Windsor Town Green; photo by Barbara Bourne

Sonoma Wine Country may be famous for wine tasting, farm-to-table food, spas, and bucolic scenery, but there is another big draw. Charming Sonoma County towns like Windsor welcome visitors with quaint shops, eateries, and tasting rooms you can stroll against the beautiful backdrop of Northern California’s refreshing landscape.

A latte with a heart in the foam and a slice of cake
Cafe Noto, Windsor, California

Windsor is a community of families and farmers, and at the center of this friendly town, you’ll find a welcoming Town Green that is ideal for a day of strolling and discovery. In the summer, the Town Green hosts concerts, movies, and a farmers market. On non-activity days, the large expanse of lawn sees kids playing beside the fountain or in the playground.

A farmer holding bouquets of flowers in front of a booth at the market
Windsor Certified Farmers Market; photo by Barbara Bourne

Browse shops like Roost General Store with its aesthetic assortment of home, bath, and wearable finds that celebrate California West Coast living.

Stop to admire the custom jewelry at Mark Shimizu Design. Speak to the friendly experts at Windsor Bike and Sport, who have rent top-notch equipment and have bike route suggestions for every level.

Take in all the beauty at Atrellis Flower and Gift Shop, where you’ll find unique gifts amidst striking, one-of-a-kind floral displays. Refuel with a visit to Café Noto, a vibrant locally-owned coffee shop with tasty delights and a pleasant patio. Grab a cuppa (or a fruit smoothie!) at Fruity Moto.

Colorful storefronts on the shops at the green
Windsor Town Green in Windsor, California; photo by Wildly Simple

It wouldn’t be a trip to Sonoma Wine Country without sipping renowned Sonoma County wines. Step into these inviting tasting rooms nestled around the Town Green to discover your new favorite bottle.

Visit wineries in Windsor just outside of town in the rolling countryside and vineyard estates, such as Bricoleur Vineyards, Notre Vue Estate Winery & VineyardsLa Crema Estate at Saralee’s Vineyard, and Martinelli Winery & Vineyards.

You can also head to a beer garden or taproom in Windsor for excellent local brews and spirits that showcase Sonoma County agriculture and craftsmanship. Check out these:

Glasses of wine set up for tasting
Bellacana Vineyards in Windsor, California

Nestled around the Windsor Town Green, you’ll find lots of diverse dining]. Here are a few favorites:

  • Tomi Thai Restaurant serves an array of craveable Thai dishes and has a great wine list.
  • Himalayan Restaurant offers a fresh, gourmet taste of Nepal & Northern India with succulent kabobs, tandoories, fragrant curries, and plenty of vegan and gluten free options.
  • Tian Yuen, Windsor is a favorite for modern asian cuisine including fresh and tasty house-made dim sum.
  • Lupe’s Mexican Diner & Agave Room dishes up delicious cuisine with the flavors of Jalisco Mexico and boasts an Agave Room with craft cocktails, tequila, mezcal, and draft Mexican and local beers.
  • The Publican is the place for excellent pub grub, a full bar with specialty drinks, a back patio, and a friendly atmosphere.
  • KC’s American Kitchen has an expansive menu of classic fare served in a spacious indoor dining room or outside with a plesant view of Windsor’s Town Green.
  • Grata Italian Eatery features Sonoma County inspired Italian cuisine made from the freshest local ingredients in a lively, intimate atmosphere.
  • For dessert, try the gelateria inside Cravin’s Candy Emporium or the delicious baked goods at Burtonz Bakery.

Within walking distance of the Town Green are three hotels — Hampton Inn & SuitesHoliday Inn Express, and the full-service Holiday Inn Windsor Wine Country.

Within a short bicycle ride, you’ll find the timeshare resort Worldmark by Wyndham.

Speaking of bikes, take a memorable bike tour with Ace It Bike Tours offering bike rentals and wine tasting tours by bike throughout Windsor.

For more fun things to do during your trip, discover Sonoma County’s many outdoor activities to enjoy in the vineyards, coast, and Russian River areas. The local Sonoma County Airport makes getting to this scenic spot a breeze.

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