As the largest city in Sonoma County, Santa Rosa boasts a wide range of things to do for the whole family, in addition to an impressive dining scene to fit any occasion. With so much to do, see and eat, we’ve narrowed down some quintessential spots for an effortless, perfect day in Santa Rosa.
1. Start Your Day with a Delectable Breakfast
Begin your adventure at Marla Bakery (208 Davis St.), it’s clear tough decisions will have to be made. A savory caramelized onion-cheddar scone might be easier to nibble while wandering nearby Railroad Square, but the sticky buns also beckon. Maybe today’s the day to go for both.
Railroad Square is brimming with inspiration — you just have to be in the right mood to see it. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the neighborhood’s nooks and crannies offer up vintage vinyl and shoes and what’s said to be one of the largest yarn stores in the country.
2. Explore Santa Rosa’s Peanuts Heritage
No visit to Santa Rosa is complete without a trip to the Charles M. Schulz Museum (2301 Hardies Lane). Watch a timeless animated special in the theater, then seek firmer footing and a moment of calm in Snoopy’s outdoor labyrinth.
3. Indulge in Authentic Mexican Cuisine
For lunch, head to Mitote Food Park (665 Sebastopol Road). It offers up some of the best Mexican eats in Sonoma County. For lunch, feast on carnitas tlayuda at Antojitos Victoria or fish tacos at Pezcow. A stop at La Churroteka for a churro filled with chocolate is a must.
4. Unwind with a Scenic Wine Tasting
Santa Rosa is nestled in wine country, so a trip here wouldn’t be complete without some wine tasting. Drive east to Coursey Graves Estate Winery (6860 Serenity Way), just east of the city in Bennett Valley, unwind with a Bordeaux blend while taking in panoramic views of the Monet-inspired lily ponds and gardens. There’s even a Monet-style arched footbridge.
5. End the Day with a Memorable Dinner
Wrap up your day at Monti’s (714 Village Court), which reopened in the fall of 2024 after a major renovation. Spreads & Bread is fun to order with hummus, sweet and spicy eggplant, whipped beet feta and za’atar flatbread to share.
Discover the best ways to spend a day in Santa Rosa! Start with a delicious breakfast at Marla Bakery, explore the Peanuts Museum, enjoy authentic Mexican food at Mitote Food Park, sip wine at Coursey Graves Estate, and end with a cozy dinner at Monti’s. Plan your Santa Rosa adventure today!
