The Perfect Wine Country Girls’ Weekend in Santa Rosa, CA
Planning a girls’ getaway that blends vineyard views, incredible food, boutique shopping, and just the right amount of relaxation? Santa Rosa, California is the perfect home base for a Wine Country weekend that feels indulgent — without the Napa crowds. Located in the heart of Sonoma County, Santa Rosa offers easy access to world-class wineries, vibrant downtown energy, and outdoor beauty that turns any weekend into a memorable escape.
Here’s how to plan the ultimate Wine Country girls’ trip.
Friday: Check In & Head Downtown
Start your weekend by settling into one of Santa Rosa’s stylish accommodations. From modern luxury at Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country and retro-chic charm at The Astro Motel, to boutique stays in historic hotels at Hotel E and room to spread out at apartment-style stays with Art House Hotel & Suites, there’s a vibe for every friend group.
Once you’re refreshed, make your way to the city center to browse boutique shops, check out a museum, or ease into the weekend with craft cocktails and mocktails. The Mockingbird Bar & Chill sets the tone with a relaxed, stylish vibe, while La Rosa Tequileria & Grille invites a little adventure with an impressive lineup of tequila and mezcal that’s sure to spark conversation.
When it’s time to dine, Belly Left Coast Kitchen & Taproom showcases some of the farm-to-table flavors wine country is known for, and Ausiello's 5th Street Bar and Grill is a dependable favorite for a hearty bite in a quirky, sports bar setting.
From there, wander into the Historic Railroad Square District, where charming preserved architecture sets the stage for a memorable girls’ night — and a perfect spot for group photos. Keep an eye out for the handful of Peanuts on Parade statues scattered throughout the district, where a beloved Peanuts character can join your crew for some playful snapshots. After an obligatory photoshoot, rehydrate and sip your way through Railroad Square at 4th Street Cellars or Stonemason Cellars for an intimate, unhurried tasting experience.
Keep the evening going with a little friendly competition at Dave & Buster's, plenty of laughs at a Barrel Proof Lounge comedy show, or a dose of burlesque and vaudeville at The California Theatre during a Forbidden Kiss performance. However the night unfolds, Railroad Square and downtown Santa Rosa have a way of keeping the energy high long after you thought you’d call it a night.
Saturday: Sip, Spa & Celebrate
No Wine Country girls' weekend is complete without vineyard time. Santa Rosa is surrounded by celebrated wine regions — including the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Valley — making it easy to fill your itinerary with world-class tastings. Paradise Ridge Winery wows with sweeping hilltop views and sculpture gardens, St. Francis Winery is beloved for its food and wine pairings, and Balletto Vineyards is a fan favorite for its approachable Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Martin Ray Vineyards offers mountain-grown wines with panoramic views to match, while Ledson Winery & Vineyards' castle-like estate makes every visit feel like a special occasion. If your group prefers to keep things spontaneous, check out our guide to walk-in friendly wineries so you can sip without the stress of advance planning.
Need a wine palate cleanser? Mix in a brewery stop along the way to explore Santa Rosa's thriving craft beer scene. Download the free Santa Rosa Beer Passport, a digital guide that helps you discover local breweries while collecting points to earn a collectible beer medal, turning an afternoon of hopping around town into a reward earning adventure.
When it's time to recharge, treat yourselves to spa time at the Flamingo Resort & Spa, Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary, or Vinarosa Resort & Spa, each offering its own take on wine country relaxation. For fresh air between tastings and massages, take a leisurely walk through Howarth Park or Spring Lake Regional Park, or lace up for a scenic hike through the oak and pine forests of Trione-Annadel State Park — every trail turn is a group photo opportunity.
Sunday: Brunch & Browse
Ease into your final morning with a leisurely brunch before hitting the road. Americana serves up classic comfort dishes with a local twist, while Mac's Deli & Cafe is a Santa Rosa staple worth the stop for a satisfying send-off meal. Pair it with a cup of locally roasted coffee and let the conversation linger.
From there, explore Santa Rosa's vibrant creative side. Stretch your legs along the Santa Rosa Public Art Walk, a self-guided tour through colorful murals, sculptures, and installations woven throughout the city's streets and neighborhoods. If your group wants to dig a little deeper, the Museum of Sonoma County is well worth an hour or two, offering modern and contemporary art alongside rotating exhibits that illuminate the region's rich local history and culture.
If your timing is right, make your way to Courthouse Square on a Sunday morning between May and September, where the weekly Santa Rosa Downtown Market draws local vendors selling fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisan food that perfectly capture the spirit of Sonoma County. It's also the ideal spot to find a meaningful, handmade souvenir that didn't come from the typical gift shop shelf.
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