Southern Sonoma County

Southern Sonoma County thrives on diversity, from world-class wineries and breweries to gourmet cheese makers and a world class race track. The main grape growing regions here are Sonoma Valley and Carneros, where great Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and various other varieties happily grow in the rolling vineyards. Located just 45 minutes north of San Francisco, it’s an easy day trip from the city. Check out this beautiful, friendly region and discover all it has to offer.

Don’t miss

Plan plenty of extra time for the lively wineries of Southern Sonoma County. Ledson Winery in Kenwood pours rich wines in a 17th century Normandy-inspired manor house, and Keller Estate Winery in Petaluma leverages the cooling breezes from the Petaluma Gap to make structured, elegant wines. Head over to the Lagunitas Petaluma Brewery for brewery tours and on-tap beers. While you’re in Petaluma, make an appointment for a tour of the Achadinha Cheese Company , or look for their farmstead cheeses at many local restaurants and farmers markets.

Go beyond wine and food (if you have to) with a turn around the racetrack at Simraceway Performance Driving Center in Sonoma. For musicians, Sonoma State University’s Green Music Center in Rohnert Park features artists from around the world in year-round performances of classical, jazz, pop, and more. Window shopping aficionados love Sonoma Square in downtown Sonoma, packed with the kind of authentic, quirky, and friendly shops that make Sonoma the unique and beloved community that it is.

Sonoma

Located just an hour northeast of San Francisco, the city of Sonoma makes a great jumping off point for exploring Sonoma County.

Kenwood

Located 20 minutes southeast of Santa Rosa in Southern Sonoma County, the picturesque town of Kenwood is situated at the foot of the Sugarloaf Mountains. Kenwood draws visitors to...

Glen Ellen

Beautiful Glen Ellen is tucked into the narrow canyon between Sonoma Mountain and the Mayacamas Mountain range in Southern Sonoma County. This quiet village is home to a few culinary gems and...

Petaluma

The riverfront city of Petaluma is situated directly off Highway 101 in Southern Sonoma County. Petaluma retains an old-school charm apparent in the downtown area.

Rohnert Park / Cotati

Located one hour north of San Francisco, family-friendly Rohnert Park is in Southern Sonoma County. The town is home to diverse culinary offerings, boutique shops and galleries, and an assortment of fun-loving activities for the whole family.