Portland is close to an abundance of amazing wineries that welcome families. That’s right, local and nearby vineyards and tasting rooms are great places for you and your family to watch the wonders of PNW fall and relax and play for a while.
LessFamily owned and operated, this little slice of heaven is located in Central Oregon off of Hwy 97. Nestled between Smith Rock and the Cascade Mountains, the landscape is stunning, making for an idyllic wine-tasting experience. The property has a wide-sweeping lawn area where events are held throughout the year. Lawn games are available for the young ones when they need to get their energy out, and there are delicious snacks—including a wide array of meats and cheeses—to nibble on.
Stoller is truly a family-friendly winery. With broad, green lawns to run and play, an on-site Frisbee golf course for the big kids, a playground for the littles, and even a tire swing, the kids won’t want to go home! And with Stoller’s varieties of crisp, flavorful wines, you won’t want to, either. Try the refreshing stainless steel Chardonnay, or maybe you prefer a dry Rosé. And don’t forget to sample their most famous variety, the Pinot Noir.
The Brooks Winery rose out of tragedy when its owner, Jimi Brooks, passed away unexpectedly, leaving the winery to his son, Pascal, then only 8 years old. Maybe it’s no surprise, then, that the winery is particularly accommodating to families with children. There are various fun activities to keep the kiddos busy while you enjoy your tastings, including cornhole, darts, and a lovely picnic area. While you can’t bring outside food, the winery has a nice selection of snacks and box lunches.
Spend an afternoon sipping wine and hiking with your little outdoor enthusiasts. Located next to the Baskett Slough, a national wildlife refuge, Van Duzer offers and opportunity for you to imbibe on their fruit-forward wines while your kiddos catch a glimpse of the local wildlife including birds and breathtaking butterflies. You can pick up a trail map at their tasting room while you try the pinot noir and pinot gris and then explore the refuge’s many paths.
If you’d really like to take a family trip to Italy, try visiting Alloro Vineyard instead. This inviting villa in the country will make you feel like a welcome house guest. Grab a glass of Pinot or a crisp Chardonnay, and take the kiddos out to stroll among the cypress trees, or take a tour through the vineyards and around the Italian herb garden. The friendly vineyard dog will chase sticks from your littles all afternoon, while you relax and absorb the ambiance rurale.