A Perfect Blend: The Ultimate Family Day in Napa

Who says wine tasting and a trip to Napa is just for adults? With a little planning and creativity (and caffeine!), Napa Valley can be an engaging and fun family adventure. Here’s how to plan the perfect day trip with kids in tow:

Kick Off the Day Right: Coffee & Hot Chocolate at Napa Valley Roasting Co.

There’s no better way to start your day than by grabbing a cup of coffee while the kids enjoy some hot chocolate. Head to Napa Valley Roasting Company, located along the Napa River. Grab your warm drinks and take a walk along the river and let your kiddos burn some energy while you let that caffeine boost kick in.

Next Up: Breakfast at Model Bakery – It’s THAT Good!

Trust me when I say, you don’t want to miss a breakfast treat at Model Bakery. Their breakfast sandwiches are so delicious, you’ll probably end up ordering a second round. They are that good. Our kids love them so much they refuse to share. Plus, it’s a perfect way to fuel up before a day of wine tasting (and kid-chasing!). Parenting tip: Before you head out, grab a cookie for later.

Time for Wine: Hill Family Winery

Now it’s time to treat yourself! Hill Family Winery is great for a relaxed, family-friendly wine tasting experience. There’s a shaded outdoor area where the whole family can hang and the kids can play and explore while you sample some great wines.  

Lunchtime: Oakville Grocery for a Picnic or Quick Bite

Following a fun wine tasting experience, we are always ready for a yummy lunch or hearty snack.  We love Oakville Grocery and know that we will always find something that everyone will enjoy.  Be prepared to wait a bit, but trust me, it’s worth it.  You can enjoy lunch on-site and sit alongside many others at the picnic tables or take your food to go (and maybe head to a park for a picnic to let the kids burn some energy).

Don’t Forget the Photo Op! The Famous Napa Valley Welcome Sign

No Napa trip is complete without a photo at the “Welcome to Napa” sign on Highway 29. Gather the whole family (now might be a great time to break out those Model Bakery cookies) and capture a memory you'll cherish forever.

End the Day with Dinner at Forge in South Napa

After a day of exploring, tasting, and making memories, Forge in South Napa is the perfect spot to wind down with a family-friendly dinner. The kids will have a blast playing bean bag toss on the grassy area, and during the warmer months, you can enjoy live music on the weekends.  For the non-designated driver, they have a nice selection of wines and if Dad is wine’d out, they’ve got a great selection of beer too.