From U.S. 101, take the Central Healdsburg exit. June weather is ideal, with warm days (around 74°) and cool nights (to 49°). Bring some warm clothes, since mornings and evenings are often foggy.
For more information, contact the Healdsburg Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau (707/433-6935 or www.sonomacounty.com).
Wineries
With more than 60 wineries within a 20-minute radius of Healdsburg, deciding where to go can be overwhelming. Below are a few favorites. For more on wineries, contact the Sonoma County Wineries Association (707/586-3795).
Hanna Winery. Family winery, founded by a cardiac surgeon from San Francisco and now managed by his daughter, Christine Hanna. Phenomenal views from the tasting room; excellent Sauvignon Blanc. 9280 State 128; (707) 431-4310.
J Wine Company. Best known for its sparkling wine, J also produces great Pinot Noir. At this elegant new tasting room, wines are matched with mouthwatering appetizers. Tastings from $5. 11447 Old Redwood Hwy.; (888) 594-6326.
Roshambo Winery. The spectacular concrete-and-glass design alone makes this tasting room worth a visit. Closed Tue-Wed. 3000 Westside Rd.; (707) 431-2051.
Stryker Sonoma. Big, spicy Zinfandel; great views from the airy tasting room. Closed Sat-Wed. 5110 State 128; (707) 433-1944.
Dining
Dry Creek Kitchen. Don't miss the walk-up window around the corner from the dining room; here at the deli you can buy gourmet products as well as sandwiches and snacks. 317 Healdsburg Ave.; (707) 431-0330.
Manzanita. It's hard to go wrong at this high-style newcomer: Try any of the daily changing wood-fired pizzas or the grilled rabbit stuffed with polenta ― and save room for dessert. Closed Mon-Tue. 336 Healdsburg; (707) 433-8111.
Ravenous. Simple but delicious seasonal food, generous portions, and an intimate, inviting atmosphere make this the local favorite, hands down. The original eight-table restaurant, called Ravenette, now serves lunch. Both closed Mon-Tue. Ravenous: 420 Center St.; (707) 431-1302. Ravenette: 117 North St.; (707) 431-1770.
Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar. Casual restaurant and wine bar with straightforward but tasty blue plate-style dishes that go well with Zinfandel. Closed Tue-Wed. 344 Center; (707) 473-0946.
Foodies' favorites
The Cheese Course. Local artisan and imported cheeses. Ask about scheduled cheese tastings and classes. Closed Tue. 423 Center; (707) 433-4998.
Downtown Bakery & Creamery. Head baker and owner Kathleen Stewart is a Chez Panisse disciple. 308-A Center; (707) 431-2719.
Flying Goat Coffee. Fondly referred to as "the Goat" by locals. Excellent coffee and pastries; hip, modern design. 324 Center; (707) 433-3599.
Jimtown Store. Old-fashioned country store with excellent deli foods. Convenient stop on your way to Alexander Valley wineries. 6706 State 128; (707) 433-1212.
Lodging
Grape Leaf Inn. Restored 102-year-old Queen Anne has 12 rooms, 5 with fireplaces. An elaborate breakfast is served on china and white linen tablecloths; there's also nightly wine tasting. From $185. 539 Johnson St.; (707) 433-8140.
Hotel Duchamp. Witty, whimsical, and ultramodern art-themed villas―you might even find neon lips over your fireplace. Extras: a wonderful, wholesome breakfast (included) and a lap pool. From $225. 421 Foss St.; (800) 431-9341, (707) 431-1300.
Hotel Healdsburg. This newcomer has 55 rooms; request one that faces the town plaza. Breakfast is included. From $205. 25 Matheson St.; (800) 889-7188, (707) 431-2800.
