Sonoma County has always been a destination for world-class wine, scenic vineyards, and laid-back California charm. But this summer, there are even more reasons to plan a getaway.
From boutique hotels and exciting new restaurants to unique tasting experiences and outdoor adventures, Sonoma County continues to evolve while staying true to the relaxed lifestyle that has made it one of California’s favorite Wine Country escapes.
Here’s a look at some of the newest experiences worth adding to your itinerary.
🍷 Sip, Stay, and Unwind
Luxury travelers now have a new way to arrive in Wine Country.
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa has introduced its new Sky to Suite package, pairing private JSX flights from Southern California with a three-night stay, spa treatments, fine dining, and airport transfers. It’s designed to make getting to Sonoma almost as relaxing as being there.
Meanwhile, travelers looking for something more intimate can keep an eye on The Little Bohemian, an upcoming boutique retreat in Occidental that will feature just 13 guest rooms and mirrored Nordic-inspired cabins tucked into the hillside, creating a peaceful base for exploring Sonoma’s redwood forests and nearby coastline.
🍽️ Sonoma’s Food Scene Keeps Growing
One of the best ways to experience Sonoma County is through its restaurants, and this summer brings several exciting additions.
In downtown Healdsburg, Maréla European Coastal Bistro is introducing Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and Sonoma wines in an elegant yet relaxed setting.
Over in Sonoma Plaza, chef Ari Weiswasser has opened SMASH, a casual burger spot serving smashburgers, fried chicken sandwiches, milkshakes, and craft cocktails—perfect after a day of wine tasting.
And if you find yourself in Forestville, Rainy Day Chocolate now offers bean-to-bar chocolate tastings and hands-on decorating workshops, making it a sweet stop for families and chocolate lovers alike.
🌿 Experiences You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Wine tasting may be Sonoma County’s calling card, but there’s much more waiting to be discovered.
At Hawley Winery, visitors can now combine estate wines with an unforgettable falconry experience, walking the vineyards alongside trained birds of prey while learning about sustainable vineyard practices. It’s one of those uniquely Sonoma experiences that blends agriculture, conservation, and craftsmanship.
Art lovers can also explore Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Running Fence at 50 Years at the Museum of Sonoma County, celebrating one of Northern California’s most ambitious public art installations through immersive exhibits, original artifacts, and historic photography.
🚲 Beyond the Vineyard
There’s never been a better time to venture beyond the tasting room.
Hike beneath towering redwoods, float down the Russian River, explore the dramatic Pacific coastline, browse farmers markets bursting with seasonal produce, or spend an afternoon discovering charming towns like Healdsburg, Sebastopol, and Petaluma.
Summer in Sonoma County is about slowing down and enjoying the outdoors as much as it is about wine.
🎭 Mark Your Calendar
The summer calendar is packed with events.
Music lovers can enjoy Broadway Under the Stars, while wine enthusiasts can celebrate Gay Wine Weekend, which returns to Sonoma Valley this July with tastings, dinners, parties, and community events. Families won’t want to miss the beloved Gravenstein Apple Fair in August, a longtime Sonoma tradition celebrating local farms, food, and music.
✨ A Fresh Reason to Return
The beauty of Sonoma County is that every visit feels a little different.
One trip might revolve around vineyard hopping. Another might be all about hiking, art, farm-to-table dining, or discovering hidden gems tucked between the redwoods and the coast.
With exciting new hotels, memorable culinary experiences, and fresh ways to explore Wine Country, this summer offers the perfect excuse to plan your next Northern California escape.
Start planning your trip at https://www.sonomacounty.com/!