Temecula has developed a reputation in the last couple of decades for being a premier wine tasting destination, but even if you visit for that purpose, you might be surprised by how many other adventures there are to be had. Temecula has a range of activities to supplement your wine tasting trip, making it the perfect location for a mini-getaway. Here are 8 great ideas to get you started:
1. Old Town tasting tour
Tasting tours seem to be Temecula’s specialty, but they’re not limited to wine. The city’s popular Old Town area offers tasting tours at a selection of its restaurants, complete with an overview of Temecula’s Old West heritage, its architectural history, and a guide to cultural hot spots and tourist must-sees.
2. Gem mining
California’s mining heritage doesn’t stop with gold—there are plenty of gem deposits throughout the state, including in Temecula. Oceanview Mine offers the opportunity to dig up gems and keep whatever you find, including tourmalines, kunzites, morganites, and more.
3. Sugarplum Farm
Chances are you never imagined you’d find an exotic animal zoo and artisan chocolatier in the same place, but Sugarplum Farm features both. Get up close and personal with zebras, camels, miniature horses and more, then indulge in a selection of gourmet chocolates, plus honey, farm-fresh eggs, and hand-made soap at the farm store.
4. Alpaca Hacienda
Extend your animal encounter by visiting fluffy alpacas at Alpaca Hacienda, where you can learn all about the gentle creatures and feed them treats from your hand (don’t worry, they don’t have top front teeth so they don’t bite). You can also find a variety of luxurious alpaca fleece items like scarves and hats at the gift shop.
5. Axe throwing
With old-time sports like archery becoming popular again, it’s no surprise that axe throwing is now in demand. A session at SoCal Axe will allow you to test your strength and aim in a fun, competitive atmosphere, and afterward you can toast the champions with a local brew at Wild Barrel Brewing next door.
6. Pechanga Resort & Casino
For a little flash and glamour during your trip to Temecula, stop by Pechanga Resort & Casino. Whether you take on the slots and Blackjack table, or enjoy one of the casino’s live entertainment shows, there’s never a dull moment. You can also relax and refresh after a day of wine tasting at the resort’s new spa, indulging in a massage, manicure, or other beauty treatment.
7. Horseback riding
You can tour Temecula’s gorgeous wine country without the wine with a scenic horseback ride through the rolling hills and vineyards. There are several ranches in the region providing rides, and some vineyards even offer their own horseback tours either in addition to or separate from wine tastings.
8. Hot air balloon ride
For the most breathtaking views of Temecula’s spectacular wine country, you can’t do better than a view from above in a hot air balloon. Whether you choose a sunrise or sunset ride, you’ll get a full view of the region and what makes it so special. And if you’re planning a proposal, popping the question while thousands of feet in the air is about as romantic as it gets.
Hot air balloon rides in Temecula, CA at Compass Balloons
At Compass Balloons, we aim to make your hot air balloon ride an experience to remember. We offer sunset or sunrise rides, plus private ride and group rates, and our pilots are highly knowledgeable about the Temecula wine country. They’ll point out landmarks and share fascinating facts about the area’s history. If you have a special occasion coming up or you’re looking for the perfect gift, give us a call at (760) 704-7407 to book a ride.
