DISCOVER
SONOMA CALIFORNIA

Actually, several things had their beginnings in Sonoma:
Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma was established - the first and only mission under Mexican rule; the Bear Flag Revolt - when settlers declared their independence from Mexico - began on the plaza; and probably the most familiar of all - the California Wine Industry had its start here.

To leisurely explore this history-rich and exciting town, just book your Sonoma hotel at HotelsCombined.com where you can compare prices from over 30 hotel-booking sites.

Wild Mustard under the Grape Vines
Photo by Suzi Rosenberg

That's why I put such emphasis on Sonoma County Wineries; although a lot of people were making wine in throughout California at the time, Sonoma pioneered the California Premium Wine Industry and started the process that gave us California's first Wine Country!

And while we're talking wine, here are a few Wine Tasting Tips that'll have you feeling like a pro in no time!

Not by a long shot! Sonoma California is home to Sonoma Plaza with its historic buildings, boutique shops, and world-class restaurants. Originally laid out by General Mariano Vallejo, himself, Sonoma Plaza is the largest town plaza in California.

Sonoma Plaza;
Photo by Suzi Rosenberg

Around the plaza, you'll discover cheese factories, breweries, and art galleries. You'll find the Story of California, Sonoma Plaza History, and you'll explore Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma, the northernmost of the California missions.

Discover the delightful cooking school called Ramekins, where you can join hands-on cooking classes with names like Winter Braising Dishes, Hearty Foods and Micro Brews, Seafood from Mexico, and Hit the Grill Running.

Picnic at one of Sonoma
California's regional parks, starting with the eight-acre Plaza Park in the center of Sonoma with a duck pond, a children's playground, an outdoor amphitheater, grand old trees, and two historic buildings.

The kidlettes will delight in a one-quarter-scale railroad called
Traintown. Take rides on the train through a miniature landscape and enjoy the petting zoo, but don't forget the ferris wheel, the full-size cabooses, and the carousel as well.

You'll find quaint towns and villages, state historic parks, warm springs resorts, African animals (that's right!), hot air balloons, biking, hiking, camping, picnicing, boating, fishing, kayaking, birwatching, horsebackriding all around Sonoma...

Dog Sculpture outside a shop;
Photo by Suzi Rosenberg

Did I mention: Sonoma California is dog friendly! This one's not real, but there's many a shopkeeper with a canine family member on the premises to greet you, and with a special treat for your best friend should you bring the little darling along!

So what are you waiting for? Let's explore Sonoma!

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