Kids Rule! We’ve rounded up a few of the best things to do with your kids, so get out with the littles and explore American Canyon.
As the gateway to Napa Valley’s renowned wine country, American Canyon might be expected to offer fun only for those 21 and up, but that’s not true. While there are plenty of ways to get world-class sips, the area also has plentiful opportunities for kiddos of all ages to explore.
The flavorful candy beans are made in nearby Fairfield, where the colorful factory is open to the public daily and offers free tours. Great for all ages, the self-guided adventure gives you a bird’s-eye look at daily production alongside 4K videos and interactive displays. While you may get a bit of a sugar rush from ample free samples, save room for a stop at the Jelly Belly Cafe (where guests can enjoy such novelties as jelly bean shaped pizzas). Also it’s a must to pick up some to-go items at Candy Store or Chocolate Shoppe and Fudge Counter.
Regardless of the season, a trip to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom will always bring you back to carefree moments of your own childhood. Your kids can let loose in the iconic park with rides dedicated to the littles and families. For the teenagers — and the kids in all of us — in your life, let them get their thrills on themed coasters, go karts, and theatrical rides, with new ones added every season. There’s also plenty of live entertainment, big stars, and animal showstoppers at every twist and turn, cuisine from around the globe, and a guaranteed exciting day under the sun.
American Canyon’s wetlands and uplands are part of an interconnected watershed that drains into San Francisco Bay. From the Napa River Bay Trail, enjoy bike rides, long walks, and even journey a portion by horse along the largest estuary on the Pacific. Guests of all ages, and tourists and locals alike, have become fans of the Napa River View, where you can find Glass Beach, aptly named after the gorgeous tumbled glass that can be found there. Grab a picnic of your kids’ favorite al fresco snacks and spend an afternoon riding, and collect glass to remind you of the day.
American Canyon is a great jump-off for a day well spent in San Francisco, beckoning with its bounty of world-class museums and interactive attractions. Hop a ferry from neighboring Vallejo for a picturesque ride to the international city. With only an hour’s ride each way, it’s easy to enjoy a day or two in the city, and there are plenty of things for kids to experience. We recommend jumping on board a famed cable car, hitting up the Cable Car Museum, stopping by Pier 39 to see the sea lions and enjoy some West Coast fish, and learn about science, flowers, and more, all in Golden Gate Park.
Let your kids get their climb on at Napa’s Rockzilla! The family-owned and operated facility in Napa offers up walls, boulders, and chimneys to both test skills and promote healthy lifestyles for all ages. Their gym is also open for private parties and events and can be enjoyed by those 5 and up. Rockzilla can work directly with you to plan out the ideal event and can even share additional fridge space for a delicious party spread on site to fuel the fun.
One day may not be enough for you and your kiddos to enjoy the many attractions available at Scandia in Fairfield. Open early to very late, it presents an opportunity to “win” your kids over with something for all ages and interests. The family fun park features two award-winning miniature golf courses, an arcade packed with new and classic games, futuristic laser tag, batting cages, splashing bumper boats, and an Indy car race track. Find your inner competitor and go to town and save room for a stop in the Scandia Cafe for classic fare like soft pretzels, nachos, and even Icees.
Northern California’s more temperate weather allows the Phillip West Aquatic Center here in American Canyon to be open almost year round. Open swim is only available during spring and summer months, but is an inexpensive and easy way for kids to get moving, join their friends in town, and play in the six-lane pool and wading pool. The pool also hosts fantastic seasonal events like 4th of July celebrations and hot dog-filled carnivals, so summers will always be packed with exciting memories.