5 Great Low-Cost or Free Activities in Lodi, California

 In fact, many of Lodi’s offerings are either free or close to it. From curated artwork that hangs on trendy gallery walls to romantic outdoor wine tastings set against deep-green vineyards, here are five of Lodi’s can’t-miss activities anyone can afford…including you.

Indulge in a Wine Tasting

If you can’t splurge on a decadent dinner, treat yourself to an intimate wine tasting instead. With more than 85 local wineries, there’s no reason to be picky, so choose a vineyard that sparks your interest. If your trip falls on a weekend, take advantage of a Lodi wine event. From barrel tasting to special dinners, there’s a lot to learn…and drink. If you’re a fan of California Champagne and fine wines, head to Weibel Vineyards. For a quick drink downtown, head to Lodi’s Wine Social. They offer food pairings along with their wines. Craving a drink with a view? Head to Bokisch Vineyards, spread across  acres of vibrant green vineyards.

Gallery Hop

Calling all art connoisseurs. You’re in luck because Lodi offers several free and low-cost cultural experiences. The First Friday Art Hop takes place every month and always draws a crowd. Mix and mingle with local artists, sip fine Lodi wines and munch on gourmet hors d’oeuvres all while viewing new gallery art and listening to live music. In short, it’s a one-stop shop for culture of every kind. Then there’s the Walldog Mural Self-Guided Tour, which takes travelers by some of Downtown Lodi’s most impressive murals. For art classes, shows and workshops, the Lodi Community Art Center and Tony Segale’s Double Dip Gallery are your go-to places!

Take in the Arts at the Hutchins Street Square Performing Arts Theatre

There’s never a dull moment in Lodi, especially where theater’s concerned. Hutchins Street Square  is where you’ll see big-name performers and on-the-rise bands year-round. Come summer, Lodi really heats up with the free concert series Music in the Park. There’s no better place to sit back, relax and revel in the summer sun. If live theater is your performance art of choice, consider purchasing tickets for James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash or watch Despicable Me for free in West Park.

Cycle Through Lodi Wine Country

Thanks to Lodi’s year-round Mediterranean-like climate, cycling through local vineyards never gets old. Trails lead cyclists through stunning scenery—vast vineyards, vibrant orchards and quiet pastures, to name a few. Plus, there are a slew of wineries along the way, many of which feature award-winning wines. Getting started is easy just download trails on the RideWithGPS mobile app and choose your trail. Serious bikers should try the Cosumnes River Preserve with Blossom Road Loop, while foodies will appreciate the Four Wineries and a Cafe trail.

Wander Through Lodi’s Historic Downtown

Lodi Wine Country is certainly an innovative place, but strolling through the historic downtown streets will have you feeling a sense of nostalgia and maybe even a little wanderlust. That said, there have been some significant changes over the years, all with the aim of enhancing the cultural scene. In the late 1990s, the School Street project finished up, resulting in golden sidewalks, kiosks, 30-foot-tall sycamore trees and old-fashioned brick streets. In short, it’s the place to see and be seen.

Plan your Lodi getaway at VisitLodi.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for news and information on upcoming events.