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Famed for its scenery and fine vintages, the wine growing region north of San Francisco has much more than grapes to offer families.

Fifty miles north of San Francisco rests California's quiet and peaceful wine country that centers in the cities of Napa and Sonoma. In addition to the many gastronomical destinations across the entire region, the wine country also offers a multitude of museums and parks that the whole family will enjoy.

Sonoma

Located right on the Sonoma City Square, the Sonoma Cheese Factory (800/535-2855, 2 Spain Street Sonoma, CA 95476) offers a tour through their cheesemaking facilities, and has a deli where you can buy picnic supplies, including the delicious Sonoma Jack cheeses made right on the premises. Visit the shops in the downtown area after spending a quiet afternoon on the city square.

Lake Sonoma is a popular destination for fishers and campers, but also provides an ideal location for a quiet afternoon picnic. You can reserve both the Warms Springs Recreation Area and the Yorty Creek Recreation Area for group picnics, or head for a picnic table that does not require reservations. Warm Springs has several volleyball courts, a playground and a lawn for other sporting activities. Yorty Creek is located near the swimming area. For additional information on parks, beaches and restaurants visit the Sonoma County Park & Recreation website and the Sonoma Valley Visitor’s Bureau.

Napa

Copia: The American Center for Food, Wine and the Arts (707/259-1600, 500 First Street Napa, CA 94559) is a non-profit center dedicated to the discovery and appreciation of wine, food and art. Visit their excellent café, grab a sandwich and sit out in their lush and peaceful gardens for lunch.

Enjoy a relaxing and delicious ride aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train (707/253-2111, 800/427-4124, 1275 McKinstry Street, Napa, CA 94559) during a roundtrip excursion from historic downtown Napa. Choose to dine or eat lunch in a 1947 Pullman Vista Dome Dining Car, fully restored Pullman Dining and Lounge railcars dating from 1915-17, or an open air Silverado car. Check their schedule for Family Fun Nights, when parents can relax with a gourmet dinner, while kids ages 3 to 12 play games, watch movies and enjoy a free meal under the supervision of a professional caregiver in a separate railcar.