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Things to Do · In and around Sonoita

Slow days, full days, your call.

A handful of experiences we'll set up for you here at the inn, plus the wineries and venues we love just down the road.

Hands-on · Hosted by us

Get your hands dirty.

Spend an hour with the goats, take home a block of cheese — small, real things you'll remember about the trip.

A block of wine-soaked goat cheese, sliced, beside a glass of red
$50 ~1 hour

Milk a Goat.

Experience hands-on milking of one of our beautiful does, learn the basics of goat care and how we ensure our milk is sweet and creamy. We will take you beyond the milk stand to learn the importance of post-processing the milk for consumption. With this experience, you will have the opportunity to take home a delicious quart of sweet milk to enjoy within the next week! $50 (Plan this experience for approximately 1 hour at the start of the day. This process is normally done early in the morning so do let us know if you would like to participate so we can accommodate your timeline! Weekends Only)

Weekends · early morning

$50 · $25 to add to milking 1–1.5 hours

Make Cheese.

Continue your goat milking experience or simply start here! Learn how to use 1/2 gallon of fresh goat milk and ranch-raised herbs & spices to create your own take-home blend of soft goat cheese. This simple process can be used later at home with any whole milk. $50 as a stand-alone experience, or $25 to add to the milking experience. (Plan 1-1.5 hours for this experience which can be done anytime during your stay. Weekends Only)

Weekends

$50 · $25 to add to milking ~1 hour

Make a Goat Milk Dessert.

Continue your goat milking experience or simply start here! Goat milk is very versatile and at McGinnis Ranch we use it for sweet and savory dishes alike. In this experience, we will share one of our favorite recipes and processes of your choice! Some farm favorites include Yogurt (requires 24-36 hours depending on what style you like yields 1pt-1qt), Vanilla Pudding with our homemade extracted vanilla (Yields approximately 6 cups), and for those hot summer months your personal choice blend of Goat Milk Ice Cream (1 qt). As with our other goat milk experiences you will have the option to take your product home or enjoy it during your stay! $50 as a stand-alone experience, or $25 to add to the milking experience. (Plan approximately 1 hour for this experience.)

Anytime during stay

$15–$25 / person

Plunge Pool.

Revitalize your senses with a refreshing dip in our exclusive plunge pools at The Wine Inn. Choose from three unique options to enhance your stay:

a) Cool down in a refreshing plunge for $15/person,

b) Brave the chill with an iced plunge for $25/person, or

c) Relax in a slightly warmed pool for $25/person. 

Whether you seek invigoration or relaxation, our plunge pools offer a rejuvenating touch to your getaway.

Anytime during stay

Let us know in advance and we'll have everything ready for your arrival. Reach out in touch or by phone at (520) 221-9174.

Private events

Host yours here.

Weddings, receptions, and group gatherings — small and intentional. Inquire and we'll quote it. See the wedding venue page →

  • Starting at $2,500 Up to 60 guests

    Wedding Packages.

    Let us have the honor of hosting your small, intimate outdoor wedding of up to 60 people. Inquire about our variety of options and add ons to make your day exactly as you had hoped.
  • Inquire

    Reception Packages.

    Whether it's a wedding reception, bridal shower, graduation party, you name it, we'll be happy to host your event and do our very best to accommodate your envisioned celebration. Inquire about our variety of options and add-ons to make your celebration the best.
  • Inquire Indoor or courtyard

    Group Gatherings.

    We offer indoor/outdoor options to host your event. Use our spacious Grande room, or our newly refurbished courtyard, or both! Inquire about our variety of options and add-ons to make your event great!

Seasonal happenings

On the calendar.

Standing dates we open up to current guests and the local community.

  • Each spring Afternoon

    Easter Egg Hunt.

    Each Spring, The Wine Inn will host an afternoon Easter Egg hunt for the local kids and current guests. We will have a couple craft tables while each age group gets their own round of egg mania.
  • Last weekend of October Afternoon

    Harvest Celebration.

    Celebrate the harvest season the Wine Inn way! Planned during the last weekend of October, kids can roam the courtyard and go from door to door to gather tricks or treats. We'll also have pumpkins for the kids to decorate. We haven't forgotten the parents! They too can go door to door within our courtyard for samples of local wine.

Just down the road

Wineries & tasting rooms.

19 of our favorites within a short drive — the kind of places we'd take our own friends. Hours vary by vineyard — check before you go.

Autumn Sage Vineyards.

Nestled on 30 acres in Elgin, Arizona, Autumn Sage offers a serene wine-tasting experience among 12,000 grape vines. Enjoy scenic mountain views, outdoor events at Sagrantino’s Patio, and neighboring wineries. Come and share the beauty and relaxation of Elgin with us!

AZ Hops and Vines.

Hops & Vines is a winery born out of defying the odds. Megan Stranik and her sister Shannon Zouzoulas were determined to create their own winery despite skepticism. Megan’s winemaking journey started at Sonoita Vineyard, where she developed a passion for the craft and gained hands-on experience across various wineries. Shannon joined the venture after a pivotal moment during a family road trip, committing to move her family to Sonoita to make Hops & Vines a reality. Together, they created a family-run winery known for its unique and “impossible” charm.

Callaghan Vineyards.

Callaghan Vineyards, established in 1990 by Harold, Karen, and their son, faced extreme heat during its initial planting, resulting in the loss of thousands of vines. This challenge led to a focus on replanting with grape varieties better suited to Arizona’s climate, shifting from Bordeaux to Mediterranean varieties like Graciano, Mourvèdre, and Grenache. Their winemaking approach emphasizes simplicity, vineyard-focused viticulture, and producing wines with depth and complexity. Over the years, Callaghan wines have garnered praise from top wine critics and publications worldwide, starting with their first vintage in 1991.

Charron Vineyards & Winery.

Charron Vineyards, known for its famous white merlots, offers over 15 wines alongside snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, all served by friendly staff. Nestled in the foothills of the Empire mountains, the vineyard’s scenic patio and lush, mature merlot vines provide a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere for guests to relax and enjoy.​

Deep Sky Vineyard.

The Elgin vineyard, planted in 2017, was created to offer guests an immersive on-vineyard experience, allowing them to taste the grapes used in the wines. Situated at 5000 feet, the vineyard features Bordeaux varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carménère, thriving in cool, limestone-rich soil despite challenges like frost, hail, and pests. The small, flavor-packed berries with high acidity are ideal for blending with Malbec to create the signature “Four Forces” wine.

Dos Cabezas Wineworks.

Since 1995, Dos Cabezas WineWorks has been growing grapes and producing wines in Southern Arizona. Originally located in Kansas Settlement, the winery and 80 acres of vineyard were pioneered by the late visionary, Al Buhl. Todd Bostock joined the team as winemaker in 2002 and by the end of 2006, the Bostock family took over operations of the winery, and it was moved to Sonoita where it resides today.  The winery is supplied with distinctive, high-quality fruit from its two estate vineyards: Pronghorn Vineyard in Sonoita, and Cimarron Vineyard in the Kansas Settlement.  

Elgin Winery & Distillery.

The Elgin Winery has been producing wines from Arizona grapes since the post-prohibition resurgence in winemaking in the Sonoran desert.  The Elgin Distillery was the first licensed Craft Distillery in Arizona and is the most and highest awarded distillery in the west.

Flying Leap Vineyards.

Flying Leap Vineyards, founded by Air Force veterans, stands out for its unique blend of military precision and passion for wine. Starting with a small vineyard in Arizona, the winery has expanded its production to include collaborations with top growers in Argentina and Washington, offering premium wines and spirits.

Hannah's Hill Vineyard.

Hannah’s Hill is a locally owned estate where wine and delightful conversation can be enjoyed in the shadow of the Mustangs. Our namesake hill provides unique micro-climates which resemble the Rhone Regions of Europe but our location in the Sonoita American Viticultural Area (AVA) creates a mineral and spicy lift to our wines.

Lightning Ridge Cellars.

Lightning Ridge Cellars, a small family winery established in 2005, represents years of personal endeavor from the ground up. We're proud to offer wines based on our Italian heritage. Our estate wines are made from classic Italian varietals: Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Montepulciano, Primitivo, Malvasia and Muscat Canelli. Clay soils, long warm summers, cool nights and an old world style of winemaking provide the perfect combination to produce rich, full-bodied wines.

Queen of Cups Wines.

Queen of Cups was born from a dream inspired by a memorable lunch in Galicia, Spain, where founders Emmett and Lily envisioned a cozy space centered on good wine, food, and friends. Returning to Patagonia during the pandemic, they unexpectedly realized their vision and opened in 2022. The winery focuses on low-intervention wines made from local Arizona and Sonoran grapes, highlighting the rugged beauty of the desert. With unique approaches like reusable bottles and crown caps, Queen of Cups creates wines that reveal subtle elegance with every sip, much like the hidden wonders of the desert.

Rune Wines.

Rune Wines, inspired by ancient Runes, strives to shape the story of Arizona wine by capturing the essence of time and place in every bottle. Established in 2013, Rune offers a unique outdoor tasting experience at Arizona’s only solar-powered, off-grid vineyard, with stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.

Sonoita Vineyards.

Sonoita Vineyards, Arizona’s oldest commercial winery, was founded in 1974 and opened in 1983, covering over 30 acres of vines. Located at 5,000 feet within the Sonoita Appellation (AVA), the vineyard benefits from its unique high-desert terroir. Known for producing award-winning wines, including a Cabernet Sauvignon featured at a Presidential Inauguration Gala, the vineyard grows several varietals like Merlot, Syrah, and Sangiovese. Sustainability is key at Sonoita Vineyards, where innovative practices like water harvesting and composting grape byproducts help preserve the land for future generations. Each bottle of wine is hand-bottled in small batches, with grapes sourced from estate-grown or local vines.

The Meading Room.

Nestled in the grasslands of southern Arizona, The Meading Room in Sonoita is a family-run farm and fermentery founded by mother-daughter duo Barbara and Kylie in 2019. Using raw honey, fresh fruit, and wild ingredients, they craft mead, cider, and wine that uniquely capture nature’s flavors.

Vino Stache Winery.

Vino Stache Winery is a family, farm winery.  If your last name is Ide or Lowry or you are a friend of an Ide or Lowry, you are required by law to come down to Arizona Wine Country to pick, pressure wash bins, clean tanks, bottle, label, pour, tend to customers or assist mom/wife/friend/wine maker in any way possible. 

Wilhelm Family Vineyards.

Wilhelm Family Vineyards grows ultra-premium grapes in the high desert of Sonoita, Arizona’s first American Viticultural Area (AVA). At 5,000 feet, their estate vineyard produces high-quality Spanish and French varietals, set against stunning mountain vistas one hour south of Tucson.

Other things to do

Trails, parks, & day trips.

A few favorites we'll point you to — from quick hikes off the porch to full-day Tombstone or golf in Tucson.

Hiking

Arizona Trail - Canelo Hills Segment.

This section of the Arizona Trail traverses the rolling hills and open grasslands of Sonoita’s wine country. The moderate hike offers expansive views, rocky terrain, and diverse wildlife. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet hike with the opportunity to experience Arizona’s natural beauty and occasional encounters with local fauna like deer, hawks, and native plants.

Hiking

Sonoita Creek State Natural Area.

A hidden gem for nature lovers, this area boasts easy to moderate trails that weave through lush riparian habitats and cottonwood groves. Following the meandering creek, hikers can enjoy peaceful walks accompanied by the sounds of flowing water, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. Look out for javelina, mule deer, and a wide variety of desert flora.

Hiking

Patagonia Lake State Park - Sonoita Creek Trail.

An easy-to-moderate trail that skirts the shores of Patagonia Lake, offering beautiful waterside views and access to the lush Sonoita Creek. The area is abundant with bird species, making it a top destination for birdwatchers. The trail offers shady spots along the way, making it perfect for a refreshing, leisurely hike with family or friends.

Hiking

Harshaw Creek Trail.

This moderate trail winds through scenic canyons, historic mining ruins, and Harshaw Creek’s serene landscapes. The trail is moderately shaded by oak trees and offers plenty of spots for wildlife sightings, such as wild turkeys, and the chance to explore the remnants of the area’s mining past. It’s ideal for those looking to combine history with nature.

Hiking

Gardner Canyon Trail.

For those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility, Gardner Canyon Trail provides a moderately challenging hike through the Santa Rita Mountains. The trail includes creek crossings, rugged woodlands, and panoramic views. Hikers are rewarded with a secluded experience, as the trail is less frequented, allowing ample opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the serenity of nature.

State park

Kartchner Caverns State Park.

Discover the breathtaking underground world at Kartchner Caverns, where you’ll find stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and limestone formations that have been growing for tens of thousands of years. This living cave offers guided tours, educational exhibits, and a unique adventure into Arizona’s geological history.

Day trip

Lavender Farm Tour.

Take a serene stroll through the fragrant fields of a lavender farm in the heart of southern Arizona. Learn about the cultivation of lavender, enjoy the scenic views, and shop for lavender-infused products made directly from the farm’s harvest.

Year-round events

Santa Cruz Fairgrounds.

From rodeos and livestock shows to family-friendly events and fairs, the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds is the place to experience local traditions and excitement. Check the schedule for year-round events, including the popular Sonoita Horse Races and county fairs.

Day trip

Championship Golfing in Tucson.

Just a short drive from Sonoita, Tucson offers world-class golfing experiences. Enjoy breathtaking desert landscapes while playing at championship-level golf courses designed by top architects. Perfect for golfers looking to combine luxury with scenic views.

Day trip

Tombstone.

The town too tough to die was founded in 1879 by prospector Ed Schieffelin in what was then Pima County, Arizona territory.  It became one of the last boomtowns in the American frontier in the 1880's.  Visit the famous gunfight at the OK Corral and watch actors recreate the events.  Check out the saloons, Birdcage Theatre, Boothill graveyard, eateries and many shops.  Take a stagecoach tour and hear about the rich history of the town or one of our personal favorites...the Ghost City tour!