Looking for a place to get away from it all? Then look no further than Santa Rosa, California!
This beautiful city is located in the heart of Sonoma County and is surrounded by stunning scenery.
From the rolling hills to the pristine beaches, Santa Rosa has it all.
In addition to its natural beauty, Santa Rosa is also home to a number of great restaurants, shops, and attractions.
You can explore the historic downtown district, visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum, or just relax at Sonoma Coast.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, Santa Rosa is the perfect destination.
With that said, here are 16 fun things to do in Santa Rosa on your next visit.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
1. Explore the Magnificent Charles M. Schulz Museum
Santa Rosa, a charming town in Sonoma County, is a favorite tourist destination for those seeking to explore everything the county has to offer.
And while there are many things to see and do in Santa Rosa, one of the most popular attractions is the Charles M. Schulz Museum.
Dedicated to the creator of the beloved Peanuts comics, the museum houses a collection of original artworks, artifacts, and exhibits that chronicle the life and work of Schulz.
You can also take part in educational workshops and programs, or simply enjoy a stroll through the museum’s grounds.
Whether you’re a die-hard Peanuts fan or just looking for things to do in Santa Rosa, the Charles M. Schulz Museum is definitely worth a visit.
2. Picnic Among Ducks & Geese at Howarth Park
Santa Rosa’s Howarth Park is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic with friends on a warm, sunny day.
The park is home to a variety of ducks and geese, which are always fun to watch as they waddle around and play in the water.
The picnic area is also surrounded by beautiful trees and flowers, providing a lovely setting for your meal.
In addition, there are plenty of benches and tables available, making it easy to find a spot to sit and relax.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to enjoy some time alone or a lively spot to share a meal with friends, Howarth Park is sure to please.
3. Enjoy the Unique Plants at Luther Burbank Home & Gardens
Luther Burbank was a world-renowned horticulturist, and his gardens in Santa Rosa are a must-see for any plant lover.
The gardens feature over 150 varieties of roses, as well as a wide variety of other flowers, trees, and shrubs.
You can also tour the restored Victorian home where Burbank lived and worked.
In addition to the beautifully landscaped gardens, the property also includes a research library and an exhibit on the history of horticulture.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just looking to enjoy some beautiful flowers, Luther Burbank Home & Gardens is sure to please.
4. Explore the Historic Downtown Santa Rosa
Historic downtown Santa Rosa is a great place to explore. There are many historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
You can start your exploration at the Santa Rosa Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is located in the historic Hinman House.
The Hinman House was built in 1854 and is one of the oldest buildings in Santa Rosa.
From the Visitor Center, you can pick up a map of the downtown area. The map will help you find your way to some of the other historic landmarks.
For example, you can visit the 1903 Ca’ d’Zan Mansion or the 1910 Old Courthouse.
You can also explore the shops and restaurants that line Fourth Street. Be sure to stop for a bite to eat at one of the many cafes or restaurants.
Historic Downtown Santa Rosa is a great place to spend a day exploring!
5. Relax at Spring Lake Regional Park
Spring Lake Regional Park in Santa Rosa is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
There are plenty of things to do, including swimming, hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
The park also has a playground, a dog park, and a golf course.
Spring Lake is a beautiful place to take a walk or have a picnic, and it’s also a great place to cool off on a hot day.
Since the park is accessible all year round, there is always something to do. whether you want a spot to unwind or go on an adventure.
6. Spend a Day at Safari West Wildlife Preserve
Safari West is a wildlife preserve located in Santa Rosa, California.
You can see animals from all over the world, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and rhinos.
The best way to experience Safari West is to take a safari tour.
During the tour, you’ll get up close and personal with the animals while learning about their ecology and behavior.
You can also choose to add on a “behind-the-scenes” tour, which gives you a peek into how the staff cares for the animals.
Whether you’re an animal lover or just looking for a unique experience, spending a day at Safari West is sure to be memorable.
7. Visit the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Santa Rosa is home to many great attractions, but one of the best things to do in the city is to visit the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve.
The reserve is home to some of the tallest redwoods in the world, and it’s a truly breathtaking sight.
You can explore the woods on a variety of hiking trails, and there are also picnic areas and ranger-led programs.
The reserve is open every day from sunrise to sunset, and there is no charge for admission.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for something different to do, a visit to the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is sure to be a memorable experience.
8. Take a Stroll Through Annadel State Park
Looking for a place to get away from it all?
Then come take a stroll through Annadel State Park in Santa Rosa.
With over 5,000 acres of wilderness to explore, this is the perfect place to get back to nature.
From hiking and biking trails to kayaking and fishing, there’s something for everyone.
And best of all, the park is just a short drive from downtown Santa Rosa.
So what are you waiting for? Come on out and enjoy the great outdoors!
9. Check Out Snoopy’s Ice Skating Rink
Looking for a fun festive activity with the family this winter?
Then be sure to check out Snoopy’s ice skating rink in Santa Rosa!
This popular attraction features a regulation-size rink that is perfect for beginners and experienced skaters alike.
There is also a snack bar on-site, making it the perfect place to refuel after an afternoon of skating.
Best of all, Snoopy himself makes regular appearances at the rink, providing plenty of photo opportunities for everyone.
So whether you’re looking to brush up on your skating skills or just have some fun, Snoopy’s ice skating rink is the perfect destination.
10. Shop at Santa Rosa Plaza Mall
Santa Rosa Plaza is the perfect place to find everything you need in one convenient location.
Need a new wardrobe? Check out Macy’s, JCPenney, or Forever 21.
Hungry? Grab a bite to eat at Johnny Rockets, Subway, or Cinnabon.
You can even catch a movie at the Regal Santa Rosa Stadium 12 and IMAX.
Santa Rosa Plaza makes shopping easy and fun. Plus, with our central location in Sonoma County, we’re just a short drive from anywhere in the Bay Area.
So next time you’re looking for a great shopping experience, be sure to head to Santa Rosa Plaza. We’ll be waiting for you!
11. Visit Trione-Annadel State Park
Trione-Annadel State Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly environment.
There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, from hiking and biking trails to picnicking and fishing.
The park also offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay Area, making it a great place to take photos or just relax and take in the scenery.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go for a swim in the park’s freshwater lake.
Whether you’re looking for a day of fun or a peaceful escape from the city, Trione-Annadel State Park is sure to please.
So why not add it to your list of must-visit destinations?
12. Hike Through Jack London State Historic Park
Jack London State Historic Park is a great place to take a hike and get some fresh air.
The park has over 14 miles of trails, and the trails wind through meadows, forests, and hills, providing stunning views of the surrounding area.
And, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of one of the park’s resident animals, including deer, coyotes, and bobcats.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Jack London State Historic Park is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors.
13. Take Your Kids to the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County
The Children’s Museum of Sonoma County is the perfect place to take your kids for a day of fun and learning.
With interactive exhibits on everything from science and art to history and culture, there’s something for everyone at the museum.
And best of all, admission is free for all children under the age of 18.
So whether you’re looking for an educational outing or just a fun day out with the family, be sure to check out the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County.
14. Spend the Day at Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square
Railroad Square in Santa Rosa is the perfect place to spend a day exploring and enjoying the best of what the city has to offer.
The square is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, as well as the historic Santa Rosa depot.
You can start your day by browsing the unique shops, grabbing a bite to eat, and then taking a walk through the art galleries.
The square is also home to a number of events throughout the year, including live music, farmers’ markets, and festivals.
No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at Railroad Square.
15. Visit the Sonoma Coast
The Sonoma Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline in northern California.
Santa Rosa is the perfect place to start your exploration of the Sonoma Coast. With its convenient location and variety of shops and restaurants, Santa Rosa is the perfect base for exploring the region.
Just a short drive from Santa Rosa, you’ll find beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and stunning vistas.
The Sonoma Coast is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of California.
So make sure to add it to your list of places to visit!
16. Experience the Pacific Coast Air Museum, Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa’s Pacific Coast Air Museum is a great place to experience aviation history.
The museum has an extensive collection of vintage aircraft, ranging from restored WWII bombers to rare fighter jets.
In addition to the aircraft on display, the museum has a wide range of interactive exhibits.
These include a flight simulator, which allows visitors to experience what it’s like to fly a military aircraft, and a hands-on restoration area, where You can learn about the process of bringing an old plane back to life.
The Pacific Coast Air Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in aviation history or simply looking for a fun day out.
