Rohnert Park: The Friendly City

Rohnert Park is known as the “friendly city” and that’s no accident. The city was designed from the ground up with families in mind. Bike paths and walkways connect tree-lined streets and neighborhoods are each built around a park and elementary school. RP is also home to Sonoma State University and the Green Music Center, a performing arts destination with a concert hall and outdoor entertainment space. The Spreckels Performing Arts Center, SOMO Village and the Graton Casino add to the city’s entertainment attractions. The casino has Las Vegas-a worthy gaming and a live music venue that has attracted names like Melissa Etheridge, the Gin Blossoms and comedian Anthony Jeselnik.

If gambling isn’t your thing, roll over to CalSkate, an old-school roller rink that has been a Sonoma County mainstay for four-wheeled fun. Across Highway 101, Scandia Family Fun Center lets kids (and adults) be kids with miniature golf, batting cages, go-karts and a bustling arcade. 

The food and drink offerings in Rohnert Park are friendly, too. Parliament and Old Caz breweries attract savvy beer lovers. Vegetarians and carnivores alike head to Amy’s Kitchen for drive-thru meatless burgers and shakes while Hana Japanese Restaurant is Sonoma County’s premier choice for top-shelf Japanese food and a world-class list of sake.

To experience the less developed side of Rohnert Park, head out to Crane Creek Regional Park. The 128-acre park is threaded by the namesake creek and offers 3.5 miles of trails and a 18-hole disc golf course.