Historic Downtown

Founded in 1857 by Harmon Heald, this is true small town America and The Plaza is where you will find the pulse of the town. As much as it is actually an incorporated city of nearly 12,000 people, it really feels like a "town". Healdsburg is wine central. There are 3 world famous viticulture regions that come together here: Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley & the Russian River Valley which draws both locals and tourists to the area. You can explore by bike or car throughout these valleys and still be within 5-30 minutes of the town or you put on your walking shoes and roam about The Plaza area taking in the various tasting rooms, restaurants, galleries & stores. The lodging has become first class since adding the Healdsburg Hotel and H2 (the greener, more modern, not so little sister hotel) as well as a B&B like the Haydon House.

Healdsburg offers exceptional foodie access. One of our favorites is Bistro Ralph's. They are on the North side of the Plaza. It is small like most restaurants here but big in what it delivers. Try their Chicken Paillard (it's amazing) and they are famous for the Martini (which is not so "tini"). If you want an appetizer, I suggest the Szechuan Calamari and don't forget to dip their special bread cubes in the sauce that accompanies the calamari. The bar scene is alive with all the visitors each week streaming from San Francisco or around the world, they all find their way here. SpoonBar is located at H2 on Healdsburg Ave. They make many exceptional drinks, try the Corpse Revival #2 - it is a gin drink (even if you don't like gin) that looks like a lemon drop but has, at least in my estimation, a supple fennel/lemony (not sweet like the lemon drop drink) flavor that you will simply say "how about one for my friends as well". You could also bring your dog here as they can stand at attention with you and straddle the outdoors. A block away is another favorite, Barn Diva. This place has a lot more space and is completely different, but still exceptional atmosphere. With its' setting amongst market lights and old world outdoor dining, it also feels very new and alive...we had a 40th birthday there for a friend - enough said. If you need a wind down, catch a movie at The Raven Theater or relax in the Plaza - they just redid it after 150 years of existence.