Northern California is home to a plethora of wine valleys. Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley, Russian River Valley, and on and on. There's almost too many to count! However, there's a vastly underrated wine region that is worth checking out if you consider yourself a wine connoisseur. The Livermore Valley is located just 35 miles east of San Francisco and it's considered one of Northern California's best kept secrets. You could spend days exploring this premier wine region, but if you'd like to condense your escapades to just a single day then we definitely recommend this charming wine trolley tour. The trolley takes you to all off the very best wineries and vineyards, showing you the best of Livermore Valley in one go.
All aboard! One of the most magnificent wine tours in the nation can be found in the lesser-known wine country of Livermore Valley. Home to more than 50 one-of-a-kind wineries, you can see the very best that the valley has to offer via the Livermore Valley Wine Trolley.
The all-inclusive wine tour is perfect for a family outing, a romantic day date, or any other special event. On the tour you'll visit some of the valley's best wineries, enjoy the beautiful landscape, and learn all there is to know about this spectacular region—all while riding around in this charming old-fashioned trolley.
The trolley departs from downtown Livermore at 11:00 am every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It then takes passengers straight into the heart of Livermore's wine valley, making stops at three different wineries for you to enjoy.
The wine trolley company has partnered with over 25 wineries in the valley and the three specific ones you visit on the tour rotates daily. This ensures that each tour is always a little bit different than the last one, so each time you visit you'll have a new and exciting experience.
Each of the wineries are unique in their own way. There's something fascinating about seeing the differences with your own eyes in the time span of a day. No matter what wineries you end up at, you're bound to have a lovely experience with experienced and knowledgeable wine makers.
You'll taste a variety of wines at each winery. A delicious, made-to-order lunch is also provided during the tour. Sit back and enjoy the views while tasting some of California's finest wines!
The trolley itself is the cherry on top of this picture-perfect tour. There are few things more charming than riding around a landscape of picturesque vineyards and lush rolling hills in one of these enchanting, old timey trolleys.
After the tour, the trolley will drop you off back at the starting location around 3:30 pm. Get to know one of Northern California's most underrated wine valleys and hop aboard this wonderful wine trolley. For more information, you can visit their website here.
In Dry Creek Valley, California, vineyards blanket the landscape, and nearly every road seems to lead to a world-class winery. With so many tasting rooms to explore, where do you start? My road trip through Sonoma County, near Nappa Valley Wine Country, was a chance to experience the region’s rich wine culture in an easygoing, accessible way. I’m excited to share some of the hidden gems in Sonoma County I uncovered along the way—each with its own unique allure and story.
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My itinerary was designed for simplicity, with most destinations only a few minutes apart, making it easy to navigate and allowing more time to savor each stop. You could drive the whole route in 15 minutes!
1. DaVero Farms & Winery: A Sonoma Wine Tasting with a Twist
Growing up in Missouri, where we’re proud of the area’s wine-making history, I’m used to casual tasting experiences, typically standing at a bar for a series of quick pours. However, in California wine country, tastings are more intimate. DaVero Farms and Winery in Healdsburg, California, offered an immersive experience beyond a simple tasting.
We were warmly welcomed into a stunning courtyard framed by an ancient olive tree and surrounded by grape processing areas where the scent of wine fermenting in oak barrels lingered. For our visit, we opted for “The Full Farm Experience,” a personal 90-minute tasting that included estate wines, house-made olive oil, and artisanal bites, all capped off with a private tour of the biodynamic farm.
DaVero’s grounds were a main draw for us, and they exceeded expectations. The lush courtyard opens to rustic garden paths lined with vibrant pollinator gardens, rows of food crops, fruit trees, and flower beds; all tended using regenerative farming techniques. The property even has resident animals, including adorable piglets, which brought the farm’s sustainable ethos to life. While there, we met one of the owners, who was out harvesting flowers and shared insights about DaVero’s commitment to biodynamic practices. He even sent us off with a fragrant bundle fresh cut of lavender.
Specializing in Italian varietals, vinegar, and olive oil, DaVero Farms & Winery blends traditional Italian influence with California’s distinctive climate, resulting in a tasting experience that truly feels rooted in the land.
2. The Madrona is California Wine Country’s Jewel
Perched atop a hill, The Madrona in Healdsburg, California, offers breathtaking views of Sonoma County's vineyards and rolling hills. This historic mansion, built in 1881, has been lovingly restored, merging classic elegance with a bespoke modern design aesthetic that avoids the stuffiness often associated with Victorian properties.
Day-trip visitors can enjoy a leisurely meal on the outdoor terrace, unwind in the cozy bar, or savor delightful dishes in the restaurant, all while exploring the beautifully landscaped grounds. The atmosphere feels like a visit to a [imaginary] wealthy uncle’s estate—inviting and warm—thanks to the approachable staff, accessible menu, inventive cocktails, and a selection of local wines. My mom ordered a burger, I got smoked trout dip, and even these casual foods were impeccably prepared, making them feel elegant and special.
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A stop at The Madrona is a must when exploring wine country in California. The property has two Michelin Keys, evidence of its merit for excellence in hospitality. Even if you’re not an overnight guest, you will be treated with personal attention.
3. Overshine: The Winery With the Best View in Sonoma County
Overshine offers a fun and quirky history with roots as a commune in the 1970s. The property features a newly remodeled tasting room housed within a striking geodesic dome, creating a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of mid-century design. We chose a single glass of wine during our visit, but the friendly staff graciously allowed us to sample a few more at no extra charge. Most of the wines offered are classic varietals from the region, showcasing the best of what Sonoma County has to offer.
However, the true highlight of Overshine in Healdsburg, California, is the breathtaking view that overlooks the entire valley, where vineyards and rolling hills stretch as far as the eye can see. On most days, this stunning backdrop is enhanced by a DJ spinning soul music from the winery's extensive vinyl collection, adding to the jovial ambiance.
Are you noticing a trend here? I sought out restaurants and wineries with the best views in Healdsburg, California, and Overshine certainly fits the bill!
As you leave the vineyard-covered Dry Creek Valley and approach the downtown area of Healdsburg, California, Breathless Wines awaits you in an unexpected industrial area. The tasting room is conveniently located just across the street from the winery’s bottling plant; it doesn’t get any more authentic.
Breathless Wines has transformed its grounds into meticulously curated gardens that elevate the tasting experience. This charming winery features a cozy patio where guests can relax and enjoy a selection of award-winning sparkling wines. We particularly enjoyed the blanc de blancs sparkling wine, served in sweet-looking traditional champagne glasses that added to the overall charm of our visit.
For those seeking a unique experience, Breathless Wines offers the chance to practice sabrage-opening a champagne bottle with a saber! You can reserve a one-on-one session with a knowledgeable guide who will teach you this impressive technique. It’s a fun way to feel like Napoleon while celebrating with a bottle opened by a sword!
5. Dine at Bravas Bar De Tapas: One of the Top Tapas Restaurants in the United States
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Bravas Bar De Tapas offers a blend of modern and traditional Spanish-style tapas. A larger menu can often lead to a dip in execution, but that’s not the case at Bravas. This exceptional restaurant is part of a family of award-winning establishments by James Beard Award semifinalists Mark and Terri Stark.
With an extensive selection of unique plates, I enjoyed some of the most exciting food I’ve had in a long time. Being in the heart of California’s wine country, Bravas features a thoughtfully crafted drink menu that includes local wines and unusual 9in a good way) signature gin and tonics. I opted for the Levante—an invigorating mix of gin, orange, cardamom, and saffron—perfectly paired with my Monterey calamari drizzled with salsa verde and lemon. Yum!
We dined al fresco on the beautiful patio, which was buzzing with energy, even on a weeknight. The food and spirits seemed to spread happiness among the diners, creating a vibrant and joyful atmosphere. If I lived in the area, I’d be a regular.
Exploring Sonoma Wine Country, particularly the Dry Creek Valley and Healdsburg, California, offers an unforgettable day trip filled with diverse experiences. Each stop reveals the region's unique charm and character, from sipping award-winning sparkling wines and indulging in creative tapas to soaking in breathtaking views. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual visitor, the warmth and beauty of this northern California wine country destination will make you want to come back again and again. I don't usually like returning to places I've traveled to, but I keep going back to Northern California.
If you’re looking for other unique experiences in Northern California, don’t miss the chance to connect with locals through Airbnb Experiences. Sonoma County’s rich art and food scenes are fueled by talented artisans and craftspeople, making it a vibrant place to explore. Check out these local-led experiences to gain an insider’s perspective and explore off-the-beaten-path experiences and Wineries in California.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
