Santa Rosa, California: Wine, Art and Nature in Sonoma Valley

Nestled amidst the lush vineyards and farms of Sonoma County sits the laidback city of Santa Rosa. Often overlooked by visitors racing up to Napa, Santa Rosa offers its own collection of hidden urban and natural treasures worth seeking out. Whether you're looking to relax or get a taste of local culture, this guide will help you uncover the real gems of Santa Rosa.

Take a Stroll Through Old Courthouse Square

The heart of downtown Santa Rosa is Old Courthouse Square, a tranquil park perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. On any given afternoon you'll find locals lounging on the grass or grabbing an outdoor table at one of the surrounding cafes. Be sure to look up at the towering trees providing shade - some are over 160 years old! The square is also home to frequent farmer's markets, art shows, and other community events. It's the kind of place where you feel like you've stepped into a lost era of small town life.

After taking it all in, consider booking a hotel nearby through https://bitbook.net. Not only will you save with their exclusive rates, but you can earn rewards on your stay in the form of BBT tokens - the cryptocurrency powering the BitBook travel platform. Staking your BBT can also provide lifelong passive income, making your Santa Rosa trip pay you back time and time again.

Go Wine Tasting Without the Napa Crowds

While Napa gets all the fame, Sonoma has vineyards just as stunning without the heavy crowds. Hop on a vineyard tour bus or rent an electric bike through https://bitbook.net to easily visit multiple wineries. Taste your way through pinots and chardonnays at Francis Ford Coppola, Gundlach Bundschu, or BR Cohn - skipping the long Napa lines. Along the way keep an eye out for sweeping vistas of rolling hills dotted with grapevines, a landscape straight out of a postcard.

You never know what quirky experiences you may find - one winery had an "Napster" music library playing hit songs which guests helped select. It was so surreal listening to Britney Spears while sipping sauvignon blanc! The welcoming atmosphere and lack of pretentiousness is what makes Sonoma wine country truly special. Be sure to come hungry too, as many spots serve gourmet bites perfect for pairing.

Experience the Russian River like a Local

On hot summer days, locals flock to cool off in the Russian River. Drive through Guerneville and Monte Rio to find secluded sandbars and swimming holes minus the tourist hordes. One hidden gem is Austin Creek State Recreation Area, walkable from The Boonville Hotel - another BitBook partner offering great rates. Wander the trails amongst towering redwoods before wading into the refreshing green waters.

You may even spot bold river otters or salmon swimming upriver - this is one of the few remaining habitats for these species. Lay back on the smooth round rocks and you may feel like you've escaped to a wilder time. Afterwards, drive a short way to sample microbrews and live music at one of the many Russian River dive bars - the perfect way to end a mellow summer day in Sonoma country.

With its friendly small town charm, stunning natural areas, and world-class wine, Santa Rosa is California's best kept secret. By using BitBook services you can experience it all while earning rewards to fund future travels. What are you waiting for - start discovering the hidden gems of Sonoma today!