The Top Things To See And Do In Sonoma California

Sonoma is one of the top wine-making regions in the world, but there’s so much more to this part of California than the art of wine. History, culture, thrills and delicious treats await within Sonoma Valley.

You can visit the Sonoma Valley as part of Culture Trip’s seven-day small-group Northern California tour, led by our local insider.

1. Race down Sonoma Raceway

Sports Center

Sonoma Raceway is a year-round motor sports complex, 2.5mi (4km) road course and drag strip offering a comprehensive schedule of events, races and more. On Wednesdays, you can even race your own ride down the drag.

2. Visit Tuscany at the Viansa Winery and Tasting Room

Winery

Visit this Italian-style winery to taste wonderful wine and culinary deliciousness. If you’re hungry, try the pizzas cooked on a wood-fire oven or pop into the deli for a charcuterie board. You’re here for the drinks, though, so embark on a wine-tasting tour or book a private wooden hut for a more intimate sampling.

3. Get spooked on the Sonoma Plaza Ghost Walking Tour

Architectural Landmark

City Hall of Sonoma at the center of Sonoma Plaza, California, USA

Not only does Sonoma possess a rich history, but there are also quite a few ghost stories to be told here. Try a Ghost Tour, beginning at Sonoma Plaza in the evening. You’ll spend two hours walking, guided by two paranormal investigators, learning about and uncovering known haunted spots and the darker history of Sonoma.

4. Ride the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley

Winery

The Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley is a six-hour ride through four boutique wineries. Kick back in an open-air cable car while enjoying private tastings, not to mention a beautifully catered lunch accompanied by scenic wine country views, all with a winery representative as your guide.

5. Take in history at Mission San Francisco Solano

Historical Landmark

Mission San Francisco Solano was one of 21 missions founded by Friar Junipero Serra and is now a museum and part of a state park. The property consists of naturally growing cacti, a lovely fountain and horse stables. Admission to the museum also allows entry to the Sonoma Barracks across the street and the Vallejo House a few blocks away.

6. Enjoy sampling at the Olive Press

Shop

The Olive Press, the first olive mill in Sonoma, has created some of the most highly awarded olive oil in the US. Taste the fresh and tongue-dazzling oil at a tasting, and see how the oil is made. Belly stuffed? Pop over to the property’s winery to wash it all down.

7. Feel like a kid at Sonoma TrainTown

Amusement Park

Although TrainTown is mostly geared towards children, adults will also enjoy themselves at this playful stop. The fun begins with a delightful train trip through tunnels and bridges to reach the miniature town of Lakeview, which features a petting zoo, roller coaster and merry-go-round.

8. Drive out to Sonoma Coast State Beach

Natural Feature

Salmon Creek Beach, Sonoma Coast, California

The drive out to Sonoma Coast State Beach is well worth it. This is a great place for hiking, fishing and other nature-centric activities. Pack a lunch, pile friends in the car and get ready for a beautiful drive and day at the beach.

9. Get a rush at Sonoma Canopy Tours

Sports Center

Adrenaline junkies flock to Sonoma Canopy Tours to hook up to one of seven ziplines and sky bridges. Ziplines can reach up to 40mph (64kph) and you can choose to soar and climb across different courses. All this takes place among humbling California redwoods, which you can also learn about during your visit.

10. Take a Segway Winery Tour

Winery

Ever wondered what it’s like to ride a Segway around town? Take a Segway Winery Tour to find out. After a lesson downtown, join an experienced guide and whizz through Sonoma between tasting rooms on beautiful estates, a cheese factory and a beautiful picnic-style lunch while taking in the countryside views along the way.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

The Top Things To See and Do in Sonoma, California

Sonoma is one of the top wine-making regions in the world, but there’s so much more to this part of California than the art of wine. History, culture, thrills and delicious treats await within Sonoma Valley.

1. Race down Sonoma Raceway

2. Visit Tuscany at the Viansa Winery and Tasting Room

3. Get spooked on the Sonoma Plaza Ghost Walking Tour

4. Ride the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley

5. Take in history at Mission San Francisco Solano

6. Enjoy sampling at the Olive Press

7. Feel like a kid at Sonoma TrainTown

8. Drive out to Sonoma Coast State Beach

9. Get a rush at Sonoma Canopy Tours

10. Take a Segway Winery Tour

Read Next

Places to Stay

The Best Hotels to Book in Sonoma, California, for Every Traveler

Food & Drink

Explore California's Sonoma Valley in a Wine Van

Places to Stay

The Best Resorts and Places to Stay for Your Vacation in Sonoma, California

Places to Stay

The Best Hotels to Book Near the Sonoma Raceway

Culture Trip Spring Sale

Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.