Touring the Sonoma Plaza History

Statue of a soldier holding a flag, mounted on a large rock with a plaque beneath it, surrounded by a garden in a park with trees and benches.
Historical bronze plaque about the Swiss Hotel, built in 1836 by Don Salvador Vallejo in California, now a landmark and restaurant.
Stone building with a sign that reads "Vella = Cheese" and a tree in front.
A vintage green pickup truck parked on the street in front of a row of buildings, with trees and American flags in the background.
Wooden balcony with American flags and a sign that reads "Sonoma Barracks."
A small church with white stucco walls, a red tile roof, wooden beams, and a cross on top, illuminated by exterior lights during dusk.

Are you ready to step back in time and discover the rich history of Sonoma? Take a history tour of this charming town, and learn all about its fascinating past. From the Mission San Francisco Solano to the Sonoma Plaza, this itinerary takes you on a journey through the history of this beautiful region. Oh, we’ll make sure you’re fed too! ;)

We recommend taking this itinerary by foot or bike from Wednesday to Saturday based on The Swiss Hotel’s operating hours (see below). Start your tour at Vallejo’s home at 10:00 am and try to be at the Swiss Hotel no later than 2:00 pm.

  • Total Duration: 4-6 hours

  • Transportation: Walk, Bike, Drive

  • Parking: Sonoma Square, Sonoma Historic State Park

A two-story white house with a picket fence and trees in front, some with leaves turning yellow and orange, and apple trees with red apples. The house has dark green shutters and a porch.

General Vallejo’s Home - 10:00 am

Operated by the California Dept. of Parks and Recreation, General Vallejo's Home is a historic museum located in Sonoma, California. The home was built in the early 1850’s and was the residence of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a prominent figure in the history of California. General Vallejo was instrumental in the transition of California from Mexican to American control, and his home is a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region.

Circular sign with red, white, and green colors reading 'Vella Cheese Co.' and 'Whole Milk Dry Monterey Cheese.' The sign features the California state flag with a bear and a red star, and text indicating it was established in 1931, located in Sonoma, California.

Vella Cheese Company - 11:00 am

Vella Cheese is a beloved institution in Sonoma, with a history dating back to 1931. Founded by Tom and Mary Vella, the cheese company has been family-owned and operated for three generations. Vella Cheese is known for its high-quality artisanal cheeses, including cheddar, gouda, and most notably the aged dry jack.

A small white church with a red-tile roof, wooden beams, and a cross on top, illuminated by exterior lights at dusk.

The Sonoma Mission - 11:30am

The Sonoma Mission, also known as Mission San Francisco Solano, is a historic Spanish mission located in the city of Sonoma, California. The mission was founded in 1823 and is the northernmost of the California missions. It played a significant role in the early history of California and is an important cultural and historical landmark in the region.

A rustic two-story building with white plaster walls, a large wooden door, and a wooden balcony with railing.

The Sonoma Barracks - 12:30pm

The barracks were built in the 1840s and served as military barracks for the Mexican army. After the Bear Flag Revolt in 1846, the barracks became the headquarters for the California Republic. Today, the barracks are a museum, and open Thurs-Tues, 10am - 5pm for the public to visit.

Photo of a cozy bar with wooden furniture, shelves of liquor bottles, glassware, and warm lighting.

The Swiss Hotel - 1:00pm

Between 1836 and 1840, the General’s Brother, Don Salvador Vallejo, built his family home in the middle of the block on the north side of the Plaza. That beautiful adobe structure still stands today and is now The Swiss Hotel which serves up traditional Italian cuisine and is a local staple.

Swiss Hotel Operating Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday:  5 – 9 p.m.
Wednesday: Noon – 3 | 5 – 9 p.m.
Thursday: Noon – 3 | 5 – 9 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: Noon – 3 | 5 – 10 p.m. | Last seating 9:30, Close at 10
Sunday: Noon – 3 p.m.

A small white church with a tile roof, wooden beams, a bell, and a cross on the roof, set against a clear sky.