Explore the Area
From world-class wineries to scenic trails, here are some of our favorite activities
Wineries & Tasting Rooms
Dry Creek Valley is known for its Zinfandel and relaxed tastings, while Westside Road offers world class Pinot Noir and one of the most scenic drives in Sonoma—vineyards, redwoods, and the Russian River winding alongside you.
Here are some of our favorites in the area:
- Bricoleur Vineyards – Beautiful grounds and food-focused tasting experiences
- MacRostie Winery – Stunning views and highly regarded Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
- Martinelli Winery – Historic, family-run winery known for bold Zinfandels and Pinot Noir
- Benovia Winery – Small production wines with a focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
- Croix Estate – Boutique winery offering intimate tastings and modern wines (just down the street)
- Hook & Ladder Winery – Relaxed, approachable tastings with strong local roots
- Inman Family Wines – Organic farming and elegant, balanced wines
- Pellegrini (Olivet Lane) – Classic Russian River Valley wines with a long history
- Battaglini Estate Winery – Rustic, family-owned Italian-style winery experience
Nearby Towns
Strolling the streets and plazas of nearby towns is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. You’ll find great shopping, galleries, and tasting rooms throughout the area—so if you’re heading out for a meal, be sure to leave time to explore. Here are a few of our favorites:
Healdsburg
A charming and vibrant town centered around a historic plaza, Healdsburg is known for its exceptional dining, boutique shopping, and tasting rooms. Surrounded by vineyards, it offers a perfect blend of sophistication and small-town charm.
Windsor
A relaxed, family-friendly town with a welcoming town green, Windsor offers casual dining, local wineries, and community events. It’s a great spot for an easy afternoon or a laid-back evening out. Our favorite grocery store, Oliver’s, is in Windsor.
Kenwood
Nestled along Highway 12, Kenwood is a quiet gateway to Sonoma Valley, known for its scenic beauty and access to some of the region’s top wineries. It feels tucked away while still offering excellent tasting opportunities.
Sebastopol
An eclectic, creative town with a strong farm-to-table culture, Sebastopol blends art, agriculture, and food. You’ll find great bakeries, restaurants, and a more laid-back, local feel. We particularly love the Barlow.
Graton
Tiny but full of character, Graton is known for its charming main street, standout restaurants, and proximity to vineyards. It’s a hidden gem with a distinctly local vibe. Just a few galleries, a very nice tasting room (especially when the weather is warm) and one of our favorite restaurants, Underwood. Willow Wood is also great for lunch or brunch.
Forestville
A peaceful riverside town surrounded by redwoods and vineyards, Forestville offers a slower pace and easy access to the Russian River. It’s ideal for relaxing, picnicking, or starting a day outdoors. We recommend the local bakery, Nightingale, Sonoma Pizza Co and Canneti Roadhouse.
Guerneville
Guerneville is a small bohemian village on the Russian River. In the summer, it’s a great spot for lunch and/or a day on the river. You can rent tubes or kayaks or beach chairs at Johnson’s Beach. Stumptown Brewery has a great deck for lunch on the river. For dinner, check out Boon Eat + Drink or Dawn Ranch (bit more upscale). Nimble & Finn‘s has great ice cream and the cocktails at El Barrio are fantastic.
