Temecula is a mid-sized city located between Los Angeles and San Diego in the Temecula Valley – Southern California’s wine country. Old Town Temecula is a popular draw for visitors, as well as the unique activities in the area that include wine tasting, hot air ballooning, gambling, golfing, festivals, and shopping.
Although vineyards were originally planted in the valley in 1820, the first modern commercial vineyards were established in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. Today there are over 30 wineries in Temecula Valley that produce hundreds of award-winning wines. Wine tasting rooms, winery tours, and events are offered daily throughout the region.
Old Town Temecula combines old and modern with historic buildings, boutique retailers, more than 640 antique dealers, bars, restaurants, and a burgeoning nightlife. The Pechanga Resort and Casino in town offers large gambling halls, several night clubs and restaurants. Temecula has museums, community theatres, movie theatres, and plenty of activities and events for families.
Several annual festivals are held in town and throughout the valley. The Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival, drawing nearly 38,000 people to nearby Lake Skinner and includes balloon launches, wine tasting from over 20 local wineries, food and wine competitions, concerts, arts, crafts, and events for children. Other annual festivals feature music, film, arts, and cultural heritage.
The Temecula Valley has more than 8 golf courses, 7 of them championship. Hot air ballooning is a popular activity in the valley with several tour companies offering scenic flights. Lake Skinner Recreation Area is only a few miles east of Temecula and offers fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, camping and more. Diamond Valley Lake is developing several hiking trails and other ways to enjoy the surrounding wilderness.
Temecula has a multitude of lodging and dining options for every budget and preference. Several chain and local hotels are found in town, and there are bed & breakfasts, spas and resorts throughout the valley. The town of Temecula is located about 85 miles south east of Los Angeles, 60 miles north of San Diego, and 43 miles south of Riverside. To learn more about Temecula explore the links to the left.
