by C. A. Pruit

Created on: January 31, 2009

If you are looking for a great place to take your family on vacation, how about visiting the home of Charlie Brown and Snoopy? Or if you enjoy flowers and plants, how about touring the home of modern botany, the Luther Burbank museum. You can find all this and more in the often overlooked town of Santa Rosa, California!

Just an hours drive north of San Francisco sits one of the most inviting and historical places around. Santa Rosa is also within easy reach of both the Pacific Ocean and the Napa Valley. You will find many interesting sights to fulfill your vacation plans.

Charles M. Schultz Museum:

Imagine entering a museum filled with the works and creations of the man who invented the famous Peanuts comic strip. Opened in 1997, admission is free and gives a glimpse into the world of the famous man and his creation. Upstairs you will find the study of Charles Schultz and with over 3000 black and white peanuts strips on the walls, you're sure to find something to laugh about.

Luther Burbank Home and Gardens:

The family residence from 1884 until 1906, this is the home where Luther and Elizabeth Burbank began their work. After Luther died in 1926, Elizabeth moved back into the cottage until her death in 1977. Upon her death, the home was given to the city of Santa Rosa and was established as a museum to honor the great scientist. Open from April through October of each year, admission is free. The hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00am until 4:00pm. You will see not only the famous home, but also his greenhouse and gardens.

Safari West:

Visit an African Wildlife Preserve located in Santa Rosa. Here you will see native African wildlife such as cheetahs, giraffes, antelopes and all kinds of exotic birds. Have your picture taken with the animals or experience what it's like to go on safari.

Santa Rosa is also filled with museums, orchestras, art exhibits and much more. It is also very close to over 32 local wineries, as well as the gateway to the Redwood National Forest. If you would like to spend some time at the beach, Santa Rosa is just a half hours drive from the Pacific Ocean.

The city also has great weather which invites year-round entertainment and a warm welcoming enviroment. If you have a family, this is the place to come for that great getaway vacation. Make plans to experience a fun-filled adventure with your family. You won't soon forget this trip.

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