Food

A Family Day in Lodi

This Guest blog was written by Ashley Newell, a public figure whose work can be accessed here on her website, or on her Instagram feed here.

While Lodi is known for the amazing wine scene it boasts, there is so much to do beyond wine tasting! There are parks, museums, historic tours, a quaint downtown and much more. Lodi is a perfect place to take your family on a fun day of outings. We visited on a crisp December day so we opted for indoor activities. Here’s a look into our day:


First stop: Golden Ox Restaurant

Golden Ox is the perfect place to take a family! The diner is causal and has a train theme. There is a train that chugs along the tracks near the ceiling of the restaurant which is a big hit with the little ones. There are display cases of trains throughout the location and even train salt and pepper shakers on the tables.

One of the best thing about Golden Ox (especially for parents of picky eaters like me) is that they offer both a kids menu for breakfast and lunch/dinner items. Breakfast is served all day everyday! They have a family friendly menu including burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, etc… plus there is a large dessert selection. The staff is very warm and welcoming to the children and adults alike.


Stop 2: World of Wonders Science Museum

I have children who vary in ages from early elementary school to middle school so finding an activity they all enjoy can be challenging. The World of Wonders Science Museum offers just that! My youngest was able to dart around from bubbles building to games while my older two settled into a few more niche activities. My middle son spent a chunk of time at the Stop Motion Animation Station making several videos with over 50 slides each. My oldest was able to walk around by himself since it’s mostly one large room, doing the experiments that interest him. My husband and I also had a good time engaging in the experiments and helping the kids learn. WOW also has a toddler area for younger kids and rotating exhibits.


Stop 3: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

What family fun day would be complete without a treat? Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory has something for everyone! They have dipped marshmallows, caramel apples with tons of different toppings, chocolate covered gummy candy, crispy rice treats, etc… For the more sophisticated palette, they offer sea salt caramels, a variety of truffles including rosè or espresso, and unique treats like honeycomb. There are also sugar-free and kosher options. RMCF also has gift boxes of chocolates (also good for gifting to yourself), chocolate bars, and other great options to take home and enjoy later.


Stop 4: The Mud Mill

The Mud Mill is a great place to showcase your creativity! From plates to mugs to figures, there’s a little something for everyone. You are able to pick whatever colors you’d like to make your vision come to life. From novice to more experienced artists, it’s a good time for everyone. The Mud Mill is a great way to spend a couple hours chatting with your family while creating! Your family can even make a matching set of items.


Stop 5: A&W of Lodi

Did you know that Lodi is the birthplace of A&W? A&W of Lodi recently celebrated their 100th year! This location is super cute from its car hop style parking lot to the case of memorabilia inside. This is such a fun place to have a meal with the kids! The menu consists of burgers, fries, chicken strips, hot dogs, and cheese curds. It’s basically every kid’s favorites. They sell root beer lollipops which is something we’ve never seen before and were a big hit with the kids. They serve all their root beer and floats in frosty glass mugs which is so nostalgic.