What is there to do in Temecula? The real question is, how am I going to fit everything in that this destination has to offer? When considering Temecula, do you think of a weekend of leisure, physical activity, wine tasting, night life or shopping? This city truly can turn an originally planned, boring weekend into a very fun and diverse experience for any preferences.
Conveniently located an hour drive away from San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties, the city of Temecula can provide an amazing weekend for any traveler.
All guests traveling to Temecula should plan to arrive Friday afternoon and begin with visiting one of the many wonderful lodging options. If you’re craving an alternate to traditional hotels, consider the exclusive five-star retreat, Wilson Creek Manor.
This luxury mansion is a Full House Exclusive Retreat. This beautiful property truly is like a home away from home with the addition of escaping the city feel, all while being immersed in the rich culture of wine county!
If your taste buds are desiring a traditional type of hotel, there are a couple of beautiful hotels in wine country that are sure to not only meet, but exceed your standards. After settling in to your weekend “resort”, it should be time for dinner. South Coast Winery’s Vineyard Rose Restaurant offers an upscale, locally-sourced cuisine in a Tuscan-inspired dining room. At this point, it’s approximately 7:00 and it’s the perfect time to head over to Miramonte Winery, conveniently located about 1/8 of a mile away. Here, you will come to discover a comfortable setting with spectacular views and live music, which is offered every Friday night from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. This venue has become popular amongst the locals of Temecula.
Now is when you decide if you want the morning hike to be painful or should you get a good night’s rest?! If you opt to continue your fun night out, be sure to head right down the street for a night cap at “The Bar Next Door”. Another local favorite offering unique, progressive cocktail drinks with a low-key vibe and atmosphere that is perfect for winding down.
After hopefully enjoying a wonderful night’s sleep ( or not 
), you get yourselves out of bed by 6:00 AM to be able to start your nature hike at the famous Ecological Reserve, Santa Rosa Plateau (which is located at the southern end of the Santa Ana Mountains near the city of Murrieta). This hidden gem offers fascinating glimpses into the history and ecosystems of the area. The Reserve offers various trails for the individual who wants to enjoy the beautiful views to the avid hiker looking for a great workout. Bring plenty of water, snacks, a hat and sunscreen! After taking in nature at its best, head back to your resort or hotel for a long, hot shower and maybe a quick power nap by the relaxing pool.
For the second afternoon in the “something for everyone” city, you absolutely don’t want to miss Temecula’s Old Town! A charming, Old West heritage which has been successfully restored, yet still resembles the historic golden west of the 1880’s. History buffs can wander the streets viewing rustic buildings, sidewalks and storefronts while exploring the museums, art galleries, antique dealers, exclusive boutiques, unique dining and if you get there early enough (forfeiting your time at the pool), you will be able to experience the weekly Farmer’s Market which features many local growers fresh produce, and more! You can spend a couple of hours in Old Town or several hours if you decide (and we highly recommend) to create your own “Pub Crawl”. There are many wine bars, restaurants/bars to entertain you into the night. Several places offer live music so you can even fit in a little dancing if you wish.
Now it’s Sunday morning. Surely to be one of your highlights of the weekend is the hot air balloon ride! Temecula is the perfect location for hot air ballooning. As you’re winding down your weekend, you’ll be able to relax as you float over the SoCal countryside. Temecula’s cool morning breezes, consistent weather and open land provide guests the best conditions for hot air balloon rides. From picturesque views of wineries, vineyards and citrus groves to the breathtaking backdrop of mountains covered in snow you are sure to be impressed with the Temecula topography.
Since your balloon ride will end in wine country, you’ll want to make reservations ahead of time for Wilson Creek Winery’s Sunday Bubble Brunch, featuring a wide variety of tasteful entrees, seafood, delectable desserts along with omelet, waffle, and carving stations. The “bubble” title of course means several of our popular sparkling wines! This truly is arguably the best brunch in town!
Finally, it’s time to wine taste. Of course, you can’t come to wine country and not wine taste! While at Wilson Creek Winery, before or after your brunch, be sure to check out the tasting room and try the Reserve Wines, they are spectacular!
If you love red wines especially, make your last stop at Doffo Winery. Known for their family run, Argentine and Italian heritage, you will be highly impressed with their handcrafted style of winemaking. The low key environment on a quaint 12 acres, will be sure to help bring your Temecula weekend to a peaceful conclusion.
Cheers~ Kim DeAvila- Human Resources Director
