Healdsburg sits at the intersection of three of Sonoma’s most renowned wine valleys — Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River — and the relaxed, agricultural nature of the wine industry permeates every aspect of the area. A beloved getaway for Bay Area wine lovers and tourists alike, the town has retained its small-town charm. Family-owned farms pride themselves on being so and small businesses line the streets of the dense downtown area. Healdsburg is currently seeing an explosion of new tasting rooms, dining experiences and places to shop — and while you are guaranteed to find new favorites with every visit, here is a short list of places we have earmarked as must-visits for spring.
Alley 6 Distillery
1401 Grove Street, Ste. D
In a town known for its wine, Alley 6 makes a great case for small batch spirits. With all production done on-site at the distillery, a visit is more than a tasting; it is a learning experience. A great stop for whiskey, gin and brandy connoisseurs.
259 Center Street
This outpost of the San Francisco location is a favorite for chic home wares and unique gifts. From luxe pajamas to agate cheese knives and the guest room luggage rack you have been searching everywhere for — this store has it all.
14210 Bacchus Landing Way
This recently opened collection of five boutique wineries is housed in an open, Spanish-style setting flooded with light and boasting plenty of courtyard space, green lawns and picnic tables — so you can stay awhile (trust us, you’ll want to). Don’t miss live music on Saturday afternoons and family-friendly food trucks on Sunday.
107 Plaza Street
Whether you are shopping for your little one or a gift for someone else’s, this store has everything you will ever need. Here you will find adorably hip rompers, knits and two-piece sets in soothing earth tones that mama and baby will both love.
110 Matheson Street
This clothing store specializes in luxe basics and curated staples for the modern man. With cotton button-downs and leather shoes and bags as well as Blind Barber grooming items, this is one store he will look forward to returning to again and again.
322 Center Street
Situated on a corner off the main square, Gathered is deceptively small from the outside — but once you enter and wind up a walkway you will find a treasure trove of boho-style women’s clothing, accessories and home wares. The collection of caftans and cookbooks alone is worth the stop.
1474 Alexander Valley Road
Jordan, which is turning 50 this year, not only makes fantastic wine, but also has a ton of family-friendly activities. This month don’t miss the much-anticipated release day event on April 30. Expect a walk-around tasting, hors d’oeuvres, lawn games and food stations. Nature lovers won’t want to skip the 4-mile Earth Week Nature Hike (April 22–24).
353 Healdsburg Avenue
This women’s clothing boutique is ideal for shoppers who love the L.A. vibe. Think chunky sweaters, puffy-sleeved crop tops, midi dresses and delicate statement jewelry. It’s nearly impossible to not find something you can’t live without here.
25 North Street
Opening this month, Little Saint is a collaboration between SingleThread owners Kyle and Katina Connaughton, Jeff and Laurie Ubben, Jenny Hess and designer Ken Fulk. The new space will have a plant-based full-service restaurant, quick-service cafe and wine shop as well as retail. Watch out, Healdsburg, something big is coming your way.
308 B Center Street
If you love Sonoma Coast chardonnay and pinot noir, then look no further — this is going to be your new favorite label. Recently opened and irresistibly inviting, its the brainchild of winemakers who are young, talented and extremely enthusiastic, which all comes through in these delightful wines. Don’t miss out on the expertly paired nibbles by Little Saint.
100 Montage Way
With all the wine tasting, you’ll want to make a weekend of it and the Montage Healdsburg is the ideal respite: suites with outdoor showers and firepits on the balcony, a delectable restaurant overlooking the estate and a top-notch spa. Wine buffs will want to take the 100 Point Wine Tour (book directly with the hotel). Bringing the kids? No problem — there is a program for them that will make their stay as enjoyable as the adults’.
149 Healdsburg Avenue
This under-the-radar bakery and coffee shop is not directly on the square, but definitely worth a visit (just bring your patience: there is always a line). Loaves, croissants, bagels, cookies, pies, cakes — it’s a gluten-lover’s paradise. For something a little more substantial try their Troubadour Bread & Sandwiches, which is not too far away. You will leave happy!
106 Matheson Street
Chef Dustin Valette (known for his other local favorite, Valette) has just opened what is sure to be the destination-dining experience everyone will be scampering to get a reservation for. The space is scattered across three levels (including a rooftop and an outdoor dining area). Expect a fine dining eatery, sushi kitchen, self-serve wine wall and a cocktail lounge made for watching sunsets.
