Sip & Play: Kid-Friendly Local Breweries and Wineries Around Charlottesville & Crozet

If you’re a parent in Charlottesville or Crozet, you know that finding a spot where the grown-ups can relax and the kids can run free is pretty much gold. Whether it’s a laid-back Saturday with friends or a spontaneous Sunday outing, there are some amazing local breweries and wineries that truly cater to families. Bonus points if there’s a playground involved (or even just a giant field for the littles to roam).

Here are some of my personal favorite kid-friendly spots—perfect for grabbing a glass while your kids burn off energy (and maybe even make a new friend or two).

Pro Re Nata (Crozet)

Hands-down one of the best places for families. Pro Re Nata has a dedicated playground area, tons of outdoor seating, and frequently hosts live music. You’ll often find food trucks parked here and plenty of space for kiddos to run around. It’s a favorite for a reason!

1. Pro Re Nata Farm Brewery – Crozet, VA

• Address: 6135 Rockfish Gap Turnpike, Crozet, VA 22932
• Hours: Monday–Thursday: 3 PM–9 PM; Friday–Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
• Kid Perks: On-site playground, live music, food trucks, and plenty of outdoor space.
• Directions: Google Maps​

Brewing Tree Beer Company (Afton)

Located just off 151, Brewing Tree is a hidden gem for families. There’s a big sandbox on the side that keeps kids entertained for hours. And last weekend, the live music even included a jaw-droppingly good rendition of “Wheels on the Bus.” Yes, really. It was magical. Plus, there’s picnic seating, a food truck, and views of the river for the grown-ups to enjoy.

Brewing Tree Beer Company – Afton, VA

• Address: 9278 Rockfish Valley Highway, Afton, VA 22920
• Hours: Monday–Thursday: 12 PM–8 PM; Friday–Saturday: 12 PM–9 PM; Sunday: 12 PM–7 PM
• Kid Perks: Large sandbox with toys, chalkboard, open meadow with yard games, and a river for wading.
• Directions: Google Maps​

King Family Vineyards (Crozet)

Let’s be honest—King Family is the go-to for parents around here. The wine is fantastic, but what really sets it apart is the giant open field and the horses grazing just beyond the fence. Bring a blanket, some toys or a ball, and you’re set for an entire afternoon. It’s stroller-friendly and has a welcoming vibe for families (and dogs, too!).

King Family Vineyards – Crozet, VA

• Address: 6550 Roseland Farm, Crozet, VA 22932
• Hours: Daily: 10 AM–5:30 PM
• Kid Perks: Expansive open fields, polo matches on Sundays (seasonal), and views of grazing horses.
• Directions: Google Maps

Bold Rock (Nellysford)

While not quite a playground, Bold Rock has wide open spaces along the river where kids can splash, throw rocks, and explore while you sip on a crisp cider. There’s often live music, and the vibe is super casual and family-friendly.

Bold Rock Hard Cider – Nellysford Cidery – Nellysford, VA

• Address: 1020 Rockfish Valley Highway, Nellysford, VA 22958
• Hours: Friday–Saturday: 12 PM–9 PM; Sunday: 12 PM–7 PM
• Kid Perks: Open outdoor spaces along the river, perfect for exploration and play.
• Directions: Google Maps​

Blue Mountain Brewery (Afton)

Blue Mountain has a large outdoor seating area and a grassy hill that’s become an unofficial play zone. You’ll almost always see a few kids running around or rolling down the hill while their parents enjoy pizza and pints.

Blue Mountain Brewery – Afton, VA

• Address: 9519 Critzers Shop Road, Afton, VA 22920
• Hours: Monday–Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM; Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
• Kid Perks: Large grassy areas and hills for kids to run and play.
• Directions: Google Maps​

Cardinal Point Winery (Afton)

This smaller, laid-back winery has a chill outdoor vibe and often hosts events that are super family-friendly. While there’s no official playground, the space itself is welcoming and easy to manage with young kids.

Cardinal Point Vineyard & Winery – Afton, VA

• Address: 9423 Batesville Road, Afton, VA 22920
• Hours: Monday–Thursday: 11 AM–5 PM; Friday–Sunday: 11 AM–6 PM
• Kid Perks: Family-friendly atmosphere with open spaces.
• Directions: Google Maps

Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery (Charlottesville)

If you’re looking to stay in town, the IX Art Park location of Three Notch’d is right next to a funky and colorful outdoor play area (with murals, too!). The food is great, the beer selection is awesome, and the space makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with kids in tow.

Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery – Charlottesville, VA

• Address: 520 2nd Street SE, Charlottesville, VA 22902
• Hours: Monday–Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM; Friday–Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM; Sunday: 11 AM–8 PM
• Kid Perks: Adjacent to the IX Art Park, featuring colorful murals and a play area.
• Directions: Google Maps

Family Tips for Brewery & Winery Outings:

• Bring outdoor toys: Balls, bubbles, sidewalk chalk—easy entertainment while you sip.
• Check event calendars: Some spots have special family days or kid-friendly music performances.
• Pack a blanket: Even if there are tables, it’s nice to have your own space to spread out.
• Go early: Beat the crowd, claim a good spot, and get home before nap meltdowns hit.

Whether you’re new to the area or just looking for some fresh family-friendly spots, this list is a great place to start. There’s something pretty magical about sipping a local brew while your child is happily digging in a sandbox or watching horses in the distance.

Have a favorite spot I missed? Let me know—I’m always up for discovering new gems to share with fellow parents!