By The Wayfarer
Explore the Yolo: Vineyards, Farms & Cultural Gems Tour
When you drive into Winters, California, the speed limit slows—and so do you. Tucked into the western edge of Yolo County, where the farmland rises toward the foothills and the light hangs long in the afternoon, Winters is a small town that quietly earns your attention.
It’s not a place that shouts. It doesn’t need to. With its historic downtown, walkable streets, world-class wine, and access to the natural beauty of Putah Creek and beyond, Winters offers something rare in California: peace without boredom.
Whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend, or just stopping through on your way to Napa or the coast, here’s your local’s guide to Winters, California—plus an immersive driving tour to help you discover everything that surrounds it.
Why Winters?
Because it’s real. While other towns have turned their main streets into theme parks or lost their soul to tourist traffic, Winters has kept its identity: a farming town with deep roots, strong family ties, and a knack for wine, music, and hospitality.
It’s the kind of place where:
- You can buy peaches from the grower
- Sip a glass of wine under a string of lights
- Hear live music on a Tuesday night
- And sleep in a boutique hotel just steps from everything
And it’s all just 30 minutes west of Davis—or 90 from San Francisco.
Start with the Yolo: Vineyards, Farms & Cultural Gems Tour
Before you pull into town, we recommend easing into the experience with the Yolo driving tour. This GPS-guided audio journey starts right outside Winters and leads you through the fields, hills, and small towns that define Yolo County.
You’ll hear stories about:
- The region’s indigenous heritage and water history
- The rise of family vineyards and olive oil farms
- Where to stop for lavender, fruit stands, or a secret photo op
It’s like having a local guide in the passenger seat—minus the small talk.
Things to Do in Winters, California
1. Walk the Downtown (And Don’t Rush It)
Start on Main Street and give yourself time to explore:
- Berryessa Gap Tasting Room – Robust reds and local history in every pour
- Turkovich Family Wines – Known for their Tempranillo and a cheese company next door (yes, really)
- Winters Cheese Company – Charcuterie heaven
- The Buckhorn Vintage – Farmhouse-chic meets California cozy
- Hacienda Boutique – Western wear, denim, and perfect gifts
Don’t miss the Winters Museum if it’s open—it’s tiny but full of charm.
2. Dine Like a Local
For a town of its size, Winters punches way above its culinary weight.
Top picks:
- Preserve – Elevated California cuisine in a relaxed, candlelit space
- Putah Creek Café – Iconic brunch, burgers, and fresh-squeezed juice
- Hooby’s Brewing – Craft beer, dog-friendly patio, and a locals-first vibe
- Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant – Authentic, family-owned, and always busy
Most spots are walkable and great for lingering. Reservations are wise on weekends, especially in the summer.
3. Stroll or Paddle Putah Creek
Running alongside downtown, Putah Creek offers one of the most peaceful public trails in the region. Walk the gravel path, spot birds, or rent a kayak or paddleboard (in season) from nearby outfitters.
The Putah Creek Nature Park connects the town to the land—and makes for a perfect picnic or morning coffee spot.
4. Visit the Winters Community Library & Rotary Park
This may sound like an odd inclusion—but it’s worth it. The library building is beautiful, the gardens are calming, and Rotary Park often hosts concerts, movie nights, and farmers markets.
It’s a great way to see the town’s community spirit in action.
5. Stay Overnight
While Winters is a perfect day trip, it really shines when the crowds thin out and the air cools.
Where to stay:
- Hotel Winters – Boutique luxury right in the center of town, complete with rooftop soaking tubs
- Abbey House Inn – A cozy, beautifully restored Victorian B&B just steps from Main Street
- Airbnbs and Farmstays – Several charming options nearby with views of orchards or creekside settings
Wake up to quiet streets and fresh coffee, and you’ll understand why so many people come for a weekend—and then come back to look at houses.
Bonus Side Trips from Winters
- Lake Berryessa – A short drive up into the hills, with swimming, hiking, and kayaking
- Capay Valley – Wine, olive oil, and lavender in a stunning rural setting
- Woodland – For antique hunting, history, and hearty farm-to-table meals
These all connect beautifully with the Yolo driving tour—just hit “start” and follow the cues.
Final Thoughts
Winters, California is one of those towns that reminds you what travel used to feel like—before lines, before reservations, before souvenir shops took over.
It’s warm. It’s real. And it’s surrounded by a landscape that deserves to be explored at 30 miles per hour with the windows down and no particular rush.
Whether you’re here for the food, the wine, the river, or just the chance to feel something quieter—Winters will deliver.
And when you’re ready to wander further?
Turn on the Yolo: Vineyards, Farms & Cultural Gems tour and keep going.Because in Yolo County, the beauty doesn’t stop at the edge of town.
It starts when you let the road lead you.
by xotatech.com