Published: Sep 18, 2024

As fall colors start to emerge and cooler mornings take hold, Sonoma County invites visitors to immerse themselves in the harvest season. Renowned for our world-class wines, exceptional cuisine, and convivial hospitality, Sonoma County shines as an fall destination. During this season, visitors can experience a myriad of autumn-themed activities and events, from lively festivals and seasonal wine tastings to culinary creations inspired by the harvest. Enjoy scenic drives past tranquil rivers and valleys, rolling vineyards and majestic redwoods, and crashing waves along the Sonoma coastline — with each turn revealing a new facet of Sonoma County’s natural beauty. Whether exploring our quaint towns or soaking in the landscape, Sonoma County offers memorable autumn experiences in a destination where Life Opens Up. 

New in Hotels 

The 2024 California MICHELIN Guide 
The California restaurant selection joins the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay in California and around the world.  Every hotel in the Guide is chosen for its extraordinary style, service, and personality. Two remarkable Sonoma County properties in Healdsburg earned the distinction with The Madrona standing out in the “Plus” collection, and SingleThread hotel and restaurant with the rare distinction of being awarded three MICHELIN Stars, a green-starred restaurant, and three Keys. 2024 Bib Gourmand restaurants include Folktable (Sonoma), Glen Ellen Star (Glen Ellen), Khom Loi (Sebastopol), Molti Amici (Healdsburg), Ramen Gaijin (Sebastopol), Stockhome (Petaluma), and Valley (Sonoma). 

The Sandman Hotel 
The Sandman in Santa Rosa is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Originally a mission-style motel built in the 1970s, it was transformed by Yang Capital in 2015 and is now managed by Point Hospitality Group. Known for its spacious rooms and laid-back vibe, The Sandman features a renovated pool area, the Pool House & Bar, a Backyard with bocce and fire pits, and a new Wellness Dome for yoga and meditation. Recent updates include remodeled guest rooms with walk-in showers and kitchenettes, a revamped pool bar menu, new Ty Williams murals, and a fitness center with Peloton equipment. 

New in Wineries 

Amista Vineyards  
Amista Vineyards has earned organic certification of its Morningsong Vineyard by the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF). Celebrating two decades of leadership and innovation in Healdsburg’s wine community, Amista has consistently focused on producing sparkling wines and Rhône varietals. This organic certification represents the latest achievement in the winery’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its farming practices. Amista’s dedication to sustainability also extends beyond winemaking, with contributions to environmental conservation efforts, such as restoring Dry Creek and creating habitats for endangered species, as well as implementing energy-efficient practices in their tasting room. 

New in Restaurants 

Campanella Kitchen & Garden Patio 
Campanella in Sebastopol is reinterpreting traditional Italian cuisine through a California lens. Using fresh, local ingredients, Campanella offers a modern twist on classic dishes in the form of a love letter to the owner’s Brooklyn born and raised Nonna. Campanella’s menu is classic East Coast Italian with some modern culinary touches. The menu features a variety of innovative dishes that maintain the heart of traditional Italian flavors while incorporating local produce and creative presentations. This approach aims to provide diners with a unique dining experience that honors Italian culinary heritage while celebrating Sonoma County’s rich agricultural bounty. 

Graton Resort & Casino 
Graton Resort & Casino has added renowned Chef Roy Ellamar to its culinary team. Known for his focus on local ingredients and innovative dishes, Chef Ellamar brings a wealth of experience and creativity. A Hawaii native, he honed his skills in top kitchens in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, including L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon and Bellagio’s Harvest by Roy Ellamar. His latest venture, Fine Company in Downtown Summerlin, earned critical acclaim. At Graton Resort & Casino, Chef Ellamar will lead a new rooftop restaurant as part of the resort’s $1 billion expansion, featuring a dynamic menu that showcases Sonoma County’s freshest seasonal produce. 

Rocker Oysterfeller’s at Lucas Wharf 
Brandon Guenther and Shona Campbell have unveiled their third Southern-style roadhouse eatery at Lucas Wharf in Bodega Bay. This new addition aspires to elevate the dining experience at Lucas Wharf, a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. By merging Brandon Guenther’s culinary creations with the coastal charm of Bodega Bay, Rocker Oysterfeller’s at Lucas Wharf promises to bring a fresh wave of innovative dishes and a revitalized dining experience. 

New in Airlines 

Avelo Airlines – Sonoma County Airport 
Avelo Airlines is set to enhance its route network with new flights from Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS) to Salt Lake City, Utah, and Ontario, California, starting in October. This expansion is part of Avelo’s broader strategy to continue to grow its service offerings and strengthen its presence at the Sonoma County hub. With these additions, Avelo will offer flights to nine destinations from STS, including Bend/Redmond, Boise, Kalispell, Las Vegas, Los Angeles (via BUR), Palm Springs, and Portland, OR (via SLE). In addition to Avelo’s new routes, Alaska Airlines provides service from STS to Burbank, Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Portland, Seattle, and Las Vegas (starting October 1). American Airlines offers daily flights to Dallas and Phoenix from STS. 

Avelo Expands Popular ‘Wine Travels Free’ Program 
Avelo Airlines is expanding its “Wine Travels Free” program to cover all 14 destinations it serves in the Western U.S., including eight currently serviced by Charles M Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS). Unlike before, wine can now originate from any of these markets, not just STS. Launched at STS in spring, this initiative makes Avelo the second airline at the airport to offer complimentary wine transport, following Alaska Airlines’ similar program since 2007. The expansion aims to enhance travel options and boost economic activity in Sonoma County, benefiting local businesses and tourism. Avelo Airlines’ move marks a key development for both the Sonoma County Airport and regional travel infrastructure. 

New in Experiences and Events 

Grape Stomp in the Vineyard – Gables Wine Country Inn 
Have you always wanted to experience the joy of grape stomping beside a beautiful vineyard? Kick off your shoes at the Gables Wine Country Inn for a hands-on harvest celebration. Enjoy stomping fresh grapes, sipping Sonoma County wines, and indulging in delicious appetizers. With grape-stomping music setting the vibe, it’s the perfect opportunity for laughter and connection. As you dip your toes into the cool, fresh grapes, you’ll feel the joy and excitement that comes from participating in a time-honored winemaking ritual. Bring your friends, family, or a special someone for a memorable vineyard adventure! September 28, October 5, and October 12 | 3:00 – 5:00 pm 

Wellness & Wine at Head High Wines 
Head High Wines is presenting a “Wellness & Wine” at their picturesque winery, designed to harmonize the art of fine wine with the principles of wellness. This event features a holistic approach that begins with a guided yoga session conducted by a certified instructor, focusing on relaxation and mindfulness. Following the yoga practice, attendees will enjoy a curated wine tasting of Head High Wines’ premium selections, which are crafted to enhance the sensory experience and complement the tranquility achieved through yoga. The event aims to offer a dual benefit: a chance to rejuvenate the body and mind through yoga, and the pleasure of savoring expertly crafted wines.  “Wellness & Wine” is an opportunity for attendees to explore the intersection of wellness and wine, creating a balanced experience that promotes both physical and emotional well-being. Guests will also receive a comparative set of Head High 2023 Skin Contact White Wine and Non-Alcoholic Skin Contact White Wine. This event promises an enriching experience where the peaceful practice of yoga meets the sophisticated enjoyment of fine wine, all within a welcoming and tranquil setting in Sonoma County | October 5 

Jordan Vineyards and Winery’s Halloween Tour & Tasting 
Jordan Winery’s Halloween Tour & Tasting offers a unique and festive experience set against the backdrop of the winery’s scenic Alexander Valley estate. This special event combines a guided tour of Jordan Winery’s vineyards and facilities with a seasonal tasting of its renowned wines. The Halloween-themed experience is enhanced by seasonal decorations and an atmosphere that embraces the spirit of the holiday. Attendees can expect an engaging exploration of the winery’s history and winemaking process, along with a chance to sample a selection of Jordan’s wines in a setting that artfully blends holiday cheer with educational content. The Halloween Tour & Tasting provides an opportunity for wine enthusiasts to enjoy both high-quality wines and a touch of festive fun | October 29 – November 3. 

Sonoma County Cannabis Tourism 
Sonoma County boasts award-winning cannabis farms and transformative wellness retreats. To enhance the visitor experience, Sonoma County Tourism has launched a dedicated cannabis resource page. This page highlights cannabis travel experiences, cannabis-friendly hotels, and cannabis-infused wellness getaways in our destination. By promoting education and responsible consumption, Sonoma County Tourism empowers visitors to make informed decisions about cannabis-related adventures in our region. 

New in Lifestyle 

Wanderlust California  
Wanderlust California, a new boutique at the Barlow in Sebastopol, brings Boho chic to Sonoma County. The shop has quickly become a hot spot for its collection of versatile Hippie-style outfits, vintage belts, antique glassware, handmade jewelry, and other eclectic accessories. Longtime friends Vanessa Flores and Teara Smith realized their dream of owning a boutique named after their shared love of travel. Flores, with a background in retail from her years at Gathered in Healdsburg, and Smith, a former hairstylist with a knack for style, joined forces after discovering the perfect location at the Barlow. The small yet vibrant space features a carefully curated selection of new and vintage items, including local artisan-made housewares and jewelry. With plans to continually refresh their inventory, they aim to offer customers a dynamic shopping experience that reflects their passion for creativity and local craftsmanship. 

For the Good of the Cause 

Benovia Winery Launches Good Press Pinot Noir to Support Local Journalism 
Benovia Winery has launched Good Press Pinot Noir, a limited 2022 release from the Russian River Valley, to support Sonoma County journalism. For each bottle sold, $20 will go to The Santa Rosa Press Democrat Journalism Trust, thanks to matching contributions from the Anderson Family and Green Foundations. The wine features Sonoma artist Keith Wicks’ label art, highlighting the importance of community journalism. With only 100 cases available, this medium-bodied Pinot Noir, crafted by winemaker Mike Sullivan, boasts vibrant cherry and pomegranate notes. Proceeds will fund journalism scholarships, training, and resources in Sonoma County, with a total $60 contribution to the Trust per bottle sold. 

Russian River Redwoods 
Sonoma County officials have approved the $6.2 million purchase of 394 acres of mixed redwood forest bought in 2023 by Save The Redwoods League to ensure it was protected from logging or development. The property on the south side of the Russian River, between Guerneville and Monte Rio, includes almost a mile of Russian River frontage and the enormous Clar Tree, an ancient redwood believed to be more than 2,000 years old.  

Sonoma is Officially a Pet-Friendly City 
The City of Sonoma has officially embraced a pet-friendly approach by adopting a new resolution that highlights the crucial role pets play in the community. Spearheaded by Pet’s Lifeline, this resolution seeks to improve local policies and infrastructure to better serve pets and their owners. Key initiatives include expanding pet-friendly spaces, enhancing animal services, and encouraging responsible pet ownership. This commitment underscores a growing recognition of pets as vital to personal and community well-being. 

Recent Accolades 

  • TIME Magazine has spotlighted Guerneville’s Mine + Farm in their prestigious World’s Greatest Places of 2024. list. This curated collection now spans 100 distinct destinations, celebrating exceptional establishments worldwide renowned for their unique and innovative experiences.  
  • Healdsburg’s Molti Amici restaurant has been recognized as one of California’s 13 culinary gems deemed “too good to keep secret” by the 2024 Michelin Guide. 
  • The Picholine Blend EVOO from Gold Ridge Organic Farms in Sebastopol achieved the highest honors at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair’s annual Olive Oil Competition, winning both Double Gold and Best of Show. 
  • Apartment Therapy, the lifestyle blog and publishing company specializing in home design and décor, has named Petaluma to their 2024 list of “Vibiest Towns in America.” 
  • At the American Cheese Society competition held last month in Buffalo, New York, two Sonoma County cheesemakers distinguished themselves with top honors. Laura Chenel Cheeses garnered seven awards, including three first-place medals for their exceptional goat cheeses. Bellwether Farms also achieved notable recognition, securing a first-place medal for their Crème Fraîche and a second-place award for their fresh sheep’s milk cheese. 
  • Griffo Distillery, renowned for its exceptional spirits, has received top honors for their Scott Street Gin across numerous prestigious competitions in 2024.  
  • Wethrift.com unveiled its list of the top cities in the U.S. for luxury on a budget — and it concluded that Sonoma, was the best destination to have a 5-star experience. 
  • Graton Resort and Casino was included in a USA’s Today list of “10 best casinos that aren’t in Las Vegas,” coming in at No. 4. The USA Today list, part of the newspaper’s 10Best Readers’ Choice awards, was selected by an expert panel and voted on by readers. 

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About Sonoma County Tourism     

Sonoma County Tourism is the region’s destination stewardship organization. Inspiring travel to the region through a variety of sales and marketing programs aimed at consumers, meeting and event planners, the travel trade, and media, the organization strives to ensure responsible tourism helps create a robust economy for the Sonoma County region. For more information visit sonomacounty.com.            

Media Contacts:      
Birgitt Vaughan, Director, Public Relations    
Chris Vomvolakis, Senior Manager, Consumer Public Relations     
publicrelations@sonomacounty.com