Family Friendly - WineCountry.com

Top Family-Friendly Wineries in Sonoma County

Dena Roche — Tue, 31 May 2022 08:00:18 +0000

Today many families are vacationing in Sonoma County, and Mom and Dad don’t want to give up the chance to spend the day tasting the wines that made the area famous just because the kiddos are on the trip too. Thankfully, even though wine might be for adults only, many Sonoma County wineries have estates and tasting rooms that are family-friendly.

Here are our favorite kid-friendly wineries in Sonoma to swirl, sip, and enjoy great wine that not only allow kids, but have a few surprises on property to keep them entertained, too.

Benziger Family Winery

Courtesy of Benziger | Carley Burns

This family winery uses Biodynamic farming processes to produce award-winning, organic wines. Located in Glen Ellen on Sonoma Mountain, Benziger’s Tractor Tram tour is one of the most kid-friendly vineyard tours in Sonoma County. The 75-minute adventure takes guests on a tractor tour of the vineyard to learn about the sustainable farming processes. Afterwards parents can enjoy a sampling of four limited production wines.

1883 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442, (707) 935-3000

St. Francis Winery

Courtesy of St. Francis | Erica Gomez

For over 50 years St. Francis Winery & Vineyards has been wowing the wine world. From planting the first merlot grapes in Sonoma Valley, to the certified sustainable wines it makes today, the Santa Rosa estate is a favorite of visitors. Kids will be enchanted with the bell tower on property where a 1,000-pound Italian cast bronze bell rings out on the hour. Children are welcome to accompany parents as they enjoy the classic wine tasting.

100 Pythian Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, (888) 675-9463

Seghesio Family Vineyards

Courtesy of Seghesio Family Vineyards

Since planting its first vines in 1895, Seghesio Family Vineyards has been known for some of the top zinfandel in Sonoma County, along with interesting Italian varietals. A family-friendly way to visit the winery is with the Bocce & Bottles experience. Mom and Dad can enjoy a bottle while the family plays a high-stakes game of bocce ball.

700 Grove Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 433-3579

Francis Ford Coppola

Courtesy of Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville has created a Hollywood dream wine experience for families. Owned by the iconic movie director, Francis Ford Coppola, the extensive estate offers kid-friendly delights at every turn. Older children will enjoy simply walking through the tasting room looking at all of the movie memorabilia, including an original Tucker automobile, Don Corleone’s desk from the Godfather, and Oscar statues. The family-friendly winery offers a truly unique experience with its pool and cabine reservations. With two swimming pools on the estate, families can book a private cabine that includes pool passes, lounge chairs, and a private shower. The kids can swim and the parents can enjoy a summertime sip of the Sofia rosé.

300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA 95441, (707) 857-1471

Imagery Estate Winery

Courtesy of Imagery | Carley Burns

A side project of winemaker Joe Benziger, Imagery Estate Winery in Glen Ellen focuses on art and fun. Each bottle is adorned with art commissioned for the winery. While most experiences are reserved for adults only, the kids can tag along for a wine tasting at the bar or during a bottle-service picnic table reservation, available for groups up to eight. After a wine tasting, enjoy the estate’s many kid-friendly outlets, including bocce ball, giant jenga, and cornhole.

14335 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen, CA 95442, (877) 550-4278

Hook & Ladder

Courtesy of Hook & Ladder

Started by San Francisco firefighter Cecil De Loach and his wife Christine, Hook & Ladder pays homage to firefighters worldwide. The Santa Rosa family-friendly winery is known for estate bottlings of pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, and Bordeaux blends. Inside the winery the kids will enjoy looking at all the different fire station T-shirts decorating the walls, and outside at the classic red trucks. Bocce ball and cornhole can keep the kids amused while Mom and Dad enjoy an outdoor tasting.

2134 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, (707) 526-2255

DeLoach Vineyards

Courtesy of DeLoach Vineyards

In addition to creating Hook & Ladder, Cecil De Loach founded his namesake vineyard, DeLoach Vineyards. The winery is known as a pioneer producer of pinot noir, chardonnay, and zinfandel in Sonoma County. The family-friendly winery appeals to kids because of its Theater of Nature experience. On this self-guided tour families will wind through the 20-acre organic farm seeing a culinary garden and composting area, and most fun for kids, the vineyards’ chickens, sheep, and goats. For a unique tasting for the adults, select the Burgundy and Sonoma tasting that compares the pinot noir and chardonnay of California to the same grapes grown in France.

1791 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, (707) 755-3300

Buena Vista Winery

Courtesy of Buena Vista Winery

Founded in 1857, Buena Vista Winery is the oldest commercial winery in California and is also one of the most fun for kids to explore. Tours are led by actors in period attire and take visitors to the wine caves and historic wine museum. There’s also a picnic area and hedge maze on property for the little ones to enjoy while the adults belly up to the bar for a tasting or head to the Bubble Lounge to sip some sparklers.

18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, CA 95476, (800) 926-1266

With these eight family-friendly wineries in Sonoma, the entire family can enjoy a vacation to California’s beautiful Wine Country. From unique tours to outdoor games, these kid-friendly wineries cater to everyone in the family toasting to making memories in Sonoma.

– Where To Stay in Sonoma County –

– Most Beautiful Wineries in Sonoma County –

The post Top Family-Friendly Wineries in Sonoma County first appeared on WineCountry.com.

The Livermore and Tri-Valley Traveler’s Guide

WineCountry Staff — Wed, 24 Feb 2016 08:43:52 +0000

Livermore Valley has long been one of the historic centers of the California wine industry, but today, Livermore sits atop many wine lovers’ bucket lists, bottling gorgeous Chardonnays, Cabernets, and Petite Sirahs, to name a few. A handful of towns, like Livermore, Dublin, Pleasanton, and Danville, each offer unique attractions and some great dining opportunities—all less than an hour outside San Francisco.

Where to Stay

Image Source: TripAdvisor

The Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort and Spa
4549 Cross Rd
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 606-8855
TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 73 reviews

From the comfort of your room at Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort, sweeping views of the hotel’s very own olive grove can be seen, from which they make their own olive oil. The oil is used at the spa, too, which offers a full menu of massage and facial services. The Purple Orchid is an exceptional retreat from the daily grind, where guests enjoy a complimentary gathering hour each evening with hors d’oeuvres and wine, as well as a sumptuous breakfast each morning served plated in the dining room.

Insider tip: For a full-on luxury experience, book the spacious Vintner’s Estate Suite, which includes breakfast in bed.

Image Source: The Rose Hotel

The Rose Hotel
807 Main St
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 275-5112
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 150 reviews

Conveniently located right in downtown Pleasanton, no detail goes unnoticed at the classically elegant Rose Hotel. In keeping with the name, bouquets of roses adorn the lobby, and you’ll even find a fresh rose in each suite. Complimentary breakfast is available each morning, served with Peet’s coffee, and guests are welcome to stick their hands in the cookie or candy jar all day long.

Insider tip: Bring multiple pairs of shoes: The hotel will polish them overnight, placing them outside your door with the newspaper each morning.

Image Source: Pleasanton Marriott

Pleasanton Marriott
Dublin Canyon Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 847-6000
TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 237 reviews

This pet-friendly Marriott offers sleek, modern comfort while celebrating the local wine industry (a variety of Livermore bottles are ready to be uncorked at the bar). In addition to a fully equipped fitness center, this mainstay has a lovely outdoor swimming pool, framed by cabanas and comfortable red chaise lounges. The rooms are spacious and well appointed for business or leisure.

Insider tip: You can’t go wrong with the view, whatever the direction. To the east, you can see city lights, and to the west, rolling hills. Many guests do, however prefer rooms overlooking the pool, as they tend to be the quietest.

Where to Eat

Image Source: Yelp

Khyber Pass Kabob
7467 Village Pkwy, Ste 9
Dublin, CA 94568
(925) 828-6000
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 25 reviews
Reservations: Not required

Khyber Pass Kabob is all-too-easy to miss, but once you find it, you’re in for a colorful, yet homey, experience. The restaurant serves traditional Afghan cuisine, and as the name suggests, specializes in kabobs, but they also have an extensive vegetarian menu. The food is a well-kept local secret for the gastronomically adventurous.

Insider tip: Locals love this place, and that means lines, since they don’t take reservations. The easiest way to skip the wait is to arrive at 11 a.m. for opening and enjoy an early lunch.

Image Source: Yelp

The Last Word
2470 First St
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 493-7293
TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 7 reviews
Reservations: Not required

The Last Word takes the traditional American bar into the twenty-first century. A friendly neighborhood bar, but with a sleek, trendy feel, The Last Word cooks up classic American comfort food with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients. They’re famous for the cocktails, but also have an awesome wine-on-tap program.

Insider tip: Like old-fashioneds? They make five different versions. Try the Oaxacan, which replaces bourbon with mezcal.

Image Source: Sabio on Main

Sabio on Main
501 Main St
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 800-3090
TripAdvisor: 3.5 stars, 11 reviews
Reservations: Not required

You can build up quite an appetite after a day of wine tasting, and Sabio on Main is an easy place to kick back and unwind while satisfying your cravings. This inventive tapas bar puts an international take on traditional Spanish fare, with dishes like grilled Spanish octopus and rum-glazed Kurobuta pork belly. Wash everything down with a glass of wine or an artisanal cocktail.

Insider tip: You might be inclined to overlook a tapas joint for brunch, but Sabio serves up one of the best in town. Their decadent cinnamon brioche French toast with brûlée marshmallow is a must.

What to Do

Image Source: Yelp

Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site
Danville, CA 94526
(925) 838-0249
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 35 reviews

Escaping to wine country is hardly a new concept, and celebrated American playwright and Nobel Prize-winner Eugene O’Neill felt the same way. O’Neill took residence in a home outside Danville during his peak creative years, and it was here where he finished Long Days Journey Into Night. His “Tao” house is decorated with Chinese accents, and today, the National Parks Service maintains the site for future generations.

Insider tip: Don’t plug it into your GPS. The only way to access the house is by a free shuttle that leaves from downtown Danville. Make sure to plan in advance, as you won’t be able to drive there on your own.

Image Source: Tri-Valley Beer Trail

Tri-Valley Beer Trail
Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin and Danville, CA

Wine Country doesn’t have to be all about wine. In fact, the Livermore area is home to sixteen craft and micro-breweries, offering a full spectrum of flavors from light lagers to hearty stouts. If you have to pick one brewery, stick with Altamont Beer Works. They craft some great brew, but make sure to try their double IPA, if that’s your style.

Insider tip: Visit Tri-Valley has even created a handy printable passport, and if you collect a stamp from each of the breweries, you can claim a free T-shirt at their visitor center in Pleasanton.

Image Source: Yelp

Callippe Preserve Golf Course
8500 Clubhouse Dr
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 426-6666
TripAdvisor: 5 stars, 3 reviews

The eighteen-hole Callippe Preserve Golf Course is a premier golf destination in the Livermore area, and an active alternative to experiencing the majesty of wine country, with breathtaking views to be found at each tee.

Insider tip: You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy Callippe: they have team of golf instructors available, should you wish to hone some skills before teeing off with your pals.

Image Source: Yelp

The Winemakers Studio at Wente Vineyards
5465 Tesla Rd
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 456-2450
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 49 reviews

The entirety of California is indebted to Wente Vineyards for their innovations with Chardonnay. Their winemakers have been at the forefront of the industry since the winery’s inception in 1883, and now, Wente is welcoming guests into their Winemakers Studio, Thursday through Sunday, to show the work that goes into each and every bottle. Guests can choose from a variety of experiences, from a blending class to a wine and cheese pairing seminar.

Insider tip: If your nose is up for the challenge, book the Wine Aroma Discovery. For even the most refined wine enthusiast, it can be a rather humbling experience, but you’ll enjoy the nuances of wine even more once you’ve completed it.

Image Source: Yelp

Concannon Vineyard
4590 Tesla Rd
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 456-2505
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 58 reviews

One of Livermore’s most historic properties, Concannon combines a variety of tasting experiences with a knowledgeable staff who will guide you through the estate and talk through each variety. Or, if you just want to kick back on the stunning and sleek outdoor porch, the Underdog Wine Bar is a great place to sample from an international wine list.

Insider tip: Concannon Vineyard is famous for its Petite Sirah (as well as their Cabernet). Make sure to taste one of their many wines, including their Port-style dessert wine.

Image Source: Yelp, facebook

The Steven Kent Winery
5443 Tesla Rd
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 243-6440
TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 24 reviews

When Steven Kent Mirassou founded his winery in 1996, he was on a mission to create a Cabernet on par with the greatest in the world. With his flagship, called Lineage, he’s crafted one of the finest wines in Livermore, certainly capable competing on a global stage. Today, the winery welcomes visitors year-round to its rustically elegant tasting room, where top-notch educators introduce you to the intricacies of Livermore Valley wine.

Insider tip: While Livermore may be famous for its reds, don’t skip out on the whites: The traditional Bordeaux grape Sémillion does particularly well here, and Steven Kent’s “Lola” (a blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc) proves just that.

Whatever the reason to visit, a trip to Livermore offers a quaint, full-bodied alternative to the usual mainstays of the region; enjoy your trip to this cozy corner of northern California.

The post The Livermore and Tri-Valley Traveler’s Guide first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Your Guide to Texas Hill Country

WineCountry Staff — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 09:00:10 +0000

The Texas Hill Country AVA is one of the most visited and largest in the country, with an area of more than nine million acres. But among the vast tracks of Texas countryside and major cities like San Antonio, there are many gems that the crowds pass by. Here are some of the more interesting, refined places to visit in this diverse region.

Where to Stay

Image Source: Cotton Gin Village

Cotton Gin Village
2805 S State Hwy 16
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
(830) 990-5734
TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 73 reviews

Near the Gillespie County Airport and just three miles away from downtown Fredericksburg, the quaint cottages of Cotton Gin Village are still a Texas secret. With rustic wooden cabins, a night at Cottage Gin Village will make you feel like an early pioneer—if, of course, the pioneers had access to lush modern amenities like comfortable furniture and large baths. The cabins actually date back to the 1800s, and were transported from different states, so guests can enjoy history and comfort together.

Insider tip: Don’t leave your room before trying the basket of goodies left by the staff at your doorstep every morning—the homemade cinnamon buns are worth the indulgence.

Image Source: Twin Elm Guest Ranch

Twin Elm Guest Ranch
810 FM 470
Bandera, TX 78003
(830) 796-3628
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 87 reviews

Twin Elm Guest Ranch is a verifiable “dude ranch” located on the outskirts of Bandera, the cowboy capital of Texas, so the lodging is rustic, wooden, and earthy. The beds are huge, and some rooms include private porches where you can reserve your own special glimpse of the Texas stars. Of course, plenty of horseback riding is available around Twin Elm Guest Ranch’s 300 acres of diverse, secluded terrain.

Insider tip: For families, Twin Elm Guest Ranch has plenty of multi-bed options for reasonable prices, and a few rooms include bunk beds.

Image Source: Buchanan Cabins

Buchanan Cabins
20970 TX-127
Concan, TX 78838
(830) 232-6118
TripAdvisor: 3 stars, 10 reviews

Buchanan Cabins is a family-operated resort in the south end of Texas Hill Country, located on a healthy portion of the spring-fed Frio River, which is ideal for swimming, tubing, or just sunbathing. The cabins provide air conditioning, fireplaces, and ovens, making them more comfortable than camping. A meeting area also includes Wi-Fi and a low-key restaurant.

Insider tip: Remember to bring your own linens—Buchanan Cabins doesn’t provide sheets, pillowcases, or towels.

Where to Eat

Image Source: Pompeii Italian Grill, TripAdvisor

Pompeii Italian Grill
16109 Nacogdoches Rd
San Antonio, TX 78247
(210) 946-5518
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 51 reviews
Reservations: Not required

Located at the southern extreme of Texas Hill Country, San Antonio is busier than most of the region, but the Italy-meets-Texas flavors of Pompeii Italian Grill are worth venturing into the metropolis. With an exterior that looks like Pompeii before the volcanic eruption, and a roomy and naturally lit dining room, this restaurant serves unpretentious and heaping portions of ziti, grilled trout, and veal parmesan. Families are welcome, but the bar also slings a mean margarita.

Insider tip: Live harp music floats through the dining area on weekends, so Pompeii Italian Grill makes a fine Texas date night.

Image Source: Yelp

18 Oaks
23808 Resort Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78261
(210) 491-5825
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 179 reviews
Reservations: Recommended

18 Oaks brings inventive fine dining to the heart of San Antonio, whether you are seeking a succulent steak or seared scallops. Although it is located inside a JW Marriott, 18 Oaks is not your average hotel eatery—sustainable, local ingredients make it a Texas original. The white glove approach to steaks include a choice of gourmet sauces, like au poivre or béarnaise.

Insider tip: The Sunday brunch buffet, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., includes unlimited mimosas, so reservations are strongly recommended.

Image Source: Yelp

Silo Elevated Cuisine
1133 Austin Hwy
San Antonio, TX 78209
(210) 824-8686
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 181 reviews
Reservations: Recommended

Silo Elevated Cuisine takes over two stories: the bottom is a cozy, friendly bar with craft cocktails, while the experienced kitchen on the top floor serves New American cuisine including top-shelf takes on Texas barbecue. Silo Elevated Cuisine’s take on Southern favorites like shrimp & grits, fried oysters, and dirty rice will leave your stomach and palate satisfied, but save room for a heaping slice of the toasted coconut pie.

Insider tip: If you’re hungry, but not enough-so for a gourmet meal, small plates—including pizzas—are served at the downstairs bar.

What to Do

Image Source: Yelp

Hill Country Wine Tours

Hill Country Wine Tours picks you up in a customized limousine and then leads you on a Texas Hill Country adventure, which includes stops at four wineries. Most importantly, the tour guides will meet with your group and formulate a customized plan depending on the day’s winery events, what types of wine you enjoy, and what vineyards you have already visited.

Insider tip: If your tour takes you through Johnson City, make a request to your driver to swing by Whittington’s Jerky & General Store.

Image Source: Yelp

Lewis Wines
3209 W Hwy 290
Johnson City, TX 78636
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 21 reviews
Reservations: Not required

Although the tasting area is very simple, the vistas of the Texan hills and scrub brush are worth the appointment with Lewis Wines, about a 30-minute drive from Fredericksburg. On occasion, Lewis Wines will host pop-up dinner events featuring local chefs who craft delicious meals with local ingredients.

Insider tip: You’re far from reliable cellular service so don’t depend on your GPS. Instead, keep an eye out for the unassuming barn off the highway.

Image Source: Yelp

Wildseed Farms
100 Legacy Dr
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
(800) 848-0078
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 596 reviews

As a wildflower farm, Wildseed Farms may contain more colorful wildflowers in one place than you’ll find anywhere else in the nation. Even if you aren’t in the market for wildflower seeds, you can still traipse around the acres of blossoms, butterflies, and sunshine. Since it never gets too cold in Texas, there is something blooming during every season of the year.

Insider tip: Stop by Brewbonnet Biergarten for some bratwurst and beer during your visit.

Image Source: Yelp

Cascade Caverns
226 Cascade Cavern
Boerne, TX 78015
(830) 755-8080
TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 101 reviews

Cascade Caverns might not have the same fame as other cave systems in the United States, but the unique geological features are well preserved and one-of-a-kind. For those who want to stay above ground, this park also includes 100 acres of cedar forest and a well-maintained campground. Beat the Texas heat—the caverns stay a cool 64 degrees year round.

Insider tip: If motorcycles and chicken fried steak are calling your name, make a stop at Mama’s Cafe in Boerne a short drive from the caverns.

A visit to Texas Hill Country is always diverse, unexpected experience. Even though the region is sprawling, you will never be too far from either elegance or unfussy Texas hospitality.

The post Your Guide to Texas Hill Country first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Things to Do in Livermore: From the Outdoors to Oddities

WineCountry Staff — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 09:00:44 +0000

The charming city of Livermore is located about 45 minutes away from the San Francisco Bay Area, but you couldn’t be farther away from the urban bustle if you tried. Visitors can find a range of activities that include spending a weekend in nature, to a multitude of options as far as fine dining is concerned. Local attractions are at the heart of Livermore, and tourists are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities. Here are some of our favorites.

A Weekend Getaway From the Bay

Image Source: Yelp

Del Valle Regional Park
7000 Del Valle Rd
Livermore, CA 94550
(510) 544-3139
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 77 reviews

A getaway for the weekend doesn’t require a long road trip to find a secluded forest. The surroundings of this park are replete with nature—a luxury in and of itself, and only 10 miles south of downtown Livermore in Del Valle Regional Park. On top of its social-centric, communal-style camping, this park has large grass fields for picnics and outdoor activities like canoe rentals, kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing-supplies. The family dog will be just as pleased by the offerings at Del Valle Regional Park, where fantastic hikes overlook the water in a thoroughly pooch-friendly setting. Camping does require a reservation, so make sure you plan ahead.
Insider tip: Del Valle Regional Park also offers an audio boat tour that will answer any questions about the lake and wildlife in the area. Bring your jacket, sunscreen, and binoculars for maximum enjoyment.

Learn About the World We Live In

Image Source: Lawrence Livermore National Lab

Lawrence Livermore National Lab Discovery Center
7000 East Ave
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 423-3272
TripAdvisor: 5 stars, 7 reviews

One of the more unique attractions of Livermore is the Lawrence Livermore National Lab Discovery Center. Their shows make this center friendly for all ages and truly bring science to life as different teachers host lively demonstrations and experiments. In addition, educational scavenger hunts are offered for kids—a cool opportunity to learn about the world—but there are also informative and engaging displays for adults, too, so nobody misses out. The Discovery Center, located off Greenville Road on Eastgate Drive, is open to the public Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m., so don’t miss the exhibits if you get a chance to stop by.
Insider tip: Plan to visit the Lawrence Livermore National Lab Discovery Center before or after lunch, as there aren’t any restaurants in walking distance.

Have a Taste of Beer in the Wine Country

Image Source: Yelp

Altamont Beer Works
2402 Research Dr
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 443-2337
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 10 reviews

This brewery in the middle of Livermore’s wine country has become a popular attraction for the locals as well as visitors. Crowds increase when food is available, typically on the weekends; but even when food is not offered, visitors still flock to meet local brewers who pack a true handle on their craft. For fans of of IPA, this brewery should take a place at the top of the list; if you’re picky, no worries—Altamont Beer Works let you taste before you make your purchase selection, and tastings are only $5 per person.
Insider tip: While their seasonal and specialty beers are hard to pass up, IPA fans love the “Hella Hoppy.”

Discover Livermore’s Unique History

Image Source: Centennial Light Bulb

Centennial Light Bulb
Fire Station #6
4550 East Avenue
Livermore, CA 94550
(678) 696-5305
TripAdvisor: 5 stars, 4 reviews

Among Livermore’s attractions is a unique part of local history called the Centennial Light Bulb, which is the longest-burning bulb in the world. This attraction only requires a quick stop inside a fire station, and it really is an amazing piece of science that gives kids a chance to say that they have seen a unique piece of American history.
Insider tip: Think about it: this bulb has been burning for 114 years. That’s almost one million hours—something to put a three-hour car ride into perspective, don’t you think?

Concerts With an Unforgettable View

Image Source: Wente Vineyards

Concerts at Wente Vineyards
5050 Arroyo Rd
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 456-2424
TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 79 reviews

The wine culture and Concerts at the Wente Vineyards are a unique combination of incredible performances with the view of a pristine vineyard setting. How else would you want to end a night than with fine dining and music? Past performances include Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Smokey Robinson and other popular artists like Colbie Caillat and Christina Perri.
Insider tip: The most popular concert lineups occur throughout the months of July and August, and tickets usually go on sale in the end of May, so keep a lookout for announcements.

Find Your Workout in Nature

Image Source: Yelp

Brushy Peak Regional Preserve
Livermore, CA 94551
(888) 327-2757
TripAdvisor: 5 stars, 4 reviews

The Brushy Peak Regional Preserve offers two trails for runners and lovers of the great outdoors. One trail goes straight to the 1,700-foot Brushy Peak, and the other is slightly longer, but less steep. Depending on what type of runner you are, these trails offer either a long endurance run, or a short, yet challenging, cardiovascular workout. It’s a moderate-sized park just off of the 580 Freeway, so it’s accessible, but best of all, entry is free. Brushy Peak is known to be less crowded and is friendly to bikes, pedestrians, horses, and dogs.
Insider tip: Be aware that the trails do not offer much shade, so bring lots of water to stay hydrated, and don’t forget the sunscreen.

Segway Through the Vineyards

Image Source: TripAdvisor

Livermore Tour Co.
2255 Fourth St
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 337-6323
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 3 reviews

Segways have become a popular way of touring new places, and you can find them rolling around most cities in Europe. If you have never ridden a Segway before, consider giving it a shot in the beautiful scenic trails and charming vineyards of Livermore. The segway tours are led by a guide, which frees you up to enjoy the views without getting lost. Five different tours are available, all approximately 2.5 hours long, where you can take in the essence of Livermore Wine Country. Tour times vary depending on which you choose to take, so call ahead for the schedule.
Insider tip: Leave about 30 minutes at the end of your schedule so you don’t have to rush through the last winery.

Catch Classic Films With Vintage Vibes

Image Source: Yelp

Vine Cinema & Alehouse
1722 First St
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 447-2545
TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 31 reviews

The Vine Cinema & Alehouse isn’t your ordinary movie theatre. Visitors can purchase amazing beer, food, and wine that are all served table- or couch-side, inside the theatre. While the amenities are modern, this theater has an alternative ambiance that differentiates it from a traditional movie theatre: classic and independent films are shown, and even live sporting events if the need arises. Large groups are welcome, but it can also be a fun way to tack on something unique to a date night as well. In any case, the cinematic atmosphere is accompanied by calamari appetizers, classic burgers, and a large selection of wine and draft beer at the ready: it’s hard to go wrong, and hey—it might even be better than popcorn.
Insider tip: You can also order food from Zephyr Grill next door and bring it to the theater if you’d like.

A wide range of activities makes it hard for visitors to pick and choose. Whether you decide to take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in Wine Country through lively Segway tours, or enjoy rollicking concerts in the rolling vineyards, Livermore proves to be a flavorful area with events that fill the calendar year-round.

The post Things to Do in Livermore: From the Outdoors to Oddities first appeared on WineCountry.com.