Visiting Temecula- Lodging, Activities, Dining, Wine Tasting- September 2021
VISITING TEMECULA
Temecula Valley is a great place for short and long term vacations. There are plenty of unique stores and restaurants along the 6 block historical Old Town area.
There are many activities in the area besides the wonderful wineries. Some that we recommend include the Temecula ebikes rentals (www.uyswines.com) where you are given a map for self guided tours to a variety of wineries.
Check out Batch Mead where you can sample ciders and fermented honey (aka Mead) www.batchmead.com.
Looking for something unique to do, try the Side Car Wineries Tour. The side car fits 2 guests along with a professional motorcycle driver where together you explore Temecula and drive thru various wineries. www.sidecartoursinc.com
Another popular adventure are the hot air balloon rides, we went on A Grape Escape company ride.
The Tour begins at sunrise where you meet your guide. The balloon basket fits about 10 people. As we guided thru the air we witnessed beautiful views of Temecula below us. After your safe landing we were treated to a champagne toast. www.hotairtours.com
Of course no visit to Temculea is complete without a visit to their popular wineries. The 4 wineries that we visited included Ponte https://www.pontewinery.com
They had multiple tasting areas and is one of the popular wineries to visit, so make your reservation early.
At Wiens Cellars (www.wienscellars.com), we met the winemaker Joe (pictured above) who gave us the history of the winery. They are known for their variety of wines including (crowded blends),
After our side car adventure we went Akash Wineries and had a brief tasting. (www.akashwinery.com).
The most popular winery that we visited was Wilson Creek (www.wilsoncreekwineries.com). They are known for their favorite sparkling wines and also have a nice selection of regular wines. We went there miday Saturday and reservations are a must. There were a variety of wine tasting, dining and special events happening.
There are numerous places to stay including Bed and Breakfasts. We stayed at Home2Suites by Hilton which is conveniently located with friendly service, free breakfast, heated pool, fitness room and free parking.
There are plenty of outstanding restaurant options in Temecula. Two places that we loved were Small Barn and Bolero restaurant at the Europa Village.
Small Barn serves lunch and dinner, with an array of many farm to table ingredients. Some of our favorite dishes included the avocado toast sandwich was was absolutely divine. The owners Dan and Cathy Gibson have been in Temecula 25 yrs but took over right before covid. They had a tough start but the place is amazing and super popular. Not to miss.
We loved the organic beet salad and trout crudo to start. For the main entrees the pan roasted chicken with pistachio basil pesto and organic tomato salad were tasty. We also had the whole sea bass with a tasty fish sauce and the (waygu) ribeye with bone marrow truffle butter and a red wine reduction. Just a wonderful evening. www.smallbarn.org
For Saturday lunch we stopped at Bolero.
We had met Chef Hany Ali on Friday and were inspired to stop by for lunch. This Spanish themed restaurant built with décor brings you back to Spain. Reservations are a must. We started off with their popular Cesar Salad covered with jicima. We also had the Chilean Sea Bass which melted in our mouth. Not to be missed is the Seafood Paella which is their most popular dish. The farm to table cuisine with Spanish influence serves an assortment of tasty foods served tapas style. Chef Hany will oversee the upcoming Italian and French themed restaurants as they are in the works to being built.
Www.europavillage.com/ballero/restaurante
Historic Old Town Temecula
With a backdrop of untouched hillsides that bloom with lilac in spring, vibrant Downtown Old Town Temecula is Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country’s popular, arts-entertainment-shopping-and-dining district. The pedestrian-friendly, historic, 12-block neighborhood melds genuine respect and appreciation for the Old Town Temecula legacy with casual, contemporary, Downtown Temecula style and enthusiasm. Visitors enjoy Downtown Old Town Temecula for its festive special events; relaxed restaurants and upscale bistros; art and entertainment; welcoming wine-tasting rooms; and a collection of unique, specialty stores and boutiques.
Old Town Temecula continually improves and re-imagines itself in new, contemporary ways. Most authentic is the independent spirit that endures and thrives here. Like the historical Old Town facades, recent Old Town structures reflect different architectural styles. This almost eclectic variety of styles is one of the catalysts for Old Town bistros’ and specialty stores’ individual expression and creativity.
The burgeoning Old Town Temecula culinary scene includes a variety of independently owned, eateries with delicious, one-of-a-kind menus; and the Old Town Temecula Tasting Trail with its artisanal food emporiums and wine tasting rooms. Local, artisan food shops like Temecula Olive Oil Company garner an exceptional following for their sustainable practices and quality products. Old Town’s wine tasting rooms are popular for swirling, sniffing, and sipping some of the many award-winning, premium varietal and proprietary blended, wines of Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country.
DESTINATION: OLD TOWN TEMECULA
Visitors find free and convenient parking in the Old Town Temecula Parking Garage at Third Street and Mercedes. Walking is a great way to get to know Old Town; the Old Town district is ideal for exploring on foot (wear comfortable shoes). Stop in at the Temecula Valley Visitors Center adjacent the Old Town Parking Garage for visitor information; answers to many Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country questions; and a free, self-guided, Old Town Temecula Historic Walking Tour map/brochure.
HISTORY
Gateway Arches at the northern and southern entrances to Downtown Old Town Temecula depict themes from Temecula Valley history. In 1859, the first U.S. post office was established in Temecula. Marking Temecula’s permanence and importance, the year ‘1859’ is boldly detailed and centered on each Gateway Arch. This was the era of the Butterfield Stage. In the more than 150 years since, Temecula has seen many influences and several incarnations.
The Temecula town site was established with arrival of the railroad in 1882; those railroad days endured into the 1930s. Today, more than a dozen historical properties dating as far back as the 1890s still exist and have been repurposed and reopened in Downtown Old Town Temecula.
Just as the stagecoaches and railroad had done, new roads in the early 1900s helped to open up Temecula to the outside world. The Inland Highway (the first, paved, two-lane, county road and ancestor of Highway 395) was built through Temecula Valley in 1915. Until 1949 it ran down Front Street where restaurants, gas stations, and motels served those travelling through the Temecula Valley.
Meanwhile, from the 1800s until the 1960s, cattle were the backbone of the Temecula Valley economy with great cattle drives from the backcountry. In 1905, cattle baron Walter Vail began buying vast acreage surrounding the town of Temecula. By 1947, the Vail Ranch included more than 87,500 acres. Walter’s son, Mahlon Vail managed the operation for many years and Temecula’s Old West lifestyle flourished.
In 1964, the Vails announced the sale of their ranch to a consortium of developers who had plans for a semi-urban, pastoral, master-planned community to be known as Rancho California. When the City of Temecula was incorporated in 1989, residents voted to retain the name of the original Native American village and eventual railroad town site.
SPOTS TO STROLL, TASTE, DINE, AND SHOP
Downtown Old Town Temecula offers intriguing diversions, and wonderful, food and wine tasting, dining, and shopping. Looking east up Main Street from the bridge at Pujol, the new California mission-revival style Civic Center and Town Square are an impressive site. Meriting a closer view at the base of Temecula Town Square (and a popular scene for memorable photo opportunities) is the remarkable fountain inspired by the textural design of Luiseño basket artistry.
Also on Main Street at the corner of Old Town Front Street, in the 1905 Welty Building is Temecula Olive Oil Company. The family-owned-and-operated establishment is acclaimed for its sustainably grown, 100% California, 100% extra virgin olive oil. Complimentary olive oil tastings are offered daily.
Down the district’s main thoroughfare (Old Town Front Street), there are several great dining options, Baily’s features fine, California/Continental cuisine. Next door is Devilicious Eatery & Tap Room where they take ordinary food and twist it up to new heights of flavor and ingenuity. One block east, on Second Street is Goat & Vine, rustic food made from scratch in their stone hearth kitchen. Don’t miss delicious desserts just around the corner at Oak Grove Culinary Creations.
One block up, on the east end of Third Street, is Iron Fire Brewing Company. They pour high quality ales and lagers in a fun, hip atmosphere. Back on Old Town Front Street, just a little north is the uber-casual 1909 features flame-grilled burgers and weekend brunches. Just across the street is Be Good Restaurant & Experience for dining and entertainment.
Across the street, down Main Street a bit is Lorimar Loft. This tasting room opened while the winery was under construction years ago. Both locations have a distinct personality which reflects their love for wine and music. On the opposite end of Main Street is a place to relax and unwind, and even picnic at Town Square Park.
Stone Church Brewing is further north on Old Town Front Street. Stop in for their award-winning pale ales and Belgian-Style Tripels. A block up, on Fourth Street, is Le Coffee Shop where authentic croissants, breakfast and lunch are served daily.
Old Town Sweet Shop has fresh fudge, truffles, caramel apples and retro candy as well as its own ice cream shop. Right behind the building is The Gambling Cowboy which features an elegant late-19th-century setting and classic steak-and-seafood menu. A charming historic building is now home to Small Barn, a modern bistro that showcases products grown and produced in the region.
Across the street, Crush & Brew captures the craft beer movement and small winery culture paired with their small bites, burgers, and seafood. Espadin Mezcal + Cocina serves traditional dishes from Mexico and pours agave-based spirits tequila and its smoky counterpart mezcal.
On the corner of Fifth and Old Town Front Street, Texas Lil’s Mesquite Grill, an original ranch-style steakhouse, serves Tex-Mex, BBQ, Ribs, Burgers, Steaks, Fish, and more. Next door, Mad Madeline’s Grill is popular for its award-winning hamburgers. With porch seating, diners can watch the hustle-and-bustle along Old Town Front Street.
Just north, is Bottega Italia, a Caffetteria, Pizzeria, Gelateria, Ristorante, Pinsa Romana and Wine Bar. On the north corner, there is Soro’s Mediterranean Grill. Authentic flavors and dishes make this restaurant a favorite. An eternal champion of Slow Food, and a local advocate for local farmers, ranchers, and food artisans is E.A.T. Marketplace. The casual, friendly, locally foraged eatery and marketplace is popular for breakfast and lunch.
Just beyond Old Town Temecula’s northern gateway arch is Sam Hicks Monument Park, with the “They Passed This Way” monument, a testament to the brave explorers and pioneers who traveled through Temecula in the years as the West was being settled. In honor of their pioneering spirit, dozens of names are etched in the locally quarried, 150-ton, granite memorial.
Temecula Valley History Museum can also be found here. It is an excellent place to explore Temecula’s reverence for the past. Exhibits depict key stories in local history. The museum also provides docent-led walking tours of historic Old Town Temecula for groups of 10 people and more, by advance reservation.
The Downtown Old Town Temecula district includes 60+ individually owned, specialty stores. A favorite destination is charming Temecula Lavender Company featuring locally grown, pure, small-batch, signature products for bath, body, and home. Old Town Spice & Tea Merchants is where recycled 100-year-old barn beams support shelves of fine spice and herb blends, sea salts, and loose teas. The Petal Bar offers a variety of fresh flowers and gift items. Ford & Elm specializes in vintage finds for the home. Nifty Gift features souvenirs and handmade items from local artisans. The Gardener’s Cottage has a wide variety of whimsical garden items and gifts. Just across the river from Old Town is Granny’s Attic with an array of collectibles, antiques, vintage clothing, and one-of-a-kind American furniture dating back to the 1800s.
ART AND ENTERTAINMENT
Of interest to visual art enthusiasts are Old Town Temecula’s Gallery at The MERC and Art Gallery at Temecula Civic Center. Both galleries feature exhibits showcasing the works of local artists on a rotating basis.
Central to Old Town’s entertainment offerings is the 361-seat, Old Town Temecula Community Theater with excellent sightlines and exquisite sound from every seat. The Theater’s quality arts and entertainment include local theatrical productions, concerts that include a variety of genres and dance productions that contemporary to classic ballet.
Adjacent to the Theater, is the historic 1891 Mercantile Building – now The MERC. The club-style performance space has tall nineteenth-century brick walls that make for excellent acoustics. Sunday afternoons showcase classical chamber performances; Thursday evenings notable jazz artists take to the stage; first and third Saturdays of each month feature Country Music ala Temecula Opry style; and the last Sunday evening of each month, Broadway-style Cabaret acts entertain the intimate club’s 50 guests.
Old Town Blues Club features live music performances. Many Old Town restaurants have live music on the weekends.
Temecula is a name derived from the valley’s largest, Native American ancestral village; it has come to mean “place of the sun.” Since its early beginnings the Temecula Valley’s combination of mild climate and beautiful rolling hills has attracted people to share the natural richness of the valley.
There is a secret ingredient that has helped Temecula Valley become Southern California’s Wine County, a Wine Enthusiast Top 10 Wine Destination. It’s in the award-winning wine, to be sure, but it’s also found in every corner of this vibrant valley. It’s a kinship borne of gathering, making and living every drop of life to the fullest.
Temecula Valley is a wine-plus spirited destination inspired by the vine with several distinct pillars: Southern California Wine Country, outdoor recreation and entertainment, small town atmosphere, an emerging and evolving culinary scene, and its community of Makers. The destination is made up of curious mavericks, a behind the scenes tour reveals the source of their contagious energy. Visitors are intrigued by these accomplished and passionate people. It’s how they work together in the fields, tanks and kitchens that is setting them apart.
It doesn’t take long for visitors to unwind and relax. The genuine welcome that is felt is endearing to travelers when they discover this unexpected gem and it always leaves them with a hope to return. Three to five days gives enough time to fill up on discoveries.
Temecula Valley Wine Country is southern California’s largest wine producing region by volume. A collection of nearly 50 wineries – from the homegrown artisan to the luxe and expansive – invite guests to sip their vintages and absorb the experience. Great wines, open spaces and scenic views make it hard to leave. Many wineries offer dining al fresco, live music, and activities to turn a sunny sky into an endless sunset.
Wine grapes have been growing in Temecula Valley longer than most people realize. Wine culture began in Temecula Valley back in 1968 when the first commercial vineyards were planted. Today’s hand-crafted wines are grown from dozens of grape varieties, including well-known favorites like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Chardonnay, as well as offbeat Mediterranean varieties like Sangiovese, Grenache, Tempranillo, and Vermentino.
Temecula Valley has worked extremely hard to distinguish itself as a premier, globally recognized, award-winning wine destination, distinct from any other in California and beyond. When people think of this region, they think of wine country, and all the premium lifestyle attributes that come along with it. Add to that Temecula’s distinctly Southern California atmosphere and laid-back, unpretentious, yet intentional mindset, and you have a one-of-a-kind, vintage SoCal experience.
Outdoor recreation and entertainment can be found throughout the valley. Living life glass full is playing outdoors and Temecula Valley has plenty of options. At sunrise, epically colored hot air balloons rise and glide on golden sunshine and valley breezes. Horseback and cycling adventures through the vineyards keep the adrenaline and adventure flowing. Or explore nature on foot hiking among the oaks below the hawks, around a lake, or on an ecological reserve. Animal lovers can visit an alpaca farm or a small exotic zoo. Splashy pool cabanas and casino tables raise the stakes. As evening settles over buzzing vineyard patios and the streets in Old Town, chords of live music fill the air.
Annual festivals and events make traditions to look forward to like Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival and Temecula Rod Run. There is a reason to raise your glass every season with more than 30 annual events year-round.
From hidden doors to wide open possibilities, Old Town Temecula’s history, art, goods, food and drinks are some of the reasons to spend an entire day taking in the 12-block walking district. Cowboys may not ride here like they used to in the late 1800’s but they left their stories in this spirited small town atmosphere.
Complementing the ever more mature and sophisticated wine scene in Temecula Valley is an emergent foodie landscape with some extremely talented culinary mavericks and the helm. Catering to virtually every taste, the Valley now features a multitude of exquisite cuisine ranging from farm-to-table to ethnic and adventurous. We not only live Glass Full, we live Plate Full as well.
In travel and tourism placemaking, nothing resonates stronger than a vibrant Maker community and ethos. These insider stories are action-oriented invitations and huge motivators to travelers–helping them transition from destination “tasters” to enthusiasts. From burgeoning culinary scene to craft brewing to olive oil alchemists, Temecula Valley has an abundance of these stories.
Options of where to stay are as varied as our experiences including relaxing hideaways and luxurious homes to popular brands and expansive resorts. Everything is a short drive away whether staying in wine country, Old Town, Uptown, or the canyon. Temecula Valley is located approximately 60 minutes from San Diego, Orange County, and Palm Springs, and 90 minutes from Los Angeles.
LOCATION
Casual, picturesque, Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is situated within southwest Riverside County and conveniently located about one hour from San Diego, Orange County and Palm Springs, and 90 minutes from Los Angeles. Each visit to this genuine, inviting destination promises a wide variety of things to experience, enhanced by the sunny, relaxed spirit synonymous with Southern California.
DESTINATION
Three attractions contribute to a wine-plus Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country experience: Downtown Old Town Temecula, Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country, and Pechanga Resort & Casino each have unique characteristics worthy of exploration where shopping, outdoor recreation, tasting, dining, and entertainment are the top things to do. Recognized by Wine Enthusiast Magazine as a 2019 10 Best Wine Travel Destination proves the world is taking notice of this lovely, authentic town located in the center of southern California, U.S.A.
Downtown Old Town Temecula
With a backdrop of untouched hillsides that bloom with lilac in spring, dynamic Downtown Old Town Temecula is Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country’s lively entertainment-dining-shopping district. The vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, hip and historic, 12-block neighborhood melds genuine appreciation for Temecula Valley’s rich history with casual, contemporary Downtown Temecula style.
Visitors enjoy Old Town Temecula for its festive special events, lively nightlife, live entertainment, farm fresh dining options, welcoming wine and brewery tasting rooms, and unique, specialty shops. Historic buildings have been repurposed as restaurants, hotels, museums, and retails shops.
Local, artisan shops like Temecula Olive Oil Company garner an exceptional following for their quality products. Other made-in-Temecula products featured include Temecula Lavender Company and Old Town Spice & Tea Merchants.
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is a beautiful wine region of rolling hills with high mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. Nearly 50 wineries thrive in the diverse appellation that is gaining well-deserved recognition for its quality, premium varietal, and proprietary blended wines.
Visitors from around the world are attracted to Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country by its natural gifts of climate and geography, and they keep returning for the region’s friendly wineries, great food, relaxed and carefree atmosphere. With so many things to do, a three to five-night stay is recommended. Temecula Valley also makes a great hub to see everything in southern California since all major airports, attractions and cities are only about an hour away in each direction.
Pechanga Resort Casino
Pechanga Resort Casino is a AAA Four Diamond resort and one of the largest casinos in the U.S. The spectacular Journey at Pechanga golf course garners highly desirable accolades from top golf publications and is recognized as one of the finest golf courses in California. Pechanga Resort Casino is also recognized as one of Southern California’s premier live venues for concerts and entertainment. The property also features 13 restaurants, 4.5 pool complex, and a luxury spa.
GEOGRAPHY
Just over the Coastal Mountain Range to the west of Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country, is the Pacific Ocean. At the valley’s southwest corner are the hallmark Rainbow Gap and the Santa Margarita Gap, a dramatic canyon formed by the Santa Margarita River. The San Jacinto Mountains and Santa Rosa Mountains border the Valley on the east. To the southeast is Palomar Mountain.
Temecula Valley spans a 32-square mile (51 km) area. Elevations range from approximately 1,175 to 2,600 feet (358 to 792 meters). The region is distinguished by natural, rolling hills with a big, open sky overhead. In winter, the snow-capped peaks of Mount San Jacinto and Palomar Mountain, as well as Mount San Bernardino and Mount San Gorgonio to the north, semi-circle the valley’s panoramic vistas.
CLIMATE AND AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country enjoys welcoming weather year-round, often characterized as a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers, and cool winters with relatively low rainfall. Also significant is the valley’s general weather pattern of morning mist, warm midday sun, cooling afternoon ocean breezes and cooler nights. This tempo of nature lends a pleasing, natural rhythm to any schedule for the day.
The dynamics of onshore-flow bring cool, gentle winds from the coast to Temecula Valley almost daily. The same dynamics also pull cool, moist, ocean air into the valley, most often in summer. These conditions combined help keep summer daytime temperatures lower and air quality better than that of surrounding Southern California areas.
Average Temperatures
Season Average Daytime High Average Nighttime Low
· Spring 74o F / 23o C 49o F / 9o C
March, April, May
· Summer 88o F / 31o C 60o F / 16o C
June, July, August
· Autumn 82o F / 28o C 52o F / 11o C
September, October, November
· Winter 68o F / 20o C 41o F / 5o C
December, January, February
Annual rainfall in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country averages 14 inches/356 millimeters.
HISTORY
Temecula is a name derived from the area’s largest, Native American ancestral village; it is said to mean “place of the sun.” The first travelers to Temecula were Spanish explorers and Franciscan missionaries (1700s and early 1800s), followed by travelers who arrived via the southern Emigrant Trail (beginning in the 1820s), then by Butterfield Stage (1858) followed by the railroads (1882). The first, paved, two-lane road (ancestor of Highway 395) was built through Temecula in 1915.
From the 1800s until the 1960s, cattle were the backbone of the Temecula Valley economy and Temecula’s Old West lifestyle flourished. The mid-1960s saw the purchase of more than 87,500 acres of ranch land, and the launch of a semi-urban, pastoral, master-planned community to be known as Rancho California.
In 1968 and 1969, the first of Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country pioneers had purchased acreage and planted their vineyards; and in 1974, the founding of Callaway Winery marked the beginning of winemaking in Temecula Valley. The area now boasts nearly 50 wineries with thousands of award-winning wines.
VITICULTURE
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is a beautiful wine region of rolling hills with high mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. The 33,000-acre (13,355 hectare) Temecula Valley American Viticulture Area (AVA) is part of the larger, 115,200-acre (46,620 hectare) South Coast AVA, the largest AVA in Southern California. Within the Temecula Valley AVA, 5,185 acres (2,098 hectare) are protected in an agricultural preserve known as the Citrus/Vineyard zone. Within the CV zone, there are approximately 2,530 (1024) planted vineyard acres (hectare).
The region’s vineyard plantings grow at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 feet (427 to 762 meters) above sea level. Soils are granitic, a light sandy loam, that is excellent for growing high-quality grapes. Grapevines thrive in these well-drained soils that also contribute to clean, pure, varietal wine flavors. The valley’s unique microclimate makes for a general pattern of morning mist, warm midday sun, cooling afternoon breezes, and cooler nights. These weather factors combined with the perfect balance of geography and well-drained soils create an ideal environment for growing high-quality wine grapes.
Nearly 50 wineries comprise Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country, a significant and diverse wine region that is gaining well-deserved recognition for its quality, premium varietal and proprietary blended wines. A growing collection of thousands of national and international awards attests to the quality of Temecula Valley vintages.
VISITOR HIGHLIGHTS AND AMENITIES
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country has a variety of activities encouraging visitors to stay at least three nights to experience everything the region has to offer. Each season brings new reasons to visit.
Major Events and Seasonal Fests
· Spring (March, April, May)
Chocolate Decadence & Wine Festival
Temecula Blues Festival
Sushi & Sake Festival
Old Town Temecula Rod Run
Reality Rally
Craft Brew Month
Temeucla Valley Balloon & Wine Festival
· Summer (June, July, August)
Temecula Art & Street Painting Festival
Summer Solstice
Old Town Live
4th of July Parade & Firework Spectacular
MicroBrew Festival & Chili Cook-off
· Fall (September, October, November)
Temecula Valley Wine Month
CRUSH Wine & Culinary Showcase
Old Town Temecula Outdoor Quilt Show
Ralph Love Plein Air Festival
Greek Festival
Peltzer Farms
Big Horse Feed Corn Maze & Harvest Festival
· Winter (December)
Temecula Chilled
Holiday Taste of Old Town
Three open air ice skating rinks
New Year’s Eve Grape Drop
· Winter January-February
Annual Barrel Tasting Celebration
Valentine Romance
Plus: California-Certified Farmers Market every Saturday morning in Old Town, Tuesday morning at Vail Ranch Headquarters, and Wednesday morning at Promenade Temecula.
*Please also see the Event Calendar at VisitTemeculaValley.com.
Outdoor Recreation and Adventures
· Golfing on impressive, pristine courses with clubhouses, restaurants, and spectacular views.
· Hot air balloon sunrise flights over Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country.
· Horseback riding in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country.
· Strolling the Class 1 walking trails adjacent Old Town Front Street.
· Electric bicycling in Temecula Valley Wine Country and Old Town Temecula.
· Hiking within 9,000 acres of nature at the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve.
· Mountain biking on 25-acres of hilly terrain at Vail Lake.
Natural Treasures
· The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve protects unique ecosystems like vernal pools—home to fairy shrimp, found nowhere else on earth. Small songbirds winter in the ancient Engelmann oak woodlands. In spring, the rare bunchgrass prairie hosts native wildflowers.
· The Santa Margarita River is one of the last free-flowing rivers in Southern California, and is widely recognized as an irreplaceable, scenic, ecological treasure. The Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve is located on the upper river. Sycamore, cottonwood, and willow forests are part of a 30-mile, protected, riparian corridor.
· Lake Skinner is nestled in the rolling hills on the edge of wine country. The expansive vistas invite relaxation and outdoor activities, which includes picnicking, family splash pad, hiking, horseback riding, sailing, and fishing.
LODGING
For a full, robust experience, savvy visitors (first-timers and those who return again and again) realize it is much more fun and enjoyable to stay overnight in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country.
Arriving at any of the hotels, inns, resorts, bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals conveniently just off the I-15 freeway puts visitors minutes—even steps—from the most popular attractions. With guest rooms for every budget, visitors enjoy accommodations ranging from luxurious, AAA Four Diamond hospitality to clean, comfortable, friendly, and economical. The variety truly provides lodging for every occasion.
DINING
Throughout Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country, talented chefs and restaurateurs abound. Dining opportunities range from contemporary, white tablecloth to open-air casual. In Downtown Old Town Temecula, independent restaurants, bistros, and coffee houses serve fresh, creative cuisine; classic and authentic-ethnic fare; and robust java. In Temecula Valley Wine Country, the pleasures of food and wine are enjoyed overlooking rolling hills and vineyards; 20 winery restaurants expertly pair premium, award-winning wines with uniquely inspired menus featuring seasonal foods. Pechanga Resort & Casino hosts 13 outstanding places to dine, including four gourmet restaurants.
SHOPPING
Passionate and enthusiastic shoppers know that shopping in casual, picturesque, Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is always fun and familiar, and surprising and new. Retail experiences span from the distinctive, trendy stores and upscale specialty boutiques at Promenade Temecula to the lively and unique Downtown Old Town Temecula shopping experience; from the intriguing winery gift shops of Temecula Valley Wine Country and festive California Certified Farmers’ Markets, to the merchandise of popular and widely recognized national retail stores throughout Temecula.
GETTING HERE AND AROUND
Highways
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is located just off Interstate 15.
· From Orange County, Highway 55 (CA-55) north to Highway 91 (CA-91) east to I-15 south, about 1 hour.
· From Palm Desert, Highway 111 (CA-111) north to Highway 74 (CA-74) to Highway 79 (CA-79), about 1 hour.
· From San Diego, I-15 north, about 1 hour.
· From Los Angeles, Interstate 10 or Highway 60 (I-10 or CA-60) east to I-15 south, about 1 1/2 hours.
· From Pasadena, Interstate 210 (I-210) east to Highway 210 (CA-210) to I-15 south, about 1 1/2 hours.
Airports
Primary airports served by commercial, domestic and international carriers include:
· LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT), about a 45-minute drive.
· John Wayne Airport (SNA), Orange County, about a 1-hour drive.
· Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), about a 1-hour drive.
· San Diego International Airport (SAN), about a 1-hour drive.
· Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about a 1 1/2-hour drive.
Shuttles, Tours, and Transportation
A variety of transportation companies offer transport solutions for groups and individual travelers to, from, and in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country. One of the most popular, carefree ways to experience Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is on a wine tasting tour via mini-coach, shuttle, limousine, or trolley. The tour companies will pick guests up from the hotels for a four to five-hour day of exploring wine country. Reservations are required.
VISITOR INFORMATION
· Official website: VisitTemeculaValley.com
Available online:
o Temecula Valley Visitor Guide
o Temecula Valley Meeting & Event Planning Guide
o Temecula Valley Event Calendar
o Temecula Valley Wine Country Map
· Visit Temecula Valley’s Visitor Center
Open Mondays—Saturdays in Old Town Temecula
28690 Mercedes Street, Suite A, Temecula, CA 92590
Adjacent the Old Town Temecula Parking Garage (parking is free)
Telephone: 951-491-6085, 888-363-2852 (Toll Free)
JOIN US AND FOLLOW US
· “Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country” on Facebook
· @Visit_Temecula on Twitter
· @visittemecula on Instagram
CONTACT US
Visit Temecula Valley
28690 Mercedes Street, Suite A, Temecula, CA 92590
P.O. Box 1676, Temecula, CA 92593
Telephone: 888-363-2852; 951-491-6085
For additional arts and culture events, please see the complete, daily Temecula Valley Events Calendar on www.VisitTemeculaValley.com
Written & Photos by Todd Elliot & Jeff Zimerman