Petaluma CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Petaluma, California.
1. Historic Downtown Petaluma
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE & BOUTIQUES
Historic Downtown Petaluma is noted for its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture and charming streetscapes. Visitors can stroll among unique boutiques, art galleries, cafés, and restaurants set within buildings that survived the 1906 earthquake. The area is both a shopping destination and a living showcase of the city's storied past.
2. Petaluma Historical Library & Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, housed in a stately former Carnegie Library building, offers fascinating exhibits on local history and culture. Docent-led tours provide insight into Petaluma's development, from its founding to the present day. This compact museum is a great starting point for exploring the city's heritage.
3. Marin French Cheese Company
HISTORIC CHEESE TASTING
The Marin French Cheese Company is America's oldest continuously operating cheese company, established in 1865. Guests can sample award-winning cheeses, enjoy picnics by the pond, and observe cheese-making traditions. Its scenic rural setting makes it a popular stop for food lovers and families alike.
4. Lagunitas Brewing Company
RENOWNED CRAFT BREWERY
Lagunitas Brewing Company is a pioneer in California's craft beer scene, known for its vibrant taproom and live music events. The brewery offers an extensive menu of inventive brews and hearty pub fare. It's a lively spot for both locals and visitors looking to experience Petaluma's social scene.
5. McEvoy Ranch
OLIVE OIL & WINE ESTATE
McEvoy Ranch is a scenic working ranch producing organic olive oil, wines, and specialty foods on rolling hills just outside Petaluma. Visitors can join immersive tasting tours, stroll through olive groves, and shop for artisanal products. The ranch provides a tranquil, authentic taste of Northern California agriculture.
6. Petaluma Creamery
DAIRY SHOP & CAFÉ
Petaluma Creamery is a historic creamery and deli that crafts artisan cheeses and serves hearty breakfast and lunch fare. Guests can watch cheese-making through observation windows and purchase local dairy products. Its blend of history and farm-fresh flavor draws both tourists and residents.
7. Shollenberger Park
WETLANDS WILDLIFE HAVEN
Shollenberger Park is a peaceful 165-acre wetland preserve featuring flat walking trails, birdwatching platforms, and views of the Petaluma River. It's home to over 200 species of birds, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers and photographers. The park's accessible paths are suitable for all ages.
8. The Block Petaluma
FOOD TRUCK GATHERING SPOT
The Block Petaluma is an outdoor food truck park offering a rotating selection of local street food vendors and craft beers. With communal picnic tables and frequent live music, it provides a lively atmosphere for families and groups. The venue's casual vibe makes it a community favorite for casual dining.
9. Petaluma Arts Center
CONTEMPORARY ART EXHIBITIONS
The Petaluma Arts Center showcases rotating exhibitions of local and regional artists in a bright, airy space near the riverfront. The center offers workshops, gallery talks, and cultural events year-round. It serves as a creative hub, nurturing the city's vibrant arts community.
10. Petaluma Village Premium Outlets
SHOPPING DESTINATION
Petaluma Village Premium Outlets is a classic outlet shopping center featuring discounted brand-name stores for clothing, shoes, and accessories. Shoppers enjoy a mix of popular national retailers set in an open-air layout. The outlets are a convenient stop for bargain hunters visiting Sonoma County.
11. Helen Putnam Regional Park
SCENIC HIKING TRAILS
Helen Putnam Regional Park offers over six miles of rolling trails through wildflower-dotted hills just west of downtown Petaluma. The park is popular for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and panoramic views of the Sonoma countryside. Picnic areas and a fishing pond add to its family-friendly appeal.
12. Brewsters Beer Garden
OUTDOOR BEER & DINING
Brewsters Beer Garden is an al fresco gathering spot featuring an impressive lineup of local beers, seasonal cocktails, and modern American barbecue. Its spacious, dog-friendly patio is perfect for socializing and live music events. The venue's laid-back vibe and hearty menu make it a local hotspot.
13. Taps Beer Co. & Kitchen
CRAFT BEER PUB
Taps Beer Co. & Kitchen is a lively brewpub offering a rotating selection of house-made and guest beers paired with elevated pub fare. The casual, friendly atmosphere appeals to both beer aficionados and families. Its central location makes it a favorite stop for those exploring downtown Petaluma.
14. Sonoma Portworks
UNIQUE PORT & SPIRITS
Sonoma Portworks is the only winery in Sonoma County specializing in ports, after-dinner wines, and specialty spirits. Tastings are accompanied by handmade local chocolates and other pairings in a cozy riverside tasting room. This boutique producer is a hidden gem for those seeking something different in Wine Country.
15. Cornerstone Sonoma
GARDENS, SHOPPING & ART
Cornerstone Sonoma, just a short drive from Petaluma, combines art-inspired gardens, tasting rooms, home boutiques, and outdoor sculptures. The marketplace offers a unique blend of design, wine tasting, and shopping in a lush, landscaped setting. It's a perfect day trip for experiencing the best of Sonoma Valley's creativity.