MacArthur Place has been a part of the Sonoma landscape since 1869, when it was created as a private estate. The property was eventually converted into an inn, but its latest iteration as a luxe yet low-key hotel is definitely the best thus far. MacArthur Place reopened over the summer after undergoing a meticulous $25 million renovation, but the hotel, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary, still maintains all its historical charm.
The hotel is now composed of 64 rooms, all freshly remodeled, as well as a new restaurant and bar. The hotel is situated less than a five-minute walk away from Sonoma Plaza, and it’s the ideal spot for a relaxed, easygoing trip to wine country, with all the amenities you’d want from a luxury spot sans the fuss. We were especially fond of the custom candle scent that permeates the air—the fragrance of wood, matcha green tea and lily, dubbed The MacArthur Place, is a collaboration with Lola James Harper.
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Here’s everything to know about the stylish addition to the Sonoma hotel landscape.
All of the Cottage-Style Rooms Are Uniquely Designed
None of the guest rooms, which range from $409 to $959 a night, are exactly the same. They’re spread throughout the property, within mini cottage-style buildings, and feature custom furnishings with a modern style that also showcases a farmhouse chic vibe, like barn doors to the bathrooms—think lots of neutrals and plush, comfy materials. Guests also get a Petite Amie Skincare mask as part of turndown service. We recommend splurging on one of the premium rooms, like the Jasmine Cottage, which is completely private and has a wood-burning fireplace, personal patio and an outdoor shower, plus a seating area. Temperatures drop in wine country, so unlike many hotels with fireplaces, you’ll actually want to use this one in the coziest way possible.
Dine on Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes at Layla
The main restaurant, Layla, opened a few months ago with executive chef Cole Dickinson at the helm. The Mediterranean-inspired cuisine is filled with lots of fresh, local ingredients, with plenty of options for any kind of eater—there’s even a vegan bolognese, which we recommend even if you’re not on a plant-based diet. Try to sit outside if you’re having dinner there, because it’s an ultra cozy situation by the fire pit at night.
Or Go for a Classic Wine Country Meal and Drink at The Bar
The Bar is a more traditional wine country spot, at least in terms of decor—there are wood accents, big cushy chairs and leather couches, with lots of counter seating as well as dimly lit booths. The menu includes steak frites, hamburgers and fried chicken sandwiches, as well as seasonal options. Both dining spots have the expected wonderful wine lists, but there are also quite a few cocktails to consider, like the Sunflower Spritz. The Bar also holds weekly live music performances on Wednesdays, starting at 6 p.m.
If you’re looking to grab a quick coffee or a snack while running around Sonoma, or perhaps taking one of the hotel’s electric bikes into the Plaza, stop at The Porch, which is open all day and, aside from coffee, is also stocked with sandwiches and other small bites.
Cozy Up at the Fire Pits and Check Out the Custom Art
The landscaping and public spaces at the six-acre property are just as carefully designed as the accommodations; there are endless gardens, flowers and greenery as you stroll through the grounds, with fire pits and chairs strategically placed so guests can cozy around the flames. There are over 100 uniquely selected pieces of art throughout the hotel, and they also have an artist-in-residence program—the first was Kelley O’Leary, who created a custom piece for the lobby that’s inspired by Sonoma and features images of MacArthur Place. Next up is Aleksandra Zee, who is working on a ceiling mural for the hotel.
Live Your Best Vineyard Life on a Day Tour Filled With Vino
MacArthur Place has a partnership with a local vineyard tour company, Bohemian Highways, for an exclusive custom itinerary based on all your requests and preferences. You’ll visit at least two or three wineries, chat with the local vineyard owners, dine on a picnic lunch made just to your liking and, of course, try plenty of vino. Spend some relaxation time at the pool once you get back to MacArthur Place, where you can order a few snacks and maybe just one more glass of wine.
A Brand-New Spa Is Opening Next Year
There’s still more to come next year at the hotel, as MacArthur Place is unveiling a plushly renovated, reimagined spa in 2020. The Spa at MacArthur Place will be a more lavish set-up from the current wellness facilities; the new design is inspired by the wine country locale. It’s in partnership with Lotus Wei and will offer treatments rooted in fruits, flowers, teas and herbs.