Sonoma Valley guide

Glen Ellen and Kenwood day trip

By the Everything Sonoma editors · Fact-checked October 16, 2026 · Sources

The short answerSpend the morning at Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen, have lunch in the village, taste at one or two wineries along Highway 12 in Glen Ellen and Kenwood, then finish with a short walk or sunset at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Glen Ellen is about 20 minutes north of Sonoma.

Morning: Jack London's Beauty Ranch

Arrive when Jack London State Historic Park opens at 9am. See the House of Happy Walls museum (10am to 5pm), walk to the Wolf House ruins and London's grave, and visit the cottage (open noon to 4pm). Entry is $10 per vehicle.

Lunch in Glen Ellen

The village is tiny and walkable, built along Sonoma Creek. Glen Ellen Star is the best-known table. See all restaurants in Glen Ellen.

Afternoon: wineries

In Glen Ellen: Benziger Family Winery, B.R. Cohn, Lasseter Family Winery and Mayo Family Winery. In Kenwood: Kunde, Chateau St. Jean and En Garde. Book ahead and pick two.

Late afternoon: Sugarloaf Ridge

Drive up Adobe Canyon Road to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park for the creekside nature trail, or check the Robert Ferguson Observatory's schedule for an evening program. Day use runs until 10pm; $8 per vehicle.

Swap-ins

With kids or a dog, trade the winery stop for Sonoma Valley Regional Park and its dog park. Garden lovers: Sonoma Botanical Garden in Glen Ellen.

Questions

How far is Glen Ellen from Sonoma?

About a 20-minute drive north, according to California State Parks' directions to Jack London State Historic Park.

Is Glen Ellen worth visiting?

Yes, for Jack London State Historic Park, a quiet village center, wineries and nearby regional parks.

What is Kenwood, California known for?

Wineries along Highway 12 and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, with its trails, campground and observatory.

Sources

Facts in this guide were checked on October 16, 2026 against these sources. Hours, prices and rules change, so confirm with the business or park before you go.

About this guide

Everything Sonoma is an independent guide to Sonoma Valley. We don't accept payment for coverage in guides; featured listings are always labeled. Spot something out of date? Email [email protected] or send a correction. Read how we choose listings.