Wine Country Kids - from Napa Mom's Club

Sure, Napa has a reputation for being an adult destination, but watching grownups sip wine isn't exactly fun for the little ones. There's plenty to do for kids here, too, and what better person to ask for ideas than Julie Gerien of the Napa Moms Club? Here, she gives her picks for places to stay, things to do and what to eat to keep the whole family happy in Wine Country.

Of course, theres no reason why you cant take the kids along with you on a winery outing, but Julie suggests two that may be more fun that the others. Judds Hill is pretty family friendly we are friends with the family and they have kids of their own, Julie says. Another idea she shares is to pack a lunch and spend some family time en... More >
Of course, theres no reason why you cant take the kids along with you on a winery outing, but Julie suggests two that may be more fun that the others. Judds Hill is pretty family friendly we are friends with the family and they have kids of their own, Julie says. Another idea she shares is to pack a lunch and spend some family time enjoying the beautiful scenery. V. Sattui Winery, which is on 29 closer to St. Helena, has beautiful picnic grounds.
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For kid-friendly accommodations, Julie recommends the Embassy Suites, located near downtown Napa, that features two-room suites perfect for families and also offers complimentary breakfast. Also nearby is the Napa Valley Wine Train station and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. Another option, and "for those with fatter wallets, Solage in Calistoga has detached rooms (no kitchens, though) that might be comfortable for a family," Julie says.
After all that activity youll probably start to hear the cries of, Im hungry!
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Julie has lots of ideas for kids to have fun in Napa - from reading books to climbing rocks. "The local Napa library, which is right downtown, has a fun story time," she says, and offers a schedule of different days/times depending on the ages of your child. If youre looking for something for your little Einstein, Julie has a suggestion for that, too. "One of our favorite places in town is a place called the Scientopia Discovery Center. Its a science-based place space with drop in hours and is especially good when its really hot or rainy."
After all that activity youll probably start to hear the cries of, Im hungry! Check out some of these joints that Julie recommends for satisfying the younger palates. She says, "One of our favorite places to go in Napa is the Oxbow. It has a variety of food from different vendors and outdoor seating and is very kid friendly." If its mo... More >
After all that activity youll probably start to hear the cries of, Im hungry! Check out some of these joints that Julie recommends for satisfying the younger palates. She says, "One of our favorite places to go in Napa is the Oxbow. It has a variety of food from different vendors and outdoor seating and is very kid friendly." If its more traditional fare youre craving, right next door is Gott's Roadside (formerly Taylor's Refresher) with "great burgers but a bit expensive", she cautions. She goes on to reccomend another really great local burger place called Norman Rose as well.
For other dining options, Julie points out that spaghetti is always a hit with the little ones. "Across the street is Filippi's, an old style Italian restaurant that my kids love, and Bistro don Giovanni is a fabulous Italian restaurant that has a beautiful fountain and also outdoor seating." Also, to start your day off right, Julie su... More >
For other dining options, Julie points out that spaghetti is always a hit with the little ones. "Across the street is Filippi's, an old style Italian restaurant that my kids love, and Bistro don Giovanni is a fabulous Italian restaurant that has a beautiful fountain and also outdoor seating." Also, to start your day off right, Julie suggests heading to her favorite location for breakfast, Buttercream Bakery, an old-time bakery/diner on Jefferson in the middle of town.
"Across the street is Filippi's, an old style Italian restaurant that my kids love, and Bistro don Giovanni is a fabulous Italian restaurant that has a beautiful fountain and also outdoor seating." Also, to ...
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About the Author

Julie Gerien
Julie Gerien
Julie Gerien is the president of the Napa Mom's Club, which has been around since 2007 and has 500+ members. The club is a great resource and source of fun for moms and kids of all ages in the Napa area.
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