The Museums of Sonoma County, located in downtown Santa Rosa, consists of two museums, and together they stand in appreciation to Sonoma County's unique history, art and culture. The museums have over 25,000 exhibits of regional artistic and historic articles like wooden furniture, paintings, ceramics, documents, photographs and much more. The museums host a number of programs for children and families to educate them on art and local history. Tours are conducted to some of the area's historic sites. You can also visit the museums' shop where there is a large selection of creations from local artists.
Located in the heart of Sonoma Valley, St. Francis has a talented wine-making team that focuses on producing high-quality varietals from hand-harvested grapes. Its two wine clubs give you the opportunity to sample new wines that are not available in retail stores and restaurants, while the Visitor Center offers a fantastic view of the mountains and vineyards (it can also be booked for weddings and other family functions). A knowledgeable staff is at hand to guide you through the intricate details of wine-making.
If you love Peanuts (the comic strip), this is your paradise. From Schulz's original works to his witty quotes, you will find it all. Designed by David Robinson, the museum reflects Schulz's personality and style - modest, low key and comfortable. The area covers 27,384 square feet (8346.6 square meters) with permanent and temporary galleries, a 100-seat auditorium, classroom space and outdoor gardens and exhibits.
The Trione-Annadel State Park has more than one reason which makes it worthy of a visit. Spread across an area of 5,092-acre (2,061 hectares), the park is steeped in Native American history and is known for its volcanic rocks. Ecologically blessed with a diverse flora, the park is home to oak woodlands, maples, fir forests. Come spring, the park is blanketed in fully blossomed wildflowers.
The citizens of Santa Rosa have reason to be in a continually celebratory mood as their microbrewery of choice takes top honors nearly every year at Denver's Great American Beer Festival. Since its inception in 1997, it has won such accolades as “Small Brewing Company of the Year,” “Innovation in Craft Brewing” and "Large Brewpub Champion Brewmaster." Indeed, gold medal winners include such eloquently named brews as Damnation, Blind Pig and Pliny the Elder. Many of them can be found in pubs throughout the Bay Area, but the headquarters is a must-see destination. Russian River Brewing Company is also credited with inventing the Double India Pale Ale. The entire list of ales is fascinating, each of them unique in blend, texture and flavor. At the tap room, live music entertains crowds as they savor pizzas made thin, crisp and fresh.
Built by Peanuts comics creator Charles M.Schulz, the Snoopy's Home Ice is a renowned ice rink. Offering a number of activities like figure skating, the arena also offers opportunity people of all ages to wear their skates and have fun throughout the year. The arena is home to the Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament where 64 international hockey teams compete for a week.
The Petaluma Wildlife & Natural Science Museum has a huge collection of taxidermied animals as well as live animals, and is open to the public every Saturday. The property also includes an aviary, dioramas, and a fossil and mineral collection.
Sharpsteen Museum divides its exhibits between the work of Disney animator Ben Sharpsteen, his colleagues, and topics of local historical interest. Particular attention is given to Sam Brannan, California’s first millionaire, who gave the town its name. The Sharpsteen Museum's great strength is its focus on making the exhibits invariably interesting and amusing, featuring exhibits and dioramas that depict life in 19th-century Calistoga. Although there is no entry fee to the museum, donations are encouraged.
If you want wine made out of your choice of grapes in small quantities—like maybe just a barrel, then Judd's Hill is the place you need to visit. The winery is owned and managed by Finkelstein family on the principle of 'small is beautiful.' They are quite happy to make wines on a made-to-order basis and according to customer specifications. They have a wine club where members have additional benefits and are invited to Judd's Hill events in Napa Valley. A combination of art, heritage, finest grapes and hand crafted wines is what Judd's Hill is all about. Picturesque and sunny, a visit to this winery is a great way to spend a lovely afternoon.
Located on top of a mountain, Pride Mountain Vineyards is spread out over 235 acres (95 hectares) and due to its vantage point, offers stunning views of Sonoma County. Offering exciting varieties such as Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and more, the winery welcomes you to a tour of the estate and its most popular attraction, the caves. These caves lie about 50 feet (15 meters) below ground and the wine is aged in them in wooden casks. There are different, special, curated tasting sessions depending on location, so be sure to pick out your experience before visiting.
The Museums of Sonoma County, located in downtown Santa Rosa, consists of two museums, and together they stand in appreciation to Sonoma County's unique history, art and culture. The museums have over 25,000 exhibits of regional artistic and historic articles like wooden furniture, paintings, ceramics, documents, photographs and much more. The museums host a number of programs for children and families to educate them on art and local history. Tours are conducted to some of the area's historic sites. You can also visit the museums' shop where there is a large selection of creations from local artists.
If you love Peanuts (the comic strip), this is your paradise. From Schulz's original works to his witty quotes, you will find it all. Designed by David Robinson, the museum reflects Schulz's personality and style - modest, low key and comfortable. The area covers 27,384 square feet (8346.6 square meters) with permanent and temporary galleries, a 100-seat auditorium, classroom space and outdoor gardens and exhibits.