Washington State wines—from deep red cabernet to crisp Riesling—take center stage at this Seattle-area vineyard. Free tours of Chateau Ste. Michelle Vineyards include tastings, but wine isn’t the only reason to visit: Following the tour, take some time to stroll around the manicured, 105-acre (42.5 hectares) property. It’s easy to reach Chateau Ste. Michelle on a quick trip from Seattle, but the winery is also a featured stop on some longer wine-themed tours.
Call ahead to ensure a spot on the winery tour.
The winery gift shop is stocked with unique souvenirs.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Vineyards is wheelchair accessible.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Vineyards, located in Woodinville, is 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Seattle, 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Redmond, and 30 miles (48 kilometers) from Kent. Because public transit is limited, the best way to reach the winery is by car or taxi, or on a guided tour. Parking is available on-site.
The winery is open daily from 10am to 5pm, but is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, with occasional early closures for special events. The 35-minute free winery tours, which must be reserved in advance, are held multiple times daily, while wine tastings are available throughout the day.
A summer concert series draws a relaxed crowd to outdoor shows at Chateau Ste. Michelle Vineyards. Past performances have featured musicians from James Taylor to Stevie Wonder. Arrive early or take a taxi to avoid congestion in the parking lot; bring a picnic and pick up a bottle of wine in the on-site wine shop.
