The Sideways wine bus tour offers an immersive experience through Santa Barbara’s picturesque wine country, inspired by the iconic 2004 film. This guided adventure takes wine enthusiasts to renowned vineyards, charming eateries, and memorable movie locations. Participants can indulge in exquisite wine tastings, savor local cuisine, and relive scenes from the beloved movie while exploring the stunning Santa Ynez Valley.
What Is the Itinerary for a Sideways Wine Bus Tour?
A typical Sideways wine bus tour follows a carefully curated itinerary that combines wine tasting, sightseeing, and movie-inspired experiences. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect:
Day 1
- Morning:
- Breakfast at Solvang Restaurant (8:00 AM – 9:30 AM)
- Sanford Winery tasting (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
-
Ostrich Land visit (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
-
Afternoon:
- Lunch at Los Olivos Café & Wine Merchant (1:30 PM – 3:00 PM)
- Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard tasting (3:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
-
Firestone Vineyards tour and tasting (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
-
Evening:
- Dinner at Hitching Post II (7:30 PM – 9:30 PM)
Day 2 (Optional)
- Morning:
- Foxen Vineyard & Winery tasting (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
-
Zaca Mesa Winery visit (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
-
Afternoon:
- Picnic lunch at a scenic location (1:30 PM – 2:30 PM)
- Andrew Murray Vineyards tasting (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM)
What Are the Transportation Options for a Sideways Wine Bus Tour?
The Sideways wine bus tour offers comfortable and convenient transportation options to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Vehicle Types: Chauffeured limousines or vans
- Seating Capacity: 4-10 people per vehicle
- Amenities:
- Air conditioning
- Comfortable seating
- Pick-up and drop-off services
- Gourmet lunch options
- Water provided
- Small pets allowed (with prior arrangement)
Which Movie Locations Are Included in the Sideways Wine Bus Tour?
The tour incorporates several iconic locations from the Sideways movie:
- Solvang Restaurant
- Sanford Winery
- Ostrich Land
- Los Olivos Café & Wine Merchant
- Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard
- Firestone Vineyards
- Hitching Post II
Each location offers unique experiences and photo opportunities for movie fans and wine enthusiasts alike.
What Are the Costs Associated with a Sideways Wine Bus Tour?
The pricing structure for a Sideways wine bus tour typically includes:
- Per-Person Pricing: $100 for a one-day tour
- Group Discounts: Available for private groups (inquire for details)
- Package Deals: Two-day tour options with overnight lodging
- Additional Fees:
- 15% gratuity (not included in base price)
- Wine tasting fees (paid separately by participants)
- Nominal charge for pick-up outside standard areas
| Tour Type | Price | Duration | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-Day Tour | $100/person | 8-10 hours | Transportation, guide, lunch |
| Two-Day Tour | Varies | 2 days, 1 night | Transportation, guide, lunch, lodging |
How Can I Book a Sideways Wine Bus Tour?
Booking a Sideways wine bus tour is straightforward:
- Online Booking: Visit the tour operator’s website
- Phone Booking: Call the tour company directly
- Advance Reservation: Recommended, especially for two-day tours or peak seasons
- Payment Methods: Credit cards and other standard payment options accepted
- Cancellation Policy: Check with the operator for specific terms
What Should I Expect During a Sideways Wine Bus Tour?
Participants in a Sideways wine bus tour can expect:
- Expert guides knowledgeable about the Santa Ynez Valley and movie locations
- Opportunities to meet local wine experts and tour vineyard grounds
- Customizable experiences for private groups
- A blend of wine education, movie trivia, and scenic exploration
- Comfortable transportation between locations
- Gourmet food experiences at local eateries
How Does the Sideways Wine Bus Tour Enhance the Movie Experience?
The Sideways wine bus tour brings the movie to life by:
- Visiting actual filming locations
- Recreating iconic scenes and moments from the film
- Providing insider information about the movie’s production
- Offering tastings of wines featured in the movie
- Creating a immersive experience that combines cinema and viticulture
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Guided Sideways Wine Bus Tour?
Opting for a guided Sideways wine bus tour offers several advantages:
- Safety: Professional drivers ensure responsible wine tasting
- Expertise: Knowledgeable guides provide insights into wine and movie history
- Convenience: All logistics and reservations are handled by the tour company
- Access: VIP experiences and behind-the-scenes tours at select wineries
- Social Experience: Opportunity to meet fellow wine and movie enthusiasts
How Does the Sideways Wine Bus Tour Contribute to Local Tourism?
The Sideways wine bus tour has significantly impacted Santa Barbara’s wine country:
- Increased tourism to the Santa Ynez Valley
- Boosted sales of Pinot Noir (featured prominently in the film)
- Raised awareness of Santa Barbara as a wine destination
- Supported local businesses, including wineries, restaurants, and hotels
- Preserved and promoted movie-related landmarks
By participating in a Sideways wine bus tour, visitors contribute to the local economy and help sustain the region’s wine industry.
