Kenwood Travel Guide

Explore the best of Kenwood, California with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover top tourist attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, and transportation options.


Introduction to Kenwood

Located in the heart of Sonoma County, Kenwood is a charming town that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty, Kenwood is the perfect destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and culinary delights.

List of Places to Visit in Kenwood

Kenwood has numerous attractions that cater to every interest. Here is a list of must-visit places during your stay:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jack London State Historic Park: This park showcases the life and works of the famous author and adventurer, Jack London. It features the author’s cottage, museum, and hiking trails.
  • Sonoma Valley Museum of Art: The museum features contemporary art from local and international artists.

Natural Attractions of Kenwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sugarloaf Ridge State Park: This park offers a network of hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding hillsides.
  • Annadel State Park: This park offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kenwood

Kenwood has plenty of trails that cater to all levels of experience. Here are some of the popular hiking/biking routes:

  • Sonoma Valley Regional Park: This park offers a network of trails that lead to scenic views of the valley.
  • Hood Mountain Regional Park: The park offers a challenging hike to the 2,734-foot summit of Hood Mountain.

Best Things to Do in Kenwood: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting: Kenwood is home to numerous vineyards and wineries that offer tours and tastings.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards and experience stunning views of the valley.
  • Spa Day: Many of the local spas offer massage and relaxation services.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kenwood

If you plan to stay for a week, here’s a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in Kenwood:

Day 1 Visit Jack London State Historic Park
Day 2 Wine tasting in local vineyards
Day 3 Hike Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Day 4 Hot air balloon ride over the vineyards
Day 5 Visit Sonoma Valley Museum of Art
Day 6 Relax at a local spa
Day 7 Tour local breweries and distilleries in Sonoma

Food and Drink Scene of Kenwood

Kenwood has a diverse food and drink scene that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Artisanal Cheese: Sonoma County is known for its award-winning artisan cheese.
  • Grilled Meat: Many of the local restaurants offer grilled meats that are locally sourced.
  • Seafood: Fresh seafood is a staple in many of the local restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Kenwood is home to numerous wineries that offer tastings of different varietals.
  • Beer: The local craft breweries offer an array of beer varieties.
  • Spirits: There are also local distilleries that produce small-batch spirits.

Where to Stay in Kenwood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kenwood offers plenty of lodging options that cater to every budget and preference. Some of the top accommodations in Kenwood include:

  • Kenwood Inn and Spa: This luxurious retreat offers a mix of elegance and relaxation.
  • Gaige House + Ryokan: This Japanese-style inn is situated amidst a serene garden and offers a peaceful stay.
  • KOA Wine Country: This campground offers tent and RV sites with amenities like a pool, hot tub, and dog park.

What to Buy in Kenwood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kenwood offers an array of local products that make for excellent souvenirs or gifts for loved ones. Here are some of the popular items:

  • Wine from the local vineyards and wineries
  • Artisanal cheese from local creameries
  • Olive oil from local groves

Local Culture and Customs of Kenwood

Kenwood has a laid-back and friendly culture. It’s important to respect the local customs and traditions, such as:

  • Tipping: Tipping 15-20% is customary for services provided.
  • Dress Code: Casual attire is generally accepted everywhere except for upscale restaurants, where business casual wear is preferred.

Best Time to Visit Kenwood

The best time to visit Kenwood is during the spring and fall, between March to May or September to November. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the vineyards are full of grapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kenwood

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Kenwood:

Do:

  • Explore the vineyards and wineries for wine tastings.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride for picturesque views of the valley.

Don’t:

  • Litter in natural areas.
  • Smoke in public areas.

Safety and Health

Here are some safety and health tips for a worry-free stay in Kenwood:

Safety in Kenwood

Kenwood is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, it’s always good to be cautious and take the necessary precautions, such as:

  • Locking your car doors and not leaving valuables inside.
  • Paying attention to your surroundings, especially when hiking in remote areas.

Health in Kenwood

Kenwood has a good healthcare system, with numerous hospitals and clinics in the nearby area.

Getting to Kenwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kenwood is easily accessible by air, bus, and car. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Kenwood

  • Sonoma County Airport (STS): This airport is located just 20 miles from Kenwood and serves domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Kenwood

  • Sonoma County Transit: The local bus service offers connections to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

  • Rental Car: There are numerous rental car options available at the airport for those who prefer to drive.
  • Taxi/Uber: Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available in the area.

How to Get Around in Kenwood

Kenwood is best explored on foot, bike, or car. Biking is a popular way to get around, and many of the roads have bike lanes. However, it’s important to be cautious when biking on the narrow, winding roads.

Where to Go Next from Kenwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kenwood is located near several other popular destinations in California. Here are some of the top nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Napa Valley: Known for its wine country, Napa Valley is just a short drive from Kenwood.
  • San Francisco: One of the most popular tourist destinations in the US, San Francisco is only an hour and a half drive away.

Conclusion

Kenwood is a hidden gem in Sonoma County, with its unparalleled natural beauty, rich culture, and incredible food and drink scene. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or a relaxing getaway, Kenwood has something to offer everyone.

Annadel State Park Annadel State Park