Windsor, CA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Local Athletics
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Windsor is a town in Sonoma County, California's Wine Country, known for its small-town charm, historic buildings, and family-friendly parks.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The city's full official name is the Town of Windsor. It is a incorporated town located in Sonoma County, California, United States . It holds its own local government within the county structure. Sonoma County is globally renowned as a premier wine-producing region, often referred to as part of California's "Wine Country."
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Original Native American Name: The area was originally inhabited by the Southern Pomo people and was known as Tsoliikawai (ćol:ik:o=wi), meaning "blackbird field" .
- Current Name: The town was named Windsor by its first postmaster, Hiram Lewis, an English immigrant who thought the area resembled the grounds of Windsor Castle in his home country .
- Nickname: While not having an official nickname, Windsor is often described as a key part of the Russian River Valley or simply Sonoma County Wine Country.
Date of Foundation and Age
The first European settlers arrived in the area in 1851 . A post office was established in 1855, marking the official founding of the town named Windsor . As of 2026, the town is 171 years old. The town was formally incorporated much later, on July 1, 1992 .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
Windsor is located in the Russian River valley at the coordinates 38°32′50″N 122°48′59″W . It lies approximately 9 miles (14 km) north of Santa Rosa and about 63 miles (101 km) north of San Francisco . The center of town is at an elevation of 118 feet (36 m) above sea level . Geographically, it is a town situated in a fertile valley within California's Coastal Ranges.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Windsor is primarily a residential community and a service center for the surrounding agricultural area. Its economy is heavily tied to wine and agriculture, with many vineyards and wineries in the immediate vicinity . It also functions as a bedroom community for workers in nearby Santa Rosa and other parts of the North Bay. Tourism, focused on wine tasting and outdoor recreation, is a growing sector .
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of Windsor was 26,344 . This places it in the category of a small city. It is one of the many communities that make up the larger Santa Rosa metropolitan area. The population is diverse, with a significant Hispanic or Latino community making up 33.78% of residents in 2020 .
City's "Business Card" (Briefly)
Windsor offers a taste of authentic Sonoma County living. With its charming, New Urbanist Town Green, a wealth of historic buildings, and immediate access to world-class wineries and the Russian River, it's a peaceful base for exploring California's Wine Country. It's a place where visitors can experience local farmer's markets, hike in nearby regional parks, and enjoy a small-town atmosphere.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes)
- Russian River: Windsor is situated near the Russian River, a major regional waterway that contributes to the area's scenic beauty and provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing .
- Lake Sonoma: Located a short drive from Windsor, Lake Sonoma is a large reservoir offering boating, swimming, and camping facilities .
National and Regional Parks
Windsor is surrounded by several regional parks ideal for outdoor activities :
- Riverfront Regional Park: This park features easy, flat trails around a lake, suitable for a leisurely walk .
- Foothill Regional Park: Offers relatively easy hiking trails with some great views of the surrounding area .
- Shiloh Ranch Regional Park: This park provides more challenging trails with greater elevation changes and a more developed, natural feel .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Windsor has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Csb) under the Köppen–Geiger classification . It is characterized by long, warm, dry summers and short, cool, wet winters . The town enjoys an average of 3381 hours of sunshine per year .
Average Monthly Temperatures
Temperatures in Windsor are mild, with the warmest months being June, July, and August, and the coolest months being December, January, and February .
| Month | Average High (°F / °C) | Average Low (°F / °C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 58°F (14°C) | 38°F (3°C) |
| February | 62°F (16°C) | 41°F (5°C) |
| March | 65°F (18°C) | 42°F (6°C) |
| April | 70°F (21°C) | 44°F (7°C) |
| May | 76°F (24°C) | 48°F (9°C) |
| June | 82°F (28°C) | 52°F (11°C) |
| July | 84°F (29°C) | 53°F (12°C) |
| August | 84°F (29°C) | 53°F (12°C) |
| September | 83°F (28°C) | 51°F (11°C) |
| October | 76°F (24°C) | 47°F (8°C) |
| November | 65°F (18°C) | 42°F (6°C) |
| December | 57°F (14°C) | 38°F (3°C) |
*Source: Weather Spark , Nomad Season *
The hottest month is July with an average high of 84°F (29°C), and the coldest month is December with an average low of 38°F (3°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
The average annual rainfall in Windsor is around 32 inches (813 mm) , with the vast majority falling between November and April . The wettest months are typically January, February, and December, while summers are very dry, with July and August often receiving no measurable rainfall . Humidity is generally low, especially in summer.
Sun Days and UV Index
Windsor is very sunny, with the sunniest months being May, June, and July, averaging over 12 hours of sunshine per day . The UV index can reach very high to extreme levels (10-11) during the summer months of June, July, and August, necessitating sun protection .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Windsor for warm-weather activities is from mid-June to mid-September .
- Summer (June-August): Warm and dry with long, sunny days. Perfect for hiking, wine tasting, and outdoor concerts. Nights are cool.
- Fall (September-October): Warm days continue into early fall, with cooler evenings. This is harvest season in Wine Country.
- Winter (November-February): Cool and wet. This is the off-season, but the hills are green and it's a cozy time to visit wineries.
- Spring (March-May): Mild and increasingly sunny with wildflowers blooming. A beautiful time to explore the outdoors before the summer heat.
Landmarks
The Cunningham-Hembree Estate
This historic estate is the only site in Windsor listed on the National Register of Historic Places, having been added in 2018 . It comprises two key structures:
- Cunningham House (c.1850): The oldest known structure in Windsor .
- Hembree House (1931): Named "Mattapan," a Native American word meaning "I sit down" .
Windsor Historical Society & Museum
Located at 9225 Foxwood Drive, this charming small museum is housed within the Hembree Estate and offers insights into the town's past . A pleasant walking path along Windsor Creek is nearby .
Historic Downtown Buildings
The Town of Windsor has a designated list of historic landmarks, many of which are located along Windsor River Road and reflect the town's late 19th and early 20th-century history. Notable examples include :
- Masonic Temple (1898): Rebuilt after a fire in 1905 and then damaged by the 1906 earthquake before being rebuilt again .
- Odd Fellows Hall (1933): When built, it was the most substantial building in Windsor, with the lodge upstairs and a grocery store downstairs .
- Old Redwood Highway Palm Trees: A collection of 17 palm trees designated as "landmark trees" along the historic highway .
Windsor Town Green
The Windsor Town Green is the modern heart of the community, a beautifully landscaped park in the downtown core surrounded by shops and restaurants built in revival architectural styles . It's a prime example of New Urbanism and hosts free summer concerts and movies .
Shiloh Cemetery
One of Windsor's historic landmarks, Shiloh Cemetery on Windsor Road is a historic burial ground. The first burials are believed to have occurred there as early as 1836 .
Transport
Main Airports
- Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS): Located just south of Windsor, this is the closest commercial airport . It offers direct flights to several major US cities including Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Phoenix .
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK): These major international airports are approximately 1.5 to 2 hours south of Windsor, accessible via Highway 101. The Sonoma County Airport Express provides bus service between the Sonoma County Airport and SFO/OAK .
Main Railways and Stations
In a significant development for the region, the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) began passenger rail service to Windsor on May 31, 2025 . The new Windsor station connects the town to destinations throughout the North Bay, including San Rafael and Larkspur, with connections to San Francisco via ferry .
System of Public Transport
- Sonoma County Transit (SCT): Provides local bus service. Route 60 connects Windsor with Santa Rosa and Healdsburg/Cloverdale, and Route 66 offers service within Windsor .
- Bicycle and Pedestrian: Windsor is almost completely flat with sidewalks on most streets, making it very walkable. The town has also been adding bike lanes and is considered one of the best in California for getting around by bike . The SMART Multiuse Pathway, part of the future Great Redwood Trail, runs through town .
- Taxis and Ridesharing: Windsor Express Taxi serves the area, and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also fully operational .
Major Highways
- U.S. Route 101 (Redwood Highway): This major divided highway runs directly through Windsor, providing the primary vehicular access to the town and connecting it to San Francisco to the south and the California/Oregon border to the north .
- Old Redwood Highway: This road runs parallel to US 101 and was the original alignment of the highway. It is lined with many local businesses and historic sites .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Windsor’s food scene is a delightful reflection of its place in Sonoma County, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a variety of cultural influences. From award-winning barbecue to artisanal French bistros, the town offers a rich tapestry of flavors .
Award-Winning Southern Barbecue: Sweet T's Restaurant + Bar
Sweet T’s Restaurant + Bar is a Sonoma County favorite, celebrated for its authentic Southern comfort food and mouthwatering barbecue. The restaurant has received multiple awards, including the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 2023, solidifying its reputation for top-tier American fare . The menu features classics like the Cajun gumbo, catfish platter, and a standout tri-tip French dip sandwich. For a truly local experience, try their signature "Smokestack Old Fashioned," a house cocktail dramatically wreathed in cherry smoke .
Artisanal French Bistro: Maison Porcella
For a taste of Europe in the heart of Windsor, Maison Porcella is an artisanal French bistro that painstakingly crafts its offerings from locally-sourced, organic, and free-range ingredients . Owner and executive chef Jean-Baptiste studied the art of charcuterie around the world before settling in Sonoma to create this farm-to-table destination. The bistro is famed for its homemade cured meats, pâtés, and what some critics claim is Sonoma’s best Croque-Monsieur .
A Local Legend's Favorite: Tomi Thai
Tomi Thai holds a unique place in Windsor's culinary landscape as the go-to spot for Thai food for local hometown legend and celebrity chef Guy Fieri, who has admitted to regularly ordering takeout from here . This local favorite serves familiar and expertly prepared Thai classics, including spring rolls, Pad Thai, and Drunken Noodles, making it a perfect choice for a casual and delicious meal .
Himalayan and Indian Cuisine
Voted the best Indian restaurant in Sonoma County by The Press Democrat in 2023, the Himalayan Restaurant is the premier destination for Nepalese and Indian cuisine . Known for its tandoori dishes, flavorful curries like butter chicken, and garlic-basil naan, the restaurant offers adjustable spice levels to suit every palate .
The Local Sandwich Haven: West Coast Sourdough Windsor
A true local gem, West Coast Sourdough Windsor is celebrated for its delicious sandwiches, all served on freshly baked sourdough rolls . A standout item is their hearty French Dip sandwich, featuring thinly sliced roast beef, house-made sauce, and Swiss cheese on toasted sourdough with a side of rich au jus for dipping. Their New England Clam Chowder is another customer favorite, available by the bowl or in a bread bowl, providing a comforting and satisfying meal .
Further Culinary Highlights
Windsor’s diverse culinary offerings continue with Grata Italian Eatery, a staple for classic Italian fare in a family-friendly atmosphere, and KIN Windsor, which focuses on American comfort food in a family-focused setting . Pizza lovers should seek out Pizzaleah, where owner and executive pizzaiolo Leah Scurto crafts artisanal, brick-oven pizzas with local ingredients, such as their award-winning “Old Grey Beard” with Calabrian peppers and hot honey. For the freshest sushi, sashimi, and ramen, Umé | Japanese Bistro is the go-to spot .
Museums
While Windsor is a smaller town, it is home to a dedicated historical society that preserves and shares the heritage of the area.
Windsor Historical Society & Museum
The Windsor Historical Society & Museum, founded in 1989, is a non-profit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the rich history of Windsor and the Russian River township . The museum, located at 9225 Foxwood Dr, offers exhibits that showcase the region's past, from its founding families to its development . A key part of the society's mission is the preservation of historic sites, including the Hembree House Cultural Center. This center is filled with numerous artifacts from the area's founding families and also features rotating art exhibits throughout the year, making it a hub for local culture and history . The society also manages the historic Hembree House garden and Clara's Fern Garden .
Sport and Local Athletics
Windsor has a strong community sports culture, centered around its excellent parks and recreational facilities. The town also benefits from its location in a region that hosts significant sporting events.
Community Sports and Parks
The Town of Windsor's Parks and Recreation department actively manages popular adult sports leagues. The primary venues for these community sports are Keiser Park and Hiram Lewis Park, which host both Men’s and Co-Ed softball leagues in the summer and fall . These leagues are a staple of local recreation, emphasizing sportsmanship and community social interaction .
Nearby Sporting Events
Windsor's location in Sonoma County places it in proximity to cities that host major sporting events. For example, the nearby city of Windsor in Ontario, Canada (often a point of reference) recently hosted the OFSAA Swimming Championships, bringing over 2,100 high school athletes to the region . More locally, the area is known to host OFSAA provincial championships for basketball, hockey, and baseball . This influx of visitors for sporting events highlights the region's appeal and capability to host large-scale athletic competitions.
Universities and Educational Institutions
While Windsor itself does not have its own university, it is strategically located within easy driving distance of several of Northern California's most reputable higher education institutions, making it an ideal residential area for students and academics .
Sonoma State University (SSU)
Just a short drive south in Rohnert Park, Sonoma State University (SSU) is renowned for its beautiful campus, intimate class sizes, and strong community feel. It is particularly well-regarded for its liberal arts and sciences programs, with notable strengths in Business, Biology, Psychology, and Environmental Studies . The university is also recognized for its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability .
Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC)
Located in the nearby city of Santa Rosa, Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) provides accessible, high-quality education as a stepping stone for students aiming for a four-year degree or seeking vocational training. With a strong emphasis on community and diversity, SRJC offers a wide range of programs, including Culinary Arts, Engineering, and Digital Media, and has strong transfer agreements with UC, CSU, and private universities .
Dominican University of California
A bit further south in the serene city of San Rafael, Dominican University of California offers a tight-knit community with a focus on holistic education. It is known for integrating rigorous academics with real-world experiences and has notable programs in Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Business Administration .
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Windsor is well-served by medical facilities that cater to the primary and specialized healthcare needs of its residents.
Alliance Medical Clinic - Windsor Office
The Alliance Medical Clinic is a key provider of primary and urgent care in Windsor . Located at 8465 Old Redwood Highway, the clinic offers a comprehensive range of services including diabetic and hypertensive care, family planning, prenatal care, a pediatrics clinic, nutrition counseling, and chiropractic services . It also provides urgent care services without an appointment, making it an accessible option for immediate health concerns. The clinic operates on a sliding fee scale based on income and accepts various insurance plans, ensuring care is available to low-income individuals in Sonoma County .
Specialized Care: Satellite Healthcare Windsor
For residents needing specialized treatment, Satellite Healthcare Windsor provides in-center hemodialysis services . Located at 8911 Lakewood Dr, this facility is part of a larger network offering comprehensive kidney treatment options for those with chronic kidney conditions .
Proximity to Major Medical Centers
Windsor's location in Sonoma County also offers the advantage of being close to world-class medical centers in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. For instance, the world-renowned University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center is within accessible distance for highly specialized care not available in a small town. While not in Windsor, such institutions represent the broader healthcare ecosystem available to its residents.