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 and exceptional microclimates, more than 135 varietals can be cultivated here, and the region boasts the highest concentration of old vines in California, including heritage plantings of Cinsault and Zinfandel. 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 activities.

Wineries, Vineyards, and Events in and Near Lodi

With 85 wineries, Lodi’s tasting culture remains welcoming and unpretentious—at many estates, you can even meet the winemakers without a reservation. Though the range of wines here 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. Other standouts include Bokisch Vineyards (Spanish varietals like Albariño and Tempranillo with hilltop views), Harney Lane Winery (estate-grown Zinfandel and small-lot releases), Klinker Brick Winery (old-vine Zin and a popular dry rosé), Mettler Family Vineyards (sustainably farmed Cabernet and blends), and The Lucas Winery (organic Chardonnay and classic Lodi 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 being family- and dog-friendly—many wineries welcome dogs, and several offer relaxed outdoor settings ideal for visitors of all ages. Michael David Winery, Jeremy Wine Company, and Oak Farm Vineyards are among the top 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.

The former Wine & Roses—now the Appellation Lodi Wine & Roses Resort & Spa—sits on an elegant seven-acre 1902 estate recognized as a historical site. The 79-room resort offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, and is adjacent to the Lodi Wine Visitor Center, which pours a rotating selection from nearly 80 local vintners. The property is also home to chef Charlie Palmer’s Americana House, a culinary destination celebrating elevated comfort cuisine.

If you need an excuse to celebrate wine, the Lodi Grape Festival, held in September, features crafts, rides, games, and delicious food offerings. Or, if you’d like to immerse yourself in the agricultural history of the region from its Native roots to its evolution into a modern center of industry and agriculture, explore San Joaquin County: 175 Years of Growing Greatness, an exhibit on view right now at the San Joaquin County Historical Museum until June 2026.

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 plus nearly every kind of water recreation—including kayaking, paddle-boarding, canoeing, rafting, and fishing—with direct access to the scenic Mokelumne River. The park also features a peaceful nature trail ideal for birdwatching and quiet escapes into riverside greenery.

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.

Lodi’s Micke Grove Park

A more pastoral setting can be found at Micke Grove Park, home to a historic Japanese tea garden built in 1959 as a symbol of solidarity with San Joaquin County’s Japanese community. Walk among cherry trees, stone lanterns, and koi-filled ponds in this tranquil, three-acre oasis.

Lodi’s Downtown Arts Scene

Lodi’s creative heartbeat is increasingly visible downtown, where a wide variety of concerts, theater events, and youth activities take place throughout the year (check Lodi’s event calendar). Instead of relying on single-venue programming, the community now celebrates the arts through events like the quarterly Art Hop, which brings locals and visitors together to enjoy pop-up galleries and artist showcases. The city’s live outdoor music scene—especially at wineries and breweries—has blossomed, offering concerts under the stars throughout much of the year.

Where to Eat in Lodi

Lodi’s dining scene combines longtime favorites with newer, inventive eateries, offering plenty of ways to refuel between wine tastings. Pietro’s Trattoria, celebrating 40 years in business, remains a local institution known for its homestyle Italian dishes and warm hospitality. Nearby, Market Tavern elevates farm-to-table comfort food with seasonal ingredients. For breakfast or a sweet pick-me-up, Ruby’s Bakery & Café tempts with pastries, scratch-made breads, and hearty morning plates. Fans of wood-fired cooking head to Guantonio’s, where artisan pizzas and rustic Italian entrées pair beautifully with local wines. And for classic diner fare, the Golden Ox Diner serves generous portions of Americana favorites, anchoring Lodi’s food landscape with nostalgic charm.

Christmas in Lodi

During the holidays, Lodi takes on a Hallmark-style charm, with a beloved light parade, carriage rides, and live caroling filling the historic downtown with festive cheer. Visitors can explore twinkling storefronts, sip limited-release holiday wines, or warm up with treats from local cafés and bakeries. The season brings a full calendar of family-friendly events, making it one of the best times of year to experience the town.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park

Families flock to Jellystone Tower Park Marina & Resort, where camping is complemented by mini golf, water-sport rentals, laser tag, arts and crafts, and appearances by Yogi Bear and friends. RV sites and a range of cabins—both rustic and luxury—provide a flexible base camp for outdoor adventures.

Lodi’s Sandhill Cranes

And for wildlife lovers, Lodi offers one of North America’s most spectacular natural displays: the migration of thousands of sandhill cranes from September through March. These impressive birds—some traveling from as far as Siberia—fill the skies with their echoing calls as they arrive to roost in Lodi’s wetlands and farmlands. Prime viewing spots include the Woodbridge Ecological Reserve and the Cosumnes River Preserve.