Petaluma(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Petaluma, the standout boutique hotel is The Petaluma Hotel, a stylish urban retreat blending historic architecture with modern comforts. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s steps from Petaluma City Hall, Old Town Market, and indie galleries. Each room features locally crafted furnishings and vintage California art, reflecting the town’s creative spirit.

For a more secluded experience, consider The Willows at Petaluma, a private eco-lodge nestled in an old oak grove. It offers personalized service, a rooftop hot tub, and curated local wine pairings. Both properties emphasize sustainability—using organic linens, solar energy, and sourcing breakfast ingredients from nearby farms—making them ideal for travelers seeking authentic Northern California character.

The downtown core of Petaluma is the perfect base for first-time visitors. This walkable district brims with charm: cobblestone streets, restored 19th-century buildings, and vibrant shops like Petaluma Books and Café Salsa. You’re just minutes from Petaluma City Hall, Old Town Market, and the scenic Petaluma River Trail.

It also offers easy access to local highlights such as the Petaluma Historical Museum and Sutter Street Art District. With plenty of cafes, live music venues, and seasonal events like the Sunday farmers’ market, staying here ensures you’re immersed in the town’s cultural heartbeat while enjoying convenience and safety.

During your stay in Petaluma, don’t miss the Petaluma River Lights Festival, an annual autumn event where the riverbanks glow with thousands of handcrafted lanterns, accompanied by live jazz and street performances. It’s a magical, community-driven celebration of light and creativity.

Alternatively, visit the Old Town Market at night—some vendors extend hours into the evening, serving local specialties like artisanal cheeses, wood-fired flatbreads, and apple pie. For something quieter, book a stargazing session at The Willows at Petaluma, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Milky Way under dark-sky conditions, often paired with a glass of Sonoma wine.

Yes, Petaluma Family Inn stands out as a top choice for families. It offers connecting rooms, a dedicated kids’ play area, and weekly family workshops like farm animal feeding, strawberry picking, and nature scavenger hunts.

Located near the Petaluma River Trail and Agricultural Park, the hotel supports outdoor adventures with free bike rentals and picnic kits. Children can participate in seasonal programs such as “Farm-to-Table Cooking Day” or “Nighttime Story Walk.” The staff are trained in child safety and hospitality, ensuring a relaxed, joyful experience for all ages.

For couples seeking romance, The Willows at Petaluma delivers an unforgettable escape. This secluded woodland lodge features private hot tubs, canopy beds draped in soft linen, and nightly candlelit dinners on the deck.

Enjoy a sunrise yoga session in the garden, followed by a guided tasting at a nearby Sonoma winery. The property also hosts intimate acoustic sets and moonlight strolls along the Petaluma River Trail. With no cell service and minimal lighting, it’s designed to foster deep connection—perfect for recharging love amidst Northern California’s serene countryside.

Most hotels in Petaluma, especially those in the downtown area like The Petaluma Hotel and Cottage Inn at Petaluma, provide complimentary parking for guests. Many have secure, on-site lots or underground garages, ideal for travelers arriving by car.

Some boutique lodges may charge a small fee ($10–$15/day) if parking is limited or reserved. Always confirm parking details when HopeGoo. Given Petaluma’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout, many attractions—including the Old Town Market and River Trail—are within walking distance, reducing the need for daily driving.

Absolutely. Several Petaluma hotels welcome pets, including The Petaluma Hotel and Cottage Inn at Petaluma, which offer pet-friendly rooms with amenities like dog beds, food bowls, and maps to nearby off-leash parks.

Many guesthouses also feature fenced yards or private patios. A small fee ($25–$50 per stay) may apply. Pets are allowed on the Petaluma River Trail and in Agricultural Park, making it easy to explore nature together. Just remember to clean up after your furry companion and follow local leash laws for a respectful stay.

Near Petaluma hotels, dining options abound. Try Café Salsa for fresh Mexican fare with a garden patio, or The Old Town Market Café for farm-to-table breakfasts and lunch specials using local produce.

For fine dining, Bella Vista Restaurant offers Italian-inspired cuisine with a view of the Petaluma River. Don’t miss Petaluma Brewing Company, a cozy taproom serving craft beer and hearty pub fare—perfect for post-adventure relaxation. All are within a 10-minute walk from most downtown hotels.

Yes, many Petaluma hotels partner with local tour operators to arrange wine-tasting excursions in Sonoma County. Guests can book half-day or full-day tours visiting renowned wineries like Hirsch Vineyards and Frey Vineyards, known for their organic and biodynamic practices.

Tours often include transportation, a guide, and tastings with cheese pairings. Some hotels even offer in-room wine concierge services, helping you select bottles based on your palate. These experiences are ideal for wine lovers eager to explore the region’s terroir-rich landscapes.

The easiest way to reach Petaluma from San Francisco is by car—approximately 1 hour via Highway 101 or Route 12. Alternatively, take the Sonoma County Transit bus line 61, which runs from San Francisco’s Transbay Terminal to Petaluma Downtown, taking about 1.5 hours.

For a scenic route, ride the Amtrak Coast Starlight train to Santa Rosa, then transfer to a shuttle or local bus to Petaluma. Most hotels offer airport pickup services from Santa Rosa Airport (STS), which is just 25 minutes away. Public transit and rideshare options make it convenient for day-trippers and weekend visitors alike.