Welcome to the Newto News for April of 2025. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Santa Rosa, California was founded in 1833 by a Mexican officer named Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo. Originally known as “Mision de San Francisco Solano,” the city was the last and northernmost of the California missions. In the 1850s, Santa Rosa experienced a population boom due to the Gold Rush, attracting settlers looking to strike it rich. The city became the county seat of Sonoma County in 1854. Santa Rosa continued to grow and prosper with the development of industry, including agriculture, winemaking, and the railroad. The devastating 1906 earthquake caused widespread destruction in the city, but it was quickly rebuilt. In the 20th century, Santa Rosa became known for its innovative agricultural techniques and as a hub for the wine industry. The city also played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement with the formation of the Santa Rosa City Council for Civil Rights in 1960. Today, Santa Rosa is a bustling city with a strong sense of community and a rich history that is celebrated in its many museums and landmarks.

The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  1. Healthcare
  2. Technology
  3. Education
  4. Hospitality
  5. Finance
  6. Retail
  7. Construction
  8. Manufacturing
  9. Government
  10. Transportation

The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  1. Hiking
  2. Biking
  3. Skiing
  4. Fishing
  5. Camping
  6. Golfing
  7. Boating
  8. Wine Tasting
  9. Rafting
  10. Rock Climbing

Average low and high temperature for the month:

Low: 50°F, High: 75°F

Average precipitation for the month:

2 inches

Elevation:

3500 feet

Average home price:

$400,000

Average household income:

$60,000

The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  1. National Park
  2. Historic Downtown
  3. Botanical Gardens
  4. Museum of Modern Art
  5. Zoo
  6. Wineries
  7. Scenic Overlook
  8. Waterfall
  9. Historic Fort
  10. Amusement Park

The top 10 restaurants:

SingleThread Farm – Restaurant – Inn

Downtown Santa Rosa

SingleThread is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exquisite taste of farm-to-table dining with a unique blend of Japanese and Californian cuisines.

Bird & The Bottle

Fourth Street Area

Bird & The Bottle serves inventive, globally-inspired comfort food that combines flavors from around the world in a fun and lively setting.

Jackson’s Bar and Oven

Railroad Square

Known for its wood-fired pizzas and hearty American fare, Jackson’s offers a casual dining experience with an open kitchen and vibrant atmosphere.

Stark’s Steak & Seafood

Railroad Square

This classic steakhouse delivers top-quality meats and seafood in an upscale yet approachable environment, perfect for special occasions and casual dinners alike.

Spinster Sisters

South A Street Arts District

A lively neighborhood restaurant offering New American cuisine with a local, seasonal focus, served in a colorful and eclectic setting.

Thé French Laundry

Country Club Area

World-renowned for its impeccable service and “times-perfected” French-American menus, providing a dining experience like no other.

La Gare French Restaurant

Railroad Square

Family-owned and operated since 1979, La Gare specializes in traditional French cuisine and classic preparations with a modern twist.

Willie Bird’s Restaurant

Santa Rosa Avenue

Famous for its delicious turkey dishes, Willie Bird’s offers a laid-back dining atmosphere with hearty, home-style cooking.

Cree Wine Company

Graton

Not strictly a restaurant, this wine bar offers small plates and a curated wine selection, focusing on local wines in a cozy setting.

The Pharmacy

Central Santa Rosa

A local favorite for its organic juices, smoothies, and plant-based meals, The Pharmacy promotes healthy and wholesome eating.

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