Quirky Outings & Whimsical Landmarks in Santa Rosa

July 15, 2025

Looking for something a little unexpected on your next trip to Wine Country? Santa Rosa is full of offbeat attractions and whimsical wonders that add character and color to your itinerary. From oversized bicycle sculptures to eccentric gravesites, these quirky experiences offer something truly memorable—believe it or not.

Cyclisk – A Towering Sculpture of Bicycles

Blink and you’ll miss it, but you shouldn’t. Located at 1255 Santa Rosa Avenue, Cyclisk is a 65-foot-tall obelisk made entirely of recycled bicycles, 340 in total. This towering public art piece, created by artists Mark Grieve and Ilana Spector in 2010, blends environmental consciousness with whimsical creativity. It’s a must-see for fans of modern art, cyclists, and Instagrammers alike searching for the perfect offbeat photo op in Santa Rosa.

Pictured: Cyclisk | 1255 Santa Rosa Ave
Credit: @forgekeep

The Grave of Robert Ripley – "Believe It or Not!" in Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa is the final resting place of the legendary Robert Ripley, creator of the world-famous Ripley's Believe It or Not! empire. Nestled in the historic Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery, his grave is a quiet yet curious stop for fans of the bizarre and unexplained. A visit here is a nod to the man who made the strange and unbelievable part of pop culture history.

Pictured: Gravesite of Robert Ripley | 1705 Franklin Ave
Credit: Visit Santa Rosa

Marijke’s Grove – Sculpture Garden in the Vines

Where art meets wine, you’ll find Marijke’s Grove, a dreamy outdoor sculpture garden located at Paradise Ridge Winery in Santa Rosa’s Fountaingrove neighborhood. Stroll among large-scale works by local and international artists, all set against sweeping vineyard views. Named after Marijke Byck-Hoenselaars, the winery's co-founder, this grove offers a whimsical blend of nature and creativity that makes for a perfect pairing with your glass of Sonoma County wine.

Pictured: Sculpture garden at Paradise Ridge Winery
Credit: Franziska Marks | @amfmarks

McDonald Mansion – A Grand and Ornate Victorian

Step back in time with a visit to the iconic McDonald Mansion (also known as Mableton), located at 1015 McDonald Avenue. Built in 1879 as a summer home for San Francisco mogul Mark L. McDonald, this ornate Victorian is famed for its lavish detail, and even had a starring role in Disney’s Pollyanna film. The mansion is privately owned, but its elaborate architecture and picturesque street make it a favorite stop for history buffs, architecture lovers, and film fans touring Santa Rosa. You can catch an occasional tour with the City of Santa Rosa.

Pictured: McDonald Mansion | 1015 McDonald Ave
Credit: Sanfranman59 Wikicommons

John Medica Gardens – A Hidden Historical Gem

Designated as California Historical Landmark #939, John Medica Gardens is a tucked-away treasure in a gated neighborhood next to Howarth Park. These hand-built basalt rock gardens are a whimsical mosaic of love and craftsmanship, created over two decades by John Medica, a Croatian immigrant who owned a turkey farm on the property. Though access is limited, even viewing from the nearby park offers a glimpse into this one-of-a-kind legacy of folk art and devotion.

Pictured: John Medica Gardens | 973 Stone Castle Ln
Credit: California Historical Landmarks

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