Santa Rosa, a town of 178,127 (2020 Census), is the County Seat of Sonoma County. That location puts it solidly in California's wine country and makes it a popular retirement community for baby boomers who enjoy wine and good food. The area is hilly with several nearby state parks. Outdoor activities and a slower lifestyle are also available here in plentiful supply. Santa Rosa is the largest city in California's wine country. Nearby towns include Sonoma, Healdsburg, and Napa. The city is actively engaged in economic development centered around wine, food, tourism, and making the center of Santa Rosa an attractive and engaging community - they seem to be succeeding. Restaurants and other retail stores occupy several historic buildings in Santa Rosa's Railroad Square district in the downtown area, including these along Fourth Street. Photo of The Hotel La Rose, built in 1907, is a functioning historic hotel in downtown Santa Rosa, courtesy of Wikipedia and Wulfnoth (public domain). Also in the public domain, photos of Charles Schultz Museum and Discovery Center and the Prince Memorial Greenway. |