With 19 distinct wine-growing areas and over 425 wineries, Sonoma County is one of the best places to drink wine. The area is renowned for its world-class wine production, attracting tourists from around the world. Visitors can expect to enjoy the fruity and earthy aroma of a fresh Pinot Noir and Zinfandel. While a wine tour is on your list of vacation activities, the region boasts many other attractions that will create a different sort of buzz. Here are the top 10 things to do in Sonoma County (and drinking wine is one of them).
Wine Tasting
The Buena Vista Winery is considered California’s first premier winery. It was founded in 1857 by the “father of California wine,” Hungarian immigrant Agoston Haraszthy. A historical landmark not just for Sonoma County, but for the state, the Buena Vista Winery hosts seated, bar, and outdoor tastings with its impressive collection. However, don’t stop there; the area has plenty more wineries to explore.
Explore Nature Parks
Now that you have a good buzz going, let’s check out the next attraction. Among the ancient redwood trees stands Colonel Armstrong, the oldest tree in the grove at over 1,400 years old. Hike the peaceful trails or have a picnic in the serenity of nature at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. You’ll marvel at Earth’s tallest living things.
Visit Sonoma Plaza
Now head into the city. Sonoma Plaza, located in Sonoma, is an eight-acre park that serves as the town center, the largest in California. The main structure has a rich history. It was once a Mexican military outpost and a Spanish Mission. The surrounding grounds are lush with trees, duck ponds, fountains, and rose gardens. It’s a beautiful focal point for the nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions downtown.
Enjoy the Coast
Hit the road and drive along the California coast on Highway 1. The scenic drive offers stunning views of the coastal landscape, featuring dramatic cliffs, jagged rocks, sandy beaches, and hidden coves. Pull off into one of Sonoma County’s small charming towns and spend the day hiking, fishing, kayaking, or wildlife viewing. Visit in spring for blooming wildflowers, summer for a cool ocean breeze, or enjoy the mild temperatures throughout winter and fall.
Savor Local Cuisine
All that exploring is sure to build an appetite – luckily, Sonoma County is home to amazing restaurants. One highly recommended option is the girl & the fig, located at Sonoma Plaza. Their seasonal menu fuses “country food with a French passion.” Some of their most popular dishes include the steak tartare, fig & arugula salad, crispy duck confit, and wild flounder meunière. As expected, their wine selection is excellent.
Experience a Safari
Now that you have food in you, it’s time to check out Safari West, an authentic safari with open-air vehicles and over 90 animal species, primarily from Africa. The 400-acre property offers an immersive experience with open pastures where animals roam freely. Book an overnight stay in a luxurious rented accommodation. The park’s commitment to education and conservation makes Safari West feel more than a zoo.
Explore Healdsburg
Before your buzz wears off, top off in Healdsburg. This charming town is at the intersection of three prominent wine valleys: the Russian River Valley, the Dry Creek Valley, and Alexander Valley. That means you get to try different grape varietals distinct to each region. Taste the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Russian River Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley, and Zinfandel from Dry Creek Valley—a dream for any wine lover.
Visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum
In 1950, Charlie Brown made his debut in the Peanuts comic strip, created by Charles M. Schulz. The lovable blockhead, wearing a black and yellow zigzagged shirt, and his group of friends won the hearts of millions, facing real-life problems on the funny pages. At the Charles M. Schulz Museum, learn about the hapless yet determined boy and his illustrator through exclusive artwork and special exhibits. You’ll say “good grief” if you don’t visit it in Santa Rosa.
Go Ziplining
Soar above the trees and high in the sky when you zipline through this incredible area. At Sonoma Zipline Adventures, zip through redwoods and take in nature’s magnificent scenes with the rush of adrenaline. Go in the daytime or plan to go at night and spend the night glamping. You won’t get the thrill anywhere else.
Relax at a Spa
The last destination in Sonoma County is at one of the area’s most famous spas, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. The facility is located atop a natural geothermal mineral spring. Guests soak in the natural pools and enjoy a Roman-style bathhouse. After a long day of exploring Sonoma County, it’s time to sit back and relax at one of the best spas in the area.
