5 Fun Things To Do in Kenwood

Kenwood, California

Wine enthusiasts and nature lovers agree that the tiny, picturesque town of Kenwood (population around 1,000) is a perfect place. Nestled in California’s scenic Sonoma Valley, Kenwood is known for its world-renowned wineries and excellent restaurants.

Here are five fun things to do on a visit to Kenwood. 

1. Revel in Nature at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

A view from on top of the ridge
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, located in the Sonoma County town of Kenwood, California

This state-protected park includes the beautiful Mayacamas Mountains, Sonoma Creek, a seasonal waterfall, and the 2,729-foot Bald Mountain. Discover overlook ridges, open meadows with oak and fir, and a redwood forest. You may also spot acorn-grinding rocks as a Wappo village was once here. Enjoy fishing and camping, plus 25 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

2. Find Garden Art at Swede’s Feeds

A sign for the garden store has sculptures of metal animals sitting on top
Swede’s Feeds, Kenwood, California

Driving through Kenwood, it’s impossible to miss Swede’s Feeds, with eye-catching offerings displayed outside. You might see a 12-foot metal dinosaur or tall giraffe, a rainbow of colorful pots, and fanciful multi-story birdhouses. This hand-made folk art is welded from oil barrels and machinery gears to create fun, beautiful pieces like blazing-pink flamingoes, peacocks, and man-sized roosters. Inside, check out beautiful artisan wine racks crafted from wine barrel staves and redwood chicken coops.

3. Tour a Kenwood Winery

The stone winery is surrounded by vineyards
VJB Vineyards, Cellars & Marketplace, located in the town of Kenwood, California

Some of California’s best wineries are located in tiny Kenwood. Tasting rooms are clustered together so you can taste and walk. On the eastern side, impressive estate wineries sprawl out among the rolling vineyards.

Take in the scenery at Landmark Vineyards and Kunde Family Winery. Experience wine and food pairing at Ledson Winery & Vineyards. Marvel over Mediterranean gardens at Chateau St. Jean. Sample Italian wines and hand-crafted gelato and truffles at VJB Vineyards, Cellars & Marketplace.

For a full list of area wineries, read our guide to Wine Tasting in Kenwood.

4. Picnic in the Park

The interior of the gastropub
Palooza Brewery & Gastropub, Kenwood, California

The five-acre Kenwood Plaza Park offers shaded lawns, a gazebo, a play structure, and picnic tables — making it the perfect spot for a Sonoma Wine Country picnic. Choose tasty picnic supplies at the Kenwood Market or order food to go at Palooza Brewery and Gastropub.

Take a stroll to the Kenwood Depot, a historic landmark built in 1887. With vineyard views, this durable stone depot is one of the last relics left from the old railway route and the fascinating era of train travel.

5. Relax at the Kenwood Inn & Spa

Surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and ancient oaks — this Mediterranean-style inn is a tranquil retreat. More than two-and-a-half lush acres of exquisite grounds beckon with pathways through terraced courtyards, trickling fountains, hot tubs, and a sparkling pool. Experience luxurious therapies and soothing, personalized spa treatments for individuals and couples.

For more inspiration, visit Places to Stay in Kenwood.


Written by Sonoma Insider Suzie Rodriguez

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