How to Explore Napa Valley With Kids

How to Explore Napa Valley With Kids

There are plenty of reasons for couples to visit the Napa Valley: from wine to romance, it’s the destination of choice for sweethearts. But what if you’ve got a few offspring in tow? The Valley is family-friendly too, with activities that appeal to kids of all ages. Discover a few ways for families to explore Napa, California, together.

Safari West

Who’s up for a real safari experience in Sonoma County? Safari West is a 400-acre private wildlife preserve where your family can get up close and personal with a variety of species native to Africa, including giraffes, rhinoceros, and zebras.

Journey out in search of herds of Cape buffalo and antelope, or spot a cheetah race by. From ring-tailed lemurs to cackling hyenas, there are nearly 900 animals roaming the preserve. Children must be at least 4 years old, and at least 45 inches tall to come along on the safari.

Castello di Amorosa

The Castello di Amorosa is a 13th-century, Tuscan–style winery sitting on 171 acres of lush vineyards. Sip a glass of your favorite Italian-inspired vintage while the kids enjoy a cup of grape juice, then head out on a self-guided tour of the 121,000-square-foot castle.

Children may explore the two-level winery when accompanied by an adult over the age of 21. Grab your map of the Castello and visit the ground level, then head over to the main tasting bar, and below ground to the Knight’s Hall. Just 3 miles north of the winery, you’ll find the area’s world-famous hot springs, where you’ll discover even more family-friendly adventures.

Old Faithful Geyser

The Old Faithful Geyser of California is not to be confused with Yellowstone’s famous hot springs. This small, scenic oasis in Calistoga is one of three geysers in the world with regular “faithful” eruptions.

Say hello to the fainting goat residents at the animal farm, and have a family picnic in the serenity of the geyser park’s gardens. Learn all about the area’s past at the geology museum, and before you head out, stop at the gift shop for locally made goods. Get the most out of your family’s experience at the park with a stay in one of Napa Valley’s hotels, luxurious resorts or a rustic country bed-and-breakfast.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Climb aboard a hot air balloon for a unique experience the kids will remember for a lifetime. What better way to appreciate Napa’s rolling hills and beautiful coastline than from the air?

Balloons Above the Valley invites families on a soaring flight into the sunrise high above lush vineyards. Get a complimentary cup of coffee and a pastry from The Model Bakery before the hourlong flight.

Meet at the Oxbow Public Market, and gather the kids to watch the professional pilots inflate your balloon. A photographer will snap a family photo before you embark on a wonderful aerial adventure.

For a long weekend packed with adventures and activities, try one of these fabulous experiences for the whole family in Napa.