Lodi

Best known for big red wines, particularly old-vine Zinfandels, the American Viticultural Area of Lodi wine country is one of the most diverse grape growing regions in the world—thanks to its seven distinct soils, over 100 varietals are able to be cultivated. Located 100 miles east of San Francisco, this under-the-radar wine region also offers plenty of outdoor recreation, from cycling and golfing to camping and water recreation.

Wineries, Vineyards, and Events in and Near Lodi

Though the range of wines in Lodi has grown, the rich, concentrated New World varietals are still the region’s hallmark, and more than 40 percent of the state’s Zinfandels are produced here. Map out your own tour—stop by Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards for their award-winning Rhône-style wines, or St. Amant Winery for their Marian’s Vineyard Zinfandel. Or spend an afternoon cycling through vineyards (and tasting wine and pie) on the Farmer's Breakfast Ride tour. The city also takes pride in how dog-friendly many of the vintners are: Places such as Michael David Winery, Jeremy Wine Company, and Oak Farm Vineyards are pooch-pampering tasting spots; for even more options, check out the Dog-Friendly Guide to Wine Tasting in Lodi.

Lodi is also a leader when it comes to going green. Upwards of 25,000 acres are certified sustainable, and this is the birthplace of Lodi Rules, the first sustainable wine-growing certification program in the United States. A variety of tasting rooms have sprouted up in recent years; one where visitors can find Lodi Rules pours is LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyards, owned by twin brothers who are fourth-generation wine grape farmers. Visit the LangeTwins to sample a flight, or consider one of their progressive wine-tasting experiences, during which you'll learn about the family's history and responsible farming practices.

Wine & Roses—located on an elegant seven-acre 1902 estate that has been granted recognition as a historical site—makes the ideal home base, for single nights or longer stays thanks to its Signature Suites. In addition to its luxurious accommodations and amenities, the 79-room hotel is adjacent to the Lodi Wine Visitor Center, which offers a rotating selection of varietals from nearly 80 local vintners.

If you need an excuse to celebrate wine, the Lodi Grape Festival, held in September, features crafts, rides, games, and delicious food offerings.

Outdoor Activities in Lodi

The self-proclaimed Zinfandel Capital of the World offers more than just vino. Lodi attracts golfers with its array of top-level courses, and the Lodi Lake Park offers short walking trails and just about every kind of water recreation, including kayaking, paddle-boarding, rafting, canoeing, and fishing. The area is also a great place for cyclists; spend an afternoon cycling through beautiful country roads and more than 23 different bike trails. Lodi also plays host to two bike tours: the Giro D’Vino in the fall, and the Tour Delle Vigne in May. And downtown, the arts scene is often on display at Hutchins Street Square, where a wide variety of concerts, theatre events, and youth activities take place throughout the year (check Lodi’s event calendar).

A more pastoral setting can be found at Micke Grove Park. In 1959, "Duke" Yoshimura asked Mr. William Micke—the philanthropist who donated the land for the park—for permission to build a Japanese tea garden for the Japanese community, to show solidarity with the people of San Joaquin County. The result was this lovely three-acre garden within the larger, 258-acre park. Surround yourself with cherry trees and lanterns while you walk across the bridges above a pond of koi fish.

Looking for the perfect family destination, with the great outdoors as the main attraction? Camping draws many to Jellystone Tower Park Marina & Resort (besides twice-daily appearances by Yogi Bear and friends, that is), but there are also loads of activities to choose from, including mini golf, water-sport rentals, laser tag, arts and crafts, and more. RV sites and cabins—both rustic and luxury options—make for the perfect camping (or glamping) experience mere steps from all the activities. And there’s an added bonus for wildlife lovers: Lodi is also the top viewing destination for migrating sandhill cranes during the months of September to March. Each year thousands of these magnificent birds color the skies as they make their way to Lodi’s wildlife refuges and farmlands, some from nesting grounds as far away as Siberia. See them at the Woodbridge Ecological Reserve and the Cosumnes River Preserve.