Petaluma CA is a delightful city of approximately 58,000 residents that is known for a variety of things. Among these things is the Rancho Petaluma Adobe. A National Historic Landmark, this old ranch house was built between the years of 1834 and 1857 and is widely considered to be one of the best-preserved structures of its era in all of Northern California. Other things that help Petaluma CA distinguish itself are its downtown Historic Commercial District and its film history. The Historic Commercial District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and thanks to its numerous historic buildings, it has been used as a filming location for a variety of movies that are set in the 1940's, 50's, and 60's. Other movies that are set in more modern times have also used Petaluma as a backdrop for some of their scenes, only cementing the city’s popularity as a film making hot spot.

Redwoods & Russian River

When Petaluma CA visitors aren’t basking in the blissful environs of the city’s downtown area or visiting the Rancho Petaluma Adobe, they can venture out into the surrounding area and enjoy some natural wonders. Among these wonders are mighty redwood trees, which populate the Northern California coastal area in good number. One of the best places to see redwoods near Petaluma is the Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve. This park lays claim to Sonoma County’s largest old-growth redwood forest and is only a 30-minute drive or so from Petaluma. Also of interest for those who are trying to get in touch with the more natural side of things during their Petaluma escape is the Russian River. The lower part of this river passes to the near north of Petaluma and is a popular swimming and boating destination during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.

Wineries

Petaluma truly enjoys a wonderful location. Approximately 30 miles to the south is San Francisco, and even less distance separates the city from the scenic Northern California coast. For wine enthusiasts, however, the fact that Petaluma calls Sonoma County home and is just a short drive from Sonoma and Napa is likely to be of more interest. The area in general is the heart of California’s Wine Country and is known for producing some of the best wines in the world.

California Map

Hotels & Lodging

Regardless of your reasons for visiting Petaluma CA, chances are good that you will have a good time. As for where to stay, there are Petaluma accommodations to suit a range of budgets and tastes. There are chain-brand hotels and motels, an inviting boutique hotel that goes by the name of the Metro Hotel, and several area cottages that can be rented. Camping, staying in a cabin, or shacking up in a "Wine Country" lodge at the award-winning San Francisco North/Petaluma KOA is also an option. The San Francisco North/Petaluma KOA offers much more than just campsites, cabins, and lodges. The facilities and amenities include, but are not limited to, free Wi-Fi, a dog park, a petting farm, a pool, and a Wine Country store.