Numerous people travel to scenic wine country in Northern California every year. There are plenty of wineries andĀ tasting roomsĀ toĀ visit in this area, but you can make a real vacation out of it by taking in all of the sights. Here are some things you and your entire family can partake in. Whether you are staying for a couple days or a few weeks, you will never end up saying, āI am bored.ā
1. Go Whale Watching
If you do not live by the sea, then youĀ should use this opportunity to goĀ whale watching. There are plenty of services nearby that will take you on a boat to try to see some whales. At certain times of the years, you will find volunteers around the coast who can answer all of your whale-related questions. You want to make sure you have your binoculars and camera with you because you never know when a whale will appear.
2. Hang Out at the BeachĀ
For people who get seasick easily, they may prefer just staying on the shore. There are plenty of beaches around Wine Country you can take a walk on. You can bring a picnic and enjoy a lovely meal while looking at the waves crash upon the shore. You may even be able to see some sea life from here. Some beaches in the area even have hiking trails and tidal pools. There are also plenty of restaurants along the coast that will give you a one-of-a-kind view.
3. Go Hiking
Northern California has over 50 regionalĀ parks in Sonoma CountyĀ and 11 state parks. This results in miles of hiking trails if you consider yourself to be an outdoor enthusiast. There are plenty of self-guided, free tours you can take. There are all kinds of terrain in the vicinity. Whether you prefer coastal trails with rocky bluffs or simpler terrain, there is something here for people of all experience levels.
4. Head Out on a Safari
Many people would not expect to run into giraffes while in California. Luckily, you can see giraffes, zebras, gazelles and much more at the Safari West Wildlife Preserve. It is located in Santa Rosa, and over 700 animals are housed here. The conditions closely match their natural African environment, so they eat, play and socialize like normal. You can go on a tour to get up close with the animals, making this one excursion people of all ages will love.
5. Check Out Some Live PerformancesĀ
Plenty of concerts take place around Wine Country. If you will be in the area for a while, then you should definitely go to one if you can. There are large and small venues alike. You can look up who is playing at the Green Music Center, which is a world-class performing arts center located in the heart of Wine Country. You can also head over to the 6thĀ Street Playhouse, which offers live theater performances and music.
6. Go to One of the Many Art Galleries
For people who prefer paintings over music, there are dozens of galleries in the area you can enjoy. Plenty of these art galleries are within walking distance to one another. This allows you to check out a bunch at once. Additionally, the town of Guerneville has an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month. You can see artwork from various merchants, and you may just find the perfect piece to buy to take home with you to remind you of your time in Wine Country.
7. Visit the Wonderful Charles M. Schulz Museum
No matter what kind of art you are into, anyone can get a kick out of the Charles M. Schulz Museum. Schulz is the creator of the āPeanutsā comic strip. Here, you will find artwork featuring Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Lucy and the entire Peanuts gang. You can even watch some of the animated āPeanutsā specials here. It is a great experience worth checking out.
8. Visit All the Wineries
Naturally, no trip to Wine Country would be complete without checking out some of the wineries. In particular, theĀ Alexander Valley WineriesĀ are true sights to behold, and you can try some wines you may not have the chance to sip otherwise. While tasting the wines, you can also enjoy a sample plate of expertly-paired foods. You can also enjoy some stunning views. There is no other way to really partake in the Sonoma Wine Country lifestyle.
You should plan out all your activities in Northern California well in advance, so you get to do everything that sparks your fancy. There is certainly no shortage of activities. Regardless if you are traveling with your children or a group of friends, you can all find something to do. Wine Country is a unique area, and you should absolutely take in everything the cities have to offer.
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Cynthia Ragland
January 15, 2019 at 8:09 amIād like to follow your blog.
Carmen Edelson
January 22, 2019 at 5:35 amGo right ahead – thank you š
Natalie Redman
January 16, 2019 at 11:39 amI love going to vineyards and trying out wines!
Carmen Edelson
January 22, 2019 at 5:35 amI do too – it’s so much fun š
Kyra Rodriguez
January 18, 2019 at 1:43 amWOoooow! I love going to beach, & hiking! Haven’t tried going to vineyard and watch whales..
Carmen Edelson
January 22, 2019 at 5:36 amSo many fun activities in California’s wine country!
Laura
January 22, 2019 at 2:21 pmAhhh I want to go to California so bad! Who doesnāt want to go wine tasting at a winery?!! Also, I had no idea, or didnāt even think you could go wail watching! Great post!
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:35 pmYes, you definitely can! California is amazing.
Stephanie
January 22, 2019 at 2:46 pmAs if I didn’t already want to go to wine country SO badly – now I want to visit even more. Hopefully I’ll get to check this off my bucket list one day!
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:36 pmI hope so too, Stephanie!
Rebekah Joan
January 22, 2019 at 5:41 pmI haven’t been to California in years! These are all awesome ideas for when I finally make it back. Especially visiting the wineries. š
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:36 pmYes, wine tasting in California is the thing to do š
Samantha
January 22, 2019 at 5:55 pmI’m planning on going to California this summer, so I’m def going to take your advice! Thank you š
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:36 pmSo glad to hear it, hope you have the best time!
Moriah Joy @ Our Table for Two
January 22, 2019 at 6:46 pmI live in wine country, so I’ve done a bunch of these, but not the Safari. Adds to the bucket list immediately!
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:36 pmYes, so much fun to be had in sunny California!
Summer
January 22, 2019 at 7:54 pmSuch cool ideas, Carmen! I would’ve never thought about a safari or whale watching!
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:36 pmThanks so much for reading, Summer š
Monica
January 22, 2019 at 9:10 pmPinned this for later! I have always wanted to go to California wine country — hopefully one day I will get there!
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:39 pmFingers crossed, Monica! It’s a beautiful part of the state.
Erica @ Coming Up Roses
January 23, 2019 at 11:02 amOMG whale watching AND wine?!?!? Sign me up!!!
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:40 pmHa, yes! The best of both worlds.
Becky @ DIsney inyour Day
January 23, 2019 at 8:22 pmI’ve never been to Northern California but I would love to do all of these things! The safari would be at the top of my list as I love animals.
Carmen Edelson
January 28, 2019 at 4:40 pmI do too, and it’s so much fun š
decanter
June 26, 2019 at 4:51 amCalifornia is the dreamland. When we go there then live there for a long time and we spend time without any stress. So visit that place and try all these 8 things to enjoy the tour. Go to all the wineries and have fun.
Carmen Edelson
July 14, 2019 at 1:48 pmYes the wineries are a must!