Are you visiting Sonoma county and want to spend a day doing something that doesn’t involve wine? If that sounds like what you’re interested in, I have compiled a full day itinerary just for you! You need to venture out to a hidden gem of the county: the shopping square surrounding Sonoma City Hall.
Not only is the square beautiful, but the drive there is a breath of fresh air (literally). It is open countryside with green grass and rolling hills as far as the eye can see. You will be able to spot livestock such as cows, sheep, and goats. Once you arrive, first things first. The best coffee shop in town is Basque Boulangerie Cafe. It is a charming little place with delicious coffee and sweet treats. The Little Princess Cake deserves a crown because it is amazing. I ordered a 16 oz white mocha that did not disappoint. Once you have your life blood running through your veins, head back out and start exploring.
I found it was easiest to just choose a direction and start. It is literally a square, so follow the sidewalk and you will eventually end up where you started. I recommend stopping in every shop that catches your attention. I have compiled a few favorites that should be top of the list.
My number one recommendation is Global Heart. This inspiring store is owned by Sofie Wastell. She is a very sweet women who was happy to share the history of the shop with me. Doors opened 13 years ago in association with a non profit, fair trade organization by the name of Ten Thousand Villages. They buy from over 20,000 artisans in 30 countries (how amazing is that!!). When you buy here, it makes a world of a difference. Each unique item you look at will transport you to another place. There is a beautiful selection of jewelry, childrens toys/clothes, and so much more. While shopping, not only are you helping others, but you get to feel like you’re traveling the world from the comfort of home.
Right next door to Global Heart is the Sunflower Cafe. If you are looking for that instagram friendly brunch vibe, you have come to the right place. They have yellow and white everything plus a cute patio (with plenty of picture opportunities). My order includes their famous waffles and a blackberry mimosa. Yum, yum.
*They have vegan and vegetarian options.
Now that you have a happy tummy, it’s time to shop. Though there are countless adorable
places in the square, two in particular stand out. Wildflower is mostly clothing and jewelry that will make your inner boho hippie self jump with joy. Extra large dream catchers and crochet hangings are all over the walls. There is decor that makes you want to redecorate your entire house with the wooden signs and twinkle lights. Even if you don’t buy anything, it is extremely aesthetically pleasing. Another one to tick off the list is LOVE-Sonoma. This is a little smaller space, but it still holds its weight. This spot is packed with breathtaking shabby chic home decor, apparel and jewelry.
Let’s be honest, by this time we have probably worked up a little bit of an appetite and need a snack. Head over to The Cheese Factory where you can actually taste cheese samples for free! (Pesto, chipotle, Mediterranean, and other unique flavors as well). What budget traveller doesn’t love that? It doesn’t stop there though, because these people
are the (pepper) jack of all trades! Inside is also a deli, gelato counter, and mini bar. You can drink wine or beer while walking around looking at their amazing gift section.
Once you have refueled on some cheese (and maybe some beer), head over to the neighboring San Francisco Solano Mission. This always lights up the history major inside of me. If you don’t want to pay to see inside the actual mission, they have a couple other attractions for you instead. There is a recreation of the bunks soldiers lived in, a real life old cannon (& no it's not a camera), and a museum. They also have a gift shop with really cute trinkets to take home.
Though your day has almost drawn to an end, there is still a couple things left for you to do.
You cannot miss Tiddle E. Winks. This gem ties with Global Heart at number one must see. Not only is there old fashion candy and board games, but they have a store pup named Scooter! The cute little fuzzy guy loves his snuggles and new friends. After you give him some loving' make sure to check out the hand embroidered towel/pillow line they carry. It is perfect for the out of town visitor or the locals alike. The collection has different destinations such as Sonoma, New York, and many places in between. The detail work is incredible and locally done by a company in Petaluma! Shopping local when traveling is a wonderful way of getting to know the people and town better along the way! If you get the chance, make sure you talk to the owner. She is kind and wonderful. I was lucky enough to her story of why she ended up opening her store. It is a fun and inspiring story, so make sure that you ask while you're there!
So now you're exhausted, but you still have one more stop! Last but definitely not least, pig out at The Chocolate Cow. It is a gelato, candy, and chocolate/fudge shop. Tucked off the main square, but it is not to be missed. You can choose from an assortment of gelato flavors (I always go for Huckleberry). Not only does it smell and taste so delicious, but there is cow decorations all over! Also, whoever wrote a note on the jar that says "tipping isn't just for cows," we should be friends. In this shop, friendly service collides with mouthwatering flavors. This makes it an 'utterly' a-moo-zing experience. Okay sorry, that was cheesy (promise, I'm actually done with the puns now).
Now that you have some more ideas about how to spend a day in Sonoma (without wine tasting) start planning your trip! I did not even begin to cover everything this wonderful city or county has to offer. In the square alone, there is other wonderful art galleries, restraints, and shopping. The park in the center has Town Hall, a pond and playground for the little kiddos. There is a little for everyone here in Sonoma. Come to my corner of the globe and don't forget to send a postcard.
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