This past weekend, we ventured to one of our favorite spots for wine tasting and activities: Lodi, California. Maybe you’ve heard of it, but most people probably haven’t – which is one reason we love it so much. This newer California wine region (don’t worry, there are still 100+ year old vines growing here) has become a hot spot for wine tasting in recent years. Located about 40 miles south of Sacramento, you probably wouldn’t ever find yourself just passing through Lodi. To be honest, it’s not surrounded by much. But once you make it there, it will be well worth your time. These are our favorite things to do in Lodi.
Wine Tasting
Known as a the Zinfandel Capital of the World, Lodi is home to 85+ wineries and produces about 40% of the premium Zinfandel in California. We love Lodi because it feels a bit more intimate and down-to-earth than other wine regions in California. You will find small and large wineries, some brand new and some decades old.
Lodi has been growing winegrapes since the mid-1800s and today is the largest appellation in California with over 110,000 acres in production. Although known for Zinfandels, it is also home to all of California’s leading varieties, and is a leading producer for Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc. Today, Lodi produces over 100 different varieties and offers a diversity of wines.
A few of our favorite wineries include:
2018 Winemaker of the Year, this is a must for anyone visiting Lodi. Beautiful grounds with a relaxing vibe, plus delicious wine.
Every wine is a showstopper here, including their Old Ghost Zinfandel. Pack a picnic and sit outside next to the horses and vineyards.
A welcoming tasting room, we love the staff here! Plus, they have a great variety of wines and a fun band playing outside.
Or use this handy guide to find your perfect winery.
Take a tour
If you want to put your tasting in the hands of the local experts, take a tour!
Natives to Lodi, Sip Shuttle provides a local experience. We used this when we visited a couple of years ago, and it was great for a large group. They are fun, knowledgeable and make it easy to hop on and off at some of the best wineries.
Not into wine? How about some beer tastings?
Although known for its wine, there is no shortage of local breweries. If you want to try something different, or just need a break from drinking wine, we’ve got you covered. Some of our favorites are:
Complete with cornhole and shuffle board, this downtown brewery has a real “backyard party” kind of vibe.
With both an indoor tasting room and a 5,000 square foot outdoor beer garden, plus 36 taps and food, this place is great for everyone in your group.
A restaurant and brewery located in downtown, the beer is better than we expected. We recommend sitting outside on the patio!
Outdoor Activities
The Mokelumne River flows along the edge of town and creates the Lodi Lake Wilderness Area, a network of channels and ponds that attract millions of migratory birds each year, including Sandhill Cranes. Short, scenic walking trails crisscross this nature preserve. In addition, there are an abundance of activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, rafting, tubing, canoeing, fishing and more.
Lodi also attracts cyclists from all over and is a great place to bike. With year-round Mediterranean climate and flat, endless, country roads lined with scenic vineyards and orchards, it’s easy to see why. Plus, pit stops on your bike include wineries and tasting rooms! Visit Lodi provides bike routes that can be printed from their website, downloaded into your Garmin, or accessed through the RideWithGPS app on your phone. They are great biking routes and include stops for wine tasting and food.
If you need to get inside, there is an education, hands-on science museum, the World of Wonders Science Museum, perfect for all ages and located in downtown Lodi.
Want to visit Lodi? Let us plan a trip for you!
We can build you a custom itinerary or you can choose from one of the suggested itineraries below.
Suggested itineraries:
Or add it on to our Napa & Sonoma Wine Country trip if you want the ultimate California Wine vacation.