Historic 1910 Post Office
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Museum of Sonoma County

4.5
·155 reviews·Santa Rosa, United States

Discover Sonoma County's past and vibrant art scene in this charming museum housed in a historic post office.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Historic 1910 Post Office

Museum of Sonoma County

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Sonoma County's past and vibrant art scene in this charming museum housed in a historic post office.

4.5
(155 reviews)

"A good museum to stop. I visited the Museum of Sonoma County and was pleasantly surprised by its charming exhibits."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate! Visit their website to see what's on before you go.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Buildings

Don't miss the separate history and art buildings, plus the sculpture garden.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sonoma County History

Sonoma County History

History Building

Discover the region's past, from indigenous peoples to immigrant stories and the first airmail flight.

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Art Building

Experience diverse and thought-provoking art, from local artists to national touring exhibitions.

Sculpture Garden

Sculpture Garden

Outdoor Garden

A peaceful outdoor space featuring various sculptures, perfect for a moment of reflection.

Charles M. Schulz & Peanuts

Charles M. Schulz & Peanuts

Various displays

While not a dedicated Snoopy museum, find charming nods to the beloved cartoonist and his characters.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Art & History Blend

The Museum of Sonoma County offers a unique mix of regional history and rotating art exhibits. Plan for at least 1-2 hours to explore both buildings and the sculpture garden. Check their website for current exhibitions, as they change frequently.

Snoopy's Charm & Beyond

While the museum has a strong connection to Charles M. Schulz and Snoopy, it's not solely a 'Snoopy museum.' Expect diverse art and local history. If Snoopy is your main draw, consider the California Welcome Center in Railroad Square for souvenirs.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Lively atmosphere & unique programming
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for a relaxed visit
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

the cutest day trip with my mom ever bc we both love the peanuts characters 🥹 #snoopy #snoopymuseum #museum #charliebrown #peanuts #santarosa #norcal #bayarea #thingstodoincalifornia
@isaberrya
336.4K likes • 2.1M views

🎟️ Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate! Visit their website to see what's on before you go. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Buildings

Don't miss the separate history and art buildings, plus the sculpture garden. Reddit

We visited the snoopy museum for only $2! #snoopy #snoopychristmas #snoopydog #bayarea #sanfrancisco #thingstodoinsf #santarosa #museum #sftravel #sfbayarea #snoopymuseum #charliebrown #peanuts #thingstodoinsf #sftiktok #
@juicezlyn
96.6K likes • 761.5K views
We’re turning 7th Street into a vibrant celebration! 🎉 Come by the Museum of Sonoma County for a FREE event filled with art, culture, and community connection: ✨ Lowrider showcase 🌮 Delicious eats from local food trucks 🎭 Performances by local dance groups 🎨 Kids activities in our garden 🚗 Trunk or Treat fun 🤝 Resource booths from local nonprofits Our entire campus is open and free to explore. ...
museumsc
126 likes • 3.8K views

🚗 Parking Availability

Street parking is usually available, but can fill up during busy times. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Plenty of unique spots for photos, especially with art installations. TikTok

Museum of Sonoma County Presents “Cruisin” with Sonoma County Lowriders🤎 Grand Opening June 22 24’ history was made. Being able to be a main part of putting this together was such a blessing and a dream that came to life. Not only was I able to help put it together, but also have the privilege to have my art be a part of it as well as my so talented, novia’s art🥀 also alongside @logarduno10 Than...
chuko_tattoos
56 likes • 2.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate! Visit their website to see what's on before you go. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Buildings

Don't miss the separate history and art buildings, plus the sculpture garden. Reddit

🚗 Parking Availability

Street parking is usually available, but can fill up during busy times. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Plenty of unique spots for photos, especially with art installations. TikTok

💰 Affordable Admission

Great value for the experience, often praised as budget-friendly. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(155 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Museum of Sonoma County to be a charming and worthwhile stop, appreciating its blend of regional history and diverse art exhibitions. The affordable admission and friendly staff are frequently highlighted positives, though some note that exhibit spaces can be small and are subject to change.

"Small interesting museum space located in a former U.S. Postal Office building. The first airmail in the US flew out of Sonoma County in 1911, when Fred Wiseman flew from Petaluma to Santa Rosa, delivering mail, newspapers, and other items. This flight is considered the first airmail delivery sanctioned by a U.S. postLots of good"

Kay Jay

"A good museum to stop. I visited the Museum of Sonoma County and was pleasantly surprised by its charming exhibits. The blend of art and history offered a great insight into the region's culture. It’s a cozy spot that’s definitely worth a visit."

Carlo R. Carranza

"Lovely museum! There are two separate buildings with different galleries & a sculpture garden. Friendly staff. Highly recommend a visit!"

Kei Loves2Travel&Eat

What People Like

Engaging history exhibits
Diverse art collections
Affordable admission

What People Dislike

Small exhibit spaces
Exhibits change frequently

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in downtown Santa Rosa. It's accessible by car, with street parking often available. Public transportation options also serve the area. TikTok

Yes, street parking is available around the museum. It can get busy, especially on weekends or during events, so factor in a little extra time to find a spot. Reddit

Santa Rosa has a bus system that serves the downtown area. Check the local transit authority's website for routes and schedules that stop near the museum. TikTok

The museum generally aims to be accessible. The historic building may have some limitations, but the art building and garden are typically easier to navigate. It's best to call ahead if you have specific accessibility needs. Reddit

From San Francisco, you can drive north on US-101. The drive typically takes about 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. Alternatively, consider a bus service. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Museum hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on opening days and times. Reddit

Admission is generally affordable, making it a great value. Check the museum's website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts. TikTok

For regular visits, you can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for special events or popular exhibitions, booking in advance might be recommended. Reddit

The museum sometimes hosts free community events or has specific days with reduced or free admission. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements. Instagram

Yes, typically a single admission fee grants access to both the art and history buildings, as well as the sculpture garden. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a mix of local history exhibits, covering topics like indigenous peoples, immigration, and the region's first airmail flight, alongside diverse art exhibitions that change regularly. Reddit

Yes, it's considered good for all ages, with some interactive elements and visually engaging displays that can appeal to children. The Snoopy connection is a plus for younger visitors. TikTok

Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring both buildings and the garden. If you're particularly interested in an exhibition, you might want to allocate more time. Reddit

Check the museum's schedule for any available guided tours or curator talks, which can offer deeper insights into the exhibits. Instagram

Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the artwork. Always check for signage. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The sculpture garden offers unique backdrops, and the architecture of the historic building is also photogenic. Rotating art exhibits often provide striking visual opportunities. TikTok

Flash photography is typically not permitted inside the galleries to protect the artwork. Be sure to check for specific signage regarding photography rules. TikTok

While not a dedicated Snoopy museum, you might find subtle nods or displays related to Charles M. Schulz that make for charming photos, especially for fans. TikTok

Yes, the lowrider exhibits are often visually stunning and popular for photos. Just be mindful of other visitors and any specific restrictions. Instagram

The art exhibitions are diverse and can include photography, painting, sculpture, and mixed media. The specific genres depend on the current shows. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Sonoma County is a great outing for families. While not a dedicated children's museum, its engaging history exhibits and rotating art displays offer something for various ages. The Snoopy-themed elements are a definite draw for younger visitors, adding a fun, familiar touch. TikTok The sculpture garden also provides a nice space for kids to explore outdoors. Consider checking their schedule for family-friendly events or workshops that might be happening during your visit. Instagram

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the Museum of Sonoma County offers a compelling experience with its regularly changing art exhibitions. These shows feature a diverse range of artists and mediums, providing fresh perspectives with each visit. Instagram Keep an eye on their website to see which exhibitions align with your interests, whether it's contemporary painting, photography, or sculpture. The opportunity to see both local and touring art collections makes it a worthwhile stop.

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Museum of Sonoma County's dedication to preserving and presenting the region's past. The exhibits in the historic building cover a broad spectrum, from the early days of indigenous peoples and settlers to the development of local industries and cultural milestones like the first airmail delivery. Reddit The detailed information and artifacts provide a solid understanding of Sonoma County's unique heritage.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Snoopy Connection

While the Museum of Sonoma County is not exclusively a 'Snoopy museum,' it holds a special place for fans of Charles M. Schulz and the Peanuts gang. You'll find references and displays that celebrate the beloved cartoonist and his iconic characters, often integrated within the broader context of Sonoma County's cultural landscape. TikTok+1 Visitors often appreciate these charming nods, which add a layer of nostalgia and fun to the museum experience. It's a delightful surprise for those who grew up with Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and Woodstock.

For those seeking a more dedicated Snoopy experience, the California Welcome Center in Santa Rosa's Historic Railroad Square offers a selection of Peanuts-themed souvenirs and information, making it a complementary stop for enthusiasts. TikTok This allows the Museum of Sonoma County to focus on its core mission of showcasing regional art and history, while still offering a touch of Schulz's magic.

Exploring the Dual Buildings

The Museum of Sonoma County is uniquely housed in two distinct buildings, offering a varied experience for visitors. The classic building, a former U.S. Postal Office, often features exhibits on Sonoma County's rich history. Here, you can delve into the stories of indigenous peoples, immigrant populations, and significant local events, such as the pioneering first airmail flight in 1911. Reddit Informative touch screens and audio systems enhance the historical narratives, making the past come alive.

Adjacent to the history building is the modern art gallery, which hosts a dynamic rotation of art exhibitions. These shows can range from contemporary local artists to significant touring collections, covering various mediums like painting, sculpture, and photography. Instagram The museum also boasts a sculpture garden, providing a tranquil outdoor space to appreciate art amidst nature. Reddit This dual-building setup ensures a comprehensive visit, blending the tangible history of the region with the vibrant, ever-changing world of art.

Community and Special Events

The Museum of Sonoma County actively engages with the community through a variety of special events and programming. These events often transform the museum into a lively hub, celebrating local culture and diverse artistic expressions. From lowrider showcases that highlight automotive artistry and cultural heritage Instagram to celebrations of African-American journeys through art,Instagram the museum provides platforms for a wide range of community stories.

These events are frequently free and open to the public, making the museum an accessible cultural resource for everyone. Instagram They offer unique opportunities to connect with local artists, performers, and community organizations, fostering a sense of shared experience. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance performances, food trucks, and family-friendly activities, creating a vibrant atmosphere that extends beyond the typical museum visit. Checking the museum's event calendar is highly recommended to catch these engaging happenings. Instagram

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