Petaluma, CA Dating Guide

Published On: September 1, 2024|Categories: Dating Tips, First Dates, Local City Dating Guides|4 min read|
Petaluma, CA boasts an eclectic mix of date spots, from intimate farm-to-table restaurants to picturesque outdoor spaces, ideal for both first dates and deepening relationships. Whether you’re craving craft cocktails in a historic setting or looking to explore the charming town’s local art and culture, Petaluma offers something for every couple! Browse through our list of date ideas to plan your next romantic adventure in this charming city.
If you’re single and ready to start dating, don’t wait—get started today!

El Roy’s $

El Roy’s Express Mex is the perfect low-key spot for a first date! The food ranges from burritos, tortas, tacos, platillos (specialty plates), sopes, gorditas, to Mexican hot dogs. With two food trucks in Petaluma and a restaurant location, El Roy’s is the way to go.

Risibisi  $$

Risibisi is a charming and friendly place located in downtown Petaluma which serves healthy, authentic Italian food featuring the finest local ingredients. Most entrees are in the $20-$25 range.

Speakeasy  $$

Want something different? Get an international culinary experience at Speakeasy. This quaint bistro, nestled in the alleys of downtown Petaluma offers a variety of tapas inspired by global cuisines and the area’s local ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally so that you and your date can revisit throughout the year and have a unique experience each time, but some of their menu items include, BBQ “Pulled” Jackfruit tacos and Lobster Mac and Cheese.

Napa Valley Paddle  $$$

Glide into historic Old Town Petaluma and back to the Marina by kayak or paddle board. Beginner level, round trip journey starts from the Petaluma Marina and follows upriver into the Turn Basin where you can tie up your board and explore riverfront restaurants, bars, and shops. Tandem kayak options start around $150.

Cal Skate  $

Cal Skate of Rohnert Park is a locally owned family-run roller skating rink for fitness and family entertainment! Their  skating floor features 3 mirror balls, fun colorful lights, and a large projector screen to play music videos and provide entertainment and ambience.

Sunday Night Adults Skate admission is only $15, plus an optional skate rental.

Helen Putnam Regional Park  $

Looking for stunning views? At Helen Putnam Regional Park you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape – there are trails for all hiking abilities. After weaving through oak woodlands, striding along grassy hillsides and ambling by Cattail Pond, settle down for a picnic by one of the large benches overlooking the valley for a date to remember. 

It’s free to visit the park and use the trails. Parking is $7, unless you’re a parks member—then it’s free too.

Petaluma Arts Center $

Located in a 4,500-square-foot facility inside the historic Railroad Depot Freight Building, the Petaluma Arts Center makes art accessible to the public through sophisticated and inspiring art exhibitions displayed in an approachable environment. In addition, the Petaluma Arts Center offers various workshops and educational opportunities to promote learning for all ages. Admission for non-members is $5, with a $1 discount for seniors and educators.

Robert Ferguson Observatory  $

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park is the home of Robert Ferguson Observatory, Northern California’s most active public observatory. It is also the largest observatory in the western United States completely dedicated to public viewing and education. The dark night sky of Sugarloaf Ridge makes it a perfect location for stargazing and the observatory is open to the public on select weekends throughout the year for both night and solar viewing. Tickets are typically around $15, and there is a parking fee of $10.

Seared  $$-$$$

Seared serves the highest quality of beef and fresh seafood, in a comfortably elegant atmosphere. You can your date can enjoy the Raw Bar featuring a selection of oysters, sashimi and tartares. Most entrees are around the $40-$50 range. A happy hour menu is offered Tuesday-Sunday as well.

Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley  $$$

If you like more interactive date nights, book a passage for two on the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley. Tour the beautiful Sonoma Valley in a hand-built replica of a California Street Cable Car while sampling wines from four local wineries. Tours can last up to six hours and include a catered picnic lunch, scenic views, and knowledgeable guides. Show your date what makes the Sonoma Valley the best place to live and book your tour today!

The Shuckery  $$-$$$

They’re much more than an oyster bar. The Shuckery is a culinary experience that stands for warm hospitality and food that comforts and excites. You and your date can enjoy raw oysters and a selection of artfully crafted, ocean-inspired dishes. Entrees are in the $40-$45 range, with several shareable plates for around $20.

Paradise Ridge Winery  $$$

Paradise Ridge Winery is the place to go for an evening filled with romance. Their wines are crafted to bring pleasure to food and friends and become an experience that evolves into a memorable story. Their multi-faceted estate offers an unforgettable Sonoma County wine country experience. Guests can savor vineyard-designated wines while taking in sweeping Russian River Valley views and exploring our outdoor sculpture grove. Tasting options begin at $55 per person.

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