Things To Do In Napa Valley With Kids
Napa Valley usually brings to mind wine tasting and Michelin-starred restaurants—definitely more adult tiki than forever-teenie kiddie drink. But, Napa is also a great place for families to come visit! Napa Valley, just an hour northeast of San Francisco in Northern California is a destination for every age group. While the valley is great for a day trip or overnight with children, it’s particularly fun to have little ones in tow when you visit Napa. Napa is the ideal destination for us because our kiddos Willow and Caden all love the outdoors. We go probably four or five times a year and we always find something else to do.
Options for Family-Friendly Fun: From hands-on farm experiences at Connolly Ranch to adrenaline-pumping adventures like kayaking and biking, there are plenty of ways to get the whole family out in nature. A road trip to or through Napa is always one that you can spice up with some gorgeous scenery and a great hotel. Not surprisingly, some people concerned to take a 3 year old to these famout wine regions need not have worried.
While Napa often gets the reputation of being a kids-free destination, there are just as many kid (and adult) friendly spots that both you and your little one will LOVE. Especially if we travel from a different continent, planning well for this part of the travel is critical to end the best possible way.
With over 525 wineries in Napa Valley, there are plenty that aren’t very family-friendly (the wine.) It really is all about knowing where to go and adding in a few toddler friendly stops along the way so that it is fun for everyone. Our ultimate family-friendly activity in Napa guide will make your trip easierIf you would like a resource to help you plan, our ultimate family-friendly activities in Napa guide is just the thing. To make Napa Valley special for the whole family, we have a list of delightful things which you can try with your family.
Popular Outdoor Activities and Natural Attractions
Old Faithful
Old Faithful: natural geyser, Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, Napa Valley It blasts scalding water into the sky at 60 feet high every half-hour. Guests can get a front row seat from viewing decks to view the spectacle. Families are free to wander the green, wild-flower dotted park while waiting for the next spurt. There are ranger-led tours for more information about the geological significance of Old Faithful. The Coppolas recommend it as an ideal spot for families discovering Napa Valley. Yep. The designation of Old Faithful applies to three geysers worldwide apparently! Who knew, right? Fortunately we arrived at Old Faithful in Calistoga, California just as she had decided to wind down from an energetic eruption.
Every 30-40 minutes for up to six hours, when she goes off for two-six minutes. And she’s incredible. You probably hear a lot more about the Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming but to me this is better. The “Old Faithful” you know is in Wyoming, not in California where they have their own natural geyser that also goes by the same name. A stop at the Old Faithful Geyser of California is thrilling to kids big and small, and while on the park grounds your family can meander through gardens, meet farm animals, picnic in the shade, visit a geology museum or play a game or two of bocce ball.
View the geyser erupt, meet the rescue animals, and shop at our gift store for some unique finds.
Connolly Ranch
When in Napa during the Connolly Ranch open house, its an awesome place for everyone on the family. This is a kids play centre to access education on the environment and animals in a natural way through play. They have farm animals, a garden and heaps of ‘wild spaces’ for the kids to run in. It will be especially important if your children are older, perhaps even part-time day camps. You might be able to drop the children off for a couple of hours to get around hiking and the farm on your own and recharge with your partner. Everybody wins
When we visited establishing an educational center in Napa Valley called Connolly Ranch. Kids can pet farm animals, caterpillar hunt, and discover how to grow fresh organic food and about sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the ranch has bountiful gardens delivering locally grown vegetables and provides interactive programs and workshops.
Families can picnic and take guided tours in which we learn about sustainable agricultural practices. Connolly Ranch — A working farm in Napa, Connolly Ranch is an educational center that offers structured programs and hands-on experiences with nature, wildlife and more for kids. During the summer, they host Saturday Farm Camp while mom and dad get to roam Napa, guilt free, for a couple of hours around their time unplugging at more than 12 acres on the ranch.
Napa Valley Bike Tours
Napa Valley Bike Tours: If you aren’t into boating but enjoy biking, then consider both guided (May through October) and self-guided family rides with this tour company. Great way to get out some energy and enjoy the outdoors, for kids of all ages in Napa. NO BIKE — they even have bike rentals for big kids through grown-ups as well. And they even make a little kid (age 4 to 8) tag along you can attach to your bike as well as trailers for hauling around one or two tiny humans. If you need even more assistance, hire an electric bike and make this ride a walk in the park.
For families of any age and riding ability, Napa Valley Bike Tours provides guided bicycle tours. Guided, with good tour leaders on great quality bikes – you get route maps for safety and enjoyment. Families can pick routes from a selection that ranges from leisure rides through vineyards to the more challenging. Their tours stop at some of the valley’s most elite wineries and some more hidden gems.
This allows families to truly take in the natural beauty that characterizes the region. Get some exercise and relax at the same time while enjoying a bike tour of Napa valley with your family. Bike rental is available for touring Napa Valley on two wheels or enjoy an outdoor activity and take a stroll along the trail.
Napa Valley Vine Trail
Napa Valley — 47 miles of a world-class Vine Trail that meanders past vineyards, quaint towns and landmarks when not highlighting the exquisite country! The entire area is family-friendly for leisure strolls or exciting bike rides to experience the sights and sounds of this region known for its vineyards. Parents: we stroll or ride bikes, while kids stare at long rows of grapevines. all the way up to Napa Valley, PEBBLE..the trail has something for everyone, making it easy for families to enjoy wine and get outdoors together. Experience Napa Valley on two wheels, Rent Bikes — Ride the Trail & Take a stroll for all ages visiting the splendid Napa Valley Vine Trail.
Over 300 trees have been planted to (hopefully) help shadow trail users in the future. Special points of interpretive interest are identified by written signs. Shelters for rest stops with bike racks and bike work stations, maps and information Meanwhile, mileage markers tell you how far along the way of life you are. Currently, the continuous stretch runs from Kennedy Park in southern Napa to the top of Yountville at valley’s midsection.
These are some of things that you can see and do along the way. Begin the trail at Kennedy Park, a local park on the Napa River that has softball fields and sand volleyball courts along with picnic areas and a formal garden if you plan to ride the entire trail. Then, pedal 2.5 miles north along the trail to Oxbow Public Market, a food hall and Napa River-view deck filled with eateries, locally sourced foodstuffs & produce. It is ideal for stocking up on snacks to eat while driving.
Napa Valley Paddle
There is a laid back family friendly way to experience the beautiful rivers and tributaries that wind their way through Napa Valley with Napa Valley Paddle. Kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing also are choices for families. This peaceful visit on the beautiful Napa River flows through picturesque vineyard-filled scenery Kids can explore a variety of birds and learn balance and coordination. Experienced guides are on hand to provide safety and educational elements. In addition to the teamwork and communication it involves, families also learn about how they must work together to get through the calm water.
During a canoe trip, the paddler will offer picnicking at scenic areas where families can spend time together and enjoy their valuable moments surrounded by nature. Go kayaking or paddleboarding on the Napa River. Take off from Cuttings Wharf at the Los Carneros champagne district by reservation, simply 10min south of town.
This is what paddling in wine country looks like to guests. Special alert: when it’s high tide, a hike on the meandering trail through Fagan Marsh is both stunning and exciting as you experience this important wetland – not to mention one of the largest stops in the Pacific Flyway — with expansive views of Mt Tam, Mt Diablo and in the distance along upper ridge section — Mt. Veeder and Atlas Peak.
Bothe-Napa Valley State ParkThe park is a great place for countryside hikes, wildlife spotting and has a waterfall pool you can swim in, as well as having picnic areas and campsites. Under-the-Radar Napa Valley Wine Country Day TripWeekend Retreat: Tiny Town of Yountville Go on a guided trip through the historical Bale Grist Mill (which still works) and then lace up your hiking boots to hit miles of shaded trails. Overnight guests at Bothe State Park can also stay in yurts and swim in a pool.
Visit Bothe State Park Experience more of high-class than rustic boozing in Napa Valley? In the heart of wine country, Bothe Napa Valley State Park is a gateway to immerse yourself in this great area. Pack a picnic for after spending the day swimming and hiking. On top of that, few parks in the country can make good on having some coastal redwood trees — this does! When you get done exploring Bothe Napa Valley State Park for the day, you know you’ll be ready to enjoy a tasty meal.
Check out our free vacation guide for a complete list of restaurants and other key area attractions and activities available in. Our aim is to remove the headache of researching so you can spend more time dreaming of your next holiday!!
Wetlands Edge Park
Located in the Napa Valley town of American Canyon, Wetlands Edge Park accommodates families wanting to escape into a serene setting where both exploration and learning can share equal space. Visitors are able to adventure through a variety of wildlife habitats, view native plants and animals, and learn with our nature programs led by naturalists. It will also include interactive exhibits and hands-on activities to help spark young minds in caring for the environment.
Observation areas offer views of marshes, ponds and waterfowl habitat. Where: Where: Wetlands Edge Park is a great place for families to go and reconnect with the nature or learn more about wetland conservation. Hiking through the American Canyon wetland areas Remember to pack the binoculars: for wildlife watching and birding.
The Wetlands Edge Park is a partnership between the City of American Canyon and Napa County Regional Park & Open Space District. Winding along the Napa-Sonoma Marsh shoreline, these trails offer both lung-constricting and easy-pedaling ways to probe the marshlands and associated areas of the Napa River.
Amongst the everglades, you can meet a lot of birds and watch the sunrise or sunset here; it is also a popular recreational area for families living in Chole. The trail can be entered in two places the first parking lot and entrance at of levee-top trails, is off Green Island Road on to a kayak and canoe launch ramp; access also points near the end entry Wetlands Edge Road Eucalyptus paved parking restroom
Kayaking
Kayaking in Napa ValleyFamilies who prefer to be outside the kitchen or entirely out of doors will be prepared to hop into a kayak with la Kayaking within Napa area. Napa Valley Paddle: leads jaunts down the tame Napa River near vineyards and marshes. Knowledgeable guides will offer deeper insight into the history and ecology of the region.
From leisurely paddles for happy families to multi-day expeditions. Though most people have never heard of it, kayaking in Napa Valley is the perfect way to connect and enjoy each other in a natural setting.
For those with kids old enough, take the boats down the river or area to see more sites – boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and jet skiing all available. The Napa River is beautiful plus there are so many great water activities you need to check out!
Safari Tours
Napa Valley safari tours will provide families with a fun and informative outing. Experienced guides accompany you to some of the country’s most stunning scenery, walking you through breath-taking landscapes as well as over vineyards and educational information on the bats in local ecosystems. The tour takes families to see animals in their natural habitats, as well as activities such as critique gear for little hands.
Through guided tours, families can take in the wonders of nature and wildlife, creating memories for a lifetime as they inspire a love of conservation and exploration in children of all ages.
Safari West takes visitors through an African reminiscent world. Bond with animals hailing from all corners of Africa, closer than you ever thought possible. Our safaris are second to none, and there is no more enchanting way to explore the soul of Africa in the heart of wine country!
Additional Family-Friendly Accommodations
Grand Reserve at The Meritage Resort
The Grand Reserve is a family-friendly luxury option within The Meritage Resort, Napa Valley. The resort has large family-friendly suites with contemporary facilities and many more options for kids of all ages.
The resort features an onsite spa, outdoor swimming pools, play areas and myriad restaurants to appeal to different tastes. Families can order room service, or dine outside on the resort’s picturesque patio.
The perfect combination of luxury accommodations and family-friendly amenities make The resort an excellent place for any family who wants to experience all that Napa Valley has to offer — in style.
The Meritage | Family pool complete with poolside private cabanas, Fivetown Grocery in property and the large lawn for a fun day with giant Jenga, all ages love it here!
When you are traveling with kids its always nice to be able to have as much in one spot as possible. It is a great thing to have some rest place, play and eat during your ride. The Grand Reserve at The Meritage — think of it as The Meritage’s classier sister property right across the street This is great family style accommodation and has a large swimming pool aswell as an onsite bowling alley. There’s an adults-only pool too if you want to escape during nap time. Plus, a number of on-site restaurants.
One bedroom suites are roomy and include full kitchens, something I still always suggest when traveling with little ones. It’s also the most affordable Napa Valley one-bedroom bungalow you’re going to get at this level. The only downside is not tons of place around to eat. You can have the option if you are on a weeklong trip to prepare most of your own meals, but I doubt this will be too big an issue as if it is you can just shell out for one of their suites (obviously we want to be in the game comps at times so that was poor phrasing).
Silverado Resort
Location: Silverado Resort is a boutique resort in the heart of Napa valley. It boasts stylishly appointed rooms and suites, spa, swimming pools, a golf course as well as tennis courts for both amateurs and seasoned athletes, fitness classes (naturally), hiking trails right outside your front door and multiple dining options to suit all tastes. You can find a wine place that makes perfect weekends with family in the excellent California wine country.
Kids can participate in daily golf and tennis camps, enjoy swimming, take part in on-property bike rentals or go hiking all day without leaving the resort.
Stretching a mere 30 miles long and only few miles wide, while Napa Valley may be small in size, it overflows with delicious delights from wine tasting to five-star farm-to-table dining. There is something for everyone in Napa and choosing a place to stay (after all it is the one place you retreat to at night time—to sleep) needs to tick off all your must-have boxes.
Napa offers all who come through its gates a wide range of options for lodgings, much like the wineries that surround it. Uncover a bohemian urban hotel next to the area’s best restaurants, or a secluded resort near some of the region’s most exquisite vineyards and wineries; you will find what you are looking for.
Just 30 miles long and a few miles across at its widest point, the Y-shaped valley is tiny but crammed with delicious diversions from wine tastings to five-star farm-to-table dining! Napa has a little something for everyone and there are many options to choose from when you select a spot to lay your head at night and recharge, that much should meet all your must-haves.
While Napa is better known for its vineyard than it is as a place to roost, there are plenty of impressive places to stay in wine country that run the gamut from tried-and-true wineries. Whether you want a lively, city hotel close to funky eateries or a peaceful retreat nearby some of the best vineyards and wineries in the area, there really is something for every type of traveller.
Napa Valley Railway Inn
For curious families exploring Napa Valley, the Napa Valley Railway Inn is out-of-the-ordinary lodging option. Accommodations are found in stylish boutique hotel-style guestrooms equipped with modern amenities while housed in handsomely restored historic railway cars.
It is located just two hours outside of many U.S. cities and offers nearby vineyards, world-class restaurants, outdoor adventures (hot air balloon rides, bike tours), shopping in unique boutiques or wind through the outlet mall. The on-site restaurant at the Inn offers a broad menu of California cuisine with child appropriate offerings.
For families, the lush gardens are perfect places to unwind and have some al fresco fun picnicking with a view. Thanks to an excellent location, great dining options, and a host of thoughtful amenities, Napa Valley Railway Inn is one of the best family vacation resorts out there.
I Dunno Who kids wouldnt love staying in an old train car??
Situated at the crossroads of the Wine Country in downtown Yountville, our Railway Inn offers a wonderful Napa Valley experience. Stay in the Railway Inn’s transformed 100-year old train cars, then dine and sleep a few-minute walk to Thomas Keller’s ‘The French Laundry’, ‘Bouchon’ and ‘Ad-Hoc’, Michael Chiarello’s ‘Bottega’ and now fully running Platform 8.
Pizzeria Tra Vigne
Napa Valley: Pizzeria Tra Vigne, Family Trip They make delicious wood-fired pizzas with fresh, local ingredients. It has traditional favorites, unique choices and sections for appetizers, salads and dessert.
For guests waiting to be seated, parents can relax with a local glass of wine or craft beer while kids drink house-made lemonades or sodas. This is a family-friendly gluten-free restaurant, the staff are friendly and accomodating with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for an easy family dinner.
Play a lively game of bocce ball, take a snap in front of the monster tomato, and bite into kid-friendly pizzas and locally-made gelatos.
Gott’s Roadside
A popular “roadside” food stand-type restaurant in the Napa Valley area serving gourmet American classics, Gott’s is a definite must-do place to stop when you’re craving drive-in fare crafted with local ingredients. Enjoy the family-friendly vibe with offerings for kids, including little corn dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Every plate illustrates the dedication to fine dining with a kid friendly twist and the freshest, seasonal ingredients. For those families who are looking to do dining in Napa Valley (trust me you will WANT to), then this is definitely the place to put on the list of stops.
Gott’s Roadside: If there is one spot in Napa Valley I can hit up my first choice every time, it would be Gott’s! A must when we are in Napa! Burgers, Tacos, Salads & Sandwiches There is also a wide range of wine, beer and beverages menu items at Gott’s that will satisfy anyone. Caden enjoys ordering off the kids’ menu and the organic shakes! As my standard order: kids cheeseburger, sweet potato fries and strawberry lemonade. The classic burger, fries and shake for both kids (and the kid in you).
Boon Fly Cafe
As an attractive destination for families traveling to Napa Valley, Carneros Resort and Spa, includes a quaint restaurant known as Boon Fly Cafe that serves delicious food. Its menu is filled with appetising dishes, all prepared from local produce ensuring there’s bound to be something for every palate.
Served by a friendly staff, the cafe has the perfect solution for those seated with children at table The family friendly restaurant has high chairs and colouring activities to keep the little ones amused while mums and dads enjoy their meal.
Perfect for a quiet breakfast, or a cozy dinner destination, Boon Fly Cafe provides an innovative menu with something to suit everyone.
Ideal for brunch and do NOT forfeit the bucket of mini donuts that will make everyone at the table smile.
During our time in Napa Valley we made it to The Boon Fly Cafe for breakfast. This place was packed for a Friday. It was pretty late when we got in there so we were the last people seated with the breakfast menu. Good thing we made it in time for they had come here just to have breakfast.
V Sattui Winery
Experience V Sattui Winery, the premier family-friendly winery in Napa Valley. Founded in 1885, the vineyard is a reputed winery with an array of classic wines grown among beautiful vineyards.
The tasting room is family friendly with knowledgeable staff who are quick to help take guests through their excellent wines. Families can enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic drinks for kids, and adults have the option to participate in multiple tastings of their own.
Additionally, the winery offers tours of their vineyards and facilities which make for an educational experience regarding the processes a child can learn first hand how wine is made. V Sattui Winery also offers picnic grounds that allow families to kick back and enjoy gourmet eats from the winery’s deli market.
One of the most popular spots to eat a lunch picnic at V Sattui. Arrive early and enjoy a glass of wine and dinner while watching the mountains in the background. All the buildings cast a long line of shade and little kids can run around doing crafts or games with tables under the shade, others are welcome to play in the grass off the edge of where people would be having picnics. From here, you can wander through more than 2.5 acres of formal desgn gardens and museum caves.
Hall Wines
Hall Wines is a well-known Napa Valley winery that specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon and features tasting rooms filled various forms of art. In addition to the wine tasting enjoyed by visiting families, there also was “Kathryn Hall Release Party,” a lively event with an array of live music and delectable food.
At Hall Wines, their art program includes an overall concept of modern and contemporary art with sculptures, paintings and installations placed throughout the grounds making it another setting for children to enjoy wine and art together. The winery offers kid-friendly tours as well, that make you and your little ones peek into the wine making process with fun for the kids too!
Needless to say, Hall Wines in St. Helena is one of our favorite wineries to visit while we are in Napa. In addition to their fabulous wine, the locale is filled with contemporary art and architecture. Suggested preperation: maybe bring a spare outfit in case your child wants to re-enact the water park!
This one is probably great for kids as well, cause there is this massive field for the kids to play and the view is just beautiful! It is perfect for a picnic with some wine (or sparkling grape juice)
Raymond Vineyards
St. Helena: A Fun Family Spot for Big Kids of All Ages at Raymond Vineyards The winery itself has fun displays, vibrant decor, and animals to play with like alpacas, goats, chickens & sheep.
Adults could enjoy wine-tasting experiences, kids could learn about sustainable farming practices and play with the animals. Raymond Vineyards also have an annual event schedule, bringing together families exploring Napa Valley for exciting experiences throughout the year.
It is home to more than twelve unique wine experiences, a few are even kid-friendly! By doing the Tasting in the Grove experience, you can sit outside and sip multicourse wine, while letting your children play amongst the sycamore trees and take in garden space. The tasting takes place here but everyone is welcome to enjoy the sensory shopping fun of the “Row of Senses” and see everything in person, as well as nature’s theater to learn about biodynamic agriculture!
