If you’re thinking of checking out the Lodi wineries, there are a few things worth knowing before you go. So the day goes as smoothly as possible.
Similar to Napa, Lodi’s wine country is spread out. You’re not walking between wineries; you’re driving, and sometimes it can be a 30-minute haul between stops. No problem, it just means the day requires a little planning instead of winging it.
Here are my recommendations for anyone planning their first trip.
When to Go
Spring or fall. That’s my honest answer. Here’s the why:
Spring ✓
My top pick. The weather is mild, the region is waking up, the flowers are blooming, and being outdoors is enjoyable. The Lodi Wine Festival happens during this time. It’s a one-day soiree of the region’s renowned wine culture. Held at the heart of Lodi, up to 40 wineries pour 200+ varietals under one roof. A wine lover’s dream.
Fall ✓
Also great. Harvest season means the energy at wineries is at its peak, with warm days, cool evenings, and everyone’s in a good mood. Hard to go wrong. Try to plan a trip around the Lodi Grape Festival, which takes place in mid to late September. It’s a four-day event that has brought the Lodi community together for nearly 90 years. You can expect grape and commodity murals, competitive exhibits, carnival rides, and games for the family, plus, of course, wine tasting.
Summer
It gets hot. Upwards of 90°F hot, and if you’re like me, you won’t enjoy it at all. I’m not saying don’t go, but just be prepared. Start as early as possible, always drink water, and prioritize wineries with solid indoor spaces (like Michael David’s tasting room).
Winter
It can be a good time, but it’s very weather-dependent. There are days when it drops into the 40s and gets foggy. A very festive time, and some wineries look fantastic during the holidays (Oak Farm especially), but be ready for the cold and the possibility of outdoor wine tasting. One event that is totally worth it is Lodi’s Wine and Chocolate Festival, which usually happens during Valentine’s weekend.
A few years ago, I went to Michael David in mid-December with a fairly large group. That year, it was extremely cold and foggy. Sadly, we had to do our tasting outside because of our group size. We still had a good time, but that was because of the people, not the conditions.
How Many Wineries Can You Realistically Do?
Three. That’s the number. Most Lodi wineries close between 4 and 5 pm, so if you start around noon, you can comfortably do three stops. Try to squeeze in four, and you’ll either be racing or skipping the parts that make it worth going.
- 12:00 pm — First winery. You’re fresh, take your time.
- ~1:30–2:00 pm — Drive to stop two. Budget up to 30 minutes, depending on your route, and check the map before you go, not in the parking lot.
- 2:00–3:00 pm — Second winery. Drink some water. Grab a snack if they have one.
- ~3:30 pm — Third winery. Wrap up before closing time.
- 5:00 pm+ — Downtown Lodi for dinner. See below.
Getting Around
If you’re driving, be responsible. Pace yourself, eat, drink water, and know your limits. If you’re going with a group, designate a driver or rotate who sits out tastings.
Or skip the logistics entirely. Check out Lodi Wine Trolley, a local company that runs wine tours, private events, and weddings. According to them, it’s one of the most unique and memorable wine tours in Lodi. They offer different theme days: the Taste of Lodi Tour on Saturdays and the Sipping on Sunday Tour on Sundays, as well as private wine tours & group experiences. The vintage-style trolley blends old-school charm with modern comfort and can seat up to 20 passengers.
If you’re planning a group trip, birthday, or bachelorette party, this is the move. Everyone gets to fully enjoy the day without one person stuck as DD, sipping water the whole time.
Where to Eat After
Looking for a place to eat after wine tasting? Head into downtown Lodi. It’s central, walkable, and offers many options. These are some of my go-tos:
- Lodi Beer Company — Casual, great drinks
- Tequileros Cantina — Mexican, lively
- Market Tavern — American, solid across the board
- Papapavlos — Greek, local favorite
- Smack Pie — Pizza, laid-back
Downtown is small enough that you can scope it out on foot in a few minutes. Let the group vote and walk around before you commit.
If you’re ok with wandering away from downtown, I would highly recommend Pietro’s, a locals’ favorite Italian restaurant, or Guantonio’s Wood Fired for delicious pizzas. You seriously can not go wrong with either option, but since they’re very popular, expect a wait if you don’t have reservations.
FAQs for planning your wine tasting day in Lodi
For the most part, no. Lodi is pretty walk-in-friendly, which is one of the things that make it a low-stress alternative to Napa. That said, if you’re rolling up with a group of six or more, call ahead. Don’t be the person who shows up with a bachelorette party and acts surprised when there’s no space.
Napa is a production. Valet parking, $50 tasting fees, influencers in matching sets. Lodi is the opposite — unpretentious, affordable, and genuinely welcoming. The winemakers actually talk to you. You’re not just a number moving through a conveyor belt of pours. It’s wine country without the attitude.
Three. That’s the number. Most wineries close between 4 and 5 pm, and trying to squeeze in a fourth means you’re rushing through the one thing you came to enjoy. Three stops, done right, beats four stops done frantically every time.
Yes, significantly. Tasting fees vary by winery and experience, but you’re not dropping Napa prices here. Some tasting rooms will even waive the fee if you buy a bottle — always worth asking.
If you’re going with a group, yes — just do it. Check out the Lodi Wine Trolley. Everyone gets to actually enjoy the day instead of one person quietly sipping water and resenting everyone else. For solo trips or couples, just pace yourself, drink water, and know your limits.
Think Easter Sunday, not the Met Gala. A little elevated, comfortable, nothing too precious. You might be standing on gravel or a lawn, so leave the stilettos at home. But this isn’t a flip-flops-and-a-tank-top situation either.