petaluma, california
Petaluma. A charming, walkable, historical town in wine country with excellent boutiques, farm to table food scene, amazing coffee, and kind people.
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TRAVEL TO PETALUMA
There’s a small airport in Santa Rosa (STS) about 30 mins from Petaluma, and the main airport is in San Francisco (SFO). There’s an airporter shuttle called that can zip you from SFO to Petaluma. It take about an hour and a half. It’s comfortable and it doesn’t make any stops along the way! You’ll also beat traffic because you get to go in the carpool lane. When you get off the airporter, however, you may need to Uber to your hotel, as it’s about a ten minute drive to downtown.
🌮Stop at El Roys taco truck when you get off the airporter. It’s amazing!
GETTING AROUND
Downtown Petaluma is quite walkable and there’s more than enough to do along the main streets, Petaluma Blvd. and Kentucky Street. There’s also a train that will take you to the neighboring towns around Petaluma. I’d recommend having a car in the area or planning for a few Uber rides to get the full experience.
COST
The cost of food and hotels are lower than the neighboring city of San Francisco, but expect pretty typical Bay Area prices.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Petaluma is a charming hotel in the middle of town. The location can’t be beat as you’re in walking distance to all the best bars, shopping, coffee, and restaurants. They have a free candelit yoga class and the sweetest little bar in their lobby. Hampton Inn Petaluma is charming and it’s close to the SMART train station. It’s not as close to downtown but it’s certainly walkable. If you’re looking for more of a boutique hotel, Metro Hotel is fun and it’s very close to downtown as well.
❄️During the holiday season, the hotel is decked out with a beautiful tree and the courtyard ‘snows’ a few times a day.
WHERE TO EAT
Petaluma is known for amazing restaurants!
Brunch: The Tea Room has amazing meals, pastries, and coffee. I love their tofu hash and my family loves their pancakes and eggs. I’ve been eyeing their scones… 👀
Spanish: Sol Food, Tortilla Real, and What a Chicken (their veggie burrito is bomb despite their name!)
Chinese: Lily Kai
Japanese: Gohan
Upscale: Central Market, Luma
Michelin: Stockhome
Fun: The Block - think outdoor firepits, food trucks, and live music. Brewsters - must see during the holidays!
WHERE TO DRINK
Crooked Goat is the spot to be with a group. They have big tables and couches, and fun 21+ events in the back like karaoke.
Lagunitas is a fun experience. They have a great music lineup if you can time a show!
Kapu Bar is a fun experience with tikki bar drinks, moody vibes, and pin ball machines.
If you want to end the night with a classy bang, I’d highly recommend Barber Lee. Their drinks are strong and thoughtfully crafted with care.
SHOPPING
The boutiques downtown on Kentucky St and Petaluma Blvd will keep you busy. If you’re into thrifting, there are some great options as well. I’d recommend walking through both streets and walk to the river for the full experience.
COFFEE
Lots of options for coffee and treats in Petaluma! My favs are Avid Coffee and The Bagel Mill. If you’re also looking for pastries, I’d go with Stellina Pronto or Sarmentine Bakery. Grand Central has a nice view of the water, empanadas, lots of chocolate, and great coffee. They’re also owned by the sweetest local family!
CUTE TOWNS AROUND PETALUMA
Petaluma is absolutely adorable, but if you’re here for a few days, there are some super cute towns nearby. Healdsburg is my absolute fav. If you’d like to go to the coast, I’d recommend going to Doran Beach (30 min drive, parking under $10).
OVERALL THOUGHTS
Petaluma is the sweetest little town. It’s walkable, safe, sweet, and relaxing. Highly recommend this charming destination in California wine country. 10/10.
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