Top Picnic Spots in Sonoma Valley

Living and working in the bucolic and historic Sonoma Valley for over 20 years, one becomes savvy with the fine art of picnicking. Al fresco dining is a way of life here, and I hope these special picnic places inspire you to visit — or to throw a blanket onto the grass and share good food and wine with your favorite people. Here are some of my top picnic spots in Sonoma Valley.

Top 6 Picnic Spots in Sonoma Valley

Bartholomew Park, photo courtesy of a kind stranger walking by

Bartholomew Park

Birthplace of California’s premium wine industry, Bartholomew Park is the locals’ best kept secret. The park was founded by Hungarian immigrant Count Agoston Haraszthy — whose life is a rich story of ambition and challenges, with a mysterious ending — which lends to its magic. There are hiking trails, a hidden lake, and secluded picnic tables. Be sure to visit the Bartholomew Estate Winery which was named one of the “15 most beautiful wineries in Napa and Sonoma” by the San Francisco Chronicle; grab a bottle, and hear more about the estate’s legendary tales including the “Cat Lady’s Castle,”  home for “wild women.”

 Sonoma Plaza Tuesday Night Farmers Market

The Sonoma Plaza

This is the heart of Sonoma. We raise our children on “The Square” beside the duck pond, and on the playground during Farmers Markets. The 8 acre park is surrounded by shops, restaurants, galleries, the iconic Sebastiani Theater, and many Sonoma Valley winery tasting rooms. Pick up a bottle to enjoy with your picnic!

Once home of the Native American Miwoks; then to be under rule of Mexican Statesman and Californio General Mariano Guadulpe Vallejo. The Sonoma Plaza is also where the Bear Flag Revolt (an auspicious rebellion of American settlers which ended with California’s independence) took place. The San Francisco Solano, 21st and final Spanish Mission, is located on the North East corner.

Note the corn dog on top of the olives. It’s a Tuesday night Farmers Market local indulgence.

Photo Credit: Shawnda Hansen

Sonoma Valley Regional Park 

Pure flora and fauna enchantment. 1.2 miles of paved pathway which traverses scenic Highway 12 and Arnold Drive. If you’re feeling adventurous, meander the trails off the paved path up onto the ridge and hillside. You’ll meet lots of happy dogs (and an occasional horse). And there is a dog park at the Highway 12 entrance where you’ll also have a splendid view of the Mayacamas Mountain Range, and find picnic tables and barbecue areas. California wildflowers and seasonal blackberries are a bonus. This is where I saw my first blue-tailed skink! Pro-tip: free parking along the Arnold Drive entrance. There are many wonderful Sonoma Valley wine tasting rooms and wineries nearby, and the Glen Ellen Village Market located near the Arnold Drive entrance is a great place to pick up delicious, fresh food for your picnic in the park.

Photo Credit: Meg Cooper Photography megcooperphoto.com

Jack London State Park

Who personifies adventure and romance more than American novelist and journalist Jack London?! “The proper function of man is to live, not to exist.” This historic park is a testament to his well-lived (albeit short) life. I remember my first time hiking this park and hearing a vineyard worker happily singing which echoed against the Sonoma Mountain range. More than just a great picnic spot, plan to spend at least half a day exploring and seeing Sonoma Valley through the eyes of a true pioneer.

Photo Credit: Laine Glende

Sonoma Overlook Trail

Situated just north of the Sonoma Plaza, the hike begins at the entrance to Mountain Cemetery and is a 400 ft elevation gain over its 2.4 mile loop. It’s only a little strenuous but worth the views which span all the way to San Francisco (on a clear day). You may encounter foxes, a variety of birds including wild turkeys, and a plethora of wildflowers. Sometimes a picnic for one, as pictured above, is the very best kind.  And if you happen upon a journal on a bench, please be sure to leave a note. We locals love to read them!

Photo Credit: John Roney, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Stern and Bald Mountain ½ mile walk.

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

Splendor abounds. If you live here, you’ve likely attended live music events, field trips with your kids, or been to the Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. But the Sugarloaf events don’t stop there. From mushrooms to wildflowers, there’s something for everyone here atop the Mayacamas: canyons, meadows, rock formations and a waterfall. Views on a clear day include the Sierras and San Francisco. The Wappo Native Americans were the first known inhabitants of the area and were known for their farming and basketry. I’m pretty sure that this is the origin of the picnic basket, even though the internet will fight me on it.

Shawnda Hansen
Platypus Tours Marketing Teammate
Platypus Tours, Guide Alumni
Creator of The Wine Check