1. Be a Pioneer at Fort Ross State Park

This historical settlement dates back to 1812, when it was an important trading post that helped send vital food supplies to the pioneer communities in Alaska. Be sure to visit the chapel and the Rotchey House—one of the few surviving original structures. They’ve also reconstructed the blockhouses and stockades, to give visitors a chance to get a “feel” of life in early America.

2. Visit Lake Sonoma, Healdsburg

Lake Sonoma has something for everyone—families, couples, or even individuals seeking a few hours of serene solitude. You can hike, swim, ride a boat or a horse, hunt, and even set up camp.

There are nearly 17,700 acres to explore, full of trails and groves full of oak, madrone, alder, redwood and bay trees. These encircle the lake and the surrounding hills, and are full of amazing wildlife—deer, rabbits, birds, and one of America’s endangered species, the peregrine falcon. In early spring and summer, the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers of every color.

Bring a picnic basket and a camera—this is one place you can’t miss.

3. Experience a Scenic Air Tour “Above California”

Experience California from a completely different perspective – from the air! These amazing aerial tours will take you through the famous Sonoma and Napa Wine Country— through vineyards and valleys, over the mountain peaks and the rippling waters of the Pacific Coast. You’ll even get to see places accessible only through plane (and imagine what kind of pictures you’ll be able to take!).

All pilots are FAA certified, and give an informed and interesting commentary on the region’s history, geography and ecosystems. Truly an “Experience of a Lifetime” you’ll remember forever.

Visitors can also ask for customized tours and photography flights. Visit [http://www.sonomacountyairport.com/scenic-air-tours.php] for more information or call North Coast Air at: 707-542-8687 (TOUR).

4. Cruise Along America’s Famous Hwy. 1

They don’t call this American Road for nothing. California’s state route, Highway 1, takes visitors past one of the world’s longest stretches of coastlines. Enjoy mile after mile of ocean view, refreshing breeze, and clear, blue sky. Then, stretch your legs at any of the many golden beaches. Dive into the water, work on that tan, or lounge in the shade with a cold drink and a good nook.

5. “Ooh and Aah” at The Old Faithful Geyser

Think of geysers as natural recurring steam baths. These stone cones cast a scalding fountain of water up to 75 feet into the air. However, most breakouts are irregular and unpredictable—only three in the world actually have constant, predictable eruptions.

One of them is found in Calistoga. This Old Faithful erupts every 20 to 30 minutes, though rainfall can cause it to “blow” more frequently, but with less intensity. Visitors say it’s an “amazing experience” that draws oohs and aahs every time. Pack a picnic lunch and grab a table near the geyser.

6. Be a Farmer for a Day on “Sonoma County Farm Trails”

For one day, you can experience being farmer for day—go berry picking, feed the sheep and llamas, and bite into apples that had been picked off the branches just minutes before. You can get free trail maps that will lead you though different produce farms, breweries, cheese factories and wineries. You can also buy fruits and vegetables directly from the farmer.oregon wine tours