Curator’s statement
If you’re going to explore Sonoma, Healdsburg is the perfect home base. With family ties to Sonoma County and as a frequent visitor, I've grown to adore this charming town. Nestled at the crossroads of three renowned wine regions, Healdsburg blends small-town warmth with world-class wine, food and art, offering a more relaxed and affordable alternative to Napa Valley. Whether you’re strolling through galleries, savoring farm-to-table cuisine or sipping wine overlooking the vineyards, Healdsburg embodies the essence of Sonoma’s laid-back luxury.
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Things to do in Healdsburg
Wine tasting: Explore Healdsburg's renowned wineries and tasting rooms, offering a variety of exceptional wines in unique settings.
Stroll through Armstrong Woods: Discover the majestic beauty of ancient redwoods in this serene forest, perfect for nature lovers.
Bike through vineyard roads: Enjoy a leisurely ride through picturesque vineyards, easily accessible with complimentary bikes from many local hotels.
Stroll through Healdsburg Plaza: Wander through this charming hub, featuring boutique shops, tasting rooms and a lively atmosphere.
Healdsburg Farmers’ Market: Visit on Tuesdays or Saturdays to sample local produce, artisanal goods, and enjoy the community spirit.
Hot air balloon ride: Experience breathtaking views of Sonoma County's vineyards and landscapes from above.
Helicopter tour: Take in the stunning aerial vistas of wine country and the Pacific Ocean
Kayaking on the Russian River: Paddle through the serene waters, offering a refreshing break from wine tastings.
Places to eat & drink in Healdsburg
Single Thread: I've traveled to Healdsburg twice specifically to dine at SingleThread, a three-Michelin-starred masterpiece that surpasses the allure of Napa's French Laundry. SingleThread blends Japanese precision with farm-to-table Californian cuisine. It offers an unforgettable culinary experience defined by extraordinary ingredients, flawless service and artistic presentation.
The Matheson: A stunning showcase of Sonoma’s bounty, The Matheson offers everything from elevated farm-to-table dining to a rooftop lounge with handcrafted cocktails and breathtaking sunset views.
Noble Folk Ice Cream: Try their handcrafted, small-batch ice cream in unique flavors like black sesame coconut and Dutch cookie. Pair with homemade pies that are perfect for a sweet treat after a day exploring wine country.
Spoonbar: We often cap off our evenings in Healdsburg at Spoonbar. This is where vibrant energy meets artfully crafted cocktails and seasonal cuisine, making it the perfect spot to unwind in style.
Flowers Winery: Known for elegant Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast, offering a great tasting experience with stunning architecture.
Copain Wines: I love to enjoy their elegant Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah while relaxing the the Adirondack chairs they have set up on a hill overlooking the breathtaking views of rolling vineyards.
Rochioli Vineyards: Renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this historic winery is a landmark in the Russian River Valley.
Ridge Vineyards: Known for its exceptional single-vineyard Zinfandels, Cabernet blends and Rhône varietals, Ridge is a pioneer in California winemaking, blending tradition with innovation.
Need to know
Reservations are necessary at most wineries. If you’re planning to go wine tasting, I’d recommend limiting yourself to three wineries a day to truly savor the experience without feeling rushed. If you’re driving, consider sharing tastings or, better yet, arranging for a driver to eliminate any worries about getting around safely.
Travel Advisor
Dawn McKenzie
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