Healdsburg, California

When it comes to describing Healdsburg, California, the encapsulating word that comes to mind is “taste.” Located 65 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge in the heart of Sonoma Valley wine country, Healdsburg is a charming yet chic getaway for Bay Area locals and tourists alike. The city, whose population is less than 12,000, has organically evolved and is largely homegrown by locals who have migrated from San Francisco over the past 20 to 30 years. Drawn to its natural visual beauty, relaxed pace and small town charm, Healdsburg residents and business owners are committed to preserving the agricultural roots of their town while adding an evolving air of sophistication. A blend of fine wine, farm to table food, arts and culture characterize the city, as tastemakers from each industry carefully curate their offerings with a commitment to quality, creativity and distinct sense of place.

Healdsburg is nestled at the intersection of three stellar wine regions, the Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley; and is also surrounded by rich agriculture and sustainable farms. Subsequently, chefs, winemakers and restaurant owners are drawn to Healdsburg and were some of the first to revolutionize the area. Don’t miss Jordan Winery, Healdsburg SHED and Barndiva Gallery Bar & Bistro. Sonoma Valley, however, has also long been considered an artist’s haven as makers, craftsmen and plein air painters in the 1970s sought more affordable lifestyles and inspiring natural beauty outside city limits. Today there are 27,000 registered artists living in Sonoma County, resulting in regional events such as Sonoma County Art Trails. This open studio event occurs every October, aligning with the fall grape harvest and wine releases.