Family-Friendly Wineries on the East End

Wineries tend to not be top-of-mind when parents are thinking about family-friendly activities. But with picnic tables, lawn games and gorgeous views for family photos, a day at a Long Island winery can certainly include the kiddos. Below is a roundup of some of the best places, from both the North and South forks, to take your family for some fun, sun and delicious, local vino.
Martha Clara Vineyards
First off, you’ll want to note that Martha Clara Vineyards is owned by the Entenmann family. Yes, we mean the famous baked goods company. Good sign, right? As it turns out, the vineyard is named after the family matriarch, Martha Clara, who invented the brand’s now omnipresent clear box top packaging that allows shoppers to see the dessert they’re buying. Just like baked goods, this vineyard will be a people-pleaser no matter your age. Martha Clara has a farm on-site where kids can feed the animals, and they’ve also got on-going events including “canine and vines” (next one, April 19!), horse and carriage rides, along with private tasting rooms for adults, live music and plenty of sun-filled space dotted with picnic tables. 6025 Sound Avenue, Riverhead, 631-298-0075 marthaclaravineyards.com
Wölffer Estate Vineyard
One of the South Fork’s three vineyards, Wölffer Estate Vineyard’s sprawling property boasts family-friendly live music throughout the season, where kids will enjoy running around the lawn while parents sip. The tasting room is open year-round, and the outdoor wine stand has just reopened for weekends. Grab a bottle of the recently released rosé, a cheese platter for the kiddos, and take in the intoxicating views. Yoga classes, perfect for older teens, will also be on offer this summer. 139 Sagg Road, Sagaponack, 631-537-5106 wolffer.com
Harbes Family Farm and Vineyard
Hayrides, U pick produce (think pumpkins and apples, in season), a farm stand, and plenty of other happenings make this vineyard a family favorite, particularly come harvest time. Enjoy the Barnyard Adventure, with a secret garden hedge maze and musical hayride. Check out Bunnyville, where kids can watch bunnies hop around their homes, bridges and secret boroughs. The wine bar is currently closed, but will reopen in May. 715 Sound Avenue, Mattituck; 631-298-0800 harbesfamilyfarm.com
Bedell Cellars
Set up a blanket, break out the picnic basket, and prepare yourself for a fun day of noshing and tasting. Bedell Cellars’ spacious lawn is perfect for a relaxing afternoon the whole family can enjoy and, for the adults, there’s a tasting room and gift shop. Dogs on leashes are also welcome. 36225 Main Road, Route 25, Cutchogue; 631-734-7537
Lieb Cellars
This palate-pleasing vineyard produces red, white and sparkling wines on the North Fork. In addition to a tasting room, there is also plenty of room for an outdoor picnic. Lieb has two locations on the North Fork—in Cutchogue and Mattituck, both with ample outdoor space for children to enjoy. 13050 Oregon Road, Cutchogue; 35 Cox Neck Rd, Mattituck, 631-734-1100 liebcellars.com
Jamesport Vineyards
Looking to bring your kids into a tasting room? At Jamesport Vineyards, your kids can actually get in on the action and taste mouthwatering grapes and cheese. The vineyard offers verjus, made from unfermented, half-ripe grapes meaning it’s not only perfect for those under 21, but also for any non-drinkers. Live music and an open space where picnicking is encouraged are also on premises. Main Road (Route 25), Jamesport; 631-722-5256
Osprey’s Dominion
In addition to free live music on weekends, Osprey’s Dominion offers three BBQ stations, volleyball, an outside wine bar and 36 picnic tables on their sprawling four-acre lawn. Anyone is welcome to bring their own picnic lunch. 44075 Main Road, Peconic; 631-765-6188 ospreysdominion.com