Napa Valley, otherwise known as wine country, has become the premiere travel destination for wine and nature lovers alike. With over 400 vineyards to choose from, and scenic views from every angle, it’s no wonder people can’t get enough of the California hotspot. And if wine tastings aren’t necessarily your thing (or if you just want to explore more of the region), you can take your pick of Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury boutique shops, or art galleries in towns like St. Helena, Yountville, and more.
Below, a list of everything to add to your itinerary for your next Napa Valley vacation—including, of course, where to find the best cabernet sauvignon.
What to See
Napa Valley Aloft
What better way to take in all the scenic views than on a hot air balloon? Napa Valley Aloft offers rides leaving from V Marketplace in Yountville and hovers throughout the region. All flights come with welcoming refreshments (read: hot drinks and an assortment of pastries), and if you upgrade to the premiere balloon experience, you’ll be treated to charcuterie and a post-flight champagne toast.
Napa Valley Wine Train
Another unique way to explore Napa Valley is on a wine train. Choose from a day or nighttime experience as you travel from Downtown Napa to St. Helena, stopping at various wineries along the way. Enjoy a gourmet meal as you sit back, relax, and try all the delicious wines that the area has to offer.
Main Street
Napa Valley is home to many charming and quaint towns like Calistoga, St. Helena, and Yountville; and they each have streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and artisan shops. On Main Street in St. Helena, for example, you’ll find all of that and more (including a wonderful chocolate shop called Woodhouse Chocolates so you can snack while you shop).
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Where to Eat
RO Restaurant & Lounge
RO Restaurant & Lounge is your go-to for Asian-inspired cuisine with a California twist. The newly opened restaurant offers a robust and delicious menu that includes dishes like hokkaido uni toast and artichoke custard. And every Friday and Saturday night, local Bay Area musicians come by to play live music.
Bouchon Bakery
If you pull up to Bouchon Bakery and see a line out the door, trust that it’s worth the wait. Many locals and tourists alike flock to the Yountville bakery for its decadent pastries and savory bites. Try the highly-rated everything bagel croissant or the equally great ham and cheese baguette.
The French Laundry
It goes without saying that The French Laundry is one of Napa Valley’s most popular spots, particularly because of its unique dining experience. The three Michelin-star restaurant has a nine-course tasting menu that changes daily. They have two different meal options, the chef’s tasting menu and vegetable tasting menu, and no single ingredient is ever repeated during the meal.
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Where to Drink
Trinchero Napa Valley Winery
You simply can’t visit Napa Valley without stopping by a winery. Though there are many options to choose from, there’s something special about Trinchero Napa Valley. From the extremely welcoming and personable staff to the exquisite views from the property, it offers the ideal wine tasting experience. When you visit, you can enjoy a curated selection of five wines, some of which include sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, and chardonnay.
Chispa
While Napa Valley is most known for wine, the cocktails are pretty great, too. At Chispa, most drinks are made with tequila, but they also have a spirit-free menu if you’d rather opt for a mocktail. And with drink names like Divorce Daisy and Fire & Spice, who could resist?
ZuZu Napa
ZuZu boasts an incredible gin-based cocktail menu. For a spin on the classic G&T, they recommend choosing a gin (preferably one you’ve never heard of) and then picking a tonic to go with it (like elderflower, cucumber, or the tonic of the month). They also offer wine and sangria if you’re in the mood to try something different.
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Where to Stay
North Block Hotel
Just a short walk away from the aforementioned Bouchon Bakery, the North Block Hotel is an idyllic escape. As soon as you walk in, you’re met with a gorgeous courtyard, stone fountains, and ivy-covered walls. What’s more, each of the 20 guest rooms is equipped with ample outdoor space (first floor rooms come with patios and second floor rooms have balconies with stunning views of the valley).
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley
The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley has it all: a bocce ball court, an adults-only pool (and another for families), a luxurious spa, the list goes on. The property also has its own vineyard, Elusa Winery, for the ultimate “grape-to-glass” experience during your stay. Make sure to spend some time in the wine tasting room and try their signature Cabernet Sauvignon, or enjoy a glass at dinner. For an Airbnb-esque experience, book one of the luxury villas on-site.
Auberge du Soleil
Auberge du Soleil, which translates to “The Inn of the Sun” in French, brings a little slice of Europe to Napa Valley. Located on 33 acres of olive and oak trees, it’s the perfect spot if you want to take in some breathtaking views of vineyards and the Mayacamas Mountains. They also offer wine tastings, tours, and various dining experiences.
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