The Best Kid-Friendly Wineries in Napa Valley

  • Wineries
  • by DAISY BARRINGER
  • on OCTOBER 30, 2023
  • 142251
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Wineries

The Best Kid-Friendly Wineries in Napa Valley

By Daisy Barringer October 30, 2023

Wine tasting is decidedly a very adult thing to do in that, well, legally you have to be an adult to do it. However, despite the age requirement, there are a few Napa Valley wineries that understand some families enjoy traveling together in Wine Country and therefore happily accommodate children.

Read on for some of the best family-friendly wineries in Napa where you and your kids will have a great time, and you can spend all of that babysitter money you’ll save on a case of wine to take home and enjoy later.

Inglenook
Photo Courtesy of Inglenook

Inglenook is a majestically beautiful winery with a long standing winemaking heritage in Napa, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a slice of Wine Country history. Children 12 and over are allowed to join the Inglenook Library Tour and Tasting, which includes a tour of the chateau and vineyards, and finishes with a seated wine and cheese tasting in a private room, but for a truly family-friendly experience, skip that in favor of a more casual experience at The Bistro. There, you can dine outside in the courtyard and enjoy wines by the glass or bottle, as well as soft drinks, coffee, bistro bites, cheese, and charcuterie. While the adults sip and chat, the kids can borrow wooden sailboats to sail in the courtyard fountain, a la the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris, which the Inglenook gardens were inspired by.

1991 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573, (707) 968-1161

Sterling Vineyards
Offering some of the best views of Napa Valley. Photo Courtesy of Sterling Vineyards

The only way to get to this Greek-style winery perched on a hilltop 300 feet above Calistoga is via an aerial tram ride, which is almost as thrilling (and definitely more unexpected) as any ride at an amusement park. You’ll have to be 21 or older to book a tasting experience (once the winery reopens its doors in late October 2023–whoo hoo!), but children are allowed to accompany adults on what they refer to as the “Sterling Stroll.” This leisurely experience is self-guided, which means that you can go at your own pace so that no one gets fidgety, and while the adults are tasting, the kids can look forward to the thrill of getting to ride the gondola back down again. The views of Calistoga from the terrace on this mountaintop estate also make the perfect backdrop for a frame-worthy family photo.

111 W Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515, (800) 726-6136

Napa Cellars
Enjoy a picnic with the family. Photo Courtesy of Napa Cellars

With over 40 years of winemaking history along the iconic Highway 29, this spot seamlessly merges tradition with a laid-back vibe, and it just so happens to be kid-friendly. The kids will love the expansive gardens, and while adults relish in curated wine tastings, everyone can enjoy a game of cornhole or a picnic—either brought from home or picked from their local spread of cheeses and treats. Plus, for families with furry members, this is such a dog-friendly winery that they roll out the red carpet with a special “Pampered Pooch” package. It all makes for a delightful blend of wine and family fun!

7481 St. Helena Highway South, Oakville, CA 94562, (707) 944-2565

Beringer Vineyards
Let the kids explore and roam the stunning grounds at Beringer. Photo Courtesy of Beringer Vineyards

Adults love visiting Beringer because it’s the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley; kids love it because they can explore a place that’s a whopping 146 years old and roam its stunning grounds. Now, while most of Beringer’s wine-centered adventures are reserved for the 21-and-up club, they’ve smartly created the “Sip & Stroll Around Beringer” experience that invites both the little ones (and, oh, the fur babies too). During this outdoor, self-guided walkabout, you and your family are welcomed to wander about the historic Napa property at your leisure, while the adults get to enjoy a glass of wine along the way. Beringer also welcomes kids to their seasonal live music series, which is offered on Saturdays July through October.

2000 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 257-5771

HALL-Bunny-Foo-Foo-Sky-1320x880
Bunny Foo Foo. Appreciate the beautiful art and sculptures at HALL.

Roll up to HALL’s St. Helena visitor hotspot, and both the kiddos and grown-ups are in for a whimsical treat, courtesy of the massive Bunny Foo-Foo sculpture greeting guests. Though the winery has made a name for itself for its acclaimed wine, particularly Cabernet, with over 35 pieces of contemporary art and a large lawn for relaxing, this long standing winery has something for everyone. You’ll have to be 21 to partake in most tastings and tours, but the Art of Cabernet Tasting is an option for those traveling with kiddos, and features four award-winning Cabernet Sauvignons (for the adults) alongside views of the vineyards and Mayacamas Mountains.

401 St. Helena Highway S, St. Helena, CA 94574

Charles Krug Winery
A treat for everyone! Cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as weekend wood-fired pizzas. Photo Courtesy of Charles Krug Winery

Step foot into Napa Valley’s Charles Krug winery, and you’re not just stepping into any winery—you’re wandering into the region’s oldest, having opened its doors back in 1861. And if you’re looking for a family-friendly winery, Charles Krug is a great spot. Book the Estate Tasting—a delightful journey that showcases four of their finest current release Napa Valley wines. Though outside food isn’t an option, their cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as weekend wood-fired pizzas, promise a treat for everyone in tow.

2800 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 976-2229

PEJU
Photo Courtesy of PEJU / Katie Gallogly

Marking a stellar 40-year journey as a family-owned Napa Valley winery, PEJU remains a top pick for wine aficionados. Families, take note: the 60-minute Classic Seated Tasting awaits you at this Rutherford winery daily, with no reservations needed. While adults savor five of PEJU’s signature Napa Valley wines, adding a cheese plate or the chef’s assortment of nibbles ensures the youngsters have delightful munchies to keep them engaged.

8466 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573, (707) 963-3600

Frog's Leap Winery
Kids will have so much fun roaming the winery grounds and a chance to meet the chickens! Photo Courtesy of Frog's Leap Winery

Kids (and dogs on leashes) will love exploring this working farm where they’ll get to meet chickens, try to spot frogs in the fish pond, and roam gorgeous gardens that serve as both scenery and habitat. The Garden Bar Tasting is the only option for people with children, which is also one of the more casual tastings on offer. You’ll taste four wines as you learn about the winemaking philosophy, while the non-wine tasters in your group can take in the views of the gardens and orchards.

8815 Conn Creek Road, Rutherford, CA 94573, (707) 963-4704

Conclusion

So, now you know that Napa Valley isn’t just for wine connoisseurs; it can be a destination for families too. With a number of wineries embracing kid-friendly activities and amenities, it can make for a memorable family getaway. The next time you think of heading to Wine Country, remember it’s a toast to family bonding too!