The Sonoma center is approximately the area of Downtown Sonoma and the area of Sonoma Town Hall.
Though the weather is generally mild, Sonoma still experiences four distinct seasons. There's also a natural cycle to the wine production here that you'll want to keep in mind if tours and tastings rank high on your to-do list.
Autumn is Sonoma's peak tourist season. This is due in large part to the wine crush that begins around the middle of August and typically lasts through October. Vineyards are particularly busy during this time, and local produce is abundant, making the area's famous farm-to-table dining even more appealing. The Sonoma Valley Vintage Festival, the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, and the Sonoma Wine Country Weekend all take place in autumn. Though average highs are still in the upper 80s in August, they dip to the 70s in October, making for a comfortable and pleasant visit all-around.
Winter is the best time to visit Sonoma if you're looking for bargain hotel prices. You'll find some of the best deals of the year between November and February. There's also a festive air to the wine country during this time. Holidays in Sonoma is an annual event featuring special winery dinners, boutique shopping, and Santa sightings. Check it out if you're looking for some unique gift ideas. Sonoma's Plaza features over 100,000 twinkling lights for the season, creating a cheerful backdrop for any vacation that's sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Spring brings the Sonoma International Film Festival in April. Temperatures rise steadily from average highs in the mid-60s during March to the mid to upper 70s in May. Spring festivals are abundant with the March Wine Road Barrel Tasting Weekends, the Sonoma Jazz Festival, and Hospice du Rhone in May.
Summer is a popular time to visit Sonoma as well. Average highs hover in the mid to upper 80s, while lows dip into the 50s. There are several events you can enjoy during this season, including Gay Wine Weekend in June and Sonoma's July 4 Celebration.
If you're looking for great discounts or packaged deals in Sonoma, you have a few options you can explore. Marriott Rewards members can accrue or cash in their points at the Lodge at the Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa. This hotel also offers discounts for AAA and CAA members, seniors, government employees, and military personnel.
If you're interested in a carefully curated vacation experience with special discounts built-in, try a luxury hotel like the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. This hotel offers a variety of special packages such as the Romance in Wine Country Package with rose petal turn down service, sparkling wine, and chocolate covered strawberries. Foodies will swoon over the Food & Wine Experience Package with an artisan cheese platter, wine country chocolates, and special dining experiences.
If you want something between a budget hotel and a pricey luxury resort, you can book a mid-priced room that's still packed with amenities. These local picks offer plenty of pampering for a reasonable price.
The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa offers a lower price than other spa hotels in the area, without skimping on any amenities. The full-service hotel spa offers everything from massages to astrology readings. The Carneros Bistro and the Bean & Bottle offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A buffet breakfast is also available for an added fee. If you're spending the day poolside, order light snacks and sandwiches right to your lounge chair. Guest rooms feature complimentary internet, convenient room service, and plush bath robes for a truly pampered stay.
The Inn at Sonoma is another mid-priced pick for the area. This boutique hotel has 19 guest rooms in the main building and eight rooms in the Vintners Cottage. Rooms feature cozy fireplaces and flat-panel TVs. Those in the Vintners Cottage also enjoy a jetted spa tub. You'll enjoy plenty of added value at this inn with a complimentary breakfast buffet, wine, hors d'oeuvres, and fresh cookies.
Many of Sonoma's great highlights are spread out over vast expanses. Carefully organized tours are one of the best ways to experience all that the valley has to offer. If you want to get plenty of exercise and fresh air during your vacation, consider a bike tour. There are several tour companies that supply you with everything you need. If you prefer a self-guided route, Wine Country Cyclery offers bike rentals and local maps to help you on your way.
Driving through wine country is always an option, but you can make your explorations more memorable with a train, airplane, or hot air balloon tour, all readily available in the area. Tour buses, vans, and limos are also on hand to give you a guided look at all the highlights.
Sonoma wine country offers countless opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. If you're looking for a memorable escape from the daily grind, book your visit now.
Below are reviews of the city of Sonoma, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Glen Ellen is the best! We have been going for years and love it there. The restaurants are spectacular (esp Golden Bear Station) and its quiet.
I love the town square, the shops, the restaurants the native plant nursery... the nature.
The convenience of the inn's location is excellent for walking to restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms.
Loved the Basque Cafe, Mary's Pizza on Sonoma Hwy, Sonoma Market Lunch, Skandia Bakery, La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant
Love Sonoma!
Many good restaurants and opportunities for wine tasting within a few miles also good ice cream and shopping opportunities.
Great wineries close by!
We visited the Gloria Ferrer and Buena Vista Wineries.
Charming city with nice restaurants. Easy walk.
Great restaurants and shops!
Beautiful area!
Sonoma has an incredible music scene with lots of venues and loads of talented musicians.
Cute and quaint!
Peaceful, safe and beautiful wine country.
A great little town!
Napa Wine Trail was an excellent experience!
Loved the restaurants; Sunflower, El Dorado, Girl and Fig, Cheese Shop! Shops are okay. So many wineries, too little time.
The quaint shops on and off the square
Very quite and cute...a great get away from the city.
Close proximity to San Francisco without being in the middle of it.