Surrounded by rolling hills and lush vineyards, Sonoma Valley is a premier destination in Northern California. Sonoma Valley offers visitors an array of activities such as wineries, spas, 5-star restaurants, hiking trails, historic grounds, and a variety of ethnic eateries. One of our favorite towns to visit is Healdsburg. A quaint town with a charming town square, Healdsburg is the perfect place to make as a home-base as you explore the various wine areas.
After numerous trips to Healdsburg, we have come up with some of our favorite spots:
Where to Stay:
Often times, when visiting a new town it is hard to find the right place to stay that will meet all your needs and not break the bank. Well, there is hope! If you’re planning a weekend stay or even a lengthier vacation, here are two hotels that are sure to accommodate your getaway.
Located in the heart of Healdsburg, Barndiva’s Healdsburg Modern Cottages offers four getaway cottages a couple blocks off the town square. The modern cottages can each sleep between 2-4 people and have fireplaces and flat screen tvs. There is a pool and a hot tub and they provide bicycles for you to get around town. The cottages are perfect for a romantic getaway or for a group of friends. Rooms start at $275/night.
Barndiva Healdsburg Modern Cottages
231 Center St, Healdsburg, CA 95448; (707)431-0100
If you are looking for a charming stay that won’t break your budget, then the Best Western Dry Creek Inn is a great place to check into. Also located in Healdsburg, this Best Western gives off a quaint feel that is unlike any chain hotel. The buildings are Tuscan and vintage inspired and have a range of amenities, including jet spa tubs, complimentary wine tasting events, free high speed internet, complimentary breakfast, balconies/patios and some rooms even offer fireplaces and refrigerators. Beyond the luxury amenities offered, the central location is perfect for enjoying activities in Healdsburg and Dry Creek and is less than a mile away from the Healdsburg town square.
Best Western Dry Creek Inn
198 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448; (707)433-0300
Where to Eat:
If there is one place you can’t miss a meal at it’s Barndiva. This place knows that the way to your heart is through your stomach and the experience here is like none other. All food is locally sourced from sustainable ranchers, farmers and fisherman. Barndiva is dedicated to serving up every meal with the same passion they put into the family business. With such a divine menu, Chef Ryan Fancher is sure to surpass your expectations and leave your belly wanting more.
Barndiva
231 Center St, Healdsburg, CA 95448; (707)431-0100
Located in the heart of Healdsburg square, Bistro Ralph is an eclectic mix of French cuisine and Mediterranean infused dishes. Daily dinner and lunch specials vary and are made with all organic dairy, grass fed meats, and local, hormone and antibiotic free poultry. Whether you try their savory Duck Confit, a plate of 1,000 fries, or their classic crème brulee, your taste buds are sure to be pleased.
Bistro Ralph
109 Plaza Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Looking to take a bite out of Italy? Then Campo Fina is a great dinner destination for the food lover inside of you. Some come for the gelato and others stay for the mouth-watering Burratta Pizza. With a newly renovated patio area, Tuscan ambiance and a tasty wine list, this is the perfect restaurant to enjoy a family night out or a romantic dinner for two.
Campo Fina
330 Healdsburg Ave, CA, 95448
Right on the main street of Healdsburg, you can grab the catch of the day at this delicious seafood joint. Willi’s Seafood and Raw Bar has nothing but rave reviews and endless seafood options. From bacon wrapped scallops to rose and cucumber martinis, this menu is as fresh as their fish of the day. With great service and a kid friendly environment, this local favorite is hard to beat.
Willi’s Seafood and Raw Bar
403 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, CA 95448; (707)433-9191
Where to Drink…..From Coffee to Cocktails:
Starting your morning off right usually requires a cup of coffee (or tea) or two. If you’re staying near the square then visiting Flying Goat Coffee is a great option for a morning pick me up. Open daily from 7am-7pm, you can also enjoy a nighttime espresso or midday treat. Visitors and locals agree that there are no ordinary beans being served up here. A few favorites are their Aztec mocha, chai latte and Japanese iced coffee (and of course the pastries).
Flying Goat Coffee
324 Center St, Healdsburg, CA 95448; (707) 433-3599
After a day of wine tasting, followed by a great meal, why not have a cocktail. Spoonbar is both creative and comfy in its design. The cool hues, vibrant art and cozy couches make this spot a great place to gather for drinks and get inspired. Since this is a local hub, Spoonbar features local spirits and neighborhood grown herbs, fruits and vegetables for their cocktails. Bar manager, Daniel “Cappy” Sorentino, and team, cook up a number of new featured drinks each quarter to compliment the essence of the season. The team’s most recent concoction is playing with carbonated cocktails that will leave your mouth begging for more bubbles.
Spoonbar
219 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, CA 95448; (707)433-7222