Sonoma County, County in Northern California, United States.
Description
Sonoma County is an administrative division in northern California, reaching from the Pacific coast to inland valleys and hills. The territory covers about 4,579 square kilometers (1,768 square miles) with nine incorporated cities, including Santa Rosa as the largest community and seat of government.
History
The county formed in 1850 as one of California's original counties after the state joined the Union. Santa Rosa became the administrative seat in 1854 and developed into the regional center.
Culture
The name comes from Pueblo de Sonoma, a former mission settlement at the northern end of California's mission trail. Many places carry Spanish names that reflect the early settlement period and remain in everyday use.
Practical
A public bus network connects all nine cities and many smaller communities, with Santa Rosa serving as a central hub. Coastal areas tend to be cooler and foggier than inland valleys, so bringing layered clothing is advisable.
Did you know?
The region hosts several geothermal power plants that tap into natural underground steam to generate electricity. These facilities sit in the Mayacamas mountain range and supply power to surrounding communities.
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Bohemian Grove
7.9 km
The French Laundry
50.7 km
Fort Ross
27.3 km
Sonoma Raceway
56.8 km
Bodega Bay
27.1 km
Chateau Montelena
30.7 kmRunning Fence
21.4 km
Jack London State Historic Park
37.6 km
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
7.6 km
Goat Rock Beach
18.5 km
Salt Point State Park
35.2 km
East Bay Walls
34 km
Petrified Forest
25.9 km
Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center
17.9 km
Culinary Institute of America at Greystone
38.9 km
Buena Vista Winery
50.1 km
Olompali State Historic Park
50.4 km
Safari West
21.1 km
Wolf House
38.1 km
Sonoma Developmental Center
40.2 km
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
38.3 km
McDonald Mansion
20.8 km
Cobb Mountain
37 km
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
32.6 km
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
36.3 km
Sonoma Coast State Park
20.1 km
Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary
31.6 km
San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge
61.8 km
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