June 2006
Whine Country!
10 Unforgettable North Bay Outings
by Keri Siry
As a resident of the North Bay, you don’t need to worry about leaving your dog behind while exploring neighboring counties. Napa and Sonoma have the best of the best in the world of food and drink, and some wineries and outdoor restaurants include your dog in the fun, greeting him with a bone and water. Marin County is a perfect place to wander trails and window shop. The Russian River area is home to many dog-friendly vacation rentals and a water for dogs and humans to frolic in. Your weekend and holiday outings are always maximized when the whole family comes along! Compiled below is a list of the 10 best outings for your entire family, including restaurants, wineries, coffee shops, trail walks, beaches and more.
- No surprises here, as Stinson Beach continues to be a hot spot for North Bay dogs. Stroll with other dog lovers while watching seals and surfers catch some waves. Nearby stores and restaurants have outdoor patios. The Sand Dollar Restaurant provides water and a spot for your pup to hang out while you enjoy your meal.
- Leashed dogs can hike happily along through the Petrified Forest in Calistoga. Step back in time, over three million years, and follow the trail of majestic petrified ed redwood giants arrayed before you in a fascinating grove in beautiful wine country. Admission is $6, the website (see resources) has a printable coupon for 15% off admission. Continue your day in Calistoga by visiting some wineries that love to see you drive up with a furry friend. First, give a visit to the resident Airedales at Dutch Henry Winery on Silverado Trail. Next, have a picnic at Cuvaison Winery where dogs are allowed in the picnic area and on-leash in the tasting room.
- Sausalito is a beautiful town that is not just for tourists! Hands down, this bay area town has the best dog park around. FISH Restaurant is happy to have your dog on the outdoor patio for some delectable seafood. They serve dog cookies and provide fresh bowls of water. The Northpoint Coffee Company has a beautiful back patio and a front porch for you and your dog as you enjoy a latte or cappuccino by the water.
- With over 50 dog-friendly vacation homes and cool refreshing water to swim in, the Russian River is a great alternative to Tahoe this summer. June 17-18 is the 11th annual Blues Festival at Johnson's Beach in Guerneville, with wine, food and first-rate blues.
- Blithedale Ridge Trail in Corte Madera/Mill Valley features three breathtaking views of San Francisco and the bay on a clear day. Dogs are allowed o -leash on the re-roads. Local celebrity Doug McConnell of Bay Area Backroads is frequently seen with his dogs on this very trail. Need we say more? Head down to Corte Madera Town Center for lunch at AG Ferrari or Baja Fresh and finish up with a delicious coffee at Tully's.
- Three Dog Bakery began in 1989 with two guys on a mission to make healthy, yummy treats for dogs. Growing by the minute, TDB has over 25 stores in the U.S. and a few in Japan, Canada and South Korea! Luckily we have access to these goodies in Sonoma at 526 Broadway. Pick up some nonalcoholic, noncarbonated brew "Happy Tail Ale" for your pup at another nearby store, Dog Camp.
- Historic Railroad Square in Santa Rosa features a self-guided walking tour for bipeds and quadrupeds on leash. Santa Rosa's Visitor Center welcomes your dog with Milk Bones and plenty of water. Across the street fresh chips, salsa, and margaritas galore await at Chevy's. You will be seated on their outdoor patio, dog included. If you need a pick-me-up or a tasty pastry, try Flying Goat Coffee's outside seating. Head to 208 Davis Street to visit My Dog Bakery and Boutique where dogs can eat frozen yogurt in the summertime while playing together in the doggie run inside the store! Get photos taken of your pet in costume or just pick up some fresh baked goods. There is always time to work off some of those goodies at the De Turk Round Barn/Maverick Dog Park located at 819 Donohue Street.
- Healdsburg is a wonderland for you and your dog to explore. Get some exercise and fresh air at the Villa Dog Park, where forests and the Russian River surround you. The entire park is completely fenced and totals 1.5 acres! Cruise downtown for a new outfit or dog bed at Fideaux, and stop in for some doggie ice cream at the Dog House. Then, stay awhile at the Duchamp Hotel where you can sip champagne in the sun on your private balcony.
- For an extra-special weekend, melt away stress in the tiny town of Olema. Settle in at the luxurious Olema Inn with your dog; enjoy award winning food and a mellow hike on the Bolinas Ridge Trail. Paws are permitted at four of the local beaches on the Point Reyes Seashore: Limantour Beach, Kehoe Beach, North Beach and South Beach. (On-leash only please!) For directions go to www.nps.gov/ pore/visit_dogs.htm.
- Tiburon offers breathtaking views and a variety of activities to enjoy with your dog. Stop by Tails of Tiburon for some fancy dog treats and Hollywood-style accessories. Take a walk along the water or roll around in the grass. Grab a picnic at the Tiburon Deli at 110 Main Street. Dogs are welcome to sit with you at the outdoor tables, but the views beg for a picnic on the grass as you watch the city action from afar.