Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery

Though this historic inn offers plenty of quaint charm, expect a more lively atmosphere at the inn’s restaurant and pub, where you’ll find live jazz music nightly on the beautiful garden patio under the glow of bistro lights. After dinner, grab a pint at the Napa Valley Brewing Company, which occupies the historic water tower on the patio of the Inn before heading back to the pub for more revelry.

1250 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-4101

Where to Taste

Larkmead Vineyards & Winery

Originally founded in 1895, the historic Larkmead estate is one of oldest family-owned establishments in Napa Valley. The bright tasting room feels like the chic, country home of a design-savvy friend and, surrounded by 110 acres of vineyards, makes for a peaceful place to sample the winery’s acclaimed sauvignon blanc and cabernet sauvignon wines.

1250 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-4101

Sterling Vineyards

Perched up 300 feet and accessible by aerial tram, Sterling Vineyards offers various tasting options and educational tours, whether you’re a party of two, a family, or a large group. While the aerial tram makes for a unique experience, the panoramic views from the hilltop winery will leave a lasting impression along with their diverse wines.

1111 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515, (800) 726-6136

What to Do

Hit The Pool at Solage Calistoga

The five-star Solage Calistoga exudes wine country sophistication, and the ambiance at the chic pool is no exception. During the summer, the resort’s Pool Party series is a great way to soak up the sun, with rotating themes, a DJ spinning beats, and food and drink specials.

755 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 266-7531

Natural Hot Springs and Baths at Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

You don’t need to book a room to enjoy the calming effects of the outdoor mineral pool at Calistoga Hot Springs – though a stay here is a treat. Spa guests can enjoy the rejuvenating qualities of volcanic ash mud baths to massages and spend some time poolside (and bring a plus one for $25). The thermal water’s healing benefits will have you feeling at ease, whether you spend a whole day here or pop in for a quick dip.

1006 Washington St, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-6269

It’s easy to fall in love with the laid back pace and small-town charm of Calistoga, so if you feel like staying a while longer, we love the Calistoga Ranch, a luxury retreat tucked into a private canyon outside of Calistoga. Located on 157 acres surrounded by nature, it’s the ultimate place to hide away for a little R&R.

Santa Rosa

Where to Eat

Ca’Bianca Restaurant

Ca’Bianca is an intimate restaurant located in a restored Victorian home, and the cuisine is a blend of different regional foods of Italy. You’ll find house-made pasta, creative antipasti, seafood, and steak, all of which can be enjoyed in the charming, romantic ambiance of this historic gem.

835 2nd Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 542-5800

Dierk’s Parkside

Serving up what is arguably the best breakfast in town, Dierk’s is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Be sure to try Grandma Dierk’s Pull-A-Parts, which are fried dough balls dusted with cinnamon and sugar and oh-so-delicious, but you can’t go wrong with classics like buttermilk pancakes, savory benedicts, and hearty biscuits and gravy.

404 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 573-5955

Here are a couple other delicious Santa Rosa locations to dine and delight. John Ash & Co, located at the Vintners Resort, offers seasonally-driven Wine Country cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients in a romantic atmosphere and with an extensive wine list. Spinster Sisters feels right at home in Santa Rosa’s Arts District. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu features everything from house-made bagels with lox and wilted kale salad to Tortilla Española and red curry mussels, celebrating global flavors while highlighting the bounty of Sonoma County.

Where to Taste

Inman Family Wines

Owner and winemaker Kathleen Inman has made sustainability a driving force behind her winery, where energy efficient lighting, solar power, and recycled building materials line the winery inside and out. Arrange for a tasting in advance to enjoy the limited production wines, which include pinot gris, chardonnay, and pinot noir.

3900 Piner Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, (707) 293-9576

Thirsty for more? The boutique Donelan Family Vineyards specializes in cool-climate syrah, pinot noir, chardonnay, and Rhône wines – many from their estate vineyard. Or head to Deloach for a wide variety of organic and biodynamic estate and limited production wines sourced from throughout the Russian River Valley.

What to Do

Safari West

This 400-acre wildlife sanctuary is home to cheetahs, giraffes, monkeys, zebras, and more – nearly 90 different species to be exact – offering an unexpected, one-of-a-kind safari experience right in the heart of Wine Country.

3115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 579-2551

Other fun activities in Santa Rosa include a visit to the community supported Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, where you’ll find world-class performances, family shows, and community events. For a more adventurous experience, visit the wineries of West Sonoma by bike with Getaway Adventures. Cycling and wine? Now that’s a fun way to get out and explore the area.

Want to extend your time in Santa Rosa? If you’re in the mood to stay somewhere on the indulgent side, we love the romance and charm of Vintners Inn, with its serene gardens, surrounding vineyards, and luxurious accomodations.

Itinerary Two: Napa to Sonoma to Petaluma

Why stay put in Napa when Sonoma is just 13 miles away, and there are a plethora of great places to experience along the way. No need to stop there either, as you’ll want to keep driving towards Petaluma for even more tasty and worthy sights. We’ve got you covered with all the spots you’ll want to hit during your time spent venturing through both counties.

Napa

Where to Stay

Andaz Napa

Ideally situated right in the heart of downtown Napa, this 141 room boutique hotel offers a chic place to call home while in Wine Country, where you’ll enjoy relaxing on the outdoor terrace, savoring tasty bites at the farm-to-table restaurant, and resting your head on a plush bed in your loft-style room.

1450 1st Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 687-1234

Where to Eat

Angele Restaurant & Bar

Angele has been a staple in the Napa dining scene for many years and for good reason. This riverfront restaurant offers refined French-country fare in a classic, romantic atmosphere. Enjoy dishes like fried deviled eggs, foie gras mousse, and steamed mussels in white wine sauce. Bon appetit!

540 Main Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 252-8115

Where to Taste

Cuvaison Estate

Cuvaison Estate in Carneros offers a stunning place to sample chardonnay and pinot noir produced from their certified sustainable vineyards. The bright and airy tasting room offers panoramic views of the vines, so you can admire where the grapes come from as you sip.

1221 Duhig Road, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 942-2455

Compline Wine Bar

A wine bar, restaurant, and retail shop from two wine veterans (one being a Master Sommelier), this new downtown Napa spot offers a wide variety of interesting wines to sip on. And, since most bottles are priced between $10-$40, it’s easy to explore the world of wine regardless of your preferences.

1300 1st Street #312, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 492-8150

What to Do

Oxbow Public Market

Foodies will rejoice upon stepping inside the sprawling Oxbow Public Market, a 40,000 square foot marketplace featuring a wide range of delicious offerings from almost two dozen vendors. From ice cream and pastries to oysters and tacos, a fish market, butcher shop, and even a distillery, there’s truly something for everyone. Just be sure to bring your appetite, because it may be too hard to choose just one.

610 1st Street, Napa, CA 94559

Sonoma

Where to Eat

Fremont Diner

No visit to the area would be complete without a stop at this unassuming diner, where homestyle cooking meets high quality, seasonal ingredients for food that’s just plain delicious. The all-day breakfast includes items like french toast with homemade vanilla syrup and spicy fried chicken with waffles. We suggest finishing off your meal with a slice of pie.

2698 Fremont Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 938-7370

the girl & the fig

Located off the historic Sonoma Plaza, the girl & the fig has been dishing up French-inspired Wine Country cuisine since 1997 and has been a popular destination ever since. The menu changes often to reflect what’s in season, and the resulting food is both fresh and delicious.

110 W. Spain Street, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 938-3634

Other worthy dining options include El Dorado Kitchen inside El Dorado Hotel, where you’ll find an upscale ambiance, pleasant outdoor patio, and enticing California-Mediterranean fare. Down the street, Sunflower Caffé‘s health-minded menu features local and wholesome ingredients, accompanied by local wines and craft cocktails.

Where to Taste

Domaine Carneros

Designed after a French Chateau, Domaine Carneros is almost as popular for the photo opps as it is for the sparkling wine. Walk up the grand staircase to the sunny terrace, then enjoy your flight of bubbly while overlooking the surrounding vineyards below.

1240 Duhig Road, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 257-0101

The Sonoma/Carneros area is home to plenty more destination-worthy wineries, like the hip, laid-back Scribe Winery, lively Ceja Vineyards, and the bustling Viansa Sonoma, where you can purchase a picnic lunch and linger a while overlooking their stunning hilltop views.

What to Do

Sonoma Plaza

The historic Sonoma Plaza is a charming place for a leisurely afternoon spent shopping, snacking, and sipping. Stop into one of the many art galleries, sample local wine at a tasting room, or grab food at one of the restaurants lining the square. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself strolling around here for hours.

453 1st Street E, Sonoma, CA 95476

If you’re eager for more, check out the historic Mission San Francisco Solano – the last and northernmost of the 21 California Missions. Or if you’re up for a unique all-day tour of Wine Country, step inside the vintage, open-air Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley for a casual day of exploring and wine tasting.

With all there is to do in and around Sonoma, we wouldn’t blame you if you decided to spend a bit more time here. When you’re ready to call it a night, we suggest the over-the-top Sonoma Mission Inn, which boasts breathtaking grounds, luxury accommodations, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Petaluma

Where to Eat

Central Market

Housed in a building circa 1918 in the heart of downtown Petaluma, Central Market offers rustic California-Mediterranean food with an emphasis on farm-to-table fare. In addition to their bread, which they bake from scratch daily, everything is made in-house or grown from their own organic farm nearby.

42 Petaluma Blvd., Petaluma, CA 94952, (707) 778-9900

Where to Taste

Keller Estate Winery

Located in the Petaluma Gap with Mt. Tam in the distance, Keller Estate specializes in cool climate, estate-grown chardonnay and pinot noir. Tastings range from classic flights enjoyed in the tasting room to private tours of the cave and winery, the latter of which offers an inside look into the production facility and winemaking process and ends with a visit into the vineyard.

5875 Lakeville Hwy, Petaluma, CA 94954, (707) 765-2117

Lagunitas Brewing Company

Sonoma County isn’t short on places to taste wine, but when all you want is a cold beer, Lagunitas offers a welcome respite from the grape-based libation. Offering a large selection of beers on tap, tasty munchies, and live music, Lagunitas is a spirited place to kick back and enjoy a pint or three.

1113, 1280 N McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, CA 94954, (707) 778-8776

Looking for more? Don’t miss Adobe Road Winery in downtown Petaluma for small-lot, handcrafted wine.

What to Do

Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park

Surrounded by cacti and cattle, the park’s main attraction is the historic adobe building constructed in the early 19th Century, which gives an interesting look into California’s early days.

3325 Adobe Road, Petaluma, CA 94954, (707) 762-4871

Here are a few more things to do while in Petaluma. Stop by McEvoy Ranch for a taste of their exceptional olive oil or to attend a seasonal workshop. Who says you can’t do a little shopping while in Wine Country? Be sure to leave extra space in your bags for a visit to Petaluma Village Premium Outlets to pick up anything from running shoes to home goods.

For a place to rest your head after an epic day of exploring, the Metro Hotel & Cafe is an eclectic boutique hotel offering French charm with funky, playful details in the heart of Petaluma.