Where in the world can pet a dolphin, a geyser dodging, flying high in a hot air balloon, Ogle in ostriches, and the tour of a castle – all in one day? Napa Valley, of course.

California Napa Valley is famous for its more than 300 vineyards and wineries, but there is more. It is also an exciting, family friendly destination. Beautiful scenery of the area attracts hikers, cyclists and riders. If your family prefers water sports, the Napa River has cruises, boat hire, and even kayak for the adventurous.

The Napa Valley is a short drive from San Francisco. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom (formerly Marine World) is located near the city of Vallejo. Children (all ages) are charmed by the marine shows with dolphins, seals and killer whales. The games of many amusement park range from 11 to defy gravity roller coasters like Boomerang – going back – to go carts, climbing walls, and water toddler friendly play areas.

Continue to the north and reach the city of American Canyon, gateway to Napa Valley. The city offers affordable housing options and easy access for the County of Napa and Sonoma vineyards. Many wineries offer special events, wine tastings, behind the scenes tours and food packages.

The city of Napa is only 7 miles American Canyon. Along with luxury shops and restaurants, the city is home to many companies in Napa Valley Tour. Travel in Hot air balloon will get you around the world, but do not provide an exhilarating birds eye serene landscape of the wine county. Depending on the tour package, the extras can include a champagne toast or even full breakfast after your flight.

There is much to do in the field also, as it continues northward. Many families turn to the small town Calistoga, where wineries comply geysers.

The "Little Old Faithful Geyser is one of the attractions. Back – way back! – And see how scald hot water shoots over 50 feet into the air every 30 minutes or less.

While the geyser is an impressive display of geothermal activity in the area now the Petrified Forest is a powerful reminder of the volcanic history of violent area. Three million years, a massive volcanic eruption toppled a forest the cedar and covered with a thick layer of ash. The silica-rich ash trees, eventually turned into solid stone. There is a museum and a shaded path where You can see the tree of major excavations.

Safari West Calistoga offers a different type of track – one full of cheetahs, giraffes, zebras and other exotic animals. There is only one animal park, Safari West is a 400-acres dedicated to wildlife education and wildlife preservation. Visitors can take a tour Guided Safari and even spend the night in a luxury safari tent. Be sure to plan ahead: Reservations are required for all trips.

Now, any father who managed all this in one day, I would probably be ready for at least one glass of wine. The Castello di Amorosa is the place. In an impressive castle, the winery offers a relaxing horse visits to vineyards and welcomes families visiting a special area for children to enjoy grape juice and color while parents attend an adults-only wine tasting area.

Of course, nobody could properly experience the Napa Valley in a single day. You can visit the first time only for wine, but soon discover that Napa has something for everyone in your family to enjoy. The area of the beauty and diversity attracts travelers of all ages, encourage many repeat visits.

What to do: Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Safari West Animal Park
Where To Stay: Holiday Inn’s American Canyon hotel

Kayak Fishing on the Sonoma Coast