Skip to main content
DESTINATION

Sonoma

Settlers, lured to the area by the promise of free land, later were denied the opportunity to own property. Faced with the threat of deportation, their dissatisfaction came to a climax on June 14, 1846, when the group, calling themselves Osos (bears), arrested Vallejo at his home. They proclaimed California a republic and Sonoma its capital.

The Bear Flag—fashioned from unbleached muslin, a red petticoat and a crude berry-stained picture of a bear—was raised in Sonoma Plaza. The revolt was short-lived, however; on July 9 the flag was replaced by the Stars and Stripes. In 1911 the State Legislature adopted the Bear Flag as the state flag.

Depot Park Museum, in the original town depot on 1st Street W., preserves the history of the California Republic through displays of 19th-century clothing, railroad artifacts and furniture; phone (707) 938-1762.

Visitor Centers

Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau 453 1st St. E. Sonoma, CA 95476. Phone:(707)996-1090 or (866)996-1090

Things to Do

Cornerstone Sonoma

Sonoma State Historic Park

Sonoma TrainTown

Sonoma Valley Museum of Art

Recreational Activities

Bicycling

Sonoma Adventures

WINERIES

Bartholomew Estate Winery

Buena Vista Winery

Cline Family Cellars

Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery

Viansa Sonoma

More Articles

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

BACK TO TOP