Healdsburg, CA: The Honor Mansion

Right off the 101, just past Sonoma and deep in the heart of wine country in Sonoma County is the beautiful city of Healdsburg, CA. Take a stroll around Healdsburg and discover the riches and treats of small town individuality that make it so special.  Drop in on some of the world class shopping, renowned art and sculpture, wines and cheeses, independent bookstores, treasure troves of antiquing and so much more. There is truly something for everyone.

For a place to stay the night, visit The Honor Mansion. Vacation in one of the thirteen luxurious rooms spread over a four acre property. Every morning there is a breakfast buffet for all guests to delight in. If you are looking to stay on the property for the day, enjoy the lap pool, competition croquet, PGA putting green, tennis, basketball and bocce ball courts as well as spa services.

But being in wine country gives many opportunities for fun. Stroll through some of the art galleries in town or take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards. There are a multitude of wine tours for tasting and food pairings. If you want some beer instead, visit the Bear Republic Brewing Co. Brewpub in Healdsburg. They have signature burgers and their beer is used in many of the recipes on site. Appreciate the locally produced artisan cheeses and charcuterie plates as well.

For more information, visit The Honor Mansion and Bear Republic Brewing Co. online. 

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Livermore, CA: The Purple Orchid

Right off the 580 Freeway, near the end of the Mt DiabloSummit Run, is a beautiful wine country in Livermore, CA. There you will find Concannon Vineyard celebrating their 130^th Anniversary of making award winning wines.  Come and enjoy their newly-renovated tasting room and historic winery. Taste some of the most delicious and elegant wines in California during a guided private tour of the winery, barrel room and historic vineyards. Their wine bar patio offers a global cuisine in a casual ambiance overlooking the vines.

If you prefer the taste of hops over grapes, you can visit Eight Bridges Brewing also in Livermore. The tasting room is there for you to enjoy their beers, tour the brewery, meet the brewer and even take beer home for later. From time to time they hold special events and have special beer releases that will be available only in the tasting room. Eight Bridges Brewing focuses on providing both your favorite brews and a variety that will keep you coming back for more.

After a long day of riding and drinking, you will want to rest at The Purple Orchid. They have ten modern country suites complete with fireplaces and private Jacuzzi tubs, with breakfast the next morning included. Take a walk through the beautiful rose garden or socialize with others in the common areas with wine and cheese. Their spa has a large selection of services to help relax your body and mind.

 For more information, visit Concannon Vineyard, Eight Bridges Brewing and The Purple Orchid online. Pictures courtesy of their websites. 

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Diablo, CA: Mt Diablo Summit Run

Take the Mt Diablo Summit Run, starting at the North Gate entrance of the mountain right off of Ygnacio Valley Road, and ending at the south gate in the town of Diablo near the 680 freeway. It is filled with twists and turns for the more advanced rider.The Summit Run offers a stop off at the top for a beautiful 3800 feet view of the Bay Area. On a clear day you can see the Golden Gate Bridge. This 22 mile ride will take you about an hour and on your way up and down, watch out for rapid altitude changes.

You also have the option to take the Marsh Creek Road around the back side of the mountain for a casual cruise.  The Marsh Creek Road has some tight 5mph turns for a short 7 mile ride from Clayton to Livermore.

 

And while in Livermore, stop off for a taste at the Working Man Brewing Company. Working Man Brewing Company is a micro-brewery dedicated to hand crafted artisan beers. The tasting room is officially open to the public and visitors are able to sample a variety of beers and have growlers filled fresh while you wait.

For more information visit Working Man Brewing Company online.

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Hollywood, CA: Hollywood Wax Museum

The world famous Hollywood Wax Museum is located off of Hollywood Blvd, near Mulholland Drive and is a great place to go for a pit stop. It is the only wax museum in the country devoted entirely to celebrity figures meaning it puts you face to face with some of your silver screen favorites. Everything from Hollywood stars, television personalities to characters from your fa

vorite movies. There are also sets devoted to the scariest and most memorable horror movie villains and blockbuster moments from the top 100 movies of all time.

When you are done there, take a walk across the street to the Pig N’ Whistle for a drink or two. One of the few remaining staples in Los Angeles that still offers patrons a true taste of “Old Hollywood” since opening its doors in 1927, the Pig ‘N Whistle has remained a cultural landmark. In addition to the comprehensive menu and bar, they feature Live Entertainment every Wednesday through Saturday in the Back Room along with Karaoke in the Main room every Wednesday and Thursday.

For more information on these places and special events, visit their websites. Pictures courtesy of Pig N’ Whistle. 

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