Plan a Day Trip from Seattle to Woodinville Wine Country
Are you traveling to Seattle for an event or conference? You may be a corporate event planner looking to add fun activities for your team to participate in before or after the event. Whatever the situation might be, we would be remiss if we didn’t highly recommend a day trip—or a weekend extravaganza—to nearby Woodinville Wine Country.
Nestled just a short drive from the city, Woodinville offers something for everyone—scenic landscapes, world-class wines, and charming experiences. Whether looking for a relaxing day out, a memorable weekend getaway, or the ideal setting for a special event, Woodinville is a prime destination that promises something for everyone.
Woodinville Wine Country: The Perfect Escape from the Busy City
When you are in Seattle for an event or conference of some kind, your days are usually jam-packed. From daytime meetings to evening cocktail hours and receptions, you may feel like you are missing out on everything that Seattle is known for.
That’s why even if your event includes some daytime excursions, we highly recommend tacking on some time before or after your visit to indulge in the splendor of Woodinville Wine Country. Located just a short 33-minute drive from downtown Seattle, Woodinville is the ideal spot for a quick retreat.
Getting there is a treat in and of itself, as you leave the urban hustle behind and wind your way through gorgeous landscapes. As you approach, lush vineyards stretch out before you, offering a serene contrast to the city’s bustling energy. Woodinville’s tranquil, laid-back vibe is perfect for unwinding and recharging, whether strolling through the vineyards, enjoying a leisurely wine tasting, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Wine Tasting Adventures
While you can enjoy the Woodinville area without wine, those tastings are certainly a draw. You’ll find an estimated 130 tasting rooms with wines of all kinds, and you’ll be sure to find one or several that will draw you in. The only problem will be finding a way to get those bottles of wine home with you on the plane (pro tip: opt for shipping)!
Chateau Ste. Michelle is Washington’s oldest and one of its most beloved wineries, offering a rich history alongside its acclaimed wines.The sprawling 118 acre estate offers plenty to explore with beautiful gardens, tasting rooms, and a barreling warehouse. We definitely recommend setting aside some time to enjoy this Woodinville gem, and if you’re here in the summer months be sure to check out their summer concert series. (Fun fact, Chateau Ste. Michelle is the world-leader in Riesling production.)
Columbia Winery is another favorite, known for its diverse selection and inviting atmosphere. If a more modern vibe is more to your liking, Novelty Hill-Januik Winery offers sleek surroundings and a selection of bold reds and crisp whites.Finally, DeLille Cellars offers a beautiful tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy their famed Bordeaux and Rhone-style varietals.
If you’re looking to explore multiple wineries, guided wine tours are an excellent option, as they offer a curated experience where you can sample various wines while learning about the winemaking process from experts, plus the transportation to get you to the various locations with ease.
Dining in Woodinville
Though you’ll want to spend your afternoons taking in the sites and tastes of the local wineries and tasting rooms, there will be a time to call it a day and seek out the best nosh and indulge in great conversation. And just where can you do that?
The team here at Event Experience has some recommendations. Our favorites include The Herbfarm, a renowned restaurant offering a luxurious, multi-course dining experience that celebrates farm-to-table cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with local wines, creating a culinary journey you won’t soon forget.Barking Frog is another fantastic choice. Known for its innovative dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed meal with a glass of Woodinville’s finest. For a more rustic vibe, Hollywood Tavern combines excellent food with a warm, inviting atmosphere—think comfort food with all the enjoyment of fresh local flavors.
If you prefer something a bit more laid-back after a long day, consider picking up gourmet goodies from local delis and enjoying a moonlit picnic in the vineyards or along the lovely Sammamish River.
Unique Experiences Beyond Wine
As we alluded to earlier, there is more to Woodinville than wine. Your perfect day trip might skip the wine altogether, taking you on a hot air balloon ride, kayaking, or biking along the Sammamish River Trail.
If you are an art lover, you can explore local galleries showcasing works from talented regional artists. Are you a music lover? Woodinville won’t disappoint. Enjoy live performances at cozy venues or during seasonal festivals that fill the town with eclectic energy. Woodinville also hosts cultural events yearly, celebrating everything from food to art. If you’re planning a special occasion, Insta-worthy vineyards double as stunning backdrops for weddings, corporate retreats, and private parties.
Finally, if you decide to stay for a night or two, we highly recommend a stay at Willows Lodge. Not only do they have several amenities onsite like a spa and the Barking Frog restaurant, but you can also walk from the lodge to several tasting rooms.
Hosting Your Next Event in Woodinville
Woodinville has venues for any type of event. Think rustic barns to elegant estates surrounded by vineyards—what could be more picturesque than that? When you partner an amazing location with excellent event planning services, catering options that showcase local flavors, and talented vendors, hosting an unforgettable event just outside of Seattle is easy.
So, whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, wedding, or milestone celebration, Woodinville’s stunning setting is sure to provide a unique and memorable experience that will go down in the history books—in all the right ways!
Ready to start planning? Let the team at Event Experience help you create the perfect event in Woodinville. Contact us today to get started!
If you’re looking for more Seattle day trip ideas, check out our list of additional options to enjoy in the Pacific Northwest!
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