Wine tasting doesn’t have to be an adults-only affair. Imagine relaxing with a glass of your favorite Pinot Noir while your children play happily in a beautiful vineyard setting. For parents seeking a delightful weekend outing that caters to both adult palates and kid-friendly fun, look no further than family-friendly wineries. Ditch the brunch queues and embrace the charm of vineyards where everyone in the family is welcome.
Located in the picturesque Washington County, South Beaverton residents are perfectly positioned to explore a treasure trove of wineries just a short drive away. These aren’t just any wineries; they’re havens where lush landscapes, stunning mountain vistas, and knowledgeable wine experts combine to create an inviting atmosphere for visitors of all ages. The best part? You can bring your children along to share in the experience.
Kids running on grass at a winery while adults enjoy wine tasting
On a recent family adventure, we joined friends at a local winery and discovered the magic firsthand. While the adults savored a wine tasting flight, the kids explored the expansive grassy areas, fascinated by the tiny wonders of nature among the flowers. Our experience highlighted key insights for making winery visits with children a resounding success.
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Essential Tips for Winery Visits with Children
Navigating a winery visit with kids requires a bit of planning to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable time for everyone. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you make the most of your family-friendly winery experience:
Arrive Early for a Relaxed Experience
Aim to arrive when the winery opens, typically around 11 am. Early arrival offers several advantages. It aligns well with children’s post-lunch nap schedules, often means milder temperatures, especially during warmer months, and generally translates to fewer crowds in the tasting room. A less crowded environment is naturally more conducive to a stress-free experience with little ones.
Call Ahead to Confirm Kid-Friendly Policies
While many wineries are embracing families, it’s always wise to confirm their kid-friendly status beforehand. A quick phone call can save you potential disappointment. Even wineries generally known to be family-friendly may have specific days or events where children aren’t as welcome, or their policies might have changed. Double-checking ensures a smooth and welcoming visit.
Supervise Children Closely for Safety and Respect
Regardless of how kid-friendly a winery is, parental supervision remains paramount. This is common sense, but crucial. Keeping a watchful eye on your children not only ensures their safety in a new environment but also prevents any unintentional grape “u-picking” or disruptions to other guests’ experiences. Wineries are shared spaces, and respectful behavior from everyone contributes to a positive atmosphere.
Pack a Picnic to Cater to Everyone’s Tastes
Winery food offerings can vary. Some might have gourmet cheese boards, while others have limited or no food options beyond snacks. To ensure your children are well-fed and happy, packing a picnic is a smart move. Even if your child enjoys sophisticated food, having familiar snacks on hand is always a good idea. Many family-friendly wineries offer picnic tables or spacious lawns where you can comfortably enjoy your packed lunch or snacks amidst the vineyard scenery.
Bring Entertainment to Keep Kids Engaged
While adults can happily spend time sipping wine and conversing, children might need a bit more to keep them entertained. Bringing along age-appropriate entertainment is key to preventing boredom and meltdowns. Consider packing a portable game like checkers, a soccer ball for outdoor play on grassy areas, coloring books, or favorite reading books. These simple items can make a significant difference in keeping children happily occupied.
Set a Time Limit for Younger Children’s Attention Spans
For families with preschoolers or younger children, keeping winery visits relatively short is often beneficial. Younger children tend to have shorter attention spans and can become restless or tired more quickly. Limiting visits to around 2.5 hours, including travel time, often strikes a good balance, preventing crankiness and ensuring everyone leaves on a positive note. Babies in carriers are generally more adaptable and can often be included for longer durations.
Invite Friends for Shared Fun
Everything is often more enjoyable with friends, and winery visits are no exception. Inviting friends, both for yourself and your children, enhances the social aspect of the outing. Children can play together, and adults can relax and socialize while sharing the wine tasting experience. A group setting often makes outings more festive and memorable.
Pace Yourself and Savor the Experience
Wine tastings are meant to be savored. Each tasting pour is typically around one ounce, and a standard glass of wine is five ounces. During your winery visit, take your time, enjoy each sample, and allow ample time to relax and soak in the vineyard ambiance. If you are concerned about the alcohol content, it’s perfectly acceptable to skip a sample or two and focus on enjoying the atmosphere and company. The goal is to have a pleasant and relaxed experience, not to rush through the tasting.
Recommended Family-Friendly Winery Regions
When planning your family winery outing, consider these regions known for their welcoming atmosphere towards children:
- Amity
- Carlton
- Cornelius
- Dayton
- Dundee
- Forest Grove
- Gaston
- Hillsboro
- Hood River
- Newberg
- Oregon City
- Portland
- Sherwood
- St. Paul
- West Linn
- Yacolt
Please remember to verify the kid-friendly policy directly with the winery when planning your visit, as policies can change. Some wineries genuinely welcome children, while others merely allow them. Direct contact can clarify their specific approach and ensure a comfortable experience for your family.
Are we missing a fantastic family-friendly winery that you love? Share your recommendations and experiences with us! Reach out via Direct Message on Instagram.
By Katie Carrick
Katie is a writer and parent living in Beaverton. She enjoys exploring family-friendly activities in the Pacific Northwest.
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