This post first appeared on Forbes Travel Guide here.
Napa
First and foremost, wine is the main draw in Napa Valley, and many wineries are worth a visit, even for those who are not wine tasting. My personal favorite for all-in-one wine, fun, and education is
Raymond Vineyards.
In Napa proper, visit
Oxbow Market for the best food purveyors all under one roof. Check the schedule at the
Uptown Theater for top music and entertainment events, or board the
Wine Train for a leisurely gourmet ride though the vines.
The
Old Faithful Geyser in Calistoga, and the
Petrified Forrest are wonders of nature at the north end of the Napa valley.
Sonoma
I think the best attractions in Sonoma County are found outdoors. Grab your hiking boots and enjoy the rugged beauty of the
Sonoma Coast, the tranquility of the soaring redwoods in
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve Park, or the relaxing
Russian River.
In Northern Sonoma County, follow The
Wine Road for the best wineries in Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Alexander Valley. And for an experience way beyond sniff, swirl and sip, check out
Francis Ford Coppola Winery, located in Geyserville, with an array of activities including a resort style pool with cabanas, and a mini-museum of film memorabilia.
Fans of Peanuts comic strip will want to make a pilgrimage to the
Charles Schultz Museum and keep an eye peeled for character statues scattered all around Santa Rosa. In tiny
Bodega, flock to the spot where Alfred Hitchcock filmed the famous schoolhouse scene from The Birds.
