18 Fun Things to Do With Kids in Sonoma County This Summer
Sonoma County, Marin's neighbor to the north, has so much to offer families, especially during the summer! From beautiful beaches and swimming spots to farms, parks, museums, and unique family attractions, there's so much to do with kids in Sonoma County that you'll probably have to make several trips this summer.
Petaluma
The Petaluma Fair
The Petaluma Fair (formerly the Sonoma-Marin Fair) is a favorite North Bay summer tradition! Held June 18–21, 2026, the fair features carnival rides, live entertainment, delicious food, livestock exhibits, and plenty of activities for kids. Little ones can enjoy the dedicated children's carnival, while older kids and teens can check out the bigger rides and attractions.
American Made Miniatures Farm Sanctuary
Meet rescued animals at this charming farm sanctuary in the rolling hills east of Petaluma! On a guided tour, families can get to know guinea pigs, sheep, pigs, horses, emus, donkeys, and even a zebra. Kids will love learning about the animals and their stories, with opportunities to pet and feed some of the residents. Advance reservations are required.
Santa Rosa
Snoopy's Home Ice and the Charles M. Schulz Museum
Cool off on a hot summer day with a family ice skating outing at Snoopy's Home Ice! Founded by Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz in 1969, this beloved Santa Rosa rink offers public skating, beginner-friendly programs, and a cozy café serving snacks and delicious hot chocolate.
Next door, the Charles M. Schulz Museum celebrates the famous cartoonist and his Peanuts characters through rotating exhibits, hands-on activities, and classic animated specials. Don't forget to stop by Snoopy's Gallery and Gift Shop for Peanuts gifts and memorabilia!
Children's Museum of Sonoma County
The Children's Museum of Sonoma County is a fantastic destination for younger kids, with interactive exhibits designed to encourage creativity, curiosity, and imaginative play. Children can explore science and technology, create art, and enjoy indoor and outdoor play areas, including the popular Wild Zone. The museum also offers special family programs and events throughout the year.
Safari West
Take the family on an African-style safari without leaving Sonoma County! Safari West, a 400-acre wildlife preserve near Santa Rosa, offers guided adventures where visitors can see giraffes, zebras, rhinos, cheetahs, antelope, and other fascinating animals. For an extra-special experience, families can even spend the night in one of the preserve's safari-style tent cabins.
Howarth Park
Santa Rosa's Howarth Park is one of our favorite places for a family outing! In addition to playgrounds and picnic areas, this sprawling park offers a miniature train, carousel, animal barn, and other kid-friendly attractions. Families can also rent a paddleboat, canoe, or sailboat and explore beautiful Lake Ralphine.
Spring Lake Water Park
Beat the summer heat at Spring Lake Regional Park's swimming lagoon and water park! Kids and grownups can splash, climb, bounce, and slide on floating water attractions, including climbing walls, slides, and inflatable play structures. It's a fun way to spend a sunny summer day in Santa Rosa.
Pacific Coast Air Museum
Young aviation enthusiasts will love exploring the Pacific Coast Air Museum at the Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport! Discover an impressive collection of historic aircraft and learn about aviation history. The museum also hosts special open-cockpit events when visitors can climb aboard select aircraft.
Don't miss Hot Dog Thursdays, offered on the first Thursday of the month from April through October, with a special admission and lunch deal.
Sebastopol
U-Pick Organic Fruit
Rural Sebastopol is home to the best u-pick experiences in the North Bay! Visit Boring Farm throughout late spring and summer for delicious organic raspberries, including thornless varieties that are easy for little ones to pick. Summertime also means a trip to Duckworth Family Farm and their incredible u-pick blueberry experience — don't miss the homemade blueberry ice cream and baked treats. In August, pick your own organic Honeycrisp apples at Gold Ridge Organic Farms and sample some of their heirloom apples or amazing olive oil while you're there.
The Gravenstein Apple Fair
Celebrate Sonoma County's famous Gravenstein apples at this beloved annual fair in Sebastopol! Taking place August 8–9, 2026, at Ragle Ranch Regional Park, the fair features live music, delicious local food, agricultural exhibits, and family-friendly activities. It's a wonderful way to celebrate Sonoma County's farming traditions while enjoying a fun summer weekend.
Goatlandia Farm Animal Sanctuary
A visit to Goatlandia Farm Animal Sanctuary in Sebastopol is always fun for all ages! Take a guided tour and meet rescued goats, pigs, horses, peacocks, and other farm animals while learning about their care and stories. The sanctuary also offers vegan picnic lunch options and a gift shop with animal-themed merchandise.
Sonoma and the Valley of the Moon
Sonoma TrainTown
All aboard for family fun at Sonoma TrainTown! This beloved miniature railroad has been entertaining Bay Area families for generations. Climb aboard a miniature steam or diesel train for a scenic ride that includes a stop at a little Old West town and petting zoo. TrainTown also features a carousel, Ferris wheel, and other rides perfect for younger children.
Sonoma Plaza
Historic Sonoma Plaza is a wonderful place to spend a summer afternoon with the family! Pack a picnic, let the kids play at one of the playgrounds, and explore the shops and attractions surrounding the plaza.
Nearby Sonoma State Historic Park offers opportunities to learn about California history at Mission San Francisco Solano and the historic barracks. Families can also enjoy the popular Sonoma Tuesday Night Market, held from May through August, 5–8 pm.
Morton's Warm Springs
Looking for a place to swim and relax on a warm summer day? Morton's Warm Springs, near Kenwood, has been a favorite family destination for generations. Enjoy natural mineral swimming pools, a baby pool, creek, picnic areas, spacious lawns, and plenty of room for outdoor play. There's also an organic café, and seasonal memberships are available for families planning multiple visits.
Jack London State Historic Park
Famed writer Jack London built his sprawling Beauty Ranch near the town of Glen Ellen. Today it's Jack London State Historic Park, one of our favorite places to visit in the Bay Area. Hike to the pond, visit the Pig Palace and the ruins of London's Wolf House mansion, and explore the cottage where the writer worked and died exactly 100 years ago. The park also offers a calendar of special events including guided hikes and concerts.
Sonoma Botanical Garden, Spirit Guides
Stroll the path and experience these brightly colored, richly patterned sculptures by artists Jacobo and María Ángeles. Inspired by the Zapotec calendar, the 8 larger-than-life sculptures on view depict imaginary hybrid animals that serve as spirit guides and astrological embodiments of human character. They are pretty spectacular to see in person. The Spirit Guides exhibition is now on display until September 7, 2026.
Guerneville and the Russian River
Johnson's Beach
Spend a relaxing summer day at Johnson's Beach along the Russian River in Guerneville! This classic summer destination is perfect for swimming, lounging by the water, and enjoying a picnic with the family. Rent an umbrella, inner tubes, kayaks, canoes, or paddleboats, and enjoy a day of old-fashioned summer fun. Food and drinks are also available for purchase.
Armstrong Redwoods
Escape the summer heat with a peaceful walk among towering redwoods at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Preserve near Guerneville. Families can explore easy walking trails, admire magnificent old-growth coast redwoods, and learn about the forest at the visitor center. It's a wonderful alternative to the crowds at Muir Woods!
Admission is free for visitors entering on foot or by bicycle; vehicle parking fees apply.
Looking for more family fun? Sonoma County is full of wonderful places to explore with kids, from outdoor adventures and swimming spots to family-friendly attractions and summer events. Whether you're planning a day trip from Marin County or a weekend getaway, there's always something fun to discover!
Tip: Hours, admission prices, and seasonal activities may change, so check each attraction's website before heading out.
