Visit History in Sonoma County

Sonoma County’s landscape is as rich in history as it is in natural beauty. From its Indigenous roots and Spanish colonial heritage to its agricultural traditions and vibrant artistic communities, every corner of the county holds a story worth discovering. Visitors can experience this layered past through the many museums, parks, landmarks, and cultural centers that preserve and interpret the region’s history.

For residents, exploring Sonoma County’s historical resources offers an opportunity to see familiar places in a new light — to walk the same paths as those who shaped the communities we live in today. From the adobe buildings of Petaluma and the mission plaza of Sonoma to the vineyards of the Russian River Valley and the preserved mining town of Cloverdale, each site reveals a different chapter of the county’s development. For visitors, it’s an invitation to experience this diverse heritage through its historic towns, distinctive architecture, and the many stories that continue to define the region.

Whether you’re interested in learning about early settlements, tracing local family histories, or simply enjoying a scenic drive through sites of historical significance, Sonoma County offers countless ways to connect with its past. Begin your journey below through our listings of historical and cultural organizations, notable sites, and markers that together tell the story of this remarkable place.