Hotels in Petaluma

Petaluma: Where the River Whispers Secrets of History and Nature

Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, Petaluma, California, is a charming riverside city that effortlessly blends history with vibrant culture. Known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, Petaluma invites travelers to stroll its picturesque streets, explore artisanal shops, and savor local cuisine. The nearby Petaluma Marsh offers serene landscapes for birdwatching and hiking, while the nearby Bodega Bay provides stunning coastal views. Just a short drive from San Francisco, this off-the-beaten-path gem is perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat amidst Northern California's natural beauty. Discover the unique charm of Petaluma today! For the best hotel rates in Petaluma, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Petaluma

Some of the best places to stay in Petaluma are Downtown Napa, Albany and Southwest Santa Rosa. Petaluma is a charming destination, and nearby areas like Downtown Napa, Albany, and Southwest Santa Rosa offer unique experiences for travelers. Downtown Napa is perfect for wine enthusiasts and first-time visitors, featuring vibrant dining and shopping. Albany boasts a laid-back atmosphere with parks and local eateries, while Southwest Santa Rosa offers easy access to nature and attractions. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy boutique hotels to comfortable motels, ensuring a pleasant stay for all types of travelers. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Petaluma:

1. Downtown NapaOpens in a new window: Downtown Napa is a vibrant area perfect for those interested in outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. It boasts attractions like the historic Napa Valley Wine Train and the bustling Oxbow Public Market. For accommodations, consider Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts CollectionOpens in a new window, which offers business amenities and romantic packages, making it suitable for families and couples alike. Another option is Carneros Resort and SpaOpens in a new window, featuring adventure activities nearby and a family-friendly atmosphere. For golf enthusiasts, The Estate YountvilleOpens in a new window provides excellent business facilities and a romantic setting, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
2. AlbanyOpens in a new window: Albany caters to families and business travelers with easy access to points of interest like Pier 39 and the Chase Center. The area is well-connected to San Francisco, making it a convenient choice. Claremont Club & Spa - A Fairmont HotelOpens in a new window offers a mix of adventure and business amenities, including a 24-hour business center and family-friendly services. Alternatively, 1 Hotel San FranciscoOpens in a new window is located in the city center and provides comfortable accommodations for families and business guests. Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at EmbarcaderoOpens in a new window also offers luxury options with essential business amenities.
3. Southwest Santa RosaOpens in a new window: Southwest Santa Rosa is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with attractions like the Sonoma County Fairgrounds and Charles M. Schulz Museum. The area is known for its family-friendly activities and beautiful landscapes. Farmhouse InnOpens in a new window provides a luxurious spa experience and business facilities for corporate travelers. For those seeking adventure, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa ValleyOpens in a new window offers various outdoor activities and family amenities, while Alila Napa Valley, a Hyatt Luxury ResortOpens in a new window features romantic packages and stunning views, perfect for a couple's retreat.

Things to do in Petaluma for first time

A visit to Petaluma typically requires three days to fully enjoy its scenic river landscapes, lush parks, and nearby coastal beauty. Travelers can engage in outdoor activities like hiking and boating, while the vibrant local scene offers live music, shopping, and entertainment to round out your experience. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Petaluma:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Petaluma at the historic Sonoma Plaza, a vibrant hub filled with charming shops and delightful eateries. Take some time to explore the local boutiques and enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes. Next, make your way to Haraszthy Villa, an architectural gem set amidst beautiful landscapes; here, you can discover the history of winemaking in the area. Conclude your day with a visit to the Vallejo Home, where you can step back in time and learn about the life of one of California's early settlers, enhancing your understanding of the region's rich heritage.
• Day 2: Start your morning with a scenic ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train, offering breathtaking views of the vineyards while you savor a delicious breakfast. Afterward, head to Mission San Francisco Solano, the northernmost of California's missions, where you can explore its fascinating history. Wrap up your day at Lachryma Montis, the historic site that provides insight into the life of General Vallejo and offers beautiful grounds perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Sonoma County Fairgrounds, where you can check out any local events or fairs that might be happening during your visit. Following that, take a peaceful walk through Cornerstone Gardens, a stunning collection of themed gardens that provide a serene atmosphere for relaxation and inspiration. Finally, head to Jack London State Historic Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature while exploring the trails and learning about the life of the famous author, making for a fulfilling end to your Petaluma experience.

5 tips to find a great Petaluma hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Petaluma is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least two months in advance for better deals. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, such as the scenic river. This approach ensures you experience great value for money while exploring Petaluma's charm.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Petaluma, you might want to check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you could find some of the lowest rates available as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of scoring great discounts, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you can stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, making it easier to snag a great deal for your stay in Petaluma.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Petaluma.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Petaluma is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or bus to explore the area, which can help you save money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Petaluma and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Petaluma

Here are a few popular dishes in Petaluma, California, United States of America:

• Burritos: A beloved Californian staple, Petaluma's burritos often feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients like grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables, and house-made salsas, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. These portable meals are perfect for a spontaneous picnic by the Petaluma River.
• Grilled Cheese: Experience gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches made with artisanal bread and creamy, melty cheeses from local dairies. Often accompanied by tomato soup, this comforting dish showcases the area’s emphasis on high-quality, regional products.
• Seafood: Petaluma's proximity to the coast means fresh seafood is abundant. Enjoy dishes like clam chowder or fish tacos made with daily catches, celebrating the region's rich maritime heritage and often served at laid-back waterfront eateries.

Best time to go to Petaluma

Petaluma experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 49.8°F (9.9°C), while August and September are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 66.6°F (19.2°C). January is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Petaluma, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.