ABOUT SONOMA

Located in the heart of Northern California’s wine country, Sonoma is a small town with a lot to offer. It blends laid-back charm with rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a strong focus on local culture. While many race fans come to the area just for the action at Sonoma Raceway, the town itself is well worth exploring if you have time before or after the event.

Sonoma is especially famous for its wineries. The surrounding Sonoma Valley is home to dozens of vineyards and tasting rooms, ranging from large, well-known producers to small, family-run estates. Many are just a short drive from the track, offering the chance to unwind with a glass of wine in a peaceful setting. If you're not into wine, there are also breweries, cider houses, and casual spots serving locally inspired food and drink.

At the center of town is the historic Sonoma Plaza, the largest town square in California. Here, you'll find everything from boutique shops and galleries to restaurants, bakeries, and cafés. The area is walkable and filled with character — think preserved mission-style buildings, shady parks, and relaxed outdoor patios. The Plaza is also home to Mission San Francisco Solano, the northernmost of California’s 21 historic missions, which is open to visitors.

Sonoma’s natural surroundings are another major highlight. If you enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails nearby. The Sonoma Overlook Trail offers a relatively short walk with scenic views of the valley, while nearby parks like Sugarloaf Ridge State Park or Jack London State Historic Park offer longer trails through forests, hills, and vineyards.