12 Things to Do in Sonoma Wine Country (Wine + Lots More)

If you’re planning a trip to Sonoma Wine Country, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful region of California is known for its world-class wines, farm-to-table dining, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing getaway, you’re going to love Sonoma and all it has to offer.

From exploring the wineries to dining at farm-to-table restaurants, there’s plenty to keep you busy. You can also take a break from wine tasting and enjoy art, whale watching, biking, or a visit to the Safari West Wildlife Preserve. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to Sonoma Wine Country.

To make the most of your visit, we’ve put together a list of 12 things to do in Sonoma Wine Country. We’ve visited during all four seasons and there’s always something unique going on. So no matter when you’re planning your trip, you’ll have a great time.

» Looking for more wine regions in California to visit? We personally love the Paso Robles area, as well as the classics Sonoma County, Napa Valley, Santa Barbara County, and even Lodi!

Things to Do in Sonoma

Explore the Wineries

When it comes to wine country, Sonoma is a must-visit destination. With over 400 wineries and vineyards in the region, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. Here are some top picks to help you explore the wineries of Sonoma Wine Country.

Sonoma Valley Vineyards

Sonoma Valley is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in the region. This AVA is known for producing high-quality wines, especially Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Some of the must-visit vineyards in Sonoma Valley include:

• Jordan Vineyard & Winery: Known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, this winery offers a variety of tours and tastings.
• Buena Vista Winery: Founded in 1857, this is the oldest commercial winery in California. Take a tour of the historic property and try their award-winning wines.
• Kunde Family Winery: This family-owned winery offers stunning views of the valley and a variety of tasting experiences.

Russian River Valley Wineries

The Russian River Valley AVA is known for its cool climate and is particularly well-suited for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Some of the top wineries to visit in this region include:

• Williams Selyem Winery: This winery is known for its Pinot Noir and has received numerous accolades for its wines.
• Gary Farrell Winery: With a focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this winery offers tastings with stunning views of the valley.
• Rochioli Vineyards & Winery: This family-owned winery has been producing wine for over 80 years and is known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Wine Tasting Rooms

If you’re short on time or want to sample a variety of wines in one place, check out some of Sonoma’s wine tasting rooms. Here are a few options to consider:

• Sonoma Plaza Tasting Rooms: Located in the heart of Sonoma, these tasting rooms offer a variety of wines from different producers.
• Corner 103: This tasting room offers a unique sensory experience, with wine tastings paired with food and music.
• MacRostie Winery & Tasting Room: With stunning views of the Russian River Valley, this tasting room offers a variety of wines to try.

Wine Tasting Tours

If you want to leave the driving to someone else, consider booking a wine tasting tour. Here are a few companies to consider:

• Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley Including Lunch
• Sonoma Valley Sidecar Wine tours
• The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

Farm-to-Table Dining

Sonoma County is famous for its farm-to-table dining experience. The region is home to numerous restaurants that source their ingredients from local farms, wineries, and gardens. If you are a foodie, you must try the farm-to-table dining experience in Sonoma Wine Country. Here are some of the top farm-to-table restaurants in the region that you shouldn’t miss.

• Top Farm-to-Table Restaurants in Sonoma County: This article lists some of the top farm-to-table restaurants in Sonoma County. Some of the notable restaurants include SingleThread, Healdsburg Shed, and Backyard.
• Best Sonoma County Farm-to-Table Restaurants: This article also lists some of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Sonoma County. Some of the restaurants mentioned in this article include Valette and The Spinster Sisters.

Farm-to-table dining in Sonoma Wine Country is not just about the food. It’s also about the experience. Most of the restaurants in the region offer a unique dining experience that combines food, wine, and ambiance. Here are some things to keep in mind when you are dining at a farm-to-table restaurant in Sonoma Wine Country.

• Seasonal menu: Most farm-to-table restaurants in Sonoma County change their menu frequently based on the season, like J Vintners. This means that you will get to taste the freshest and most flavorful ingredients that are in season.
• Wine pairing: Sonoma Wine Country is famous for its wines. Most farm-to-table restaurants in the region offer wine pairing with their dishes, like St. Francis Winery, who has a wine and food pairing lunch that’s pretty special. Kendall Jackson also has a food and wine pairing that has gotten pretty epic over the years.

Explore Sonoma Plaza

Take a stroll around Sonoma Plaza, the historic town square that dates back to the early 1800s. The plaza is surrounded by charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Take some time to explore the area and get a taste of the local culture.

Here are our top things to do in Sonoma Plaza:

• Valley of the Moon Farmer’s Night Market (open on Tuesdays afternoons from May thru September)
• Walk through Sonoma State Historic Park
• Visit Valley of the Moon Winery
• Eat at the girl and the fig
• The Chocolate Cow chocolate shop
• Make a wine appt for Corner 103 or Bedrock Wine Co.

Breweries in Sonoma

If you’re a beer enthusiast visiting Sonoma Wine Country, you’re in luck. The region is home to over 30 craft breweries and brewpubs, each with its own unique style and flavor. Here are a few breweries you should definitely check out:

• Russian River Brewing Company: This brewery is known for its award-winning Pliny the Elder double IPA. They also offer a variety of other beers and have a pub where you can enjoy a bite to eat.
• Lagunitas Brewing Company: This brewery is one of the largest in Sonoma County and is known for its IPA and other hoppy beers. They also have a taproom and beer garden where you can enjoy live music and events.
• Bear Republic Brewing Company: This brewery is known for its Racer 5 IPA and other hop-forward beers. They also have a brewpub where you can enjoy food and drink.
• HenHouse Brewing Company: This brewery is known for its hoppy and sour beers, as well as its experimental brews. They have a taproom and beer garden where you can enjoy a pint or flight.
• Moonlight Brewing Company: This brewery is known for its unique and flavorful beers, including its Death and Taxes black lager. They have a taproom where you can sample their offerings.

These are just a few of the many breweries in Sonoma Wine Country. Be sure to check out others like Fogbelt Brewing Company, Third Street Aleworks, and Woodfour Brewing Company. With so many options, you’re sure to find a beer you love.

Farmers Markets

If you are a foodie, you cannot miss the farmers markets in Sonoma County. These markets are the perfect place to get fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal cheeses, and other specialty foods. Here are some of the best farmers markets in Sonoma County:

Farmers Market	Location	Days and Time
Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market	Santa Rosa	Saturdays, 8:30am-1pm Wednesdays 8:30am-1pm March thru December
Healdsburg Farmers Market	Healdsburg	Saturdays, 8:30am-12pm (April-Dec) and Tuesdays 9am-12:30pm (May-Sept)
Petaluma Farmers Market	Petaluma	Tuesdays, 10am-1:30pm, Saturday afternoons May-Nov; Thursday evening June-Sept
Sonoma Valley Farmers Market	Sonoma	Fridays, 9am-12:30pm
Sebastopol Farmers Market	Sebastopol	Sundays, 9am-1:30pm, all year
Russian River Market	Geurneville	Thursdays 3pm-7pm June thru Aug
Cloverdale Tuesday Farmers Market	Cloverdale	Tuesdays 3pm-7pm March thru Sept

The Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market is the oldest and largest farmers market in Sonoma County. It offers a wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal cheeses, and other specialty foods.

The Healdsburg Farmers Market is one of the oldest certified markets in Sonoma County. The market features over 60 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more.

The Petaluma Farmers Market features over 60 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more. The market also offers live music and cooking demonstrations.

The Sonoma Valley Farmers Market has over 30 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more. The market also offers live music and cooking demonstrations.

The Sebastopol Farmers Market features over 50 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more. The market also offers live music and cooking demonstrations.

Art Galleries

Sonoma County is home to a diverse range of art galleries that feature works of art in different mediums such as painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. Some of the popular galleries worth checking out include:

• The Annex Galleries in Santa Rosa, which specializes in 19th and 20th-century American prints and works on paper.
• Sebastopol Center for the Arts in Sebastopol, which hosts exhibitions, performances, and workshops in various art forms.
• Healdsburg Center for the Arts in Healdsburg, which showcases contemporary art in a variety of mediums.

Museums

If you’re interested in exploring the history and culture of Sonoma County, you can visit one of the many museums in the area. Some of the popular museums include:

• Sonoma Valley Museum of Art in Sonoma, which features contemporary art exhibitions and educational programs.
• Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, which celebrates the life and work of the creator of the Peanuts comic strip.
• Pacific Coast Air Museum in Santa Rosa, which displays a collection of aircraft and aviation artifacts.

Whale Watching in Bodega Head

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting experience in Sonoma Wine Country, look no further than whale watching in Bodega Head. Located on the coast of Sonoma County, Bodega Head is one of the top whale watching spots in the area.

During the winter months, gray whales migrate along the Sonoma County coast to their breeding lagoons on the west coast of Baja California. This is the perfect time to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures as they swim south. In the spring, they return to their summer feeding grounds in the Arctic’s Bering Sea.

There are several companies that offer whale watching tours in Bodega Bay, including Bodega Bay Whale Watching. These tours provide a unique opportunity to see gray whales up close and personal. You may also have the chance to see humpback whales, blue whales, and even killer whales.

In addition to whale watching, Bodega Head is also a great place for hiking and bird watching. The Bodega Head Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Bodega Bay. Keep an eye out for the many species of birds that call Bodega Head home, including ospreys, peregrine falcons, and brown pelicans.

Biking in Wine Country

One of the best ways to experience Sonoma Wine Country is by bike. With scenic routes that take you through vineyards, valleys, and mountain passes, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure.

There are many popular bike routes to choose from, each offering a unique experience. The Russian River Valley loop is a great option for those who want a leisurely ride through rolling hills and vineyards.

If you’re looking for a more challenging ride, consider the Dry Creek Valley Loop, which takes you through steep hills and rugged terrain. The Loeb Vineyard tour in both Mendocino and Sonoma counties is also a great option for those who want to experience the best views.

If you don’t have your own bike, there are many bike rental shops in the area. You can rent a bike for a day or longer, depending on your needs. Some rental shops even offer guided tours, so you can learn more about the area as you ride.

Make sure to pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a map. You’ll also want to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as a helmet for safety.

One of the best things about biking in wine country is the opportunity to stop at wineries along the way. Many wineries offer tastings and tours, so you can learn more about the wine-making process and sample some of the best wines in the area.

Visit Safari West Wildlife Preserve

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting adventure in Sonoma Wine Country, a visit to Safari West Wildlife Preserve is a must-do. This 400-acre wildlife preserve is home to nearly 900 animals from over 90 unique species, including giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and lemurs.

Safari West offers a variety of ways to explore the preserve, including guided safari tours, horseback riding tours, and private tours. During your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see the animals up-close and learn about their behaviors and habitats from knowledgeable guides.

In addition to the safari tours, Safari West also offers an African tent camp experience, where you can spend the night in a luxurious tent surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness. The tent camp includes amenities such as hot showers, comfortable beds, and gourmet meals prepared by on-site chefs.

If you’re interested in learning more about the animals at Safari West, the preserve also hosts educational programs and events throughout the year. Check their website for details about upcoming events, such as their Wildlife Weekend and Sunset Safari.

Visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum

If you are a fan of the Peanuts comic strip, then a visit to the Charles M. Schulz Museum is a must-do when in Sonoma Wine Country. The museum is located in Santa Rosa and is dedicated to the life and work of Charles M. Schulz, the creator of Peanuts.

Inside the museum, you can view the largest collection of original Peanuts artwork in the world. The exhibits include a re-creation of Schulz’s studio, the Peanuts Tile Mural comprised of 3,588 comic strips, and the Nursery Wall painted by Schulz in his Colorado home in 1951. You can also explore the outdoor gardens and Snoopy Labyrinth.

The museum offers several tour options, including a Basic Schulz Museum Tour that guides visitors through the permanent exhibits.

The Charles M. Schulz Museum is open Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, and on weekends from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, except for Memorial Day through Labor Day. Admission prices vary, but discounts are available for seniors, students, and military personnel.

Visit Sonoma’s State and Regional Parks

When you’re ready to take a break from wine tasting, Sonoma County offers a variety of state and regional parks to explore. These parks are perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Sonoma County Regional Parks is a network of 56 parks and trails that offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there’s something for everyone. Some of the most popular parks in the network include:

Park Name	Description
Taylor Mountain Regional Park	This park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the Santa Rosa Plain. There’s also a natural play area for kids.
Spring Lake Regional Park	This park is home to a beautiful lake that’s perfect for swimming and boating. There are also hiking trails, a campground, and a fishing pier.
Doran Regional Park	This park is located on the coast and offers beach access, hiking trails, and a campground. It’s a great place to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

If you’re looking for a truly unique outdoor experience, head to the Redwoods State Natural Reserve. This park is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, including the 310-foot-tall Parson Jones Tree. There are several hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to challenging. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the redwoods.

Hood Mountain Regional Park

Hood Mountain Regional Park is located in the Mayacamas Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. There are several hiking trails in the park, including the challenging Hood Mountain Trail, which leads to the summit of Hood Mountain. The park is also home to several campsites, making it a great place to spend the night under the stars..

Accommodation Options

When planning your trip to Sonoma Wine Country, it’s important to consider your accommodation options. Here are some great options to consider:

Lodging in Sonoma

Our favorite place to stay in Sonoma is the Vintners Resort. It’s in a very convenient location, close to the airport, freeway, and wineries like Kendall Jackson. It’s a 4-star hotel with a spa, restaurant, and pool. Some rooms have fireplaces, which is really nice during the winter.

In Healdsburg, there are a lot of great options, including the H2Hotel, which is a 4-star hotel right near the plaza. It makes for an easy way to go to tasting rooms without driving, and there are a lot of great restaurants and bars nearby.

Travel Tips and Information

Weather in Sonoma

Sonoma County is known for its mild climate, with an average temperature of 70°F (21°C) during the summer months and 55°F (13°C) during the winter months. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to check the forecast before you go. In general, the best time to visit Sonoma Wine Country is from May to October, when the weather is warm and dry.

Getting to Sonoma

Sonoma Wine Country is located about an hour’s drive north of San Francisco. The most popular route is to take Highway 101 north across the Golden Gate Bridge and then take Highway 12 west. However, if you’re coming from the east or south, you can also take Highway 12 directly to Sonoma.

There are also several airports in the area, including the closest, Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport, and San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and Oakland International Airport (OAK), which are both about an hour’s drive from Sonoma.

Highway 12 is the main route through Sonoma Wine Country, and it’s lined with wineries, restaurants, and other attractions. It’s a scenic drive, but it can also be crowded, especially on weekends and during peak season. If you’re planning on visiting wineries along Highway 12, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique characteristics of the Sonoma wine region?

Sonoma County is known for its diverse terroir, which allows for a wide range of grape varieties to thrive. The region is also known for its commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices, which many wineries in the area practice. Additionally, Sonoma County is home to many small, family-owned wineries that offer a more intimate and personalized tasting experience.

How do I plan a day trip to Sonoma?

When planning a day trip to Sonoma, it’s important to prioritize what you want to see and do. Consider visiting a few wineries that specialize in the types of wine you enjoy most, and be sure to make reservations in advance. You may also want to explore some of the area’s charming towns, such as Healdsburg or Sonoma. Finally, be sure to leave time for a leisurely lunch and some scenic drives through the countryside.

What are some of the best wine experiences in Sonoma?

Sonoma County offers a wide range of wine experiences, from intimate tastings at small wineries to grand tastings at larger estates. Some of the best experiences include food and wine pairings, vineyard tours, and barrel tastings. Many wineries also offer unique experiences such as blending seminars or grape stomping.

What are some popular events in Sonoma?

Sonoma County is home to many popular events throughout the year, including the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, the Sonoma International Film Festival, and the Sonoma Valley Olive Festival. Additionally, many wineries host their own events, such as release parties and winemaker dinners.

What are some must-visit spots in downtown Sonoma?

Downtown Sonoma is home to many historic landmarks, including the Mission San Francisco Solano and the Sonoma Plaza. The plaza is a great place to start your visit, with its beautiful park, historic buildings, and many shops and restaurants. Other must-visit spots include the Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau, the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, and the Sebastiani Theatre.

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November 20, 2023