The Town of Sonoma

Experience the rich history of Sonoma County by taking a trip to The Town of Sonoma, where historical significance coexists with the quintessential Sonoma wineries, like the Buena Vista Winery, California’s oldest winery, and Gundlach-Bundschu, the state’s oldest continually operating family winery.

Explore Things to Do in Sonoma with Nick

Sonoma City Hall, Cullen328, CC BY-SA 3.0.

Featuring Rich Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty

Sonoma is a prominent home in California history because it serves as the economic hub for the rural Sonoma Valley, which has a total population of 40,000. If you’re looking for a friendly, small-town feel and an involved citizenry, you have come to the right place in Sonoma.

Explore the Best Wineries in Sonoma with Nick

Sonoma’s Local Lifestyle

Sonoma is home to more than 11,000 residents who partake in the town’s rich history of winemaking. Buzzing with arts and culture, locals are always inspired to join brew pubs, art galleries, and shopping in the downtown area. Visiting the historic theater located around the Sonoma Plaza, the largest eight-acre town square in California, brings nothing but bliss into the hearts of the Sonoma locals.

Explore More

Famous Landmarks in the Town of Sonoma

Sonoma Valley overflows with these historical sites, mainly on the Plaza or within walking distance. You can park your car and enjoy the walk from one historic site to the next.



The Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma. Founded on July 4, 1823, Mission Solano marks the end of the mission trail. It is the last and northernmost of the 21 Franciscan missions along the California Coast.



Sonoma Barracks. Built by General M. G. Vallejo in 1846, it became the headquarters of the Bear Flag Party and housed Mexican soldiers. Today, the Barracks dormitory is furnished just as it would have been in the 1840s.



Toscano Hotel. Next to the barracks, this wood-frame building was first home to a retail store and rental library in the 1850s. It was once named “Eureka Hotel,” but was later changed to “Toscano” as it became patron to many Italian immigrants.



La Casa Grande. This is General Vallejo’s first home, one of California’s most imposing and well-furnished private residences. However, only the low two-story servants’ wing stands today due to a fire in 1867.

Things to Do in Sonoma

The Town of Sonoma County offers a rich tapestry of activities, from arts and culture to exciting outdoor activities, that is beyond the wine glass.



Reconnect with nature at the Sonoma Botanical Garden and experience the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. You may hike, leisurely walk, or pick a picnic spot.



Shop at home decor stores in Sonoma, like Artefact Design & Salvage, which has a wildly eclectic and whimsical collection for all artists. You can check out their custom designs, architectural salvage, sculptures, antiques, lighting, and displays.



If you’re looking for the ultimate culinary experience, look no further and indulge your tastebuds at the Sonoma Plaza, the old town square and the largest of its kind in California. Here, you can try Sonoma Valley agricultural specialties, including world-renowned cheeses and wines.