Things to Do

Make a weekend of it in beautiful Petaluma & Sonoma County

🍷 Wine & Spirits

  • HenHouse Brewing Consistently some of the best IPAs in Sonoma County. Relaxed warehouse vibe, frequent food trucks outside.
  • Lagunitas Brewing Co. The iconic Petaluma brewery. Taproom, food, brewery tours, live events, dog-friendly covered patio. Open daily.
  • Russian River Brewing Co. Home of the famous Pliny the Elder — widely considered one of the best double IPAs in the world. Their Windsor brewpub is worth the trip.
  • Rockpile Vineyards Chris actually used to work here! Known for bold red wines from the exclusive Rockpile AVA — one of Sonoma County's most rugged and elevated appellations.
  • J Vineyards & Winery Renowned for their sparkling wines and champagne. Beautiful estate in the Russian River Valley with elegant tastings and a bubble bar.
  • Pride Mountain Vineyards If you have time to go further out or arrive early, this astonishing winery sits right on the border of Sonoma and Napa with amazing views and a cool cave tour.

🍽️ Food & Dining

  • Table Culture Provisions The area's most acclaimed tasting menu. Hyper-seasonal, farm-to-table, genuinely one of the best in Sonoma County. Wed-Sat, reservations essential.
  • L'Oro Di Napoli Authentic Neapolitan in a beautifully designed space with an Italian alley aesthetic. The pistachio cake is a standout.
  • The Matheson A standout in downtown Healdsburg — great for a fun day trip. Multi-level restaurant with a rooftop bar, creative cocktails, and elevated wine country cuisine.
  • Auggie's A local favorite in downtown Santa Rosa. Great food, welcoming atmosphere, and a solid spot for a casual meal.

🌿 Outdoors & Nature

  • Helen Putnam Regional Park Rolling hills, oak groves, and panoramic views of Petaluma and surrounding mountains. A beautiful close-by hiking trail, dog-friendly with $7 parking.
  • Jenner A tiny coastal village where the Russian River meets the Pacific. Stunning ocean views, seals on the beach, and a gorgeous scenic drive to get there.
  • Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve Walk among towering old-growth redwoods in this magical forest near Guerneville. Easy trails through ancient groves — a must-see if you love the outdoors.

🛍️ Shopping & Culture

  • Downtown Healdsburg A charming town square surrounded by fun boutique shops, tasting rooms, and galleries. Great for a leisurely afternoon stroll and a day trip.
  • Downtown Sonoma Historic plaza lined with boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and local eateries. A quintessential wine country experience.
Emma & Chris outdoors

Petaluma is a small town with a big heart. We hope you'll take some time to explore — and if you need recommendations, just ask!