Railroad Square: Your Gateway to an Unforgettable Experience in Wine Country
Discover the unique charm of Railroad Square, a vibrant historic district located in the heart of Santa Rosa that offers a gateway to an unforgettable experience in Wine Country!
Explore an eclectic fusion of historic architecture, one-of-a-kind boutique shops, diverse dining options, and exciting entertainment—all conveniently within walking distance. With easy access via Highway 101 and the Sonoma-Marin SMART Train, Railroad Square is the perfect home base for visiting the world-class wineries of Sonoma, Healdsburg, Dry Creek, Russian River, and beyond.
Unwind in Style: Find the Perfect Wine Country Hotel for Your Stay
Whether you’re here for the weekend or an extended adventure, Railroad Square offers a variety of hotels within walking distance of the district and downtown Santa Rosa. From the luxurious accommodations at the Hyatt to the boutique experience at Hotel La Rose, there’s something for everyone. The Courtyard Marriot and AC Marriot are also fabulous options for those looking for a comfortable stay with modern amenities.
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Fun for the Whole Family: Dining, Shopping, Entertainment & Events
Railroad Square is the ideal blend of old-world charm and hip modern aesthetic, offering visitors an unparalleled shopping experience. For those who love the thrill of treasure hunting, the district is brimming with antique, vintage clothing, and thrift stores. Don’t forget to check out the wide variety of specialty shops featuring everything from home furnishings, bicycles, costumes, and comic books to unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else.
When it comes to dining, Railroad Square offers a wide range of options guaranteed to please every palate. Enjoy locally made ice cream, cozy cafes, farm-to-table fare, authentic Thai food, classic French cuisine, and so much more.
However, Railroad Square isn’t just about shopping and dining. We also host a variety of events and entertainment options that are perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. From holiday carriage rides and live theater to the Classic Car Display and RRSQ Music Festival, there’s always something exciting happening in Railroad Square. Visit our online event calendar or stop by the Visitor’s Center to discover the latest activities.
Become Immersed in Railroad Square’s Rich History
Railroad Square is honored to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The district dates back to the early 1900s, when many Italian families settled in the area, drawn to Sonoma County for its beauty and climate. The area around the train depot soon became known as “Little Italy.”
The Hotel La Rose, Western Hotel, and Northwestern Pacific Railroad Depot were all built during this time, along with the impressive basalt buildings that remain the architectural centerpieces today. As Sonoma County was the 11th in the nation for agricultural production, Railroad Square was the County’s agricultural hub during the golden years, and hundreds of Italian families employed by nearby factories made their homes in the West End Preservation District.
Easy Access to the Best Activities in the Wine Country
In addition to wineries, shopping, dining, and entertainment Railroad Square also offers easy access to some of the best activities in Wine Country. Visit craft breweries, go cycling through rural roads or local trails, hike amongst the redwoods, paddle down the Russian River, or head to the Pacific coast. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or want to explore more of the region, Railroad Square is the perfect home base. Stop by the Visitor Center for more information and start planning an unforgettable Wine Country adventure today!
