Set on a picturesque river and surrounded by rolling farmland and vineyards, Petaluma is a breath of fresh air. Shop for antiques in the walkable downtown district, paddle along the slow-moving Petaluma River and sip your way through Sonoma County, one of the top winemaking regions in California.
Things to do in Petaluma
Stroll around the historic downtown district and picture Petaluma in the 19th century. The streets are lined with handsome red-brick buildings and banks, many listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Especially beautiful are the iron-front buildings along Western Avenue. Today you’ll find trendy cafes, bistros and bars behind the decorative facades.
Downtown Petaluma boasts some of the best antique shopping in the Bay Area. Whether you’re on the hunt for a mid-century modern vase, an original oil painting or a rare book, Petaluma is a treasure hunter’s dream. There are plenty of contemporary galleries and studios if you prefer the modern style. Score big discounts at Petaluma Village Premium Outlets.
Pack your activewear and get ready for outdoor adventures in Petaluma. The Petaluma River snakes through Sonoma County and creates a perfect backdrop to swim, fish and paddle. Rent a bike and explore the countryside on two wheels or hit rocky mountain bike trails. You’ll find scenic ridgetop hiking trails in Helen Putnam Regional Park, while Shollenberger Park has a lush ecosystem of wetlands and freshwater marshes.
Whether you’re sipping Pinot Noir at a boutique bar in Downtown Petaluma, sampling seasonal ales at a craft brewery or learning about the berry-to-bottle process at a small batch gin distillery, there are plenty of unique tasting experiences on offer in Petaluma. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re a connoisseur or a complete beginner.
Getting around Petaluma
Downtown Petaluma is walkable and easy to get around on foot. Petaluma is in Sonoma County, a 45-minute drive from Downtown San Francisco. SMART trains run between Petaluma and Larkspur in under one hour. From here, it’s a 30-minute ferry ride to San Francisco. San Francisco International Airport is a one-hour drive away.