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Temecula Creek Inn Puts on an 'Artisan Wine Dinner' to Lure You Down to Temecula

Where: 44501 Rainbow Canyon Rd. [map], Temecula, CA, United States, 92592

We know, we know, Temecula is not as exciting a wine destination as some of California’s other regions, but sometimes Angelenos don’t have the time to zip all the way up to the Russian River Valley for dinner. For just a quick overnight stay, Temecula can be just the right distance, especially when the Temecula Creek Inn is hosting an Artisan Wine Dinner with Boorman Vineyards Estate Winery. Dare we say it's a perfect Staycation Hotel?

On Friday, October 23rd, guests can head to the Temet Grill at the 350-acre resort for a four-course meal created by Executive Chef Salvatore Giuliano, and paired with Boorman’s premium wines, like a 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, a 2007 Pinot Noir, and a 2007 Barbera.

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One Reason To Stay at Pechanga: Hot-Air Balloon Rides

Where: 45000 Pechanga Pkwy. [map], Temecula, CA, United States, 92592

Hotels offer all sorts of crazy things-that-go gimmicks, whether it be a couple's massage on a gondola or a free cocktail cruise. But the Pechanga Resort and Casino literally goes above and beyond with its "Up, Up & Away" hot-air balloon package.

You'll start before day breaks and take a hot-air balloon ride over Temecula Valley, SoCal's own wine country. As you peacefully float up to 3,000 feet in the air, you'll get a great perspective of the vineyards, wineries, lakes and citrus groves as the sun rises over the mountains.You won't have to worry about maneuvering in the seven-story balloon and getting lost in Oz like the Wizard, since a pilot from Grape Escape Balloon Adventures will guide the 75-minute tour.

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Pechanga: The Not-Quite-Vegas Alternative in SoCal

Where: 45000 Pechanga Parkway [map], Temecula, CA, United States, 92592

[Publisher's Note: Editor Juliana got dragged down unexpectedly to Temecula, Calif. over the weekend and decided to make the most of it by checking out the Native American tribal resort and casino Pechanga Resort & Casino. Her full recap of the Vegas-imitated experience, complete with some pics below. Enjoy.]

Pechanga Resort & Casino is by no means a world-wide destination but rather a conveniently located casino resort for Southern California residents.

Located 80 miles from San Diego and a little over 100 from Los Angeles, it often bills itself as the shortcut to Las Vegas, which would be appropriate if traffic around the area didn't exist.

But unfortunately in California it does. So what should have been an hour and half trip from Los Angeles turned into a three-hour drive, complete with teasing billboards along the way that said, "Pechanga-the shortcut to Las Vegas." (Hint: Avoid the 91 Freeway at all costs.)

Another reason why its not like Las Vegas is the fact that its in the middle of nowhere. Arriving at the hotel is completely anti-climatic as it sits in between master planned communities.

But that doesn't mean Pechanga is not worth it.

More of Pechanga post-click.

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