San Diego’s Best Family-Friendly Wineries

Wineries and vineyards provide the perfect ambiance for a relaxing outing. Many San Diego establishments have gone out of their way to create a family-friendly vibe or host events that welcome children. Feel free to bring the kids along when you support these local winemakers, but check their calendar of events in advance and be mindful of other guests when kids are in tow.

Photo courtesy of Rancho Guejito Vineyard

Rancho Guejito Vineyard

Escondido www.ranchoguejitovineyard.com

At Rancho Guejito Vineyard the spacious grounds include a tasting room and shaded gardens overlooking stunning vineyards. Bounce houses and lawn games are available for kids. The vineyard hosts a monthly Sunday Funday just for families—a collaboration with Indie Sol Collective. Past events include a Hullaballoo concert and Kids Yoga. Don’t miss the hayride tours (yes, parents are welcome to bring wine aboard). Check the schedule for live music and activities. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am–7 pm.

Milagro

Ramona www.milagrowinery.com

In addition to its large indoor tasting room, Milagro Winery boasts a dog-friendly outdoor patio with a play structure, bocce court and cornhole boards. Kids are welcome to climb the giant natural boulders and explore the beautiful grounds while parents sip award-wining wines. Milagro has a bring-your-own-food policy, making family picnics a breeze. Check the schedule for live music. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 12-6.

Principe di Tricase Winery

Ramona www.pineandwine.com

This family-owned winery proudly welcomes children, dogs and even horses. The kids’ play area offers crafts and toys and is sometimes staffed by a babysitter (call ahead to confirm). A food cart serves Italian-themed classics, including pizzas, pastas and slushies. Vegan and gluten-friendly options are available. Guests can enjoy the spacious patio or find a cozy picnic spot among the trees. Check the schedule for live entertainment. Open Friday-Sunday 125:30.

Bernardo Winery

Rancho Bernardo www.bernardowinery.com

At Bernardo winery, families love the charming antique décor and boutique retail cottages— including a candy and gelato shop. Menus are kid-friendly (think pizza, pasta and panini) with plenty of non-alcoholic drinks and snacks available. Enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner at one of many beautiful, shaded patios in the courtyard. For larger groups, a grassy area is available near the lower vineyard by reservation only. No outside food or beverages, and no pets. Check the schedule for events, including a Farmer’s Market on Fridays. The Kitchen Restaurant is open Wednesday–Saturday 11-8 and Sunday 9-1.

Cordiano Winery

Escondido www.cordianowinery.com

Cordiano Winery boasts breathtaking views on a large, outdoor patio. The kitchen serves kid-friendly pizzas and pastas. An outdoor bocce court promises fun for the whole family. This spot is busy, with a casual but energic vibe. Reservations are required. There is a 2-hour limit per table. Open Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday 12-5, Friday and Saturday 12-6.

Orfila Vineyards & Winery

Escondido www.orfila.com

Orfila boasts a large family-friendly park, perfect for picnics with little ones. The grounds are not far from the Safari Park, making this winery a great spot to unwind after a day with the animals. While children are not permitted inside the tasting room, a convenient walk-up window allows parents to select wines without entering. Check the schedule for live music and rotating food trucks. Leashed dogs are welcome. Open 11-7 daily.

Domaine Artefact

Escondido www.domaineartefact.wine

This family-owned winery features a wrap-around patio with gorgeous views and outdoor games for children. Guests are welcome to bring their own food. Families of younger children might enjoy more secluded seating in the olive grove, where there is plenty of space to run around. This winery is best for kids (and adults) who are comfortable with unleashed dogs, since it is an exceptionally pet-friendly site. Open Friday 2-7, Saturday and Sunday 12-7.

Read our full list of wineries at www.sandiegofamily.com/thingsto-do/dining-and-recipes/bestfamily-friendly-wineries-san-diego.

Anne Malinoski is a contributing writer. She lives in Santee with her husband and two sons.

July 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com • 15