Yes, you can go wine tasting in Temecula with kids or dogs, but every winery sets its own rules. Some welcome both indoors and out, some allow them only on the patio, and some are adults-only. Always check before you go. At Marshall Stuart Fine Wines, kids and dogs are always welcome, indoors and on the patio.
Here’s how to plan a wine country day that works for the whole crew.
Can kids go to wineries in Temecula?
At many Temecula wineries, yes. Kids are generally welcome when they’re with an adult, and California law simply means nobody under 21 can be served alcohol. A few wineries, though, are 21-and-over only, and some limit kids to outdoor areas or certain hours.
The easiest way to know is to check each winery’s website or call ahead. Policies can change, especially around weekends, events, and holidays.
Can you bring your dog wine tasting?
Some Temecula wineries are very dog-friendly, and others don’t allow dogs at all, or only on the patio. Service animals are a different matter and are welcome wherever the law requires.
If a winery’s site doesn’t say, call before you go rather than finding out in the parking lot on a hot day.
Tips for wine tasting with kids
- Plan for snacks. Many tasting rooms, ours included, don’t run a restaurant. Keep snacks and drinks in the car, and check whether a winery allows outside food before bringing it in.
- Bring something to do. A coloring book, a small game, or a tablet with headphones buys you time to enjoy a tasting.
- Look for outdoor space. Picnic tables and patios give kids room to move without disturbing other guests.
- Go earlier in the day. Tasting rooms are usually calmer before the afternoon rush.
- Keep it short. One or two wineries is plenty with little ones.
- Stay close. Wineries have glassware, bottles, and sometimes equipment around. An adult should be with the kids at all times.
Tips for wine tasting with your dog
- Bring a leash and water. A collapsible bowl takes up no room.
- Watch the heat. Temecula summers get hot. Pavement and parked cars can be dangerous for dogs, so plan for shade and never leave a dog in the car.
- Know your dog. A crowded, noisy tasting room isn’t for every dog. If yours gets anxious around strangers or other dogs, a quieter weekday is a better bet.
- Clean up after them, and bring a towel if you might sit on the patio after a dusty walk.
Make it a group effort
Wine tasting with family works best when everyone has something to enjoy. Plan the day around one winery with outdoor space, add a meal nearby, and you’ve got an easy afternoon. And of course, plan a safe ride home: a designated driver, a rideshare, or a tour.
Bring them to Marshall Stuart Fine Wines
Our tasting room at Vail Headquarters was built for exactly this kind of visit:
- Kids and dogs are always welcome, indoors and out on the patio. Alcohol service is 21+ with ID.
- Picnic tables out front give everyone room to spread out.
- Shops and restaurants next door. We don’t run a restaurant on site, but Vail Headquarters has places to eat before or after your tasting.
- Easy parking in the Vail Headquarters lot, a short walk from our door at Ste B.
- Live music most Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. See the events calendar.
- A walk-in tasting is $20 for five tastes. Groups of 9 or more should call ahead.
Check today’s hours and directions on our visit page, and if you’re new to tasting, our guide to what to expect at a Temecula wine tasting covers the basics. We’ll save you a spot on the patio.