Tamara Waterston's Santa Rosa & Sonoma County Guide: Eat, Sleep, Play Amid Recovery
We're standing with Santa Rosa and Sonoma County as they welcome travelers following the recent fires. Businesses are open, green grass is returning, and the stunning countryside awaits. Join us in supporting this vibrant destination and its resilient California beauty.
For the ideal base in Santa Rosa/Sonoma County, prioritize central locations with easy access. As Sonoma County's largest city, Santa Rosa offers an airport, In-N-Out Burger (our first stop), banks like Wells Fargo, and Starbucks. Our stay at the Hyatt Vineyard Creek provided the perfect launchpad.
Upon check-in, we were greeted by a cozy fireplace, refreshing strawberry-infused water, and a complimentary local wine tasting in the lobby. The Tuscan-inspired design creates a clean, inviting ambiance. Rooms are newly renovated, spacious, and fresh. Mornings started with fresh-baked pastries and hot coffee from the lobby lounge—an ideal kickoff to exploration.
The hotel's highlight is its expansive lawn and vibrant flower garden, with vines draping walkways adorned in string lights. Enjoy the pool for morning vitamin D or post-wine-tasting relaxation. Warm weather makes it a family-friendly refresher on longer trips.
Don't miss the terrace fire pits—perfect for sunset cocktails with artisanal cheese plates. Sonoma's pink-hued sunsets are magical. It's a serene spot before strolling to downtown restaurants.
Top dining picks: Stark's Steak & Seafood, Lococo's Cucina Rustica, and Riviera Ristorante. Italian fans rejoice—cozy vibes and exceptional cuisine await. Book ahead for Lococo's; it's a local favorite. We lucked into a reservation from fellow wine tasters—our weekend highlight!
[masterslider id="23"]
Tamara Waterston, Sun Country Explorer:
@champagneandmacaroons
I received complimentary airfare, hotel stay, and a stipend from Sun Country Airlines. All opinions are my own, uninfluenced by sponsorship.
