One Day in Healdsburg

When driving north on HIghway 101 from San Francisco, pay attention. If you blink or look away for just a second, you might miss the sleepy, artsy little wine town of Healdsburg. Located just over 60 miles from San Francisco, Healdsburg is a great getaway destination for city folks and vacationers seeking a truly authentic wine country experience. Located at the center of several different wine growing regions, Healdsburg is a lovely little hamlet that gives a far better getaway experience than its noisy and congested neighbor to the east, Napa Valley. Just bring a fat wallet, because the upscale nature of this area means you'll be paying a premium for attractions, restaurants and lodging that his has to offer.

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Healdsburg Memorial Beach
Despite pleasant temperatures during most of the year, Healdsburg sees its share of scorching hot summer afternoons. When the mercury climbs, join the locals at the finest watering hole in town, the Healdsburg Memorial Beach. Located along the Russian River, this popular hangout is open during summer months only. Get there early, bring a picnic and stay a while for a fine summer afternoon experience. Although leashed dogs are welcome, they are prohibited from swimming there, so bring lots of water for Rover.
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Healdsburg Wine Tour
If you find yourself in Healdsburg, chances are that you love wine. Healdsburg is located smack in the middle of the best wine producing regions in Northern California, where over 100 wineries are located within easy driving distance of the downtown area. With so much wine and so little time, why not let someone else do the driving and... More >
If you find yourself in Healdsburg, chances are that you love wine. Healdsburg is located smack in the middle of the best wine producing regions in Northern California, where over 100 wineries are located within easy driving distance of the downtown area. With so much wine and so little time, why not let someone else do the driving and show you the best the region has to offer?
At Armstrong Redwoods, you'll see prehistoric plants larger than a car, and trees taller than your wildest dreams.
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Armstrong Redwoods SNR
If you journey all the way to Healdsburg and don't see a live redwood tree, up close and in person, then you've failed as a tourist. Northern California is home to the world-famous redwood trees, some of the largest and oldest living things on the planet. At Armstrong Redwoods, you'll see prehistoric plants larger than a car, and trees... More >
If you journey all the way to Healdsburg and don't see a live redwood tree, up close and in person, then you've failed as a tourist. Northern California is home to the world-famous redwood trees, some of the largest and oldest living things on the planet. At Armstrong Redwoods, you'll see prehistoric plants larger than a car, and trees taller than your wildest dreams. It's an easy drive from town, and when you're done, you can check "See Redwood Trees" off that bucket list of yours.
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Cafe Gratitude
If you've always thought vegan food is bland and tasteless, Cafe Gratitude will rock your world. With a focus on locally produced and organic ingredients, the New Agey-themed menu of raw and some cooked food items includes selections such as the "I am Cheerful Live Sunburger," a sprouted pumpkin seed-walnut burger on a sweet onion sunf... More >
If you've always thought vegan food is bland and tasteless, Cafe Gratitude will rock your world. With a focus on locally produced and organic ingredients, the New Agey-themed menu of raw and some cooked food items includes selections such as the "I am Cheerful Live Sunburger," a sprouted pumpkin seed-walnut burger on a sweet onion sunflower bun." You won't find a more stereotypical West Coast eating experience than this hippie haven, but if you're open minded enough to check it out, you'll probably love the food.
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Scopa
Vegans and vegetarians, run! Scopa is the last place you want to be, but the absolute best choice for fine dining, carnivore-oriented enthusiasts. The philosophy behind this casual little cafe is that if you're going to kill an animal for food, you might as well use the entire critter up. A good example is this lamb's tongue selection above, or the Trippa Napolitana, which is braised tripe. But even if you're not that fond of intestinal-based cuisine, the menu at Scopa will still offer plenty of selections. Open for dinner only, be sure to call ahead for reservations at this very popular, casual and moderately-priced restaurant. Even Tuesday nights are packed with elbow-to-elbow diners in this shoebox-sized cafe.
With a focus on locally produced and organic ingredients, the New Agey-themed menu of raw and some cooked food items includes selections such as the "I am Cheerful Live Sunburger," a sprouted pumpkin seed-wa...
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Hotel Healdsburg
Get a real feel for the quaint little community of Healdsburg by staying in the center of town at the Hotel Healdsburg. This high-end, upscale getaway destination has everything: a fine dining restaurant, world class spa and a location near the best Healdsburg attractions. Just be sure to get a room at the back of the hotel to avoid late night street noise on the Plaza. More
Get a real feel for the quaint little community of Healdsburg by staying in the center of town at the Hotel Healdsburg. This high-end, upscale getaway destination has everything: a fine dining restaurant, world class spa and a location near the best Healdsburg attractions. Just be sure to get a room at the back of the hotel to avoid late night street noise on the Plaza.
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About the Author

Rene Agredano
Rene Agredano
Partner, Agreda Communications, and co-founder of Tripawds.com, the world's largest community for three legged dogs and their humans. Seasonal adventure traveler, writer; and seeker of good times, tasty beverages and good people.
Websitefacebook.com/agredano
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