Sonoma Lifestyle: A Day Trip to Kenwood
Located a short drive from the Gary Farrell Winery, just south of beautiful Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Kenwood’s rambling estate wineries and gorgeous natural views make it a great destination! Below, find a complete itinerary that highlights the best of Kenwood, including wine tasting, fine dining, and some sightseeing you won’t find anywhere else.
History
Photo Op at the Kenwood Depot
314 Warm Springs Rd
Kenwood, CA 95452
(707) 408-1127
The Kenwood Depot served travelers for almost 50 years, but has the distinction of being the only remaining depot from a once-bustling local line. The quaint stone structure, which recently celebrated 125 years, makes a perfect backdrop for vacation photos. It also serves as headquarters for the Kenwood Community Club, and is available for specials events!
Lunch
Palooza Gastropub
8910 Sonoma Hwy
Kenwood, CA 95452
(707) 833-4000
For a midday break, the Palooza Brewery and Gastropub has a diverse menu focused on American classics like burgers and hot dogs, barbeque, and bar-food snacks. You can also try wood fired pizzas, like the house specialty “Kenwood Bagel,” with toppings like house-smoked salmon, capers, and red onion. The business started as a hot dog cart, and quickly grew, but is still owned by local couple Suzette and Jeff Tyler. Jeff attended culinary school, but has a simple enough philosophy in the kitchen: “Buy good ingredients and don’t screw it up!”
Wine Tasting
Kenwood is home to gorgeous winery estates with picturesque views and special offerings. Since it’s tough to see them all in one day (or even one weekend) below you’ll find a couple of our favorites!
Chateau St. Jean
8555 Sonoma Hwy
Kenwood, CA 95452
(707) 257-5784
https://www.chateaustjean.com/visit-today
Chateau St. Jean has a tasting experience for every palette and interest, including an “escape room” within the winery’s estate! For most folks, a flight of wines will do just fine. Once you’ve found a favorite from their impressive portfolio of Sonoma County vintages, grab a glass and relax beside the bocce courts.
Paradise Ridge
8860 Sonoma Hwy
Kenwood, CA 95452
(707) 282-9020
Paradise Ridge is the perfect spot to wind down. The winery’s Kenwood estate includes a tasting room decorated with local art, and a sensory garden designed to educate guests about wine tasting as well as wine pairing. Choose an elevated tasting experience to try herb-infused chocolates with the Paradise Ridge wines, like the Russian River Merlot or the Blanc de Blanc sparkling.
A Unique Place to Shop
Swedes Feeds
9140 Sonoma Hwy
Kenwood, CA 95452
(707) 833-5050
Swedes Feeds in Kenwood is not your typical garden supply store. Here, you’ll find plenty to add to your flower beds or bird feeder, as well as metal art and gifts, pet supplies, and other unusual crafts. Say hello to the livestock, and make sure to pat the T-rex!
Dinner
Salt & Stone
9900 Sonoma Hwy
Kenwood, CA 95452
(707) 833-6326
Known as “Kenwood’s gathering place,” Salt and Stone’s menu reads like a best hits list of Sonoma county staples: fresh oysters and a variety of seafood items, a wide array of grilled entrees, and locally sourced sides like the roasted mushrooms. While the food is enough reason to make a reservation, the ambiance is also stunning. Outdoor seating surrounds a tranquil pool, while the dining room is both stately and relaxed. Don’t miss the wine list and bar offerings for a memorable evening meal.
A place to stay a little longer
The Kenwood Inn & Spa
10400 Sonoma Hwy
Kenwood, CA 95452
(707) 833-1293
If you decide to spend a little more time in Kenwood, this lavish retreat offers more than just a place to lay your head. The Mediterranean design and landscaping include a tiled pool, luxuriously appointed suites, and an on-site wine bar. Opt for an in-room massage to finish off your weekend escape!
Come and experience Sonoma County and all it has to offer with us at Gary Farrell Vineyard and Winery. Find out more about our wines here and book your tasting experience with us in our Tasting Salon.