Best Things to See and Do in Healdsburg, California

wine tasting, dry creek valley, california
When I have a visitor from out of town, I take them wine tasting in Dry Creek Valley

Are you visiting Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley for the first time? Below is a list of “Insider Tips” for the best things to see and do in Healdsburg, California.

When I have a visitor from out of town, I take them wine tasting in Dry Creek Valley.

Looking for wine country cuisine in  Healdsburg? I recommend Spoonbar.

Check out Healdsburg Plaza Park in downtown square. With plenty of grass, graceful trees, benches and gazebo; it’s a great place to relax and unwind.

When you come to Healdsburg, get your picture taken in a Dry Creek Valley vineyard.

Here’s a tip from a local: the best item on the menu at Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar is the grilled fish tacos.

healdsburg plaza, downtown healdsburg, california
Make sure to visit Healdsburg’s Charming Downtown Plaza

Healdsburg is best known for visiting wineries and the small town chic charm of the downtown Square.

Looking for cheap food in Healdsburg? Head to El Farolito. This Mexican restaurant and bar has plenty of ambiance.

For an expensive meal, head to Dry Creek Kitchen in Healdsburg. Chef Charlie Palmer makes great food and, personally, I think he’s really a nice guy.

chef charlie palmer, dry creek kitchen, healdsburg, california
For authentic wine country cuisine, try Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen. Photo © Nancy D. Brown

In Dry Creek Valley, take your picture with a winemaker. They are the real McCoy!

For an amazing view, walk to the deck of Sbragia Family Vineyard overlooking the length of Dry Creek Valley.

The Dutcher Crossing Winery offers great views and their grass veranda is the best place to watch or experience Passport to Dry Creek Valley.

In Healdsburg/Dry Creek Valley outdoor enthusiasts will want to bike along Westside Road through the scenic vineyards and rural landscape.

dutcher crossing winery, vineyard, geyserville, california
Stop for wine tasting with a beautiful view at Dutcher Crossing Winery

Looking for a little exercise? Walk along the Healdsburg Ridge Open Space Preserve.

If you are a museum lover,  Healdsburg Museum and Historical Society is a good one to check out.

Enjoy a night out on the town? For a night of dancing, sway to the jute box at dive bar John & Zeke’s.  They may not have a website, but you’ll have a great time.

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The Spoonbar at h2hotel is the spot for late night dining.

The Healdsburg Tribune will keep you posted on what’s happening in Healdsburg.

You can tell a lot about Healdsburg from visiting and watching the 4H parade and fair event. It’s one of the events that makes Healdsburg so darn appealing.

In the spring you should attend Gateway to Passport/Passport to Dry Creek Valley.

passport dry creek, wine tasting, healdsburg, california
In the spring you’ll want to attend Passport to Dry Creek Valley.

In the summer you should attend Healdsburg Concerts in the Park.

Did you know that Healdsburg is known for being in Dry Creek Valley? Plan a visit to Healdsburg during harvest in the fall.

Come to Healdsburg for relaxing spa treatments in the winter.

Insider Tip: Check out the often over-looked kayaking or canoeing down the Russian River in summer.

Coffee lovers should make a bee line to The Flying Goat for a great breakfast treat and delicious coffee.

Just outside of Healdsburg you can visit Dry Creek General Store for a beer and sandwich at this historic landmark overlooking the vineyards of Dry Creek Valley.

The best way to see Healdsburg is to walk or bike. I’m told it’s a great place for a motorcycle ride, too. No drinking while driving, of course!

Don’t miss Giorgi Park if you have kids traveling with you.

What are your favorite things to see and do in Healdsburg, California?

Thanks to Healdsburg resident Kate Jones for assistance with this post.

4 thoughts on “Best Things to See and Do in Healdsburg, California”

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