Lodi, California: Where Wine and the Outdoors Meet
Lodi, California is a leading producer of some of America’s favorite grapes. Approximately 20% of California’s wine grapes come from Lodi, according to the Lodi Winegrape Commission. However, Lodi has much more to offer than just wine. It is a prime destination for outdoor recreation, temperate weather, fewer crowds and natural beauty.
Start your trip by checking into Wine & Roses, a locally-owned resort hotel that is nestled into jungle-like surroundings. You’ll fling open your double doors to the sounds of a waterfall and birdcalls, settle into your surroundings, and have everything you need. On the grounds, you will find the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about and taste regional wines without ever leaving your resort.
There is no shortage of excellent food options on the grounds of Wine & Roses. 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 offers special events throughout the year, with their Easter Brunch kicking off spring in style.
A stroll around the gardens of Wine & Roses is a study in beauty and tranquility. The resort hotel is just a short drive from all Lodi has to offer. From wine to cycling to kayaking, Wine & Roses’ central location makes it easy to get to everything you want.
For outdoor lovers, picturesque Lodi Lake offers an opportunity to kayak or paddleboard your way through beautiful lagoons. Headwaters Kayak has 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.
Cycling through Lodi’s quaint town and out into the vineyards is a joy in and of itself – but the wine that awaits you is an extra treat. Rent bikes from local shops like Lodi Cyclery and choose your route from a variety of flat terrain and comfortable weather options. Both avid cyclists and casual riders will love taking a spin on routes that can challenge or be a pure breeze.
You can even bike through wine country and arrive 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.
If you love to enjoy a variety of grapes, belly up to the tasting bar at the eclectic Michael David Winery. This winery offers wine for varying tastes, including their popular Inkblot Petit Syrah. Enjoy it under a covered, pond-side cabana and hear the story of how their whimsical labels were designed. Grab some lunch at the on-site farmstand Café & Bakery, where the locals flock for homemade pies and meat sourced from the local 4H Program.
White wine lovers will love Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards. 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. Bokisch Vineyards is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of Alberiño. Take a seat in a red Adirondack chair, and gaze out at the hearty vines spread before you.
For a little peace and tranquility, or to recharge your batteries before your next winery, visit the completely unexpected and incredibly impressive Micke Grove Japanese Garden. Dedicated by the Joaquin County residents of Japanese ancestry, 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.
In conclusion, Lodi marries wine with the great outdoors, and we consider it one of California’s hidden gems. When planning your trip to Lodi, make sure you include Wine & Roses, Lodi Lake and other outdoor activities, along with tastings at Michael David Winery, Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards and Bokisch Vineyards. Don’t forget to visit the Micke Grove Japanese Garden before leaving Lodi. Get there before everyone else discovers it and start planning your trip today.
