Just north of San Francisco, Sonoma County is known for its verdant vineyards, vibrant coastal beauty, and towering Redwoods, all wrapped up in spectacular California sunshine. Santa Rosa sits in the heart of this oasis as a hub of music, art, and tantalizing wineries. But while there is already plenty to explore in this delightful cultural mecca, Santa Rosa is also home to one of the most special museums in the entire state: the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center. The community's beloved "Snoopy Museum" is a uniquely stunning tribute to Schulz and his cartoonist career, but it's so much more than a simple homage to the iconic Peanuts Gang! Whether your first visit or your 100th, the massive 27,000 square foot complex has plenty of magic to discover and is the perfect family activity. Check it out:

From the massive ceramic tile mural composed of nearly 4,000 comic strips to the life-sized Charlie Brown characters that welcome visitors around every corner, the Charles M. Schulz Museum is a true work of art inside and out.

Since 2002, this beloved Snoopy museum has educated and delighted all ages with its bright, modern, and diverse displays that celebrate the beloved characters of "Peanuts" and the life of the man who created them.

The evolution of Schulz's signature style, the growth and cultural phenomenon of Charlie Brown and his friends, and even how Peanuts navigated major American historical moments are all showcased here in creative and interactive ways.

Of the nearly 18,000 comic strips that Schulz drew in his lifetime, about one-third of them are on display at the museum in rotating exhibits and in various murals and creative displays. How many of them do you think you'll recognize from the Sunday paper?

Some of the permanent displays include a sweet nursery wall that Schulz painted in his home in 1951, an impressive 100-seat theater that plays animated Peanuts specials and programs, a re-creation of Schulz's drawing studio, and so much more.

Schulz's original studio was actually located at the nearby ice rink, where he drew up his beloved comic characters every week for nearly 50 years.

But there's more than just history within these walls! Art is a fixture here, and the museum itself is located just across the street from Snoopy's Gallery and Gift Shop, the Warm Puppy Café, and Snoopy's Home Ice rink, as well.

Whimsy and familiarity are everywhere you turn.

But even decades-long Peanuts fans will learn something new. You'll also be introduced to some new characters that you might not have heard of before.

You'll definitely want to explore in every direction - you'll find surprises in the unlikeliest of places!

Special events, cartoon workshops, and children's programs are all available at the museum, as well, truly honoring Schulz's commitment to creativity and childhood education.

The stunning courtyard is as peaceful as it is gorgeous!

After a full day of exploring, learning, and enjoying the many interactive exhibits, head over to the Warm Puppy Café for an ice cream cone - Charles Schulz, himself, loved to dine here! While you're there, take a few spins at the ice rink (which Schulz funded) or browse the Charles Schulz Museum Gift Shop for a souvenir.

It's the sweetest way to end this trip down memory lane!

While not officially owned by the museum, your visit to Santa Rosa and the Charles M. Schulz Museum should definitely include a walking tour to find all of the Peanuts statues that dot downtown. This iconic Peanuts haven is an integral part of the community, and we absolutely love the heart behind every comic strip and art installment!

If you've ever visited Santa Rosa's beloved Snoopy museum, we'd love to hear about it in the comments.

For more family-friendly things to do in Northern California, check out these easy, kid-approved hikes.