Things To Do
Explore Downtown Petaluma
Downtown Petaluma is SO cute and charming. There is great food, great shopping (especially antiques...Natalie's fav), great bars, great breweries (SO many, including Lagunitas!) - something for everyone! And all very walkable.
Wine Tasting!!
Wine country is right in our backyard! Petaluma sits at the gateway to both Sonoma and Napa wine country, with dozens of wineries just a short drive away. Sonoma is our personal recommendation—it's a little closer than Napa, less touristy, and full of incredible wines and beautiful scenery. If you have time during your stay, we highly recommend making a day of it! Just remember to book transportation in advance.
Explore the Coast (it is incredible, trust!)
One of the best parts of staying in Petaluma is being just a short drive from the stunning Northern California coastline. Just ~30-45 minutes from Petaluma, you'll find rugged cliffs, scenic beaches (Point Reyes), charming coastal towns (Bodega Bay and Jenner), and breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. Remember to bundle up! Ubers will be unreliable towards the coast. Our recommendations: Bodega Bay (cute coastal town on the ocean), Dillon Beach (right on ocean), Point Reyes (great for hiking), Tomales Bay (more of a peninsula with really great water-front restaurants: Nicks Cove, Hog Island Oyster Bar)
The Boat Oyster Bar at the Hog Island Oyster Farm
One of our favorite local destinations, Hog Island Oyster Co. is worth the (short and beautiful!) drive. Nestled on Tomales Bay (just 15 minutes from our venue!), it's known for incredibly fresh oysters, laid-back waterfront dining, and beautiful views. Hog Island has many locations in the Bay Area now - this one is the OG. Grab a picnic table, order a dozen oysters (or two), and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the water!
Brewsters Beer Garden
Just a 5 minute walk from Hotel Petaluma, Brewsters Beer Garden is a lively local gathering spot known for its craft beer selection, outdoor patio, and fun atmosphere. With plenty of seating, lawn games, live music on select days, and a menu full of crowd-pleasing favorites, it's a great spot to enjoy a drink, and hang with friends!
Marin French Cheese Co.
Founded in 1865, Marin French Cheese Co. is the oldest cheese company in the United States and a charming destination just outside Petaluma. Stop by to sample locally made cheeses, enjoy a picnic by the pond, and take in the peaceful countryside setting. It's a wonderful spot for a leisurely afternoon and a taste of one of Northern California's most beloved culinary traditions.