5 Reasons Experts Say Sonoma County is the Place to Visit in 2025 

Robert Young Winery in Geyserville

This is Wine Country. And travel writers can’t get enough!

Whether it’s your first visit or your favorite getaway, Sonoma County welcomes all with unforgettable adventures and meaningful connections. From hiking among redwoods to savoring local wines, every moment in Sonoma County invites you to explore, connect, and celebrate life. Travel writers are discovering this special spot and the flexibility it offers, allowing travelers to create a journey as unique they are.  

This is one of the reasons Travelzoo chose Sonoma County as one of just nine worldwide destinations as a “Best Bet” for travel in 2025. See the full guide here

While Sonoma County has garnered a lot of press lately, below are 5 top reasons why we are recommended as a travel destination for 2025.  

1. The Views

rolling vineyards scenery of alexander valley ava
Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley

Named among “The Best Places to Go in North America & the Caribbean in 2025” by Condé Nast Traveler, Alexander Valley is one of 19 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in Sonoma County, each with its own microclimate, specialty wine, and vibe. 

Tucked into the northern end of Sonoma County, Alexander Valley has long been home to some of Wine Country’s finest Bordeaux varietals, but don’t overlook its incredible food scene. Encompassing the towns of Healdsburg and Geyserville, visitors flock to culinary hotspots like the Michelin-starred Cyrus, local favorite Diavola, and Wild West-style Geyserville Gun Club.  

To top it all off, the views here are incredible! Depending on when you visit, Alexander Valley is a treat for the eyes as well.  

Read the full story here.  

2. A Dedication to Sustainability

In November 2024, La Crema was named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast Magazine at the 25th Annual Wine Star Awards. While this award celebrates the winery’s exceptional wine, it’s also a celebration of its commitment to sustainability, its support for diversity and inclusion, and its role as a proud, women-led winery.

La Crema Estate Vineyards in Windsor
La Crema, Windsor

From regenerative farming and solar-powered vineyards to partnerships like the WNBA and vibrant community events, La Crema is showing the world what Sonoma County is all about: Innovation, stewardship, and heart.  

Read the full story here

3. The Culture

owners of Marimar Estate Vineyards & Winery standing outside the tasting room with metal dog sculptures
Marimar Estate Vineyards & Winery, Sebastopol.

There’s so much more to Sonoma County than wine. From the rugged coastline and tranquil redwood forests to lively farmers’ markets and vibrant art galleries, every experience reflects the diversity and creativity of the people who call Sonoma County home.  

The Long Island Press discovered this about Sonoma County, writing, “Wine tastings are the perfect metaphor for Sonoma County, where art and nature intertwine just about everywhere you go in the most marvelously energizing, invigorating, vitalizing and inspiring ways.” The publication highlighted the charming towns of Sebastopol and Sonoma for their galleries, street art and events, as well as destinations like Glen Ellen, home to Jack London State Historic Park.  

Read the full write-up here

4. All Are Welcome

Gay Pride Parade in Guerneville, California 
Gay Pride Parade in Guerneville, California 

Travel Pulse included Sonoma County in its list of top 25 LGBTQ+ destinations to visit in 2025, highlighting its welcoming nature and purpose-driven offerings.  

The publication called out spots like Equality Vines, the world’s first cause-wine portfolio dedicated to equality for all people, and events like Women Weekends, Gay Wine Weekend, Lazy Bear Week, and the Russian River Pride Parade and Festival.  

For more on Sonoma County’s LGBTQ+ experiences, click here

5. The Endless Activities

Calling it a perfect spot for a girls getaway and a bachelorette celebration, US News couldn’t help but share the amount of activities available to visitors in Sonoma County.  

By blending the traditional with the unconventional, visitors can enjoy time-honored winemaking traditions alongside fresh, unexpected experiences, from ziplining to horseback riding.  

person zip lining in the redwoods
Sonoma Zipline Adventures in Occidental California

“Sonoma is a bit more down to earth than its competitive neighbor, Napa Valley,” the article reads. “Go wine tasting via private shuttle, open-air trolley, e-bike or motorcycle sidecar. Other activities include hot air balloon rides, hiking at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, tubing down the Russian River, getting pampered at a spa, shopping in the upscale boutiques in the charming Sonoma and Healdsburg plazas, or visiting the ‘Sonoma Serengeti’ with Safari West.”  

Whether you’re savoring world-class wines or embarking on unique adventures, Sonoma County offers a reimagined destination that celebrates authenticity and creativity. 

Slowcations, Solo Travel, Luxury Travel and More

group of people e-biking in sonoma county
Getaway Adventures bike ride through Geyserville 

Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or a combination of both, Sonoma County is a travel trend for 2025, reports the North Bay Business Journal.   

For more inspiration, see our guide on Solo Travel, Slowcations, Soulful Travel and Luxury Travel

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