Approximately 20% of California’s wine grapes come from Lodi, making it a must-visit destination for true wine lovers. However, Lodi is more than just a wine region; it’s also a prime destination for outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and temperate weather. If you’re looking for a relaxing and exciting vacation, Lodi should be at the top of your list. In this article, we’ll explore the best things to do in Lodi, from wine tasting to kayaking, and everything in between.
Start your trip by checking into Wine & Roses, a locally-owned resort hotel that offers everything you need for a comfortable and luxurious stay. Its rooms, nestled into jungle-like surroundings, offer a peaceful and serene ambiance, with sounds of a waterfall and birdcalls to wake you up in the morning. On the grounds, you will find the Lodi Wine & Visitor Centre, where you can learn about and taste regional wines without ever leaving your resort.
The resort’s Towne House Restaurant is a must-visit for all food lovers. It is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner and boasts a fine dining experience with hand-crafted cocktails. Steps outside of your room, you can visit Towne Corner Café & Market to grab a coffee and fresh pastries and sandwiches. The live music serving as a backdrop to the spirited atmosphere in the bar adds a touch of elegance to your dining experience.
Wine & Roses resort offers special events throughout the year, with their Easter Brunch kicking off spring in style. Take a stroll around the gardens of the resort to witness a study in beauty and tranquillity.
Wine & Roses’ central location makes it easy to get to everything you want, from wine to cycling to kayaking. A short drive will take you to your choice of outdoor recreation, including picturesque Lodi Lake, where you can kayak or paddleboard your way through beautiful lagoons. Headwaters Kayak offers 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.
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 for a spin on routes that can challenge or breeze. 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.
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. The 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 and stop to appreciate the maple trees bursting through the sea of lush, green landscape.
To sample a variety of grapes, belly up to the tasting bar at the eclectic Michael David Winery, which offers wine for varying tastes. Sip their popular Inkblot Petit Syrah 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 Cafe & Bakery, where the locals flock for homemade pies and meat sourced from the local 4H program. If white wine is more your speed, Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards is for you. 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.
In conclusion, Lodi, California, should be your next vacation destination if you are a true wine lover or are looking for outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and temperate weather. It offers everything from wine tasting to kayaking and everything in between. A visit to Wine & Roses resort, Lodi Lake, Oak Farm Vineyards, Michael David Winery, and Micke Grove Japanese Garden should be on your itinerary. Get ready to be amazed by California’s hidden gem before everyone else discovers it.
