The Millennials’ Guide to 48 Hours in Petaluma, California
Boutique in downtown Petaluma.
Boutique in downtown Petaluma.
Often when people think of Sonoma County they picture rolling hills with vineyards and wineries. Petaluma is a hidden gem amidst California Wine Country, a little town filled with charm and yet surprisingly very modern and trendy. Petaluma has somehow managed to walk the fine line between preserving all the old-world antiquities while still keeping the vibes fresh and welcoming for millennials.
In this guide I’ll tell you the best way to discover the favorite “must see” spots in Petaluma that are tailor-made for us millennials. Build your itinerary with where to stay, what to eat and where to explore… and of course where to take photos.
Acre Coffee is now called Avid Coffee, but it’s the same great brews, including my favorite matcha latte.
Acre Coffee is now called Avid Coffee, but it’s the same great brews, including my favorite matcha latte.
My Favorite Downtown Petaluma Lunch Options
Avid Coffee
First stop for me in Petaluma was Avid Coffee located in downtown Petaluma at 21 4th St. (they have multiple locations in Northern California). I was feeling low in energy after my drive in from the city and caffeine from my perfectly crafted matcha latte did the trick. They also serve earl grey lattes which is also one of my all-time favorites! This location is very centrally located and you can pretty much walk to everything downtown with your beverage in hand.
Lunchette
Healthy and fresh carryout plant-based lunches made with seasonal, organic and local ingredients. Located at 25 4th Street. Take your lunch up the road and enjoy a picnic on the grassy hill of Penry Park.
Petaluma Pie Company
Pie for lunch? Savory pies are a YES! for a meal. They’ve got farm-to-table flavors like spinach + feta and all kinds of Indian and Japanese curries. The savory pies are made in individual sizes so you can each get your own flavor combos.
Angela’s Ice Cream was formerly known as La La’s, located in downtown Petaluma.
Angela’s Ice Cream was formerly known as La La’s, located in downtown Petaluma.
Sweet Tooth Spots in Petaluma
Angela’s Creamery
In-house made organic ice-cream sourced from local farms. My favorite flavors are Honest Lemon Curd and French Custard. Plus the shop is cute as button inside!
Exploring Petaluma
Historical Victorian Houses
One of the hallmarks of Petaluma are the beautiful Victorian houses that line the streets of downtown Petaluma. A leisurely walk down Kentucky Street behind Penry Park is a sight for sore eyes for all property lovers.
Farmer’s Market
On Wednesday’s you can visit the downtown Petaluma Farmer’s Market happening on Second St. It runs seasonally from June until August from 4:30pm - 8pm.
Lavender Bee Farm
There’s few things us millennials like more than flower fields, and you can find rows of beautiful planted lavender at the Petaluma Lavender Bee Farm. Hop in the car and drive to 764 Chapman Lane in Petaluma. Make sure to contact them before you arrive because they don’t have regularly scheduled open hours for the public.
Drinks and Good Vibes
Brewsters Beer Garden
A beautiful open-air setting and serving local craft beers and Southern BBQ. This joint prides itself on being a great place to bring kids and dogs, while still being appealing for adults.
Old Silk Mill Hampton Inn Petaluma
Old Silk Mill Hampton Inn Petaluma
Petaluma Restaurants Serving Up Good Atmosphere + Delicious Dinner Menu
Sake 107
Authentic Japanese and sushi eats, and serving until 10pm of Friday and Saturday for you night owls. Located at 107 Petaluma Blvd N in downtown Petaluma.
Central Market
If you’re looking to splurge on some high-brow eats, Central Market provides a farm-to-table rustic California-Mediterranean dinner menu.
Old Silk Mill Hampton Inn Petaluma
Old Silk Mill Hampton Inn Petaluma
Where to Stay in Petaluma
Silk Mill Hamptons Inn
What happens when you turn an old silk mill into a new trendy hotel? You get a sweet spot to rest your tired soles after a day of exploring in Petaluma.
Hotel Petaluma
Established in 1923, this hotel offers sophisticated surroundings in a very central location in downtown Petaluma.
Metro Hotel & Cafe
This quirky hotel has clawfoot bathtubs and some of the hotel rooms are actually inside decked-out airstreams. Need I say more?!
