10 Unmissable Things To Do in Sonora, California

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore 10 unmissable things to do in Sonora, California, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the area’s scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and thrilling outdoor adventures.

Tucked in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Sonora is a charming historic town in California’s Gold Country. With its rich history, natural beauty, and diverse attractions, Sonora offers something for every type of traveller.

From exploring museums and hiking trails to savouring local wines and discovering neighbouring towns, here are 10 top things to do in Sonora, CA that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Step Back in Time at Tuolumne County Museum

Begin your Sonora visit at the Tuolumne County Museum & History Center, located in the historic county jail. This museum offers exhibits on Native American heritage, the California Gold Rush, and law and justice history. Admission is free.

Next door, the Sonora Fire Museum features antique firefighting equipment from the past century, showcasing the town’s firefighting history.

2. Hike the Scenic Dragoon Gulch Trail

For a dose of fresh air and exercise, hit the Dragoon Gulch Trail. This 2.2-mile loop near downtown Sonora is a favourite among locals for hiking, biking, and walking dogs. The trail winds through oak woodlands, offering scenic vistas of the town and surrounding hills.

Keep an eye out for wildflowers in spring and the occasional deer or wild turkey. Benches along the way provide perfect rest stops to soak in the views.

3. Tee Off at Teleli Golf Club

Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss playing a round at Teleli Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course designed by Robert Muir Graves. The par-70 course is set amidst rolling hills dotted with oaks, pines, and redwoods, with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada foothills.

The course is suitable for all skill levels, with four sets of tees ranging from 5,636 to 6,893 yards. After your game, relax at the clubhouse restaurant and bar.

4. Sample Local Flavors at Indigeny Reserve

For a unique Sonora experience, visit Indigeny Reserve, a family-owned cider works on a scenic 160-acre apple orchard. Sample their handcrafted hard ciders, apple brandy, and fruit-infused vodkas made from organic apples.

Enjoy a stroll through the orchard, tackle the 3-mile mountain bike trail, or play 18 holes of disc golf. Picnic sites and a gift shop are also available.

5. Get Up Close With Llamas

Animal lovers should visit Llamas of Circle Home in Sonora for hands-on experiences with these gentle creatures. Tour the ranch to learn about their care, feed and groom them, or take a llama for a walk. The knowledgeable owners also offer custom tours and treks in the countryside, making it a fun and educational outing for all ages.

6. Explore Columbia State Historic Park

Visit Columbia State Historic Park, a living museum showcasing the 1850s California Gold Rush, just 15 minutes from Sonora. Explore over 30 original buildings, including stores, saloons, and a blacksmith shop.

Costumed docents demonstrate traditional crafts. Enjoy activities like gold panning, riding a 100-year-old stagecoach, or attending living history events. Admission and parking are free.

7. Discover Art and History in Downtown Sonora

A visit to Sonora isn’t complete without exploring its historic downtown along Washington Street (Highway 49). Stroll past 19th-century buildings with art galleries, antique stores, boutiques, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms.

Visit the Aloft Art Gallery to see works by over 30 local artists, or indulge your sweet tooth at the Candy Vault. On the second Saturday of each month, enjoy Art Night Sonora, featuring late-opening galleries, refreshments, and live music.

8. Experience the Sierra Repertory Theatre

Add a dash of culture to your Sonora attractions itinerary with a performance at the Sierra Repertory Theatre, one of the region’s premier performing arts organizations. The theatre presents a diverse mix of musicals, comedies, and dramas at two venues: the East Sonora Theatre and the Historic Fallon House Theatre in Columbia.

Shows run from spring through fall. Check the website for the current season schedule and to purchase tickets online.

9. Sip and Savor Along the Tuolumne County Craft Beverage Trail

Tuolumne County is home to a thriving craft beverage scene, with over a dozen small-batch producers of wine, beer, cider, and spirits. Follow the Tuolumne County Craft Beverage Trail to discover these artisanal treasures, many of which are located in and around Sonora.

Pick up a free trail map at any participating venue (or download it online), then collect stamps at each stop to earn discounts and prizes. Highlights include:

• Indigeny Reserve (hard cider & brandy)

• Hurst Ranch (wine & hard cider)

• Around the Horn Brewing Co. (craft beer)

• Sonora Brewing Co. (craft beer)

• Gianelli Vineyards (wine)

10. Take a Day Trip to Neighboring Towns

Sonora is an ideal base for exploring historic towns and natural wonders in Tuolumne County, all within an hour’s drive:

• Jamestown: A Gold Rush town with antique shops, wine tasting, and Railtown 1897 State Historic Park featuring vintage steam trains. (21 miles)

• Murphys: Known for its Main Street filled with wine-tasting rooms, art galleries, and boutiques, plus nearby Calaveras Big Trees State Park with giant sequoias. (32 miles)

• Pinecrest Lake: A scenic alpine lake in Stanislaus National Forest for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping amid stunning Sierra Nevada views. (30 miles)

Your Sonora Getaway with Airtel

With its rich history, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, Sonora offers a rewarding getaway in the heart of California’s Gold Country. Use this guide to help plan your own trip and discover the top things to do in Sonora.

One practical tip: While Sonora has good cell service in town, coverage can be spotty in the surrounding hills and forests. Consider signing up for one of Airtel’s Postpaid international roaming plans to ensure you stay connected wherever your Sonora explorations take you.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Sonora escape today and experience the best of California’s Gold Country for yourself.