Santa Rosa, nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, offers a delightful mix of cultural, outdoor, and culinary experiences. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, nature lover, or history buff, Santa Rosa has something for everyone. Here’s a list of 20 things to do in this charming city:
- Wine Tasting in Sonoma County: Explore the renowned wineries of Sonoma County, indulging in world-class wine tastings and vineyard tours.
- Charles M. Schulz Museum: Pay homage to the creator of Peanuts at the Charles M. Schulz Museum, showcasing the life and work of this beloved cartoonist.
- ** Luther Burbank Home & Gardens:** Wander through the historic home and gardens of Luther Burbank, a renowned horticulturist known for his contributions to agriculture.
- Annadel State Park: Hike, bike, or horseback ride through the scenic trails of Annadel State Park, offering diverse landscapes and beautiful reservoirs.
- Railroad Square Historic District: Discover the charm of Railroad Square, a historic district with boutique shops, galleries, and cozy cafes.
- Safari West: Embark on an African safari adventure at Safari West, a wildlife preserve where you can observe exotic animals in a natural habitat.
- Russian River Brewing Company: Sample award-winning craft beers at Russian River Brewing Company, known for its Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger brews.
- Redwood Empire Ice Arena (Snoopy’s Home Ice): Lace up your skates at Snoopy’s Home Ice, a classic ice rink featuring Peanuts-themed decor.
- ** Luther Burbank Center for the Arts:** Catch a live performance or art exhibition at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, a hub for cultural events in Santa Rosa.
- Historic Old Courthouse Square: Stroll through the Old Courthouse Square, surrounded by historic buildings, sculptures, and vibrant street art.
- Taylor Mountain Regional Park: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching in the expansive Taylor Mountain Regional Park.
- Charles Schwab Center for Science Education at the California Academy of Sciences: Engage in hands-on science exhibits and planetarium shows at this educational center.
- Brewery Tour: Explore Santa Rosa’s thriving craft beer scene with a brewery tour, visiting local favorites like Third Street Aleworks and HenHouse Brewing Company.
- Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park: Step back in time at the Petaluma Adobe, a historic park showcasing California’s Rancho era.
- Spring Lake Regional Park: Relax by the lake, go fishing, or rent a paddleboat at Spring Lake Regional Park.
- Shopping at Santa Rosa Plaza: Indulge in some retail therapy at Santa Rosa Plaza, a shopping destination with a variety of stores and dining options.
- Jazz on the Lawn: Enjoy live jazz performances during the summer at various parks and outdoor venues.
- Farmers Markets: Explore local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious treats at one of Santa Rosa’s farmers’ markets.
- Cotati Accordion Festival: Attend the annual Cotati Accordion Festival for a unique and lively musical experience.
- Sonoma County Museum: Immerse yourself in the region’s history and art at the Sonoma County Museum, featuring exhibits and collections that showcase the area’s cultural heritage.
From the vineyards to the redwoods, Santa Rosa invites visitors to savor its diverse offerings, creating lasting memories in this vibrant Californian city.