Welcome to Sonoma

The town of Sonoma sits at the southern end of Sonoma Valley, anchored by the largest plaza in California and steeped in a history that predates the state itself. This is where California's Bear Flag Republic was proclaimed in 1846, where some of the state's first wine grapes were planted, and where today you'll find a walkable town that balances genuine charm with world-class food and wine. Sonoma Sonoma is your guide to experiencing it all.

Wine Tasting

Around the Plaza

Sonoma's greatest advantage over Napa: you can walk between tasting rooms. Dozens of wineries and tasting rooms surround the Plaza and line the side streets, making it easy to explore multiple producers without a designated driver.

• Pangloss Cellars — Small-lot wines in a cozy tasting room one block from the Plaza
• Roche Winery — Estate-grown wines from the Carneros region, tasting room on the Plaza
• Sign of the Bear — Kitchen and gift shop with an excellent wine selection for take-home bottles

Sonoma Valley Wineries

Beyond the Plaza, the Sonoma Valley stretches north toward Glen Ellen and Kenwood, lined with vineyards and boutique wineries.

• Buena Vista Winery — California's oldest premium winery, founded in 1857
• Gundlach Bundschu — Family-owned since 1858, with a hillside amphitheater for summer concerts
• Benziger Family Winery — Known for biodynamic farming and an excellent tram tour through the vineyards

Dining

• The Girl & The Fig — Sonoma's most celebrated restaurant, serving Rhône-inspired cuisine on the Plaza
• Café La Haye — Intimate neighborhood restaurant with a seasonal California menu
• El Dorado Kitchen — Modern American fare in the El Dorado Hotel overlooking the Plaza
• Red Grape — Casual Italian with house-made pasta and pizzas, perfect for families
• Sunflower Caffé — All-day café with generous brunch plates and outdoor seating

Things to Do

Sonoma State Historic Park

The Plaza and surrounding adobe buildings tell the story of California's transition from Mexican to American rule. The Sonoma Barracks, Mission San Francisco Solano, and General Vallejo's home are all within walking distance.

Sonoma Farmers' Market

Held on the Plaza every Friday morning and Tuesday evening, the farmers' market brings together local produce, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods.

Cycling

The flat roads surrounding Sonoma are ideal for cycling between wineries. Several rental shops in town offer bikes and suggested routes through the valley.

Hiking

Sonoma Valley Regional Park and Jack London State Historic Park offer trails with views of the valley floor and surrounding mountains.

Lodging

• El Dorado Hotel — Boutique hotel directly on the Plaza with a rooftop pool
• MacArthur Place — Luxury hotel and spa set in a Victorian estate with gardens
• Sonoma Creek Inn — Affordable and cheerful, a short walk from the Plaza
• Cottage Inn & Spa — Intimate bed-and-breakfast with garden courtyards

Explore the town where California wine country began.