The start of a new year often brings a quieter rhythm filled with cool mornings and calm evenings touched by soft light. Many travelers begin searching for places that offer unhurried moments, memorable flavors, and experiences that encourage a slower pace.
In Napa Valley, that sense of ease comes naturally as the landscape unfolds with rolling vineyards, creative gatherings, and meals that invite you to linger a little longer. This listicle explores the best things to do in this scenic California region right now.
1. Try Dishes by Thomas Keller, America’s Most Celebrated Chef
Thomas Keller is the only American-born chef with multiple three-star Michelin ratings, and his influence is all over Yountville. You can book a multi-course tasting at The French Laundry, widely considered one of the best fine dining restaurants in the world. For something more relaxed, Bouchon Bistro serves French comfort food like oysters and steak frites in a lively setting. Just across the street, you can peek into The French Laundry Culinary Garden, an organic garden that supplies the restaurant and offers a close-up look at seasonal ingredients.
2. Explore Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga
Castello di Amorosa is a fully built Tuscan-style castle with a drawbridge, towers, and hand-carved woodwork throughout. The winery offers tastings inside stone halls and vaulted cellars, with grape juice available for non-drinkers and kids. You can also take a self-guided tour that covers the architecture, wine production, and historic design.
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3. Ride the Napa Wine Train Through the Vineyards
This restored 100-year-old train runs on a real railroad track through the valley. Onboard, you’ll find white-tablecloth dining, wine pairings, and multi-course meals while the scenery rolls past. There are different packages that range from lunch and dinner rides to full-day winery stops.
4. Taste Wine with a View at Sterling Vineyards
Sterling Vineyards sits on a hilltop that you reach by an aerial gondola, giving you wide valley views before you even taste a drop. The modern tasting deck is open and bright, with self-paced tastings and glass walls that let you look out over the vineyards. The property also includes access to behind-the-scenes views of the wine-making process.
5. Grab a Sweet Treat at Bouchon Bakery
Another Thomas Keller creation, Bouchon Bakery turns out flaky croissants, colorful macarons, and seasonal tarts that regularly make “best of” lists for a reason. The shop is small, but efficient, and the team moves the line quickly even on busy mornings. You can grab a coffee and pastry to go or grab a seat outside near the fountain. Popular picks include the almond croissant, the chocolate bouchon (its namesake), and lemon tarts in spring.
6. Step Into History at Charles Krug Winery
Founded in 1861, Charles Krug Winery is the oldest winery in Napa Valley and still family owned. The tasting room blends vintage architecture with modern finishes, and the outdoor lawn area has plenty of shaded tables and space to relax. You can try estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and other small-lot wines. There’s also an on-site trattoria serving wood-fired pizzas and small plates on weekends.
7. Eat Local Favorites at Oxbow Public Market in Napa
Oxbow is Napa’s go-to spot for casual meals, snacks, and local shopping in one place. Inside, you’ll find vendors like Model Bakery, Gott’s Roadside, Hog Island Oyster Co., and C Casa, plus wine bars, olive oil tastings, and craft coffee. The layout is open and easy to navigate, with indoor and outdoor seating.
8. Watch Hot Air Balloons Lift Off at Sunrise in Yountville
Hot air balloons launch early from the V Marketplace’s parking lot, often just around sunrise. If you’re not flying, you can still park nearby and watch the inflation and takeoff process from the lot. The quiet of the valley in the morning and the colors of the balloons make it one of the most peaceful sights in the area. If you do book a ride, most flights last about an hour and include a pre-launch coffee and pastries.
9. Discover Wine History at Chateau Montelena
Chateau Montelena’s 1973 Chardonnay famously beat French wines in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, a story that helped put Napa on the map. The estate features a stone chateau and a large pond with footbridges. You can book tastings by appointment, and there’s often time to walk the grounds afterward.
10. Try an Ice Cream Flight at Erosion Tap House in St. Helena
Erosion Tap House offers small-batch, rotating ice cream flavors served flight-style in sampler trays. Flavors range from classic to adventurous, often incorporating local ingredients or beer-based infusions. It’s connected to a taproom that serves craft beer and wine, so you can mix dessert and drinks in one visit.
11. Sip Bold Blends at Tank Garage Winery
Tank Garage Winery in Calistoga is set in a 1930s gas station and stands out for its bold, experimental blends. Inside, you’ll find neon signs, vintage racing posters, and a tasting bar pouring small-lot wines with edgy labels. The vibe is casual and creative, with a playlist and space that feel more like a hangout than a tasting room. Limited releases mean the wines here are constantly changing.
12. Relax in Natural Hot Springs or Mud Baths in Calistoga
Calistoga’s geothermal waters are at the heart of its spa scene. You can book a private mineral soak, full-body mud treatment, or full spa package at local spots like Indian Springs or Dr. Wilkinson’s. Most spas offer both indoor and outdoor areas, with add-ons like aromatherapy or massage.
13. Try Oprah’s Favorite English Muffin at Model Bakery
The Model Bakery’s handmade English muffins are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, and they gained national attention after appearing on Oprah’s Favorite Things list. They’re baked fresh daily and usually sell out by midday. You can find them at locations in Napa or St. Helena. Pair one with a coffee or breakfast sandwich if you get there early enough.
14. Walk the Yountville Art Walk
This self-guided walk runs along Washington Street in downtown Yountville and features dozens of outdoor sculptures. Most are displayed on landscaped corners or in front of galleries and restaurants, with signs explaining each piece. Some are temporary, so the route changes throughout the year. Downtown Napa also has an art walk scattered across a few streets.
15. Sample Handcrafted Chocolates
Kollar Chocolates in Yountville is known for its modern design, open kitchen, and creative truffle flavors. In St. Helena, Woodhouse Chocolate feels more like a European boutique, with elegant packaging and classic chocolate styles. If you’re in Calistoga, stop by at Earth & Sky chocolates inside the Calistoga Depot. In Napa, you can grab a chocolate souvenir of Anette’s Chocolates at Oxbow Public Market or on 1st St. All shops offer individual pieces or pre-packed boxes.
16. Cruise the Valley on the Napa Wine Trolley
The Napa Valley Wine Trolley is an open-air replica of a San Francisco cable car, offering wine tours with transportation, tasting stops, and lunch. Routes vary, but most include visits to three or four wineries with time at each. The guides are knowledgeable and keep the mood relaxed and fun.
17. Browse Downtown St. Helena’s Art Galleries
St. Helena has several galleries within walking distance of each other, including Caldwell Snyder, MEUSE, and AERENA. Exhibits range from fine art and sculpture to photography and home design pieces. Many galleries rotate collections monthly and also sell curated items like books or ceramics.
18. Ride or Walk the Napa Valley Vine Trail
This paved, flat trail connects towns like Napa, Yountville, and Calistoga, making it great for biking or walking. The stretch between Napa and Yountville is one of the most scenic, with vineyard views and benches along the way. There are plenty of entry points, so you can do just a portion or make it a full ride. Bike rentals are available near most town centers.
19. Take a Photo at the “Welcome to Napa Valley” Sign
You’ll find the iconic wooden sign just south of Yountville, near Oakville Grocery. There’s a small pull-off where you can park and snap a photo with the vineyards in the background. Mornings and during golden hour offer the best lighting. There’s also another sign on the same Highway 29 while entering Calistoga.
20. See Local Art at the di Rosa Center
The di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art sits on 200 acres and features both indoor exhibits and outdoor sculptures by Northern California artists. The spot is quiet, well-run, and there’s a tram to take you from one part of the museum to the other.
21. Start Your Trip at a Local Welcome Center
Each town in Napa Valley has its own welcome center with staff who can offer personalized recommendations. You’ll find free maps, tasting guides, event calendars, and tips on where to go based on your plans. It’s the easiest way to get grounded before you dive into tastings, hikes, or spa time. We recommend checking out the one in downtown Napa for an IG-worthy photo. 😉
Read More From Bae Area and Beyond
17 Things To Do In Downtown Napa
17 Best Places To Eat In Napa Valley
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