Planning a family getaway to wine country? Sonoma might not be the first place you think of for kids—but it should be. Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa blends grown-up luxury with family-friendly charm, making it the perfect basecamp for three days of fun, food, and adventure. Here’s how to do it right.

Day 1: Poolside Play, Welcome Dinner & S’mores by the Fire

Morning – Check-in & Settle In, and say “hello” to Chardonnay!
Choose from three family-friendly suite options:

• The Vineyard Suites: These beautifully designed suites feature wood-burning fireplaces, semi-private patios, and are bathed in natural light from elegant French doors. They blend Sonoma’s rustic charm with upscale touches, creating a warm, inviting space to unwind together after a busy day. The luxurious sofabed allows plenty of room for everyone to get a cozy night’s rest.
• Signature One Bedroom Suite: A one-bedroom retreat with a two-person Jacuzzi tub, separate shower, and a living room with sofabed and fireplace—perfect for parents who want to relax in comfort while the kids have room to play.
• Fairmont Two Bedroom Suite: Located in the historic main building, this suite features two rooms each with King beds, a spacious living area with sofabed and wet bar, and separate entrances for each bedroom. It’s ideal for families or friends traveling together who want both space and privacy.

Be sure to say hello to Chardonnay, the resort’s very own Canine Ambassador! Chardonnay can be found most weekdays roaming the grounds of our resort or lounging in the historic lobby, tongue out and ready to greet you with a big Golden smile.

Afternoon – Pool Time & Cabana Chill
Head to the Resort’s year-round heated pool, where kids can dive into fun with noodles, pool toys, and floaties. Rent a cabana for the afternoon and order lunch straight to your lounge chairs. With sun, shade, and snacks covered, it’s the perfect low-effort, high-reward way to ease into vacation mode.

Evening – Welcome Dinner at Santé & S’mores by the Fire
Start your stay with a welcome dinner at Santé, the resort’s signature, French-inspired restaurant. It’s elegant enough for adults but still relaxed and family friendly. Highlights include house made pastas, dry-aged steaks, and heirloom vegetables. There’s also a thoughtful kids’ menu—children under 5 eat free!

After dinner, gather around the outdoor fire pit for s’mores under the stars—a sweet and simple way to start your Sonoma memories.

Day 2: Poolside Breakfast, Safari West & Family Game Night

Morning – Poolside Breakfast on the Santé Patio

Start the day with breakfast on the sunny patio at Santé, overlooking the sparkling pool. Choose from options like buttermilk pancakes with mixed berry compote, smoked salmon bagels, eggs your way, and fresh-squeezed juices. It’s a relaxing yet energizing way to fuel up before the day’s adventure.

Late Morning – Safari West Wildlife Safari

Then it’s off to Safari West, Sonoma’s 400-acre wildlife preserve known as the “Sonoma Serengeti.” Pile into a custom safari Jeep and pretend you’re in Kenya as your guide leads a 2½-hour tour. The first half is an off-road drive through herds of giraffes, zebras, antelope, and more. The second half is on foot—wander through the open-air aviary, walk beside lemurs and monkeys, and meet exotic birds face-to-face.

For lunch, stop by the Savannah Café for African-inspired dishes and local wine country cuisine before heading back to the resort.

Afternoon – Pool, Spa, Kids Club or Relax

Unwind poolside, let the kids splash, or treat yourself to a moment at the spa while everyone recharges. Don’t forget to check out the Mission Kids Lounge, open to kids ages 6–16. This cozy hangout, tucked just off the historic lobby, features movies, board games, and even a PlayStation 5!

Evening – Dinner at 38° North Bar & Game Night in the Historic Lobby

Enjoy dinner at 38° North Bar, where seasonal plates and sharable bites meet a curated wine and cocktail list. The vibe is casual yet refined—great for relaxed family dining. After dinner, settle in by the fire in the resort lobby for a game night. Choose from Monopoly, Scrabble, and other classics for some screen-free bonding time.

Vineyard Tour or Golf Lesson, Trail Rides & Family Movie Night

Morning – Benziger Family Winery Tractor Tram Tour or Golf Lesson at Sonoma Golf Club
Start your last full day with the Bio-Dynamic Tractor Tram Tour at Benziger Family Winery. Climb aboard an open-air tram and tour the scenic vineyards while learning about biodynamic farming—a sustainable method that benefits both the land and the wine. The kids enjoy the ride, adults enjoy the tasting.

Prefer to hit the links? Head to Sonoma Golf Club and partake in personalized lessons with one of their skilled golf professionals. From the driving range to the putting green, you’ll learn new techniques or refine your own within just a couple of hours at this award-winning course.

Afternoon – Lunch at Sonoma Plaza
Head to Sonoma Square, a charming downtown area with parks, boutique shops, and plenty of lunch options. Grab sandwiches, tacos, or wood-fired pizza and let the kids run around the green before heading off to your next activity.

Early Evening – Horseback Riding & Picnic Dinner
In the afternoon, head out with Sonoma Valley Trail Rides for a guided vineyard horseback ride. These easygoing, beginner-friendly trail rides wind through private vineyards with stunning views of the valley. Horses are well-trained and staff are great with families, making this a safe and exciting experience for first timers.

Choose the Vineyard Picnic Ride to finish your ride with a private picnic dinner—think artisan sandwiches, fresh fruit, and a bottle of local wine or sparkling water, served under a tree or by the vines. It’s a peaceful, picturesque finale to your Sonoma adventure.

Evening – In-Room Movie Night
Back at Fairmont Sonoma, wind down with an in-room movie night. Order popcorn, pick a family favorite, and snuggle up on the sofa bed or by the fireplace. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your stay.

Insider Tips

• Book the Suite Family Moments Package to get the third night free, guaranteed 1pm late checkout, complimentary s’mores kits for the fire pit, and spacious family accommodations—everything you need for a stress-free, memory-filled stay.
• Reserve a private poolside cabana early—they book up fast and are worth it for shade, comfy loungers, and table service that makes poolside parenting a breeze. Perfect for naptime breaks or all-day lounging.
• Ask the concierge about local family hikes with redwood views or self-guided scavenger hunts around Sonoma Plaza—they’ll hook you up with custom recs that match your family’s energy level and interests.

Ready to plan your fun-filled family adventure in Sonoma?

Wine country has never been so family friendly. With outdoor adventure, great food, and luxurious comforts that keep kids and parents happy, the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa turns a family getaway into a memory-making experience.