Santa Rosa
Wine Country Charm and Snoopy Too...
Santa Rosa may not be one of the first destinations that comes to mind when San Joaquin Valley readers think of a wine country getaway, but in our eyes it should be. We’ve always enjoyed visiting Santa Rosa for the antique shopping at historic Railroad Square, but only recently did we get the chance to actually explore this diverse Sonoma County city. When compared to staying in Napa or Sonoma, Santa Rosa has a charm that’s all its own. More unique options are available when it comes to activities and attractions, and lodging prices are more moderate. As for wine tasting, there are numerous wineries nearby, and unlike Napa and Sonoma, many offer complimentary samplings.
PLAY
One of our favorite local wineries is Paradise Ridge (www.prwinery.com), where panoramic vistas of the Russian River Valley and coastal mountains compliment their award-winning wines. The winery is also home to a sculpture garden that changes yearly and features sculptures by over twenty Northern California artists. Another favorite vintner in Santa Rosa is Matanzas Creek Winery (www.matanzascreek.com), owned by Jess Jackson of Kendall Jackson fame. This winery is especially known for their Merlots and Chardonnays, and their beautiful lavender gardens.
Back in town, visitors can see the lasting influence that Charles Schulz has had on Santa Rosa. Humorous reminders of the late cartoonist, creator of the world-famous “Peanuts” cartoon strip, T.V. shows, and movies, can be found all over the county’s largest city—and we mean everywhere. Due to a three-year fundraising project, over fifty creatively painted statues of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Woodstock can be found at shopping centers, office buildings, public parks, and other sites. The Charles M. Schulz Museum (www.schulzmuseum.org) is a must-visit even if you’re not yet a “Peanuts” fan. The museum’s exhibits include most of Schulz’s original drawings, showings of his animated T.V. specials in the big screen theater, and his colorful studio/office that was moved intact from its original site.
For an outdoor adventure, visit Santa Rosa’s wild animal park, Safari West (www.safariwest.com). We’ve visited many wild animal sanctuaries throughout the world, and this 400-acre home to hundreds of exotic animals and birds stands out as one of the best. Reservations are required for admission, the guided stroll around the grounds, and an authentic safari vehicle tour of the “Sonoma Serengeti,” featuring giraffes, zebras, cape buffalos, gazelles, and wildebeests, among other animals—the newest addition is two White Rhinoceroses from South Africa. If possible, stay overnight in one of the on-site luxury tent cabins, and enjoy the rustic ranch setting and barbeque-style dining.
Santa Rosa was one of the inaugural host cities for the Amgen Tour of California (www.amgentourofcalifornia.com), a world-class, 666-mile bicycle race won the last two years by Levi Leipheimer, a Santa Rosa resident. The next nine-day event arrives in Santa Rosa from Sacramento/Davis on Sunday, February 15, which happens to also be President’s Day weekend. Enjoy the exciting finish of the race along the downtown streets, including live music, a kids’ bike race, and festival vendors in the Courtyard Square area.
SHOP
Historic Railroad Square (www.railroadsquare.net), an easily-walkable, four-block, square area, is the oldest section of town, developed in the 1870s and listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Known for antiques and unique home décor and furniture, we love that you can find quirky items on the same street as running shoes and art for the home. Check out Whistle Stop Antiques, with over thirty unique antique dealers, a vintage bookstore selection, and estate jewelry. Funky boutique Hot Couture features vintage clothing and jewelry for both men and women. Post-shopping, enjoy the Vineyard Creek Hyatt’s courtyard, where locals and visitors alike congregate around benches, beautifully potted trees, and a built-in fire pit.
EAT
For many years, the best dining in Santa Rosa has been legendary Zagat favorite, John Ash & Co., located in the Vintners Inn (www.vintnersinn.com), and their highly regarded culinary tradition continues. The vineyard next door dramatically enhances this award-winning wine country cuisine. For those who enjoy a fine dining experience in a historic setting, Ca’Bianca (www.cabianca.com), near downtown, is another first-rate choice. Located in an 1876 Victorian, their authentic Italian fare should prove to be a popular decision.
Steak and chop lovers should check out Stark’s Steak House (www.starkssteakhouse.com) in the Railroad Square area, the best Northern California steak house we’ve enjoyed outside San Francisco in the last few years. Also owned by the Stark Restaurant Group, Willi’s Wine Bar (www.williswinebar.net) on Old Redwood Highway features creative ‘small plates’ with an international flair, and Monti’s Rotisserie and Bar (www.montisroti.net), located in the Montgomery Village Shopping Center, features local meats and produce. Monti’s is one of the rare restaurants that offer all their wines by the glass or 2 oz. tastings.
For evening entertainment, especially for blues music aficionados, head to the Last Day Saloon (www.lastdaysaloon.com) in Railroad Square for live entertainment, reasonable eats, and an off-beat atmosphere at this locals hangout. When we were in town, famous blues star Charlie Musselwhite was headlining. Be sure to check for a schedule of upcoming entertainment.
STAY
The Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel and Spa (www.vineyardcreek.hyatt.com) is the premier large hotel of choice in Santa Rosa. This four-star property boasts an expansive pool area, sculpture garden, first-class spa, and their central courtyard with a beautiful fire pit. The Mediterranean architecture and decor make this the go-to spot for any getaway.
An upscale lodging experience, the beautiful Vintners Inn (www.vintnersinn.com) is located on the outskirts of town. Luxurious wine country décor lends itself to accommodations that are quite comfortable, and the complimentary continental breakfasts are an added plus. This intimate, forty-four room property, surrounded by 92 acres of vineyards, exemplifies the wine country lifestyle. Be sure to take a walk or jog on their two-mile vineyard path.
For those who prefer historic hotels, the vintage La Rose Hotel (www.hotellarose.com), in the heart of Railroad Square and within easy walking distance of downtown, is a perfect pick. This charming property, built in 1903, has been updated with modern conveniences but maintains its historic ambience. The staff is exceptional and the rooms quite comfortable.
If you prefer a B&B, visit the Melitta Station Inn (www.melittastationinn.com), another historic property, opened around 1889. This former stagecoach stop’s rural setting outside the downtown area adds considerably to its charm. Walks around nearby Spring Lake, a Santa Rosa city park, and hikes into Annadel State Park, just across the road, are reasons enough to consider the Melitta. Owned and operated by a hospitable British couple, the inn features complimentary afternoon tea and homemade scones, and the English breakfast specialties are exceptional.
If you go: For more information about Santa Rosa lodging, dining, activities, and other attractions, visit www.visitsantarosa.com.
The Jacksons have been writing travel articles together for nearly twenty-five years and have traveled throughout California, the U.S., Canada, and many countries worldwide. Don is President Emeritus of the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association.
