Sonoma Valley guide

Sonoma Plaza guide: history, what to see and where to go

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

The short answerSonoma Plaza is the park at the center of the town of Sonoma and the largest town plaza in California. Laid out in 1835 by Mariano Vallejo, it is where the Bear Flag Revolt began in 1846. Walk the square, visit the Mission and Barracks (Sonoma State Historic Park, open daily 10am to 5pm), then eat or taste at the restaurants and tasting rooms on its four sides.

A short history

General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo laid out the Plaza in 1835. In June 1846 a group of American settlers seized Sonoma and raised the Bear Flag here, starting the short-lived California Republic; a Bear Flag monument now marks the spot. City Hall, in the middle of the square, was dedicated in 1908 and was built with four identical sides so that no side of the Plaza would feel slighted. The Plaza and the buildings around it form a National Historic Landmark District.

What to see on and around the Plaza

Mission San Francisco Solano (114 E. Spain St.), founded in 1823, the last and northernmost California mission.
Sonoma Barracks (36 E. Spain St.), built to house Mexican troops; the state park's gift shop is here.
General Vallejo's home, Lachryma Montis (363 Third St. West), a short walk or drive west.
Historic buildings including the Blue Wing Inn and the Toscano Hotel, and the Sebastiani Theatre.
The Bear Flag monument and City Hall in the park itself.

The Mission, Barracks and Vallejo's home are all part of Sonoma State Historic Park. Hours are 10am to 5pm daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.

Parking and getting around

California State Parks notes free public parking behind the Sonoma Barracks, off First Street West. Once you're parked, everything on the Plaza is a few minutes' walk. Note that the state historic park doesn't allow alcohol or drones on park property.

Eat, drink and stay near the Plaza

Places on or near the square include The Red Grape, Della Santina's, the Swiss Hotel bar and restaurant and Murphy's Irish Pub. To stay within walking distance, look at El Dorado Hotel, Swiss Hotel, The Sonoma Hotel and Ledson Hotel. Browse every restaurant in Sonoma.

Make it a day

Add a bike ride with Sonoma Adventures (they meet just north of the Plaza on Broadway), or drive ten minutes east to Buena Vista Winery. The Depot Park Museum and the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art are both close by.

Questions

Is Sonoma Plaza the largest plaza in California?

Yes. Sonoma Plaza is generally described, including by Visit California, as the largest town plaza in California.

Is parking free near Sonoma Plaza?

There is free public parking behind the Sonoma Barracks, off First Street West, according to California State Parks. Street parking around the Plaza may be time-limited, so check posted signs.

What happened at Sonoma Plaza in 1846?

The Bear Flag Revolt. American settlers took the town in June 1846 and raised the Bear Flag, declaring the short-lived California Republic. A monument on the Plaza marks the site.

What are the hours of the Mission in Sonoma?

Mission San Francisco Solano is part of Sonoma State Historic Park, open daily 10am to 5pm, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.

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.