Old Town Temecula
No first time visit to Temecula would be complete without exploring Old Town. This historic district transports you back to the city’s early days with its Western storefronts and boardwalk-style sidewalks. Today, Old Town brims with locally owned boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, art galleries, and more.
Be sure to browse the Temecula Olive Oil for their ultra-fresh, locally made olive oils, vinegar, and skin care products. Afterward, stop into the Old Town Spice & Tea Merchants to sample global teas and artisanal spices. When you work up an appetite, head to The Public House or Creekside Grille for a meal made with local, seasonal ingredients.
Temecula Valley Wine Country
With over 40 wineries dotting the landscape, the Temecula Valley has earned its reputation as SoCal’s premier wine destination. Sip award-winning vintages as you soak up panoramic views of rolling vineyards backed by granite mountains.
Some top picks for first time visitors include Wilson Creek Winery, known for its charming grounds, tasting cave, and seasonal festivals. South Coast Winery Resort & Spa impresses with its Spanish architecture, concerts, and full-service spa. And Ponte Winery charms with its elegant Mission-style tasting room and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
Pechanga Resort Casino
You don’t have to be a high roller to enjoy Pechanga Resort Casino, conveniently located just minutes from Old Town. Beyond the slots and tables, Pechanga offers so much more with luxury rooms, a full-service spa, championship golf, and a wealth of dining options.
Grab a burger and beer at Kelsey’s, savor sushi and cocktails at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar, or indulge in filet mignon and seafood at The Great Oak Steakhouse. Night owls can dance the night away at Eagle’s Nest Nightclub after their luck at the tables.
Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival
Time your visit to coincide with the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival, held each June. For three days, hot air balloons grace the skies above the vineyards as attendees enjoy wine tastings, craft beer, gourmet food, and live music.
In the evenings, watch the balloons glow against the night sky during the Balloon Glow before ending your day with a free concert under the stars. It’s a magical event the whole family will love.
Temecula Duck Pond
For family fun close to Old Town, head to the Temecula Duck Pond. Let the kids delight in feeding the ducks and geese while you relax along the walking path that encircles the pond. Benches provide places to sit and take in views of the water and the grassy park beyond.
After enjoying time at the Duck Pond, walk across the street to Sam Hicks Monument Park. Here kids can burn off energy at the playground and splash pad while adults admire public art and historic plaques.
Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve
Less than 10 minutes from Old Town lies the stunning Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve. Nine hiking trails traverse grasslands, oak woodlands, and vernal pools teeming with wildlife.
Don’t miss the 1.5 mile Vernal Pool Trail loop to discover these unique seasonal wetlands that burst with wildflowers in spring. Keep your eyes peeled for birdlife, coyotes, mule deer, and even fairy shrimp.
Temecula Valley Museum
For an enjoyable indoor activity, spend some time at the Temecula Valley Museum in Old Town. Exhibits highlight the cultural heritage and history of Temecula and the surrounding region through artifacts, photographs, murals, and more.
Hands-on components like a chuck wagon and settler’s cabin make this museum fun for all ages. And on the third Saturday of each month, the museum hosts special programs like blacksmithing demos, cowboy poetry, and guest lectures.
How to Get Around Temecula
Public Transportation
Temecula has limited public bus service via Riverside Transit Agency. While buses can get you around town, service is infrequent and routes are restricted. Using the local bus system requires advanced planning and patience.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares like Uber and Lyft offer a more convenient way to get around Temecula without a rental car. Well-marked taxi stands in Old Town and at many hotels and attractions make catching a ride easy.
Charter Buses
For larger groups visiting Temecula, charter buses offer the freedom and flexibility to keep your own schedule. Charter buses allow you to travel together, safely and comfortably, between wineries, restaurants, hotels, and area attractions.
Ready to Get Started?
Temecula overflows with possibilities for first time visitors. Outdoor escapes, kid-friendly sites, shopping, dining, and wine tasting adventures await. To explore this charming city to the fullest, rely on the convenience of a charter bus or minicoach from Charter Bus Temecula. Call 951-425-4919 today to start planning your Temecula getaway.