Steph & Tony
Things To Do
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Armstrong Woods is just down the road from our rental so be sure to take a breath-taking walk through the majestic redwoods. There is a $10 park fee for the day (unless you have a CA State Park Pass - ask the group as you may be able to borrow one). Be sure to check out Colonel Armstrong, the 1,400 year old redwood giant!
Stumptown Brewery
The Forest Estate is right next door to Stumptown Brewery so walk over and hang out here during any weekend down times! We won’t be providing breakfast or lunch on Friday or Saturday as folks trickle in, but Stumptown’s an easy, walkable option with food and beer for purchase. In fact, if you don’t see us at the house, someone from our party will probably be hanging at Stumptown! If weather permits, enjoy the lovely grassy picnic area with river-side views. There's usually a taco truck in their parking lot for more walkable food options. Dinner and drinks will be provided at the house Friday and Saturday nights.
The Farmhand
The Farmhand Restaurant and Deli is also right next door to our rental. They make sandwiches to order, have some basic groceries, a full coffee and espresso bar, breakfast foods (gluten-free options), wine and beer for purchase. Like Stumptown, they have a cute picnic area with views of the redwoods and Russian River, should weather permit outdoor seating. We aren’t providing breakfast or lunch Friday or Saturday as folks will be trickling in, but Farmhand is an easy, walkable option for you that should have something for everyone! We have multiple kitchens at the house which you are welcome to keep any extra food on hand. Friday dinner and drinks, and Saturday dinner and drinks will be provided at the house.
Sonoma Zipline Adventures
One of Tony and Steph's favorite adventures is ziplining through the redwoods. Book a zipline session on their website, or if you want to go all out, they even have a treehouse hotel room.
Nimble & Finn's
Don't leave without trying Nimble & Finns handmade ice cream, just down the road in downtown Guerneville! With flavors like lavender honeycomb, whiskey butterscotch, maple bacon brittle, strawberry buttermilk, rhubard streusel, and bourbon chocolate-covered pretzels, they really can't go wrong. This awesome sister duo uses organic dairy from Straus Creamery, a beloved Sonoma County farm (look for Straus happy cows if you go driving in the hills!). Try their ICE CREAM COCKTAILS if you're feeling adventurous :) Locations in both Guerneville and Santa Rosa depending on where you're at.
Johnson's Beach
Guerneville is most known for the Russian River, which offers scenic redwood-lined beaches with ample opportunity for river sports. Unfortunately, May is still off-season so the river current is a little rough. Local officials don't recommend swimming yet but it can still be nice relaxing by the river if weather permits. We're down the street from Johnson's Beach, or you can view the Russian River from our backyard, Stumptown, or Farmhand!
Korbel Winery
We're just down the road from Korbel Winery so don't forget to stop by for a free taste of champagne! They also have full seated wine tastings for a fee, or deli sandwiches and salads for a nice lunch on the patio.
Matanzas Creek Winery
Matanzas Creek holds a special place in Tony & Steph’s hearts, as it’s right next door to the ranch house where they lived and first fell in love. Enjoy a glass of wine on the patio while taking in the rolling green hillsides. Take some wine down to play a free game of bochee ball, or walk around the lavender fields where Tiny and Daisy used to love going for walks. Cute fact: Tony proposed to Steph (the first time) at sunset out at the ranch next door! You’ll find pics of our proposal in the Gallery, or go see the beautiful views yourself at Matanzas!
Martinelli Vineyards & Winery
You might know Martinelli's for their world-famous sparkling apple cider. These guys make wine too, so it's a fun tasting for winos and sober-curious alike. West Sonoma County is known for its apples so try some cider while you're here. You'll find Martinelli's just down the road from our rental.
Rainbow Cattle Company
If Americana gay bars are your scene, Rainbow Cattle Co is for you in downtown Guernville.
Underwood Bar and Bistro
This casual bistro is a favorite among locals for its cozy atmosphere, eclectic menu, and vintage decor. Located in the small West County town of Graton (about 15m from our rental), it's a unique mix of French-inspired and California cuisine.
The Sebastopol Farmers' Market
Sundays from 9:30am-1:30pm, Sebastopol has a small farmers market. The market itself is just average, but it’s a great town for a morning stroll (with hot drinking chocolate from the farmer’s market of course). On Main Street, you’ll find Sebastopol Cookie Co, beautiful handmade bath products at Sumbody, herbal remedies at Rosemary’s Garden, and a great lunch at Hopmonk, Ramen Gajin, or Handline. Fun fact: we got our rings from Joann Lustig at Sebastopol Art Gallery on Main Street! Get high tea at Muir’s Tea, or hippie concoctions at Soft Medicine. On the bougier side, the Barlow has Taylor Lane for hipster coffee, Rewind Arcade Bar, Guayaki Yerba Mate, Golden State Cider, Woodfour Brews, Fern Bar (for the plant-lovers), and Community Market with healthy pre-made food. Walk down Florence Ave to see the “junk art sculpture” gallery which you’ll find famously scattered around town. Free parking in the Barlow or nearby neighborhoods
Ramen Gaijin
For a fantastic bowl of ramen, check out Ramen Gajin in the nearby town of Sebastopol. Gluten-free options are available, and their gluten-free chicken wing appetizer is to die for. Check out the cool murals throughout the restaurant that were created by Steph's friend, Lois - a local artist who works there :)
Wild Flour Bread
Daily, fresh-baked homemade breads and unique treats that are truly THE best. They have a garden with sunflowers where you can sit outside to picnic. Open Friday through Monday 8am-6pm, and the earlier the better so you can get the freshest-baked. Gluten-free scones available🤤
The Rewind Arcade
If pin-ball and PacMan is your vibe, grab a beer and come play some retro arcade games at this little arcade bar in Sebastopol.
Thrifting in Petaluma
Downtown Petaluma has some good thrift shopping and antiquing if that's your vibe! Opera House Collective is a fun spot for clothes shopping, and they have a vintage emporium upstairs. Downtown Petaluma has cute 19th century buildings with cool alley ways and sidewalk pianos. Grab a hand-pie at Petaluma Pie Company, some local cheese at Petaluma Creamery, walk the Petaluma River Walk, or get a giant deep-dish at Old Chicago Pizza. Fun fact: Old Chicago’s in a historic building that used to be a brothel in the 1800’s! Locals love to tell you that it’s haunted. MacNears and the Phoenix Theater (also supposedly haunted), often have live music nearby.
A Day At the Coast
If fresh oysters are your thing, head down to Tamales Bay Oyster Co for a BYO picnic. You can either shuck your own or they’ll shuck for you with lots of options (BBQ are awesome). Bring warm layers! Our Northern CA beaches can be chilly this time of year (definitely not swimmable) but still beautiful to explore. Get a drink at Nick’s Cove and take your drink out to the old house on the misty docks. Hike in Point Reyes, drive through the Cypress Tree Tunnel, and take a tour of the abandoned lighthouse while you’re out there. Catch an epic sunset at Stinson Beach, and harvest your own local spring water (safe & tested) at the base of Mount Tamalpias! If you’d prefer further north, go tidepooling at Duncan Mills or see Goat Rock! Get salt water taffy at the local beach shops, and the freshest chowder & seafood at Spudpoint Crab Co.
Muir Woods National Monument
It's a bit of a drive and be sure to make reservations as it can get crowded, but you may enjoy visiting this national monument of towering redwoods and truly magical forests. Ideally, it's best for week-days if you happen to be staying into the week.
Hans Fahden Vineyards
Hans Fahden was one of Tony and Steph’s earlier dates. Tony had never been wine tasting and thought it was really fancy, so he showed up in a full blown suit. When the staff saw how dressed up Tony was, they thought we were there for a wedding consultation and gave us the best table in the house. We drank too much Viognier, imagined our pretend wedding, and Hans Fahden quickly became a nostalgic favorite of ours. Cheesy stories aside, this is a cool place to stop by on a nice day! Take a stroll around the fairy-tale-like property, check out the Petrified Forest up the road, and/or keep driving into Calistoga for a day of mud-baths, hotsprings, and Mambo Sushi! It’s about a 40m drive from Guerneville so I recommend hitting up a few spots as long as you’re out there
Russian River Brewing Company
For the beer snobs, be sure to stop at Russian River Brewery a few towns over in downtown Santa Rosa. Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger originated here and have a serious cult-following. While the famous Pliny the Younger is only released once per year, they have many much-loved IPAs, and a sampler platter so you can try them all.
Spring Lake Regional Park
This easy, paved 2mile loop around Spring Lake is a peaceful and beautiful walk, where Tony and Steph had their second date (with Tiny and Daisy). It’s really easy to get to if you just have an hour to squeeze in some nature time. East West Cafe across the street is a nice lunch spot.
Epicenter Laser Tag
When they were first dating, Tony and Steph had a tradition of playing laser tag with friends a lot of Wednesdays after work. Epicenter is a good spot if you’re traveling with kids… or to let your inner kid out. Bowling, trampoline park, arcade, axe throwing, laser tag. Just don’t get the nachos.
A'Roma Roasters Coffee & Tea
Tony and Steph had their first date at Aroma’s (as it’s known by the locals). It was supposed to be a quick coffee, but they were having such a good time that they spent the whole day and next day together. Cheesiness aside, locals love Aroma’s for its herbal tea selection (also available in bulk. Steph’s faves are Long Life and Temple of Health!). Snag free parking in the back lot on Wilson if spots are open (only the row closest to the train tracks is for Aroma’s; front row’s Hotel LaRosa). For excellent eats, walk to LoCoCo’s, Khoom Lanna, Grossman’s Noshery, Stark’s Steakhouse, or Jackson’s. For dessert, Nimble & Finn’s ice cream or Jackson’s beignets all the way! Arlene Francis Center and Aroma’s often have live music on weekend evenings.
Lococo's Cucina Rustica
For authentic, old-world Italian food in downtown Santa Rosa, check out LoCoco's. They are owned by a sweet Italian family who puts a lot of love into the food. Mike & Annette (Steph's parents) are close friends with the owners, so be sure to tell them you're here for Steph & Tony's wedding! Fun fact: Mike and Annette once visited the owners’ family in Italy and got to meet the owner’s grandma
Snoopy's Home Ice
Charles Schultz, creator of the Peanuts comic and Snoopy, was from Sonoma County. If you're a Snoopy fan, you may enjoy ice skating at the Snoopy's Ice Arena and checking out the Charles Schultz Museum next door. If you spend time in Santa Rosa, you'll probably notice that the town is covered in Snoopy character statues; It can be a fun game to try to spot them.
Hot Springs
If hotsprings are your thing, there are many around here! If you happen to be heading up north, stop for a natural hotsprings soak at Orr Hotsprings. Orr is a small retreat center with overnight cabin options, camping, and a communal kitchen for food storage. Reservations required, and this is a clothing optional bath-house but guests are welcome to wear swimsuits. If you are interested in other hotsprings, there are many in the area, including: Morton Warms Springs, Harbin Hotsprings, Wilbur Hotsprings, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, Agua Caliente, Indian Springs, Dr. Wilkinson’s, and Vichy Springs. Some are more natural and rustic (usually clothing optional), while others are spa-like environments (suits required).
Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary
Osmosis Day Spa offers a variety of relaxing treatments including massages, facials, and a unique enzyme cedar-bathing ritual from Japan. The ritual is similar to a mud bath but uses ground cedar and rice bran mixture to create a soothing bath-like experience. It's a beautiful and peaceful setting nestled in the redwood forests.
McEvoy Ranch
McEvoy Ranch is one of the largest US producers of organic olive oil. They offer olive oil tasting (and wine tasting) by appointment where you can sit outside and enjoy stunning views. The rolling hills of West Petaluma into West Marin are truly breath-taking, if you drive out that way.
Marin French Cheese Co.
On your scenic drive in the rolling Western Petaluma hillside, stop by this cute, family-owned cheese company that's been a local favorite since 1865. Pick up some handmade cheese and snacks to enjoy a picnic by the cute outdoor pond.
Lombardi's | Gourmet Deli & BBQ
Lombardi's BBQ is a favorite casual lunch or dinner spot in Petaluma. Their BBQ chicken dinner hot off the grill feeds 4 for only $20.99.
Helen Putnam Regional Park
Helen Putnam is a great place to go for a not-too-challenging hike. Look for wildflowers in the rolling green hills! The poppies and lupin should be in bloom.
Lagunitas Brewing Company
A pioneer in the craft beer industry, Lagunitas has a wide range of brews in a lively taproom, usually with live music. While you're in Petaluma, also hit up HenHouse Brewing Co which is known for its innovative and experimental beers, and Brewster's Beer Garden.
Cypress Tree Tunnel
Drive through the famous Cypress Tree Tunnel if you drive out to the coast! It makes for a pretty epic photo opp.
San Francisco
Guerneville's just an hour and 45 minutes north of San Francisco. If you're stopping in the city, you may enjoy spending some time at Lands End Recreation Area, Golden Gate Park, catching some live-music, a comedy show, and/or picking a neighborhood to explore like: the Mission, Haight-Ashbury, or Japan Town. If you don't have a car, you may consider taking the ferry over from Larkspur which makes for a fun day. For SF events and activities, you may wish to check out The Squid List at: dothebay.com/thesquidlist
Napa Valley
You might enjoy checking out Napa Valley while you're in town, considering it's one of the most famous wine-growing regions in the world. Napa can be pretty expensive, however, and you'll find better deals in Sonoma County (an equally wonderful wine-growing region). Some Sonoma County wineries wave the tasting fee with the purchase of 1-2 bottles, including: VJB Cellars, Moshin Vineyards, Alexander Valley, David Coffaro, Meeker Vineyards, Kendall Jackson, Locals Tasting Room, and Blanchard Family Wines. Frick Vineyards might be one of the last truly free tastings. If you're splurging in Napa: check out Shramsberg Winery's candelabra-lit cave tour, lounge in a 14th century-style castle at Castillo de Amorosa, or see aerial views of the entire valley from the world's only winery-gondola-tram at Sterling Vineyards. Have a fantastic lunch at Farmstead on the farm, or dessert by their firepits in the evening. Goose & Gander has legendary cocktails.