If you believe there is little more to Santa Rosa than wine sips, then now's a good time to truly see the beauty for yourself.
Santa Rosa, California, maybe the heart of wine country, but it’s so much more than just sipping world-class vino. The city offers endless fun experiences for all kinds of visitors.
From stunning parks to museums and mouthwatering eats to charming downtown streets, there are simply many top fun things to do in Santa Rosa.
Even as a solo adventurer, family traveler, or a couple on a romantic getaway, this list is your ultimate guide to having a pleasant time in Santa Rosa.
Let's get started!
Santa Rosa is the hometown of Charles M. Schulz, the creator of Peanuts. You can walk through galleries of Schulz’s original comic strips and watch rare Peanuts animations.
There is even a life-size recreation of Snoopy’s doghouse. Don’t miss the beautiful courtyard mural made entirely of Peanuts comic tiles.
Families, nostalgia lovers, and anyone who’s ever had a soft spot for Snoopy will love a visit to this museum. You should also swing by the adjacent ice skating rink for some cool family fun or a romantic skate session.
Cost: $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for youth and students, and FREE for children 3 and under.
Are you ready for a wild adventure? No, you don’t have to race bulls. A fun day tour to Safari West is one of the top fun things to do in Santa Rosa.
This 400-acre wildlife preserve lets you hop on an open-air jeep and spot giraffes, cheetahs, and zebras. There are over 900 other exotic animals as well. It’s like stepping into the Serengeti but without the airfare.
A perfect day out for animal lovers, families, and adventurous couples. Be sure to book your ticket ahead, as tours sell out fast.
Cost: $110 per person for the tour on weekdays; Up to $120 on weekends.
The charming district of Historic Railroad Square is a treasure of boutique shops, antique stores, and wine bars.
It's a favorite spot for both visitors and locals, including those settling in with the help of local movers in Santa Rosa.
You can start your evening with a glass of wine at one of the local tasting rooms. Grab dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant and end with live music or dessert at a cozy café.
Whichever you choose, it's a great way for couples to spend time together or for foodies to sample meals.
Try not to miss Spinster Sisters for dinner—it’s a local favorite with a killer seasonal menu.
Cost: FREE to wander. Food and drink costs vary between $15–$50 per person for dining.
Have you ever heard of Luther Burbank, the legendary horticulturist? No? Well, allow the Luther Burbank Home & Gardens to introduce you to his former home, gardens, and grave.
This tranquil spot is a nationally certified landmark brimming with colorful flowers and exotic plants. You will also be serenaded by the stories of a man who changed agriculture. He experimented with plants for about 50 years during his lifetime.
If you want to know what a botanical wonderland looks like, you are in the right place.
Garden lovers, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates quiet beauty should bring their cameras—this is perfection. The best time to visit is spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom.
Cost: FREE self-guided tours; $12 for docent-led tours for adults; $19 for students, seniors, and children 12-18; FREE for children under 12.
All outdoor enthusiasts, this one's for you.
Annadel State Park offers miles of trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. You will encounter oak woodlands, wildflower meadows, and gorgeous views of Lake Ilsanjo.
In fact, this park offers some of the top fun things to do in Santa Rosa if you are an adventurous soul or fitness fanatic.
Just remember to pack water, snacks, and sunscreen. It might be best to visit in the early mornings for cool temperatures or in the late afternoon for stunning sunsets.
Cost: $7 parking fee per vehicle.
No trip to Santa Rosa is complete without sipping your way through the Russian River Valley. There are elegant chardonnays and velvety pinot noirs, essentially making the region a wine lover’s dream.
Many wineries at this location offer patio seating with views of rolling vineyards, perfect for a romantic outing.
Who would love a visit here? Wine aficionados, couples, and friend groups looking for a classy day out.
Simply choose two to three wineries and pace yourself. You shouldn’t drink and drive, though. You can book a wine tour shuttle instead.
Cost: Tasting fees range from $15–$50 per winery.
Have any kids? One of the top fun things to do in Santa Rosa is a visit to the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County.
Your kids will adore this hands-on museum, where creativity and imagination take center stage. Moreover, it will allow them to engage in science exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County.
Even as an adult, there could be a learning moment or two here. There’s also an outdoor play area, the ultimate spot for young explorers.
If you can manage it, visit on weekday mornings when there is less of a crowd.
Cost: $18 for adults and children, $15 for seniors.
Soar above Santa Rosa and the surrounding vineyards in a hot air balloon.
The views are breathtaking. Rolling hills, endless vineyards, and the morning mist slowly lift as you ascend.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience—great for thrill-seekers, romantics, and anyone celebrating a special occasion.
Remember to dress in layers; it’s chilly up there.
Cost: $219 per person.
Your answer for a serene getaway offering everything from scenic hiking trails to a sparkling 72-acre lake is nothing short of Spring Lake Park.
Whether you want to stretch your legs on the multi-use paths or paddle across the calm waters in a kayak, this park has you covered.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard for an active day. If visiting in summer, check out the campground for a weekend staycation in nature.
Cost: FREE entry; $7 parking fee per vehicle.
For aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, the Pacific Coast Air Museum is where you want to be.
This open-air museum boasts an impressive collection of over 35 vintage aircraft, including a fully restored F-4 Phantom II and a massive C-47 Skytrain.
You can even climb into the cockpit of select planes for a hands-on experience. Look out for their special events, like the annual airshow or “Open Cockpit Days,” when you can climb aboard some of the planes.
It’s an unforgettable experience.
Cost: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for kids (6-17), and FREE for children 5 and under.
Wine Country has an inexhaustible list of top fun things to do in Santa Rosa.
From adrenaline-pumping adventures to guided tours that offer fascinating insights into aviation history and the stories behind legendary aircraft, Santa Rosa has range.
The serene escapes and activities are great for anyone who loves a good vibe. Santa Rosa promises memories you will cherish forever.
