When people think of vacationing in Sonoma County, wine is usually the first thing that comes to mind — and for good reason. With more than 400 wineries, it’s a haven for wine lovers. But there’s so much more to Sonoma than just sipping on Chardonnay. Whether you’re traveling with family, skipping the alcohol, or simply craving a different kind of adventure, Sonoma County offers a rich variety of experiences that go well beyond the vineyard.
Here are some of the best things to do in Sonoma County besides going to wineries:
Explore the Redwoods at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Step into a lush forest filled with towering coastal redwoods — some more than 1,400 years old. Just north of Guerneville, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve offers easy walking trails, peaceful picnic areas, and a cool respite on a warm day. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and photographers. Make it a point to visit the tallest tree in the grove, the Parsons Jones Tree, which measures more than 310 feet high.
Discover Historic Towns
Stroll through charming towns like Healdsburg, Petaluma, and Sonoma Plaza. Browse antique shops, enjoy a coffee at a sidewalk café, or check out the local history museums. Many of these towns feature beautiful architecture, quaint boutiques, and friendly locals. Use our local recommendations page for Sonoma County as a guide to finding the best spots for your day of adventure!
Hang Out at Your Northern California Vacation Rental
There’s no better way to experience the wine country than from the comfort of a Northern California vacation rental. WC Lodging offers cozy cottages and homes with amenities like private pools, pet-friendly, vineyard views, waterfront, and more! Have a girls’ day in and book a mobile yoga service or private chef to elevate your stay and create precious memories.
Enjoy Farm-to-Table Dining
Even without the wine, Sonoma’s food scene is world-class. Surrounded by farmland, vineyards, and coastal waters, local chefs craft seasonal menus that highlight the freshest ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms, ranches, and artisanal producers. Make reservations for popular spots like The Girl & The Fig in Sonoma or Barndiva in Healdsburg for fresh, seasonal, and creative dishes that highlight local ingredients.
Explore Art & Culture
Visit local galleries, artist studios, and museums across the county. Downtown Healdsburg features over 20 different fine arts and crafts galleries, museums, and art attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy. The largest gallery in the area, the Paul Mahder Gallery, presents work from artists all over the world in an 8,500 square foot space.
See Northern California from New Heights
See Sonoma’s patchwork of vineyards, rolling hills, and meandering rivers from above with a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Sonoma Ballooning’s Join-In Flight takes you through a three to four-hour journey over Carneros, where you’ll fly across picturesque landscapes and rolling vineyards. At the end of your journey, you can choose to join in on the complimentary post-flight celebration.
Relax in Natural Hot Springs
Nestled under beautiful large oak trees and surrounded by meadows and rolling hills, the Morton’s feature three geothermal mineral spring pools that range in temperature from 90° F to 95° F. There is a spring-fed pool (diving pool) that ranges from four feet to nine feet deep, a family pool that varies in depth from two feet to five feet, and a geothermal wading pool, perfect for those with infants and toddlers. Reservations are highly recommended as most weekends are sold out.
Shop Local at Farmers Markets
Sonoma County is known for its agriculture, and local markets showcase everything from organic produce to handmade crafts. The Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market and the Healdsburg Farmers Market are great spots to grab a picnic lunch and meet local growers and artisans.