Curator’s statement
The Napa Valley is a tapestry of small towns, each with its own unique charm and personality. From hospitality to dining to wineries, this region has something to offer every type of traveler. Having grown up here, I am lucky enough to have experienced pockets of the valley unknown to most and want to share those hidden gems with you!
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Where to stay in Napa Valley
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Things to do in Napa Valley
Go wine tasting: A must. There are 475+ amazing wineries to choose from. Take your pick!
Spa day in Calistoga: Calistoga is known for its natural hot springs and mud baths. Head to Spa Solage or Indian Springs for some pampering.
Explore downtown St.Helena and Calistoga: Take a walk down Main Street or Lincoln Avenue to experience a number of local boutiques, small art galleries, and walk-in wine bars.
Bike or walk down the New Vine Trail: Enjoy panoramic views of vineyards on both sides as well as pockets of Bothe State Park.
V Marketplace in Yountville: Washington St is full of charming bakeries, shops, and restaurants. Head to the Marketplace to find some sweet gems hidden in the vintage brick building.
Explore the Calistoga Depot: This reimagined depot features multiple restaurants, distilleries, live music and tons of history.
Hot air balloon ride: Worth the early wake up call! See the sunrise over the valley from above.
Take a ride to the top of Sterling Winery: Go wine tasting or just ride the gondola up for a panoramic view of the valley.
Day trips
Calistoga
St.Helena
Yountville
Napa proper
Places to eat & drink in Napa Valley
Breakfast and coffee
Sam’s General Store: Super-quaint coffee shop in downtown Calistoga with ample outdoor seating.
Model Bakery (St. Helena, Yountville and Napa): The Yountville location offers coffee out of a railroad car, but the other two have a wider pastry spread. Make sure to get a bag of their famous English muffins to go!
Lunch and dinner
Giugnis Deli: Best grab-and-go sandwiches in town. Adding Giugni Juice to any sandwich is a must.
R+D Kitchen: Can’t go wrong with anything on this menu. Ding’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich is a fan favorite.
Gotts Roadside: Grab a burger and a glass of wine and enjoy the massive outdoor patio.
Farmstead: Farm-to-table-style dishes with a beautiful patio ambience.
Himalayan Sherpa Kitchen: Local family-owned gem in the heart of Main Street, St.Helena.
Need to know
Some of my favorite wineries:
Inglenook
Stags Leap Winery
Schramsberg Vineyards
Castello di Amorosa
Ehlers Estate
V.Sattui Winery
Travel Advisor
Isabelle Birebent
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Napa Valley. For more travel tips, check out Tara J. Condon’s guide, Through the Grapevine: A Napa Valley Guide.