Northern California is a scenic haven offering a host of attractions for families. To help inspire your family road trip in Northern California, check out where Mhairri Woodhall recommends you eat, play and stay in Sonoma County, Napa Valley and Mendocino County.
Start your Northern California road trip in Sonoma County
Just under an hour northeast of San Francisco, Sonoma County is sprinkled with small farming communities, boutique family-run wineries and vibrant town centers.
All manner of art is celebrated in Sonoma, and the county’s signature relaxed vibe emanates throughout its historic plazas, museums, galleries and award-winning restaurants.
Laid-back and bursting with charm, Sonoma has all the elements needed for a memorable family vacation.
Girl and the Fig, Sonoma County
Where to eat wonderfully well in Sonoma County
The girl & the fig in downtown Sonoma is a culinary dream. French inspired, country food is the restaurant’s passion, which has been perfected over the last 20 years. On the salon du fromage menu you’ll find seasonal cheeses, cured meats, local fruit, fresh baguettes and house-made compotes and pickles. Even the pickiest of palates will be satisfied. Other dishes, like the grilled cheese with matchstick fries, locally-sourced beef burger or croque monsieur are sure to please the kids.
Before or after your meal, spend some time at the playground in Sonoma Plaza across the street.
Another restaurant to try with the family is Perch and Plow, which overlooks the historic Courthouse Square in Santa Rosa. Gourmet mac and cheese, fried chicken strips with house made pickles, and caramel apple ricotta doughnuts are some of the dishes sure to satisfy.
The Charles M. Shultz Museum, Northern California
Where to play first in Sonoma County
The Charles M. Shultz Museum is brilliant and will delight Peanuts fans of every age. Upon arrival, request a family guide, which uses interactive activities to help children navigate the space. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the exhibits, which include comic strip displays, a dress-up area with costumes, larger-than-life sculptures, a theatre and an education room where kids can create their own comic strips.
Afterwards, head right next door to the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County. Designed for kids 10 and under, the learn-through-play attraction features cool kid-centric activities, like the science lab, a puppet theatre, kids play café, a crocodile dental clinic and a magical fairy world.
Then complete your day of play by visiting the Larson Family Winery for a tasting and game of bocce. Bring a picnic or purchase provisions onsite. The property, which was once home to Northern California’s largest rodeo, has adorable farm critters and three extremely friendly Labradors, who all love a good scratch behind the ears.
The Lodge at Senoma Resort & Spa, Northern California
Where to stay in this hospitable part of Northern California
The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa is centrally located for exploring the county. Spacious rooms and an outdoor heated pool and hot tub make it an excellent option for families. For parents, nightly wine tastings and a welcome cocktail are included with every stay.
The hotel is also conveniently located within walking distance of Sonoma Plaza, and directly across the street from the Sonoma TrainTown Railroad – a small amusement park with rides, a petting zoo and quarter-scale railroad.
Napa Valley, Northern California
Drop in on Napa Valley, the Northern California legend
With its fleet of opulent landmark wineries and picture-perfect vineyards, Napa Valley has defined itself as one of the country’s most distinguished destinations for oenophiles. However, while the region’s illustrious profile continues to soar among wine aficionados, families have become equally enamored by its bounty.
Pizzeria Tra Vigne, Napa Valley
Napa Valley is unmatched in Northern California
As expected, Napa’s culinary scene is matchless – from farm-to-table casual fare to Michelin-rated sensations, and everything in between. For families wanting high-quality food in a child-friendly atmosphere, there are many standout choices.
In downtown Napa, the Oxbow Public Market is a gastronomic smorgasbord, featuring a sophisticated selection of grab-and-go eats. Freshly shucked oysters, wine flights, cheese platters, sushi, tapas and artisanal chocolates are just a sampling of the delicious selection available.
Heritage Eats is another good find for its globally-inspired rice bowls, salads and bao buns. Or dine in-house, or order takeout for a picnic at Fuller Park, in the centre of town.
Further north, in St. Helena, Pizzeria Tra Vigne is exceptional. Ask for a seat on the patio, and order the freshly hand-pulled (incredible, amazing, wonderous) Mozzarella al Minuto with grilled crostini. The Brooklyn-style arancini (crispy risotto ball) and Nonna’s spaghetti are also delicious.
Castello di Amoroso, Napa Valley
Wine tours pair with playtime in Northern California
Embarking on a wine tour in Napa Valley with the kids in tow may feel daunting. But, if you choose your wineries carefully, the entire family will be able to enjoy the experience.
Begin with Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga. The winery is an authentic replication of a medieval Tuscan stone castle, complete with a dungeon, drawbridge and torture chamber. Kids can explore the expansive grounds and climb the winding staircase of the lookout tower. In the tasting chambers, you’ll find a special room for families where children can draw, nibble on breadsticks and sample the castle’s grape juice.
For a more intimate affair, book a tasting experience at Alpha Omega in St. Helena. While the atmosphere is more serene, the winery provides children with crayons and a special Exploring the Napa Valley with Traveler Teddie activity book. Sampling Alpha Omega’s cabernet sauvignon will be a pinnacle moment in Napa.
Then, spend some time checking out the quaint shops along St. Helena’s Main Street.
