If you think a trip to Sonoma County is just about belly-up-to-the-bar wine tastings, you are missing out on some of the most magical, unexpected adventures Northern California has to offer.
We are always finding new things to do in this spectacular region. Honestly, spring here is absolutely stunning with everything in full, vibrant bloom—but anytime of year is a good time to visit. I love flying up to Santa Rosa on Alaska Airlines straight from San Diego; it’s a quick, seamless flight that drops you right in the heart of wine country. (I’m honestly just waiting for the Petaluma or Santa Rosa tourism board to hire me at this point so I can provide them with unlimited content!)
If you want to skip the standard itinerary and experience the truly surprising side of Sonoma, here is the ultimate guide to an unforgettable trip filled with wild safaris, estate olive oils, Monet-style views, and vintage charm.
🚠 Take Flight: The Scenic Aerial Gondola at Sterling Winery
Just a short, beautiful drive over into Calistoga, you’ll find one of the most unique winery arrivals in the world at Sterling Winery. Inspired by the classic white architecture of Mykonos, this iconic hilltop estate requires you to take flight just to get to the tasting room!
You’ll hop into a modern, smooth aerial gondola that whisks you 300 feet up the hillside, offering incredible 360-degree panoramic views of the valley floor, surrounding vineyards, and the rugged mountains. Once you reach the summit, the sweeping terraces and delicious wines make the ascent completely worth it.
Pro Tip: You must buy your ticket online before you go. The good news is that it’s incredibly easy to snag last-minute trips right on your phone while you’re out exploring!
🦒 Wake Up in the Wild: Glamping at Safari West
Yes, you can go on a full-blown African-style safari right in Santa Rosa! Safari West is a 400-acre wildlife preserve home to rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs. But the absolute best way to experience it is by booking one of their luxury glamping tents.
We stayed in a tent positioned right on top of the hill, which gave us a beautiful, sweeping view of the property. Now, don’t let a little weather deter you. Despite it raining and being quite cold during our stay, we simply put the heavy-duty tent flaps down, turned on the cabin’s space heater, and we were totally fine and cozy. Falling asleep to the distant sounds of wildlife and waking up to the mist rising over the hills is an experience you won’t soon forget.
🌸 A View Out of a Painting: Coursey Graves Winery
Next, head up the winding roads of Bennett Mountain to Coursey Graves. This boutique winery feels like stepping directly into a French impressionist masterpiece.
The estate features breathtaking, Monet-style gardens complete with a handmade bridge over a serene lake, framed by a sea of colorful flowers and hillside vineyards. Perched 1,500 feet up, the panoramic views are unmatched. While you soak in the scenery, you can sip on their estate-grown wines—their Pinot Noirs are absolutely delicious, full of depth, and perfectly expressive of the rugged mountain terroir.
- Note: This is an intimate, private experience, so you must make a reservation in advance.
🫒 Coastal Hills & Liquid Gold: McEvoy Ranch
For a perfect palate cleanser between wine stops, make a reservation at McEvoy Ranch. Tucked into the rolling hills where Petaluma meets Marin, this 550-acre organic family farm is world-renowned for its estate-produced extra virgin olive oil.
Book a private tasting and secure a spot in front of their stunning, peaceful lake. Swirling and sipping their award-winning, Tuscan-style olive oils while looking out over the water and the orchards is pure bliss. They also have an incredible selection of small-lot wines and olive-oil-infused beauty products to browse before you leave.
- Note: Like Coursey Graves, this beautiful working ranch is by appointment only, so remember to book ahead!
🛋️ Vintage Shopping & Local Flavors in Petaluma
Wrap up your journey by spending a slower afternoon in historic downtown Petaluma. No reservations are needed here—just park the car and wander. Petaluma is a haven for antique lovers, packed with incredible vintage shops where you can hunt for mid-century modern furniture, estate jewelry, and quirky retro decor.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite from treasure hunting, make a stop for a caffeine kick and a sweet treat at… Della Fattoria! Located right on Petaluma Boulevard in a charming historic building, this legendary local bakery is famous for its artisan, naturally leavened breads and incredible pastries. Snag a seat, order a perfectly pulled espresso, and treat yourself to a seasonal galette or an almond croissant. It’s the absolute perfect finale to a Sonoma getaway.
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