Temecula is Southern California’s premier wine-growing region, thanks to a fertile valley protected by gently rolling hills that are home to dozens of wineries. Tasting tours top of the list of things to do in Temecula, and guided tours, e-bikes, and Segways are all creative ways to hop from one estate to another. Many wineries also feature outdoor restaurants that showcase the region’s farm-fresh Californian cuisine, while Old Town Temecula offers a charming stretch of shopping and dining with a rustic, Wild West aesthetic.
The fall is one of the best times to visit Temecula, with Temecula Valley Wine Month lasting the whole month of September and including the wineries’ crush period. The fall also sees temperatures over 80°F (26.5°C)—not nearly as hot as in the summertime, when temperatures can soar over 100°F (38°C). For colder temps, visit in winter, which also is packed with events, such as December's Temecula Chilled and Holiday Taste of Old Town.
If you’re visiting Temecula to experience the valley’s wine country, you'll need access to a vehicle and, preferably, a driver. You can rent a car, hire a rideshare service, or take a guided tour. Most wine-tasting tours offer transportation with driver. For in-town sightseeing, the city offers a free trolley service fOr traveling around Old Town or to Promenade Mall. The Old Town area of the city also is walkable, so it's easy to explore on foot.
If you’re planning a springtime visit in April or May, don’t miss out on a visit to Temecula's Rose Haven Heritage Garden. This 3.4-acre (1.4-hectare) garden blooms beautifully in the late spring, with another big bloom in the cooling-off period at the start of fall. Another outdoor space that locals love is the Temecula Duck Pond and Veterans Memorial, located off Rancho California Road.
