Sonoma State Historic Park: A Journey Through California's Past
Discover California's origins at Sonoma State Historic Park, where missions, barracks, and estates whisper tales of the past.
Sonoma State Historic Park, scattered around Sonoma Plaza, preserves key sites in California's transition from Mexican to U.S. control. Explore Mission San Francisco Solano, the northernmost and last of California's 21 missions, and the Sonoma Barracks, once home to Mexican soldiers. General Vallejo's Lachryma Montis estate offers a glimpse into the life of a pivotal figure in California history.
A brief summary to Sonoma State Historic Park
- 20 E Spain St #5729, Sonoma, California, 95476, US
- +1707-938-9560
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Start your visit at the Chalet (visitor center at Vallejo's Home) to get an overview of the park's sites and plan your route.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the park involves walking between different sites around the Sonoma Plaza.
- Check the schedule for docent-led tours, offered on weekends, for in-depth insights into the park's history.
- The entrance fee covers admission to the Mission San Francisco Solano and Vallejo Home only; other sites are free to visit.
- Consider visiting Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park, a 20-minute drive from Sonoma, to further explore General Vallejo's story.
Getting There
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Walking
Sonoma State Historic Park is centered around the Sonoma Plaza, making walking the most convenient way to explore the main sites. From anywhere on the plaza, each of the main historical buildings (Mission San Francisco Solano, Sonoma Barracks, Toscano Hotel) are within a 5-minute walk. General Vallejo's Home (Lachryma Montis) is located approximately half a mile from the Plaza, about a 10-15 minute walk. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Sonoma Plaza is accessible via Sonoma County Transit. Route 40 connects Sonoma to Petaluma, where you can connect to Amtrak. From the Sonoma Plaza bus stop, the Sonoma State Historic Park sites are a short walk away. A single ride on Sonoma County Transit costs around $2.00.
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Driving
If driving, follow signs to Sonoma Plaza. A large free parking lot is available behind the Toscano Hotel and the Sonoma Barracks. From the parking lot, it's a short walk to the various historic sites. Note that parking can be limited during peak season.
Discover more about Sonoma State Historic Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bear Flag Monument (California Historical Landmark #7)
0.1 km
Discover the Bear Flag Monument in Sonoma, CA - a historic landmark commemorating California's Bear Flag Revolt and celebrating the state's rich heritage.
MISSION SAN FRANCISCO SOLANO (California Historical Landmark #3)
0.1 km
Explore the captivating history of Mission San Francisco Solano, California's last mission, and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage.
Salvador Vallejo Adobe (California Historical Landmark #501)
0.2 km
Explore the Salvador Vallejo Adobe, a cherished historical landmark in Sonoma, steeped in California's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.
Site of Haraszthy Villa (California Historical Landmark #392-1)
2.8 km
Explore Haraszthy Villa, a historic landmark in Sonoma Valley, and uncover the roots of California's wine history amidst beautiful vineyard views.
Artesa Vineyards & Winery
9.3 km
Unwind in the scenic beauty of Napa Valley at Artesa Vineyards & Winery, where exquisite wines meet spectacular views.
Domaine Carneros
10.1 km
Experience the elegance of Domaine Carneros, a premier winery in Napa Valley, known for its stunning views and exquisite sparkling wines.
O'Brien Estate Winery
11.7 km
Discover the charm of O'Brien Estate Winery in Napa Valley, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking vineyard views and unforgettable experiences.
Bouchaine Vineyards
13.3 km
Explore Bouchaine Vineyards in Napa Valley for exquisite wines, scenic views, and a delightful insight into the art of winemaking.
Napa Valley Museum
13.8 km
Discover the cultural and artistic treasures of Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Museum, where history and creativity come alive in Yountville.
Perry's Tours
13.8 km
Experience Napa Valley like never before with Perry's Tours, your gateway to unforgettable vineyard adventures and local charm.
California Historical Landmark 828: Veterans Home of California
14.3 km
Explore the Veterans Home of California, a landmark honoring the bravery of veterans, set in the picturesque Yountville, California.
Napa Valley Vine Trail Trailhead at Veterans Home
14.3 km
Discover the beauty of Napa Valley at the Vine Trail Trailhead—your gateway to scenic hiking and biking adventures amidst stunning vineyards.
Cabernet House, an Old World Inn
14.3 km
Experience the charm of Napa Valley at Cabernet House, an Old World Inn—your cozy bed and breakfast retreat surrounded by beautiful vineyards.
Napa Valley Wine Trolley
14.4 km
Explore Napa Valley's stunning vineyards and world-class wineries aboard the charming Napa Valley Wine Trolley for an unforgettable experience.
JaM Cellars
14.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of fine wines and live entertainment at JaM Cellars, Napa's vibrant winery and music venue.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sonoma Barracks
0.0 km
Explore the heart of California history at the Sonoma Barracks, where Mexican soldiers, the Bear Flag Revolt, and the birth of a state converge in this iconic landmark on Sonoma's historic plaza.
Sonoma Plaza
0.1 km
Explore Sonoma Plaza, a vibrant California gem featuring lush gardens, historic sites, unique shopping, and local wine tastings in a picturesque setting.
Sebastiani Theatre
0.2 km
Discover the historic Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma, where classic charm meets modern cinema for an unforgettable movie experience.
Roche Winery
0.2 km
Discover Roche Winery, a charming Sonoma destination offering exquisite wines, stunning vineyard views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all wine lovers.
Readers' Books
0.2 km
Discover a literary gem in Sonoma at Readers' Books, where diverse selections and community events await book lovers in a cozy atmosphere.
Sonoma
0.2 km
Experience the beauty and flavor of Sonoma, California's premier wine country, with its lush vineyards, historic sites, and vibrant local culture.
Depot Park
0.2 km
Explore Sonoma's past and present at Depot Park: History museum, recreation, and community events near Sonoma Plaza.
Figone's Olive Oil
0.2 km
Experience the taste of Sonoma at Figone's Olive Oil, a family-run producer of premium olive oils and balsamic vinegars since 1989.
Galatea Effect
0.3 km
Discover Sonoma's hidden gem: Galatea Effect, where small-lot wines meet exceptional craftsmanship in the heart of Vine Alley, offering an unforgettable tasting experience.
Depot Park Museum
0.3 km
Explore Sonoma's vibrant history at Depot Park Museum, where engaging exhibits and charming outdoor spaces await every visitor.
Sonoma Food, Wine & History Tours - By Sonoma Food Tour
0.3 km
Discover Sonoma's rich culinary and historical heritage through immersive food and wine tours in California's picturesque wine country.
Sojourn Cellars
0.3 km
Experience the terroir of Sonoma and Napa with Sojourn Cellars' acclaimed Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Tastings by appointment.
Sonoma Valley Museum of Art
0.3 km
Experience modern and contemporary art at the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, a cultural gem in the heart of California's wine country.
Sonoma Community Center
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant arts and culture at Sonoma Community Center, a cultural hub that showcases local creativity in the heart of Sonoma, California.
Williams-Sonoma
0.4 km
Discover the roots of culinary innovation at the original Williams-Sonoma store in Sonoma, a blend of retail, history, and cooking inspiration in the heart of wine country.
Essential places to dine
Cafe La Haye
0.2 km
Experience the best of American and Californian cuisine at Cafe La Haye in Sonoma—where every dish tells a story.
FARM Restaurant + Bar
11.5 km
Experience exquisite Italian-Californian cuisine at FARM Restaurant + Bar in Napa Valley, where fresh ingredients meet exceptional wines.
Boon Fly Café
11.7 km
Discover Boon Fly Café in Napa Valley: A delightful spot for American cuisine and local wines amidst stunning vineyard views.
Il Posto Trattoria
12.6 km
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Il Posto Trattoria in Napa Valley - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Bistro Don Giovanni
12.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Napa Valley at Bistro Don Giovanni – a culinary gem with exquisite flavors and warm hospitality.
Fume
12.8 km
Discover Fume Bistro: A Culinary Gem in Napa Offering Exquisite American Cuisine with Local Flair.
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse
12.9 km
Experience the rich flavors of Brazil at Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse in Napa – where endless grilled meats meet warm hospitality.
Grille 29 Restaurant & Lounge
13.6 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at Grille 29 Restaurant & Lounge in Napa - where flavor meets elegance.
Yak and Yeti Restaurant and Bar
14.1 km
Savor authentic Indian & Nepalese flavors at Yak and Yeti Restaurant & Bar in Napa - a culinary gem for every food lover.
Bottega Napa Valley
14.6 km
Experience fine Italian dining at Bottega Napa Valley, where authentic flavors meet local ingredients in a stunning setting.
Tarla Mediterranean Bar + Grill
14.6 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Tarla Mediterranean Bar + Grill in Napa - where flavor meets hospitality.
Oenotri
14.7 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Oenotri in Napa Valley, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes in a warm atmosphere.
Clemente's Authentic Italian Take Out
14.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Clemente's Authentic Italian Take Out in Napa - where tradition meets taste!
Norman Rose Tavern
14.7 km
Experience the flavors of Napa Valley at Norman Rose Tavern - your go-to American brewpub for delicious food and local craft beers.
Grace's Table
14.7 km
Experience the essence of New American cuisine at Grace's Table in Napa – where every meal is a delightful journey through local flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
GLenna's Rescued Treasures, LLC
13.2 km
Uncover unique treasures and charming home goods at Glenna's Rescued Treasures in Napa, a delightful consignment shop with a personal touch.
Napa Premium Outlets
13.4 km
Experience stylish shopping at Napa Premium Outlets, where luxury meets affordability in the heart of California's wine country.
francesca's
13.6 km
Discover unique women's clothing, accessories, and gifts at Francesca's in Napa - a boutique that embodies style and charm.
Bel Aire Plaza
13.6 km
Explore Bel Aire Plaza: Napa's vibrant shopping mall featuring over 100 stores, delightful dining, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
American Cancer Society Discovery Shop - Napa
13.9 km
Explore unique thrift store treasures at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop in Napa, where every purchase supports cancer research and patient care.
The grape yard shopping center
14.1 km
Explore The Grape Yard Shopping Center in Napa for a unique blend of shopping and dining experiences, all in a vibrant atmosphere.
River Park Shopping Center
14.5 km
Explore the River Park Shopping Center in Napa, California - a vibrant shopping and dining destination perfect for tourists seeking local charm and variety.
Jeffries General
14.7 km
Discover unique gifts and exquisite local wines at Jeffries General, Napa's charming gift shop and wine store.
Antique Shoppe
14.7 km
Explore the Antique Shoppe in Napa for a nostalgic journey through vintage home goods and unique decor, capturing the essence of the past.
C'est La Paire
14.7 km
Discover unique, stylish footwear at C'est La Paire in Napa, California, the perfect stop for fashion-forward tourists exploring wine country.
Mecox Napa
14.7 km
Explore Mecox Napa for unique home goods and decor that capture the essence of California's vibrant lifestyle in a charming shopping experience.
Muguette Renee A French Boutique
14.7 km
Discover the elegance of French fashion at Muguette Renee, Napa's charming boutique offering unique clothing and accessories.
Honey Whiskey Boutique
14.7 km
Explore Honey Whiskey Boutique in Napa, CA – a unique women's clothing store offering curated styles that celebrate local craftsmanship and modern fashion.
Habituate Lifestyle & Interiors
14.7 km
Explore Habituate Lifestyle & Interiors in Napa for unique women's fashion and accessories that embody style and sophistication.
Tay & Grace
14.7 km
Explore Napa’s stylish sanctuary for women’s fashion at Tay & Grace, where unique styles await to enhance your wardrobe.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
B&V Whiskey Bar & Grille
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights of B&V Whiskey Bar & Grille in Sonoma, where grill favorites meet craft beverages in a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
Cornerstone Sonoma
7.4 km
Discover art, wine, and nature at Cornerstone Sonoma – a vibrant destination in California’s renowned wine country.
Hop Creek Pub
11.2 km
Experience the best of Napa Valley's culinary scene at Hop Creek Pub, where American comfort food meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Green Door
13.2 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Green Door, a must-visit bar in Napa, CA, offering unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
The Hollywood Room
13.6 km
Discover the unique cocktail experience at The Hollywood Room in Napa, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await you.
Wine Country Bartending
14.3 km
Experience the essence of Napa Valley with expertly crafted cocktails and a curated selection of local wines at Wine Country Bartending.
Stone's Sports Bar & Lounge
14.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Napa at Stone's Sports Bar & Lounge, offering delicious cocktails and a lively atmosphere for all.
The Garden by Tannery Bend Beerworks
14.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of craft beer and live music at The Garden by Tannery Bend Beerworks in Napa Valley.
Chispa | Food + Drink
14.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and signature cocktails at Chispa, Napa's must-visit cocktail bar and brunch spot.
Mercantile Social
14.6 km
Experience innovative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere at Mercantile Social in Napa, a must-visit cocktail bar for every traveler.
Ox and the Fox
14.7 km
Discover Ox and the Fox, where creative cocktails and whimsical decor create an unforgettable bar experience in the heart of Napa.
Be Bubbly Lounge & Bistro
14.7 km
Discover Be Bubbly Lounge & Bistro, a delightful wine bar in Napa offering exquisite local wines and scrumptious bites in a vibrant setting.
Wine Girl Napa Valley
14.7 km
Discover the essence of Napa Valley at Wine Girl, where exceptional wines and delightful small plates create a memorable experience.
Cadet Wine & Beer Bar
14.7 km
Discover the best of Napa's local wines and craft beers at Cadet Wine & Beer Bar, where a vibrant atmosphere meets exceptional service.
Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar
14.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and exquisite drinks at Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar, the premier destination for a chic experience in Napa Valley.
