The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Lodi, California: Wine, Outdoor Recreation, and Natural Beauty
According to the Lodi Winegrape Commission, approximately 20% of California’s wine grapes come from Lodi. But, Lodi offers so much more than just wine. From outdoor recreation to natural beauty, and a temperate climate with fewer crowds, Lodi is a prime destination for travelers. In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your trip to Lodi.
Where to Stay: Wine & Roses Resort Hotel
Start your trip by checking into the locally-owned Wine & Roses Resort Hotel, nestled in lush surroundings that make you feel like you’re in a jungle paradise. As you fling open your double doors, you’ll hear the sounds of waterfalls and birds singing in the distance, providing a relaxing ambiance to settle into your surroundings.
On the resort grounds, you’ll find the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center, where you can learn about and taste wines from the region without ever leaving your resort. The grounds are also remarkably stunning, with abundant hydrangeas in every hue, canopies of trees, leafy ferns, and fountains that provide a tranquil escape.
When it comes to excellent food, you don’t need to venture far. Steps outside of your room, grab a coffee and fresh pastries at the Towne Corner Café & Market. The resort’s Towne House Restaurant is open for weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner and also features an adjoining bar that offers fine dining and hand-crafted cocktails. Live music can be heard in the bar, creating a spirited atmosphere that is unforgettable. The resort also hosts special events throughout the year, with their Easter Brunch kicking off the spring in style.
What to Do: Outdoor Recreation Galore
Bike through Lodi’s quaint town and the vineyards for a relaxing day trip. Rent bikes from local shops like Lodi Cyclery and choose a route that suits your skills and fitness level. Take advantage of the flat terrain and comfortable weather to get some exercise and soak up the beautiful surroundings.
Kayak or paddleboard your way through picturesque Lodi Lake, where you can dip your toes and paddles into beautiful lagoons. Headwaters Kayak offers classes and rentals for a fun-filled day on the water, while you observe the waterbird life, tall grasses, turtles sunning on rocks, and beautiful resident homes that pop up at various portions of the lake and its lagoons. On April 15, join the fun at the 8th annual Paddlefest with live music, food trucks, and all the watersports you can handle.
The Micke Grove Japanese Garden is an unexpected and impressive secret hideaway. Follow the red arched bridge to meander along a babbling brook, where waterfalls splash into a koi fish pond. Stepping stones lead around the stone lanterns that rise up out of the landscape, and stop to appreciate the maple trees bursting through the sea of lush, green landscape. Take a moment to recharge your batteries before your next winery visit.
Where to Wine and Dine
For a variety of grapes, visit the eclectic Michael David Winery, which offers wine for all tastes. Sample their popular Inkblot Petit Syrah under a covered, pond-side cabana while hearing the story of how their whimsical labels were designed. Grab lunch at the on-site farmstand Cafe & Bakery, where the locals flock for homemade pies and meat sourced from the local 4H program.
For white wine lovers, Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards is a must-visit. Their small batch productions of Roussanne and Grenache Blanc have won Best of Class awards. Their Clairette Blanche and double gold medal winning 2021 Belle Blanc are divine, making this tiny winery a gem.
If you’re a fan of Albariño, visit Bokisch Vineyards. Take a seat in one of their red Adirondack chairs, and gaze at the beautiful vines before you. The hilltop views of the vines and the sunset will make you fall in love with Lodi.
Wrap Up
Lodi, California combines wine with the great outdoors, making it one of California’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a fan of wine or outdoor recreation, a visit to Lodi is worth your time. Just a short distance from San Francisco, it’s a perfect getaway that’s not too far from home. Visit Lodi and discover its rich treasures.
