Petaluma

 

While Petaluma was once considered little more than farmland, in recent years, this community has taken advantage of its bucolic beauty, prime location, and historic city center, creating what is now one of the most desirable neighborhoods in California and one of the best places to live in the United States. 

 

Originally incorporated in 1858, Petaluma is one of the oldest towns in the area. The center of town and surrounding areas are still filled with stunning buildings and picturesque sites that harken back to the community’s beginnings, and growth control measures have been put in place in order to ensure the neighborhood maintains the small-town feel it’s known for without hindering thriving local businesses.

 

Sonoma is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful areas in California, and Petaluma is a prime example of why. This idyllic community is set right alongside the magnificent Petaluma River, and beautiful waterfront scenery can be found throughout the city. Combined with the pastoral countryside surrounding the town, and you have the magazine-worthy setting this community is known for.  

 

Petaluma is one of the most desirable communities in Sonoma. As a result, the area is also one of the most affluent, with the majority of residents earning well over the national average annual household income. Many residents work in white-collar, professional positions in executive or managerial roles. While many take advantage of the community’s proximity to San Francisco, there are also a number of work opportunities within the town itself and the surrounding areas. 

 

Petaluma residents have a deep appreciation for the beautiful land around them, with most preferring to lead a healthier, more outdoorsy lifestyle. You’ll find people walking and biking around the community, and some of the busiest spots in town are parks and recreational areas.

 

The dining scene in Petaluma is unarguably one of the best in the state, with numerous eclectic and exciting restaurants and eateries throughout the city. Della Fattoria is an incomparable local favorite. This bakery and restaurant offers some of the best baked goods, salads, sandwiches, and mimosas in California. 

 

Cowgirl Creamery has been making exceptional cheeses since they opened in 1997. Filled with passion and dedication for producing great cheese from local dairy sources, this one-of-a-kind creamery has an array of cheeses for guests to enjoy, highlighting the plentifulness of the surrounding area. 

 

The Block Petaluma is another favorite local hotspot. A new and innovative idea, this dedicated food park is home to a variety of sensational local food trucks that change on a daily basis. With everything from pizza to barbecue and tacos, there’s something for everyone at this outstanding location. Guests can also choose from over 30 beers on tap as well as numerous cocktails and specialty drinks in the park’s bar area. 

 

Mystic Theatre is a great place to grab a drink, a bite to eat, and enjoy some of the best live music around. Hosting both local and nationally recognized artists, this beautiful theater is undoubtedly one of the most popular spots in town.

 

In addition to the outstanding entertainment and dining scene as well as the beautiful outdoor recreational activities found in town, there are a number of annual events held throughout the year for residents to enjoy. The Butter & Egg Days Parade and Festival is a unique and truly special event with amazing live music, world-class vendors, and some of the best entertainment around. Originally started in the early 1900s in order to promote the community’s rich agricultural heritage, this festival is now a great way for local families to come together and celebrate the abundance around them. 

 

Lagunitas Beer Circus is another wildly popular annual event. This one-of-a-kind event is put on by the Lagunitas Brewing Company every year as a way to showcase their delectable brews as well as bring together some of the area’s best aerialists, circus acts, musicians, and more. Music enthusiasts will love the annual Petaluma Music Festival. With the goal of keeping music alive in schools, this festival brings together numerous bands and artists on four different stages and designated areas, as well as great food vendors, local beers, and more.   

 

Rivertown Revival is another fantastic event put on in order to help showcase and promote the beautiful Petaluma River and celebrate all the wonder it has brought to the local area. A weekend filled with fantastic vendors, delectable food, and great entertainment, this self-described hootenanny is fun for the whole town.