the weather gets warmer, we expand our group and do more full-band shows,” Schuch says.

The song mix is “kind of eclectic, groovy one minute and twangy the next. Then we’ll throw in something more jazzy.”

An East Coast transplant, Schuch reflects on her time in Petaluma fondly. “When I found Petaluma, I just fell in love with it. I dug in my roots. It felt like home.”

It’s All About Soul

With his expressive voice and profound love of music, Sebastian Saint James is a Petaluma powerhouse.

This lifelong Petaluman, Sebastian Saint James, draws his inspiration from rhythm and blues, funk, and country. He calls his music “indie blues soul.”

In Petaluma, he’s busked in American Alley, he's headlined the Mystic Theatre, and this year, he's on the bill for the Petaluma Music Festival.

“When I’m playing in my hometown, I get to be myself and can be as eclectic as I want,” he says. “There are so many talented artists, it helps you step up your game.”

Saint James started playing when he was 21. “[It was] a way to help me get my life together. I don’t know where I would be without it. Music helps me be a better father, a better husband … a better person.”

For many years, he led the Highway Poets. Now, Saint James performs mostly as a solo artist or with his namesake band. He fronts a side project called The Space Orchestra, which covers songs by Joe Cocker and other musicians of that era.

Saint James often performs at wineries and is known for his soulful voice. “I think my voice really came from having to holler at bars all over, and just singing to records that I loved," he says. "It’s me failing miserably at sounding like Ray Charles or Aretha Franklin.”

When I'm playing in my hometown, I get to be myself and can be as eclectic as I want."—Sebastian Saint James

Woman Wonder

From banjo and harmonica to singing and guitar, musician Pamela Joyce does it all.

Describing herself as a Jack (or Jacqueline) of all genres and styles, Pamela Joyce formed the band Foxes in the Henhouse with Dorian Bartley in 2009. It’s an all-woman string band playing everything from bluegrass to pop.

“We just thought it would be great to get some female voices together, which is always such a wonderful sound,” Joyce says. “It started out as a lark, and 16 years later, we’re still going strong.”

Strong, indeed: Foxes in the Henhouse won the 2024 Norbay award for Best Americana Band in Sonoma County.

As a native of Maine who has lived in Petaluma for nearly 40 years, Joyce plays acoustic guitar, mandolin, banjo, and harmonica—and she sings, too. She's also a backup singer in The Space Orchestra and plays in a duo with keyboardist Bob McBain.

“I can’t say no to making music whenever the opportunity comes up,” she says.

Joyce also works as an aesthetician and books the bands performing at the River Front Cafe, overlooking the Petaluma River. “It’s really grassroots ... it's lovely evenings with the whole community coming together to celebrate music,” she says.

“I love doing it. Petaluma has a robust musical community. There’s nothing like it. Sonoma County is full of incredible musicians and great music.”

Joyce has performed for more than half a century and plans to keep on singing. “I’m not ready to hang up my microphone.”

Petaluma has a robust musical community. There's nothing like it."

—Pamela Joyce

Foxes in the Henhouse performs at Griffo Distillery

Listen to the Music

Whether it’s an intimate jazz arrangement, an all-ages punk concert, or a speakeasy-style blues performance, you’ll find it in Petaluma. Here’s where to go.

Built in 1911 as a vaudeville showplace, the Mystic Theatre has hosted legends such as Van Morrison and Brandi Carlile. With a maximum audience of 500, it’s a great place to catch national talent and local artists in an intimate setting.

Built in 1904 as an opera house and known today as “everyone’s building,” The Phoenix Theater attracts a decidedly younger crowd, but on nights when stars like Jack White perform (in 2024), it brings in all ages.

The intimate Big Easy is an underground restaurant and nightclub along downtown’s American Alley. This cozy space features live shows six nights a week, including a songwriters open mic on the first Monday of the month, Wednesday Night Big Band Jazz, and Sunday Funday Blues Jam.

Jump, jive, and wail the first Sunday of each month at downtown’s Hall of the Above Swing dance classes (beginning at 4:15 p.m.) precede a performance by the award-winning San Francisco trio Le Jazz Hot!, complete with an open dance floor.

It’s a Date!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE CAN’T-MISS MUSIC FESTIVALS.

The one-day Petaluma Music Festival (July 26) features over a dozen bands, multiple stages, and a state-of-the-art sound system, all to raise money for music education in Petaluma’s public schools.

Petaluma’s Christmas Jug Band concert has been a December tradition for over 40 years. Expect a mix of original holiday tunes, parodies of unlikely classics, and plenty of washboard riffs.

Sips and Tunes

WHERE TO HAVE A DRINK AND ENJOY LIVE MUSIC

• Lagunitas Brewing Company has an outdoor summer concert series (dog-friendly!).

• Sip pinot noir and chardonnay while enjoying performances at Adobe Road Winery and Brooks Note Winery.

• Brewsters Beer Garden hosts musical acts Thursday through Sunday evenings.

• Enjoy open mics, trivia nights, and live bands, plus food truck and a beer garden, at The Block Petaluma

GIN JAM

Every Thursday night, don't miss Live Open Jam & Happy Hour at the Scott Street Gin Jam at Griffo Distillery.

Mardi Gras Mambofest celebrates winter Carnival season Petaluma-style, starting with an exuberant evening street parade to and from the Mystic Theatre, where the party is just beginning.

Now in its 22nd year, the Art & Garden Festival (held each July) attracts revelers to downtown. Enjoy live music on two stages while savoring local food and drinks. BRowse the booths featuring art, home decor, and jewelry for every budget and taste, and gather gardening tips from experts.

• Overlooking the Petaluma River, River Front Cafe hosts live music on select nights.

• Score a seat on the patio for live tunes every Thursday evening at Luma Bar & Eatery

• Belt out your best Pearl Jam impersonation at Willowbrook Ale House’s karaoke nights. The casual bar and eatery hosts live bands, as well.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

When temperatures rise, local musicians often take it outside. Look (or listen!) for them in spots like Putnam Plaza and Theatre Square, in the heart of downtown, and at the Walnut Park Farmers’ Market

The Big Easy

Mystic Theatre

Luma Bar & Eatery

picture-perfect

A Walk Down the Aisle

Discover Petaluma's dreamy wedding venues.

With its rolling hills, open pastures, elegant wineries, and historic architecture, Petaluma is an ideal spot to host your wedding. Picturesque venues range from a downtown historic bank building with vaulted ceilings to a 600acre working cattle and horse ranch and wildlife sanctuary, with bucolic oak groves overlooking the Petaluma River. Whether you dream of exchanging vows in an intimate garden setting, at

a legendary music venue, or surrounded by rolling vineyards, Petaluma has the perfect place for you and your guests! The city is within easy reach from San Francisco, Oakland, and Santa Rosa airports, and features a variety of accommodations for all tastes and budgets.

For more information on venues and wedding vendors, head to visitpetaluma.com/petaluma-meetings-venues.

Meetings & Events

A Place to Gather

FROM COUNTRY CLUBS TO HISTORIC LOCALES, THERE ARE MANY UNIQUE SPACES AND PLACES TO MEET IN PETALUMA. SEE VISITPETALUMA.COM/ PETALUMA-MEETINGS-VENUES FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF VENUES.

FLYING CLOUD FARM

Events are held in gardens with pretty views. flyingcloudfarm.com

GARDEN

VALLEY RANCH

Rose gardens make for a romantic wedding setting. gardenvalley.com

HALL OF THE ABOVE

Once a historic bank, this space accommodates 250 guests. halloftheabove.com

HAWKWOOD HILL FARM

This equestrian facility is ideal for unique events.

HERMANN SONS HALL

PETALUMA #26

This private social club has a large hall, stage, and on-site kitchen. caodhs.org

KELLER STREET

COWORK

Private offices, desks, and conference rooms ensure a productive day's work. kellerstreetcowork.com

MENTOR ME

CAVANAGH RECREATION CENTER

Rent the gym at this rec center and event space. wearementorme.org

MYSTIC THEATRE

Take to the stage at a renovated 1911 vaudeville theater, with state-ofthe-art sound and digital projection. mystictheatre.com

OLYMPIA’S VALLEY

Family-owned and -operated, this farmstead hosts corporate events. olympiasvalley.com

PETALUMA ADOBE STATE HISTORIC PARK

For a dose of history, consider this 1830s historic building. There’s also a large picnic area for gatherings. parks.ca.gov

PETALUMA ARTS CENTER

Add a splash of color to your next event at the Arts Center, which features a classroom for meetings and workshops, plus a gallery that doubles as an art-filled backdrop. petalumaartscenter.org

PETALUMA COMMUNITY CENTER

This multi-purpose facility has a fully equipped commercial kitchen. cityofpetaluma.org/ departments/parksrecreation

PETALUMA ELKS LODGE #901

Amenities here include a full bar, commercial

kitchen, and outdoor barbecue patio area. elks901.org

PETALUMA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Play a round on the ninehole golf course before heading to the on-site banquet hall. petalumagolfand countryclub.com

PETALUMA-HAMILTON #180 MASONIC LODGE

Built in 1881, this historic space has a meeting room and dining room. masons180.org

PETALUMA HISTORICAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM

An architectural wonder, this historical setting is in the heart of downtown. petalumamuseum.com

PETALUMA PARKS

Choose from several large parks with reservable picnic areas. cityofpetaluma.org/ parks-open-space-areas

PETALUMA REGIONAL LIBRARY

Get straight to business in meeting spaces with free Wi-Fi. sonomalibrary.org

Petaluma Community Center

PETALUMA VETERANS MEMORIAL BUILDING

With plenty of space, this venue has a large commercial kitchen and spacious parking lot. sonomacounty.ca.gov

PETALUMA WOMAN’S CLUB

Dating to 1913, this structure has a stage, kitchen, and historic details. petalumawomans club.com

THE PHOENIX THEATER

Host your meeting in a creative space known for its colorful rock ‘n' roll history. thephoenixtheater.com

POLLY KLAAS COMMUNITY THEATER

The 100-seat theater is perfect for intimate gatherings. pollyklaastheater.org

ROOSTER RUN GOLF CLUB AND EVENT CENTER

Choose from indoor and outdoor spaces with full-service catering. roosterrun.com

ROSEWOOD EVENTS

SCAN HERE for more detailed information on event venues.

At Rosewood, dreamy events meet exquisite views. rosewoodevent.com

RUSTY HINGES RANCH

Rustic barns and a poolside fountain are a few of the ranch's unique amenities. rustyhingesranch.com

PETALUMA FAIRGROUNDS

Prime amenities include 55 landscaped acres and easy freeway access. cityofpetaluma.org

SPRING HILL ESTATE

Enjoy nearly 300 acres, a guesthouse, and panoramic hilltop vistas. facebook.com/ marinevents/

WALKER CREEK RANCH CONFERENCE CENTER

Find inspiration along the trails, or in the 1914 barn and amphitheater. walkercreekranch.org

Petaluma Arts Center

Home Is Where the Heart Is

The things that make Petaluma such a great place to visit also make it a great place to live.

START WITH THE LOCATION. If you draw a circle on a map of Northern California, Petaluma is right in the center. Perfectly positioned, Petaluma is in Sonoma County wine country, and is conveniently located near San Francisco’s big-city vibes. (Turn to page 12 for more.)

OUTDOOR RECREATION AND SPECTACULAR SCENERY ARE ALSO NEARBY. Bodega Bay is a half hour to the west, while NorCal’s majestic redwoods are to the north and south (p. 14).

THE CITY OF PETALUMA IS JUST THE RIGHT SIZE. The city is self-contained, offering residents everything they need for an exceptional quality of life—not to mention a passion for sustainability (p. 10).

GET MOVING Find more info at visitpetaluma.com/ relocation-resources

BUT THE REAL HEART OF PETALUMA SPEAKS TO SOMETHING MUCH DEEPER. If you ask a resident what makes Petaluma such a great place to live, you’ll probably hear about the city’s strong sense of community and generous spirit. This is a place to put down roots.

“Communities are made by nesters—those who settle, and in settling come to deeply know, love, and care for the place they have settled into.”

–John Sheehy, Petaluma historian and author, On a River Winding Home: Stories and Visions of the Petaluma River Watershed

Madelyn Hecker madelyn@doughecker.com DRE 02203509

G @madelynhecker

e @madelyn.heckercbrealty

Doug Hecker doug@doughecker.com DRE 01347843 G @doughecker e @hecker_doug

Coldwell Banker

Realty

Welcome home to Petaluma! With a passion for real estate and a commitment to paramount service, Doug Hecker and Madelyn Hecker are your dedicated real estate professionals, bringing more than 25 years of combined experience to the table. As lifelong Petaluma residents, they’re driven by a genuine desire to help people find their perfect home and achieve their investment goals. They understand that real estate transactions are not just about properties—they’re about people, dreams, and futures.

doughecker.com

Cozza Team at Compass

We get it. Real estate can feel overwhelming. Imagine if you had a team of local experts managing every detail? That’s the Cozza Team difference. They work with the No. 1 brokerage Compass and have exclusive access to off-market and coming soon listings, plus strategies to secure your best price, always. And with 100+ five-star reviews, you know you’re in good hands. Elevate and modernize your real estate journey.

cozzateam.com | G e @cozzateam

Jeanette Cozza

REALTOR® | DRE 01523184

hello@cozzateam.com

Katie Vormelker

REALTOR® | DRE 02190840 katie@cozzateam.com

Kelly Valera REALTOR® | DRE 02129747 kelly@cozzateam.com

Steven Cozza

REALTOR® | DRE 01915699 steven@cozzateam.com

head into town

Getting Here

Thanks to its central location, Petaluma is easy to reach from throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

BY PLANE

Petaluma is 1 to 1.5 hours away from four international airports: Oakland Airport (OAK, 52 miles), San Francisco International Airport (SFO, 52 miles), Sacramento International Airport (SMF, 85 miles), and San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC, 84 miles). Plus, there are two local airports: Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS, 25 miles) and Petaluma Municipal Airport

BY FERRY

If you’re heading into town from San Francisco, take the Larkspur Ferry from the terminal located behind the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero and arrive at the Larkspur Ferry Terminal. From here, you can hop on the SMART train, a short walk or shuttle ride from the ferry terminal, to be dropped off in downtown.

BY TRAIN

The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) is a great way to get to Petaluma and to explore Sonoma and Marin counties. The line stretches north to Windsor and south to Larkspur, with plenty of stops along the way, including right in the heart of Petaluma. (See page 12 for where to explore nearby.)

BY CAR

Located along Highway 101, Petaluma is a breeze to get to by car. From San Francisco, take the 101 north until you arrive in Petaluma. From Sacramento, take I-80 west before connecting with Lakeville Highway. Lakeville will put you right into downtown. And from the East Bay Area, take I-580 west toward Oakland and over the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge before merging with the 101.

Arrive at the downtown stop, one of two SMART train stations in Petaluma.

SCAN HERE

Discover even more Petaluma events!

January LumaCon lumacon.net

Save the Date!

Share in the community spirit at these annual events. Head to visitpetaluma.com/find-events to find all events.

February Sonoma County Restaurant Week socorestaurantweek.org

April

Butter & Egg Days Parade & Festival petalumadowntown.com

Spring Antique Faire petalumadowntown.com

May

Film Fest Petaluma petalumafilmalliance.org

Salute to American Graffiti Car Show americangraffiti.net

June

Movies in the Park (through Oct.) cityofpetaluma.org

Petaluma Fair cityofpetaluma.org/fair

July

Independence Day Fireworks Celebration cityofpetaluma.org

Art & Garden Festival petalumadowntown.com

Rivertown Revival rivertownrevival.com

Petaluma Music Festival petalumamusicfestival.org

September

Petaluma River Craft Beer Festival petalumarivercraftbeerfest.org

All Hallow’s Art Fest halloweenfolkartsociety.com

Fall Antique Faire petalumadowntown.com

October

Clo Cow Half Marathon, 10K, 5K clocowhalf.com

El Día de los Muertos Petaluma

G El Día de los Muertos Petaluma

Hallowen Trick or Treat Trail petalumadowntown.com

November

Veterans Day Parade & Flyover petalumaveteransparade.com

Santa’s Riverboat Arrival petalumadowntown.com

Small Business Saturday petalumadowntown.com

December

Merchant Holiday Open House petalumadowntown.com

Lighted Boat Parade petalumadowntown.com

Gingerbread House Showcase & Competition hotelpetaluma.com

October is a prime time to visit Petaluma, with a bevy of activities to impress every type of ghoul and goblin. Don your best costume for The Floathouse's Witches & Wizards on the Water community paddle. Enjoy an annual Petaluma Cemetery Walk in the company of some of this final resting place’s finest residents. And take in the creativity of carved pumpkins galore at Tara Firma Farms’ Pumpkins on Pikes

Artistry Unleashed

FOR THE PERFECT NIGHT OUT, CHECK OUT ARTS ALIVE.

Held on the third Thursday of each month, this citywide celebration features artist talks and demos, poetry readings, and interactive experiences like create-yourown art stations and pressure-free storytelling. All events are within walking distance, so grab a drink beforehand, stroll a few exhibits, and end the night with dinner downtown. petalumadowntown.com

Rivertown Revival

Sonoma County Restaurant Week

Hampton Inn Petaluma

Located in a historic silk mill that is an integral part of Petaluma’s rich history, Hampton Inn Petaluma combines modern amenities with local charm in a boutique setting. The property features 75 guest rooms, including eight spacious suites, all designed for comfort and convenience. The friendly and attentive staff provides a memorable guest experience. Each room is equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, mini fridges, coffee makers, and signature Hampton beds to ensure a restful stay.

Start your day with a complimentary breakfast before exploring downtown Petaluma or venturing out for a delightful day of wine tasting in the surrounding region. The hotel is also just a short walk from the Sonoma-Marin Area Rapid Transit (SMART) station, making it easy to travel throughout the area. In the evening, unwind with great conversation and handcrafted cocktails at the hotel’s bar, 1892, or enjoy the relaxing ambience next to the crackling firepit in the outdoor courtyard.

hamptonpetaluma.hamptonbyhilton.com G e Ê @hamptoninnpetaluma

Home2 Suites by Hilton Petaluma

Stay, relax, and explore Petaluma with Home2 Suites by Hilton Petaluma, offering a true home away from home experience. Spacious and stylish studio and one-bedroom suites are thoughtfully designed with a streamlined approach to comfort and function. Savor complimentary hot breakfast, featuring artisan sandwiches, waffles, and other healthy choices. Unwind in the heated saline pool and spa, stay active in the 24-hour fitness center, and relax by the community barbecue and fire pits. ChargePoint stations, free parking, and Wi-Fi add to the convenience. A prime location just minutes from historic downtown Petaluma makes it easy to explore shops, restaurants, and nearby attractions.

hilton.com/en/hotels/oakptht-home2-suites-petaluma G @home2suitespetaluma