Kid Friendly Winery Fun

As Portland metro parents, we are pretty stinkin' spoiled. Not every city enjoys as many perks as we do when it comes to play date opportunities in our area (think amazing public parks, splash pads around every corner, libraries galore, kid-friendly coffee houses, eateries, pubs, etc.). But atop the list of my favorite kid-friendly Portland activities proudly stands winery play dates.

"Come again?" you ask.

Yes, you read that correctly...winery play dates.

Most people wouldn't consider a winery an ideal spot for child-related activities. But one aspect that makes wine country in the Willamette Valley so special is that many wineries actually welcome children and family gatherings.

I first learned this fun fact several years ago when I brought my in-laws wine tasting at Cooper Mountain Vineyard. My plan was to keep Fiona, who was around 4 at the time, busy outside while my husband and in-laws enjoyed a flight inside. 

To my great surprise, the employee who poured flights for the wine tasters inside sent my husband out to invite my daughter and me to join the group inside the tasting room. She even shared snacks with Fiona while the adults wine tasted. She explained that Cooper Mountain is a family-friendly winery and they enjoy kids just as much as I do. 

In fact, it turns out Cooper Mountain hosts Neighbors Night every summer, for families and neighbors to enjoy a picnic and live music on their grounds. Children are most welcome if accompanied by an adult over 21 years of age.

Two years ago, my husband and I organized a birthday picnic at Ponzi Historic Estate with my (then) five year old, two couples and their small children. It was a nice day, and we knew we would be able to keep the children active outside. I double checked inside with the winery staff first to make sure that having children and a picnic outside was acceptable. The employee assured me that children are welcome, reiterating how fun it is to see children enjoying the estate with their parents.

Since then, I have picnicked at a number of wineries for birthday celebrations and play dates with friends and family. Some of these wineries include Sokol Blosser, Duck Pond, and - most recently - Stoller Vineyards.

While only visitors 21 and over are permitted inside the tasting room at Stoller, the tasting room opens up to panoramic views of rolling hills and fields of grapevines where minors are permitted.

Cars and trucks: the equivalent of a wine-tasting good times to a 2 year old.

The tasting room opens up to a multitude of tables and chairs

Tables and chairs are set up on the patio just outside the tasting room. Just below the patio, Adirondack chairs provide front row seating overlooking glorious views.

My kind of play date

The best part of all is the tire swing attached to a tree just like when we were kids to keep the wee ones happy.

It kept the mommies happy, too.

Some things to keep in mind about winery play dates: 

- While many wineries are kid-friendly, don't assume they all are. It's wise to call ahead to double check. In my research, I came across Emily Grosvenor's article "Sip and Play: Oregon's Wine Country with Kids." She offers a great list of Willamatte Valley Wineries that welcome families. 

- Some wineries might be okay with children on the premises, but they are not allowed in the tasting room. Planning a flight tasting at a patio table or buying a bottle to enjoy with a picnic outside might be best. 

- Dogs are allowed at many wineries, but it's best to call ahead to make sure that they'll accept your furry children.

- Respect your fellow wine enthusiasts who are there to wine taste in peace and harmony. Keep your children in check and situate yourselves away from other wine tasters if possible. I take toys, bubbles, snacks, and other things to keep my kiddos busy and happy. 

- Know your limits. Don't plan a flight if you know you're better with a half glass of wine. 

So, there you have it: oeniphilia and play dates truly DO go hand-in-hand.