Just when we thought Dolly Parton couldn’t possibly do more to impress us, she goes ahead and launches a dog apparel line. Now, your pets can love the icon as much as you do!
Doggy Parton was born out of Dolly’s love for animals and is a collection of apparel, toys, accessories, and more that any uber fan will want to get their paws on. The best part? It’s all available on Amazon!
While we adore that Dolly’s signature style is headed for our fur babies, we love that a portion of the line’s proceeds will benefit Willa B Farms even more. This organization is a non-profit based in Tennessee that rescues and rehabilitates many different types of animals with “never-ending love.”
For accessories, your pups don’t need to wait until Halloween to strap on a Dolly wig or pink cowgirl hat, or for a special occasion to don her faux pearl dog necklace.
Let’s not forget the toys! Dolly has crafted iconic playthings for your pooch, including a plush high heel and guitar, and a microphone tug-of-war toy.
You can check out the entire Doggy Parton line over on Amazon. The extremely affordable collection ranges from $8 to $20 and comes in multiple sizes so your teeny pups can look just as stylish as your big pooches.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
Picture day is always exciting for kids of all ages—and that includes fur babies. Meet Chico, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office K-9 who took things quite seriously this year when it came to a photo marking his 5th year on the job. Why should kids have all the fun?
“Chico is a valued member of our team and we are always thrilled to see him bring smiles to so many faces,” the Orlando Sheriff’s Department tells Tinybeans. “His human partner and handler on the road, Corporal Robert Lees, wanted Chico to feel extra special during our department’s routine identification photo shoot. While this was Chico’s first time in his handler’s uniform, he is used to wearing his K-9 identification uniform while working to protect and serve the people of Orange County.”
Chico is seven years old (that’s already 35 years of service in dog years). This is what a Very Good Boy looks like.
The German Shepherd, who has been working with the sheriff’s office for about five years, is used to being in front of the camera. A few years ago, he even went a bit formal. “K-9 Chico posed for his new ID badge today,” the Sheriff’s Office wrote on Facebook. “He even wore a tie for the photo.”
Orange County Sheriff's OfficeOrange County Sheriff’s Office
Life hasn’t always been easy for this handsome pup. When his owners noticed he was losing a lot of weight even after being fed “12 cups of food a day,” they took him to the vet and found out he had endocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). This meant he wasn’t digesting food the way that he should. With that information, they were able to treat his condition by giving him the enzymes he lacked in his food. Chico started gaining weight and was able to return to doing what he loves most—being a patrol dog. In fact, as far as his coworkers know, he’s the only working K-9 with EPI on patrol.
“K-9 Chico isn’t afraid to wear his life vest,” the Sheriff’s Office shared in another post along with a photo of the pup, “even to catch bad guys! Here he is deploying from an airboat to catch three bad guys who stole a car. Be like Chico when you’re out on the water. Wear your life vest!!”
Orange County Sheriff’s Office
When Chico isn’t running patrol, he’s also a drug K-9 and spends his nights living with his handler and his family. During his downtime, “he loves Tug-O-War and his Kong,” the Orange County Sheriff’s department said.
Animal lovers are a special breed: They love fiercely and would do anything to protect their fur babies. So when a photo of a dog tied to a fire hydrant with all of her earthly possessions next to her went viral, it raised some eyebrows—and some ire.
According to the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS), Baby Girl, a mixed breed canine, was found at the corner of East Walnut Street and South Clay Street in Green Bay this past week. Along with a backpack, there was also a note from the six-year-old pup’s owner that explained why they could no longer care for her.
KTLA reports that a local resident noticed the dog at the hydrant and sat with her for an hour, waiting for the owner to return. When no one did, WHS came and safely took Baby Girl to the shelter.
Almost immediately, pet owners chimed in on how horrible it was to just abandon a pet, but the WHS released an update that shows another side to the story. In a Facebook post, the organization reveals that the owner was likely heartbroken at the notion of surrendering their precious pooch, but that medical conditions forced their hand.
“First and foremost, we are so sorry you had to part with your best friend. It’s evident just how much you loved her and we can see you did your best while struggling with your own medical complications and challenges of life.”
The message absolutely has us regretting the negative thoughts we were harnessing about leaving such a sweet pet on the side of the road. The fact is, we don’t know how much grief the owner went through when it came to making this decision. The WHS goes on to say, “[W]e see your love in the note you left, pleading for someone to help her when you no longer could. While we’ll never let fees be a barrier and we welcome anonymous surrenders, we see that you did what you thought was best for your beloved pup and we are grateful for your compassion. Rest assured that she’s safe, she’s getting tons of attention from our team, and she’s on track to find her next loving family very soon.”
While Baby Girl waited to find her next forever home, she was serving a mandatory stray hold until she was ready to be adopted. The good news? She was adopted on her first day available!
There are so many ways to take advantage of Atlanta’s long summer days. Hitting the local splash pad with the kids, heading out on a bike odyssey around the city, lounging in one of the many nearby lakes. That’s pretty much what summer in the city is all about. But nothing is more quintessentially summer than packing up a picnic and heading to a park. That’s why we’ve found six scenic spots where you and the kids can picnic and play into the evening. All that’s missing is great friends to join you. Here’s where to plan a perfect picnic and park playdate before summer ends.
Just because it's well known doesn't mean there aren't perfect picnic spots just begging for your blanket and basket to pay them a visit at Piedmont Park. We like the Promenade for its easy proximity to the parking deck and Gardens, but if you want to wander, head towards 10th Street and the Eastern-most side of the lake.
This peaceful picnic spot is located part of the scenic Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Its three miles of trails lead to the ruin of a Civil War-era paper mill, surrounded by a forest. The many streams and ponds you'll find along the way provide stopping points for kids to play. After your picnic, set your kiddos loose on the boulders and waterfalls that you can find along the trails.
You won't believe the beautiful rapids and duck ponds at Sweetwater Creek State Park. Located just west of Atlanta this picnic spot steeped in history is just a short drive away. Take a hike to Civil War-era ruins, and during spring and summer, rent canoes, stand-up paddleboards and boats—after you pack up your picnic, of course.
Adjacent to the Chattahoochee, Gwinnett County’s Rogers Bridge Park in Duluth has running trails, an historic steel bridge and ample greenspace where you can enjoy your picnic spread. A small playground nearby and a dog park make this a place where you can eat and play with your whole family (fur babies welcome). And although the nearby tubing launch point is currently closed, you should still bring your water shoes along so everyone can wade in (not too far) and cool off before heading home.
4291 Rogers Bridge Rd. Duluth, GA Online:duluthga.net
While the entertainment district may not fall into the secluded picnic spot category, families will find both plenty of green space and things to do at this popular gathering spot. During the early evening hours, it's easier to find a spot on the sprawling, grassy lawns. Plus the play factors are pretty much unlimited here. Head to the children's playground, splash in the Rings Fountain or take a quick stroll to a nearby kid favorite, like the Georgia Aquarium, Children's Museum of Atlanta or World of Coca-Cola.
Another one in nearby Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, you'll find lots of charming elements that'll entertain the kids on this picnic outing. With a wooden covered bridge, historic remnants of the Roswell Mill and over five miles of trails through a forest and past waterfalls, Vickery Creek promises plenty to do beyond the basket.
In the Walt Disney movie Lady and the Tramp, there is a famous line from the scrappy and world-wise Tramp about what happens when babies arrive on the scene of a pet-friendly household: “When the baby moves in, the dog moves out.”
While this sentiment may have been true in another place and time, today pets are family. And studies keep proving families benefit from adding pets. Not only can your new baby bundle and fur babies coexist under the same roof, but they will likely become lifelong friends. And just like human friendships do best when started off on the right foot, the same goes for baby and your pet. Here are our five best tips for parents when creating a smooth transition for your new little love and four-legged friend.
1. Go slow.
For pets that were previously used to a kid-free household, a new baby can be a (noisy!) surprise. Allowing your pet to ease into the relationship is best. If possible, introduce your pet to the baby’s scent with an item that has been around the baby in the hospital, such as a blanket or a onesie. Dogs, in particular, use scents to understand the world around them. Giving Fido the opportunity to “get to know” baby through scent will help put your pet at ease when baby comes home.
2. Stay calm. When you do bring baby home for the first time, it is best to allow a friend or family member to hold the baby so you can greet your pet fully. If they are particular energetic, play fetch for a few minutes or have someone take your pup on a walk to help them release some energy before meeting your baby. When it’s time to bring your pet near the baby, allow them to sniff carefully around the baby. Be sure to use calm but firm tones when speaking (high-pitched “baby” talk excites your pet, causing them to become rowdy).
3. Set boundaries. It’s important to be clear about no-go spaces for your pet from the start, including your baby’s swing, crib or car seat. You may need to use a baby gate to create separation. Likewise, when baby becomes mobile, teach them to be respectful of your pet’s zones, such as their sleeping space and feeding area. Pets can become territorial of these spaces, so it may be best to move any bedding and feeding bowls to an area that is inaccessible to baby until your little one is older. This will not only keep baby safe and allow your pet a place to escape when needed, it will cut down on the inevitable mess of baby turning Fido’s food bowls into an impromptu snack or sensory experience.
4. Keep watch. While your four-legged friends may have been your first baby and a part of your family for years, it is important to remember they are being presented with a new situation and may act unpredictably. Never leave your baby unattended with a pet, and keep a close watch for signs of frustration in your animal, including, for dogs, crouching, shaking or a tail tucked between their legs, and, for a cat, an arched back, flattened ears and an erect tail.
5. Enjoy each other.
In those first few weeks and months with baby, your pet will (understandably) take a backseat in your time and attention. Make your pet feel secure and relaxed by keeping a consistent routine with meals and walks. Once you’re feeling comfortable, cuddle up on the couch together with your two loves. Or, when energy allows, take walks with your pup and the stroller. By allowing your kids to grow up watching you enjoy your pet, you’re laying a solid foundation for them to follow in your animal-loving footsteps.
Are you looking for the best kid-friendly patio dining Atlanta has to offer? We’ve got you covered whether you’re looking for fire pits, open green space, or a river view. Keep reading for the best patio seats for outdoor family dining in and around Atlanta’s family-friendly dining spots.
This eclectic American restaurant and bar serve shareable snacks, delectable pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and modern takes on the classics you know and love. The outdoor patio feels protected from the traffic on Howell Mill. For cooler nights, plan to hang out around their gas fire pits after dinner while the kids play in the courtyard. Stocked with 24 taps and a roster of craft beers and cocktails, you’ll also have plenty of after-dinner options.
This Vinings institution sits on the banks of the Chattahoochee; not only does it have patio dining and an outside bar, but it also has a lawn, a river, and usually a duck or two. Canoe’s patio can’t be beaten for special occasions that might take longer than your usual shovel-and-shove restaurant dining experience with toddlers, especially in tow.
4199 Paces Ferry Rd. S.E.
Atlanta Online:canoeatl.com
This Garden Hills institution welcomed 20-somethings and their dogs to their laid-back patio decades ago, and they’re equally as welcoming to the same now 40-somethings and their kids (and fur babies, too). Casual and with a neighborhood feel, the patio has lots of plants that somehow make it enjoyable well into the summer heat. Brunch is delicious here, but expect a wait unless you get up early.
This neighborhood bar in Bolton is a gem with a cute patio and courtyard that opened without much fanfare during the pandemic. However, good grows, and it’s developed a buzzy following of people who ordered online at first but have now become devotees to their patio dining. The food is elevated bar food, so it’s a solid bet for kids who like kid food but don’t mind taking a few risks. Plus, they can run around, so everyone is happy.
If you’re feeling like tacos, this neighborhood drop-in place for lunch, a casual supper or anything in between is hard to beat. The kids’ menu makes your life easy, with not spicy guac, $2 tacos, and plenty of sides that aren’t fries (corn wheels, broccoli, fruit, and cucumbers are our favorites). The adult menu is fresh and delicious and also has a robust adult beverage menu. With three locations in Chastain Park, Inman Park, and West Midtown, you’re never too far from a Bar Taco, which is a good thing.
Hop over a picnic table bench, and enjoy the twinkling patio lights while you wait for your hand-tossed pizza. Topped with fresh ingredients, the in-house made dough is fantastic. This spot is super kid-friendly and usually full of little ones. After your family meal, you can take a quick 3-minute walk to Centennial Olympic Park for some splash pad fun.
300 Marietta St., N.W.
Atlanta Online: maxsatl.com
You and your crew should head straight to the rooftop patio of this bustling seafood house. Named for its somewhat creepy location across from a cemetery, this restaurant offers tons of kid-friendly dishes on and off the kid’s menu. Expect to wait for a table upstairs, but the view is well worth it.
Included among the 21 lives that were lost at the mass shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, were two beloved teachers. One of them was Eva Mireles, a 44-year-old fourth-grade teacher with a resume detailing 17 years of experience. She was also a wife, mother, niece, cousin, and a friend.
Mireles’ school bio gave us a glimpse into the loving human she was: “I love running, hiking, and now you just might see me riding a bike!!” She is survived by family, including her husband, a UCISD officer, daughter Adalynn, and three fur babies.
My daughter’s beautiful teacher was the teacher who was killed in Uvalde, TX. Eva (Ms Mireles) taught Gabby in elementary school. She was a beautiful person & dedicated teacher. She believed in Gabby & went above & beyond to teach her as you can see below. There are no words. pic.twitter.com/qMlVoVEUrY
While news is still emerging about what exactly happened during the shooting, so far it’s been shared that all of the tragedy took place in one classroom. Along with another teacher, Mireles likely served as the beacon of hope and comfort for her students during terrifying moments.
The entire tragedy is shining a light on many things, the responsibilities of teachers among them. As parents, we pass off our children daily to these men and women to learn, but we hardly think about the roles they will play if an active shooter walks onto campus. No doubt, they did not sign up for this.
Yet they remain constants in our children’s lives, teaching them not only multiplication facts and how to conjugate verbs but how to jump on the toilet seats in the bathroom so a bad person doesn’t know they are hiding. They’ll serve as counselors after trauma, as safe spaces, as soft shoulders for a hug or cry.
Teachers are educators at the very least. We already shower them during Teacher Appreciation Week for putting up with our kids as we drop them off after a rough morning at home or teaching them to read when we don’t have the patience. There is no possible way we can thank them enough or show how grateful we are that they literally step in front of danger for our kids––when we never even outright ask them to. They take our children and make them their own, every day.
The world has lost two teachers that it shouldn’t have on what should have been just another school day. While most of us don’t live in Uvalde, there are ways we can support the community.
Robb Elementary has opened a memorial fund for the families of the tragedy. If you would like to donate, you can do so at any First State Bank of Uvalde location or by mailing checks made out to “Robb School Memorial Fund” to 200 E Nopal St. Uvalde, TX 78801. Or you can make Zelle donations to robbschoolmemorialfund@gmail.com.
Spring flowers and the return of the sun are just two reasons to head to one of Seattle’s best picnic spots with the kids. The best part about these parks is that they serve up a side of fun with whatever goodies you’ve got packed in your picnic basket. Playgrounds, walking trails and bike paths are all on the menu at these places. So the next time you need to wear the kids out before bedtime (and the sun is shinning), head to one of these scenic and peaceful spots.
Although locals know this West Seattle park, it's considered a well-kept secret by those in the know. Its grassy lawns and tables are both perfect spots to set up your summer picnic, and the secluded beach will keep the kids busy skipping rocks and keeping track of the containers being loaded and offloaded in the distance. The play area is intriguing to say the least, and it makes a great launching point for a family bike ride. You can ride all the way from Jack Block to Lincoln Park without much interruption, although Salty's is a great stopping point for tots and just-learned riders.
Magnolia is where you'll find this expansive grassy park that offers visitors some of the best views in the city. You can't beat eating lunch (or an early dinner) at this local favorite on a sunny Seattle day. It's another spot where kids can hit the playground and bike or scoot their little hearts out for some post-picnic play. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Nestled in Madrona’s business district, Alvin Larkins Park provides a relaxing spot for the community. It features benches set along a path that winds through the park, and it's landscaped with maple, pine and fir trees. Its expansive grassy area is perfect for picnicking or playing. Don’t forget to bring a frisbee!
Ballard’s Greenwood Park is the epitome of a community park and has recently grown to the size of an entire city block. In addition to plenty of space to picnic, families will enjoy a sports court, P-Patch garden, large trees and wide walkways (bike riding anyone?) when you visit. We're crossing our fingers that the recently added “game garden,” featuring tetherball, ping pong and cornhole will open in the near future, but until then, enjoy the wide open spaces on a warm summer day.
Before you set up a picnic inside the big purple gazebo at Wallingford’s Meridian Park, take the kids to tour the Seattle Tilth Children’s Garden that borders the park. There the kiddos can roam through Sweet Cicely and fennel plants and check out strawberry bushes, too. Talk about healthy eating inspiration!
Westcrest Park is Seattle’s seventh largest park, filled with sprawling spaces and gorgeous views. It provides a flat open meadow, a short walking path and an off-leash dog area that makes this a great spot to bring your fur babies to. Traipse through a vast network of forest trails featuring large Douglas fir, red cedar, maples and madrone trees. Don’t miss the view platform that offers panoramic views of Seattle's downtown skyline. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Baker!
Cedar Park sits adjacent to Cedar Park Elementary and is a favorite of neighborhood families. While the playground is closed, kiddos can bring scooters or balance bikes to ride around the paved walking path that encircles the expansive lawn, great for running and exploring. There's also a basketball court where you can challenge your kids to a game of HORSE or one-on-one. Score!
Over 100 years ago, two families gifted the city of Seattle 2-plus acres of land and Sunset Hill Park was born. Located in west Ballard, Sunset Hill Park sits atop a bluff so the unobstructed views of the Olympics and Puget Sound are magnificent. Walk down the path and take in breathtaking views from new vantage points. Bring a blank for the grass or snag a picnic table to enjoy dinner with a view.
Close to the heart of Columbia City, Genesee Park bumps up against breezy Lake Washington. The green space features a gazebo for picnicking, bike trails and an off-leash dog area, too. This park provides the picture-perfect setting, you provide the fixings for your family picnic here.
When it comes to city parks, we can't get enough of the Maple Leaf Playground and not just because it's got lots of grass for picnicking and running around. You won't want to miss Noah’s Butterfly Garden, a sweet spot at the far end of the park, featuring a gazebo and sandbox. Plus, the loop trail that circles the park is a great spot for tots to bring bikes, trikes and scooters.
Located between Ravenna and Wedgwood, Dahl Playfield is a hidden gem in the northeast pocket of the city. You'll find plenty of room for the kids to roam and the artfully arranged rocks hollowed into half moons are perfect for crawling and sitting. Don't forget the skate park; it's great for those on two or four wheels.
If you’ve started making your list and checking it twice, remember to add your fur babies! Since they’ve been our ride or die throughout the pandemic, our pets deserve some holiday love.
Target has every cat parent covered this year with a slew of new cat scratchers that will keep those kitty claws in check. Coming in at $40 and under, you can even afford to spoil your feline a little more than usual this holiday.
Kid-friendly wineries all over San Diego are open for business and ready to uncork your favorite bottle. As with most hospitality businesses, the last year has been challenging for wineries. There is plenty of pent up demand for a place to spend time with friends and family, and these local tasting rooms are ready to meet it. From bonfire nights and Sunday brunch to animal encounters, ice rinks and playgrounds, these spots help make your vineyard visit a family affair.
Boasting two locations in San Diego County, the Orfilia Vineyard & Winery tops our list. The Vineyard is located in Escondido and is reminiscent of a large, beautiful backyard filled with families having fun and enjoying the sunshine next to a fantastic winery and tasting room. The entire vineyard is gorgeous, but there's a large grass area and picnic tables located in the back as the “Designated Kid Zone.” Parents will appreciate this because the little ones can comfortably run around and act like kids while the grown-ups chat and sip on some vino. The winery encourages families to bring picnics, toys and games to really make a day of it. There's a small refrigerated section in the tasting room that has some food for sale and food trucks are there several times a week. Make sure to plan accordingly and bring plenty of food and water for your family.
The Oceanside tasting room is also family-friendly (that means the whole family, even Fido!) and is located in the heart of downtown just one block from the beach. The modern, beautifully designed tasting room features rustic accents, artwork and a large patio where you can drink, dine and catch up with family and friends. Spending time at either location will make kiddos and adults so happy, you may end up joining the Wine Club so you have an excuse to visit on the regular!
Insider tip: Aside from the picnic area, the rest of the Escondido vineyard is 21 & up, so bring sunscreen and make sure to prepare for a day spent outdoors.
13455 San Pasqual Rd. Escondido, CA 92025 760-738-6500 Online: orfila.com
San Diego’s oldest operating vineyard isn't just a winery, it's more like an old world village. A village that is home to four vineyards, an old barrel room and antique wine-making equipment for visitors to explore. You can wander through artists shops to catch a glimpse of everything from mosaics and oil paintings to botanical soaps. The family-run business is currently taking reservations, so you can plan your day in advance depending on what you have in mind and what time of day you're planning to visit. Choose from their popular Italian style Sunday brunch with bottomless mimosas, to an elevated dinner menu at The Kitchen restaurant. Or opt for small bites/sharing plates and their world famous pizza at the Tasting Room. Whatever you choose, you'll be happy and satisfied at this fun and historic San Diego mainstay.
If you want to take advantage of the wine tasting with chocolate pairings (who doesn’t?), grab a table on the patio and kick back as you listen to live music and your kids get their groove on. Stop by on Friday mornings for the Farmers Market where you’ll find local produce and lots of other families. Whatever time or day you choose to visit Bernardo Winery, you'll find plenty of family-friendly fun.
Insider tip: It’s okay to bring light snacks for young kiddos, but the winery does not allow outside food or drinks for adults. Reservations for brunch are available Sundays, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. This is a very popular spot with limited seating, so make your reservations well in advance.
13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte San Diego, CA 92128 858-487-1866 Online: bernardowinery.com
Supporting owners Mark and Lynn and their winery Domaine Artefact is something everyone can feel good about. They're a family that leads by example and is committed to maintaining sustainable vineyards that meet the highest standards and produce award winning wine. The welcoming ranch is the perfect spot for you and your family to picnic, play a round of cornhole or mega Jenga and enjoy the various animals you'll find lazing around the property. Domaine Artefact is home to plenty of animals including dogs, horses, pigs and chickens. Their 'wine dogs' laze about the tasting room, and it's great to know that Domaine Artefact is pet-friendly; you're encouraged to bring your well-behaved fur-babies along. Animal lovers will also appreciate possible glimpses of all sorts of wildlife on their visit, from roadrunners and meadowlarks, to tree frogs and barn owls.
Good to know: Enjoy live music while you sip wine and visit with friends and family. Click here for their calendar of events.
15404 Highland Valley Rd. Escondido, CA 92025 760-432-8034 Online: domaineartefact.wine
Searching for a winery that is filled with history and charm and is also kid-friendly seven days a week? Look no further than Longshadow Ranch Winery in Temecula Valley. It is a local favorite for its extensive offerings of family-friendly activities. Animal-loving kids get to meet the resident dog, talk to the beautiful horses and even visit a petting zoo while their parents discuss the spicy notes of their favorite wine pick. Bonfire Saturdays have always been a huge hit for families visiting the ranch, and we're happy to announce they are back on after being on hold during the past year! The family-friendly atmosphere is the perfect way to spend a day sipping amazing wine and savoring delicious food while kiddos are entertained and happy. Find the full calendar of events here.
Good to know: Drop in for Sangria Sundays where you can enjoy a fresh batch of Sangria made with their Wildfire Red wine or a Sangria slushie––the perfect drink on a hot summer day.
Insider tip: Outside beverages and coolers are prohibited. Call in advance for table reservations to secure a spot.
"Family is what it's all about" is the motto of this favorite Temecula winery that boasts acres of grass, trees and covered patio tables that keep families coming back. The playground has recently been refurbished and it's open again, as is the fort climbing area. Stop by both before or after you pop open that bottle of wine. Our tip? Bring your camera and capture some shots of your kiddos running around the blooms. The setting is the ideal spot for a photo op.
35960 Rancho California Rd. Temecula, CA 92591 951-699-9463 Online: wilsoncreekwinery.com
Looking for something off the beaten path? Try Cordiano Winery, a quaint vineyard nestled away in the hills of the San Pasqual Valley in Escondido. You'll need to drive down a dirt road filled with tons of twists and turns, but once you arrive you’ll be rewarded for your travel efforts with a breathtaking view. This winery, started by Gerardo and Rosa Cordiano, who fell in love with San Diego in the '90s after visiting from New York, is known for its wood-fired pizza as much as its delicious wine. While waiting for your pizza and bread sticks (you've got to try the bread sticks!), venture over to the bocce sand pit and enjoy a game or two.
Insider tip: Before choosing a bottle, have a seat at the wine tasting table where you can try seven, one-ounce pours for $15.
15732 Highland Valley Rd. Escondido, CA 92025 760-469-9463 Online: cordianowinery.com
Stay cool with the kids at the recently opened, semi-Olympic sized Pool at BOTTAIA Winery, where you'll enjoy stunning views of picturesque rows of grape vines and the Palomar Mountain range. While the Winery itself is for ages 21 and older, the adjacent Pool at BOTTAIA is for all ages. It even has a children’s splash pad! The Pool Café + Cocktail Bar serves BOTTAIA wines (and cocktails) and also offers a special menu for kids.
Good to know: The Pool’s water temperature is maintained at 82 degrees (the temperature of tropical sea water) and the latest Ozone and Ultraviolet technology is used to allow for the lowest legal levels of chlorine.
Bonus: Kids 3 & under receive free admission. You can choose from 30 Italian-style cabanas or opt for a pool chaise. Make your pool reservation here.
35601 Rancho California Rd. Temecula, CA 92591 951-365-3388 Online: bottaiawinery.com
A farm. An ice rink. And a winery. Now you've got the entire family's attention. The Peltzer Farm and Winery offers visitors 25 acres of vineyards, an industrial chic winery and a quaint farm atmosphere. Kiddos will love the century-old tractor collection and getting up close and personal with the free-range chickens. The ice rink will re-open for the winter '21-'22 season and is a perfect spot for memory making and family traditions. Be sure to check out the full calendar of events that they host in their event garden. Psst...seasonal events here are a must. During autumn months, enjoy a six-week festival showcasing a petting zoo, pony rides, pig races and mining for gem activities. Christmas on the Farm is a two day event celebrating the season with a Polar Express Train and ice skating rink.
Good to know: Peltzer offers family-friendly hours Sundays–Thursdays from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. (no tastings offered). If you'd like to take your family and enjoy a wine tasting go on Wine Wednesdays, from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. No children are allowed on Friday and Saturday.
40275 Calle Contento Temecula, CA 92591 Temecula Valley: (Cross Street: Rancho California Road) Online: peltzerwinery.com
Wiens, a favorite among wine aficionados, is more like your typical Temecula winery with large grounds and a tasting room. What makes it family-friendly is its giant lawn and outdoor amphitheater that is set away from the tasting tables. On any given day, you'll find kids of all ages playing in the spacious area while their parents enjoy sipping on the wide variety of wines the vineyard offers. It's also easy to find a quiet spot to park a snoozing baby. The staff is extremely friendly and eager to please. There is limited shade so be sure to load up on sunscreen and bring hats.
Insider tip: Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic to enjoy on the Winery's outdoor patio. The amphitheater is a beautiful backdrop for an alfresco concert and you might just catch a hot air balloon traveling through.
35055 Via Del Ponte Temecula, CA 92592 951-694-9892 Online: wienscellars.com
