Map out your next visit to Petaluma with our 10 favorite dog-friendly places!
Petaluma is one of the largest cities in Sonoma County, offering a wide range of kid and dog friendly things to do. When you hear Sonoma County you think wine right? In Sonoma County, wine tasting is a given, but did you know Petaluma has a great craft beer community, and is one of the most dog-friendly cities in California! Petaluma also hosts unique history, fun shops, wonderful restaurants, family farms, and the great outdoors.
We visited Petaluma recently and though Covid-19 has changed how we enjoy most activities, we found it safe, friendly, and clean. Before you go, just make sure to check with restaurants, shopping, and lodging to confirm hours of operation, safety protocols, and time limits.
Here are 10 of our favorite spots when visiting Petaluma
Brewster’s Beer Garden: Brewster’s offers great outdoor dining in a safe and comfortable environment. Plenty of spaced apart tables with heat lamps to keep you warm. My family has a new acronym – B.Y.O.B – Bring Your Own Blanket. This insures we’ll stay cozy while enjoying outdoor dining. I encourage making a reservation. It’s easy to do and it doesn’t leave you waiting if the place is filled.
Schollenberger Park: One of the best parks for wildlife viewing of the many species of birds and other wildlife can be seen here. The park features a two-mile circular trail and a one-mile cutoff trail across an iron bridge spanning Adobe Creek and running through Alman Marsh to the Petaluma Marina.
Hen House Brewing: Closed for patio seating but are taking to-go orders of their fantastic beer.
ILeoni: My favorite Kitchen, home, and gift shop in Downtown Petaluma. It’s a must stop each time we visit the area!
Lala’s Creamery: Organic, Gourmet, and tasty! My daughter’s first stop when we arrive in Petaluma.
Wild Goat Bistro: Located in the historic Great Petaluma Mill. Wild Goat Bistro is a charming and comfortable space using local ingredients to create delightful gluten-free dishes.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Hotel Petaluma & Sheraton Petaluma
Dillon Beach: Dillon Beach Resort sits on 55 coastal acres on the Marin-Sonoma County Line, between the mouth of Tomales and the entrance to Bodega Bay. Views of the magnificent Point Reyes Peninsula can be enjoyed from any vantage point.
Nick’s Cove: Nick’s Cove is one of the last remaining historic settlements catering to the early California tourist trade on the beautiful Tomales Bay coastland. It’s served as a depot for tourism, local fishermen and agricultural operations throughout its history. Nick’s Cove is a 25 minute drive from Petaluma and so worth it as Nick’s has THE BEST Tamales Tonic hands down! We always make a special trip for fish & chips and a Tamales Tonic. Make sure you talk a walk down the pier to the Boat House for the perfect sunset view!
Bodega Bay: Go for the clam chowder at Spud Point, stay for the beauty of nature! Bodega Bay is a 25 minute drive from Petaluma and a favorite spot for Crab and clam chowder! Unfortunately dining at Spud Point Crab Company is not an option at this time. However, their Take-Out is! We enjoyed a delightful car picnic during our visit!
We love visiting Petaluma! Let me know your favorite places to visit in Petaluma. I’d love to hear from you!
