Downtown Santa Rosa
Downtown Santa Rosa blends small-town charm with a cultured vibe, offering historic Railroad Square, Peanuts nostalgia, and a vibrant culinary scene.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Street fairs and live music
Downtown Santa Rosa
Best Time
Street fairs and live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Downtown Santa Rosa blends small-town charm with a cultured vibe, offering historic Railroad Square, Peanuts nostalgia, and a vibrant culinary scene.
"Santa Rosa is a charming little town. The storefronts are decorated in style. Very hip."
☕ Coffee & Pastry Stops
Don't miss Aroma De Cafe for great coffee and Huevos Rancheros, or Criminal Baking Company for amazing pastries.
🍣 Diverse Dining Options
Explore Pho Vietnam for authentic pho or HanBul Korean BBQ for a delicious grill experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Charles M. Schulz Museum
Near Downtown
Celebrate the beloved creator of Peanuts with exhibits and memorabilia. A must-visit for fans!
Railroad Square
Downtown
Explore historic buildings, unique shops, and the California Welcome Center with Peanuts souvenirs.
Local Culinary Scene
Various locations
From artisanal bakeries and coffee shops to diverse international cuisine, Santa Rosa's food scene is a delight.
Blind Scream Haunted House
Downtown
Experience thrilling scares at this popular haunted attraction, especially during the Halloween season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Navigating Downtown
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Coffee & Pastry Stops
Don't miss Aroma De Cafe for great coffee and Huevos Rancheros, or Criminal Baking Company for amazing pastries.
🍣 Diverse Dining Options
Explore Pho Vietnam for authentic pho or HanBul Korean BBQ for a delicious grill experience.
🛍️ Shop Local Finds
Discover unique boutiques and local vendors, especially in Railroad Square and during night markets.
🚗 Parking Smart
While walkable, parking can be tricky. Consider the SMART Train or plan your route to nearby lots.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Coffee & Pastry Stops
Don't miss Aroma De Cafe for great coffee and Huevos Rancheros, or Criminal Baking Company for amazing pastries.
🍣 Diverse Dining Options
Explore Pho Vietnam for authentic pho or HanBul Korean BBQ for a delicious grill experience.
🛍️ Shop Local Finds
Discover unique boutiques and local vendors, especially in Railroad Square and during night markets.
🚗 Parking Smart
While walkable, parking can be tricky. Consider the SMART Train or plan your route to nearby lots.
⏰ Early Closures
Be aware that many businesses close around 9 PM, so plan your evening activities accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Downtown Santa Rosa is praised for its charming, hip atmosphere and diverse culinary scene, with many visitors enjoying the historic Railroad Square and Peanuts-themed attractions. However, some reviews mention issues with pests and early closing times for businesses.
"Santa Rosa is a charming little town. The storefronts are decorated in style. Very hip. The only downfall is that everything closes around 9 PM."
Nova Smith
"Down town has rats and pests problem seen rats pop out of wholes from the side walk on 4th 3th 2th 6th a street and more its sad when u see a city that used to keep it clean and now rats even the library has rats and there not afraid of humans but will stay away"
Michael Wyld
"I love the SMART Train ride to Downtown Santa Rosa's Courthouse Square😍 Aroma Coffee Roasters (I know the name is something close with what I wrote) is there to quench my caffeine thirst when I arrive each and every time. I am made happy because I see the huge Peanuts statues by Charles Schultz. I am thankful to Santa Rosa and Sonoma County for helping to shape my life growing up🙂 Wine country, river vibes, green grass in abunDance, music, and so much else... OMG I forgot to mention the California cuisine. AND FOOD. Thank you Sonoma County for keeping me kind.
Sincerely,
Kailee Eicher"
Kailee Eicher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to Downtown Santa Rosa, with various parking options available. The SMART Train also offers a convenient way to reach Courthouse Square, providing easy access to the heart of downtown.
Yes, Downtown Santa Rosa is very walkable, especially around Courthouse Square and Railroad Square. Many shops, restaurants, and attractions are within easy strolling distance.
Walking is ideal for exploring the immediate downtown area. For longer distances or to arrive at Courthouse Square, the SMART Train is a popular and scenic option.
The SMART Train is a key public transportation option that stops at the Santa Rosa Transit Mall, providing excellent access to Downtown Santa Rosa and Railroad Square.
Parking is available in various lots and on-street meters throughout Downtown Santa Rosa. Some areas may have time limits, so it's good to check signage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Downtown Santa Rosa itself does not require tickets for entry. However, individual attractions like the Charles M. Schulz Museum or Blind Scream Haunted House will have their own admission fees and ticketing requirements.
Shop hours can vary, but many businesses in Downtown Santa Rosa tend to close around 9 PM. It's always best to check the specific hours for individual stores or restaurants you plan to visit.
Exploring Railroad Square, enjoying the public art, and visiting the California Welcome Center are free activities. Many of the street fairs and markets are also free to browse.
For specific attractions like the Charles M. Schulz Museum or Blind Scream Haunted House, it's highly recommended to check their official websites for online ticket purchases to ensure availability and potentially save time.
Weekday mornings generally offer a lower crowd experience. Weekends and summer evenings can be busier due to markets, street fairs, and live music events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown Santa Rosa boasts a diverse culinary scene. Popular spots include Pho Vietnam for Vietnamese cuisine, HanBul Korean BBQ for grilled meats, and Aroma De Cafe for brunch and coffee. Don't forget bakeries like Criminal Baking Company.
Absolutely! Espresso Sosos Coffee and Aroma De Cafe are highly recommended for their quality coffee and inviting atmosphere.
You'll find a wide range of options, from classic American fare and burgers at places like Beer Baron,
to international flavors like Vietnamese pho, Korean BBQ, and delicious pastries from local bakeries.Many restaurants in Downtown Santa Rosa are family-friendly. Places with a casual atmosphere and diverse menus, like those offering pizza or American comfort food, are generally good choices for families.
Try the artisanal ice cream from local vendors,
unique pastries from Criminal Baking Company, or explore the diverse offerings at the SoCo Market for a taste of local culinary creativity.📸 📸 Photography
Railroad Square with its historic architecture and the Peanuts statues near Courthouse Square are iconic photo opportunities. The vibrant storefronts and local art also make for great shots.
Yes, the Peanuts statues near Courthouse Square are a major draw for Snoopy fans and offer fantastic photo opportunities. The California Welcome Center also has Peanuts souvenirs.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be bright, but the colorful storefronts and public art remain visually appealing.
Generally, it's polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private businesses. Many shops are happy to have you share their offerings, especially if you tag them on social media.
Summer street fairs and the SoCo Night Market often feature vibrant decorations, diverse vendors, and lively crowds, making them excellent opportunities for dynamic photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Charles M. Schulz Museum is a highlight for all ages, be mindful of the closing times for shops and restaurants, as many close around 9 PM. The SMART Train ride can also be an enjoyable experience for kids, offering a different perspective of the area.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
After a day of wine tasting, return to Downtown Santa Rosa to enjoy its diverse dining scene and relaxed evening atmosphere. Many hotels are located downtown, offering convenient access to both wine country and the city's amenities.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider utilizing the SMART Train for transportation to avoid parking fees and enjoy scenic views. Look out for free community events like street fairs and markets, which provide entertainment and opportunities to sample local treats at reasonable prices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Railroad Square
The square is not just about history; it's a vibrant part of the community. You can often find local vendors and events taking place here, adding to its lively charm. It's a perfect spot to wander, discover hidden gems, and soak in the local culture. The blend of historical architecture and modern-day commerce makes Railroad Square a truly special place to explore.
A Culinary Journey Through Downtown Santa Rosa
The dining scene extends to international flavors, with highly-rated establishments such as Pho Vietnam offering authentic Vietnamese cuisine and HanBul Korean BBQ providing a fun, interactive dining experience. For those seeking classic American comfort food, Beer Baron is a popular choice for burgers and wings. The presence of local ice cream vendors also adds a sweet touch to the downtown experience.
Beyond individual restaurants, events like the SoCo Market bring together a variety of local food vendors, showcasing the region's culinary talent and offering a chance to sample a wide array of treats. This vibrant food culture makes Downtown Santa Rosa a destination in itself for anyone who appreciates good food and local flavors.
The Peanuts Legacy in Santa Rosa
Downtown itself is adorned with charming Peanuts statues, particularly around Courthouse Square, offering delightful photo opportunities for fans. The California Welcome Center in Railroad Square also embraces this legacy, offering a variety of Peanuts-themed souvenirs. This enduring connection ensures that the spirit of Peanuts is alive and well in Santa Rosa, adding a unique and heartwarming dimension to any visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit