Heading to California wine country with kids? From family-friendly wine tastings to worthwhile kid activities, here’s your guide to the best kid-friendly experiences and wineries Sonoma and Napa have to offer

While fall may (technically) be the best season for a trip to wine country, families can (and should!) enjoy a kid-friendly trip to Sonoma and Napa any time of the year. With a world-class crop of family-friendly wineries in both spots (making the choice between Sonoma or Napa for kids even harder), we can guarantee that these wineries offer lots of kid-friendly activities, games to keep the little ones entertained, and loads of fun things to do nearby. You can feel good making any of these destinations a fantastic wine-centric family vacation.

We’ve broken down the entire Northern California wine region and then some below—and if you’re looking for more, don’t miss our editor-approved guide to Santa Rosa, kid-friendly things to do in Healdsburg, and our kid-friendly guide to exploring Calistoga. Click here to jump to Sonoma with kids recommendations below or you can jump to our favorite kid-friendly Napa Valley activity recommendations. Editor’s note: While we do our very best to ensure that these locations are kid-friendly, please confirm with the establishment before visiting as things can change. 

The Best Family-Friendly Wineries in Napa Valley (Napa, Calistoga, Yountville & St. Helena)

1. Frog’s Leap

This "green" kid-friendly winery welcomes children and four-legged furry friends alike (note: on a leash, please! The dogs, that is). After your tasting, you can stroll through their bountiful fruit and vegetable garden (no sampling, please!). 

8815 Conn Creek Rd.
Rutherford
Online: frogsleap.com

2. V. Sattui Winery

V. Sattui knows that there's nothing that pairs better with a great wine than some delicious meats and cheeses. Their artisan deli offers something for everyone—over 200 cheeses, desserts including creme brulee and gelato, and on the weekends you can dig in to some barbecued ribs and wood-fired pizza. Kids will enjoy romping through the over two acres of picnic grounds making this Napa Valley with kids spot a no-brainer.

1111 White Lane
St. Helena
Online: vsattui.com

3. Napa Cellars

With bocce ball, ladder ball, and corn hole games to keep them busy, this Oakville spot is a natural choice for families. Live music and plenty of picnic tables will make you sit and stay a while, making this one of the best family-friendly wine tastings around. 

7481 St. Helena Hwy. South
Oakville
Online: napacellars.com

4. Costello di Amororsa

Nothing screams kid-friendly wineries in Calistoga more than an Italian castle replica from the Middle Ages. Book a guided tour that features everything from knight armor to a dungeon and a chance to meet the winery cats, dogs, and farm animals. Little royals can sip grape juice and enjoy coloring in the grand Knights Hall tasting room. Note: strollers are not allowed inside the winery. 

4045 St. Helena Hwy.
Calistoga
Online: castellodiamorosa.com

5. Alpha Omega Winery

This family-friendly St. Helena winery offers the coloring book, "Exploring the Napa Valley with Traveler Teddies," a kid-friendly guide to the Napa Valley, presented with a box of crayons to the youngest visitors. Dogs on leashes are also welcomed. 

1155 Mee Lane at Hwy. 29
St. Helena
Online: aowinery.com

6. Honig Vineyard & Winery

For a leisurely-paced tasting in a gorgeous setting, this is your spot. Drive down the long driveway and opt for an outdoor table. Kids and dogs are welcome and they usually have snacks and coloring books to keep the little ones occupied.

850 Rutherford Rd.
Rutherford
Online: honigwine.com

The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Napa Valley (Napa, Calistoga & St. Helena)

1. Oxbow Public Market

The benefit of visiting this spot is that there is literally something for every taste available. Burgers, cupcakes, oysters, and more—grab your fave, pick a table and dig in.

610 & 644 First St.
Napa
Online: oxbowpublicmarket.com

2. Fleetwood at Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa

This ultra-kid-friendly spot should definitely be on your list when you visit wine country. They have an expansive outdoor eating area as well as an indoor dining area with a fun view of the open kitchen that the kids will enjoy. The menu of shareable items has something that everyone will enjoy. You'll love the property's retro vibe and the kids can play in the hammocks and sit by the fire pit while you savor your after-dinner drink. 

1880 Lincoln Ave. 
Calistoga
Online: fleetwoodcalistoga.com

3. Boon Fly Cafe

The world-famous Boon Fly donuts are not to be missed on your next trip to Napa. A bucket of these babies for the kids and spicy bacon Bloody Marys for the grown-ups are the perfect way to start your day. Give the breakfast flatbreads a try. They won't disappoint!

4048 Sonoma Hwy.
Napa
Online: boonflycafe.com

4. Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch

Dine in this old barn with plenty of seating, an open kitchen to entertain the littles, and tasty farm-to-table cuisine that changes with the season. Enjoy live music on the outdoor patio when the weather cooperates and make sure you save room for the Scharffenberger chocolate cream pie—you won't regret it.

738 Main St.
St. Helena
Online: longmeadowranch.com

The Best Kid-Friendly Activities in Napa Valley (Napa & Calistoga)

Heading to Napa Valley with kids is a no-brainer thanks to trains, petrified forests, and geysers to explore!

1. The Napa Valley Wine Train

Part living history museum and part culinary experience, the Napa Valley Wine train takes families on an idyllic journey up and down Napa all without the traffic. Train and food lovers alike will delight in this indulgent trip—this is one of our absolute favorite things to do in Napa.

1275 McKinstry St.
Napa
Online: winetrain.com

2. The Petrified Forest

Take a walk through this ancient forest where a volcano eruption turned trees into stone. You can explore on your own or take the docent-led 1.5-hour walk to learn about the area's history.

4100 Petrified Forest Rd.
Calistoga
Online: petrifiedforest.org

3. Old Faithful Geyser of California

Spend a few hours exploring the property and watching the geyser erupt. Grab a picnic table or enjoy a game of bocce ball. The kids will be amazed to see the property's animals which include llamas, four-horned sheep, and the famous fainting goats!

1299 Tubbs Ln.
Calistoga
Online: oldfaithfulgeyser.com

4. CIA at Copia

If you are looking for an epicurean experience to share with the whole family, book a Sunday family cooking class at the CIA at Copia in downtown Napa. Here you'll get an interactive demonstration experience making dim sum, eclairs, mac and cheese, and more. Each class has a different theme and you just might get to sample your creations at the end!

500 1st St.
Napa
Online: ciaatcopia.com

The Best Places to Stay in Napa with Kids

1. Meritage Resort & Spa

Family fun and wine country are perfectly paired at this family-friendly hotel. Poolside cabanas invite families to long, lazy days by the pool while a bowling alley will challenge little bowlers to get their strikes on. We loved the Village green with its food trucks and lawn games while the adults wine tasted at one of the four tasting rooms. Acres of a working vineyard on site lets kids roam freely and is absolutely gorgeous at dusk. A short hike up to the famous "Crusher" statue will reward you with sweeping views of Napa Valley at your feet. 

875 Bordeaux Way
Napa
Online: meritageresort.com

2. Carneros Resort and Spa

With cottages, suites, and residences, Carneros Resort and Spa is your go-to spot for a luxurious family getaway. During the summer months, parents can enjoy a night out while kids enjoy a delicious dinner, an array of fun and exciting games, and a kid-friendly movie. If you find you need a moment to yourself, take a dip in the adult-only pool while your partner takes the kids to the family pool.

4048 Sonoma Hwy.
Napa
Online: carnerosresort.com

The Best Kid-Friendly Wineries in Sonoma

1. Cline Cellars Vineyard and Winery

350 acres means something for everyone at this family go-to. And while the grounds don’t look like much driving in, once you’re behind the wall kiddos get treated to a breadth of pretty lawns, ponds, paths, and fountains, and the California Mission Museum with its historic display of all 21 missions built to scale in 1939. They’ll love the turtles, fish, and exotic birds while you’ll love the wine tasting in a charming 1850s farmhouse.

24737 Arnold Dr.
Sonoma
Online: clinecellars.com

2. Bartholomew Estate Vineyards and Winery

Bartholomew Estate Winery sits within the 375-acre Bartholomew Park. Guests with children and leashed fur babies can purchase bottles at the winery and enjoy a picnic at the many gardens, lawns, and picnic areas. You can also purchase picnic blankets and to-go wine cups on-site. The park also offers over three miles of hiking trails to explore.

1000 Vineyard Ln.
Sonoma
Online: bartholomewestate.com

The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Sonoma

1. Lou's Luncheonette

You'll love this stop as it has many kid-friendly favorites: fried chicken, biscuits, sandwiches, deviled eggs, pimento cheese, collard greens, and baked beans. Desserts include fried pies, milkshakes, and soft serve. Choose a spot on the patio where the kids can dig with the restaurant-provided dump trucks.

2698 Fremont Dr.
Sonoma
Online: lousluncheonette.com

2. Sunflower Caffe

Right in the middle of Sonoma's central square, you will find the simple, delicious food of Sunflower Caffe. Open for breakfast and lunch, the lines can get long, but it's worth the wait to grab some farm-fresh eggs or the ever-popular grilled cheese sandwich. Their expansive back patio is full of water fountains and tons of spots to explore or sit for a bit.

421 First St. W
Sonoma
Online: sonomasunflower.com

The Best Family-Friendly Wineries in Sonoma County (Santa Rosa, Healdsburg & the Russian River Valley)

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1. Francis Ford Coppola Winery

One of Sonoma County's most popular family-friendly wineries, this spot has two pools, bocce ball courts, a movie gallery showcasing Coppola film props such as Don Corleone's desk from The Godfather and the original automobile from Tucker: The Man and His Dream. The dreamiest part: there's a poolside restaurant where wine and food can be delivered to parents while the littles splash around. You can even rent a cabana for the day for your own private changing area and shower.

300 Via Archimedes
Geyserville
Online: francisfordcoppolawinery.com

2. Truett-Hurst Winery

The Dry Creek Valley is home to this scenic gem that offers creekside Adirondack chairs and picnic tables where you can enjoy a glass of their Salmon Run Zinfandel and, if you are lucky, spot one of the namesake fish as they spawn in the creek. Ask the winery staff for their special glasses that make spotting the salmon even easier. Kids will also love the goats, chickens, and organic gardens on the property.

5610 Dry Creek Rd.
Healdsburg
Online: truetthurstwinery.com

3. Matanzas Creek Winery

Plan your visit to this Santa Rosa gem when the lavender is in bloom. The calming scent takes over the property and you will want to spend the day sipping sauvignon blanc as the kids play cornhole under the massive oak trees. Swing by the lavender market if you want to bring home some lavender-scented bath products or even a bunch of lavender grill sticks for your next barbecue.

6097 Bennett Valley Rd.
Santa Rosa
Online: matanzascreek.com

4. Belden Barns Farmstead & Winery

While Mom and Dad taste wines at Belden Barns Farmstead & Winery in central Sonoma County, the kids can borrow the winery’s scavenger-hunt-style “adventure” backpacks and wander the 55-acre property in search of flora, fauna, and random or whimsical items—making this spot one of the best kid friendly wineries Santa Rosa has to offer. The backpacks are filled with field guides to local birds or insects, magnifying glasses, sketchpads, crayons, and a checklist of things to find. There are also plenty of games for kids to play. Wine tasting is by appointment only.

5561 Sonoma Mountain Rd.
Santa Rosa
Online: beldenbarns.com

5. ACORN Winery

Kids are welcomed to this Healdsburg winery with LEGO bricks, crayons, and cornhole to keep them entertained while parents taste. Children may also explore the vineyards adjacent to the tasting room, join parents on a guided vineyard walk, and taste grapes during harvest. Reservations required.

12040 Old Redwood Hwy.
Healdsburg
Online: acornwinery.com

6. Landmark Vineyards

Hop aboard the complimentary Horse Drawn Carriage Tour. Led by third-generation Sonoma Valley farmer Pat Prather, this tour dives into estate viticulture practices, winemaking techniques, and Sonoma wine history. You can also take a tour of their beautiful building built in 1905.

101 Adobe Canyon Rd.
Kenwood
Online: landmarkwine.com

7. Furthermore Wines

This Russian River Valley spot welcomes your two-legged and four-legged children to join you for a day of bocce ball and picnicking at their Sebastopol winery. Known for its laidback vibe and outstanding pinots, Furthermore is definitely a spot to spend the day. 

3541 Gravenstein Hwy North
Sebastopol
Online: furthermorewines.com

8. Preston Farm and Winery

As the name implies, this winery is also home to animals like sheep, hens, and occasionally pigs. Kids will love the many cats that roam the property (but leave Fido at home for this visit). Grab one of Preston's famed Rhône varietal wines and enjoy it with a picnic lunch on the grass. Grab some pastured eggs and ground lamb in the shop to take home with you (along with your vino, of course).

9282 West Dry Creek Rd.
Healdsburg
Online: prestonfarmandwinery.com

9. Alexander Valley Vineyards

Kids can join in winery and cave tours with their parents, visit the vineyards, and enjoy the winery’s picnic area. They'll also get a chance to meet the winery dogs.

8644 Highway 128
Healdsburg
Online: avvwine.com

 

The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Sonoma County

1. The Barlow

This 12-acre outdoor market district features delicious food, wine crafts, and so much more from over 30 local merchants. Stroll the dog-friendly campus, that was once an applesauce cannery, sip some local wines while the kids enjoy some organic ice cream and romp around on the lawn.

6770 McKinley St.
Sebastopol
Online: thebarlow.net

2. Stockhome Restaurant

Husband and wife restaurateurs Chef Roberth and Andrea Sundell know what it's like to dine out with kids. Parents to four kids themselves, they opened Stockhome in their Petaluma hometown with a keen eye on what would be convenient for families. Kids will especially love the massive-but-delicate Swedish pancakes with fresh berries and vanilla cream and the pita pizza. Bonus: you can be sure they'll behave during the meal as you can bribe them with some of the restaurant's authentic Swedish candies as an end-of-meal treat.

220 Western Ave.
Petaluma
Online: stockhomerestaurant.com

The Best Kid-Friendly Activities in Sonoma County

Of course, a trip to wine country with kids doesn’t mean all wine, all the time. From train rides to trampoline parks, these amazing, kid-friendly destinations in Sonoma County will have your kids begging to return.

1. TrainTown

Generations of parents have made a pit stop at TrainTown, located just a mile down the road from Sonoma's main plaza. Take the 20-minute train ride around the park and then check out the other old-school rides—a carousel, Ferris wheel, dragon coaster, and more. Visit the miniature town and petting zoo before you head out.

20264 Broadway
Sonoma
Online: traintown.com

2. Epicenter Sports and Entertainment Complex

This state-of-the-art fun and fitness center features a trampoline park, an arcade, a bowling alley, an indoor soccer field, laser tag, dining, and more. Put this on your list in case you encounter a rainy day on your wine-country weekend.

3215 Coffey Lane
Santa Rosa
Online: visitepicenter.com

3. Charles M. Schulz Museum and Snoopy's Home Ice

Kids of all ages will enjoy learning about long-time Santa Rosa resident and Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz at this museum with interactive exhibits, animated Peanuts specials, original comic strips, and more. Then head next door to the ice rink that Schulz had built in 1969 for some family skate time and snacks at the Warm Puppy Cafe.

2301 Hardies Ln.
Santa Rosa
Online: schulzmuseum.org & snoopyshomeice.com

4. Safari West

For a real adventure, spend the day in the Sonoma Serengeti at Safari West. This accredited zoo offers guests who are four and older a tour of the 400-acre property in a safari Jeep. Younger guests will enjoy a walking tour where you can meet a flamboyance of flamingos and a tower of giraffes. Extend your stay in one of the property's tent bungalows and wake up to the sounds of wildlife.

3115 Porter Creek Rd.
Santa Rosa
Online: safariwest.com

The Best Places to Stay in Sonoma County with Kids

1. Wildhaven Sonoma

You are going to love this spot right on the Russian River! Safari tents with actual beds are available for families with communal BBQs on site. Walk a few steps down to the river and spend the whole day tubing, catching fish, and enjoying the sun.

2411 Alexander Valley Rd.
Healdsburg
Online: wildhavensonoma.com

2. Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection

If you are looking for the ultimate luxury accommodations, this is the spot. Located in the quiet town of Calistoga, Solage has everything your family will need for their wine country stay. Cottage-style suites provide privacy for your family including outdoor patios to enjoy morning espresso or an afternoon glass of wine. Head to the pool to enjoy Picobar with poolside service. Bikes are available to borrow throughout the property and spa services are available on-site. 

755 Silverado Trail N
Calistoga
Online: aubergeresorts.com

3. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

Camping in wine country! You can set up your tent, rent a cabin, or reserve one of the yurts that sleep up to six people at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. The park has a spring-fed pool that's great for cooling off when the days get hot. Explore the park's pioneer cemetery, hike to the Bale Grist Mill to learn about the milling process, and enjoy the trails and creeks. Old Faithful Geyser is just up the road.

3801 St. Helena Hwy.
Calistoga
Online: reservecalifornia.com

4. The Sandman Santa Rosa

Right off of 101, The Sandman's Santa Rosa location is super convenient for families visiting wine country. The welcoming staff and chill mid-century modern decor will make you feel relaxed the minute you arrive. Families will especially love the family suite—with plenty of room for everyone to spread out. Spend your days lounging by the heated pool where you can purchase snacks, ice cream, and their homemade Frozé (for the parents) at the Pool House & Bar. Summers at The Sandman bring their food truck nights and live music by the pool.

3421 Cleveland Ave.
Santa Rosa
Online: sandmansantarosa.com

5. Flamingo Resort

This family-friendly hotel is the mid-century modern resort of your dreams from the minute you walk into the gorgeous lobby. Families will love the deluxe family room that has a king bed for parents and a bunk bed in a separate room (with a door that closes! Hooray!). A mini fridge will keep your beverages chilled and the room's electric kettle is perfect for morning tea or hot cocoa. Spa facilities are available onsite so definitely book your massage to take full advantage. You can also check out the yoga classes and other wellness programs offered at the health club. 

2777 4th St.
Santa Rosa
Online: flamingoresort.com

6. Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country

This hotel has lots of great options for families including rooms that sleep up to four. The large pool lets kids cool down while outdoor fire pits in the evening and lawn games will keep them entertained. The charming downtown of Santa Rosa is nearby for window-shopping and delicious restaurants. We stumbled upon one of the best hand-crafted ice cream stores we've ever had!

170 Railroad St.
Santa Rosa
Online: hyatt.com

Get out of the house this winter and discover three amazing winter getaway destinations

Staycations are great, but being away is sometimes just what we need. Kids dig hotel stays for the chance to sprint down long hallways and jump like monkeys on the bed. Parents love vacation for the squad-bonding opportunity, replacing the same ole for a new scene and having someone else make the bed for a change. Find great winter destinations that allow for time in the great outdoors and lots of memory-making.

The American Club - Kohler, WI

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Buckle the kids in for a drive 145 miles north of Chicago to the city best known as home to the Kohler company, recognized for its high-quality faucets and bathroom products. But you don’t need to come for the potty talk, folks. Sit back and enjoy all this town has to offer.

For a romantic couples getaway or girlfriends' retreat to the spa, the five-star The American Club and the contemporary The Carriage House guest rooms are your go-to spots. The adults-only atmosphere provides a nice break from any school-year chaos and you and your travel mates will be treated to complimentary yoga, indoor cycling, a Himalayan salt stone lamp, Peloton stationary bikes are provided in select suites and a Wellness Concierge helps to maximize your time and experience.

Families will be more comfortable in the private cabins with gorgeous views, or at the Inn on Woodlake, which features boutique-style guest rooms as well as multi-bedroom suites. They even have a limited number of dog-friendly rooms, so the family pet can tag along.

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Kids stay happily entertained with oodles of family activities that include zombie dodgeball, TopGolf swing simulator, indoor tennis lessons, ice skating, hiking, snowshoeing, sledding, and fat tire biking. If you're in need of time in the kid-free zone, register for the Saturday evening Kidz Dinner and Movie. Kids will enjoy a night of food, movies, and games, while you dine, explore the onsite spa or just catch some much-needed zzz’s. As a bonus, when receiving services at the spa, you can utilize the childcare for at Kids Core at the Sports Core Health & Racquet Club just minutes away.

Add a little culture to your itinerary and visit the John Michael Kohler Arts Center located just five minutes away. With the Art Center's help, stay outside, by taking The Sheboygan Project Walking Tour, which brings the street art movement to Sheboygan. The urban landscape and available wall space is the canvas for works that reflect the city's people and culture.

French Lick Resort - French Lick, IN

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Peace. Quiet. Relaxation. You might have forgotten the meaning of the words, but you’ll quickly recall them at the French Lick Resort in this quiet town snuggled aside a sulfur spring in the southern Indiana woodlands.

This sprawling getaway spot is known for KidsFest, an indoor-outdoor area dedicated to little travelers. Activities include bike rentals, bowling, an arcade, arts and crafts projects, cooking classes, horseback riding, and video games. There’s also an indoor pool, footgolf, horse-drawn carriage rides, and several family-friendly restaurants onsite.

If you find yourself with kid-free time and can resist the urge to nap, bathe in the rejuvenating mineral springs, leave your stress at the spa, shop the Promenade or play the odds at the casino.

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You can easily spend days without leaving the hotel, but it’s worth exploring the area. Nearby Hoosier National Forest has miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails; Patoka Lake is a pretty place for anglers-in-training to cast a rod; and Morengo Cave is full of gems that you can mine for and take home.

For western-style fun, check out a working cattle ranch and go ziplining, ATV-riding, see a drive-thru lights show, and experience a Drive-Thru Safari Park to see more than 40 species of animals at Wilstem Ranch. Even if the weather isn’t cooperating, you can put on your swimsuit and dive into 40,000 square feet of slides, drops, lazy rivers, and wave pools at Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park.

Lake Lawn Resort - Delavan, WI

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This getaway spot has a history that is 130 years rich and is situated in tranquil woods 90 miles northwest of Chicago in Delavan, Wisconsin. Evidence of the land’s Native American beginnings can be seen in the property’s 40 remaining effigy mounds, the largest collection in southern Wisconsin. It was also once the longtime headquarters of the largest traveling circus of its day, Mabie Brothers US Olympic Circus.

A great time to plan a Lake Lawn Resort adventure is in the winter for all of their winter fun activities. Take the kids sledding down the Rudy Lange Sledding Hill or go explore a historic site or museum and learn something new.

No matter when you make your way north, there are plenty of activities to keep this vacation from heading south. With four restaurants (ranging from fine dining to classic bar and grill), an arcade to display your Dance Dance Revolution prowess, and a spa to massage any twerking injuries, you never need to leave. Go for a swim in the heated indoor pool, make a craft in the Kids Zone, or go cross-country skiing, ice skating, or snowshoeing.

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You could easily hole the family up in the resort and never leave, but The Dancing Horses Theatre located nearby is worth venturing away from the cozy fire. Trainers treat guests to a parade of equestrian showmanship, followed by the mischievous antics of an exotic bird show that will leave the kids in a fit of giggles.

Nearby Lake Geneva hosts the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition during the village’s annual Winterfest, Feb. 1-5. Festival-goers are treated to the intrigue of snow sculpting as well as music, helicopter rides, laser tag, s'mores, bonfires, and dog sled races.

Get ready to glide down snowy winter hills with your family at these great Seattle-area sledding and snow tubing spots

After some recent epic snowfall, we’re guessing Seattle families can count on the snow in the mountains all winter long, whether they come for a quick day visit or stay to rent a winter cabin. If you didn’t get enough snow play recently, there are more than a few sweet spots near Seattle where you can take your kids snow tubing and sledding. From groomed tubing runs and gently sloping sledding hills to snow play areas, here’s where Seattle families can continue getting in on one of winter’s best pastimes.

1. Summit Tubing Park at The Summit at Snoqualmie

The Summit Tubing Center is snow tubing at its picture-perfect best. It's where Seattle families can find over 20 individual lanes (during peak season) of groomed snow on gently sloped hills the length of a football field. Commercial-grade tubes and a conveyor belt tow make your ascent back to the top effortless. This year, your timed tubing ticket for this winter wonderland of fun is good for a one-hour, 45-minute session, which is plenty of time to frolic and tire the kids out. Tickets are being released slowly this year and will sell out fast, so get yours while you can.

Insider Tip: Tickets must be purchased online; no walk-ups are allowed. Everyone in your tubing group will need a signed Tubing Liability Release, which must be completed electronically during ticket checkout.

Dates: Open through mid-March
Cost: $45/adults, $18/children, 44" or shorter (must be purchased with adult ticket)

Summit Tubing Park (S.E. corner of the Summit Central main parking lot)
1001 Route 906
Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Online: summitatsnoqualmie.com

 

2. Hyak Sno-Park

When it comes to nearby snow parks, Hyak tops the list of where to sled near Seattle. With glorious, groomed sledding hills and a drive that kids can totally handle, it's easy to see why families spend hours playing here whenever they get the chance. The sledding hill is open for the 2022-23 season and will be groomed Wednesdays through Mondays, twice on weekends. Just remember your passes. You'll need a Sno-Park day permit, as well as your Discover Pass to get into the park, but you can stay as long as you want once you're there. Be sure to bring your own everything, too (food, water, sleds, tubes) because potties are the only amenities offered here.

Insider Tip: If Hyak is a bit too crowded, consider nearby alternatives off I-90 like Gold Creek Sno-Park, Crystal Springs, or even Katchess, if you're willing to branch out beyond sledding (building snow people can be just as much fun). Planning your snow play during the week is another great way to avoid the crowds.

Good to Know: No sled? No problem. You can rent one from the REI Snoqualmie Rentals Outpost on the way up to Hyak. Reserve your gear online in advance or simply walk-up to rent sleds or snowshoes.

Dates: Currently open
Cost: $25/one-day permit, $12/one-day Discovery Pass

Hyak Sno-Park
Exit 54 off I-90
Online: parks.state.wa.us

Related: Peak Season: Your Ultimate Guide to Seattle-Area Ski Schools

3. Lt. Michael Adams Tubing Park & Golf Course Sledding

The winter wonderland of Leavenworth does not disappoint when it comes to snow play or snow tubing in Seattle. Families can keep it formal with the tubing runs at the Lt. Michael Adams Tubing Park, locally known as the Leavenworth Tubing Hill, or crush that casual vibe sledding. With your tubing ticket, you'll get six sweet runs on the 100-foot-long tubing hill (tubes provided), complete with a tow-rope ride to the top. Remember to save time in line and bring your Tubing Waiver with you. Sledding at the golf course is pretty much BYO. so grab your sled (those with metal runners are not allowed) and spend the day gliding over the hills. The best part of either day? Grabbing hot cocoa and a snack to-go from the Ski Hill Lodge. This is one of the hottest tickets in town, and tickets have been selling out by 3:30 p.m. After 3 p.m. call 509-548-5477 to see about availability. Take note, unlike other tubing hills, this one is in-person ticket purchasing only.

Insider tip: The tubing hill is recommended for kids ages 8 and up, but those as young as 4 can still have fun. They just need to be able to ride safely and independently, and follow verbal and/or written instructions.

Dates & Times: Opens Dec. 10; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $30

10701 Ski Hill Dr.
Leavenworth, WA
Online: skileavenworth.com

 

4. Stevens Pass Nordic Center

Enjoy the beauty of Lower Mill Valley when you bring the kids to the groomed Seattle area sledding hill at the Stevens Pass Nordic Center (about 5 miles east of Stevens Pass). Bring your own sleds or tubes and plan to stay as long as your little snow bunnies will last before they need to warm up at the nearby Cascade Depot. There's also a snow play area here, so feel free to throw snowballs and build snowpeople when the kids need a change of pace. 

Dates & Times: Opens Dec. 23; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: Free

93001 N.E. Stevens Pass US Hwy. 2
Leavenworth, WA
Online: stevenspass.com

Related: 11 Wintry Destinations That Are Easy for Seattle Families 

5. Suncadia Resort, Sledding on the Hill

If you want to couple a winter weekend getaway with your snow play, Suncadia Resort is the place to do it. Not only can visitors enjoy the tubing hill, but they can also work on their sweet skating moves at the picturesque ice skating rink on the property (you'll need a reservation for both). They've also got a whole universe of adventure with everyone in mind, including axe throwing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobile tours that don't require a stay. The best part? This snow-scape play place is less than two hours from Seattle.

Dates: Through Jan. 2; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $10/one-hour tube rental

3600 Suncadia Trail
Cle Elum, WA
Online: destinationhotels.com

Related: Plan a Snow-Filled Weekend Escape at Suncadia

 

6. White Pass Tubing Hill

Looking to make your tubing day totally epic? Head out of town to White Pass. No need to make a reservation. This spot is first-come, first-served, and the hour-and-a-half sessions will give you plenty of time to wear the kids out snow tubing on the hill. While you can BYO tube, no sleds or toboggans (think: wood, plastic, or metal) are allowed. This is a weekend-only activity after Jan. 1, so make the most of it with an overnight stay and maybe a few runs on the slopes or a twilight snowshoe tour before you head back to Seattle.

Insider tip: Looking for an all-out snow festival? Think ahead and plan to attend the White Pass Winter Carnival on March 4, 2023. We're talking about a huge snow castle for kids to tube on, snow sculptures, live music, and fireworks that will light up the night.

Dates & Times: Daily, Dec. 17-Jan. 1, Fri.-Sun after Jan. 1; 1-2:30 p.m. & 2:30-4 p.m.
Cost: $15/session (9 & up); $10/session (8 & under); $5 for tube rental

White Pass Ski Area
48935 US Hwy. 12
Naches, WA
Online: skiwhitepass.com/tubing-hill

7. Hurricane Ridge Tube Run

Located just 17 miles from Port Angeles in Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge boasts a small skiing and snowboarding area plus a fun walk-up tubing run and views that are hard to beat. If you've got kids ages 8 and under, you'll want to BYO sled to the Small Children's Snow Play Area right next to the visitor's center to make the most of your snow day. Riders make their way down the hill on tubes provided by Hurricane Ridge at no extra charge. The runs operate on a first-come, first-served basis—if there's room, you can start your run. If the hill is at capacity, you will be given a time to return. Be sure to check weather and road conditions online or by phone at 360-565-3131 before you head up. And fill out the liability form before you arrive. The National Park charges an entrance fee of $30 per car, or you can purchase a yearly pass for $55. Have a fourth grader? Get into the national park for free

Insider Tip: The road generally opens to uphill traffic at 9 a.m. and closes to uphill traffic at 4 p.m. All cars must be down the hill by 5 p.m. 

Dates & Times: Sat.-Mon. through March; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: $20/10 runs

Hurricane Ridge Visitor's Center
3002 Mount Angeles Rd.
Port Angeles, WA
Online: hurricaneridge.com

 

8. Paradise Visitor's Center on Mt. Rainier

Editor's Note: This location is closed for the 2022-23 season

If you're looking for a snowy paradise for Seattle sledding, look no further than the snowplay area at the Paradise Visitor's Center on Mt. Rainier. The area opens based on snowfall, and families can usually expect to enjoy the mountain snow from mid-December through mid-March. This winter wonderland is a DIY-ers delight as it's ok to bring your own tubes and sleds (only soft/flexible sleds and saucers are allowed; no hard runner sleds or true toboggans) for hours of unlimited play. Our favorite part? All fourth graders plus their families can get their free park pass by going to the Every Kid Outdoors website and following the instructions. If you don't have a fourth grader, you'll need a park pass to visit.

Insider tip: All cars are required to carry chains in winter while in the park. Be sure to check the status of road and avalanche conditions before leaving home.

Mount Rainier National Park
Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise
Paradise Rd. E.
Paradise, WA
Online: nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit

If it snows in Seattle…There’s nothing quite like a full day of snow-bound play to make all the comforts of home and family so delightful. If we get snow in the city, be sure to try these local golf courses available for snow play: Jackson ParkJefferson ParkInterbay, and West Seattle.

The Historic town of Bethlehem, PA is the place to be this holiday season with a live Advent calendar, free Santa photos, and all the Christkindl market shopping you can handle

With Halloween in the rearview mirror and Mariah Carrey blasting from every radio station, now is the time when we snuggle up and fully immerse ourselves in the holiday spirit. The historic town of Bethlehem, PA (also known as “The Christmas City”) is the place to be during the holiday season, and its history as the holiday hot spot goes way back to 1747 as the first town in the U.S. to have a Christmas tree.

Families who visit during the month of December will find the only live Advent calendar in the U.S. The calendar will kick off its 15th year on December 1, and this unique calendar is a free, family-friendly event that takes place every night at 5:30 p.m. until December 23.

Town of Bethlehem

During this theatrical event, the town crier will ring a bell up and down Main Street to call visitors. A child from the crowd will be invited to come and knock three times at a local business where a surprise will be revealed.

Nancy Swolensky

Visitors to Bethlehem during the months of November and December will find loads of other holiday activities like horse-drawn carriage rides, the annual tree lighting ceremony, and free pictures with Santa on Saturdays.

David Happel

Shop the Christkindl Market for all your holiday wares from wreaths to ornaments to handmade toys for the kids. Beginning November 10, the market will be open Thursdays-Sundays through December 24. Then travel down to the Colonial Industrial Quarter where you will find Christmas Cabanas and additional festive activities.

Hotel Bethlehem

If you choose to stay for a few days of festivities (who could blame you?), the Historic Hotel Bethlehem is where you’ll want to lay your head. Extravagantly decorated for the holidays, the hotel has suites that will sleep your whole family and even a friendly ghost or two.

Bookmark our list of must-see holiday events and activities in San Diego for a memory-filled holiday season

San Diego sure know how to make the holidays come alive in paradise. From seeing traditional favorites like How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the iconic Old Globe Theatre to wandering through clever lit up holiday displays whether through neighborhoods or the botanical garden, there’s something fun for everyone no matter what kind of holiday celebration you may be into. So once you’ve found your Christmas tree, stocked up on gifts at the best toy stores in San Diego, and declared a winner of the best hot chocolate in town, head to these fun, only-in-San Diego holiday activities for a most memorable holiday season.

Must-See Holiday Shows in San Diego

Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at The Old Globe

Select Dates Nov. 9-Dec. 31: Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is a wonderful, whimsical musical based upon the classic Dr. Seuss book. Back for another incredible year, the family favorite features the songs “Santa for a Day,” “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” and “Welcome, Christmas (Fah Who Doraze),” the delightful carol from the popular animated version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Celebrate the holidays as the Old Globe Theatre is once again transformed into the snow-covered Who-ville, right down to the last can of Who-hash.

Ebenezer Scrooge's BIG San Diego Christmas Show 

Select Dates Nov. 18-Dec. 24: This is a funny, and highly theatrical reimagining of Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. You'll meet the ghosts of Christmases Past, Present, and Future, but with a comedic locals San Diego twist.

1363 Old Globe Way
San Diego
Online: theoldglobe.org

The Rady Shell

Noel Noel at The Rady Shell

Dec. 9-11: Experience an all-new San Diego holiday tradition by watching the 2nd annual Noel Noel show at the beautiful Rady Shell. This new one-of-a-kind outdoor venue sits along the bay front and projects gorgeous images onto the "shell" throughout the performance. You'll be able to follow along with the storyline as it's told through favorite holiday tunes.

222 Marina Park Way
San Diego
Online: theshell.org

A Christmas Carol  at the Cygnet Theatre

Select Dates Nov. 22-Dec. 24: The holiday classic A Christmas Carol will transport you into the Victorian era for a tale of hope and redemption at Christmas time. This production features original music, creative stagecraft and live sound effects for a unique storytelling experience that will delight the whole family.

Good to Know: Children under five years old are not permitted in the theater during performances.

4040 Twiggs St.
San Diego
Online: cygnettheatre.com

Must-Go Holiday Events in San Diego

Christmas Celebration at SeaWorld San Diego

Nov. 14-Jan. 8: Christmas Celebration is filled with fun holiday-themed animal and entertainment shows, special food and drink items, Santa photos, acres of beautiful decorations and a lighted musical tunnel that you can dance and sing your way through.

Good to Know: You can reserve your Santa photo spot online.

500 Sea World Dr.
San Diego
Online: seaworld.com/san-diego

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo

Dec. 9-Jan. 1: Stroll around the Zoo & Safari Park at night under the sights & sounds of holiday cheer. Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo will light up your night with the animals as you stroll around the zoo listening to live music and carolers. Catch a Christmas story time, find the holiday trampoline jumpers, traipse through the Northern Frontier Holiday Forest and be mystified at the Aurora light spectacular show.

Wild Holidays at Safari Park

Select Dates Nov. 25-Jan. 1: Wild Holidays at the Safari Park will let you travel to far away places that glow and twinkle with holiday tunes, seasonal food and decor. Catch a holiday story time, walk through the bridge of lights and the lantern walk and wave to the firefly stilt walkers.

Good to Know: All of the holiday activities start after 3:30pm. Both are included in admission and memberships.

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd.
Escondido
Online: sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org

Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden

best holiday events san diego lightscape
San Diego Botanical Garden

Select Dates Nov. 18-Jan. 1: Wander through the gardens after dark in this enchanting illuminated 1-mile trail. You’ll see over one million twinkling lights, eye-catching glowing art installations, colors and sounds that have been custom designed for this garden. Kids will enjoy roasting marshmallows over fire and sipping hot chocolate.

Good to Know: Advanced timed tickets are required. Buy your guaranteed parking spot online.

300 Quail Gardens Dr.
Encinitas
Online: sdbg.org 

December Nights at Balboa Park

Dec. 2 & 3: The City of San Diego's December Nights is back this year in Balboa Park. This free, family friendly event brings San Diegans together to enjoy the lights, the sounds, the attractions and of course, the amazing food.

Balboa Park
San Diego
Online: tinybeans.com

Snow-N-Glow at the Del Mar Fairgrounds

best holiday events san diego
Snow-N-Glow

 

Dec. 8-Jan. 1: Snow-N-Glow is back this year for snow-tubing down the giant slides with real snow! Wander around the one million twinkling lights, seasonal eats & drinks, roast s’mores over community fire pits, and even book a private “igloo” with fire pit and have fresh snow delivered to you for a private snow play experience.

2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd.
Del Mar
Online: snownglow.com

best holiday events in San Diego
Bonnie Taylor

The Annual Holiday Market Trail at Petco Park

Select Dates Dec. 1-23: The Annual Holiday Market Trail at Petco Park is back and this year the popular market will be bigger and better with even more food, beverage and artisan vendors. The Holiday Market in Gallagher Square is a fun night for the whole family and will feature local and European artisan shops, magical lighting displays, seasonal food and beverage, a carousel, Santa and other holiday characters!

Good to Know: Advanced tickets are required. Park at the Padres Parkade at 10th Ave. + J St.

840 K St.
San Diego
Online: petcoparkinsider.com

San Diego Boat Parades

Visit Oceanside

Truly a San Diego local’s holiday event is to catch one of the (free!) boat parades floating by with each vessel all decked out in lights and holiday decor. Dress warmly, BYO blankets and chairs to sit on, grab some take-out and bring your hot chocolate for a fun night. Note: there may not be bathrooms nearby where you’re sitting so plan ahead. PS: Check their websites for the routes, best places to park and more logistical intel.

Mission Bay Parade of Lights: Dec. 10 at 5:30 p.m.
Online: discovermissionbay.org

Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights: Dec. 10 at 7 p.m.
Online: visitoceanside.org

Related: Discover Why Our Editors Love Hanging Out in Oceanside

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: Dec. 11 & 18 at 5:30 p.m.
Online: sdparadeoflights.org

San Diego's Best Neighborhood Holiday Lights

best neighborhoods for christmas lights in San Diego
Bonnie Taylor

Throughout Dec.: Make some hot cocoa, turn on the holiday tunes, buckle up, and go for a drive to enjoy dazzling Christmas light displays around various neighborhoods. There are lots of well-known neighborhoods that really go all out with their holiday decorating. These neighborhoods are always worth the drive.

Christmas on Knob Hill
Knob Hill Rd.
San Marcos

Holiday Magic
Fairway Village & Stoney Gate Pl.
Carmel Mountain Ranch

Christmas Card Lane
Oviedo St.
Rancho Penasquitos

Christmas Park
Lana Dr. & Mt Abernathy Ave.
Clairemont

Starlight Circle
Magnolia Ave. & Tomel Ct.
Santee

Christmas Circle
First Ave. & H St.
Chula Vista

 

 

Pack up the kids and set out on the open road because there’s no better time to visit one of these DMV destinations than right now

If fall foliage, u-pick farms, and holiday-themed amusement parks are topping your fall bucket list, make a weekend of it by sojourning at one of these near-by getaways for fall activities and autumn adventures. Take in the changing colors of the leaves as you head out of town for one of these quick, easy trips that will check off loads of must-do autumn events in a single weekend. From peeping leaves aboard a Strasburg train to enjoying a crisp, fall hike in the Appalachian Mountains to holiday thrills at Hersheypark, we’ve found the best places to get the most out of a fall weekend near Washington, DC.

The Best DC Road Trip for Leap Peeping | Shenandoah Valley, VA

What to See
For possibly the best leaf peeping on the East Coast head to the must-visit jewel of the valley Shenandoah National Park which stretches 105 miles from Front Royal to Waynesboro-Charlottesville, straddling the Blue Ridge mountains.Start your adventure at the Visitor Center for a map of the best kid-friendly hikes in the park.

When you've explored all there is to see above ground, duck underground to to ooh and ahh over stalagmites and stalactites. Caverns grow like weeds in the valley, but Luray Caverns is our top pick because you get more bang for your buck. You pay just one admission ($32 for adults, $16 for kids 6-12, and $29 for seniors) and get to enjoy three museums in addition to the main attraction. After you tour the caverns, head over to see coaches dating back to 1725 in the Car & Carriage Museum, compare the toys of yesteryear to today's favorites at Toy town Junction and then take a fall stroll through Shenandoah Heritage Village for a quick lesson on 19th century farm communities.

Where to Eat
Route 11 Potato Chips is famous for their unique flavors (Dill Pickle or Chesapeake Crab anyone?) and quality ingredients like unrefined sea salt and organic sweet potatoes from Virginia’s very own Quail Cove Farm. Fans can stop by the factory to see what really goes into making small-batch potato chips. The plant is open to the public Mon–Sat, 9:00 am-5:00 pm, but call in advance to make sure they’re cooking on your visit day. And did we mention the free samples?

Where to Stay
The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club manages cabins throughout the DMV, including a few inside Shenandoah National Park. Ranging from primitive (no electricity or running water) to modern, the cabins are a delightful and budget friendly way to experience the park.

Distance: 2 hours (100 miles)
Online: shenandoahvalley.org

Related: DC’s Best Places to See Fall Foliage 

The Best DC Road Trip for Holiday Fun | Hershey, PA

What to See
More than “just” chocolate, the city of Hershey, PA also draws visitors for its famed amusement park with more than 70 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, live entertainment, games, food, shops and even a simulated tropical rainforest where visitors learn how cocoa beans grow and are harvested. Ticket purchases include admission to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo that includes more than 200 animals from five regions of North America. Every weekend (through Oct. 30), Hersheypark is transformed into a spooktacular Halloween adventure featuring flashlight tours of the zoo, trick-or-treating through Treatville and a glow-in-the-dark dance party. Get merry at Christmas Candylane  from Nov. 11-Jan. 1 when the park glows with over 5 million lights.                                

Where to Eat
Take a break from park food and make a reservation at The Chocolatier, a family-style restaurant that offers hints of Hershey in lots of its dishes. You’ll find everything from chocolate drizzled potato chips to flatbreads with Hershey’s chocolate balsamic glaze and epic entrees like a Heath Bar crusted salmon and a burger topped with a Reece’s cup!

Where to Stay
Get a sugar rush at Hershey Lodge where indoor play includes a 30,000 square foot pool at the sweetest place on earth. From a Twizzlers Twists water slide to a Reese’s Water Walk that features, you guessed it, oversized peanut butter cups, the hotel pool at Hershey Lodge checks off every candy lover’s list. 

Distance: 2 hours, 15 minutes (130 miles)
Online: hersheypark.com

Related: DC’s Local Theme Parks for Every Kind of Thrill Seeker

The Best DC Road Trip for Rail Enthusiasts | Strasburg, MD

What to See
Arriving in Amish country invites your family to step back to a more peaceful time. Take a leisurely ride on the Strasburg Rail Road. Across the street from the Strasburg station is The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania ($10 adults, $9 seniors and $8 for kids 3-11) where you can explore one of the largest collections fo locomotives in the world (over 100 trains are on display). You can also tour the cars virtually. For serious train collectors, the Toy Train Library at  The National Toy Train Museum is a must-stop.

What to Eat
Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant has been serving really good food since 1929. They offer multiple dining options and tons of delicious dishes. Many of their ingredients come from local farms. Check their website for family specials and coupons.

Where to Stay
What would a train-themed weekend be without a stay in a real caboose! The Red Caboose Motel & Restaurant is home to 38 red cabooses, a mail car and a baggage car. Family caboose accommodations include bunk beds and can sleep up to 6 in a train car.

Distance: 2 hours, 15 minutes (125 miles)
Online: discoverlancaster.com

Related: The Best Santa Train Rides for Washington, DC Kids

The Best Fall Road Trip Near DC for Hiking

What to See
This quaint town in West Virginia has beautiful paths that wind through the National Park. Your family can stand where Thomas Jefferson  stood when he said it was a view worth crossing the Atlantic Ocean for. Be sure to stop by the Visitors Center so your kiddos can pick up the Jr. Ranger packet. They’ll get the most adorable badge from a park ranger. Don’t forget to hop on the shuttle on your way into Lower Town. It is stroller-friendly and the only stop with easy parking.

Where to Eat
Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee is the perfect place to pop in for quick picnic noshes. You'll find hearty sandwiches that will help fuel your hike and, for the picky eaters, PBJ, pastries and cookies.

Where to Stay
Connect with nature around the area and get a little more of the great outdoors by staying in one of Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA’s cabins. There is room for the whole family and your sweet fur baby too. Your kiddos will love bouncing on the jumping pillow, splashing in the pool and the Saturday morning all-you-can-eat pancakes at the campground.

Distance: 1 hour, 15 minutes (67 miles)
Online: nps.gov

Related: 16 Easy Hiking Trails for DC Kids

The Best Fall Road Trip Near DC for Historic Tours  | Williamsburg, VA

What to See
History never gets old in this almost 400-year-old town. Help your child “get into character” by renting an adorable period costume. The stories will come alive and make the whole experience more real. Hop on a horse-drawn carriage for a truly authentic way to see the city. Drive 30 minutes up the road to the Powhatan Indian Village to learn about Pocahontas and her way of life.

Where to Eat
Stop by Dubois Grocer to satisfy that afternoon sweet tooth. The friendly store attendant will be more than happy to send you home with some rock candy. At Food for Thought, you’ll dine surrounded by thought-provoking quotes. Cute discussion cards are left on the table to help with dinner conversation. Pick an eclectic dish from the gluten-free or senior’s menu. The kid’s menu is little foodie heaven with salmon, ribs and pot roast, to name a few.

Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Williamsburg Resort features 2 and 3-bedroom villas with fully-equipped kitchens and in-unit laundry. A home away from home with everything your family needs to kick back and relax. Pools, Putt Putt, playgrounds and tons of family-style amenities are fun for the whole gang.

Distance: 2 hours, 45 minutes (153 miles)
Online: visitwilliamsburg.com

Related: 12 Day Trips That Will Make Your Kids Smarter

The Best Fall Road Trips Near DC for Farm-Fresh Fun | Franklin, VA

What to See
Visit Goose Hill Farm for a classic pumpkin patch experience and get lost in their corn maze. Beyond pumpkins, Southampton County is known for its peanut farms, peanut shops and peanut museums. Stop by Hope & Harmony Farms to grab a few gourmet bags.

What to Eat
Fred’s Restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Franklin. It has been a local tradition since 1945. Saturday mornings draw a crowd for the all-you-can-eat buffet and fish fry. Grab a seat on their “secret garden” patio complete with wrought iron fence and brick fireplace.

Where to Stay
Check in to PandA Homestead for an authentic farm stay experience. Your kiddos can help with farm chores by hand feeding their friendly goats, cuddling baby chicks and trying out their best turkey calls. You’ll get to relax in the 2-bedroom guest cottage. Wake up to homemade strawberry jam and fresh eggs in the fridge.

Distance: 3 hours, 15 minutes (185 miles)
Online: visitfranklinsouthamptonva.com

Related: 27 Farm Stays Every Family Should Experience

The Best Fall Road Trip New DC for One-Stop Fun | Hot Springs, VA

What to See
Omni Homestead resort activities include horseback riding, fly fishing, falconry lessons, golf, hiking, skiing in the winter and more. And if you want to explore all the resort has to offer sans kids, you can do that, too!  Adventure Kids programs offer hours of activities ranging from crafts to hikes for kids ages 5-12 (geared mostly towards 5-10, but 11 & 12 year olds are welcome) so that your kids can have fun while you sneak in a date night dinner or a trip to the spa.

You can easily spend your entire time on property and never run out of fun, but if you want to explore the area, take a quick drive to a waterfall you can see from the road! Set your map to Falling Spring Falls which is located off Route 220 and about 15 minutes from the resort. There is a parking lot before the falls on your right.

Where to Eat
There are a number of options on property, from fine dining to tap room saloons, but our favorite for family-friendly bites is Woody's. You'll find hand-crafted pizzas, soups and sandwiches at this casual eatery.

Where to Stay
It’s hard to believe you are still in Virginia when a turn off Highway 81 leads to incredible elevation, vistas and the grand Homestead Resort. Twenty-three US presidents have visited this 2,000 acre property and you’ll feel the Presidential treatment your entire stay! The indoor pool is still heated by the hot spring water naturally flowing beneath the resort (so the temperature of the water does fluctuate). Consult the Resort Guide, printed weekly and provided at check-in, for restaurant hours and available experiences.

Distance: 4 hours (200 miles)
Online: omnihotels.com

Related: 6 Family-Friendly Resorts for Last Minute Getaways

—additional reporting by Angelica Kajiwara

While all of us would love to travel the world and fill up our passports, the hard reality is that most of us find ourselves planning a trip to Disney or LEGOLAND instead (especially with the way flight prices are going). However, we’ve found a loophole. It is possible to get a “feel” for Germany, Denmark, England and more without actually leaving the United States. We’ve uncovered some of the best American cities that feel international (think Solvang, California and more), and some of them just might be near you. Put down the Rosetta Stone and let’s go; they’re just a road trip away!

Find the Netherlands in Pella, Iowa

Founded in 1847 by Dutch immigrants, Pella is known by many as “America’s Dutch Treasure.”

What to do: The Vermeer Mill serves as the town’s crown jewel. It is the tallest working mill in the U.S. that offers daily guided tours. It is surrounded by the historical village, flower gardens and canal with a drawbridge. Be sure to visit the Klokkenspel during one of its daily presentations when eight, four-foot tall mechanical figures come to play to the music of 147 bell carillon. Pella is also home to the Frisian Farms Cheese House which makes artisan Gouda. 

Where to eat: Your best choices for authentic Dutch cuisine include the Jaarsma Bakery (which specializes in made-from-scratch Dutch pastries) and Monarchs Restaurant & Lounge (which offers Dutch Spiced Beef served with hutspot and rode kool—aka mashed potatoes and red cabbage). 

Learn more about Pella

Find Bavaria in Leavenworth, Washington

The Cascades mountain range makes the perfect backdrop for the Bavarian town of Leavenworth where the hills are alive with the sound of music or so it seems.

What to do: Festivals are planned all year long including Maifest during Mother’s Day weekend, the International Accordion Celebration in June, three weekends of Oktoberfest and three weekends of the Christmas Lighting Festival. Very few chain businesses are allowed in town, and the ones that are here must fit in with the German theme. In town, you’ll find numerous themed shops with authentic music playing and many art shows in the park during the summer months. For families with older kids, Leavenworth is a great place to try white water rafting during the summer or various snow activities during the winter.

Where to eat: Authentic restaurants include Andreas Keller (specializing in rotisserie-broiled chicken and schweinshax’n, sausages and sauerkraut), Gustav’s Beer Garden and Grill (serving burgers and German sausages) and Baren Haus (with German entrees and some the best burgers and pizza in town).

Learn more about Leavenworth

Find Venice, Italy in Venice, California

While Venice may not be the first place in mind while visiting Los Angeles, it is certainly worth a stop. In 1905, developer Abbot Kinney created man-made canals in hopes or recreating the look and feel of Venice, Italy.

What to do: Today, many of the original older houses along the canals have been replaced by larger modern houses, so the “look” isn’t the same, but the “feel” is. It’s still a fun place to visit and a nice reprieve from all of the hustle and bustle of the nearby big city. While in Venice, other sites worth visiting include the famous Venice Boardwalk where there are lots of little shops, dining spots and street performers hoping to make it big. Then, of course, there’s Venice beach where the water is a favorite for surfers and the sand for musclemen.

Where to eat: You don’t have to go far to get the whole Italy experience as the Venice Canal Historic District is home to four Italian restaurants (Casa Ado, The Tasting Kitchen, Barrique and Cetanni) all located less than a mile away. 

Learn more about Venice

https://www.instagram.com/p/CO5lUHeNgOD/?hidecaption=true

Find Switzerland in New Glarus, Wisconsin

Known as “America’s Little Switzerland,” New Glarus can be found in the heart of Green County in southern Wisconsin.

What to do: The town has been considered a magnet for Swiss settlers for over 150 years. The town’s attractions include the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum (housed in a 1937 authentic copy of a Swiss Bernese mountain chalet), the Swiss Center of North America (which collects and showcases all that is Swiss in North America), the Swiss Historical Village (14 buildings that focus on the town’s history) and the amusing New Glarus “Cows On Parade" (14 fiberglass and decorated cows are on display throughout the town).

Where to stay and eat: While in town, stay at the authentic Chalet Landhaus which combines old Swiss charm and modern conveniences. For Swiss cuisine and great steaks, dine at Glarner Stube. And, if you're a beer geek, a stop at New Glarus Brewing is a must. 

Learn more about New Glarus

Find England in Boston, Massachusetts

While Boston is rich in American history, it is worth noting that most of the city’s oldest buildings have a distinctly British feel to them. In some parts of the city, it feels as though you're walking the streets of England.

What to do: To get the full experience, take your family on the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail Tour. Tours are led by the Freedom Trail Players who'll take you to various historic places that tell the story of the American Revolution—including Paul Revere’s house.

Where to eat: Continue the history lesson by dining at such places as the Green Dragon Tavern (which first opened in 1654 and was a hangout for Revere), the Union Oyster House (which has been around since 1826 and home of the first toothpick) and the Warre Tavern (which opened in 1780 and is rumored to have been a favorite of Revere’s as well).

Find out more about Boston

Find Spain in St. Augustine, Florida

Many families only think of Florida as the home to Disney World, but St. Augustine proves that there is much more to see in this state.

What to do: St. Augustine has the distinction of being our country’s oldest city. The historic district is where you’ll find city’s strongest Spanish influence with its cobblestone streets, corner cafes and bed and breakfast inns. Some of the historic sights worth visiting include Fort Mose State Park, Fort Matanzas, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park and Flagler College. On the spooky side, your family might enjoy the Lightner Museum, with its weird collections of shrunken heads and mummies or the Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum which is housed in the Castle Warden built in 1887.

Where to eat: Nestled under a famous cedar tree for over 50 years, a stop at the Spanish Bakery & Cafe for empanadas and picadillo, prepared in a traditional stone hearth oven, is a must. 

Learn more about St. Augustine

Find Denmark in Solvang, Califonia

Damian Gadal

Solvang is home to various Danish icons such as the Little Mermaid Fountain, the Round Tower, historic churches and five windmills.

What to do: Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to learn more about the author who penned The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling and others. The town features over 150 one-of-a-kind boutique shops; many with European imports. Two of Solvang’s biggest festivals include Danish Days in September (which features three parades, Danish folk dancing and a Viking encampment) and Julefest all month long in December.

Where to eat: No trip would be complete without stopping at one of the five authentic Danish bakeries or visit all five, we won’t judge. For awesome lunch, check out the Aebleskiver Café (serving Danish Aebleskiver and sausage).

Learn more about Solvang

Find France in Charleston, South Carolina

There’s no denying the strong French influence that covers Charleston with its numerous mansions and historic building to explore.

What to do: The strongest influence can be found in the French Quarter District due to its large number of French merchants. Here you’ll find the Pink House Tavern that was built in 1712, the beautiful Dock Street Theatre and French Huguenot Church. After some exploring, wander toward the Joe Riley Waterfront Park where the kids can cool off in the giant pineapple fountain and splash pad. For souvenir shopping, check out the Charleston City Market.

Where to eat: As you can imagine, there are a lot of French restaurants here to try out including Gaulart and Maliclet Café Restaurant, Breizh Pan Crepes and 39 Rue de Jean.

Learn more about Charleston

Find China and Japan in Seattle, Washington

Seattle’s Chinatown-International District also features Japantown and Little Saigon. It is only a mile away from downtown and features an eclectic mix of old and new world values.

What to do: The area is the center of many festivals held throughout the year including Lunar New Year Festival in February, Dragon Fest in July and C-ID Night Market held in September which features food, arts and crafts, live entertainment and a beer garden. The Wing Luke Asian Museum is a must-see, as well as the 86-year-old 35,000-square-foot Uwajimaya Asian grocery and gift store.

Where to eat: As you can imagine, authentic restaurants are in an abundance and are too many to list here. Just take our word for it!

Learn more about Seattle's International District

Find Mexico in San Juan Bautista, California

San Juan Bautista is known as the “City of History” that ranges from organic farming to a bustling shopping center of town with a variety of shops and boutiques.

What to do: The largest of all California missions, Old Mission San Juan Bautista is located here, and the only Spanish Plaza left in the state can be found at the State Historic Park. Authentic Mexican food is available on every corner, the Old Adobe Antiques shop and the Plaza Market Shops will transport you to Mexico and the El Teatro Campesino features professional Latino theater productions for all ages. And if you need a little excitement, this city likes to party, offering 15 different festivals every year.

Learn more about San Juan Bautista

Find Japan in San Francisco

Nella DuBon-Koch

While visiting all the fun places in busy San Francisco, take some time to chill at the Japanese Tea Garden.

What to do: It is the oldest public garden of its kind in the United States and probably the grandest. Sure, the idea of getting kids excited to see a bunch of plants might sound like a chore, but they’ll be amazed when you arrive. Located in the Golden Gate Park, the garden is five acres of beautiful native Japanese plants and cherry blossom trees. Among the treasures, you’ll find here is an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone pathways, koi ponds and a zen garden. Stop by the Tea House for fortune cookies and other treats and find perfect souvenirs at the gift shop.

Learn more about San Francisco's Japanese Tea Garden

Find Greece in Tarpon Springs, Florida

Less than a half hour away from Clearwater, Florida you’ll find Tarpon Springs which was founded in the early 1900’s by Greek sponge divers.

What to do: Today, the area offers numerous boat tours with some that allow kids to try on antique scuba diving gear. The Dodecanese Boulevard aka the “Sponge Docks” lines the riverfront of the town with gift shops, antiques and authentic Greek restaurants which include Mama’s Greek Cuisine, Hellas and Mykonos. A stop by the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral is in order too. Other non-Greek things to see in town include the Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Resource Center, which features many interactive exhibits and a nature store and the numerous beaches.

Learn more about Tarpon Springs

Find Germany in Helen, Georgia

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city of Helen received a German makeover in 1968. Today it boasts of over 200 specialty shops and import shops with many of them featuring craftsman busy at work.

What to do: During the summer, float down the Chattahoochee River, pan for gold and gems or take in a horse-drawn carriage ride. Helen’s annual festivals include the an annual balloon race in early summer, Oktoberfest in September and October and Alpenlights Christmas celebration in December, but year round there are a ton of family activities for kids of all ages. Check out their calendar here

Where to eat: One of the best German-style restaurants in town is the Troll Tavern serving up Bratwurst sausages on hoagie rolls, Grilled Reuben sandwiches and Wienerschnitzel Platter (which is a breaded and fried veal cutlet).

Learn more about Helen

 

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Looking for the perfect weekend (or longer) getaway from Atlanta that will appeal to all of your kids? Nashville Opryland Hotel Resort and SoundWaves is as fun for you as it is for them—and we promise it’s unlike any place you’ve ever seen. The only problem with it being on your destination radar is that every other trip you take will pale in comparison. Keep reading to find out why it makes the perfect easy getaway from Atlanta, below.

Room Packages & Options

© 2022 Gaylord Opryland

Situated in the heart of Nashville, the rooms of the Gaylord Opryland Resort are built around 9 acres of airy, indoor garden atriums. You'll forget about the winter blues—and hide from the sweltering summer—when you enter the doors and walk through paths teeming with tropical plants, bordered by waterfalls and illuminated by the natural light from the glassed-in ceiling. 

Good to Know: You can request a room that overlooks one of the gardens, and some even have patios that you can walk out onto from your room. 

Room Packages are offered seasonally. The Chill & Thrill Winterfest Package Includes one night room accommodations, SoundWaves indoor waterpark wristbands, ice skating passes and ice tubing passes through Feb. 28. The Spring It On Package includes a spring-inspired scavenger hunt, cookie decorating, a visit with the Easter Bunny on select dates and more, from March 5-May 8. 

Seasonal Programming

© 2022 Gaylord Opryland

For a few more weeks, you can ice skate, drive light-up, spinning ice bumper cars, tube down an ice mountain, and enjoy live ice skating shows, carriage rides, and indoor riverboat cruises at Gaylord Opryland Resort. While you're there, you can purchase tickets to SoundWaves and enjoy all of the water park's indoor features, in a clean, warm, naturally-lit environment.

Beginning March 5, celebrate spring—whether on Spring Break to Nashville or during a quick weekend getaway—with an interactive painting and storytelling adventure, private horse-drawn carriage rides, a scavenger hunt throughout the gardens of the resort, an oversized egg hunt from a flatboat river cruise ride, plus crafts, cookie decorating choreographed indoor water fountain show. SoundWaves indoor features will be open all spring, and seasonal outdoor water attractions will typically be open Memorial Day through Labor Day. View calendar for the specific schedule to plan your visit. 

Dining

© 2022 Gaylord Opryland

There is so much to do, see, eat and hear in Nashville that you might be tempted to leave the Gaylord Opryland Resort during your visit. Located in the heart of Nashville, an excursion is easy. However, with a dozen sit-down restaurants, 6 grab-and-go concepts, and two bars (a wine bar and a craft tavern that also offer snacks in addition to libation), you never really need to leave the resort if you don't want to. 

You'll find Italian, Mexican, upscale steakhouse, pizza, burgers, and more, including delicious Southern food at the only Jack Daniel's restaurant in the world. Sample hand-selected “Tennessee Sippin’ Whiskey” from the distillery and give your barbecue sandwich a shot of authenticity by ordering the slaw on top. 

Don't Miss: Cascades American Cafe offers well prepared fare that won't cause any dining drama with your kids (plenty of options like hamburgers and chicken tenders to choose from), and its dramatic setting in the garden atrium—with two multi-story waterfalls and surrounded by a coy-filled lagoon—means you'll enjoy a leisurely dining experience while the kids take it all in. 

Entertainment

© 2022 Gaylord Opryland

In addition to the miles of meandering hothouse paths throughout the resort's atriums, you'll find live music, a water-light show, animal encounters with naturalists, flat-bottom riverboat cruises and more—all indoors—during your stay. And if nothing else piques your interest, the incredible multi-story waterfalls are worth a visit, alone. 

While You're in Nashville: Located on the banks of the Cumberland River, the hotel is near legendary Nashville attractions including the Grand Ole Opry®, Ryman Auditorium®, Wildhorse Saloon®, and the General Jackson® Showboat. And, as a hotel guest, you can purchase tickets to spend the day at the hotel's exciting indoor water park, SoundWaves. 

SoundWaves Indoor & Outdoor Water Park

© 2022 Gaylord Opryland

SoundWaves is a 4 acre, 3-level upscale indoor/outdoor water attraction with dedicated recreation zones for adults, young children and families. Connected to the Gaylord Opryland Resort, getting there is as simple as walking through a corridor. Without a doubt, it's the cleanest, brightest and prettiest indoor water space we've ever seen, and everything from sleek finishes to the living walls and plant best makes being at SoundWaves a treat. And get this—the unique roof allows guests to sunbathe indoors, and the temperature stays a balmy 84 degrees indoors year-round. 

The indoor attractions, which features 5 indoor slides along with a designated toddler section, adult section, surfing feature, lazy river and more, are open year round. Outdoor attractions will open in 2022 on select dates from mid-May through Labor Day.  View the calendar here to plan your day. Keep in mind that while check-in time at Gaylord Opryland is 4 p.m., guests with the SoundWaves package may access the water attraction from the time it opens on the day of check-in until noon of the day of check-out.

Really Important Info: Guaranteed admission is available only with the exclusive SoundWaves Water Experience overnight package, which guarantees the capacity at SoundWaves will be manageable (which is exactly what you want when you're toting a group of multi-aged kids to a water park).

Good Idea: Pack a smaller bag with bathing suits and a change of clothes, and store the rest of your luggage with Bell Services so you can enjoy SoundWaves as soon as you arrive in Nashville.

2800 Opryland Dr.
Nashville, Tn 37214
615-889-1000
Online: marriott.com and soundwavesgo.com

Images © 2022 Gaylord Opryland

This trip was paid for by Gaylord Opryland Resort and all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.

—Shelley Massey

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If you’ve lived in LA for awhile, you probably feel like you’ve been there, done that. That’s why we did a little recon and sussed out some epic, under-the-radar vacation gems that have been hiding right under our noses. From camping near free-roaming bison to an in-town hotel that has dive-in movies and feels a million miles away, check out the list below and get ready to plan a family staycation, weekend getaway or spring break vacation you’ve never experienced before—all easily reachable within a few hours of LA.

This article is sponsored by Little Tikes®, which offers a variety of toys that’ll turn your backyard into a springtime playground. From water and outdoor kids’ toys to playhouses, ride-on cars and so much more, children two to six years old will be entertained for hours. To learn more about Little Tikes®’ products, visit littletikes.com.

Hidden Staycation Gem in LA: The Garland

hidden gems to vacation near LA
The Garland

This whimsical, retro hotel, located in North Hollywood feels like it was plucked right out of Palm Springs and dropped on Vineland Ave. but rather than fight traffic on the 10, most Angelenos can get to this secret gem in less than 30 minutes. 

Family Perks: Universal Studios and CityWalk is just a free (yes, FREE!) trolley ride away, courtyard games the whole family can play are available from the front desk, and one of our favorite alfresco restaurants, The Front Yard, is on-site. But really, for the kids at least, it's all about the pool and the jacuzzi right? Spend the day watching the kids go from pool to jacuzzi and back again. And an added bonus? The pool is also home to dive-in movies, where kids of all ages can enjoy a classic flick starting at sundown daily in the summer, and on weekends year-round.

4222 Vineland Ave.
North Hollywood
Online: thegarland.com

 

Hidden Vacation Gems near LA: Cuyama Buckhorn

where to vacation with kids near LA
Cuyama Buckhorn via Yelp

Just two hours from DTLA, Cuyama Buckhorn is a roadside resort that is big on style (mid-century meets western cowboy vibes) and locally-sourced goods from the Valley of Hidden Enchantment. A fun weekend trip here requires little more effort than lounging by the pool and dining on-site—it's the kind of all-in-one spot that is part road-trip, part destination yet delivers vacation vibes in spades.

Family Perks: If you must peel yourselves away from the pool, there's a ton to see and do with kids nearby Cuyama. Visit Carrizo Plain National Monument to explore the salt flats and grasslands, see the San Andreas Fault, cave paintings, and during the spring, some of California's best wildflowers. For an animal encounters, visit Cuyama Oaks Ranch, to pet pigs, goats and fowl galore (open Thurs.-Mon.) or Hidden Creek Ranch—where you can book an equine experience that includes learning about horses, grooming and riding them. Don't forget to carve out a little extra time and make a special stop for some pie from The Place—recent options include: Lemon Meringue, Pecan, Raspberry Rhubarb and Dutch Apple. YUM!

4923 Primero St.
New Cuyama
Online: cuyamabuckhorn.com

Hidden Vacation Gems near LA: The Seabird Resort

spring break ideas near LA
The Seabird Resort

With temperatures heating up, heading to the beach is a no-brainer for SoCal families—and while you've probably hit the usual suspects, this off-the-beaten-path resort is what spring break dreams are made of. The Seabird Resort has everything a family is looking for—an expansive pool deck, lots of dining options, a spa for the parents (tag-team parenting FTW), and access to the beach with your very own beach valet. 

Family Perks: If the kids have had enough sand and sun, check out the complimentary activities available to resort guests like the Seabird Art Scavenger Hunt and Craft Hour. If you've always wanted to learn how to catch a wave surfer-style, you can book surf lessons for the whole family (ages 4 & up). 

Online: theseabirdresort.com 

Hidden Vacation Gems near LA: Solvang, CA

cool places to visit near LA
Chris D. via Yelp

If you haven't heard about Solvang, this Danish-inspired town located just two hours from DTLA is an easy way to get your European fix without hopping on a plane (and the subsequent jet lag). The family will love shopping this walkable town and eating their merry way through aebleskivers, Napolean's Hats and more.

Family Perks: Don't miss (totally kitschy) Ostrichland where brave little ones can feed these descendants of dinosaurs and Sunny Fields Park—a playground complete with viking ship, windmill and mini gingerbread house. 

Click here for all details about how to spend the weekend in Solvang with kids.

Hidden Vacation Gems near LA: Two Harbors

cool places to stay in Los Angeles
Dukelucimo J. via Yelp

Although Avalon is Catalina Island's most popular destination (here's our guide to spending the weekend in Avalon with kids if you're looking for something less rustic), there's an island adventure on the island's lesser well-known west end via the tiny town of Two Harbors. Hop aboard the Catalina Express and enjoy beautiful Pacific views as you cruise from San Pedro to Two Harbors. The trip takes under two hours and once you're there, outdoor activities are the name of the game.

Family Perks: Families can kayak, hike, fish or spend a memorable day snorkeling the clear blue waters. Two Harbors also offers a unique opportunity for a family camping trip! Bring your tent and gear on the ferry or rent a tent cabin at Two Harbors Campground. And no need to haul over all your supplies—you can pre-order from the Two Harbors General Store. They'll deliver food, drinks and other items straight to your campsite for a fee. Don't forget to bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for American bison free-roaming the island. 

Online: visitcatalinaisland.com/two-harbors

Hidden Vacation Gems near LA: Pioneertown

Palm Springs? Check. Joshua Tree? Check, check. What about Pioneertown? Say what? This little town, located 40 minutes north of Palm Springs (and just 10 minutes from Joshua Tree) looks straight out of the Old West—and for good reason—the area was actually built as a set for for movie studios in the 1940s, complete with a saloon, bank and stables. Today, you can still stroll through pedestrian-friendly downtown Pioneertown, where no cars are allowed—it's "Hoof & Foot Only," as the signs say.

Family Perks: Eat at Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace, which is both a restaurant known for its burgers and an iconic music venue—legendary artists including Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant and Vampire Weekend have performed here. Want to extend your stay beyond just a day trip? Book a room at The Pioneertown Motel—which has been revamped and is now, Instagram-worthy. 

Online: visitpioneertown.com

Hidden Vacation Gems near LA: Beach Terrace Inn

hidden gems near Los Angeles
Beach Terrace Inn via Yelp

This family-owned hotel is the only lodging with a private (and direct access) beach in Carlsbad Village, and is within easy walking distance to over 70 shops and restaurants. Make sure to order the Continental breakfast—reviewers can't stop raving about it. 

Family Perks: LEGOLAND and The Flower Fields are less than five miles away while San Diego is just 30 minutes to the south. 

Online: beachterraceinn.com

Hidden Vacation Gems near LA: Paso Robles

Hotel Cheval, located in the town square in Paso Robles, is sophisticated enough for adults yet seemingly made for kids. The hotel has it's very own in-house S'mores Butler (complimentary evening S’mores made to order down to the ingredient choices and how you like your marshmallows roasted) and a Library and Candy Bar—yep, you guessed it—a cozy spot to read a book, play a board game and nibble on some complimentary sweets. And don't forget your furry family member—this hotel is dog-friendly to boot. 

Family Perks: As if the above aren't enough, this spot is just a 10-minute drive from Sensorio: Art Installation in Paso Robles—where 6‑foot-tall tow­ers com­posed of more than 17,000 wine bot­tles, illu­mi­nat­ed with glow­ing optic fibers whose col­ors morph to a mov­ing musi­cal score. There's also a nearby waterpark, horseback riding, and for the parents, wine-tasting galore.

Online: hotelcheval.com

 

—Kerry Cushman &  Andie Huber

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