Property
For reasons I can no longer remember, I resisted Safari West for a really long time. What a mistake. The safari tents (imported from Africa) are built on stilts with spacious decks overlooking either the giraffe enclosure or the catfish pond. They are fully equipped with private bathrooms, hot showers, and plush beds. All meals are onsite at the delightful Savannah Café. Do not fail to book a Jeep safari through 400 acres of game preserve. As you search the landscape for giraffes, ostriches, Watusi cattle, Cape buffalo, Kudu, Ibex, Impala, zebras, and warthogs, you’ll forget you’re not in the Serengeti. Plus, no malaria!

Location
Calistoga, California may not be Tanzania, but it does have the undeniable charm of being just 75 short miles north of San Francisco and a stone’s throw from wine country.

Sleeps
2-8.

Highlights
Waking to African birdsong while snuggling under your down comforter. Walking around the property when the animals are just waking up. Watching your kids frolic in the large grassy area adjacent to the cafe after dinner.

Good to know
The wildlife drives are 2 ½ to 3 hours long, and best suited to children over 3. You will see more giraffes on the morning drive than the late afternoon drive. Try to get the fascinating Gideon for your guide–he’s a natural entertainer and a bit of a celebrity (he composed the song at the beginning of the Lion King movie, and performs it on his tours).

Contact
www.safariwest.com

Written by Jamie Pearson

Property
60 modern, no-frills rooms and suites with microwaves, refrigerators, and activity tables. Families who don’t mind sleeping cozily can choose the Queen Studios. Those who prefer a little more space will be happiest in the double Queen Suites.

Location
The Inn is just a mile from historic downtown Napa.

Sleeps
2-6.

Highlights
Complimentary breakfast buffet. Indoor heated pool.

Good to know
Suites here are just one big room. If you like closing doors and staggered bedtimes, you’ll want to look elsewhere. Not the loveliest location, but a good deal for Napa.

Contact
www.hawthorn.com

Written by Jamie Pearson

Property
There are no surprises when you stay at Embassy Suites, but really isn’t that the whole point? Choose from King suites or double doubles. Both have a separate room with a sofa bed, fridges, microwaves, dining/work table, and room to spread out. Cribs and highchairs are available.

Location
Even if your Napa fantasy didn’t necessarily include kids, you can have a good time with them here. Take a jeep tour through Safari West. Visit the Petrified Forest, and Old Faithful Geyser. Check out Playground Fantastico (a playground cum public art space, just a mile away). If all else fails, you’re not that far from Six Flags Marine World.

Sleeps
2-6.

Highlights
Complimentary cooked to order breakfast. Indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools. Jacuzzi.

Good to know
If at all possible, beat the breakfast rush and crush by heading down before 8:30.

Contact
www.embassysuites.com

Written by Jamie Pearson