We’ve lined up a fantastic selection of excursions for each day of the convention—there’s truly something for everyone! Some are long-time favorites, while others are exciting new additions. A few are designed specifically for companions who may not be attending clinics but anyone is welcome to join.
Please note that some excursions require personal transportation. In many cases, carpooling with fellow attendees is an option—be sure to check the Information Board at the convention for details.
Depot Tour: A Journey Through Sonoma County’s Railroad History
Thursday, April 30 1:30pm – 5:30pm
Fee: $35 per person
Hop aboard a private bus for a scenic ride through Sonoma County as we visit five beautifully restored historic train depots. Bring your camera and enjoy the unique architecture, rich history, and creative repurposing of these iconic buildings:
Petaluma Depot (NP) – now the Petaluma Visitors Center
Sonoma Depot (SP) – now the Depot Park Museum
Kenwood Depot (SP) – now an event center
Santa Rosa Depot (NWP) – now the Santa Rosa Visitors Center
Sebastopol Depot (P&SR) – now the West County MuseumTransportation is provided. Space is limited.
Korbel Winery Tour: History, Bubbles & Redwoods*
Thursday, April 30 9:30am – 1:30pm
Fee: $60 per person
Travel through the majestic redwoods to visit one of California’s most historic wineries—Korbel. During the guided tour, you’ll discover the fascinating story of the Korbel family, learn how their renowned California Champagne is crafted, and hear the history of the Korbel Train Station.
Following the tour, enjoy a private tasting of Korbel’s wines and champagnes.
Transportation is provided, but space is limited.*Companion Activity
Russian River Rail Bikes – Ride the NWP Rails
Thursday, April 30 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Friday, May 1 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Fee: $35 per person
Experience the scenic beauty and rich history of the old rail line around Cloverdale on a guided railbike adventure. You’ll ride in a group, led and followed by volunteers from the Golden Gate Railroad Museum, who ensure a safe and enjoyable journey while sharing fascinating stories of the railway’s past.
The people-powered railbike ride begins in Cloverdale, CA, and heads north along a route that includes a tunnel, bridge, and a picturesque area at the turnaround point beside the Russian River. The group departs together, with a guide in both the lead and rear railbikes for support and narration for the 90-minute ride.
Get ready for a memorable ride through history and nature!
Please Note: Attendees must provide their own transportation to Cloverdale. It’s approximately 38 miles from the hotel. A ticket is required to ride. Sturdy shoes are recommended and bike helmets will be provided. Participants will be required to sign a waiver of liability.
Western Railway Museum Train and Tour
Friday, May 1 11:00am – 5:00pm
Fee: $50 per person
After a relaxing bus ride, enjoy a picnic lunch at Laflin Park, located on the beautiful grounds of the museum. Then step back in time with a 50-minute interurban train ride along the historic Sacramento Northern Railroad, an electric line that once connected San Francisco, Sacramento, and Chico.
This 11-mile round trip winds through the unspoiled farmland of Solano County, offering scenic views of Mount Diablo and the surrounding marshlands.
Following the ride, you’ll be dropped off at Carhouse #3 for a guided tour of the museum’s impressive indoor storage facility, home to the crown jewels of their collection. You’ll also have time to explore Carhouse #1, an open-air display of historic Bay Area streetcars, as well as the Visitor Center’s exhibits and gift shop.
It’s a memorable day of history and scenery!Transportation and lunch are provided but space it limited.
Luther Burbank Home and Gardens*
Saturday, May 2 10:00am – 12:00pm
Fee: $12 per person
Meet at the site for a guided tour of the Luther Burbank Home, featuring original furnishings, the historic Greenhouse, a portion of the Gardens, and an overview of Burbank’s remarkable life and contributions to horticulture. After the tour, you’ll have some time to explore the rest of the gardens at your own pace.
Please Note: Transportation is on your own. Tour is limited to 25 people and you must have a ticket to participate. Directions to the site will be provided with ticket.
*Companion Activity
Sturgeon’s Mill
Saturday, May 2 1:30pm – 3:30pm
Fee: $35 per person
Back by Popular Demand!
Journey through the stunning redwoods to visit one of the last remaining steam-powered lumber mills still in operation. This 107-year-old mill, run entirely by dedicated volunteers, will be open exclusively for 2026 Convention attendees.
Bring a lunch and enjoy the scenic picnic area before the tour.
Don’t miss this unique and memorable experience!
Please note: Attendees must provide their own transportation to the Mill. It is approximately 24 miles from the hotel. A ticket is required to attend.
Tour NWP Restoration Yard and Barn
Saturday, May 2 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Fee: $10 per person
NPW has agreed to open their restoration yard and barn for attendees to tour the various cars they are restoring.
Please note: This tour is limited to 30 people and attendees must provide their own transportation to the site. It is approximately 16 miles from the hotel. A ticket is required for admittance.
