Things To Do
in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa sits in the heart of Sonoma County, surrounded by vineyards and redwood forests. The city blends small-town charm with foodie farms and cultural attractions like the Schulz Museum and historic Courthouse Square. It serves as a gateway to the Russian River Valley and the broader wine country, with easy access to outdoor adventures.
The climate is mild, making it a year-round base for day trips, wine tastings, and scenic drives.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Santa Rosa Plaza, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll among charming boutiques and cafés. Grab a coffee at one of the local shops and take in the artistic murals that adorn the streets. Make your way to the Santa Rosa History Museum to dive deep into the local heritage.
After lunch at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant, head over to the Charles M. Schulz Museum, dedicated to the beloved Peanuts cartoonist. Spend a few hours exploring the exhibits that celebrate Schulz's life and work, including interactive displays that are fun for all ages. Don’t forget to visit the museum gift shop for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, dine at one of Santa Rosa’s renowned restaurants, perhaps enjoying some locally sourced wine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Railroad Square Historic District, where you can admire the beautifully restored buildings. End your evening with a performance at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, catching a local show or concert.
Begin your day with a scenic drive through the picturesque Sonoma Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and lush vineyards. Stop at a local vineyard for a guided tour, where you can learn about grape growing and wine production. Savor a light breakfast paired with a glass of sparkling wine to kick off your wine-tasting adventure.
Visit a couple of renowned wineries, where you can sample a variety of wines and enjoy beautiful views of the vineyards. Take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle, and consider purchasing a few favorites to take home. For lunch, picnic at one of the winery grounds, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Return to Santa Rosa and enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro featuring a menu inspired by the season's freshest ingredients. After your meal, visit a local bar for a nightcap or craft cocktails, where you can mingle with locals and travelers alike. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the vibrant downtown area, enjoying the lively ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stellar wine country access and farm-to-table dining.
- Walkable downtown with cultural attractions like the Schulz Museum.
- Wide range of outdoor options from redwoods to river adventures.
- Good year-round climate for outdoor activities.
- Can be busy during harvest season and weekends.
- Traffic can be heavier on 101 and during events.
- Some higher-end venues can be pricey; alcohol taxes apply.
Places to Visit in Santa Rosa
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic public space with historic architecture and colorful string lights, great for street photography.
Lush garden settings and ornamental trees provide vibrant close-up and landscape shots.
Towering redwoods create dramatic forest photography opportunities, especially in soft morning light.
Colorful walls and converted rail-adjacent spaces offer urban photography opportunities.
Rolling vineyards and valley vistas offer sweeping landscape shots, especially during golden hour.
Food in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seafood-studded stew showcasing local catches, best enjoyed at waterfront-inspired spots around town.
Must-Try!
A regional favorite featuring smoked tri-tip on a crusty bun, often found at casual delis and barbeque spots.
Local dairies and bakeries produce notable cheeses and rustic loaves perfect for a picnic with vineyard views.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market at Courthouse Square with seasonal produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite conversation and small talk are valued; tipping is customary but not mandatory in non-service contexts.
Respect for wine producers and quiet, attentive conduct in tasting rooms; avoid loud with cell phones.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Rosa
Ensure a smooth experience
15-20% at restaurants; rounding up at casual spots is common; tips for tour guides and hospitality staff are appreciated.
Most places accept credit/debit cards; digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Wallet) are widely used; cash is always accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days are common; carry water, use sun protection, and plan early visits to avoid crowds, with pleasant evenings.
Harvest season brings wine-tasting specials; mild weather; fog may linger in the mornings.
Mild, wetter months with a chance of showers; layering is key; many outdoor areas remain accessible.
Blooming vineyards and gardens; moderate temperatures; occasional rain; ideal for outdoor exploration.
Santa Rosa at Night
Hiking in Santa Rosa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient redwood forest with easy to moderate trails and tranquil creeks.
Large network of trails through grasslands and forests, suitable for hiking and biking.
Elevation viewpoints overlooking Santa Rosa and surrounding valleys.
Waterfront trails with lakeside views and wildlife observation.
Airports
How to reach Santa Rosa by plane.
Located just north of Santa Rosa; short drive to downtown and wine country; frequent regional flights.
Major international hub approximately 1.5-2 hours by car or rail via Bay Area connections.
Alternative Bay Area airport with access to US domestic routes; drive or transit connections to Santa Rosa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban neighborhoods and good school districts around the city.
Service and tech-adjacent industries with a growing downtown.
Retirement-friendly communities with active lifestyle options.
Residents and visitors drawn to vineyards, culinary scenes, and farmers markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular due to scenic routes through wine country and in-town bike lanes.
Community leagues and ballparks; local games are a common weekend pastime.
Several courses nearby; good year-round playing conditions.
Supportive community for outdoors enthusiasts with multiple regional parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Rosa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Santa Rosa spots label vegetarian options; ask for meat-free versions of house dishes or customize bowls.