Welcome to Petaluma
Come experience the charm of historic Petaluma.
Petaluma, California is a historic town with a rich past. Founded in 1852 by islanders from the Sonoma Coast, Petaluma quickly became a thriving center of agriculture and commerce. The town’s convenient location at the confluence of the Petaluma River and San Pablo Bay made it an ideal stop for ships traveling between San Francisco and points north. As the town grew, Petaluma became known for its quality products, including butter, eggs, and poultry. The town’s success attracted the attention of wealthy investors, who built lavish mansions along Petaluma’s winding streets.
Today, these grand old homes are a testament to Petaluma’s prosperous past, and the town remains a haven for those seeking a taste of old California. In Petaluma, there is always something to do. The region is home to a variety of businesses and restaurants, and there are always new stores opening frequently. For those who love the outdoors, Petaluma is a wonderful place to live. There are several parks and trails for hiking, biking, or spending the day with the family. The Petaluma River offers an exciting place to fish or go kayaking. There’s also a farmers’ market every Saturday where you can buy fresh produce and flowers. No matter what your interests are, Petaluma has something for everyone.
What to Love
- Exquisite wineries
- Inventive art galleries
- Convenient central location
- Gorgeous parks and trails
Local Lifestyle
Petaluma is located at the confluence of the Petaluma River and San Pablo Bay. The Historic mansions are a big part of what makes Petaluma special. Take a stroll down the winding streets and imagine what life was like for the wealthy investors who once called this town home. And, of course, Petaluma is known for its fine products, including butter, eggs, and poultry. Be sure to stop by one of the many locally-owned shops and pick up some of these delicious items!
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
There are several stellar restaurants in Petaluma, California. Some of the most popular ones include Sugo Trattoria and Thai Cuisine. Sugo Trattoria is known for its delicious pasta dishes, while Thai Cuisine serves up fantastic Thai dishes, and is the perfect eatery for vegetarians.
Whether you are looking for a fun night out on the town or just want to shop downtown Petaluma, there are plenty of entertainment options in the area. Some popular spots include The Phoenix Theater, which hosts regular live music events and comedy nights, and the Petaluma Historical Library and Museum, which is a great place to learn about the city’s history.
When you're in the market for some retail therapy, there are many popular shopping destinations in Petaluma. Some favorites include the Coddingtown Mall and the Downtown Plaza, both of which offer an array of boutiques, restaurants, and services. Additionally, there is a popular farmers’ market that takes place every Saturday morning in downtown Petaluma, which is the perfect place to pick up some fresh produce and other local goods.
Petaluma has everything you're looking for in a place to call home; great food, fun entertainment, fantastic shopping, and beautiful parks and trails to explore.
Things to Do
Two miles from downtown Petaluma is the Petaluma Wetlands. This 500-acre preserve boasts nine distinct ecosystems and over 200 species of birds have been cataloged, a true bird watcher’s paradise. Shollenberger Park, the most popular in the area, is known for its three miles of trails and opportunities to view wildlife.
Schools
Each of the schools in Petaluma are highly acclaimed, serving as an example for other schools in the area.