Top 3 Museums to Visit Near Wander Calistoga Valley

Sonoma, California, isn't just known for its exquisite vineyards and stunning landscapes; it's also home to a trio of captivating museums that offer an array of unique experiences.

Explore museums dedicated to storytelling, journey through time with rich historical collections, and delve into aviation history. Here are our top 3 recommendations for museums near Wander Calistoga Valley. 

Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center

Photo courtesy of Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center

• Distance from Wander Calistoga Valley: 13 miles 

• Location: 2301 Hardies Ln, Santa Rosa, CA 95403

• Hours: 11AM-5PM Monday & Wednesday-Friday: 10AM-5PM Saturday & Sunday; Closed Tuesday 

• Phone: (707) 579-4452

• Website: https://schulzmuseum.org/ 

A playful museum dedicated to the legendary cartoonist Charles M. Schulz offers an array of exhibits showcasing his work, comics, a charming gift shop, and additional attractions. Admission is priced at $12 for adults, with a special rate of $5 for children under 18, and tickets can be conveniently purchased online.

Explore the Museum's Collection highlights, which encompass original Peanuts comic strips, personal artifacts belonging to Schulz, an extensive Peanuts book library, and much more.

Sharpsteen Museum

Photo courtesy of Sharpsteen Museum

• Distance from Wander Calistoga Valley: 5.6 miles 

• Location: 1311 Washington St, Calistoga, CA 94515

• Hours: 12PM-3PM Monday-Friday; 11AM-4PM Saturday & Sunday 

• Phone: (707) 942-5911

• Website: https://www.sharpsteenmuseum.org/ 

The Sharpsteen Museum, a local history museum, showcases a stagecoach, simulated barn, working model train, and more.

Using extensive dioramas, it vividly depicts Calistoga's past, especially its 1860s Hot Springs resort era developed by California's first millionaire, Sam Brannan. The museum hosts fun events and changes special exhibits every six months, reflecting the diverse interests of the Napa Valley community.

Tip: The museum is a great place for kids; it prioritizes accessibility and fun for both children and adults in its exhibits, featuring interactive displays like model trains, pop-up geysers, and intricate dioramas designed to make history engaging and educational.

Pacific Coast Air Museum

Photo courtesy of RomanticAsheville

• Distance from Wander Calistoga Valley: 14 miles 

• Location: One Air Museum Way, Santa Rosa, CA 95403

• Hours: 10AM-4PM Wednesday-Sunday; Closed Monday & Tuesday 

• Phone: (707) 575-7900

• Website: https://pacificcoastairmuseum.org/ 

Discover 30+ vintage aircraft, some open for exploration, alongside engaging exhibits and a shop. Celebrating over 30 years since its founding in 1989, the Pacific Coast Air Museum is a non-profit organization driven by aviation enthusiasts dedicated to educating and preserving aviation history in the Sonoma Community.

Explore three acres of outdoor aircraft, a realistic flight simulator, a 9/11 First Responder Exhibit, real jet engines, Sonoma's aviation artifacts, and WWII flight equipment. Conveniently located at the Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport, this family-friendly open-air museum in Santa Rosa, CA, welcomes visitors five days a week, year-round.

Top: Be sure to check out the events calendar for special events each month. There is plenty of free parking outside the Air Museum building and along Becker Boulevard.

Need more travel tips? Reach out to Wander's Concierge Team anytime via text at 737-377-3205. They're available 24/7 and can help you plan the best trip ever!