Neighborhoods
In the heart of Santa Rosa, the Downtown District is surrounded by neighborhoods filled with character and history.
This is the place to stay connected.
The SOFA Arts District
Located southeast of the Downtown District, the SOFA Arts District - short for South of A Street - is a creative neighborhood just south of downtown Santa Rosa, known for its artist studios, galleries, cafés, and eclectic local shops. As one of Sonoma County’s largest concentrations of working artists, the district hosts First Friday art walks, open studios, and annual events like WinterBlast. With its vibrant energy and strong sense of community, SOFA is a cultural hub where art, small business, and local culture come together.
Historic Railroad Square
Located to the west of the Downtown District, Historic Railroad Square is a charming and walkable old‑town district that celebrates its rich railroad heritage and offers a lively mix of dining, shopping, entertainment, and culture. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the neighborhood features restored brick buildings now home to boutiques, cafés, galleries, and local gathering spaces. With its historic charm, vibrant atmosphere, and proximity to the SMART station and Wine Country, Railroad Square remains a lively hub for visitors and locals alike.
Cherry Street Neighborhood
Located just north of the Downtown District, the Cherry Street Neighborhood is a historic residential area in Santa Rosa known for its tree-lined streets, classic homes, and strong community feel. Featuring Craftsman bungalows, cottages, and Mediterranean-style homes, the neighborhood offers timeless charm and walkable access to downtown, parks, schools, and local events. With its peaceful atmosphere and convenient location, Cherry Street remains one of Santa Rosa’s most desirable neighborhoods.
West End
A twenty minute walk from the Downtown District, the West End neighborhood is a historic, close-knit district just northwest of downtown Santa Rosa, known for its early-20th-century bungalows, tree-lined streets, and strong community spirit. Rich in Italian-American heritage, the neighborhood centers around the restored DeTurk Round Barn, a popular gathering place for events and markets. With local cafés, walkable streets, and preserved historic charm, the West End offers a welcoming neighborhood feel close to downtown attractions.
McDonald Historic District
Just a 15 minute walk from the Downtown District, the McDonald Historic District is one of Santa Rosa’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods, known for its tree-lined streets and elegant Victorian, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival homes. Located just northeast of downtown, the walkable neighborhood offers easy access to Courthouse Square while maintaining a peaceful residential atmosphere. Blending historic charm with urban convenience, the district remains one of Santa Rosa’s most admired places to live and explore.
The JC
About one mile from the Downtown District, the neighborhood surrounding Santa Rosa Junior College, known locally as “the JC,” is a walkable and highly desirable area just east of downtown. Centered around the college’s scenic, park-like campus, the neighborhood blends historic homes, student energy, and a strong sense of community. With a mix of families, students, and longtime residents, the area offers a vibrant yet welcoming atmosphere, along with easy access to downtown Santa Rosa, local events, shops, and cafés.
MidTown
Located to the east of the Downtown District, the MidTown neighborhood includes Fremont Park and beloved local businesses like Foster's Freeze and Johnny’s Donuts. Popular restaurants like The Bird & The Bottle and boutique shops make this neighborhood both centrally located and a great place to visit.