Soak in California Sunshine Exploring Sonoma State Historic Park
Found in the heart of Sonoma Square, El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen puts you close to everything this California Wine Country town has to offer. Whatever the reason for your visit, from a romantic getaway to a vacation with friends, there is no shortage of adventures to embark on. Just steps from Sonoma Plaza sits Sonoma State Historic Park, and a visit to this California state park should be on every visitor’s itinerary.
A Guide to the Attractions that Make up Sonoma SHP
Unlike other parks, Sonoma State Historic Park (SHP) is a collection of historical attractions at six midtown locations near Sonoma Plaza. It is not only the site of the northernmost Franciscan Mission in the state, but it is also the birthplace of the state bear flag. Every site included in SHP is unique and will have you taking a step back in time as you explore the area’s past. Plan your own adventure or look into the guided tours that take place on weekends.
Mission San Francisco Solano
Founded in 1823, San Francisco Solano was the last mission founded in the state and was the only one founded under Mexican governance. The space was restored in 1913 and features the church, padres’ quarters, and a large quadrangle. View exhibits of mission life and a monument to the 896 Native Americans buried here.
Blue Wing Inn
Located across from the mission is the Blue Wing Inn, a two-story adobe building. Parts of the building were initially constructed to house soldiers assigned to the mission. Then U.S. Army officer Ulysses S. Grant visited this site at one point, which the state acquired in 1968.
Sonoma Barracks
Created to house Mexican army troops, construction of the barracks took place in stages before being completed in 1841. At one point, the barracks housed followers of the California Republic before U.S military forces took it over.
Toscano Hotel & Kitchen
Toscano Hotel, situated between Casa Grande and the barracks, served numerous purposes, including rental library and retail store before being an inexpensive hotel. Work has been done so that the hotel looks similar to the way it did around the 20th century.
La Casa Grande Servants’ Quarters
La Casa Grande was General Vallejo’s first home and included a wide balcony overlooking the Plaza. A group of American settlers and frontiersmen captured Vallejo at Casa Grande. Today, only the two-story servants’ quarters remain after a fire destroyed the main wing in 1867.
Lachryma Montis
When Vallejo became an elected state senator, he purchased acreage that became Lachryma Montis. The state acquired the lands and home in 1933 to preserve the site.
Explore the Past on a Visit to Sonoma
Just blocks from El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen, Sonoma State Historic Park is a great way to discover the vast history of this California town. After wandering around the sites that make up this park, relax at our luxurious downtown Sonoma hotel.
Each of our 27 rooms combines casual elegance with comfort to provide a relaxing space to call home. Enjoy world-class on-site dining and fantastic amenities as you treat yourself to a break from everyday life. To learn more about the hotel or special offers, call 707-996-3030.