Summary of Santa Rosa Attractions
Sonoma County, California, isn’t all about the wine. Take a break from the wineries to spend some time in downtown Santa Rosa, the county seat. The downtown area offers cinema, art, a central plaza for relaxing and people-watching, a wide variety of bars and restaurants, mall shopping and boutiques, and a passenger train that connects you to the Sonoma County Airport and Petaluma.
Downtown Main Street
When locals refer to “downtown,” they are usually referencing the eastern section of the city. Courthouse Square, located at Mendocino Ave. between 3rd and 4th Streets, serves as Santa Rosa’s downtown center. This spacious plaza, renovated in 2017, features grassy areas, trees, and benches, making it a lively site for farmers markets and special events.
Fourth Street is the essence of downtown’s main street. It is filled with locally owned stores, eateries, breweries, a public library, and coffee shops, such as Starbucks and Peet’s Coffee and Tea. The renowned Russian River Brewing Company is also located here, celebrated for its craft beers, particularly Pliny the Elder.
A multiplex movie theater, bus transit hub, banks, and numerous city administration buildings can be found toward the southwest corner of downtown, near 1st and D Streets. Consider visiting the Luther Burbank Home and Gardens, the residence of the famous horticulturist for most of his life.
Historic Railroad Square
On the western side of the downtown area, Railroad Square is recognized as the original, historic heart of Santa Rosa. Many businesses are situated in charming turn-of-the-century stone buildings that have withstood several significant earthquakes, including the destructive 1906 San Francisco quake that impacted eastern Santa Rosa’s downtown. This bustling area is home to hotels, fine dining, antique shops, and cozy coffeehouses beloved by both tourists and locals.
In 2017, local passenger trains resumed service at the historic Railroad Square train depot. Additionally, be sure to check out the bronze statue of Snoopy and the Peanuts gang in Depot Park, which has significant sentimental value as its creator, Charles Schultz, approved its installation.
Santa Rosa Plaza
Commonly known as the “Downtown Mall,” the Plaza is strategically situated at the intersection of Highway 101 and Highway 12. It boasts over 120 specialty stores, including popular brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, Aldo Shoes, Apple, Bath & Body Works, and Sephora. The upper level showcases a food hall featuring various cuisines, from Japanese grills to pizzas and hamburgers. The mall is anchored by well-known retailers such as Macy’s, Sears, and Forever 21.
Museums of Sonoma County
Just three blocks from downtown’s center, across from the mall’s 7th St. exit, lies the historic 1910 post office building, now home to the Museum of Sonoma County. This museum offers an extensive collection documenting Sonoma County’s history and culture, ranging from the first Native American inhabitants to the earliest Russian and Mexican arrivals. The adjacent Modern Art Museum features a diverse range of artistic works, from paintings to sculptures.
