Curator’s statement
Napa Valley is an entire sensory experience. You’ll come for the wine, but you will leave with memories of Michelin-starred restaurants and breathtaking views. Here, mornings are best spent drifting through misty vineyards, afternoons savoring big, bold Cabs alongside artisanal charcuterie boards, and evenings wrapped in the warmth of a dining experience you’ll never forget. Beyond the glass, you’ll discover art galleries, hot air balloon rides, and the simple magic of slowing down in a place where every detail is crafted with care. Napa is where indulgence meets authenticity, making it a journey to be savored-sip by sip.
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Things to do in Napa
Morning hot air balloon ride
Wine tasting (of course): Our all-time favorites in the area are Del Dotto, Chappellet, Shafer, Joseph Phelps, Fantesca, Cakebread.
The Napa Valley Wine Train: Such a fun experience. You’ll enjoy a fantastic lunch (and drinks) while riding the most beautifully restored vintage train. A nostalgic yet luxurious way to see so much of wine country in just a quick three-hour train ride.
Napa Valley Aloft Hot Air Balloon Rides: You must do this. I don’t like heights either, but wow it is so peaceful and so breathtaking up in that balloon.
Explore downtown Healdsburg: Lots of local boutiques and shops, wine tasting rooms, galleries...just an adorable small town.
Places to eat & drink in Napa
RH Restaurant
So many great spots in the Napa area! Had no idea it was such a foodie destination.
Single Thread: This was our first-ever Michelin-starred restaurant experience and it’s still to date one of our favorites.
Goose and Gander: So cozy, cute and the food is phenomenal!
Piazza Del Dotto: Yes the winery-they have a lunch option that is...chef’s kiss!
Bouchon Bakery: Pop in here for a small bite when you are in Yountville for the hot air balloon.
Boon Fly Cafe: Worth the stop for a hearty breakfast before a full day of wine tasting.
The Charter Oak: We sat inside, and it was beautiful, but the outdoor courtyard is so dreamy!
RH Restaurant: This place surprised us in every way possible! Had no idea until this trip that Restoration Hardware even had restaurants, and dang was it good. Not incredibly expensive, and the food was just as amazing as the ambiance.
Other must visit wineries: Chateau Montelena, Alpha Omega, Cliff Lede, Pride Mountain
Need to know
Definitely get a driver for your wine tasting days-sooo much easier this way. Do not rely on Ubers to get you from winery to winery. You may very easily get one from downtown Napa, but the further up-valley locations can be much more difficult. Reach out to me if you need some recommendations!
Travel Advisor
Dana Lowe
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