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Santa Rosa is a charming Californian destination that has a laid-back atmosphere and a rich history. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of big city life and experience the natural beauty of Northern California.
After a busy day of exploring, I recommend staying in one of the following boutique hotels for a truly unique and authentic experience.
You can take a stroll through the historic Railroad Square, where you’ll find unique shops and delicious restaurants. Or check out the local wineries – Sonoma County is known for its world-class wines.
In addition to its wineries and farm-to-table restaurants, Santa Rosa is also home to several museums and galleries that showcase local art and culture.
Boutique Hotels in Santa Rosa
You’ll find several cool neighbourhoods with unique vibes as you explore Santa Rosa. It’s worth thinking about which neighbourhood to stay in, as each has unique charm and attractions.
Railroad Square and the West End are two neighbourhoods that stand out for their independent stores, galleries, cafes, and green spaces.
In Railroad Square, you can explore the area’s history while enjoying its vibrant arts scene. You’ll find antique stores, art galleries, craft shops, and some fantastic cafes and restaurants. You can also take a stroll through the beautiful Courthouse Square or take a tour of the historic railroad depot.
The West End is another great neighbourhood that has plenty of unique experiences. It’s home to some of Santa Rosa’s best cafes, bars, great independent stores, and galleries. You can also enjoy a walk or a bike ride along the Prince Memorial Greenway, a beautiful park that runs through the area.
If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Santa Rosa, I recommend checking out the West End. It has a lively atmosphere and is conveniently located near many of the city’s top attractions.
Top Pick
Hotel E
Address: 37 Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa, CA
Location: Near Railroad Square
Nestled in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa, Hotel E is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a luxurious and convenient getaway. Set within a stunning beaux-arts building, this historic hotel offers a range of beautifully appointed rooms, each featuring luxurious amenities and charming period details. Hotel E puts you within easy reach of the neaby wine country and local dining and nightlife. Take advantage of the hotel’s fantastic features, including a fitness center, outdoor pool, hot tub, and bike rentals, and make the most of your stay in Santa Rosa.
Features:
- Unique decor and design.
- Pets are allowed.
- Stunning lobby, lounge and bar areas.
- Ideal central Santa Rosa location.
Pros: Convenient downtown location, luxurious amenities, charming period details, knowledgeable staff for tour and tasting recommendations.
Cons: Limited parking options.
Check AvailabilityWhile I believe my top pick for boutique hotels in Santa Rosa is truly exceptional, I understand that everyone has different preferences when it comes to their travel accommodations.
That’s why I’ve also recommended a couple of other boutique hotels that you might like to consider for your upcoming trip.
Each of these hotels has its unique charm and appeal, and I’m confident that you’ll find the perfect fit for your travel style and budget.
So, take a look at all of your options, weigh the pros and cons of each, and choose the hotel that speaks to you.
Next Best
Art House Hotel
Address: 620 7th Street, Santa Rosa, CA
Location: Cherry Street Historic District
Art House Hotel is a stylish and convenient choice for your next trip to Santa Rosa. The spacious and well-appointed rooms provide a peaceful, relaxing retreat just steps from downtown. The hotel’s prime location offers easy access to the city’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife and Sonoma County’s wineries, breweries, redwoods, and coastline. Art House Hotel is the perfect home base for your next adventure.
Eco-Friendly Hotel
If you’re interested in staying in a sustainable or eco-friendly hotel, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, look for a hotel with a clear and well-defined sustainability policy, with specific goals and measures to reduce its environmental impact.
Next, consider the hotel’s location and surroundings – a hotel that’s situated in a natural setting or near public transportation will typically have a lower environmental footprint.
Finally, pay attention to the hotel’s energy and water usage, waste reduction efforts, and use of environmentally friendly products and materials.
The following hotel is working towards sustainability and is a great option if you want to lower your travel impact.
Vintners Resort
Address: 4350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Location: Northwest Santa Rosa
Situated in the heart of Sonoma wine country, Vintners Resort is a luxury boutique hotel that prides itself on its sustainability initiatives. Upon arrival, guests can enjoy a free bottle of wine and take in the stunning vineyard views from their private balcony or patio. The resort offers a range of amenities, including a bocce ball court, fitness and business facilities, and on-site dining at John Ash & Co, which sources its ingredients locally and uses organic produce. Additionally, Vintners Resort offsets a portion of its carbon footprint and uses 100% renewable electricity throughout the property.
Historic Hotel
If you’re interested in staying in a historic hotel, keep a few key things in mind. First, pay attention to the building’s age and architectural style – you’ll want to choose a hotel with a rich and interesting history and well-preserved over the years.
Next, look for a hotel that has retained some of its original period features and decor – this will help transport you back in time and enhance your overall experience.
Finally, consider the location and surroundings – a historic hotel that’s situated in a district with plenty of other historic buildings and landmarks will provide an even richer sense of place and history.
My next pick is a good option if you’d like to stay at an independent, historic hotel.
Hotel La Rose
Address: 308 Wilson Street , Santa Rosa, California
Location: Downtown Santa Rosa
Hotel La Rose is a historic boutique hotel that offers a charming and comfortable stay in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa. The hotel’s historic building provides a beautiful and atmospheric setting, and guests can enjoy spacious, spotless rooms with very comfortable beds. The hotel’s convenient location puts you close to excellent restaurants, coffee shops, shopping, and attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring Santa Rosa and the surrounding counties. The hotel’s Carriage House also offers beautiful and spacious rooms with balconies and tubs, and the courtyard provides a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Cool and Unique Hotel
When looking for a cool and unique boutique hotel, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, consider the location – you’ll want to choose a hotel that’s situated in a neighbourhood that appeals to you and is conveniently located near the attractions you want to see. See below to get an idea of the different neighbourhoods in Santa Rosa.
Next, think about the hotel’s overall style and aesthetic – you’ll want to find a hotel decorated in a way that speaks to your tastes and preferences.
Finally, pay attention to the amenities offered – look for a hotel that provides the comforts and conveniences you need to feel at home while you’re away.
Wyndham Santa Rosa Sonoma
Address: 111 Commercial Court, Santa Rosa, CA
Location: South of Downtown
Wyndham Santa Rosa Sonoma is a comfortable hotel located in downtown Santa Rosa. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning and make use of amenities such as an outdoor pool and business centre. The hotel is pet-friendly, with no additional fees. Its prime location provides easy access to the Sonoma Wine Country and local attractions like the Charles M Schulz Museum and Redwood Empire Ice Arena.
Where to Stay in Santa Rosa
When deciding where to stay in Santa Rosa, consider your personal preferences and interests, as each neighbourhood has its unique appeal. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a peaceful retreat, there’s a neighbourhood that’s perfect for you.
- Railroad Square: A charming central district with a rich history, antique stores, art galleries, and craft shops. You can enjoy strolling through the beautiful Courthouse Square or take a tour of the historic railroad depot.
- West End: A lively neighbourhood with some of Santa Rosa’s best cafes and bars, independent stores, and galleries. You can enjoy a walk or a bike ride along the Prince Memorial Greenway, a beautiful park that runs through the neighbourhood.
- Downtown Santa Rosa: A bustling area with an abundance of restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping options. You can explore the nearby museums and galleries or take a stroll through Old Courthouse Square.
- Fountaingrove: A scenic area located on the eastern side of Santa Rosa, offering beautiful views of the city and the surrounding mountains. You can explore nearby wineries or take a hike in the stunning Foothill Regional Park.
- Rincon Valley: One of the most peaceful neighbourhoods in Santa Rosa, located on the city’s northeast side, with plenty of green spaces and parks. You can enjoy a walk or a bike ride along the Joe Rodota Trail or explore nearby Spring Lake Park.
- Cherry Street Historic District: A quaint and charming district with beautiful historic homes and buildings. You can explore the historic Cherry Street Historic District Walking Tour, which features some of the area’s most beautiful homes and architecture.
- Northwest Santa Rosa: A diverse neighbourhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. You can enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops or take a stroll through the beautiful Howarth Park and Spring Lake Regional Park.
You might be interested in checking out my guide to the best places to visit in California, which features a handpicked selection of the most scenic and culturally rich destinations that the Golden State has to offer, from national parks and beaches to vibrant cities and charming towns, with practical tips and personal recommendations to help you make the most of your trip.
If you’re planning a trip to Santa Rosa, you should definitely check out Visit Santa Rosa, as it is incredibly helpful for finding information about the city, including things to do, places to stay, and events that are happening during your visit.
Responsible Travel Tips
Many of us are increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability. Here are a few ideas on how we can travel more responsibly in Santa Rosa.
When travelling to Santa Rosa, you can be more responsible and sustainable in several ways.
Start by supporting the local community – visit local shops, farmers’ markets, and restaurants that source their ingredients locally.
To minimise food waste, bring your reusable container to take leftovers home or eat them on the go. Consider sustainable transport options like biking, walking or taking public transportation, which is available throughout the city.
To support renewable energy, stay at a sustainable hotel like Vintners Resort that uses 100% renewable electricity.
Finally, opt for a sustainable diet by trying local vegetarian and vegan restaurants, like the Seed on 5th, which offers delicious plant-based meals made from locally sourced ingredients.
If you need to fly, consider purchasing carbon offsets to help reduce the environmental impact of your travel. But generally, offsets have been shown to be ineffective. The best option is to avoid flying altogether.
Summary
When it comes to finding the perfect boutique hotel in Santa Rosa, the key is to do your research and consider your individual needs and preferences. You might be looking for a historic hotel with plenty of charm or a sustainable hotel that prioritises eco-friendliness. Either way, there’s a boutique hotel in Santa Rosa that’s right for you.
Beyond your choice of accommodations, Santa Rosa is a wonderful destination that offers something for every type of traveller. From exploring the local arts and culture scene to enjoying some of the world’s best wine and cuisine, there’s never a dull moment in this beautiful part of California.
If you have questions or want to leave a hotel review, please do so in the comments.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels in Santa Rosa, California. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
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