Visiting the picturesque valley of Sonoma opens the window to a wide array of options for the perfect day in Sonoma.
As a chef who has lived in the area for 8+ years and has enjoyed exploring the food and wine of the region, I have discovered many perfect itineraries for those looking for things to do in Sonoma.
Here is Day 1 of a perfect Sonoma itinerary.
Breakfast at Lou’s Kitchenette
Start your perfect day in Sonoma at Lou’s Kitchenette, located between Napa and Sonoma in a historic location. Enjoy the best burger in town, perfectly crispy fried chicken, or some comforting biscuits and gravy while sitting on the patio and taking in the morning air.
A Stroll Through Cassidy Ranch
After brunch, there is no need to drive far—walk over to Cassidy Ranch, just steps from Lou’s. If you’re lucky enough to visit in the summer, you can pick your own bouquet of flowers, stroll through the gardens, and take in the scenic views while tasting their wines. This is a must-visit stop on any Sonoma wine tasting experience.
Art at Di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art
Next, take a short Uber ride to Di Rosa, a unique art museum open Thursday through Sunday. This hidden gem showcases modern art in a breathtaking natural setting, complete with a large pond, rolling hills, and stunning landscapes that perfectly complement the contemporary works on display. This is a top choice if you’re wondering about things to do in Sonoma beyond wine tasting.
Sunset Sips at Domaine Carneros
Wrap up your Sonoma itinerary at Domaine Carneros, where you can sip on some of the best sparkling wine in the region. Grab a bottle of bubbles to enjoy with your private chef dinner or simply revel in the sunset with a glass in hand on their grand terrace. This is one of the best Sonoma wine tasting experiences you don’t want to miss.
Dinner at a Stunning Wine Country Location
If this isn’t the night you’ve opted for a private chef experience, consider dining at one of these impeccable wine country spots, which are some of the best restaurants in Sonoma:
- Farm at Carneros Resort – You can make a reservation to eat at Farm, or visit the more casual Pavillion without a reservation. Enjoy the outdoor seating, music, games + Friday movie night during the summer months.
- Bear at Stanly Ranch – A modern and luxurious dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients – with an incredible patio, and breath taking scenery.
Stay tuned for Day 2, where I’ll guide you through another perfect day in Sonoma with more incredible things to do in Sonoma!
