Healdsburg, California is a small town located in Sonoma wine country. It is nestled on the beautiful banks of the Russian River Valley. For those that want to get a taste of Sonoma County and experience the very best wine tasting rooms, wine tastings paired with food, and more, downtown Healdsburg and the surrounding areas have you covered!
If you’re staying in Healdsburg, California, consider booking the Best Western Dry Creek Valley Inn, or any of the other fabulous hotels around the area. For instance, the Hotel Healdsburg accommodates visitors to Healdsburg, California, and offers free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a plethora of other services for you and your loved ones here in Northern California!
You’ll enjoy the many wine tasting and wine shops that harvest the very best wines from the surrounding Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley.
Looking for a sustainable, eco-friendly hotel in Healdsburg? Look no further than H2hotel! The hotel is located right in downtown Healdsburg, just a block away from the Healdsburg Town Plaza. H2hotel is committed to being earth-friendly, with features like a solar-heated creekside pool. Plus, all of the guest rooms have private patios or balconies, so you can enjoy the beautiful California weather.
Looking for a place to stay in Healdsburg? Check out Hotel Healdsburg! This modern hotel is located in downtown Healdsburg and features a complimentary breakfast buffet, a 60-foot garden pool, and a hot tub. With more than 100 Sonoma County wineries within 16.1 km, it's the perfect place to wine and dine your way through California's wine country. So come on down and enjoy all that Hotel Healdsburg has to offer!
Looking for the perfect place to stay in California's wine country? Look no further than the Best Western Dry Creek Inn! This hotel is conveniently located just off Hwy 101 and offers free WiFi and free parking for guests. Relax and unwind in one of the two outdoor swimming pools or hot tubs, or enjoy a cozy evening by the outdoor fireplace. With comfortable accommodations and plenty of amenities, the Best Western Dry Creek Inn is sure to make your stay in wine country a memorable one!
TL;DR
- Most significant landmark – Healdsburg plaza
- Best park – Del Rio Woods Regional Park
- Best free activity – Healdsburg Center for the Arts
- Best activity for kids – Badger Park
- Best activity for adults – Lioco Wine Tasting Room
- Best food – Bravas Bar de Tapas
- Best nightlife – Duke’s Spirited Cocktails
- Best all-around accommodation – H2 Hotel
Fun & Best Things to do in Healdsburg, California
1. Visit the Russian River Rose Company for a tour
Address: 1685 Magnolia Drive, Healdsburg, CA, 95448
The Russian River Rose Company is hailed as one of the most beautiful places in Sonoma County. They specialize in growing roses for rose oil and rose water. What’s amazing about this area is that you are free to tour and get an inside look at how they create their products.
The Russian River Rose Company support local growers while they harvest the best roses in Healdsburg, California. A comprehensive tour of the Russian River Rose Company will only set you back about $10, which is an amazing price for those on a tight budget.
During the springtime, the roses are in full bloom, but the good news is that this nursery is open year-round for visits. Make sure to visit their website to find the best hours of operation and to book your appointment ahead of time.
If you have children with you, there’s good news, since children 3 and under are free. This is truly one of the most scenic and unforgettable places to visit in the area, and it’s dreamy yet affordable. You can also enjoy the Russian River Kayak Tour as a side tour.
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2. Visit Healdsburg Plaza
Address: Healdsburg Ave & Matheson St, Healdsburg, CA 95448
The Healdsburg plaza stands out among the other areas of downtown Healdsburg. Healdsburg Plaza is home to a beautiful central gazebo, surrounded by benches, and beautiful greenery, and plays host to several free events. If you’re shopping around the many downtown Healdsburg areas and want a place to relax with the kids, read a book, or unwind, this is the best place to do so!
Look online to see more information about the facility, as well as events that might be hosted here in the future. This is a charming park that has lots of free summer shows available for families, couples, or simply those that want to people watch!
If you want to stay in this part of town, the sustainable H2 Hotel is a great option for you and the planet. H2 Hotel is one of the leaders in green engineering. They are LEED NC 2.2 Gold Certified Green. One look at their beautiful green roof covered in falling leaves, their gorgeous eco-chic furniture, and their Earth and nature-inspired cocktails will tell you why.
A pool with ample lounge chairs, a spa, a delicious restaurant called Spoonbar, and private patios make this one of the best hotels in the area for singles, couples, and families alike.
3. Visit Healdsburg Center for the Arts
Address: 334 Center St, Healdsburg, CA 95448
The Healdsburg Center for the Arts is one of the best art centers in this region of Northern California. For locals, they offer a series of art classes for adults and children alike. Their exhibits are top-class, featuring a range of artworks from photography to painting.
Best of all, the Healdsburg Center for the Arts is only steps away from the Healdsburg Plaza, and entry is free for children and adults. This makes it one of the best places in Sonoma County and California wine country to sit back, enjoy some artwork and let those creative juices flow.
Its many classes, workshops, and art parties make it well worth the visit. Their website online has more information on current art galleries, classes, and operating hours if you want to visit.
See Related: Most Famous Landmarks in California to Visit
4. Visit Del Rio Woods Regional Park
Address: 2656 S Fitch Mountain Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Fishing, birding, and wildlife viewing are all fair abundant at the Del Rio Woods Regional Park! This is one of the most beautiful parks in the area, and visitors are free to Kayak, paddle, sunbathe, and take a picnic lunch in the area.
It’s good to check the water levels around the area, as well as small gatherings. Unfortunately, large gatherings are not authorized, but this is a great spot for a couple or small family! Best of all, the Del Rio Woods Regional Park is also accessible to those in wheelchairs and with mobility issues.
If you’re planning a small gathering and want a place to view wildlife, visit their website for more information on lifeguards, additional security, and other information about how to visit the park safely.
5. Explore the Castello Di Amarosa
Address: 4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515
Looking for day trips from Healdsburg? If you want to experience the best wine tasting in Napa Valley, take a tour to the Castello Di Amarosa, which is only a 45-minute drive away from Healdsburg, California.
This winery is one of the best and most unique in the area and should be on your list of Healdsburg wineries nearby. It is located inside a magnificent castle, and opened to the public in 2007.
It is made to be reminiscent of a Tuscany and is much more than a Tuscan Italian restaurant and winery. Instead, this winery produces some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon wines, 5 wine selections to choose from, and even non-alcohol grape juice for those that want to take in the beauty of the area without any of the wine.
Visit their website here to find out more about how to book your reservation here so you can enjoy some of the best wine tastings in the area. Remember that they are following local and county guidelines for safety.
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6. Visit the Ramey Wine Cellars
Address: 25 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, CA 95448
The Ramey Wine Cellars have a wide selection of tasting wines to choose from. They are located just 8 blocks from the Healdsburg plaza, meaning you can enjoy the various shops around the area, as well as enjoy the many sights and sounds around Healdsburg. Once you’re done shopping, you can stop in and travel around the world through your palette!
This is one of the world-class wineries located in the very heart of Healdsburg. As such, it’s important to schedule your reservation ahead of time when visiting. Tastings are available at 10 am and 2 pm, excluding holidays.
There is limited seating, and tasting sessions are only for about an hour. Make sure to visit their website to schedule your reservation time, as well as explore the many different wine options at the Ramey Wine Cellars. To complete your relaxing vacation in Healdsburg, consider the private getaway at the Healdsburg Hilltop retreat so you can sit back and unwind in this beautiful part of Sonoma County.
7. Visit Foothill Regional Park
Address: 1351 Arata Ln, Windsor, CA 95492
Foothill Regional Park is home to many different trails, ranging from easy to difficult. There are sweeping views of northern Sonoma County, as well as ample opportunities for bass fishing, hiking, lounging in the sun, picnicking, and picturesque flower fields. Foothill Regional Park is just minutes away from Healdsburg, California, and is one of the must-see locations for people that want to experience the nature surrounding Northern California.
Foothill Regional Park has a variety of trails to choose from. The Three Lakes Trail is the best trail to choose for people that have mobility issues since it is lined with compacted gravel. There are also areas nearby for gated parking and a picnic area. There are also wheelchair-accessible trail areas for those with mobility issues and older individuals.
For more advanced hikers, this is also a great park to get your exercise in and enjoy some of the most unique views in California. Alta Vista Trail is a challenging climb, but well worth it due to the breathtaking views located throughout the trail. If you have a dog, they are allowed here but must be on a leash.
Get started on planning your trip here by visiting their website to view the best trails for you and your friends and family.
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8. Visit Seghesio Family Vineyards
Address:700 Grove St, Healdsburg, CA 95448
The Seghesio Family vineyards have been around for over 120 years, producing some of the best wines in Sonoma County. They specialize in Zinfandel and Italian Varietals, with a special emphasis on wines made from the grapes of the surrounding Dry Creek Valley. You can enjoy their many different wines at their tasting room in downtown Healdsburg!
Their tasting room is open to the public from 10 am to 5 pm, so it is easily accessible to fit most schedules. This is the perfect place to enjoy brunch with you or a loved one, and to try the different types of wines grown locally.
You can either enjoy tasting by itself, or you can combine it with a tasting tour of the vineyards! Explore the process of turning grapes into wine, and enjoy some of the most coveted wines all the while doing so by visiting their website for more information on how to book a reservation! For a side trip and more wine tasting check out this day tour.
9. Have a Picnic at Badger Park
Address: 750 Heron Dr, Healdsburg, CA 95448
For some all-around fun things to do in Healdsburg, be sure to visit Badger Park if you’re on a trip with little ones! This is one of the most highly rated parks in the area, and for good reason. There are loads of picnic options, including tables and benches and soft grass throughout.
There is also a playground available so your children can enjoy some fun in the sun. In addition, the Healdsburg Dog Committee has also worked to create two off-leash areas for your puppies! These areas are open to the public and are one of the best ways for your dogs to socialize and get out some of that energy while you’re away on vacation.
If you’re here for an extended period or a family vacation, keep in mind you can also reserve the park for special events for up to 40 people! There is also a beautiful garden area, so you can come and enjoy a day of gardening and enjoying the many flowers, fruits, and vegetables in the area with your loved ones. For an unforgettable family gathering, visit their website to see more information on the park, and start planning your trip today!
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10. Visit Thunderbird Ranch
Address: 9455 CA-128, Healdsburg, CA 95448
If you’re traveling to Healdsburg, California, in search of a magical venue to help make your stay here an unforgettable memory, then check-out Thunderbird Ranch for all of your event needs! This is one of the most highly rated, largest, and well-equipped wedding venues in the area of Sonoma County. There are also horseback riding opportunities so you can traverse the scenic route and enjoy the breathtaking views of the hills and vineyards below you.
Thunderbird Ranch offers event planning services as well as horseback riding, making this a great venue for your next special event, wedding, family visit, and everything in between. You can find more information about their well-rounded services on their website. Keep in mind that this area is only open from May to October.
11. Visit the Healdsburg Museum
Address: 221 Matheson St, Healdsburg, CA 95448
The Healdsburg Museum is one of the oldest attractions in Healdsburg. It’s open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm, and best of all admission is free! This is the perfect place to visit if you have a family with you, want to learn more about the history of Healdsburg, and want to get your fill on some of the best exhibits around.
These exhibits commemorate the history of Healdsburg and are quite varied. There’s something for everyone to enjoy here, from the ancient Pomo and Wappo Indian Artifacts to beautiful textiles that are handwoven and passed down through generations.
For those that love architecture and the history of buildings, there are also household items on display, architectural remnants, and business furnishings. Look at their website to see a current listing of exhibits, including their permanent and temporary exhibits, and see which of these exhibits can help satisfy your love of history on your trip to Healdsburg!
See Related: Best Museums in the US You Need to Visit
12. Go Wine Tasting at Lioco Wine Tasting Room
Address: 25 Matheson St, Healdsburg, CA 95448
The Lioco Wine Tasting Room is an ultra-modern take on the classic wine country pastime. The Lioco Wine Tasting Room offers some of the best wines in Sonoma County, but they also offer artisan handblown glass stems for a luxurious experience. There are various locations to choose from, including the parklet, sidewalk tables, or indoors.
The setup of the tasting room is designed to promote more intimate settings and is also designed to be light and airy. You can enjoy your wine solo or with a party of people, as walk-ins and reservations are also welcome. The fruits used to make their wine are harvested in the wine country from Sonoma County, Mendocino County, and also Santa Cruz.
To enjoy wine in a luxurious setting with loved ones, visit their website to reserve a table or to explore their menu. There are tasting options from $25 to $45, meaning this is also a great option for those on a tight budget.
13. Grab Dinner At Bravas Bar de Tapas
Address: 420 Center St, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Bravas Bar de Tapas is one of the highest-rated bars and restaurants in the area. They are known for their excellent selection of oysters, raw seafood, and shareable plates. This award-winning restaurant has been consistently rated as one of the best places to sit down and eat and share drinks in Healdsburg.
Make sure to visit their website to schedule your reservation and book a table, and also to explore their seasonal menu. This restaurant’s menu does change according to the availability of fresh ingredients.
From trout to sardines, and spicy plates, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here at Bravas de Tapas. Visit them to enjoy the best Sonoma County wines, cocktails, and beers as well for a full night of drinking and fun!
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14. Get a Drink at Duke’s Spirited Cocktails
Address: 111 Plaza St, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Duke’s Spirited Cocktails have been a staple of Healdsburg since 1933. They run off the motto that if they can make it naturally by themselves, they will! This is one bar that is more than just a watering hole. Duke’s Spirited Cocktails is known for having a unique selection of refreshing cocktails, beer, and wine.
They do not require a reservation, so this is the perfect place to drop in while you’re on your wine tasting tour, or even if you need somewhere to relax and unwind after a long day of shopping and touring Healdsburg. Best of all, they also offer private event bookings, so you can take your family or a group of friends and book the place for your enjoyment!
If you want to enjoy some of the most refreshing spirits to top off your night, visit their website to explore the bar and its options. If you’re looking for a wine tour nearby Healdsburg and want to make this a stop, check out this cool walking tour of the wine country here.
15. Grab a Bite at the Costeaux French Bakery
Address: 417 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Costeaux French Bakery has been a staple of the Healdsburg, California area since 1923. They are known for their excellent selection of coffees, pastries, gourmet sandwiches, and brunch items.
This is the perfect place to stop by on your way out of or on your way into Healdsburg. If you have an event planned, you’ll be glad to know that Costeaux French Bakery also offers catering services.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, they also offer delicious wedding cakes, seasonal cakes, and other cakes for special events. Plan your visit by viewing their website to find out more about the types of delicious food they offer, coffees, cakes, and more. They are truly a one-stop shop if you want to enjoy the most delicious food in Healdsburg, and should be one of the stops of your Healdsburg food tours!
16. Visit Noble Folk Ice Cream & Pie Bar
Address: 116 Matheson St, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Noble Folk Ice Cream & Pie Bar provides a modern take on traditional desserts like pies and ice cream. Its founder is Ozzy Jimenez, who is the current mayor of Healdsburg! As such, it’s one of the most beloved dessert shops in Healdsburg, with high ratings on Google thanks to its many diverse flavors like dutch cookie, pistachio cherry, and salted caramel!
They also support inclusivity and are proud community members supporting the LGTQIA+ population in Healdsburg! This is one of the best places to visit with friends and family to get your fill of cupcakes, pies, cookie sandwiches, and ice cream. You can place an order ahead of time on their website for a convenient pick-up, or view their delicious and unique flavors online.
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17. Visit Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach
Address: 13839 Old Redwood Hwy, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach is one of the few parks in the area where you can experience the feeling of being on the bay, while also basking in the sunshine and remaining safe inland! This is one of the most beloved parks in the area that can fill up quickly during summertime, especially during Memorial day weekend.
The park is also open to dogs, so long as they remain on a leash, and it is also available to those with mobility issues. There are accessible areas for everyone in the family to explore, sunbathe, and enjoy a picnic. Swimming in the water is also allowed, and there are lifeguards available during limited times of the year.
Plan your visit here by viewing their website to see the hours of operation. These hours of operation are usually from 7 am to 30 minutes before sundown!
18. Take a Cycling Tour of Downtown Healdsburg
Cycling tours are plentiful when visiting Healdsburg, and they are one of the most fun ways to enjoy the sights of the city without so much as having to lift your legs! These cycling tours, also known as party bike rentals, are offered in Healdsburg and require the help of a team of people to power this unique, trolly-like bike!
Don’t worry, it’s hella easy and a real riot. Best of all, the tour guides are ready to recommend the best places for food pairings, live music, and just about any other place that you can think of in Healdsburg!
Visit their website to find out more about taking a cycling tour of downtown Healdsburg. Choose from their “Just the Seat” tour or an all-inclusive tour complete with food and the best wine on the Sonoma Coast!
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19. Visit the Hand Fan Museum
Address: 309 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, CA 95448
This is one of the strangest and most niche Healdsburg museums, but it is well worth the trip! The Hand Fan Museum is unique in that it doesn’t display fine art (although you can debate that these hand fans are considered fine art). They, instead, display hand fans that have been designed with fashion and use in mind.
The hand fan museum is home to hand fans throughout the years, and displays some of the most beautifully curated and restored fans for your enjoyment! From Victorian-era fans to artists’ pieces, there’s bound to be a favorite design that you’ll be talking about for days after.
Visit here with a friend or family, and make sure to check their website for hours of operation to plan your visit to one of the most unique museums in the country!
20. Tour the Jordan Vineyard and Winery
Address: 1474 Alexander Valley Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Jordan Vineyard has been around since the 1970s, and they are one of the most beloved wineries in the area due to its devotion to chardonnay, the very best cabernet sauvignon, and its beautiful location on Alexander Valley Road.
As a visitor, you can book a tour of the vineyard, or you can enjoy mingling among the fresh flowers, vines, and grapes that make up the rest of the vineyard. From estate tours to wine tasting among the beautiful vineyard, and seated food and wine pairings, you can explore the many activities Jordan Vineyard offers on their website! There are also fantastic holiday tasting sessions available if you plan on booking your visit here around the holiday season.
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Getting Around Healdsburg
There are various ways to travel around Healdsburg with your family or friends, or even with your date. Below are some of the best ways to travel through Healdsburg, California either by using public transportation, rental options, or even walking and horseback.
For Solo Travelers – Ride Sharing Services
Healdsburg is a smaller community, but it is a little dense in the downtown area. If you don’t have a car, rent a vehicle so you can get around easily, as well as enjoy the many sights and sounds without having to worry about parking. Uber and Lyft are two of the most popular options for traveling through Healdsburg, California for solo travelers.
Bike Riding
Healdsburg plaza and the downtown Healdsburg area are densely packed together. To help you explore, here are some bike rental options in Healdsburg, including party bike rental options to explore the city with a group!
Scooter Rentals
For people that don’t have mobility issues and can comfortably sit upright, but that don’t have the energy to pedal a traditional bike, scooters are another great way to get around Healdsburg. There are scooter rental areas nearby to use on your trip.
Car Rental Services
Renting a car is one of the fastest and easiest ways to travel in Healdsburg with family or traveling alone. Here are some car rental services near Healdsburg, California to help you get started.
Explore Public Transportation Options
In Healdsburg, there are also public transportation systems like buses to help you get from place to place without spending too much money. The public transit system in the city is the Healdsburg shuttle, which is free to use! The City of Healdsburg website has more detailed information about transportation services.
FAQ
What are the best tourist attractions in Healdsburg?
One of the top tourist attractions in Healdsburg is the wine pairings and wine tasting rooms available at many boutique shops and wine shops in downtown Healdsburg. Visit the downtown area to get your fill of wine shops, as well as find a wine to take home with you at the end of your trip!
What are some fun things to do in Healdsburg?
Some fun things to do in Healdsburg, California, are to explore the eateries downtown through Healdsburg food tours or Healdsburg wine tours! These tours are available here to check tickets for all to enjoy, and it’s a great way to meet new people and enjoy the very best of wine country.
What is the best thing to do with kids in Healdsburg?
If you are with kids, be sure to visit the Badger Park area in Healdsburg. There’s no shortage of activities to do here, including picnics, lounging in the grass, and playing in the playground area that is sprawling and fun for kids of all ages to enjoy.
What are some things to do in Healdsburg when it’s raining?
If it’s raining, head to the art galleries and exhibits at the Healdsburg Museum. It’s a great way to learn more about the history of the city, explore the textiles and ancient artifacts of the city, and also get to see remnants of a time gone past through their architecture.
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