Art, Architecture (+ Wine): A Northern California Design Tour


Saturday, June 14, 2025
Category: Center for A+D
Image Courtesy of Oliver Ranch

Indulge in an unforgettable day in the heart of Sonoma County to support the Center for Architecture + Design. Join us for an extraordinary tour of exploring the convergence of art, architecture and the natural landscape in Win Country.

The day will begin with a guided tour of the renowned Oliver Ranch. A private, 100-acre property that has been transformed into a harmonious outdoor museum. Oliver Ranch is home to an extraordinary collection of 18 site-specific installations by some of the world’s most celebrated contemporary artists - including Ann Hamilton, Bruce Nauman and Richard Serra. Curated by Steve Oliver over the past 35 years, each installation is carefully woven into the natural landscape. The Ranch offers a unique exploration of contemporary art that is deeply integrated into this environment. 

Following the two and half hour guided tour of Oliver Ranch, indulge in an afternoon at Medlock Ames Organic Vineyard at Bell Mountain Ranch. Nestled at the intersection of Alexander Valley and Russian River Valley, the 338-acre estate is known for its commitment to sustainability, thoughtful land stewardship and modernist design approach.

Enjoy a picnic lunch, stroll and tour through the natice garden landscapes and historic structure, and experience a curated wine tasting of estate grown wines that embody the ethos of site-specific cultivation.

Proceeds from this event benefit the Center for Architecture + Design, supporting our mission to advance public appreciation for architecture, design, and the built environment through engaging programs and exhibitions.

Image Courtesy of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects

The Oliver Ranch tour is currently not ADA accessible, please see Oliver Ranch Tour Information for more.

Registration Options

Credits Price
Oliver Ranch + Medlock Ames
$260.00

We will be releasing event details to ticket holders a week in advance. 

  1. This tour is not appropriate for everyone. We do not recommend it for anyone with mobility issues. This is a 2.5 hour hike that covers 2.5 miles of rugged terrain with up and down in elevation. It can be a little strenuous in a couple of spots. Those on the tour will need to be able to hike up and down hills. Weather will also be a factor. The paths can be slippery in some areas. We recommend that anyone who goes on this tour to be able to wear hiking shoes. No sandals or heels.
  2. There are no public restrooms at Oliver Ranch. A restroom will be available at our meeting point before the tour
  3. Because of the rugged terrain and elevation variances, this tour is not handicap accessible. A plan is being worked on to change this.
  4. No food (e.g., boxed lunches or picnics) is permitted on Oliver Ranch. We will provide plastic water bottles but we encourage you to bring your own. 
  5. Smoking is prohibited while on the Ranch property.
  6. You cannot gain access to Oliver Ranch with out a docent present so it is imperative that you arrive to the pick up spot on time to board the bus for group transport up to the Ranch.
  7. Still photography is allowed. Video is only allowed when Steve and/or docents are not speaking
  8. No pets.