Winery recommendation with kids

Question

We will be driving from San Franciso to Santa Rosa in August end with two kids under 10 and parents who don't drink. Which would be the best winery to visit considering the views, kids friendly and no seating reservations needed. We would probably not be doing a tasting but will do a snack/lunch at the winery. Cline land Viansa looked beautiful but not sure if they will allow seating if you don't buy wine. Korbel also looked nice with a guided tour and a deli.

Answer

For a visit to Sonoma with kids under 10 and parents who don’t drink, your priorities—views, kid-friendly atmosphere, and no mandatory wine purchase for seating—are important to consider. Sonoma has several wineries that are welcoming to families, even if you skip wine tastings.

Here are some top options:

Viansa Sonoma: This winery is very picturesque with beautiful hilltop views and outdoor picnic areas. Families often bring snacks or enjoy the small bites available. While tastings are the main draw, you can usually enjoy the grounds and seating without purchasing wine. There is plenty of space for kids to explore safely under supervision.
Korbel Champagne Cellars: Known for sparkling wine and beautiful grounds, Korbel is very kid-friendly. They have a guided tour, picnic areas, and a deli where you can buy sandwiches, snacks, and beverages. Kids can walk around the grounds and enjoy the scenery. You don’t need to do a tasting to enjoy the space and picnic areas.
Ledson Winery & Vineyards: While slightly more formal, Ledson has expansive outdoor areas and impressive architecture. Families can picnic outside, and children are welcome to explore the grounds. No reservation is required for outdoor seating.
Sterling Vineyards: While Sterling requires a gondola ride to the hilltop tasting room, the panoramic views are excellent. The grounds are scenic, and families often enjoy bringing snacks for a picnic on the property if you’re not doing a tasting. This can be a fun experience for kids even without wine.

Tips for visiting with kids:

Arrive early to secure picnic seating, especially on weekends in August.
Pack light snacks or pick up deli items available on-site if you don’t plan to purchase wine.
Bring hats, sunscreen, and water for everyone, as many of these wineries have large outdoor spaces.
Check individual winery websites or call ahead if you want to confirm seating rules for non-drinkers, especially at Viansa or Korbel, as policies can change seasonally.

Overall, for a balance of views, kid-friendliness, and accessibility without mandatory tastings, Korbel and Viansa are top recommendations. Both offer picnic-friendly grounds and plenty of space for children to enjoy the outdoors while parents relax.

Winery recommendation with kids

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