Lodi, California: A Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you’re a true wine lover, then you’ve probably heard of Lodi, California. This charming town is known for producing some of America’s favorite grapes, with approximately 20% of California’s wine grapes coming from Lodi, according to the Lodi Winegrape Commission. But, did you know that Lodi is also a prime destination for outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and fewer crowds? In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best things to do and see in Lodi, from wine tasting to cycling to kayaking. And, to make your stay truly unforgettable, we’ll also recommend some of the most charming and comfortable accommodations in the area.
Wine & Roses: A One-Stop Shop for Wine Tasting and Relaxation
If you’re looking for a fantastic place to stay in Lodi, look no further than Wine & Roses. This locally-owned resort hotel offers rooms nestled into jungle-like surroundings, complete with the sounds of waterfalls and birdcalls. The grounds of Wine & Roses are breathtakingly beautiful, with overflowing hydrangeas in every hue, canopies of trees, leafy ferns, and fountains. And, right on the grounds, you’ll find the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about and taste regional wines without ever leaving your resort.
But that’s not all – Wine & Roses also offers excellent dining options. Just steps outside of your room, grab a coffee and fresh pastries and sandwiches at Towne Corner Café & Market. The resort’s Towne House Restaurant is open for weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner and, along with the adjoining bar, offers fine dining and hand-crafted cocktails. The sounds as you tour the property are unforgettable, from the parrots that say hello as you walk by, to the splash of water just outside your spa treatment room, to the live music serving as a backdrop to the spirited atmosphere in the bar. The resort also offers special events throughout the year, with their Easter Brunch kicking off spring in style.
Wine & Roses is conveniently located in Lodi, making it easy to get to everything you want, from wine to cycling to kayaking. And, if you’re looking for a tranquil and beautiful place to relax, take a stroll around the resort’s gardens. Wine & Roses is truly a study in beauty and tranquility.
Outdoor Recreation in Lodi: Cycling, Kayaking and More
Lodi may be known for its wine production, but there’s so much more to explore in this charming town. If you want to get active and see some beautiful scenery, then you have plenty of options. For example, just a short drive from Wine & Roses will take you to picturesque Lodi Lake. Here, you can kayak or paddleboard your way through beautiful lagoons. Headwaters Kayak will hook you up with classes and everything you need to see 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, don’t miss the 8th annual Paddlefest where you can bring the whole family to enjoy food trucks, live music, and all the watersports you can handle.
If you prefer to stay on land, then take advantage of Lodi’s relatively flat terrain and comfortable weather to rent bikes from local shops like Lodi Cyclery. Both avid cyclists and casual riders will love taking a spin on routes that can challenge or are a pure breeze. Choose your route, set your course, and get some exercise while soaking up this beautiful part of California. You can even bike through wine country, arriving at Oak Farm Vineyards, a truly gorgeous estate. Take a stroll around the grounds to see the restored white colonial home built in 1876 and surrounded by ancient oak trees. Then step into the breathtaking tasting room and ask for the estate grown Fiano.
After a day of cycling or kayaking, you might be ready to wind down and relax. For a little peace and tranquility, or to recharge your batteries before your next winery, visit the completely unexpected Micke Grove Japanese Garden. This secret hideaway beckons you across its red arched bridge to meander along a babbling brook, where waterfalls splash into a koi fish pond. Follow the stepping stones 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.
Wine Tasting in Lodi: An Unforgettable Experience
Of course, no trip to Lodi would be complete without some wine tasting. And, there are plenty of options to choose from in this region. Bokisch Vineyards, with its hilltop views of the vines and the sunset, is a standout choice. Here, you can sample their Alberiño and other delicious varieties while lounging in a red Adirondack chair. For visitors looking for variety in their wine tastes, Michael David Winery is an eclectic choice that offers wine for varying tastes. Sipping their popular Inkblot Petit Syrah under a covered, pond-side cabana is a true pleasure. And, don’t forget to grab some lunch at the on-site farmstand Cafe & Bakery, where the locals flock for homemade pies and meat sourced from the local 4H program.
If you prefer white wine, then Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards is a must-visit destination. Their small-batch productions of Roussanne 2020 and Grenache Blanc 20202 have won Best of Class awards, and their Clairette Blanche and double gold medal 2021 Belle Blanc are divine.
Conclusion
As you can see, Lodi is a hidden gem for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With excellent wine tasting opportunities, stunning natural beauty, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, Lodi has something for everyone. And, with charming and comfortable accommodations like Wine & Roses, you can make your stay even more enjoyable. So, pack your bags and head to Lodi for the trip of a lifetime.
