09-05-2025
The Luxe Ranch That Millennial Parents Are Loving: Why Alisal Ranch Is A Top Summer Getaway In 2025
The Alisal in scenic Santa Ynez is famed for its family-friendly horseback program, but is also home ... More to notable spa and dining experiences.
At preschool drop-off and pickup here in LA, I've been hearing a growing number of stories from young families choosing long weekend escapes to drive-friendly resorts – often with grandparents in tow. This anecdotal trend is consistent with a recent report on multigenerational travel which found that '50% of parents polled would prefer to take a multi-gen vacation over a vacation with just the kids,' and that,'76% agreeing travel is the ultimate way to make memories as an extended family.'
The destination of choice for many of these savvy millennial families? Alisal Ranch, a luxury working ranch where cowboy-style creature comforts meet five-star resort hospitality, all set amid the stunning Santa Ynez wine country. Just two hours north of Los Angeles, the 10,500 acres resort has been an annual, multi-generational destination for decades. Longtime guests who once took their own first trail ride at Alisal are now bringing children and grandchildren, while those new to the property will discover a contemporary, luxury-first take on a classic ranch experience.
Here are the top five need-to-knows for anyone considering a visit.
Trail Rides, Toddler Rides and Baby Sheep
A standout activity for many are Alisal's daily, two-hour scenic trail rides, with groups divided by riding level: beginner, intermediate and advanced. Rides can also be selected by duration, a starter ride for beginners is just one hour. For guests under seven, a complimentary 'lead around' ride at the barn gets even the youngest children familiar with horseback riding under the careful supervision of an expert wrangler and a parent, complete with helmets. For ages 4-6, 30-minute corral riding lessons are also available.
For kids who can't get enough of the barn or the ranch animals, the property's petting zoo opens daily at 930am, just as the first morning ride departs. This is a prime opportunity for parents to enjoy a morning ride while grandparents hang back with grandchildren to meet a baby goat, pet friendly pigs and, on select days, collect eggs from the henhouse. Even after the petting zoo closes, cat-loving kids can almost always receive a warm welcome from two resident lobby cats.
Child-Friendly Happy Hours and Expert Cocktails
It wouldn't be a luxury ranch experience without plenty of opportunity to unwind, Western style. Many nights of the week, different beverage-making classes take place in the classic-Western, saloon-inspired Oak Room. On Fridays, an expert mixology team leads a cocktail-making class– on Sundays, the team offers a wine-tasting.
Pro tip for families: at these happy-hour happenings, children are welcome and snacks are included. On occasion or by request, children are even welcome to make their own mocktails. The Oak Room space offers plenty of room to roam inside, and easy access to the central lawn. It's an ideal setup for one generation to enjoy a happy hour tasting while the other keeps an eye on the kids.
Alisals' trail-riding program offers opportunities for riders of all levels.
Suite Accommodations, From Cottages To A Luxe Home For 12
Every accommodation at Alisal is built with families in mind. Smaller groups can comfortably fit into a 458-square foot Mountain View Cottage or 450 square foot Luxury Studio, both outfitted with wood-burning fireplaces, vintage artwork and private patios. Luxury studios are the entry-level category, while the Mountain View Cottage has a separate living room space and two full bathrooms.
Multi-generational families traveling together and looking for a bit more space can book a variety of larger accommodations that sleep up to 12. The largest space, at 2,164 square feet, is the Jackson House, featuring three king bedrooms, each with its own wood-burning fireplace and wet bar. A dining room makes it easy to have private family meals or host a family happy hour using wine and snacks gathered from nearby wineries. Outdoor fireplaces and private entrances for each bedroom up the privacy factor.
Country Formal Family Dinners
One of the rare treats families discover at Alisal is the return of dressed-up, all-ages dinners – complete with live piano accompaniment and a grand Western setting. Meals here are a frequent highlight among families who have just returned from a first visit. Yes, many families absolutely lean into the dress code of cowboy boots, lariats, cowboy hats and other committed interpretations of cowboy formal. Another tip: bring at least one themed accessory for the full Alisal dinner experience.
Behind the scenes, the seasoned food and beverage team seamlessly ensures all requests are accommodated effortlessly. Dietary restrictions, kids' menus and non-alcoholic preferences are all noted in a pre-arrival call or email, and followed through by the service team each night.
A Wellness Retreat
Reserved exclusively for Alisal guests and members, the property's serene spa is a calm haven that strikes a fine balance between fancy cowboy and zen den. Body and facial reatments feature organic, nourishing ingredients. For parents relying on grandparents for childcare during a stay, a treatment here could be an appreciated 'thank you'. This may be a working ranch, but the spa feels like a luxurious retreat all on its own. Many of the massage therapists are decades-long veterans of Alisal, bringing an intuitive approach, and deep restoration, to each session.
For many families, the chance to enjoy five-star comforts in one of California's most scenic settings, surrounded by nature and designed with multigenerational travel in mind, is reason enough to return year after year. Every family I've spoken with post-Alisal has said they're already planning their next visit—for the trail rides, the slower pace, and, next time, with a few more cowboy accessories in their suitcase.
