48 Unforgettable Things to Do in Napa Valley
I love Napa Valley for so many reasons. Yes, it’s a world-renowned wine destination, home to Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury resorts, but that’s just the beginning.
Beyond the vineyards and fine dining, Napa offers incredible one of a kind experiences, from scenic hot air balloon rides to relaxing hot springs, beautiful hikes and trails, and probably the best english muffin you will ever taste.
I’ve been living in the San Francisco Bay Area and visiting Napa Valley since 2017. And I am so excited to share with you all of the amazing things wine country has to offer.
Best Things To Do in Napa Valley
Let’s explore the best things to do in Napa Valley! To make planning easier, this guide is organized by category.
I’ve also noted the towns where relevant and marked a 🌟 for MUST DO experiences for first timers. The rest depends on your interests and how much time you have!
Wine & Tasting Experiences
🌟 1. Wine Tasting
Wine tasting in Napa Valley feels like you have teleported to a different country for the day. Imagine yourself sipping on a delicious glass of wine, surrounded by endless rows of vines stretching across rolling hills.
But with over 400 wineries to choose from, where do you even start?
To narrow it down, consider what you’re looking for—do you prefer a tasting with a view or a cozy tasting room? What’s your budget? Tastings range from $50 to $300 per person. Do you favor small, boutique wineries or larger, well-known producers? And don’t forget location, you want to spend more time sipping than sitting in the car.
A few of my favorites to recommend for a Napa itinerary are AXR, Amizetta, Barnett Vineyards, Far Niente, Schramsberg Vineyards for sparkling, Tres Sabores, Rombauer for white wine, and Davis Estates for an incredible food and wine pairing. But there are so many more amazing ones to check out!
🌟 2. Food & Wine Pairing
A food and wine pairing in Napa Valley is an absolute must to take your tasting experience to the next level. After all, beyond the wine, Napa is known as a true culinary destination.
For an unforgettable experience, head to Davis Estates for their food and wine pairing. It’s small bites, but the food is fantastic and pair beautifully with the wines. B Cellars also has an incredible food and wine pairing.
🌟 3. Explore Wine Caves
When planning your wine tasting itinerary, I highly recommend including a winery that offers a wine cave tour and tasting. My personal favorite is the stunning marble-covered cave at Piazza Del Dotto and where you can also taste wine straight from the barrell.
Other incredible wine cave tours worth exploring are Davis Estates, Pride Mountain, and Schramsberg Vineyards.
4. Plan a Unique Experience at a Winery
Some wineries in Napa go above and beyond, offering truly unique and unforgettable experiences. You can go horseback riding at Shadybrook Estate, private cooking classes at Cakebread, or be a winemaker for the day at Raymond Vineyards.
🌟 5. Get Bubbly with Sparkling Wine
Mix your wine tastings up a little bit and try some of Napa’s Sparkling Wine. Start your day with some bubbles from Domaine Carneros, Chandon, JCB Tasting Salon, or Schramsberg.
If you are not a huge fan of bubbles but still want to try them, Schramsberg also offers a sparkling wine with a red wine tasting.
6. Hop Aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train – Downtown Napa
Step back in time and experience wine country from a different perspective aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, a beautifully restored vintage train. As you ride the rails through Napa Valley, take in sweeping vineyard views while sipping exquisite wine and feast on a gourmet multi-course meal.
🚂 Pssst: If you are interested in the Napa Valley Wine Train, a tip to save some $$ is to purchase the Priority Wine Pass, you can save up to $160 on the experience. Also, you get tons of other discounts on wine tastings and hotels. Get $20 off your pass with my coupon here! 🍷
7. Visit the Castle Winery & Ride a Gondola – Calistoga
Two of the most popular large-production wineries for first-time visitors are Castello di Amoroso, known for its authentic Tuscan-inspired castle, and Sterling Vineyards, famous for its gondola ride that takes you to a mountaintop tasting with stunning valley views.
I’ve taken family and friends to both (the castle winery more than once), and we’ve always had a great time. However, these wineries tend to be on the crowded side, so you won’t get the intimate tasting experience that smaller-production wineries offer.
Restaurants & Culinary Experiences
🌟 8. Indulge in Napa’s Culinary Scene
Napa Valley may be world-famous for its wine, but it’s also a food lover’s paradise. This culinary mecca is home to some of the most iconic restaurants. The town of Yountville, which boasts the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants in a small area anywhere in the world, pretty mind-blowing!
But a Michelin star isn’t required to serve an unforgettable meal in Napa Valley. The region is filled with incredible farm-to-table restaurants that highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients.
🌟 9. Peruse the Oxbow Market – Downtown Napa
Oxbow Market is another place I always make time for when visiting Napa Valley. This vibrant food hall is packed with local vendors, making it a great spot to grab lunch, sip on coffee from Ritual Roasters, or indulge in a sweet treat from Kara’s Cupcakes.
Oxbow has everything from sushi, pizza, oysters from Hog Island, to a distillery where you can do a tasting. And, you can enjoy your meal outdoors along the scenic Napa River.
🌟 10. Devour English Muffins at Model Bakery – Napa, Yountville, & St. Helena
Breakfast here is a must! Model Bakery is famous for its unbelievably delicious English muffins—and yes, they really are that good.
Buttery, fluffy, and so yummy smoothered in butter and jam. Beyond their legendary muffins, Model offers a full breakfast and lunch menu, with multiple locations throughout Napa.
11. Go Olive Oil Tasting
Taste local infused olive oils at Napa Valley Olive Oil Manufacturing Co., a hidden gem in St. Helena. This family-owned shop also offers authentic Italian goods like freshly baked bread, salami, pasta, and prosciutto to pair with your wine.
If you’re curious about the art of olive oil making, some wineries, like Round Pond, offer an immersive tasting experience at their Olive Mill.
🌟 12. Bouchon Bakery – Yountville
Another must-visit is Bouchon Bakery, from the legendary Thomas Keller. Known for its artisanal breads and classic French pastries, everything I have ever tried here has been insanely delicious.
And their almond and chocolate croissant? Gone in under two minutes with zero regrets about not sharing.
13. Take a Cooking Class at CIA Copia – Downtown Napa
Sharpen your cooking skills with a hands-on class at CIA Copia, led by expert chefs. They offer a variety of classes, but it’s just a cool way to cook with fresh seasonal Napa ingredients with some of the best to do and teach it.
14. Lunch at Oakville Grocery
Oakville Grocery is one of those places I just can’t skip whenever I’m in Napa. Whether it’s grabbing a quick sandwich, a coffee and pastry pick-me-up, or a bottle of wine to take home, it always hits the spot.
The bustling market has everything, wood-fired pizza, artisan cheeses, and a great selection of Napa wines by the glass or bottle.
It’s a popular weekend spot, so expect crowds. Grab a seat outside to soak in the vibe or take your food to go for a picnic or winery visit.
🌟 15. Create Your Own Picnic
One of things I love to do when visiting Napa Valley is to pack a picnic to enjoy outside at a winery or a public park.
You couple of top notch spots to get picnic supplies from is Oxbow Market, Palisades, Oakville Grocery, Station in St. Helena, or my favorite deli Guigni’s in St. Helena for fresh made sandwiches.
🍷 Wine Gal Tip: Most Napa wineries do not allow picnics, so be sure to check in advance. One of my favorites that does allow you to bring food is Tres Sabores Winery!
16. Try Local Breweries & Distilleries
Got a beer lover in your group? Napa Valley has great breweries too! Check out Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery for craft beer, delicious food, and live music on their charming patio.
And if you’re up for something different, head to Napa Distillery in Oxbow Market for a craft spirits tasting. Their seasonal cocktails are innovative, top-notch, and a fun way to experience a different side of Napa Valley.
Outdoor Adventures in Napa Valley
17. Set Flight On a Hot Air Balloon Ride
A popular activity in Napa Valley is taking a hot air balloon ride. It is adventurous, unqiue, and a one of a kind experience. They take off bright and early at sunrise, so you can soak in the panoramic views of the valley in the morning light.
✅ I recommend Napa Valley Aloft for a hot air balloon ride, you can check there rates here!
18. Explore Napa By Bike
Hop on an E-Bike for a fun day of wine tasting and exploring Napa Valley’s scenic hills. On a guided tour, you’ll discover local history, sample wines at two charming wineries, and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch from Bouchon Bakery.
19. Visit the Old Faithful Geyser – Calistoga
If you are traveling with kids, a great place to stop by for the afternoon is the Old Faithful Geyser. Named “Old Fairthful” for it regular eruptions that occur every 15 to 30 minutes.
There’s also an animal farm, gelogy museum, beautiful gardens, and picnic and bocce courts.
20. Go On A Romantic Gondola Ride – Downtown Napa
Take a romantic escape to Venice, Italy, right on the Napa River with a relaxing gondola ride. Inspired by the iconic Venetian gondolas, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Napa Valley with your special someone.
21. Take a Hike
Another one of my favorite things to do in wine country besides wine tasting and eating out is getting outdoors and going on a hike. Both Napa and Sonoma County offer a variety of awesome hikes that are worth checking out.
Walk among towering redwoods at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, uncover 3.4 million-year-old petrified redwood trees at The Petrified Forest, visit a mill built in the 1800’s at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, or explore scenic trails along the foothills of Napa Valley at Skyline Wilderness Park.
22. Kayak or Paddleboard The Napa River – Downtown Napa
Stay active during your Napa trip with a morning kayak or paddleboard adventure on the Napa River. You can rent equipment for a solo outing or join a guided kayak tour to learn about Napa’s rich history while enjoying the stunning views of downtown.
23. Plan a Lake Day on Lake Berryessa
Fun fact, Lake Berryessa is one of the largest freshwater lakes in California! Spend a hot summer day here with family and friends, enjoying waterskiing, swimming, tubing, boating, kayaking, or fishing.
24. Play a Round of Golf
If you’re a golfer, Napa Valley’s perfect weather makes it an ideal place to hit the greens. Eagle Vines in American Canyon offers a great public course, while Silverado Resort boasts two PGA championship-level courses—though access is limited to members and resort guests.
Best Free Things to Do
🌟 25. Snap a Pic in Front of The Napa Valley Sign – Yountville & Calistoga
You can’t visit Napa Valley without taking a group pic in front of the Napa Valley sign! There are actually two signs in Napa Valley, one is by Yountville and the second is in Calistoga.
26. Soak in a Napa Valley Sunset
There is no better spot to catch a sunset in Napa Valley than the restaurant at Auberge du Soleil. Perched on a hillside in Rutherford, The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil is known for its breathtaking vistas that stretch across the valley and the Mayacamas Mountains.
Another great restaurant for a sunset view (and dinner) is at Brix. They have beautiful gardens and mountain views.
27. Go On a Scenic Drive
I love just hopping in the car and driving around wine country. It’s so peaceful and refreshing. You may stumble upon a hidden gem of a winery you’ve never tried or simply sit back, relax, and soak in the endless views of Napa Valley.
One of my favorite scenic drives in Napa Valley is along the Silverado Trail. This iconic 26-mile route stretches from the city of Napa to Calistoga, featuring breathtaking vineyard views.
28. Savor Every Napa Valley Town
There are five main towns in Napa Valley, and it’s worth exploring each town and discovering its own unique vibe and personality.
From the lively energy of downtown Napa to the quaint, wine-country charm of St. Helena, each town offers something special.
Yountville is a foodie’s paradise, Calistoga is known for its laid-back hot springs and mud baths, and American Canyon offers golfing and budget friendly accommodations.
29. Walk, Bike, or Run the Napa Vine Trail
Start your morning off right with a walk, run, or bike ride along the Napa Valley Vine Trail.
The Vine Trail is 47 miles long and connects the valley from Vallejo to Calistoga. The trail showcases vineyard views, a car free and flat path, and numerous wonderful wineries along the way.
30. Stroll the Farmer’s Markets
I’m a sucker for a good farmers market, and there’s no better place for one than Napa Valley. Browse fresh, seasonal produce, handmade crafts, beautiful fresh-cut flowers, and more. It’s the perfect way to shop locally and support Napa’s farmers and artisans!
There is one in downtown Napa and another one in Calistoga that are year round. St Helena’s farmer’s market is seasonal and runs from May through October and Yountville has a Farm Stand in the front plaza of the Yountville Community Center every Tuesday and Thursday.
31. Search For Wildflowers
Springtime in Napa Valley is absolutely breathtaking! It’s the perfect season to witness the valley bursting with gorgoeus wildflowers.
From January through March, golden mustard fields blanket the vineyards, while bright California poppies bloom in mid to late spring. You can also visit Charsaw Farms in the spring or summer and wander through acres of fragrant lavender fields.
Relaxation & Wellness in Napa Valley
32. Soak in a Mud Bath & Hot Spring – Calistoga
The laid back town of Calistoga is renowned for its mineral-rich hot springs and rejuvenating mud baths, known for their therapeutic benefits.
Even if you’re not staying overnight, resorts like Indian Springs offer day passes, so you can relax and unwind in their Olympic-sized mineral pool.
33. Do Some Retail Therapy
There are so many adorable and unique boutique shops in Napa Valley. Each town has their own downtown area and shops. It’s fun to just browse the stores and support these local businesses.
34. Plan a Relaxing Spa Day
I can’t think of a better way to treat yourself on vacation than with a relaxing spa day. As a luxury destination, Napa Valley is home to world-class spas, but for the ultimate experience, Meadowood Napa Valley is unmatched.
With both the spa and hotel earning Forbes Travel Guide’s Five-Star rating, it’s the epitome of luxury. Another top-tier option is at the exclusive, Stanly Ranch, at the Halehouse Spa.
Nightlife & Entertainment
35. Put Your Skills to the Test at The Grape Escape – Downtown Napa
Napa Valley’s The Grape Escape offers an exciting escape room. If you’ve never tried one before, it’s a blast and a unique bonding experience.
They have a variety of themed games at different difficulty levels and they’re open late, making it the perfect post-dinner activity!
36. Enjoy Live Music at Blue Note Jazz Club – Downtown Napa
incredible live music at Blue Note Napa, a Jazz club located in the historic Napa Valley Opera House. They have shows every night except for on Monday’s and Tuesday’s.
37. Grab Drinks at Cadet Wine + Beer Bar – Downtown Napa
If you are looking for a late night spot for drinks and live music, Cadet Wine + Beer Bar is the place to go. It has chill and casual vibes, a great wine and beer list, and the closest thing you are going to get as nightlife in Napa Valley.
38. Catch a Film at Cameo Cinema – St. Helena
Cameo Cinema is California’s oldest continuously operated single-screen movie theater. It’s a 140 seat theater that shows a variety of films from current hit movies to international, independent, and critically acclaimed films.
39. Get Panoramic Views at Sky + Vine Rooftop Bar – Downtown Napa
Another hot spot to visit in downtown Napa is the rooftop bar at the Archer Hotel. It’s perfect for late night drinks, beautiful views, a bite to eat at their restaurant, and live music on the weekends.
I recommend getting a reservation in advance and request a table with the skyline view.
40. Napa Peddal Crusher
Pedal your way through downtown Napa with the Napa Pedal Crusher! If you have never been on a party bike, they are such a blast. Such a fun and unique way to explore the city and the perfect group activity for a girls’ trip or bachelorette party!
Annual Events & Fesitivities
41. Stomp Grapes During Harvest Season
Harevst Season is a magical time in Napa Valley! It’s the moment we all wait for after months of hard work the grapes have reached peaked ripeness and are ready to be picked.
Napa’s harvest season begins in August and run through October. During this time wine country is abuzz with events like crush parties, harvest dinners, and grape stomping. V. Sattui, Bouchaine Vineyards, & Grgich Hills hold annual grape stomping events
42. Plan Your Trip During Cabernet Season
Experience a quieter, cozier Napa Valley during the winter months, also known as Cabernet Season. As the harvest buzz fades and temperatures drop, the region slows down, making it an ideal time for a relaxing wine country getaway.
This is also when Napa’s renowned Cabernet Sauvignons are released, perfect for sipping on by the fire.
43. Attend a Music Festival
Bottlerock is the most well known music festival in Napa, it’s takes place over Memorial Day Weekend. Other music events to add to your calendar are Napa Valley Jazz Gateway, Festival La Onda, and Blue Note Summer Sessions at the Meritage Resort.
44. Check Out Napa Valley’s Other Annual Festivals
Throughout the year there are always interesting and unique events on Napa’s calendar. Some of the annual festivals to check out are:
Napa Lighted Art Festival, Napa Truffle Festival, Napa Valley Film Festival, Napa Valley Restaurant Week, Festival Napa Valley to name a few.
Napa’s Arts & Cultures
45. Visit One of Napa Valley’s Museums
Discover Napa Valley’s history and culture through its museums. Explore local history at the Sharpsteen Museum, contemporary art at di Rosa, or a mix of both at the Napa Valley Museum. Visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Silverado Museum for literary history or the Carolyn Parr Nature Museum for a nature-focused experience.
46. Experience Napa Valley Through Art
Art is woven into Napa Valley’s culture, with galleries and free exhibits in every downtown area.
In downtown Napa, the Napa Artwalk features rotating outdoor sculptures, while the The Yountville Art Walk and Audio Tour showcases works by local and international artists. For a unique and hands-on experience, take an art class at Jessel Gallery, Napa’s oldest and largest art space.
47. Discover Unique Art and Performances at Jarvis Conservatory
Jarvis Conservatory is an intimate theater known for showcasing rare art forms, including unique Hispanic art, rarely seen elsewhere. It hosts live concerts, performances, and films from local filmmakers, all at an affordable price, with tickets around $20.
48. Rail Arts District
Stroll through the up-and-coming Rail Arts District and take in its towering murals. This two-mile stretch in downtown Napa showcases as an open-air contemporary art gallery. Explore it on foot or view it from the Napa Valley Vine Trail or The Napa Wine Train.
How Many Days Do You Need In Napa Valley
There is a lot of things to do on this list, so you are probably wondering how many days do you really need in Napa Valley.
I think to give you best well rounded trip of Napa Valley, you will need at least 4 days and 3 nights. This will allow time to do some wine tasting and also explore so of the other things to do in Napa Valley. If you only have time for a day trip, you can still get a good taste of Napa by visiting 1 – 3 wineries.
However, if you are spending a week in Napa Valley, I highly recommend doing a day trip to Sonoma or heading to the coast and going to Bodega Bay.
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- Napa Valley in Spring: 14 Best Things to Do + What to Pack
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