YOUR WINE TOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Welcome to Temecula — your new favorite getaway, even if you didn’t know it yet. Tucked between San Diego and Palm Springs, this Southern California wine region punches way above its weight in charm, views, and experiences. Here, vineyard-studded hills roll on forever, the sunsets are straight off a postcard, and life slows to a swirl, sniff, and sip pace.
But don’t let the easygoing vibe fool you — there’s a full buffet of things to do in Temecula beyond the Cabernet. Whether you're after adrenaline or aromatherapy, this place brings the heat. Wander through historic Old Town Temecula, float above the vines on a sunrise balloon ride, catch live music under the stars, or unwind at one of the many spas after conquering a hiking trail.
You’ll discover Temecula attractions that run the gamut from rugged to refined — with stops for craft beer, gourmet eats, and boutique shopping in between. And whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a girls’ getaway, or a family adventure, you’ll find yourself saying “let’s stay just one more day” by the end of your visit. So let’s dig into all the tempting Temecula activities you didn’t know you were missing.
Forget the snobbery and sky-high tasting fees — here, you’ll find down-to-earth hospitality, jaw-dropping scenery, and a laid-back rhythm that lets you savor every sip. Temecula Valley is one of California’s most exciting AVAs (that’s “American Viticultural Area” if you want to impress your sommelier), with over 40 wineries producing everything from bold Syrahs to crisp Vermentinos — earning it a reputation as Southern California’s wine country. And because of the valley’s Mediterranean climate and varied soil, the wines here aren’t just drinkable — they’re delightfully diverse.
Wineries like South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Wilson Creek Winery, and Europa Village are just the start. Want to explore without worrying about maps, parking, or who draws the short straw as designated driver? Book a ride with Temecula wine tours from Grapeline. You’ll get insider access, exclusive discounts, and a curated day of tasting that fits your group’s vibe — from Instagrammable moments to vineyard hideaways only locals know about. Not sure where to begin? Check out our full Temecula wineries guide and start dreaming up your ideal pour itinerary.
Whether you’re a wine newbie or you’ve got a cellar that rivals a Bond villain, you’ll find something new and memorable at every stop. Oh, and did we mention many wineries double as art galleries, music venues, or have their own craft kitchens on-site? Now that’s wine country.
Want something more exclusive? Grapeline also offers private wine tours in Temecula tailored to your pace, preferences, and playlist — no group coordination necessary.
Around here, wine isn’t just a drink — it’s a reason to celebrate. Temecula events are as diverse and delightful as the wines they honor. From intimate pairing dinners to all-out festivals with hot air balloons and live bands, there’s something happening every season that turns a simple visit into a full-blown memory.
One of the crown jewels? The Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival — where you’ll sip rosé under a canopy of glowing balloons that drift into the dusk. There’s also the Barrel Tasting Weekend at the end of January and/or beginning of February, where you’ll sample unfinished wines straight from the barrel and feel like a true insider. If you're planning a special trip or need an unforgettable gift, wine tour gift certificates are a great way to wrap up the experience with a bow.
One day. 11 participating wineries along the
De Portola Wine Trail. Delectable food and featured wines at each stop. Plus, all-day deluxe transportation by
Grapeline. It’s a full-day of food and wine pairing that will entice your taste buds and
bring out your inner-sommelier as you sip and savor your way through Temecula wine
country.
Check out the details of Temecula Valley Winegrower's Annual Event. Taste wines from a
selection of participating wineries, paired with delectable food samplings. Guests will
have the opportunity to enjoy barrel and tank samples and new releases and finished wines
from their choice of 38 wineries!
The
DePortola Wine Trail's
"Big Red Fest" features noshes from 11 local artisan chefs, each offering their specialty.
Every sample is expertly paired with three red wines from each winery. The event
celebrates many of Temecula's top quality red wines of new vintage releases.
Three amazing days of dawn hot air balloon launches, everything balloon glows, wine
tasting, and much more! The festival boasts a rich history of over 35 years, celebrating
the finest assets of Southern California Wine Country: clear skies dotted with hot air
balloon, mild temperatures, and rolling vineyards.
See a complete month-by-month calendar of upcoming events in Temecula Wine Country.
For the scoop on what’s happening now — or what’s bubbling up next — head to the
Grapeline wine tour blog. You’ll find posts on upcoming releases, tips for wine tasting like a pro, exciting Temecula
events worth penciling into your calendar, and more.
Temecula isn’t just about what’s in the glass — it’s about what’s all around it. The Valley’s natural beauty is the ultimate open invitation to go outside and do stuff. Thanks to a climate that practically begs for a picnic and terrain that ranges from vineyard rows to mountain peaks, this place is a playground for outdoor lovers.
Adventurous types can find activities in Temecula like hot air ballooning, horseback riding, or off-the-beaten-path hikes through oak-dotted preserves. Prefer your outdoors a bit more chill? How about yoga in the vineyard, a breezy golf round, or sipping beer flights with vineyard views at a local brewery patio?
You’ll also find scenic overlooks, seasonal markets, and even opportunities for gaming if you want to switch from roulette grapes to the real deal at Pechanga Resort Casino. And for those seeking both movement and mindfulness, a spa afternoon paired with a hike (or mimosa) offers the perfect balance.
The point is, you can design your own version of Temecula’s great outdoors — action-packed, soul-soothing, or somewhere in between. There’s no shortage of fresh-air fun when it comes to outdoor things to do in Temecula.
You can find more detailed information at Visit Temecula Valley.
Nothing says “main character energy” like a sunrise hot air balloon ride over wine country.
Glide above the vineyards as the morning mist lifts and the valley slowly wakes up. Flights
typically take off at dawn (yes, it's early, but so worth it), and popular operators like
A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure
offer both group and private flights. Hot air ballooning is a must for couples,
photographers, and bucket list-chasers — and yes, Champagne is often involved.
If your idea of a good time includes dusting off your hiking boots or cruising a scenic bike
path, Temecula delivers. Local favorites include the
Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, with its wildflowers, ancient oak groves, and postcard-worthy views. You’ll also find
miles of paved and dirt trails winding through parks and natural preserves, perfect for
exploring the local terrain on two feet or two wheels.
Saddle up for a relaxing trot through wine country. Temecula’s ranch-style roots make it an
ideal destination for horseback riding, especially along the quiet vineyard backroads and
country trails. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned rider, local providers like
Wine Country Trails by Horseback
offer guided experiences that’ll leave you saying “yeehaw” with a side of Zinfandel.
With mountain backdrops, perfectly manicured greens, and weather that practically begs for a
polo shirt, golf in Temecula is a hole-in-one.
Temecula Creek Inn
and
Cross Creek Golf Club
are two favorites, each offering challenging layouts, peaceful surroundings, and, you
guessed it, post-round wine options. Best times to hit the links? Spring and fall — before
the midday heat, but with sunshine to spare.
If Temecula Valley is the wine heart, Old Town is the soul. Strolling through these 1800s-era streets is like stepping into a rustic movie set — except with more tacos and wine tastings. From western-style wooden sidewalks to charming boutiques, this historic hub mixes the past and present in all the right ways. Explore Old Town Temecula and make sure it’s a non-negotiable on your trip.
This is also where you’ll find some of the coziest hotels near the action.
If you're planning to visit Temecula Valley, Old Town is also home to galleries, local
artisans, and seasonal exhibits that celebrate the region’s arts and culture scene.
Old Town is packed with mom-and-pop shops like
Temecula Lavender Co, antique treasure troves, and local boutiques selling everything from handcrafted jewelry
to cowboy boots. Foodies, you’re in luck — restaurants like
The Goat & Vine
and
EAT Marketplace
dish out locally sourced eats, while breweries like
Crush & Brew
and
Stone Church Brewing
serve up craft beers with Temecula style.
Wine + spa = the glow-up you didn’t know you needed. Temecula offers a solid selection of
spas where you can trade vineyard dust for eucalyptus steam. Try
Temecula Skin Deep
or
Ritual Beauty
for the full unwind experience. You’ll leave exfoliated, hydrated, and possibly a little
wine-drunk — in the best way.
Old Town Temecula buzzes with energy, especially on weekends. Expect live music, theater performances at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, and seasonal events in Temecula like Temecula Art Walk (March-October) and Temecula Rod Run.
Don’t miss the Saturday morning
Farmers’ Markets
(hello, local honey and sourdough), and festive holiday parades like the iconic
Santa’s Electric Light Parade
that light up the season.
Yes, you can bring the kiddos. Temecula has a playful side too — and it’s more than just the
zoos and ponies (though we’ve got those, too). From farms to lakeside adventures, the Valley
offers a wide range of Temecula activities perfect for all ages.
Family fun? Nailed it. Peltzer Pumpkin Farm is the go-to for pumpkin patches starting in September, pig races, and twinkle-light-covered Christmas villages. They’ve also got petting zoos, food trucks, and seasonal Temecula events that’ll make even your moody teen crack a smile. Pro tip: their ice cream donuts are a problem. A delicious, addictive problem. Check out all of their annual events here.
Want to swap wine for water? Head to Lake Skinner, where fishing, boating, and kayaking are the name of the game. The lake is also picnic-friendly and ideal for nature walks. Bring the family, rent a paddleboard, and let the kids burn off that funnel cake sugar high. You can even book lodging or campsites nearby for a more rugged (but still relaxing) experience.
Timing is everything — and Temecula shines brightest from April to June and September to November. That’s when the weather is perfect, the crowds are manageable, and the grapevines are showing off.
Getting here? Easy. It’s a quick drive from San Diego, Los Angeles, or Palm Springs. Once you arrive, you've got options — from cozy vacation rentals to luxe resorts. Looking for something central? You’ll find plenty of charming hotels near Old Town and Wine Country to match your style and budget. And yes, many of them are spa-adjacent and wine-stocked.
Temecula offers vineyard cottages, charming B&Bs, and full-service resorts — all great options for lodging if you’re planning to visit Temecula Valley for a long weekend or special occasion. Many accommodations offer amenities like winery shuttles, on-site spas, and views that could double as your holiday card backdrop.
Whether you’re into wine or wildlife, booking lodging near top attractions is easy when you visit Temecula Valley — you’ll be close to some of the top things to do in Temecula — including vineyard picnics, scenic drives, and even hot air balloon liftoffs right outside your room.
Want to see your options? Head over to Temecula Wine Country Tours and Hotel Packages.
Spring and fall offer the best weather for outdoor activities and wine tasting — without the
scorching heat or major crowds.
There are DEFINITELY lots of things to do in Temecula. Think hot air ballooning, golfing, spa
days, zoos, live music, and craft beer tasting — Temecula is more than just a pretty bottle.
Don’t miss Old Town Temecula, the local wineries, Santa Rosa Plateau, and a sunrise balloon ride.
You’ll find a wide range of hotels and inns near Old Town, Wine Country, and the greater Temecula Valley region. From boutique inns to resort-style lodging, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check options early if you plan to visit Temecula Valley during a popular event weekend.
100%. Farms, lakes, and family-friendly activities are everywhere — plus quite a few wineries are surprisingly welcoming to the under-21 crowd with open lawns and snacks.
World-class wine, picture-perfect vineyard views, and its small-town-meets-wine-country charm.
Late morning to early afternoon. Beat the crowds and catch those gorgeous midday vineyard views.
Yes — Pechanga Resort Casino offers luxury accommodations, gaming, shows, dining, and spa experiences all in one.
Old Town is packed with breweries and craft beer hangouts.
Definitely — check the Grapeline wine tour blog for
sample Temecula itineraries and travel tips. Or simply give us a call at 951-693-5755, and one of our expert reservationists will help
you plan it all out.
Whether you're here for the vines, the views, or the vibe, there’s no shortage of things to do in Temecula that’ll turn your vacation into something memorable. So plan, pour, play, and pamper— and don’t forget to check for the best hotels near wine country before you arrive.
Temecula’s waiting. And trust us — she looks great in every season.
