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Santa Rosa

California

Santa Rosa

A Perfect Day in Santa Rosa: Savoring the Heart of Sonoma Country

Travel Type: Easy | Estimated Time: 12 hours | Estimated Cost: $150 - $180

Santa Rosa, the heart of California's Wine Country, offers a captivating blend of scenic vineyards, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty. This itinerary is designed to maximize your time and enjoyment as you explore the city's highlights, from world-class wineries to historic sites. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, Santa Rosa promises an unforgettable day of discovery.

From its serene landscapes to its lively downtown, Santa Rosa is the ideal destination for a quick getaway that leaves a lasting impression. Join us as we uncover the best of Santa Rosa in just one day!

Full Itinerary

Extras

7:00 AM: Departure from San Jose

Mode of Transportation: Private vehicle or rental car

Route: Take US-101 N toward Santa Rosa

Travel Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Cost: $20 for gas (round trip)

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid traffic and maximize your day.

Day 1 image

9:00 AM: Breakfast at "The Naked Pig"

Location: Santa Rosa

Overview: Begin your day with a delicious farm-to-table breakfast at this cozy café. At The Naked Pig in Santa Rosa, the focus is on farm-to-table, locally sourced ingredients.

Pair any dish with their homemade chai latte or freshly brewed coffee for a complete experience! Check out their menu here!

Recommended Dishes: Piggy Platter, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, and Herbed Quiche

Cost: $15

Time Duration: 1 hour

Pro Tip: Try their homemade bacon for a delightful start to your day!

Day 2 image

10:00 AM: Visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum

Route Guide!

Location: 2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa, CA

Direction: 5-10 minute drive from the Naked Pig.

Overview: The Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center in Santa Rosa, California, celebrates the life and work of Charles Schulz, the creator of the beloved Peanuts comic strip. It's a must-visit destination for fans of Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the entire Peanuts gang.

List of Activities

  • Explore Main Gallery: View original Peanuts comic strips and Schulz’s creative workspace.
  • Watch Documentaries: Enjoy short films and documentaries about Charles Schulz's life and work in the museum's theater.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Participate in hands-on activities like drawing workshops and learning how comics are created.

Time Duration: 1.5 hours

Cost: $12 entry fee

Pro Tip: Don't miss the outdoor Snoopy labyrinth for a fun photo opportunity!

Day 3 image

11:30 AM: Tour Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens

Route Guide!

Location: Just outside Santa Rosa

Direction: 10-15 minutes drive

Overview: Enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting at Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens. Stroll through the stunning gardens and learn about sustainable winemaking practices.

List of Activities

  • Wine Tasting: Sample a selection of Kendall-Jackson’s finest wines, including their iconic Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
  • Garden Tour: Explore the meticulously maintained gardens featuring edible plants, herbs, and flowers, used in the estate’s culinary creations.
  • Food and Wine Pairings: Indulge in seasonal pairings prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the harmony of wine and food.

Time Duration: 2 hours

Cost: $30 per person (includes tastings)

Pro Tip: Reserve your spot in advance to avoid long waits.

Day 4 image

1:30 PM: Lunch at "The Spinster Sisters"

Location: 401 South A Street, Santa Rosa, CA

Direction: 10 minutes drive from Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens

Overview: Delight in a lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients at this popular eatery, offering contemporary American cuisine with global influences. Check out their menu here!

Recommended Dishes: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad, Charred Octopus, and Buttermilk Fried Chicken.

Time Duration: 1 hour

Cost: $25 per person

Pro Tip: Pair your meal with one of their curated local wines or craft beers.

Day 5 image

2:30 PM: Explore Annadel State Park

Route Guide!

Location: Santa Rosa

Direction: 15-minute drive from The Spinster sisters

Overview: The park is known for its rolling hills, scenic meadows, dense forests, and vibrant wildflowers, making it a popular destination for hiking, biking, and nature walks. Annadel is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts looking to explore Northern California’s stunning natural beauty.

List of Activities:

  • Hiking: Annadel State Park features over 25 miles of hiking trails, offering routes for all levels of experience. Popular hikes include the Lake Ilsanjo Trail, which leads to a scenic reservoir, and the Spring Creek Trail, known for its picturesque vistas and diverse flora.
  • Mountain Biking: The park has become a favorite among mountain biking enthusiasts, with its singletrack trails winding through forests and meadows. The trails range from beginner to expert, including the South Burma Trail and Guilford Trail.
  • Wildlife Watching: The park is home to various wildlife, including deer, foxes, and wild turkeys, as well as numerous bird species. Bring your binoculars to spot wildlife along the trails and near the park’s streams and ponds.

Time Duration: 2 hours

Cost: Free parking (limited spots available)

Pro Tip: Bring water and wear sturdy shoes for hiking.

Day 6 image

4:30 PM: Visit Luther Burbank Home & Gardens

Route Guide!

Location: Downtown Santa Rosa

Direction: 15-minute drive from Annadel State Park

Overview: Tour the historic home and gardens of famed horticulturist Luther Burbank. Discover rare plants and learn about his contributions to agriculture. Luther Burbank Home and Gardens is a perfect spot for garden enthusiasts.

Time Duration: 1 hour

Cost: $10 entry fee (guided tours available)

Pro Tip: Visit the gift shop for unique seeds and gardening books as souvenirs.

Day 7 image

5:30 PM: Return Journey to San Jose

Overview: Drive back to San Jose and reflect on your day.

Travel Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Pro Tip: Consider stopping for dinner on the route in Petaluma or Marin County, which offers excellent dining options like Italian trattorias or gastropubs.

Day 8 image

Trip Summary

7:00 AM: Depart from San Jose

9:00 AM: Breakfast at "The Naked Pig"

10:00 AM: Visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum

11:30 AM: Tour Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens

1:30 PM: Lunch at "The Spinster Sisters"

2:30 PM: Explore Annadel State Park

4:30 PM: Visit Luther Burbank Home & Gardens

5:30 PM: Return Journey to San Jose

Packing Checklist

  • Comfortable walking shoes for exploring parks and trails.
  • A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun.
  • A camera or smartphone for capturing memories.
  • Snacks for the road trip back to San Jose.

Budget Breakdown

Transportation$40
Meals$65
Activities/Entry Fees$52
Total Estimated Amount$157

In a Nutshell

Santa Rosa is a gem of laid-back charm, offering a day rich in flavors, history, and natural beauty. Whether savoring local wines or strolling through serene gardens, this itinerary is crafted to inspire joy and relaxation.