Pack your bags! It’s time to get away and head off on your next big adventure. The world is waiting for you to explore.
Deciding where to go on your next big trip can be a tough decision. Do you want adventure or relaxation? Are you traveling alone, as a couple, or with the family? Most importantly, what kind of experiences do you want to have?
For wine lovers, traveling is the perfect chance to taste and discover new wines. It’s both enjoyable and educational as you visit vineyards and learn about winemaking. Plus, sipping overlooking beautiful scenery is an added perk. Planning your vacation around wine can be well worth it.
So where do you go to experience the ultimate wine getaway? There are some great destinations that might not jump to the front of your mind. However, they are all spectacular and offer awesome wine activities as well as other amazing attractions. Nearly every area of the country offers great places for wine lovers to explore!
Stunning Temecula Valley in Sunny Southern California Is a Great Wine Lover’s Destination
Are you looking to experience a ton of great wine with a side of perfect weather? Head to the Temecula Valley in Southern California. Conveniently nestled between the bustling cities of San Diego and Los Angeles, Temecula is a peaceful paradise.
One of the best things about the Temecula Valley is the abundance of things to do. The region is, of course, known for its beautiful wineries. However, the many area attractions provide entertainment and experiences for all of its visitors.
Take a Wine Tour in Temecula Valley
Heading out on a wine tour is a must-do while in Temecula. This is the perfect way to safely experience several wineries, led by an expert guide. You’ll get to taste wines from many of the areas expert winemakers as you travel about the valley. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the scenery roll by.
A cable car or trolley tour is a unique way to tour the wine country. You’ll take in the rolling hills and sprawling vineyards as you ride around in style. Spending five relaxing hours touring and tasting, you’ll have a break to refuel for lunch. This unforgettable experience is a perfect way to spend the day with family and friends. It’s also a perfect activity for a wedding weekend.
Experience A View From Above in the Temecula Valley, With Wine
One of the most popular things to do in Temecula is taking a ride in a hot air balloon, and for good reason. The view of the valley from above is truly spectacular. What better place to experience this one in a lifetime adventure?
Take off at sunrise and enjoy the view of the day breaking over the rows of lush grapevines. Enjoy stunning views as you sail through the Southern California skies. Then, toast to your new memories with a refreshing mimosa after you land. Your float above Temecula will be an experience you won’t soon forget.
Enjoy Some Boos and Brews
The history of Temecula is long and rich. This former wild west hotspot has quite a few stories to tell. Experience them first hand with a haunted tour of the historic town. Your tour guide will take you to all of the eeriest Temecula haunts as you learn about the area’s former residents. Feel your hair stand on end as you travel through the streets, hearing stories of spiritual encounters.
For those ready for a break in the wine, the tour will begin and end at the delicious Black Market Brewing. You’ll enjoy a refreshing flight of the brewery’s carefully crafted beer. Choose from anything from a tropically inspired blonde ale to a hoppy west coast style IPA. After your tour, settle your spooked stomach with pizza from the brewery’s menu of diverse options.
Stay in Style in Temecula Valley Wine Country
There’s no shortage of places to stay in Temecula. However, none of the options are quite like The South Coast Winery Resort and Spa. This conveniently located resort is the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement.
In between exploring the area, you can take a dip in the saltwater pool and get pampered at the luxurious spa. Begin the day with brunch or refuel in the evening at the resort’s onsite eatery, The Vineyard Rose Restaurant.
Your amazingly comfortable suite is the perfect place to wind down for the day with spectacular views of the lush grounds and the nearby valley. Enjoy a glass of your new favorite wine on the patio or in front of the fireplace. Your comfortable accommodations will make sure you’re well-rested for your next day of adventure!
The Heart of the South, Georgia Wine Country
Looking for some good old southern hospitality and delicious wine. Head down to the land of peaches and visit the sweet state of Georgia. Not only is there plenty of history and scenery, but there are also some unique wineries to visit and try. These vineyards are full of diverse offerings and unique tastes.
The south is known for its delicious soul food, welcoming demeanor, and suburb weather. However, the breezy climate is also perfect for growing grapes. A visit to the Georgia wine country is a fun way to explore the state outside of its more popular tourist destinations.
A Charming Town of Wineries
A little over an hour north of Atlanta sits the quaint and charming town of Dahlonega. This area is the perfect spot to begin your journey. With easy access to plenty of vineyards and beautiful views of the foothills, it’s a great place to explore. The town itself is home to several wineries, making hitting them all convenient and easy.
First, you can explore one of the areas most notable vineyards, Three Sisters. The 184-acre property is the area’s first family farm winery. Only using fruit native to the state, a tasting here is a unique experience. Enjoy your wine in the tasting room at the cherry wood bar or outdoors under the Georgia sun while listening to live music.
Nearby, the Monteluce Winery is the perfect spot to try a flight and grab dinner. Let an expert guide you through your tasting as you try some of the most delicious wines in the region. Then, enjoy a chef-crafted dinner in the onsite restaurants. The creative menu features local produce as well as high-quality meats to fit everyone’s fancy.
A Cottage Camping Adventure, With Wine
What better way to enjoy your stay in nature than with scenic views and peaceful surroundings? A stay in The Dancing Bear Cottage can be a great way to relax after a day of exploring the vineyards. The private accommodations give you the added perk of access to the amenities at the Mtn Laurel Creek Inn and Spa.
You can retreat to the fully-furnished cabin and eat in for a quiet evening. Waking in the morning, you can enjoy your coffee on the spacious screened-in porch. You could also head over to the resort for a dip in the pool. Schedule a relaxing spa treatment and feel all of your stress melt away.
Take in nature and enjoy a walk in the surrounding woods to check out the waterfall. Enjoy a round of golf or go rafting on the river. You can even try your hand and luck at panning for gold and gemstones!
Take in Nature, Then Have Some Wine
Just north of Dahlonega sits the Chattahoochee Natural Forest. This wilderness region is ripe for a day of adventure. No matter your interests and skill level, there’s something to do at this beautiful natural safe haven!
With 850 miles of nature trails, there’s a path for any level of hiker to explore. With streams and wildlife galore, you can immerse yourself in the wilderness. Let your senses take in the amazing sights as you move around the park. The diverse southern plant and animal life is truly a treasure to observe.
Upstate New York and the Peaceful Finger Lakes
Upstate New York is a stunning area with beautiful landscapes. Time your trip right to enjoy the areas magnificent fall foliage. The rolling hills and dense forest offer spectacular views and a relaxing vibe.
The Finger Lakes region is a perfect destination for everyone. Ideal for a quiet romantic getaway, there’s plenty of exploring for couples. It’s also super family-friendly, with attractions for all ages and interests.
The Country’s First Wine Trail
A visit to this region simply must include the Cayuga Wine Trail. This trail, the very first in America, will take you on a scenic journey to some of the areas best wineries. Enjoy waterfront views and the sounds of nature as you try out some amazing wines.
The trail’s fourteen wineries have great wines and diverse experiences. Visit the towering Goose Watch and enjoy a tasting overlooking the crystal blue lake. Sit on the peaceful front porch at Varick Winery and sample their great wine as well as delicious snacks. At the beautiful Montezuma Winery, you can try their variety of wines as well as locally-sourced spirits like vodka and bourbon.
Spending the day exploring the trail is made easy by the other attractions along the way. The BoatYard Grill is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat while overlooking the water. The Cayuga Creamery is a great place to grab a scoop of fresh and rich ice cream. And don’t forget to stop by the Muranda Cheese Company to pick up some cheese to go with the wine you’ll surely purchase along the way!
Stellar Drink Options, Including Wine
Sure, the Finger Lakes region is great for wine lovers. However, the area has a ton to offer nearly anyone. The breweries and distilleries in the area also pump out some delicious beverages. Visiting a few might actually lead you to discover something new.
Three Brothers Winery and Estates is truly the best of both worlds! With three on-site wineries, The War Horse Brewery, and a coffee shop, you may never want to leave this amazing find! Try their delicious vino and take a tour. Choose your favorite brew with a flight of their unique offerings. Then, grab a cup of joe in the cafe for an afternoon pick me up!
Make Finger Lakes Distilling a part of your adventure! With everything from whiskey and gin to vodka and brandy, there’s something for everyone. Stop in for a flight or a signature cocktail to try out what this distillery has to offer. Plus, the views you’ll take in as you sip your chosen drink are truly unbeatable!
Cruising on the Water and Drinking Wine
What better way to enjoy a region full of beautiful lakes than by exploring the water? Booking a boat charter is an unforgettable experience. You’ll enjoy nature and get to and from the areas best attractions. Plus, there isn’t much better than an evening on the lake.
With Water to Wine Tours, your sail along the water, coming ashore for several wine tastings along the way. Soak up the shoreline as you discover your next favorite merlot or chardonnay. Refuel for lunch and enjoy the scenic views and peaceful ride.
Ohio Wine Destinations, A Midwest Treasure
The Buckeye State might not be the first you think when planning your wine getaway. However, the midwest haven is home to plenty of vino to taste and explore. Plus, there are tons of other activities to do and sights to see.
The northern part of the state is dotted with tons of great wineries. The picturesque water of Lake Erie and the beautiful Cuyahoga Forest are also the perfect backdrops for exploration. Plus, with a mild climate, the area is perfect to enjoy the outdoors.
A Hidden Gem For Wine Enthusiasts
Nestled in Canton, Ohio sits the Gervasi Vineyard. This sprawling property is home to upscale amenities as well as expert winemakers. It’s also the perfect location to stay to access all that Northern Ohio has to offer.
A stay at the Gervasi’s accommodations will not disappoint. With luxury around every corner, you’ll love sipping a glass of red on the outdoor patio or enjoying your favorite white fireside. Enjoy your peaceful mornings having coffee at the resort’s on-site cafe.
Explore the stunning 5-acre vineyard allows you to see where the experts source the high-quality ingredients for their amazing wine. A private tour of the facility puts you face to face with the winemaking process. Don’t forget to do a tasting so you can discover your next favorite wine.
Get Up Close With Football’s Greatest
Just a few miles away from the vineyard is the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This ode to the greatest athletes to ever play the game is a must-see. This museum isn’t just for avid fans. There’s something for everyone to see and do.
Check out the Hall of Famers Gallery to learn about each of the hundreds of honored players. The interactive area is perfect for little hands that want to try out the latest Madden game or see replica player’s lockers. You can even check out the actual trophy that will be awarded at the next Super Bowl!
Head Up North and Get Some Wine
The drive up to the city of Cleveland is well worth it! With plenty to see and do, including the impressive great lakes shoreline, this northern city is a must-visit. Spending a day or two exploring its attractions makes for a fun trip.
CLE urban winery is a super unique space. Featuring local wines in a historic setting, it’s a pretty cool experience. Visiting the tasting room before your meal will give you a great way to try out the amazing vino Ohio has to offer. Their variety of red, white, and fruit-infused wine provides choices for everyone’s palettes.
Exploring the historic Ohio City area is another awesome way to experience Cleveland. With shops and restaurants lining the streets, you can eat and shop your way through the neighborhood. The West Side Market is an amazing indoor-outdoor marketplace featuring booths selling everything from meat to produce, and of course, wine!
Big Wine Flavors in the Texas Hill Country
Head down south to visit the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Not only is the scenery beautiful, but the rich culture and history make it an enjoyable adventure. This locale in the southern part of the state offers abundant sunshine and balmy weather.
Views of the mountains and the great climate make Texas Hill Country prime for adventure. With the breeze off the gulf, you’ll enjoy amazing days and even more beautiful evenings. The outdoors are calling and so is some amazing, Lonestar state wine!
A Day Trip to Wine Tastings
This region is spotted with over fifty amazing wineries. Of course, everything is bigger in Texas and the wine country is no exception. The best way to experience the area is by narrowing your focus on a region and exploring away. Fredericksburg is the perfect area to get a great feel for The Hill Country.
First, you can begin with bubbles at Heath Sparkling Wines. Not only is the wine delightfully fizzy, but the modern facilities themselves are absolutely stunning. Then, check out Inniswood Estates Winery and Bistro for a tasting and delightful lunch. A glass of their local cabernet or chardonnay makes the perfect pairings for a crisp salad or delectable cheeseboard.
Spend the afternoon tasting your way through the other vineyards in the area. At Messina Hof, the family-owned winery offers over fifty wines in their enormous tasting room. End the day at Texas Heritage Vineyard for a great time sipping wine on the patio while listening to some awesome live tunes.
A Stay with a View and Some Wine
All of this exploring is sure to make you tired. When you’re in wine country, why not stay at a location to be further immersed in the area’s offerings? The Vineyard at Florence offers stunning and luxurious accommodations to make your visit even more spectacular.
Rent a suite and wind down for the day overlooking the vineyard next to a crackling fire. You can even rent a full villa for the ultimate in group travel. Wherever you choose to stay, make sure to take advantage of the winery’s amazing amenities. Book a spa treatment, get a workout in, and take a plunge in the refreshing pool.
While you’re there, you can’t miss out on the incredible food and wine! Enjoy a wine tasting to find your favorite Texas wine. Order a chef-prepared picnic to go or enjoy live music and wine in the serene courtyard. The onsite eatery, Cafe di Elysia, offers delicious Italian classics like pizza and pasta.
Enjoy a Thrilling Day
Whether you are traveling alone or with kiddos, a dip in the pool is just what the Texas sunshine ordered. Why not take it to the next level by visiting an exhilarating water park? A visit to Schlitterbahn is an amazing way to spend a hot southern day.
Enjoy the parks fun and fast waterslides and pools. Bask in the sun or take to the shade and rent a cabana. You’ll have a blast at the many playgrounds and interactive water features. And don’t worry, there are plenty of swim-up bars to grab that wine or cocktail!
Embarking on Your Adventure in Wine
As you plan your getaway, think about the memories you want to make. What do you want to do, see, and explore? Fortunately, these destinations offer a wide range of diverse activities.
Trying wines from different regions only expands and enhances your palette. You’ll learn what you love and what you may not enjoy as much. Plus, you might just find your next absolute fave.
As you visit wineries, you’ll learn from expert winemakers and see first hand how wine is crafted. Checking out several locations exposes you to not only new wines, but to new foods, cultures, and experiences.
Don’t forget to pack lightly! You’ll probably need room in your suitcase for all of the amazing wine you need to bring home. Don’t forget a souvenir wine glass or two to commemorate a spectacular trip.
Traveling is all about the journey. So take your time and enjoy your next big wine adventure.