Nestled in the heart of California’s wine county, Santa Rosa is the perfect vacation destination for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with metropolitan luxury. Choose from this list of activities to make your next trip to Santa Rosa one to remember!
Check into the best hotels or Vrbo vacation rentals in the city, and read on to find out the best things to do in Santa Rosa, California.
1. Explore the wine country with a self-guided e-bike tour (from USD 105.0)
If you’re looking forward to sightseeing famous attractions in Santa Rosa and beyond, Pedego Santa Rosa gives you the opportunity to explore what lies ahead. You can tour the wider wine country of Sonoma Valley with their collection of e-bike rentals. Whether you’re going solo or accompanied by a group of friends, you can venture out to various attractions, stop by local restaurants, and roll ahead on a scenic trail that offers stunning views of the valleys and other natural wonders.
Breaking away from the usual mechanics, you’re given access to a self-guided tour app, which comes in handy as you visit the city’s key places. You can rent out any of the e-bikes from Pedego for three hours or an entire day.
Santa Rosa Electric Bike Rentals
Duration: 3 hours
2. Go bar-hopping across Santa Rosa's best breweries (from USD 129.0)
Santa Rosa is filled with not just award-winning wineries but also highly acclaimed breweries and microbreweries. If you’re keen on exploring the city’s craft beer scene, treat yourself to this beer crawl, where you can visit four of the top breweries in the area. In fact, your meeting point will be in one of those four!
Learn about the secrets behind the breweries’ standout craft beer variants, tips and tricks on how they are made, and the flourishing craft beer industry at large in Santa Rosa and California. Between these points of interest, you’ll also be treated to a scrumptious offering of bar snacks.
Santa Rosa Craft Beer Walking Tour With Tacos
Duration: 3 hours
3. Hike the trails of Trione-Annadel State Park
In such a beautiful landscape like Sonoma Valley, it’s quite hard to ignore the outdoors. One of the best spots to go on a hike with your friends is Trione-Annadel State Park. It’s located in the northern part of the valley close to Spring Lake Regional Park.
This state park is home to a diverse wildlife and flora, and besides strolling through the picturesque meadows, some other popular things to do in the area are mountain biking and trail riding. Book an RV rental or stay in a nearby cabin to get closer to this refreshing experience.
Trione-Annadel State Park
Address: 6201 Channel Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, United States
Website: Trione-Annadel State Park
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4. Get to know aviation history at Pacific Coast Air Museum
Kill your curiosity about aviation history and pay a visit to Pacific Coast Air Museum in Santa Rosa. This museum, initially established in 1989, aims to immortalize the history of aviation by restoring and exhibiting historic aircraft like those of the US Military. In fact, there are displays here that were used during World War II, Vietnam War, and Korean War. There are also propeller and jet aircrafts on-site. You can also sign up for classes such as principles of flight.
Pacific Coast Air Museum
Address: One Air Museum Way, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, United States
Website: Pacific Coast Air Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
5. Check out the exhibit at Calabi Gallery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
"Primeval Times" by Roy De Forest (1930-2007) 1993, Lithograph in 6 Colors, Edition of 75, 32 x...
Posted by Calabi Gallery on Thursday, May 20, 2021
If you’re someone who enjoys an unusual mishmash of contemporary and antique art, there’s a special spot just for you in Santa Rosa. Calabi Gallery, owned by Dennis Calabi, aims to bring awareness to the lesser-known inspirational artworks. With the goal of moving people, Calabi Gallery features works from the 19th and 21st centuries, as well as a special focus on 20th-century art. The eclectic selection of works available at the gallery is sure to evoke an emotion in you.
Calabi Gallery
Address: 456 10th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, United States
Website: Calabi Gallery
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
6. Enjoy a pint with friends at Russian River Brewing Company
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Russian River Brewing Company on Friday, March 26, 2021
Looking for a place to hang your hat for a bit and have a nice chit-chat with your friends? Sonoma County may be known as a wine region, but if beers and other spirits are your jam, the place to go is Russian River Brewing Company. This brewery was established in 1997 and is notable for strong IPAs and sour beers. Their signature lagers and ales are Happy Hops, Pliny the Elder, and Blind Pig IPA. For Belgian-inspired fare, try Beatification and Damnation!
Russian River Brewing Company
Address: 725 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States
Website: Russian River Brewing Company
Opening hours: 11am - 9:30pm (daily)
7. Dine out with friends at SEA Thai Bistro
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
NEW! Tony's SET for 2: This week we are showcasing ribeye steak! Crying Tiger Salad w/ribye, tomaoes, onions, mint, and...
Posted by SEA Thai Bistro on Thursday, April 22, 2021
Capping a trip with a nice meal is always a good idea. If you’ve been craving Thai food, one of the best restaurants to check out in Santa Rosa is SEA Thai Bistro. The eatery specializes in Thai fare with a hint of its Southeast Asian neighbor countries, all while using sustainable and organic ingredients. The restaurant maintains a laid-back vibe while still being elegant. Go on a gastronomic trip while in town and make sure that you treat yourself and your loved ones to a sumptuous dinner at SEA Thai Bistro.
SEA Thai Bistro
Address: 2350 Midway Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, United States
Website: SEA Thai Bistro
Opening hours: 11:30am - 3pm, 4pm - 8:30pm (daily)
8. Visit the home of the Charlie Brown comic strip
Don’t know what to do in Santa Rosa with the little ones? Charles M. Schulz, of Charlie Brown fame, called the Sonoma Valley home for over 40 years. To honor his legacy and bring the comic strips to life, the Charles M. Schultz Museum has numerous exhibitions, events, and displays for visitors of any age looking for fun things to do in Santa Rosa. The kids can consider signing up for classes and educational camps designed for young artists.
Adults can choose from a wide range of museum-led tours and classes while the kids are at play. And, don’t forget to check out Snoopy’s home ice rink – the Redwood Empire Ice Arena. Stop by the rink to beat the heat on a warm summer day and enjoy an afternoon of ice skating or some fresh local cuisine at the Warm Puppy Café!
Visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum
Address: 2301 Hardies Ln, 95403 Santa Rosa, CA
Website: Charles M. Schulz Museum
Snoopy's Home Ice
Address: 1667 W Steele Ln, 95403 Santa Rosa, CA
Website: Redwood Ice Arena
9. Hit the slots at a local casino
Just outside Santa Rosa, the intrepid visitor will find a handful of resort getaways. For those looking for the complete vacation package or just a night of poker and slots and other fun Santa Rosa activities, the resorts and casinos of Sonoma County are sure to please. Each resort in the area boasts a wide variety of luxurious amenities for every budget, from all-inclusive vacation packages to discount promotions. Each resort has its own distinct flair, so finding one that suits your interests won’t be difficult.
If you’re looking for nightlife, check out local resorts’ line-up for nightly live entertainment and their assortment of dining options, from restaurants to bars and lounges. Many resorts also have spas and salons for those looking for an oasis retreat from city life. Whatever your desires, the resorts and casinos are worthy destinations for your Santa Rosa vacation.
Graton Resort and Casino
Address: 288 Golf Course Dr. W, 94928 Rohnert Park, CA
Website: Graton Resort and Casino
River Rock Casino
Address: 3250 CA-128, 95441 Geyserville, CA
Website: River Rock Casino
10. Stand underneath a grove of California redwood trees
The Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, a majestic grove of ancient coastal redwood trees, is just a half an hour drive from downtown Santa Rosa. On a beautiful summer day, these magnificent giants offer a bit of quiet respite from daily life. The park, created in the 1870s to preserve the beauty and intrinsic value of this stand of redwoods, features walking and horseback trails, picnic facilities, an outdoor amphitheater, and a visitor center.
Guided trail hikes are available to those looking for local knowledge on the nearby flora and fauna while the park hosts numerous education events throughout the summer season. Be sure to include a trip to see the redwoods on your next Santa Rosa vacation. If you’re also looking to stay near this natural landscape, there are several glamping spots nearby.
The Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Address: 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, 95446 Guerneville, CA
11. Head to the museums!
Sonoma County boasts some of California’s best museums. Head indoors on a rainy day to enjoy some uniquely curated art exhibits or take a stroll through the sculpture garden on a sunny afternoon. Get your history fix in during a tour of Sonoma County’s History Museum. Current exhibits frequently feature the best of local, state, and national artifacts and are sure to bring out the historian in everyone. This Santa Rosa attraction is a perfect rainy-day activity.
Museums of Sonoma County
Address: 425 7th St, 95401 Santa Rosa, CA
Website: Museums of Sonoma County
12. Have a two-wheel adventure
Take a break from walking around town and hop on two wheels. Santa Rosa has an intricate network of bike trails from easy city strolls to intense mountain adventures that are sure to be a perfect match for everyone in your group. The city-cruiser has a plethora of options for their urban escapade from the short, but popular Santa Rose Creek and Prince Memorial Greenway trails to the scenic 13.5-kilometer (8.5 mile) long Joe Rodota Trail.
For those looking for a challenge, Santa Rosa boasts some long-distance endurance trails. Two trails of interest are the 60-kilometer (36-mile) long “Back in the Saddle” line and the 125-kilometer (76-mile) Santa Rosa Napa Circle, both of which are sure to give you a great workout before you embark on a tour of the finest cuisine and wine Santa Rosa has to offer. In Santa Rosa, your bike tour is as customizable as your vacation. If you choose not to bring your own bike, there are plenty of bike rental companies in town. Additionally, should you be interested in a professionally guided tour, there are many bike outfitters in town whose local knowledge and expertise are sure to make your ride one remember.
Go for a ride!
13. Take a stroll around the garden
Amidst the hustle and bustle of city life are some of Sonoma County’s finest botanical gardens. Step off the concrete and into a flowery oasis for a peaceful escape from the excitement downtown. Experience a guided tour and a museum or simply take an hour out of your busy schedule to smell the flowers. Choose from a selection of local gardens for your next city escape.
Luther Burbank Home & Gardens
Address: 204 Santa Rosa Ave, 95404 Santa Rosa, CA
Website: Luther Burbank Home & Gardens
14. Float down the Russian River
Enjoy some family-friendly fun on the water during a beautiful summer day in Santa Rosa. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the stress-free environment of the great outdoors. Local outfitters will supply all of the equipment you need for your flat-water canoe adventure on the Russian River – the lifeline of California’s wine country.
Take a self-guided 16-kilometer (10-mile) canoe trip and appreciate the beauty of Santa Rosa’s natural landscape at your own pace. A half day, full day, or multi-day camping trip down the river is certain to be the perfect addition to your urban vacation. Canoe rental, campsite reservations, and shuttles to the riverfront are available through local outfitters.
Canoe and kayak in Sonoma County
Website: Canoe and Kayak in Sonoma County
15. Sit back and enjoy the music
For a truly world-class musical experience, spend a night at the Green Music Center at Sonoma State University. Home to the Santa Rosa Symphony, the Center is the musical core of the bustling city. Go online or head to the Box Office to get tickets for one of the many high-quality shows at the Center.
In the summer, the Green Music Center turns into a magical acoustic experience, complete with lawn seating surrounded by the beautiful Sonoma Valley landscape. Bring your own picnic meal or enjoy wonderfully catered meals and platters while you enjoy music and entertainment by artists in Santa Rosa, California, and beyond. It’s certainly an experience you won’t want to miss.
Green Music Center
Address: 1801 E Cotati Ave, 94928 Rohnert Park, CA
Website: Green Music Center
16. Shop and stroll in downtown Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa is home to a number of beautiful, pedestrian-friendly shopping centers, complete with small shops, restaurants, and hotels. Visit downtown, one of the best places to go in Santa Rosa, for a chance to walk and shop in some of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. In the heart of Santa Rosa’s old town lies the historic Railroad Square. Once the center of city life in 1870s Santa Rosa, today’s historic Railroad Square boasts a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cafes perfect for every visitor.
Easily accessed by the newly installed Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) rail line and bicycle-pedestrian pathway, the historic Railroad Square is a perfect pit-stop during your city cycling or walking tour, or a worthy destination onto itself. Stop by to window shop or enjoy lunch at one of the Square’s many fine eateries or enjoy a show at the 6th Playhouse performing arts theater in the heart of the square. The historic Railroad Square is the perfect destination for visitors looking to experience the storied history and vibrant culture of Santa Rosa.
Shop and stroll in downtown Santa Rosa
Address: 135 4th St, 95401 Santa Rosa, CA
Website: Historic Railroad Square
17. Drink up! Visit California’s famous wineries (from USD 103.0)
The vineyards of the Sonoma and Napa Valleys are world famous. Whether you are looking for an afternoon of wine tasting, vineyard tours, or an all-inclusive winery vacation, there is a California winery experience for everyone. For those looking to visit multiple wineries, consider a guided wine and food tour, specifically designed to suit your group’s distinct tastes, or, book a night or two at a local winery for the complete culinary and vineyard experience.
Is beer your drink of choice? Luckily, in addition to world-class vineyards, Santa Rosa has a booming craft beer and distillery industry sure to suit everyone’s tastes. Create your own trip itinerary from the amazing selection of local taprooms or book a guided tour for the ultimate experience.
Sonoma County Brewery Tour Including Behind-the-Scenes Access
Duration: 6 hours
Drink up and have a good time in Santa Rosa
Regardless of your interests, Santa Rosa will have something for you. Soak up some fresh California sunshine, enjoy locally made wine, and experience the best of Sonoma County with these ten activities!
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