Are you looking for things to do in Napa Valley but don’t just want to fill your itinerary with wine tasting? Don’t worry, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in this beautiful California region, from hot air balloon rides to a plethora of amazing food, and even mud baths.
If you haven’t visited before, you might not realize just how large this region is. The Napa Valley is approximately 30 miles long and 5 miles wide, covering an area of about 305 square miles. That’s a lot of territory to explore. While one of the main draws of the region is wine, you can definitely intersperse your itinerary with other things, like art, outdoor activities, and sightseeing.
» Looking for more wine regions in California to visit? We personally love the Paso Robles area, as well as the classics Sonoma County, Napa Valley, Santa Barbara County, and even Lodi!
Things to Do in Napa Valley
Historic Landmarks
Downtown Napa is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. The Napa Valley Opera House is a great place to start. This historic venue hosts plays, dance, and musical performances throughout the year. Another historic venue for a variety of live performances is the Uptown Theatre, which is also located in Napa.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the area, be sure to check out the Napa Valley Museum. Located in Yountville, this small but informative museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the region.
Shopping and Boutiques
Downtown Napa is also a great destination for shopping and boutiques. The Oxbow Public Market is a must-visit destination for foodies. This indoor market features a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and meats.
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, head to First Street Napa. This outdoor shopping center features a variety of high-end boutiques and shops, including Napa’s only Apple Store.
Dining and Foodie Experiences
Downtown Napa is also a foodie’s paradise. There are plenty of dining options to choose from, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Why not treat yourself to a gourmet food and wine tour in Yountville, with a 3-course lunch and wine pairings.
For something a little more casual, head to the Oxbow Public Market. In addition to the vendors selling fresh produce and artisanal products, there are also a variety of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious meals.
For a very special occasion, you might try getting a reservation at The French Laundry, a world-renowned restaurant with a focus on French cuisine and farm-to-table ingredients. Reservations are difficult and the cost is very high, but it’s worth it!
We also really like Morimoto Napa. Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s contemporary Japanese cuisine with a Napa Valley twist.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
A hot air balloon ride is one of the most popular activities in Napa Valley. It offers a unique perspective of the valley’s beauty. There are several companies that offer hot air ballooning services, and Napa Valley Balloons is one of the most popular ones.
During the ride, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the valley and the vineyards. It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a romantic getaway.
Napa Valley Train Experience
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Napa Valley, consider taking a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train. This vintage train takes you on a scenic journey through the valley, offering stunning views of the vineyards and mountains along the way.
The train features a variety of different experiences, from gourmet meals to wine tastings to special events. The Vista Dome Package is a popular choice, which includes a four-course meal and tours and tastings at three well-known wineries. The elevated, two-story Vista Dome dining car provides a first-class experience with unforgettable views.
For a more casual experience, the Silverado Car is a great option. This vintage railcar has been restored to its original glory and offers a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable seating and large windows to take in the views.
The Napa Valley Wine Train also offers special events throughout the year, such as murder mystery dinners, holiday parties, and more. Check their website for upcoming events and book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Hiking and Biking
Napa Valley offers some of the most scenic hiking trails and bike tours. There are several bike rental shops available in the area, and Napa Valley Bike Tours is one of the most popular ones. You can even rent an electric bike to make it a little easier. They offer guided tours for all levels of experience. You can also rent a bicycle and explore the valley on your own.
For hiking enthusiasts, there are several trails to choose from. The Oat Hill Mine Trail is one of the most popular ones, offering breathtaking views of the valley. The trail is 8.3 miles long and is rated as moderate. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry enough water.
Kayaking on Napa River
Kayaking on the Napa River is a great way to explore the valley’s natural beauty. You can rent a kayak from several rental shops in the area. One of the popular ones is the Kayak Napa Valley. They offer guided tours and rentals for all levels of experience.
While kayaking, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the valley and spot some of the local wildlife. It’s a great activity to do with friends and family.
Napa Art Walk
The Napa Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour of public sculptures throughout downtown Napa. You can pick up a map at the Napa Valley Welcome Center and take a leisurely stroll through the city to view the artwork. The sculptures change every two years, so there’s always something new to see.
Uptown Theatre
The Uptown Theatre is a historic venue that hosts a variety of live performances, including music, comedy, and theater. The theater has been beautifully restored and features a grand lobby and balcony seating. Check their schedule to see who’s performing during your visit.
Napa Valley Opera House
The Napa Valley Opera House is another historic venue that offers a variety of live performances, from plays to dance to musicals. The opera house has been beautifully restored and is a great place to catch a show. Check their schedule to see what’s playing during your visit.
In addition to these venues, there are also several art galleries throughout the valley that showcase local artists. Check out the Jessel Gallery or the Quent Cordair Fine Art gallery for a taste of Napa Valley’s artistic side.
Throughout the year, there are also several music festivals and concerts that take place in Napa Valley. The BottleRock Napa Valley music festival is one of the most popular, featuring top acts from a variety of genres. Keep an eye on the event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
Calistoga Mud Baths
One of the most popular spa experiences in Napa Valley is the Calistoga mud bath. These mud baths are made with volcanic ash and mineral water and are said to have healing properties. The mud is applied to your body and left to dry before you rinse off in a mineral water shower. Several spas in Calistoga offer mud baths, including Indian Springs Resort and Spa and Golden Haven Hot Springs.
Hot Springs
Another popular spa experience in Napa Valley is soaking in hot springs. Hot springs are naturally heated mineral pools that are said to have therapeutic benefits. Napa Valley has several hot springs to choose from, including Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort and Calistoga Spa Hot Springs.
In addition to mud baths and hot springs, many spas in Napa Valley offer a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Some spas even offer packages that combine multiple treatments for a full day of pampering.
Cooking Class at Culinary Institute of America
If you’re looking to improve your cooking skills, the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena offers a variety of cooking classes. You can learn how to make everything from classic French cuisine to farm-to-table dishes using local ingredients. The classes are taught by professional chefs and are suitable for all skill levels.
Food Tasting at Oxbow Public Market
Located in downtown Napa, Oxbow Public Market is a foodie’s paradise. The market features over 20 vendors offering everything from artisanal cheese to fresh seafood. You can sample local specialties like Napa Valley olive oil and honey, or indulge in a gourmet sandwich or salad. Oxbow Public Market also hosts regular food events, such as cooking demonstrations and tastings.
Old Faithful Geyser
Located in Calistoga, Old Faithful Geyser is a natural wonder that has been erupting regularly for over a century. The geyser shoots a column of hot water up to 60 feet in the air every 30 minutes. You can watch the geyser erupt and also explore the surrounding gardens and animal park.
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park is a fascinating site that showcases the history of agriculture and industry in Napa Valley. The park features a restored water-powered grist mill that was used to grind grain into flour in the mid-1800s. Visitors can take a tour of the mill and learn about the milling process, as well as hike the nearby trails.
Petrified Forest
The Petrified Forest is a unique geological site that features ancient redwood trees that have turned to stone over millions of years. The forest is located in Calistoga and offers visitors the chance to see petrified trees up close, as well as learn about the geology and history of the area. There are several hiking trails in the forest, ranging from easy to moderate, that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Accommodation and Luxury Resorts
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Napa Valley, you won’t be disappointed. The area is home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the world, and they offer a range of amenities that will make your stay unforgettable.
When it comes to luxury resorts, Napa Valley has it all. From world-class spas to Michelin-starred restaurants, you’ll find everything you need to relax and unwind. Some of the most popular luxury resorts in the area include:
- Auberge du Soleil: This resort offers breathtaking views of the valley, as well as a range of luxurious amenities. The resort has a world-class spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a range of outdoor activities.
- Meadowood Napa Valley: This resort is set on 250 acres of lush forest, and it offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a golf course, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Calistoga Ranch: This resort is located in the heart of wine country, and it offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a world-class spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a range of outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some romantic things to do in Napa Valley?
Napa Valley is a great place for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Here are some romantic things you can do in Napa Valley:
• Take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards at sunrise.
• Enjoy a couples massage at one of the many spas in the area.
• Take a scenic drive through the valley and stop at one of the many picnic areas to enjoy a romantic lunch.
• Go on a sunset hike in the hills surrounding the valley.
• Take a cooking class together and learn how to make a romantic dinner for two.
What are some non-wine tasting options in Napa Valley?
If you’re not a drinker or just want to take a break from wine tasting, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options to enjoy in Napa Valley. Here are some ideas:
• Visit the Napa Valley Olive Oil Manufacturing Company and taste their delicious olive oils.
• Take a tour of the Anette’s Chocolate Factory and sample their handmade chocolates.
• Visit the Napa Valley Distillery and try their non-alcoholic spirits and mixers.
• Take a tour of the Castello di Amorosa, a medieval castle winery that also offers grape juice tastings.
• Visit the St. Clair Brown Winery and Brewery, which offers beer and kombucha tastings in addition to their wine tastings.
What are the best wineries in Napa Valley for non-drinkers?
If you’re a non-drinker, or just want to take a break from wine tasting, there are still plenty of wineries in Napa Valley that are worth visiting. Here are some of the best wineries for non-drinkers:
• The Sterling Vineyards offers a gondola ride to the top of the hill where you can enjoy stunning views of the valley and take a self-guided tour of the winery.
• The Robert Mondavi Winery offers a variety of tours, including a vineyard-to-table tour that includes a cooking class and a tour of the vineyards.
• The Beringer Vineyards offers a tour of their historic estate, including a visit to their Rhine House mansion and gardens.
• The V. Sattui Winery offers a deli and picnic area where you can enjoy a meal with a bottle of their grape juice or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
• The Domaine Carneros offers a sparkling wine tasting that includes their non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice.
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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.
