Day trips from SF: San Francisco to Napa Valley with Kids
Planning a trip from San Francisco to Napa Valley with kids? Whether you’re a family seeking outdoor fun, kid-friendly wineries, or unique experiences, Napa Valley is an excellent destination for parents and children. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring Napa Valley with kids, including fun stops between San Francisco and Napa, and the best Napa Valley wineries with kids in mind.
Kid-Friendly Stops Between San Francisco and Napa Valley
The drive from San Francisco to Napa Valley is relatively short—about 1.5 hours—but several great stops will make the journey more exciting for the little ones.
Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito)
Located just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Area Discovery Museum is a perfect stop for kids to stretch their legs. This museum will keep children entertained for hours with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and outdoor spaces to explore. It also has a fantastic view of the Golden Gate Bridge!
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom (Vallejo)
For a bigger thrill and a longer break, stop by Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo. This family-friendly amusement park offers a range of attractions for kids of all ages, from roller coasters to animal encounters. It’s a great way to break up the drive and give kids an exciting experience before arriving in Napa.
Fairfield Jelly Belly Factory
Who doesn’t love jelly beans? The Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield, located about 30 minutes from Napa, offers free tours that kids (and adults) will enjoy. Watch the candy-making process, sample flavors, and even take home a bag of your favorites!
The Best Napa Valley Wineries with Kids
Believe it or not, Napa Valley isn’t just for wine-tasting adults. Several Napa Valley wineries offer family-friendly amenities and activities, ensuring parents and kids have an enjoyable experience.
Castello di Amorosa (Calistoga)
This medieval-inspired castle is one of the most popular family-friendly Napa Valley wineries with kids. Kids will love exploring the castle’s towers, drawbridges, and even a dungeon! While parents enjoy wine tasting, children can explore the castle or take part in grape juice tastings. It’s a fun and unique winery that keeps kids entertained.
Sterling Vineyards (Calistoga)
Take your family on an aerial tram ride up to Sterling Vineyards, which offers stunning views of Napa Valley. Kids will love the tram ride and the expansive outdoor spaces where they can run and explore. While you sip on wine, children can enjoy grape juice tastings and snacks in a family-friendly environment.
V. Sattui Winery (St. Helena)
V. Sattui is another excellent option for families. The winery has a large picnic area where families can enjoy a casual lunch together. They also offer a market with delicious deli foods, cheeses, and kid-friendly snacks. This is the perfect spot for parents to enjoy a glass of wine while kids have space to play.
Frog’s Leap Winery (Rutherford)
Frog’s Leap Winery has a laid-back, welcoming vibe that makes it ideal for families visiting Napa Valley with kids. The winery features a beautiful garden where children can explore and learn about sustainable farming practices. There are even farm animals to entertain the little ones!
Family-Friendly Activities in Napa Valley
Once you arrive in Napa Valley, there’s plenty for families to do beyond visiting wineries. Here are a few must-visit spots to keep your kids engaged and happy:
Napa Valley Adventure Playground
Located in the town of Napa, the Napa Valley Adventure Playground is a kid’s paradise. With ropes courses, climbing structures, and plenty of space for imaginative play, it’s an excellent place for children to burn off energy.
Napa Valley Wine Train
While the Napa Valley Wine Train is often considered an adult activity, it offers family-friendly experiences. Kids will love riding on the vintage train through the scenic Napa Valley countryside. Some train packages even include kid-approved meals and activities.
Calistoga’s Old Faithful Geyser
A visit to Calistoga’s Old Faithful Geyser is a fun educational stop for families. Watch as the geyser erupts every 30 minutes, and check out the nearby petting zoo and picnic area.
Tips for Visiting Napa Valley with Kids
- Plan shorter winery visits: While parents enjoy leisurely wine tastings, kids might become restless. Choose wineries that offer outdoor space, play areas, or activities to keep them engaged.
- Pack snacks and drinks: Many Napa Valley wineries have food options, but it’s always a good idea to pack snacks, water, and drinks for the kids.
- Stay at a family-friendly hotel: There are several family-friendly accommodations in Napa Valley, like the Embassy Suites Napa Valley, which offers spacious rooms and pools to keep children entertained after a day of exploring.
Conclusion
Napa Valley with kids doesn’t have to be challenging. With plenty of family-friendly wineries, outdoor spaces, and kid-approved activities, it’s easy to turn your trip into a memorable adventure for the whole family. Whether you’re stopping by the Jelly Belly Factory on your way or exploring the stunning grounds of Castello di Amorosa, there’s something for everyone when visiting Napa Valley with kids.
