Kids San Francisco - June 08, 2009

Diggin' the Dirt

Road Trip to Wine Country

Yearning for terroir? Get down-to-earth in Sonoma or Calistoga.

The Lodge at Sonoma (1325 Broadway, Sonoma; 707-931-6600) has spacious cottages, an outdoor pool, and lush gardens. Hit the spa (the concierge will help you hire a sitter), then take the kids poolside for mac ’n’ cheese and fresh fruit. Keep your customers satisfied with a visit to TrainTown (20264 Broadway, Sonoma; 707-938-3912) or head to the village for a romp at Sonoma Plaza Park.

If mud’s the thing, the boho-luxe Indian Springs Resort and Spa (1712 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga; 707-942-4913) is famed for its earthy baths, epic geothermal pool, and breezy bungalows. Soak in the mineral water en famille (the shallow end’s a mere two feet deep), then cool off by the river in Pioneer Park (1308 Cedar Street, Calistoga; 707-942-2838). Finish the day with tacos and mariachi at Pacifico Restaurante (1237 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga; 707-942-4400).

Heart still set on the Five S’s (see, sniff, swirl, sip, savor)? Sterling Vineyards (1111 Dunaweal Lane; 707-942-3300) has a sky tram and Castello di Amorosa Winery (4045 Highway 29; 707-967-6272) has a castle. Either should buy you a tasting.

Whine free.

GO
Harmony Festival
What: A Burning Man-esque fete for minis and grown-ups alike, with eco, kids’, and women’s villages. Plus, musical headliners Matisyahu and Michael Franti & Spearhead.
Why: Groove into your potential.
When: Fri., 1-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: Sonoma County Fairgrounds,1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa.

BUILD
Sand Sculpture Contest
What: A castle and sculpture showdown with prizes for amateur architects of all ages.
Why: There’s a big buildup.
When: Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Robert Crown Memorial State Beach, Westline Dr., at Otis Dr., Alameda (888-327-2757).

WATCH
San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival
What: A monthlong celebration of dance and culture spanning classical Chinese dance and hula kahiko, with half-price Saturday matinees for kids (under 16) and a storytelling finale.
Why: Feets of wonder.
When: Thru June 28. Sat., 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.
Where: Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, 3301 Lyon St., near Bay St. Tix online at cityboxoffice.com or call 415-392-4400.