8 Fun Things To Do in Glen Ellen

Glen Ellen, California, is a secret hideaway in Sonoma Wine Country where you can explore historical sights, botanical gardens, natural hot springs, and picturesque trails in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Here are a few favorite things to do in Glen Ellen.

1. Sample the Fruits of Sonoma County Wineries

The small hamlet of Glen Ellen boasts many wineries and tasting rooms.

Benziger Family Winery lets you buckle up for a driving tour through hills of sustainably farmed grapes to see wildflowers, rows of greenery, and even fluffy white sheep. This impressive vineyard estate has been dedicated to organic and biodynamic wine production for generations.

Loxton Cellars is an intimate, welcoming stead surrounded by the vineyard and tall trees. Take a seat inside their tasting room or opt for a sun-spotted table, perfect for viewing the Mayacamas Mountains, and sip on vegan delights like a smooth Zinfandel or a sweet Port.

Learn more about top Glen Ellen wineries.

2. Picnic in Sonoma Valley Regional Park

For a relaxing afternoon picnic, grab sandwiches, fresh salads, and a local bottle of wine, cider, or craft brew at Glen Ellen Village Market. Visit the grand red farmhouse at Oak Hill Farm for organic strawberries, ripe peaches, and even beautiful treasures like wreaths and preserves to bring home.

Take your picnic to Sonoma Valley Regional Park to savor your spread amidst natural beauty. Stretch your legs on one of the accessible trails or take photos of the towering trees that dapple the paths in shade.

3. Dine at a Bib Gourmand Restaurant

For a modern twist on classic Italian, grab a seat on Glen Ellen Star’s glowing patio or bring the party inside. Discover tasty dishes like bacon-jam roasted Brussels sprouts or tomato cream pie with wood-fired golden-brown crust, tomato sauce, melty cheese, and smoky pepper flakes.

Find all of the excellent restaurants in Glen Ellen.

4. Tour the Sonoma Botanical Garden

Enjoy an inspiring nature walk with an expert tour guide, or stroll on your own at the beautiful Sonoma Botanical Garden. This peaceful space teems with plants from California and temperate Asian countries, like the butterfly-wing-shaped bloom known as the sticky monkey-flower, and the endangered Makino rhododendron, a leafy specimen with ruffled blossoms of papery pink. Stroll the gravel paths to see stunning valley views and hear the tranquil waterfalls.

5. Relax at a California Hot Spring

Nestled into the forested hills is Morton’s Warm Springs Resort, an oasis seemingly separated from the rest of the world. For centuries, the Native Americans who originally stewarded the lands — including the Wappo, Southern Pomo, Coast Miwok, and Patwin people — recognized the restorative powers of these natural springs. Today, you can experience these thermal waters in one of Morton’s three steaming mineral pools or on a chaise lounge amid palm trees.

6. Adventure Around Jack London State Historic Park

Famed writer Jack London (“The Call of the Wild”) made Glen Ellen his home for the last 11 years of his life, and today the town is chock-full of fascinating relics. At the historic park, explore Jack London’s homestead, the remnants of his stone mansion, and catch a piano recital at The House of Happy Walls museum, built to commemorate the writer’s adventurous life.

Lace up your boots to hike through Jack London’s stomping grounds, including the renowned 400-mile Bay Area Ridge Trail for expansive views.

You might coordinate your visit to enjoy an outdoor performance here, like Transcendence Theatre’s Broadway Under the Stars. There is nothing like a lively show under summer constellations, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Jack London Park, with food and drinks to enjoy pre-show.

Afterwards, explore the quaint region called ‘Valley of the Moon,’ and pop into the brick-walled Saloon at the Jack London Lodge for a craft beer before tucking into one of the lodge’s cozy beds.

Planning your trip? Find more places to stay in Glen Ellen.

7. Ride Horseback Through California Wine Country

Ditch the car and experience Glen Ellen the old-fashioned way. Triple Creek Horse Outfit offers year-round guided horseback rides through Jack London State Historic Park with views of historical ruins, forest valleys, and the iconic vineyards of Sonoma Wine Country. Saddle up and slow down as you get acquainted with Glen Ellen’s beautiful, wide-open spaces.

8. Book a Massage

Elevate your Glen Ellen getaway with a stay at Gaige House and enjoy the benefits of the property’s onsite spa. Melt stress, tension, and knots with professional massage or luxuriate with a private soak in an in-suite tub. No matter what service you choose, you and your body will thank you with more energy and a renewed spirit.

Discover more in Glen Ellen, California.

Explore fun things to do in the nearby town of Sonoma, California.

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Written by Sonoma Insider Suzie Rodriguez