How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Sonoma County, According to a Realtor

Historic vineyards, gorgeous organic produce, safe and diverse neighborhoods, and plenty of other perks to cherish—Sonoma County is a NorCal gem that deserves your attention. Whether you’re looking to embark on a getaway, relocate to a new town, or purchase a second home, Sonoma is a top contender among your choices, and a visit to the county will immediately make you understand why. Ready to get a taste of your own? Here are the best things to do on a Sonoma County weekend trip.

Fun Things to Do in Sonoma

The perfect Sonoma County weekend itinerary can entail many different kinds of activities. Due to the abundance of natural beauty, awesome amenities, and visitor-centric nature, crafting an awesome and fun-filled itinerary in Sonoma County is easy-peasy.

Meet the Animals at Safari West Wildlife Preserve 

Safari West is a private wildlife preserve in Santa Rosa with a mission to promote conservation. Plan to make a stop on your Sonoma County getaway and see how one of only six accredited private zoological facilities in the United States operates. If you’re traveling with children, going on a safari will be one of the coolest adventures you’ll have on your Sonoma getaway.

Tour the Charles Schulz Museum and Research Center

Were you a fan of Snoopy growing up? Then you must absolutely visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa! Dedicated to the works of Charles M. Schulz, this unique and strange museum showcases awesome exhibits illustrating the scope of Schulz’s multifaceted career. Add this museum to your list of things to do in Sonoma County and you’ll learn about Schulz, his inspirations, Peanuts characters, and cartoon art as a medium.

Pay A Visit to Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Over in Guerneville, the towering trees in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve invite you for a day of outdoor exploration. For an easy hike through the reserve, take the 1.7-mile Pioneer Nature Trail—this will be the highlight of your Sonoma County weekend escape.

Hike the Beautiful Trails at Shiloh Ranch Regional Park

There’s no such thing as too much time spent outdoors on a Sonoma County getaway. That’s why a visit to Shiloh Ranch Regional Park in southeast Windsor is a must. Set in a rugged landscape in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains, this gorgeous Sonoma County park offers around eight miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Explore to your heart’s content!

Where to Eat in Sonoma

Considering the abundance of organic and sustainable produce in the area, it’s only natural that Sonoma County restaurants get such high praise. In fact, the dining scene is one of the main draws of Sonoma County tourism. After all, with a seamless combination of talented chefs and delicious ingredients, how can you not love the food you eat in Sonoma County? 

Breakfast

Dierk’s Midtown Cafe

Dierk’s Midtown Cafe is the perfect spot in Santa Rosa to indulge in down-home cooking. If you usually like having something sweet for breakfast, make sure to try Grandma Sophie’s Pull-A-Parts, which is tender fried dough dusted with cinnamon and sugar. A side of two eggs will make your first Sonoma County getaway breakfast experience a delight.

Costeaux French Bakery

The delightful aroma of freshly baked bread will reel you in as soon as you pass by Costeaux French Bakery in Healdsburg. Their breakfast menu is delicious, but what steals the spotlight for me is the large selection of housemade bread and pastries. Take a few for the road as you wrap up your Sonoma County weekend escape.

Lunch 

Monti’s

Monti’s is a stylish restaurant in Santa Rosa serving innovative American bites. If you’re planning on sharing food and stories, this is the spot to reserve in Sonoma County—their shareable small plates and appetizers are delish. 

East West Cafe

Sonoma County’s premier restaurant for Mediterranean cuisine is East West Cafe. With a location in Santa Rosa and another in Sebastopol, this local favorite is known for its tasteful and fresh menu that embraces vegan and vegetarian options.

Dinner

Chalkboard

Chalkboard is another contemporary Healdsburg favorite and a great place to share seasonal American plates in an airy and casual setting. As a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient for nine years, the food at this Sonoma County dinner spot is absolutely scrumptious.

John Ash and Co.

Want to go all out for dinner on your Sonoma County getaway? Reserve a table at John Ash and Co. at the Vintners Resort. This romantic destination serves Californian fare in a beautifully classic setting, offering vineyard views and terrace seating.

Where to Stay in Sonoma

Sonoma County’s hotels and resorts are renowned worldwide for exceptional service, beautiful settings, and effortless luxury. Want to revel in the splendor of it all? These are the hotels that’ll have you falling head over heels on your Sonoma and Napa Valley weekend getaway.

Flamingo Resort

Flamingo Resort is my favorite spot for a staycation in Santa Rosa. A mid-century marvel set on a 10-acre property, this half-a-century old, family-run resort has been a beacon of Sonoma County tourism for generations. Perfect for both a romantic escape with your beaux and a friendly weekend getaway, Flamingo Resort is an accommodation that always impresses.

Indian Springs Resort and Spa

Set on a 16-acre site just across the county line in Calistoga, Indian Springs Resort and Spa is a historic, Spanish-style retreat originally dating back to 1862. Comprising of an eclectic collection of bungalows, historic cottages, and Mission Revival-style buildings, this upscale resort provides a sense of luxury and warmth without all the fuss. 

The resort spa is also one of the original spots in California offering thermal mineral waters and mud baths—you’ll see it on many wellness enthusiasts' bucket lists. So, if you want your Sonoma County weekend escape to feature a bit of calm, clarity, and Calistoga, you should definitely drive to this nearby resort.

MacArthur Place Hotel and Spa

Still wondering where to stay in Sonoma Valley? The luxurious MacArthur Place Hotel and Spa will definitely impress. As an award-winning Sonoma County hotel, spa, and culinary destination, this century-old escape is quite the exclusive destination—a perfect accommodation to book if you’re celebrating a special milestone with a special someone.

What would your perfect Sonoma County weekend escape look like?