Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley
21707 8th St. East suite B, Sonoma, CA, 95476
Visitors looking for an unusual way to taste their way through California’s wine country can ride through the beautiful Sonoma Valley on an authentic replica of a late 1890s San Francisco cable car. No need for a designated driver or clambering in and out of a limousine; everyone has a window seat aboard the vintage, open-air Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley.
The basics
Hopping aboard the trolley makes it easy to take in all the vineyard views. An entertaining guide provides live commentary as you make your way to four premium wineries along the route. Locations can vary, but include recognizable names like the Benziger Family Winery, Imagery Estate, and BR Cohn in Glen Ellen; or Kunde and Paradise Ridge in Kenwood. A catered lunch from a favorite bistro, The Girl & The Fig, is provided.
Things to know before you go
- All participants must be 21 years of age or older.
- Winery tasting fees are not included in the cost of the tour.
- Additional pickup locations are available for riders staying at hotels around the Sonoma Plaza.
- The trolley entrance has high steps and is not wheelchair-accessible.
How to get there
The trolley picks up passengers in front of City Hall, centrally located on 8th Street East at the Sonoma Plaza. It’s about a 60-minute drive north from San Francisco. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and continue on Highway 101 for about 20 miles (32 kilometers); from Highway 37 it’s less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) to CA-121, then onto CA-12 W/Broadway to reach your destination.
When to get there
Tours typically depart daily from the historic Sonoma Plaza in the morning. Trolleys operate year-round, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. The Sonoma Valley is known for its temperate climate, but travelers will find it a fun ride in all seasons.
No Ordinary Guide
This trolley tour is narrated by a local historian and actor who provides wine country tidbits and background on the wineries you may visit. While the wine tasting is the best way to learn about the varietals you’ll sip, your host shares historical trivia on the region, including California Historical Landmarks like the Bear Flag Monument.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!