By The Morrison Family · Parents + two kids (10 and 13) from Denver, first wine region family trip
Checked into a Yountville resort with a pool (essential with kids in July). The children swam while we arranged next-day appointments. Late afternoon walk through the town — kids loved the Napa Valley Railway Inn cabooses. Dinner at Bottega (family-friendly Italian by Michael Chiarello). Tip: many wineries won't admit under-21s, so plan ahead.
Started at Castello di Amorosa — kids were obsessed with the 121-room medieval castle (complete with moat, drawbridge, and torture chamber). Adults did a reserve tasting (€40pp) while kids explored. Sterling Vineyards has a gondola ride up the mountain that the whole family loved. Ended at V. Sattui for a picnic lunch on their grounds — one of the few free tastings in Napa.
Morning hot air balloon ride over the valley (€250pp adults, €200 kids — splurge but unforgettable). Afternoon at the Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa: artisan cheese, chocolate, olive oil tastings that everyone enjoyed. Made our own blend at a family-friendly blending experience (€100/group). Kids designed their own label.
Quick drive to Sonoma Plaza for a farmers market and more relaxed vibe. The kids preferred Sonoma's casual energy to Napa's polish. Tasted at a family-run estate where the winemaker's dog became our kids' best friend. Headed to SFO with a case of wine in the trunk.
Would have split time 50/50 between Napa and Sonoma. Sonoma is much more family-friendly — more picnic-friendly wineries, fewer 'no under 21' policies, and a more relaxed pace. Also, July is HOT — bring hats, sunscreen, and plan indoor activities for midday.
Napa with kids requires planning. Call wineries ahead to confirm they allow children. Budget more than you think — Napa tastings average $50-75pp and add up fast. The best family memories came from non-wine activities (balloon, market, blending) so don't over-schedule winery visits.
Was this trip report helpful?
Planning your own trip?
Read the Napa Valley Wine Guide →