If you’re a wine lover, chances are you have been to Napa Valley or you would like to go someday! After all, there’s a reason Napa Valley is commonly called the wine valley. But the U.S. is filled with cities for wine lovers other than Napa Valley! If you’re looking to visit a less popular destination that still has plenty of wine, here are a few places to consider for your next getaway.
Monticello, Virginia
When you hear the word Monticello, you might think of Thomas Jefferson’s home in Virginia. But did you know that there’s a wine trail of the same name in the area? The Monticello Wine Trail features 40 wineries in the beautiful Virginia countryside and claims to be the birthplace of American wine.
If you’re interested in venturing outside of Monticello, the state of Virginia has over 300 wineries throughout it. No matter which direction you drive, you will more than likely find a winery close by!
Wineries to Visit:
Willcox, Arizona
Three hours south of sunny Phoenix and just one hour east of Tucson is Willcox Wine Country. There are currently 10 wineries in this area—plenty to keep you entertained for a long weekend. There is nothing like sipping a glass of your favorite wine in the desert, with stunning mountains in view. Be sure to plan your visit around one of their two annual wine festivals, one in May and one in October.
Wineries to Visit
Augusta, Missouri
Believe it or not, there’s wine country in Missouri! The town of Augusta has 14 unique wineries, and they have big plans to add more. After all, they claim to be America’s first wine region. The oldest winery in Augusta, Mount Pleasant Winery, was established in 1859. Augusta is an up and coming wine region—visit now before everyone else does!
Wineries to Visit
Traverse City, Michigan
The cherry capital of the world has more than cherries—it has lots of wine, too! Traverse City, MI is home to over 40 wineries, referred to as the Traverse Wine Coast. Participate in a variety of events for wine lovers, and discover your favorite Michigan wine. Don’t forget to try a glass or two of cherry wine; it’s what they’re known for!
Wineries to Visit
Fredericksburg, Texas
Located in central Texas, Fredericksburg has earned a reputation for its many wineries. In fact, there are more than 50 wineries in this town. From pet friendly to family friendly, there’s a winery (or ten!) for you. Wine Road 290 features wineries conveniently located along highway 290. 290 Wine Shuttle makes it easy to explore the wineries along the wine trail, with a hop on, hop off shuttle service that stops at 21 wineries along the route.
Visit in the spring to experience the wildflowers of Texas Hill Country!
Wineries to Visit
If you plan a trip to Fredericksburg, Texas, check out some other fun things you can do while you’re in town. There’s more to this town than wine!
Bucks County, Pennsylvania
Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Pennsylvania is Bucks County, home to its very own wine trail. With seven wineries, this wine trail might be smaller than others, but it won’t disappoint. This wine country is surrounded by historical sites, castles, and museums. Additionally, it’s only an hour away from Philadelphia.
If the Bucks County wineries aren’t enough to keep you busy, you only have to travel a little bit south to find the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail, home to six more wineries and vineyards to explore.
Wineries to Visit
Other Wineries in the U.S.
As of 2023, there are 7,745 wineries in the United States. That’s a lot of wine…and good news for wine connoisseurs! California has the most wineries by far: over 4,000. Next up is Oregon and Washington, both with nearly 800 wineries. No matter where you live or where you’re vacationing, you can turn any destination into a wine tour by looking for local wineries along your route.
So where will your next wine tour take place? Even if you don’t have plans to travel to any of the regions mentioned above in the foreseeable future, there’s a good chance you can find a winery or two wherever you go next. Simply Google “wineries in” wherever you’re going to see what options you have! And if Fredericksburg, Texas is on your radar, we’d love to help you make the most of your time in Texas Wine Country. Book with 290 Wine Shuttle today!