Downtown Petaluma. Credit: M Woolsey/Sonoma County Petaluma offers a less crowded alternative to Napa with a strong food scene and access to more than 80 nearby vineyards. The historic city blends Victorian architecture, local shops, and cultural attractions with outdoor activities along the river and nearby parks. Visitors can enjoy diverse dining, boutique stays, and proximity to Point Reyes National Seashore and Tomales Bay.