INSPIRATION TO BOOK A DREAM GETAWAY

Summer is here and it's a great time to follow the sun and get out of town! We think Napa Valley is a fantastic place to visit, especially if you plan on bringing your family with you. With lots of open space and sprawling wineries, you may want to consider sipping on world-class wine while the kiddos run around and have fun as well. Most of the larger wineries are happy to welcome you and your family. We've picked a few great family friendly wineries and tasting rooms that will offer plenty of great wine for the adults and something to do for everyone else too.

**Just a note that while the tasting rooms featured below were confirmed as family friendly at the time this article was originally published, the winery's policies may have since changed, have certain stipulations regarding minors, or require making advanced arrangements for persons under 21.  It is highly encouraged to contact all tasting rooms you plan on visiting with anyone under 21 years of age to confirm their policy regarding minors.

V. Sattui, located right on Hwy 29 in St Helena, is easy to find. Upon arrival you will notice right away that there is ample space for the children to stretch their legs. Before you get settled, be sure to order some food from the cantina and a glass (or bottle) of wine. Next, find a comfy spot either on the grass or under the trees at the picnic tables. While V. Sattui regulates the number of people on property at the same time, they don't assign tables during the week, unless you are doing a formal wine tasting. Tables are secured on a first come first serve basis. It gets crowded at V. Sattui, so time your visit accordingly.  On the weekends (reservations required), they have a fabulous pizza oven. The Weekend BBQ has some of the best meats and pizzas around! With picnic grounds totaling two and a half acres, there is lots of room to spread out and plenty to explore.

Raymond Vineyards (also in St. Helena) has always been a favorite winery for families. You can be sure to meet interesting people from out of town or locals anytime you are there. The winery is perfectly suited for children of all ages. The botanical sensory garden provides excellent guidance for a self-guided tour. The children will love walking through the paths and learning all about aspects of winemaking. If your little one is in a stroller, the garden is perfect. The gentle breeze and sunshine will likely lull your infant to sleep instantly. There is an adorable doggie daycare and a few farm animals to see as well. If your children are a little bit older, they can have fun taking selfies in the interactive selfie station set up at the entrance of the winery. With many wines to choose from at Raymond, the adults are sure to find something they love too. Raymond offers great incentives and will cater to your every need with elegance and style.

Located in north Napa, Monticello Vineyards was established 50 years ago, in 1970. Since then, the Corley Family (proprietors) have built a fine estate and a treasure of award-winning wines. Somehow, they have managed to keep family at the core of everything they do. The grounds are historical and expansive with plenty of garden decor and seating. You and your children will feel right at home, while having a blast exploring the space. Enjoy a bottle of wine or an Estate Tasting in the garden daily. Monticello Vineyards is the perfect winery to learn about a family that has thrived in Napa Valley and try some of the best estate wines around. Ask about the wine club membership as they have lovely family events that are well worth participating in. At Monticello you will appreciate the authentic hospitality and leave feeling enriched and satisfied.

Driving through the stately gates of Beringer Vineyards, it is obvious that you have arrived at an estate of weight and history. The driveway is lined with established and well-manicured greenery and the buildings on site are clearly built with craftsmanship and meticulous care. Established in 1876, Beringer has demonstrated its passion for all that is wine and its dedication to the community. The estate is more like a park than a winery and your children will be content here for hours on end. With many areas to plant yourselves and explore, there will be no shortage of entertainment for family members of all ages. The Plaza Experience or the Old Winery Outdoor Experience are perfect for those of you with your children. For $15 (complimentary for club members), you can select a glass of wine from the menu and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. If you desire a more formal tasting, you can explore Tasting Under the Oaks ($30) or a Veranda Experience ($45). No matter which option you select, you will love the digs at Beringer, as well as the Estate history and wine.

If all else fails, you can be sure the kiddos will love Castello di Amorosa (Calistoga). Due to the delicate cobblestone surface, please note no strollers allowed.  Completed in 1994, this 13th century replica castle was diligently built via the vision of its proprietor, Dario Sattui. Every stone was brought over from Italy, the craftsmanship is outstanding, and the castle is truly a site to be seen. A child of any age will be absolutely blown away at the Castello di Amorosa. Where else can you see a real castle in wine country? The grounds also include a moat and exotic animals. Children and adults love to photograph the castle and animals. Incidentally, the Castello di Amorosa was voted the Best Winery in Napa Valley for several years in a row. The wines are mostly done in Italian style and well loved by the crowds and locals.

There is much to choose from. We love the La Castellana super Tuscan blend. There are several options for entry and tasting, so be sure to decide what you want to do before making your reservation. We love the cheese and wine experience! Joining the wine club there us a great choice when you have young children. The torture chamber and dungeon are usually a big hit. Dario has collected an incredible array of authentic midevil torture instruments. Access to the fun stuff is reserved for club members. The Castello di Amorosa is enchanting in every way!

Traveling to the Napa Valley is always a wonderful experience. Being there with your family can make an already wonderful weekend (or day trip), even better. We hope you (and your children) will enjoy the selections we have made above. For great places to dine and stay in Napa Valley keep reading our blog! Happy Travels! Happy Summer!

Updated 5/24/22