Putting together a list of our favourite family spots in McLaren Vale was always going to be a difficult job. There are just so many things to see and do, places to visit, food to eat (and a wine or two to taste) It took us two weeks to put this feature together and I think we’re about 10kg heavier in the process.
McLaren Vale is only a 45 minute drive from the city, it’s an easy place to spend a day or even a weekend. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, great food and fab wine.
So what makes a venue pass the KiA Kid Friendly test? We’re talking about big beautiful lawned areas for a picnic or BBQ, great kids menus, play areas, sand pits, friendly staff, high chairs, change tables and even animals!
So take a look at our suggestions for a family friendly day in McLaren Vale and please tag us in any of your photos, we’d love to see where you end up. A BIG thank you goes to local, Becky Hirst for helping us put this list together.
Kids in Adelaide acknowledges the Kaurna people, the Traditional Owners of Country throughout McLaren Vale and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.
Ahh McLaren Vale – you are breathtaking! Surrounded by rolling hills dotted with vineyards (lots and lots of vineyards) it’s no wonder wine tasting tops the list on most McLaren Vale itineraries. But with kids in tow, is it possible? It’s not just possible, pick the right one (like Woodstock here, top of our list) and it can be so much fun for everyone in the family. Woodstock is a beautiful family owned estate in McLaren Vale and it...
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Trilby’s Chocolates has quietly (and deliciously) opened its doors at Blewitt Springs in McLaren Vale, taking up residence in the old Woodstock cellar door, and honestly, it’s exactly what this region has been missing. Founded by master chocolate maker Max Collett, this is a standalone chocolate destination that just happens to sit in one of the most beautiful pockets of the Fleurieu. It’s an easy, family-friendly stop to tack on after...
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If you’re searching for a family-friendly winery in McLaren Vale with incredible views, space for kids to roam, and a memorable food and wine offering, Dandelion Vineyards’ Wonder Room is an absolute standout. Officially opened in late 2023, this stunning newish cellar door blends relaxed luxury with award-winning wines and genuine family-friendly hospitality, making it one of the region’s most impressive spots to visit with kids. We made our...
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Our stay at The Grape Escape was everything a family holiday in McLaren Vale should be, relaxed, picturesque, and perfectly designed for families. Managed by the ever-impressive Sanbis Retreats, this home is made for one or two families looking to spend a few days or a week exploring both McLaren Vale and the wider Fleurieu Peninsula. It’s positioned smack bang on the Shiraz Trail, meaning there’s no traffic, just a peaceful bike path and rows...
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Beach Road Wines is one of those rare places where grown-ups and kids can both completely relax. Set high above McLaren Vale, the views spill out across the vines, and there’s no rush to leave. We settled under the big shady tree, sharing wood-fired pizzas (and mention worthy potatoes and salad) while the breeze carried the scent of the vineyards. The kids darted between bites and playtime, climbing in and out of the charming little “boat”...
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If you’re looking for a fun outdoor adventure the whole family will love (like LOVE), we can’t recommend SA eBikes enough. We recently spent a day riding through McLaren Vale on the Shiraz Trail and beyond, and it was easily one of the best things we did these school holidays. We started at Oxenberry Farm, however the Fleurieu Visitor Centre is usually the main pick-up hub for SA eBikes, and we set off along the Shiraz Trail, a beautiful,...
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We found the best cafe in McLaren Vale! If you’re looking for a café that feels as welcoming to little ones as it is to grownups, Manna McLaren Vale is an absolute gem, found right on the main street of McLaren Vale. It’s super easy to access, and even easier to love, whether you’re strolling through town or driving for a day trip in the region. This is the only cafe you’ll need. We visited for breakfast, what a way to start the day and...
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Family friendly winery, just before you roll into McLaren Vale? Yes Please! Nestled in Willunga as the gateway to the McLaren Vale region, Ortus Wines’ cellar door is a beautiful, laid-back spot that parents and kids instantly adore. Set in a cleverly repurposed fett-block old machinery store, the interior blends industrial warehouse style with polished concrete floors and airy, art-deco light pendants. An oversized cosy fireplace in winter and...
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Looking for family-friendly accommodation in McLaren Vale? Less than an hour from Adelaide, Vale 194 is a gated complex of five luxury holiday homes that tick all the boxes – stylish, spacious, and perfect for families or groups. Tucked just behind McLaren Vale’s Main Street, these beautifully designed villas feel private and peaceful, but you’re still right in the heart of it all. Cafés, wineries, playgrounds and walking trails are...
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This winter school holidays, McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast are making family getaways easy, fun, and full of fresh air. Just a short drive from Adelaide and you’ll find yourself exploring the stunning scenery and experiencing the hospitality that makes this region of S.A one of our favourites. For families who love a mix of adventure and relaxation, the region offers it all. Nature trails to walk or cycle and then refuel at one of the...
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Main and Cherry Cellar Door, located at Chandlers Hill, is a fantastic family-friendly winery just a short drive from Adelaide city. Offering a unique experience for both parents and kids alike, gosh we love a quality outing like this when there is also something special for the kids to eat and a few activities to entertain them. With the most gorgeous panoramic views of vines and the Gulf St Vincent you will be feeling instantly relaxed on...
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There is a lot to get through with this one, but it is totally worth it. For those with slightly older kids, this crew put on some of the most memorable experiences you can well…..experience…..in South Australia. We will cover all their options later, but firstly we have to spend some time talking about our trip down to the incredible Onkaparinga Gorge down on the fringes of McLaren Vale, where some really treasured memories were...
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A garden centre might seem like a weird place to take the kids, but this is no ordinary garden centre. This is a JUNGLE! For a gold coin donation, you can meander through the 35 year old palm forest, go on a jungle animal hunt and visit the Fairy Garden. Grab a clipboard and pen from the shop and GO! You’ll need to look up and down and all around, and remember the animals might have moved since your last visit! This fantastic adventure is fun...
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If you’re looking for a bit of adventure for your older kids (aged 12+) then Southern Adventure Hub is a great option! Approximately 45 minutes drive south of Adelaide, near the McLaren Vale region it’s located in a lovely bush setting, with plenty of shade and places to enjoy a picnic. The main features of this adventure space are the 9 metre 2 sided rock climbing wall and continuous high ropes course, and when we say high ropes,...
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The Fleurieu Arthouse is a real gem with so much on offer including an inspiring gallery/retail space that will get the budding artist inspired to create and you to make a few purchases. Then there are the workshop areas which enable you to see artists creating and an open space where school holiday programs are held.This place has so many little treasures: the kids art classes, trees to climb, the children’s play area and old school phone box...
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This winery goes by two names. The wines are called Fork in the Road wines and the venue as such is called Old Oval Estate and it’s the sweetest family run winery. Old Oval Estate has a lovely home away from home feel and before my visit I had someone tell me it’s their favourite place to take the kids and I can see why. The location and space lend itself to being a great place to head for a platter and catch up with friends and/or family. So...
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A great spot to start your day/weekend/stay in McLaren Vale the Visitor Centre has all the information you need on where to visit, eat and of course sample some wine. It also has a fabulous playground in a beautiful big open grassy space overlooking the vineyards. There’s a cafe onsite where you can grab a something to eat, a coffee or a wine and watch the kids play Find it at 796 Main Rd, McLaren Vale [wpgmza id=”138″...
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