Grands and Kids United in Napa Adventures
Posted on 04. Mar, 2010 by admin in Local Light
Does anybody know how many grandmothers move to Napa County annually? Never mind. I can assure you there are a bunch of us. And I’m here to tell you it’s a fabulous area in which to entertain our toddlers and their older sibs!
For example, at only 15 months, my granddaughter, Mackenzie defines the corner of Browns Valley and Robinson as Baa-Baa. That’s because just a few blocks to the west are the sheep, goats, pigs and fowl that reside at the Connolly Ranch. It’s one of our favorite strolls. For us it’s enough to call to the animals through the fence and to toss a few bread crumbs across to the ducks and geese. But camps and classes await her as she gets older. It’s a great local asset designed to connect kids with nature through farm-based environmental education programs, according to the web site. (www.connollyranch.org)
Also an adventure for Grands and Kids is Scientopia Discovery Center at 1785B Tanen St. Kenzie loved her first visit, well before her first birthday. But her older cousins (6 and 
had just as much fun. It’s a big-city concept tailored to the not-so-big city of Napa. There’s plenty of action for curious kids, with science lessons learned more by osmosis than through conscious education. Unless, of course, the youngsters join the Reptile Club or attend the special Science Nights. Get a loyalty card and earn a free visit after nine reasonably priced paid visits. The web site alerts us to special dates, such as free days for grandparents and spring break schedules. (www.scientopiadiscoverycenter.com)
Nothing better after such adventures than lunch at The Little Gourmet at 1040 Main St. in downtown Napa. It’s no exaggeration to say that the restaurant specializes in “creatively fun and healthy meals for lunch and dinner.” But the fare for adults is delicious as well. In the future, we hope to take advantage of the cooking and etiquette classes that are geared for youngsters. (www.thelittlegourmetnapa.com)
If you’re like me, we’ll want to keep adding to this list of Napa’s activities for Grands and Kids. Let’s share.
Great article! I live and work in the Napa Valley, but have a friend in Marin who people with kids should be aware of. He is thinking about opening a summer day camp in the Napa area, but for now, check out – http://www.campdoodles.com
Great article – yes, there are so many great activities for everyone in Napa! The beautiful weather and serene landscape makes it one big, amazing outdoor adventure!
The atmosphere is so much more relaxed and the people are kind and gentle…a great place to raise children!
David and Rory, Thanks for the comments. We have other articles in the works – on skateparks, gym classes, mommy & me workouts and, of course, the Napa Train, that make this area a mecca for adults and kids alike!
My kids love scientopia too! People new to Napa should also know about Gymnastics Zone (http://www.napagymnasticszone.com/), where there are great classes that involve gymnastics, songs, bubbles and more! Also Stroller Energy (www.strollerenergy.com)is a fitness class that you do outdoors with your baby and stroller. A great way to stay in shape and not have to get a babysitter.