I stayed in Santa Rosa last August through Priceline, had been a private hotel but had recently become a Sheraton or Marriott, can't remember. Anyway, Santa Rosa was a GREAT location, especially if you are thinking of going to the Russian River and/or Alexander Valley wineries. I actually had more fun in these areas than in Napa and Sonoma. I'd say Santa Rosa is about 15-20 min from Sonoma vineyards, and about 30 min from Napa. Of course to the towns Napa and Sonoma would be further, maybe 45 to either.