The town of Sonoma had its beginnings with the Mission San Francisco Solano, the last of the 21 California missions along the Camino Real, in 1823. The origin of the name is variously attributed to the the native american tribe, Sonomi, and a report from General Mariano Vallejo stating that the name was an indian word meaning "Valley of the Moon." Laid out in the classic Mexican form, centering on a central plaza, El Pueblo de Sonoma, the town wears its history proudly. From the statue commemorating the Bear Flag Revolt of 1846 to the Presidio of Sonoma, the Sebastiani Theatre, and the early 20th century city hall, a National Historic Landmark, in the center of the plaza.
The plaza is a center of community life with weekly farmer's markets, art and live music events, picnicking and parties held under the shade of mature Sycamore and oak trees. It is surrounded by highly regarded restaurants, both casual and high-end, art galleries, clothing stores and historical points of interest.
The mostly level nature of Sonoma makes it an ideal biking and walking experience. There are several well-maintained bike paths, some following creek routes and others cutting across neighborhoods and skirting vineyards and wineries. Living up to the moniker, "The Real Wine Country", many world class wineries are located either in town, within a short drive, or have tasting rooms around the plaza. A thriving olive oil culture is developing in the area as well.
Golf entusiasts are pleased to visit the 18-hole course with its lakes, massive oaks and mountain and vineyard views at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. A private club, the course is also open to guests of the Fairmont Mission Inn and Spa. There are more than 30 municipal and public courses in under 20 miles from Sonoma city center. Bocci ball and petanque clubs regularly compete and socialize at the Depot Park with its historic train car museum, ball fields.
Recently awarded Sonoma a spot in its Top Ten Most Friendly City list bu Condé Nast Traveler, the only one in California on the list, newcomers and tourists alike find, in Sonoma, a home they didn't know they were looking for.


Travelers searching for a “down-to-earth alternative to Napa” should look no further than Sonoma, California, praised for its “laid-back style and people” and “amazing wines.” A “fabulous destination for foodies,” visitors find Sonoma to be “charming and picturesque” with a “quaint, yet up to date” vibe.  But above all, it’s known to be “a wonderful place to unwind and just enjoy the day.”
—Conde Nast Traveler reader's survey


The same weather that makes the Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma Valley and Carneros appellations great vineyard country, also makes ideal living conditions. Warm daytime temperatures and cool evenings. It has given rise to the popularity of the indoor-outdoor lifestyle and architecture. Backyard barbeque and the clink of wine class toasting on a sunny deck are as much a part of the ecology as the creeks and oak covered rolling hills.