About Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa
Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa Santa Rosa Sonoma (Tapestry by Hilton) is a 4-star midcentury-modern hotel and event venue in Santa Rosa’s wine country. Opened in 1957 by developer Hugh Codding, it was inspired by the famous Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas. (www.pressdemocrat.com ) (champagneliving.net ) Designed by architect Homer Rissman in a rare “hub-and-spoke” layout, the resort’s four wings surround a central courtyard and distinctive S-shaped pool (www.pressdemocrat.com ) (patch.com ). Its towering neon sign (featuring a stylized flamingo) has been a local landmark since 1997 (www.pressdemocrat.com ) (patch.com ). After decades of hosting Hollywood stars (Jayne Mansfield and Frank Sinatra), sports banquets and radio station KSRO in the 1960s, Flamingo fell into disrepair and changed hands. The Ehret family acquired it in 1978, and a $20 million renovation was completed in 2021 to restore its classic look (www.pressdemocrat.com ) (champagneliving.net ). Today the 170-room resort blends preserved retro elements (wood, glass, stone accents and vintage phone fixtures) with modern comforts, earning praise for maintaining that nostalgic vibe (www.pressdemocrat.com ) (champagneliving.net ). Set on a lush 10-acre campus (complete with tennis courts, fitness center and a spa), Flamingo Resort is known for its award-winning pool and resort amenities. In fact, local publications vote it “Best Resort & Spa” and “Best Event Production” in Sonoma County (www.flamingoresort.com ) (www.cvent.com ). Its full-service spa, hotel rooms, pool and large function spaces make it both a retreat and a town gathering place. As Sonoma’s only certified green lodging property (www.cvent.com ), it blends historic character with a contemporary wine-country resort atmosphere.
Events and Programming
Flamingo Resort is not just a getaway for travelers – it’s an active entertainment hub. Its centerpiece is Vintage Space , a retro-futuristic nightclub that books live music and shows nearly every week (www.flamingoresort.com ). Programming ranges from tribute bands and DJ dance parties to comedy nights and themed pool events. For example, summer 2023 lineups included “Temptation” (an ’80s/New Order tribute band) on a Friday and weekly “Sundays @ the Pool” DJ sessions (www.vintagespacesr.com ) (www.vintagespacesr.com ). Tribute acts perform regularly (e.g. “San Fran Halen,” a Van Halen tribute band, and Ariel Marin’s Sade tribute in August 2023 (www.vintagespacesr.com ) (www.vintagespacesr.com )). Other recent bookings (as advertised by the resort) have included Latin nights, bachata dance parties, and cabaret-style drag brunches on select Sundays (www.vintagespacesr.com ) (www.vintagespacesr.com ). Thursdays are comedy nights (“Don’t Tell Santa Rosa” live comedy in the Vintage Space lounge (www.flamingoresort.com )). In addition to nightlife, Flamingo hosts special annual events with broad appeal: for instance, it was the full-site venue for “Resort-O-Rama” (March 2023), a 4-day convention celebrating mid-century modern design, fashion, music and tiki culture (www.pressdemocrat.com ) (www.pressdemocrat.com ). The resort also runs seasonal promotions – holiday parties, New Year’s Eve galas (recently a Miami Vice-themed NYE bash (www.flamingoresort.com )), daily afternoon teas, yoga/stretch classes, and group wellness retreats – so the calendar stays busy year-round. Event ticket prices vary widely: casual lounge shows often have modest cover charges (historical local flyers show concerts around $10–$15 (www.sfgate.com )), while full conferences or holiday packages can cost $100+ (Resort-O-Rama multi-event passes ran several hundred dollars (www.pressdemocrat.com )). In all cases, the resort tends to bundle tickets with stays through its “Stay & Show” promo (attendees knowing it can cut about 20–30% off room rates (vintagespacesr.com )).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Flamingo Resort shows are usually sold through the venue’s own channels. The Vintage Space club has an official box office on its website, and many events are listed on ticketing platforms like Eventbrite or the resort’s mail announcement list. To secure seats, it’s best to buy in advance – popular weekends and holiday shows can sell out early. The site encourages signing up for newsletters to get early-access announcements and presales (www.vintagespacesr.com ). In practice, fans either purchase online or call the hotel’s front desk for event info (the main number is 707-545-8530). Some events may have tickets available at the door if not sold out, but for big shows and conventions, online purchase is safest. Pricing is set by event: inexpensive covers ($10–$20) are common for local band shows (www.sfgate.com ), while higher-end live acts, multi-day festivals or packaged dinner parties run significantly more. The resort does not use third-party dealers, so always buy from official sources. Group bookings and private events are handled through the Flamingo’s sales team – it offers packaged rates if you reserve a block of hotel rooms along with event space. Lastly, standard hotel policies apply: if you book a stay, incidentals and spa services will be held on your card (www.flamingoresort.com ), and check-in is after 4 PM, check-out noon.
Seating and Layout
The Flamingo’s performance areas are intimate and informal by design. Vintage Space is essentially a club lounge, so most concerts are general-admission standing-room (with a few high-tops or benches around the edges). For music and dance events, arriving early and grabbing a spot near the stage or by the bar is ideal. The stage is at one end of the lounge with the bar on the opposite wall, and low lighting give it a nightclub vibe. Balcony or tiered seating is not used – the crowd stands on a single floor, so if you need a seat, plan to scoot to the back or along a side wall. Pool parties and outdoor events are open-air: the grassy lawn, cabanas and raised patio offer island-style lounging during DJ sessions or afternoon shows. Flamingo’s grand ballroom (the Aviary/Palm rooms) holds up to ~436 theatre-style seats (www.flamingoresort.com ) or 340 dining guests, making it suitable for banquets and conferences as well. (It subdivides into the “Palm” and “Aviary” sections with moveable walls.) Another event room, the 1,920 sq ft Vintage Space (as per the Hilton property specs), can host about 120 in a theatre setup or ~200 standing (www.hilton.com ) – which matches the lounge’s max capacity. When planning a concert visit, consider these tips: if you prefer dancing or an energetic crowd, stand up front; if you want to chat or sip quietly, hang by a table at the back or by the bar. Avoid lingering right at the door or bathroom queue during performances, as sound and visibility are better closer to the stage. The ballroom and meeting rooms likewise are arranged in traditional conference or banquet layout (classroom tables, banquet rounds, U-shape, etc.) with decent sightlines to the stage/podium. (The high 16-foot ceilings in the main rooms allow good acoustics and projection.)
Getting There and Parking
The Flamingo Resort is located at 2777 4th Street in east Santa Rosa (near the Alta Vista neighborhood) – about 3 miles from downtown and 10 miles from the Sonoma County Airport. Major routes: from US-101, take the “Santa Rosa Ave / Alameda” exit, then east on 4th St; or off Highway 12 (from west), go north on Farmers Lane then East 4th St. The resort’s historic neon sign and porte-cochère entry make it easy to spot. Driving is easiest: there is ample on-site parking (over 200 spaces) and it is free for resort guests (en.parkopedia.com ). Monteparking is self-park style (no valet), and guests pay no fee beyond the hotel’s resort fee. If the lot fills, some street parking and nearby private lots (e.g. Flamingo Shopping Center) are less than a block away. Rideshare/Taxi drop-off (Uber/Lyft) is convenient at the hotel entrance on 4th St. Public transit is limited; the nearest bus stop is a half-mile away. The Sonoma County Airport (STS) is about 9 miles southwest (www.hilton.com ), but no hotel shuttle is provided. Travelers often taxi or rent a car. For those flying in from afar, San Francisco or Oakland airports are ~70 miles away via I-80 and US-101, so allow 1.5–2 hours driving. In Santa Rosa itself, ride-share cars are readily available, and city buses run on main streets (though likely a 15-minute walk from any stop at 4th St). If coming by private shuttle or coach, coordinate with the resort’s front desk for drop-off points (they handle special transportation on request). The location is car-centric, so allow time for area traffic during peak (commute or fair hours). Overall, map your route ahead, and know that parking is straightforward – just pull in to the Flamingo lot and head to the lobby or event space.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests usually enter through the Flamingo’s renovated lobby (featuring a large mid-century mural and 1950s-era decor) and check in with staff or show tickets. Expect a security check for all evenings events: small bags may be inspected and outside alcohol will be confiscated. Most events are 21+ (ID required at the door), so be prepared to show valid ID. Once inside the Vintage Space lounge or ballroom, the mood is retro-casual and lively. The Vintage Space bar serves a full menu of cocktails (often tropical or tiki-inspired) and beer/wine, while the adjacent Lazeaway Club restaurant serves Asian-Hawaiian fusion fare throughout the day (champagneliving.net ). If you arrive early, the outdoor pool area has cabanas and a snack bar for poolside drinks and small plates (the resort’s wellness gliders roam with drink service in summer). Restrooms are indoors near the lobby and off the main event rooms. There is no coat check, so guests usually keep personal items with them or in their vehicles. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property (guests receive network info at check-in). Cell signal is generally good in the area, so mobile ticket scans work fine. The Vintage Space stage has professional lighting and PA for concerts and comedy. In short: the vibe is upbeat but not pretentious – feel free to dress smart-casual or themed when appropriate (e.g. for 1960s dance nights). The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive. Security and staff are attentive if you have questions (source staff for info on coat hooks or seating at crowded events). Note that official photos are often taken at these events, so if you prefer not to appear, remain aware of cameras in the lounge (vintagespacesr.com ). But otherwise you’re welcome to take personal photos or videos – just no commercial filming. During the event, enjoy the retro lighting and speaker mix; the Flamingo’s A/V team earned local awards for production (www.flamingoresort.com ), so the sound and lights are typically high-quality. After a show or late-night comedy, the quiet poolside firepits or lobby lounge areas are nice spots to unwind before departing or heading upstairs to your room.
Nearby Amenities
The Flamingo sits across the street from a small shopping center. Literally next door are a CVS pharmacy and a Safeway grocery store (helpful for last-minute supplies or snacks) (champagneliving.net ). That plaza also has several quick-serve eateries (coffee shops, taquerias, casual grills) in case you want a bite before an event. Inside the resort, the Lazeaway Club restaurant and bar is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner – it’s a tropical tiki-themed space with Asian-fusion dishes, so dining on-site is easy (champagneliving.net ). For evening entertainment beyond Flamingo’s own stage, downtown Santa Rosa (3 mi west) has artsy galleries and breweries (Russian River Brewing Co., Third Street Aleworks, etc.), plus bars, wine-tasting rooms and a craft cocktail scene. The up-and-coming Railroad Square historic district (a short drive) offers gastropubs and wine bars in refurbished warehouses. If staying overnight, other lodging is mostly downtown (Marriott, Hyatt) or smaller motels; but many event-goers simply book the Flamingo itself for convenience. In summary, between the resort’s on-site dining and the nearby shops along 4th Street, visitors have plenty of pre-show dinner and late-night food options within a few minutes’ walk. Rideshares run all night along Fourth St, so late-night transit (back to Santa Rosa center or further afield) is also readily available easily from the resort entrance.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several features give Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa its unique character. Architecturally, it is one of the last surviving examples of mid-century “wagon-wheel” hotels built by renowned Vegas architect Homer Rissman (patch.com ). Its design – rustic stone walls juxtaposed with floor-to-ceiling glass, sweeping curves and open-air corridors – epitomizes postwar modernism (patch.com ). The landmark neon signage (echoing Las Vegas style) sets it apart from other North Bay venues (patch.com ) (www.pressdemocrat.com ). Historically, the hotel brought Hollywood Las Vegas glamour to Sonoma: its guest book included entertainers like Jayne Mansfield and Frank Sinatra, and it hosted sports legends at charity balls (www.pressdemocrat.com ) (champagneliving.net ). Culturally, the Flamingo plays a role in preserving local heritage: the city designated its iconic sign a landmark in 1997, and the property is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places (www.pressdemocrat.com ). The resort’s revived midcentury decor has reignited interest in 1950s-60s style – for example, the biannual “Resort-O-Rama” convention celebrates this era, fittingly held on these original grounds (www.pressdemocrat.com ). Moreover, the Flamingo has become a centerpiece of Santa Rosa nightlife, filling a previous void for late-night music and dance (something residents note was missing after the loss of other clubs). Its owner, Pierre Ehret, is a local philanthropist, and the resort frequently supports community causes. Overall, Flamingo’s blend of retro glamour, award-winning amenities and a show-business legacy makes it stand out as a memorable Sonoma Wine Country destination, beloved by visitors and locals alike (www.cvent.com ) (www.pressdemocrat.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Flamingo’s common areas and event spaces are wheelchair accessible (www.cvent.com ). (The Vintage Space and main ballroom are on the ground floor with ramp access.) If mobility assistance is needed, contact the resort in advance to ensure any accommodations.
What to bring: Always carry a valid photo ID for 21+ events. Bring some cash or card for drinks and tips (many guests still tip bartenders). Small bags are fine, but large backpacks or coolers are usually prohibited at concerts.
Weather: Outdoor pool events require sun protection (sunscreen, hat) in summer. Evenings can be cool, so a sweater is nice for open-air patios.
Arriving: Doors typically open 30–60 minutes before a show; arriving earlier guarantees closer spots. The resort is family-friendly until dinner time, but note that Vintage Space shows are strictly 21+ (as mentioned on signs).
Dress code: Most events are casual or festive. Some DJ nights or themed parties may encourage retro attire, but no formal dress is needed unless specified.
Communication: Wi-Fi is free for registered hotel guests; event attendees can use cell phone networks. (Reception is generally good.)
Tricks: Check the official Flamingo website or Vintage Space social media for daily schedules (some morning classes or afternoon teas are password-free). Signing up for the Flamingo mailing list can unlock special promotions.
Age policy: Unless an event is explicitly all-ages, expect a 21-and-over policy (signage at the door). If coming with younger friends, verify age rules first.
Smoking: All indoor areas are non-smoking. If allowed outdoors, use designated areas only.
Nearby waiting: If you arrive early or leave late, enjoy the lobby lounge or poolside firepits with provided seating; the hotel bar stays open late for a nightcap.
Where is Flamingo Conference Resort & Spa located, and how do I get there?
Flamingo Resort and Spa is at 2777 4th Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, in east Santa Rosa. It’s about 3 miles from downtown. To drive, take US-101 to the Santa Rosa Avenue/Alameda exit and head east. There is ample on-site parking. The resort is a ten-minute drive from the Sonoma County Airport (STS); from there, use a taxi or rideshare. Public transit is limited – a city bus route on Fourth Street stops roughly half a mile away. Taxis/Ubers are readily available to drop you off at the resort entrance.
What is the capacity of the Flamingo’s event spaces?
The Flamingo has about 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space. The main ballroom (split into “Palm” and “Aviary”) is ~5,467 sq ft and can seat ~436 theatre-style or 270 for plated dinners (www.flamingoresort.com ). The Vintage Space lounge (1,920 sq ft) holds roughly 120 theatre-style or up to ~200 standing (www.hilton.com ). Smaller breakout rooms (710–1,900 sq ft) can accommodate 50–130 people for meetings or banquets. Overall, large conferences can serve several hundred attendees across its rooms.
How can I buy tickets for shows and events at the Flamingo?
Tickets are sold through official channels only. The Vintage Space events page (on the resort’s website) will have links to buy tickets online (often via Eventbrite or the resort’s own system). Some events may allow walk-up purchase at the door if not sold out. For guaranteed access, buy online in advance as soon as tickets go on sale. You can also call the hotel’s box office/guest services at (707) 545-8530 for information. Avoid third-party sellers; always confirm the event date, time, and venue when purchasing.
Can I purchase tickets at the Flamingo’s box office or at the door?
Yes, if an event is not sold out, tickets may be available at the door (the front desk or Vintage Space door) on show day. However, there is no widely advertised separate box office location, so best practice is to buy tickets in advance online. For popular acts, shows may sell out weeks ahead, so do not rely on door sales for big events. If you have questions, call the resort’s front desk – they can advise on door availability.
What are typical ticket prices for Flamingo events?
Ticket prices vary by event. Nightly club shows and local band concerts often have low cover charges (around $10–$20 (www.sfgate.com )). Weekly comedy shows or simple tribute nights can be in that range. Larger performances or themed parties (e.g. drag brunch, holiday gala) cost more, sometimes $30–$50 or higher. Multi-day conferences or private parties at the resort are priced much higher. Look up the specific event on the Flamingo’s calendar for its price, and note that any fees or service charges are included at checkout. Seasonal packages (room+event bundles) may also alter the per-ticket cost.
What transportation and parking options are available?
On-site parking is plentiful and free for guests – there’s a self-parking lot of about 220 spaces next to the resort (en.parkopedia.com ). No valet fee is charged (parking is treated as covered by the resort fee). Street parking on 4th Street is limited. If you arrive by taxi or rideshare, drop-off is at the main porte-cochère on 4th St. Public transit options are sparse: there is a CityBus route along 4th St, but no direct shuttle. Taxis and Uber/Lyft are usually the most convenient way to/from the airport or downtown. The nearest airport (STS – Sonoma County) is ~9 miles away (www.hilton.com ). No hotel shuttle is provided, so plan to drive or taxi from any airport.
Are Flamingo events restricted to adults, or are children allowed?
Most evening/nighttime shows at Flamingo (especially in Vintage Space) are 21+ events – only adults with valid ID may enter. This includes concerts, comedy, and drag brunch performances. (This policy is typically noted on event flyers or at the door.) The resort itself is family-friendly during the day, and children are welcome at daytime activities like pool days or brunch in the restaurant. However, check each event’s age rules; by default treat concerts/comedy there as adults-only.
What seating arrangements does the venue offer (general admission, VIP, etc.)?
For most evening performances, Vintage Space is general-admission standing-room. There are no assigned seats or VIP sections unless a special package is sold. Limited stools and couches line the walls, but expect to stand by the stage or bar. “VIP tables” (if offered) may provide a reserved area for larger groups. The ballroom and meeting rooms (used for conferences or dinner shows) have conventional seating (banquet rounds, theater rows, U-shapes) as requested by event organizers. In summary: rock clubs and pool parties are mostly innie (open dance floor); formal sit-down events get banquet or theater seating.
Is there a dress code or bag policy at Flamingo events?
Flamingo events are generally casual, but themed nights may encourage retro or festive attire. There is no strict dress code, but avoid overly formal or extremely casual sweatpants if it’s a banquet dinner. As for bags: small purses and camera bags are allowed, but large backpacks, coolers or outside food containers are prohibited and will be checked. Expect a brief security screening at the entrance. In short – dress comfortably and carry only what you need for the show.
Can I bring outside food or drinks into the venue?
No – outside food and alcoholic beverages are not allowed. The resort has full bars on-site (inside Vintage Space and at the pool), and a restaurant for meals. You may bring water or snack-size items (if needed), but the staff generally does not permit outside meals or drinks in public event areas. If you have dietary restrictions, plan to eat beforehand or purchase food on property. In a pinch, you can step out to the lobby or your car to snack if necessary.
What food and drink options are available inside the Flamingo?
The resort offers several on-site dining choices. Just off the lobby is the Lazeaway Club, a full-service restaurant serving continental and tropical-inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner (champagneliving.net ). The Vintage Space lounge has a bar serving cocktails, beer and snacks during shows. In warm weather, the pool area and outdoor patio have swim-up service and light bites (the pool deck bar does Hawaiian poké and small plates). After a show, the lobby bar often stays open late for nightcaps. For late-night cravings, there is no 24-hour kitchen, so plan meals during the day or make use of room service before events start. Additionally, the CVS and Safeway stores next door sell grab-and-go food and drink if needed.
Are Flamingo’s event spaces and facilities wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Flamingo is ADA accessible. All main meeting and event rooms (including the ballroom and Vintage Space) are on the ground floor with ramps or level entrances (www.cvent.com ). There are accessible restrooms near each event area. If you need wheelchair seating or assistance, the staff can accommodate you. (Note: one published guide mentions the hotel historically had no elevator, but access to the performance areas is flat. If staying overnight, ask about room accessibility when booking.)
Does the Flamingo Resort offer Wi-Fi, coat check, or other amenities?
The Flamingo provides free Wi-Fi throughout the property for registered guests (ask at check-in). Event attendees can usually connect with the hotel’s guest network or rely on cellular data (coverage is good). There is no dedicated coat check or locker service in the lounge, so guests generally keep personal belongings with them. An ATM is available in the lobby. The resort also has a business desk for printing and a 24-hour front desk for any guest needs. On-site amenities include a fitness center, tennis courts, spa services, and pools (reservations may be needed for classes).
How early should I arrive before a show begins?
It’s wise to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before showtime, especially on weekends or for popular acts. This gives you time to find parking (the lot can fill up on busy nights), get through security, and pick a good spot or seat. Early arrival also lets you grab a drink or appetizer from the bar or patio before the event. If the show is outdoors by the pool, arrive early to claim a cabana or lounge chair. Keep in mind doors often open earlier for seated events, so check your ticket for any “open” time.
Does the Flamingo Salon offer any stay-and-show packages or special discounts?
Yes. The Flamingo often runs promotions for event attendees. For example, if you book a room around the date of a show, you may get a “make it a night” discount (the venue advertises up to 30% off room rates when purchased with an event ticket (vintagespacesr.com )). There are also seasonal perks for group bookings (as noted on their meetings site, like included drink receptions or free room nights for block room bookings (www.flamingoresort.com )). Check the hotel’s official site or call reservations to inquire about any current packages that include event tickets, lodging, or resort credits.
Is photography or video recording allowed during performances?
Personal photography and video recording (smartphones, pocket cameras) are generally allowed for personal use at Flamingo events. Just please be considerate – turn off flash for night shows and avoid blocking others’ views. The venue does sometimes photograph and film their events (venue notices say by attending you consent to media use (vintagespacesr.com )), so if you do not want to appear, stay to the sides or back. Professional cameras, tripods or audio recording devices typically require prior approval or are prohibited at ticketed shows. If unsure, ask a staff member before setting up any equipment.
What pedestrian or bicycle access is there?
The Flamingo is not located in a walkable shopping district, so pedestrian access is limited. There are sidewalks along 4th Street, but the surrounding area is suburban with few direct connections. Bicyclists could pedal there via 4th Street or side streets, but note that parking is plentiful for cars rather than bike racks. In practice, most guests arrive by car or ride-share. If walking from the nearest bus stop on 4th St, allow a 5–10 minute walk up 4th Street to reach the resort entrance safely.
What are some special recurring events at the Flamingo?
Aside from nightly lounge music and comedy, Flamingo hosts several signature events. As mentioned, the annual “Resort-O-Rama” (mid-century convention) took place here in 2023, highlighting the property’s retro theme (www.pressdemocrat.com ) (www.pressdemocrat.com ). They also have regular seasonal events like “Summer Sessions – Sundays @ the Pool” (weekly DJ/pool parties building community over summer (www.eventbrite.com )) and monthly drag brunches (celebrated in local media (www.vintagespacesr.com )). Holiday celebrations (4th of July BBQ, New Year’s Eve parties, Le Dîner en Blanc pop-ups) often occur on-site. When planning your visit, check if any multi-day festivals or themed dinners are scheduled – the Flamingo tends to tie events to its 1950s-60s aesthetic.
Is Flamingo Conference Resort & Spa historically significant?
Absolutely. The Flamingo is a designated historic property. In 2021 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places for its iconic mid-century design (www.pressdemocrat.com ). It’s one of the only surviving examples of architect Homer Rissman’s futuristic “wagon wheel” hotels (the others being in Vegas and Palm Springs) (patch.com ). The City of Santa Rosa also calls its unique neon Flamingo sign a local landmark (designated in 1997) (www.pressdemocrat.com ). Its storied past – Hollywood stars, big charity balls and vintage architecture – is a point of pride for the region. Visitors often appreciate that they’re stepping into a piece of mid-century history, now beautifully restored.
