Top Kid-Friendly Wineries in Southern California

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Just because you have kids doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a day at the wineries. Unlike bars, where the minimum age is typically 21, wineries are usually open to all ages and are a great spot to have lunch or enjoy a day of sunshine. I first started pondering the idea of kid-friendly wineries when we were constantly having sports tournaments in Temecula, home of some amazing wineries. That’s when I discovered just how many great winery options exist for families.

If you’re looking for a day out with the family that checks both the “relaxing wine tasting for the grown-ups” box and the “kids can roam and play” box — you’re in luck. Southern California actually offers some surprisingly good, kid-friendly wineries where parents can sip and kids can explore (or at least be comfortable). Below are five favorites that strike that balance nicely.

And, if you’re looking for even more fun winery outings, check out these awesome wineries in Valle de Guadalupe!

1. Wilson Creek Winery – Temecula Valley

Wilson Creek is one of Temecula’s most well-known and welcoming wineries, especially for families. The sprawling property has plenty of outdoor space to explore and even a play structure for kids to play on. It’s known for its casual, friendly atmosphere and is definitely one of the most kid-friendly wineries in the area.

There’s an on-site restaurant serving lunch and snacks, so you can make a whole afternoon of your visit. Between the beautiful grounds, the welcoming staff, and the relaxed setting, this is one of those wineries where everyone in the family can unwind.

2. Peltzer Winery – Temecula Valley: One of the best kid-friendly wineries during the holiday season

Peltzer Winery is one of my favorite kid friendly wineries. It has a rustic, farm-style charm that immediately feels fun and approachable. The winery is set on a family farm, and the laid-back environment makes it a great place for a casual tasting. The property is open to all ages Sundays – Thursdays and is 21 and up on Fridays and Saturdays at the Crush House Tasting Room. During the summer months, the Farmstead is open to all ages from open to 8pm.

Throughout the year, Peltzer hosts seasonal events — from pumpkin patches to ice skating — that turn a regular winery visit into a memorable outing and make it even more fun for families to enjoy. The large outdoor areas make it easy to relax without worrying about keeping kids cooped up inside.

3. Bernardo Winery – San Diego (Rancho Bernardo)

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly winery that’s further south, Bernardo Winery in San Diego is a wonderful choice. It’s one of the oldest operating wineries in Southern California and feels like a little village, complete with cafes, boutiques, and shaded courtyards. The relaxed, walkable layout makes it a great spot to spend a few hours. Parents can enjoy a flight while exploring the grounds with the kids or grab a bite from the café patio.

4. Ponte Winery – Temecula Valley

While perhaps not quite as kid-friendly as some of the other wineries on this list, the Ponte Winery is still an excellent option for families. This winery is known for its beautiful setting and friendly hospitality. It has a calm, upscale feel without being overly formal, making it a nice balance for families looking for a more refined winery experience that still feels relaxed. The gardens and open-air restaurant provide space to spread out, and the slower pace of the tasting room makes it an easy place to linger.

The tasting rooms at Ponte are for ages 21 and up only, but families can enjoy the garden area and the restaurant. The restaurant has plenty of kid-friendly items on it, and they even come with ice cream.

5. Mount Palomar Winery – Temecula Valley

With sweeping vineyard views and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, Mount Palomar Winery offers one of the prettiest backdrops in Temecula Valley. The family-friendly winery features a spacious patio and a full-service restaurant, so it’s easy to settle in for a leisurely afternoon. The atmosphere here is peaceful and unhurried, perfect for families who prefer something a bit quieter while still soaking up that classic wine country charm. And there are plenty of places for families to explore throughout the grounds.

📝 Before you go — general tips for visiting kid-friendly wineries

• Call ahead or check the website. Policies vary — some wineries are fully all-ages; others allow children in certain spaces/timeframes. Plus, there could be special events going on that either limit the ages or would make your experience less fun with kids.
• Consider the kid-to-adult ratio. If there is a large group of adults, you’ll have plenty of hands and eyes to help with the kids. But if it’s only a couple adults and a large group of children, it might make it a lot harder to enjoy.
• Pack snacks, water & easy toys. Even at kid-friendly wineries, having your own picnic or snack stash helps keep young ones comfortable while you’re tasting.
• Pick times wisely. Weekdays or early afternoons tend to be less crowded and more relaxed; weekends may have more live-music, events, or busier crowds.
• Pick a winery with outdoor space. The kids’ best memory is often running on lawn space, exploring picnic tables, or playing while you sip.
• Respect the rules. Even if the winery is family-friendly, there likely are guidelines (e.g., kids must be attended, no outside alcohol or food, certain days may be adult-only zones).
• Have a fallback. If the kids get tired or bored, consider a “walk around the vineyard” or a break under a tree — sometimes the surroundings are the treat for everyone.

For more family-friendly ideas, check out some of my other popular posts:

• Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in San Diego
• Best Things to do With Kids in Lake Arrowhead
• 40th Birthday Travel Destinations
• Where to Stay in Idyllwild, CA