Sonoma Valley guide

Things to do in Sonoma besides wine

By the Everything Sonoma editors · Fact-checked October 20, 2026 · Sources

The short answerPlenty of Sonoma Valley has nothing to do with wine. Walk the Sonoma Plaza and visit the Mission and Sonoma State Historic Park, explore Jack London's ranch in Glen Ellen, hike Sugarloaf Ridge above Kenwood, watch racing or drive a kart at Sonoma Raceway, and let dogs run at Sonoma Valley Regional Park.

History on the Plaza

The Sonoma Plaza, laid out in 1835, is the largest town plaza in California and a National Historic Landmark District. On its corner, Mission San Francisco Solano (1823) is the last of California's 21 missions and part of Sonoma State Historic Park. More in our Plaza guide.

Jack London's ranch

Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen covers the author's ranch, with his cottage, the House of Happy Walls museum, the Wolf House ruins and miles of trails.

Hiking and stargazing

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park above Kenwood has about 25 miles of trails and a seasonal waterfall, and the Robert Ferguson Observatory in the park runs public programs. See hiking trails near Sonoma.

Speed

Sonoma Raceway hosts NASCAR and NHRA weekends, and the Karting Center runs courses for drivers 13 and up. Details in our raceway guide.

Parks, dogs and bikes

Sonoma Valley Regional Park allows dogs on leash and has a fenced off-leash dog park. For riding, see biking Sonoma Valley. Browse all things to do.

Questions

What is there to do in Sonoma if you don't drink?

History on the Plaza and at the Mission, Jack London State Historic Park, hiking at Sugarloaf Ridge, Sonoma Raceway and karting, and regional parks.

Is Sonoma worth visiting without wine tasting?

Yes. The town's Plaza and Mission, state parks and the raceway are all main attractions on their own.

Sources

Facts in this guide were checked on October 20, 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 Spot something out of date?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.