Lodi, California: A Wine Lover’s Paradise and So Much More
Lodi, California is a veritable paradise for wine lovers, accounting for approximately 20% of California’s wine grape production. But beyond the vineyards and wineries, Lodi offers much more – natural beauty, outdoor recreation, temperate weather, fewer crowds, and a wholly distinct experience.
Your trip to Lodi should start with checking into Wine & Roses, a locally-owned resort hotel with an unmistakable jungle-like atmosphere. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of a glistening waterfall and the calls of local birds. Once you’ve settled in, you’ll find yourself with effortless access to everything you need right on the resort grounds.
One such destination worthy of exploration is the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about and taste regional wines without ever leaving your resort. The site’s stunningly beautiful canopy of trees, overflowing hydrangeas in every hue, leafy ferns, and fountains provide the perfect ambiance for wine tasting and relaxation.
When it comes to fantastic food, you won’t have to venture far, either. Steps outside of your room, you can grab coffee, fresh pastries, and sandwiches at the Towne Corner Café & Market. The resort’s Towne House Restaurant offers fine dining and hand-crafted cocktails and is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner all weekend long. The live music and spirited atmosphere in the bar create an unforgettable experience you won’t find anywhere else.
The Wine & Roses resort offers special events throughout the year, starting with their Easter Brunch. A stroll around the gardens of Wine & Roses – a resort hotel just a short drive from all Lodi has to offer – is a study in beauty and tranquility. Every corner is adorned with natural beauty, from the vivid, overflowing hydrangeas to the elegant fountains that grace the grounds.
If you love the great outdoors, Wine & Roses’ central location makes it easy to get to everything you want, from wine to cycling to kayaking. You can take a short drive to picturesque Lodi Lake, where you can paddleboard or kayak through the lagoons while immersing yourself in stunning waterbird life, tall grasses, turtles sunning on rocks, and beautiful resident homes that pop up at various locations around the lake.
Cycling through Lodi’s quaint town and the vineyards is another must-do outdoor activity. Even casual riders can take their bicycles out for a spin on challenging routes or a refreshing breeze. You can bike through wine country, arriving at Oak Farm Vineyards – an estate with breathtaking views, surrounded by ancient oak trees and a restored colonial home from 1876. You can also visit other vineyards, such as Bokisch Vineyards, to sample the delicious Alberiño wine as you bask in the view of vines and sunset.
As you explore the picturesque town of Lodi, be sure to visit the Micke Grove Japanese Garden – a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the city. Crossing the red arched bridge leading to the garden, you’ll find yourself wandering around a babbling brook with waterfalls splashing into a koi fish pond. Following the stepping stones around the stone lanterns will lead you to appreciate the lush green landscape, which features maple trees bursting through the scenery.
Lastly, be sure to visit Michael David Winery to sample a variety of grapes. The winery offers wine for varying tastes, and every corner is designed with whimsical labels that the winery staff can explain. You can enjoy their popular Inkblot Petit Syrah under a covered cabana beside the ponds, or take a break at the on-site farmstand Cafe & Bakery for homemade pies and local 4H program-sourced meat.
Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards is another must-visit destination – specifically for white wine lovers. Their small batch productions of top-quality Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, and Belle Blanc have received several awards, including Best of Class.
In summary, Lodi, California, is a perfect destination for all types of visitors – whether you’re a wine lover, an outdoor enthusiast or seeking a vacation surrounded by natural beauty, you will find it all in Lodi. Plan a visit now and get ready to be swept away by the beauty and tranquility of this hidden paradise.
