Stimulate Your Senses in Santa Rosa, California
Santa Rosa is a place to slow down, tune in, and truly experience your surroundings. From music and nature to food, art, and hands-on discovery, these sensory-focused itinerary ideas invite you to listen, smell, taste, touch and see your way through town.
Listen
A performance by the Santa Rosa Symphony
Let the music move you. From sweeping classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions, a Santa Rosa Symphony performance fills the room with rich sound and emotional resonance, creating an immersive experience for both longtime music lovers and first-time symphony-goers.
Nature’s soundtrack at Howarth Park
Pause and listen as birds call overhead, the wind moves through the trees, and kids laugh near Lake Ralphine. Howarth Park offers a layered, lively soundscape that feels both energizing and grounding, making it perfect for a mindful moment outdoors.
Smell
Flowers in bloom at Luther Burbank Home & Gardens
Breathe in the fragrance of blooming flowers and heritage plants at this historic garden oasis. Seasonal blossoms and lush greenery create a naturally calming experience that connects you to Santa Rosa’s horticultural roots.
Earthy forest scents on the trails at Trione-Annadel State Park
Inhale the fresh, grounding aromas of oak woodlands, bay laurel, lively ponds, and sun-warmed earth as you explore Annadel’s scenic trails. Just minutes from downtown, it’s an easy way to reconnect with nature through scent alone.
Taste
Farm-to-table flavors at Americana
Savor the taste of Sonoma County at Americana, where locally sourced ingredients shine. Thoughtfully crafted dishes celebrate the region’s agricultural bounty and pair perfectly with local wines and cocktails.
A local brew with the Santa Rosa Beer Passport
Sample Santa Rosa’s vibrant craft beer scene one sip at a time. The Santa Rosa Beer Passport invites you to explore local breweries, discover new favorites, and taste the creativity behind every pour.
Touch
Tide pool discovery at Spring Lake Regional Park
Get hands-on with nature at the Environmental Discovery Center, where tide pool creatures invite curiosity and gentle exploration. It’s a tactile experience that’s educational, fun, and perfect for all ages.
Relax and recharge at Oasis Day Spa & Sanctuary
Treat your body to a rejuvenating massage designed to melt away tension. From calming touch to tranquil surroundings, Oasis offers a deeply restorative sensory escape.
See
Peanuts on Parade statues
Spot Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and friends throughout town with the Peanuts on Parade statue map. These playful, photo-worthy sculptures celebrate Santa Rosa’s connection to Charles M. Schulz and add a whimsical visual experience to your visit.
Santa Rosa Public Art Walk
Discover art installations in the core of town with the Santa Rosa Public Art Walk which adds color, creativity, and character to the cityscape. Stroll at your own pace and see how art brings downtown spaces to life with interactive and contemplative pieces.
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