If you are in the city for any time beforehand, a run along the Marina Green is an absolute must. It's our neighborhood route, and a 5 mile jaunt that Jason will some times get dragged along for--usually at his own will! Start at Fort Mason (or anywhere along Marina Blvd) and take the scenic and flat route down to the end of the path at Hopper Hands where there are great bridge views, perhaps some surfers depending on the swells, and if you're lucky you'll see some wildlife and catch the San Francisco seals! From Fort Mason to hopper hands and back is 5(ish) miles, but if you are feeling ambitious you can go to the top of the bridge and over to Baker Beach for an longer journey. When you return to Fort Mason be sure stop at Equator Coffee--the vanilla cold brew cream is exceptional.
Just a hop skip and a jump from the wedding venue, there are a plethora of wineries that offer some of Sonoma's finest wines and most epic views. One of our favorites is Ram's Gate where you can have a full tasting or just a glass! Some other classics in the area are Cline Winery, Viansa or you can get a sneak peak at the venue and check out Jacuzzi Family Vineyards!
Known for picturesque views and small lot wines, B.R. Cohen is quaint, beautiful and an ideal place to spend an afternoon! Located at the heart of the Sonoma Valley in Glen Ellen, and open Thursday to Monday from 10am-5pm.
If you are coming to wine country but wine isn't your thing, we have the place for you. Hen House has become a Franklin family staple and it's rare to see Jason without one in hand at a family dinner. They have brewery locations in Novato, Santa Rosa and Petaluma--all driving distance from Sonoma. Our favorites are the Stoked Hazy and the Incredible IPA, and if you're lucky and its on tap, a Big Chicken.
For us, its not a weekend getaway without a good outdoor adventure. We love this park for it's amazing hiking with natural views of California rolling hills and scenery. Use the link for an All Trails guided route, or head to the park to explore on your own!
About an hour west downtown Sonoma--if you are up for a bigger adventure--is Sonoma Coast State Park. We love spending a day on the move, so if you want to honor our wedding going for a hike along the coast is surely one way to do it! Sonoma Coast State park is one of our favorite stopping points coming back from Mendocino--our favorite Northern California getaway. With sweeping ocean views, it cannot be beat. Start early and give yourself time for a winery on the way home!
For an iconic Sonoma dining experience, have brunch, lunch or dinner at the girl and the fig in downtown Sonoma, just on the side of Sonoma square. It offers local food and a quaint ambiance. Reservations are recommended as it will fill up quickly!