Yes, visiting Napa Valley without a car is possible—but only with careful planning and realistic expectations. For a short stay concentrated in one or two towns, you can explore comfortably on foot, by rideshare, or through guided tours. For travelers hoping to roam freely among wineries scattered across rural hillsides, however, a car still offers unmatched flexibility.

With more and more people choosing not to rent a car, the real question isn’t whether Napa Valley is accessible without a car, it’s how to do it right. The key is to center your stay in an area with clustered tasting rooms, easy access to dining, and reliable transportation services. Travelers who approach Napa as a walkable wine town experience, rather than a sprawling road trip, can absolutely enjoy it car-free.

Getting to Napa Valley Without a Car

The most common entry point is San Francisco, about 60 miles south. Without a car, you have several options:

• Ferry and shuttle: Take the San Francisco Bay Ferry to Vallejo, then connect to the Vine Transit Route 11 bus into downtown Napa. It’s scenic and budget-friendly, though the total trip can take two to three hours.
• Airport transfer or rideshare: From SFO or OAK, private shuttles and rideshares are available but costly (often $150-$250 one-way). For small groups, this can still beat the hassle of driving yourself.
• Private car service: Best for visitors arriving with luggage. Companies like Pure Luxury Transportation and Beau Wine Tours & Limos offer direct shared or private transfers from Bay Area airports to hotels in Napa Valley.

Once in the valley, deciding how to move between towns becomes the main challenge.

Getting Around Napa Valley Without Driving

Napa Valley stretches roughly 30 miles from Napa to Calistoga, with wineries dotted along Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail, which run parallel to each other. Each mode of local transport works best for a specific style of trip.

Rideshares

Uber and Lyft operate here, but coverage is inconsistent, especially north of St. Helena or after dark. Wait times of 15-25 minutes are common, and return rides from remote wineries aren’t guaranteed. In downtown Napa and Yountville, though, service is relatively dependable for short hops between tastings or dinner reservations.

Use rideshare apps primarily within a single town or area—for example, staying in Yountville and visiting nearby tasting rooms or restaurants—and avoid counting on them for cross-valley travel.

Organized Wine Tours and Drivers

If you want to visit wineries scattered across different towns without driving, join a small-group or private wine tour with companies like California Wine Tours or West Wine Tours. These range from half-day circuits to curated itineraries with tastings, lunch stops, and local guides.

Private drivers are another flexible option for couples or groups. Many are independent locals with deep winery connections, making reservations easier. Expect rates from $60-$90 per hour with minimum booking times. This approach eliminates transport stress while keeping your schedule flexible.

The Napa Valley Wine Train

For a unique, car-free day, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a restaurant-style rail journey from downtown Napa through Rutherford and St. Helena. It’s not a hop-on, hop-off service but a fixed route with tasting and dining options aboard. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the scenery without driving, not a transportation method between stops. You can learn more about the Wine Train experience here.

Biking and Walking

Biking works well in Napa Valley’s flatter stretches, especially Napa to Yountville along the paved Napa Valley Vine Trail. Choose hotels offering bikes or guided bicycle tours for casual days. Here are more tips for biking in Napa Valley.

Walking is realistic only within compact downtowns like Napa, Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga. Each of these towns have concentrated tasting rooms and restaurants within a mile radius. Between towns, however, distances quickly stretch, and road shoulders can be narrow or unsafe for pedestrians.

Public Transit Reality Check

Napa County’s Vine Transit bus network connects certain towns along Highway 29. It’s clean, safe, and affordable, but service is limited to hourly daytime routes and doesn’t reach rural wineries. Use it for essential travel, such as moving between Napa, Yountville, or St. Helena—not for winery hopping. Schedule awareness is critical, as late-evening service is minimal.

Where to Stay Without a Car

Choose your base based on walkability and access to dining. These towns make car-free trips far easier:

Downtown Napa

Best public transit hub and has the most action day and night. You can walk to dozens of tasting rooms, shops, and top restaurants, walk along the river, and explore free public artworks in town. Our Top Hotel Picks: Andaz Napa, Milliken Creek Inn.

Yountville

Compact luxury village with attractive buildings, Michelin-rated dining, and cute tasting rooms all within a few blocks. It’s also the closest town to Napa, connected by the Vine Trail. Stay Here: Lavender, A Four Sisters Inn.

St. Helena

Expect small-town charm with a number of shops, galleries, restaurants, and a handful of centrally located wineries nearby. Our Top Hotel Choice: Meadowood Napa Valley.

Calistoga

Ease into a slower pace, where a quaint downtown, mineral spas, inns and luxury lodging, and several wineries round out the experience. Our Go-To Lodging: Dr. Wilkinson’s, The Bergson.

Staying in remote areas without transportation can quickly limit what you’re able to do. You’ll most likely need a car or private driver in this scenario.

When a Car-Free Trip Works Best

A car-free Napa itinerary works beautifully when you limit your footprint. Stay two or three nights in one town, book wine experiences within walking or cycling distance, and dedicate a day to a guided tour or the Napa Valley Wine Train. Couples focused on relaxation, wine tastings, and dining will likely find the slower pace ideal.

By contrast, travelers who want to explore multiple appellations will likely find the logistics cumbersome without their own vehicle. Winery appointments may only be 15-20 minutes apart by car, but transportation options thin out quickly as you move north. In these cases, booking a wine tour with transportation or renting a car for a single day often strikes the best balance between freedom and convenience.

When planning a day of wine tasting in Napa Valley, one of the most common mistakes visitors make is trying to do too much. Napa rewards a slower pace, and the number of wineries you visit in a single day has a huge impact on how the experience feels.

For most visitors, the right answer is simple: two to three wineries in one day.

That range allows enough time to enjoy each tasting, travel comfortably between stops, and avoid feeling rushed or overloaded with wine by mid-afternoon. Keep reading for our top tips for planning and keeping things flexible, plus a sample itinerary that gives you time to actually enjoy what makes Napa special.

Why Two to Three Wineries Works Best

Wine tastings in Napa are not quick stops. Most experiences are designed to be seated, guided, and unhurried, often lasting an hour or more. When you factor in travel time, check-in, walking the property, and transitions between appointments, a full tasting day fills up faster than people expect.

Trying to squeeze in four or five wineries often turns the day into a schedule instead of an experience. Tastings start to blur together, conversations feel cut short, and there’s little room to enjoy the setting or ask questions.

What Slows a Napa Wine Tasting Day Down

While two to three wineries works for most people, a few factors can affect how much you can realistically fit into a day. A few practical factors tend to have the biggest impact.

• Geography and transitions
  Wineries may look close on a map, but drive time, parking, and check-in all add up, especially when appointments are spread across different parts of the valley.
• Type of tasting experience
  Seated tastings, private experiences, and library selections take significantly longer than walk-up or standing tastings.
• Pacing and breaks
  Lunch, water, and downtime aren’t optional. Skipping them usually leads to palate fatigue and a rushed afternoon.
• Group dynamics and transportation
  Larger groups move more slowly, and while having a driver helps with logistics, it doesn’t eliminate the need for breaks.

Sample One-Day Napa Tasting Itinerary

This is what a well-paced Napa day looks like when you plan for three tasting experiences, with lunch treated as one of them. We’ve focused this itinerary around Yountville and Oakville, which are centrally located in the middle of Napa Valley.

The day starts slowly, with breakfast at your hotel and a mid-morning tasting at Silverado Vineyards. The estate-grown wines and peaceful views from the outdoor terrace will ease you into the day without feeling rushed.

From there, the focus shifts to a wine-and-food experience at Sequoia Grove Winery, where a multi-course pairing serves as both lunch and a tasting. Their Wines + Bites tasting features housemade culinary pairings, but for something more substantial (and impressive), don’t miss their Cab-focused Ultimate Wine & Food Experience.

After lunch, there’s time to walk, shop, or reset in Yountville before an educational afternoon tasting at Bell Wine Cellars. From there, head back to your hotel to freshen up, then choose dinner nearby to keep the evening low-key. After a full day of tastings, most people are ready to relax rather than venturing too far.

What IF I want to do more?

Four wineries or more in one day is possible, but it only works when the day is structured differently from the start.

This typically requires:

• Keeping tastings tightly grouped, often within a single town or AVA.
• Building flexibility into appointment times, so one long tasting doesn’t derail the rest.
• Mixing formats, rather than booking four full seated experiences.
• Treating lunch as a tasting, such as a winery lunch or multi-course pairing.

Even with careful planning, many visitors find that four stops is the upper limit before the day starts to feel compressed rather than relaxed. That said, towns like Napa—where tasting rooms are clustered all within a few blocks downtown—make it easier to do so.

How This Fits Into a Longer Trip

If you’re staying for more than one day, spreading tastings across multiple days makes an even bigger difference. Two wineries per day over a weekend often feels far more relaxed than trying to see everything at once.
For longer stays, this approach leaves space for scenery, shopping, relaxing at the spa, and getting in a round of golf, as well as those unplanned moments that often become highlights of the trip.

While winter in other parts of the world can be a bit, well, frightful, winter in Napa Valley is something special. There are fewer crowds, better hotel rates, and a more relaxed feeling to start the new year. All these reasons, and more, make winter one of the best times to visit Calistoga, a charming community in the northern region of the Napa Valley known for its therapeutic hot springs and picturesque scenery.

Even more, if you visit between now and March 1, 2026, you can take advantage of the Calistoga Winter in the Wineries Passport and receive complimentary tastings at over 20 of the finest wineries throughout Calistoga and surrounding areas like St. Helena and Lake County. Plus, you’ll get access to discounts at Calistoga lodging and spas. The best part? Each Passport costs $80 per person and is valued at over $800 in wine tastings alone. So, pack your bags and kiss those winter blues goodbye, because a winter weekend in Napa’s UpCountry awaits.

Day One

Mid-Day

Welcome to Napa Valley’s “Up Valley”! Before you check in to your hotel in Calistoga, plan to venture 30 miles north to start your weekend by wine tasting in Lake County. This laid-back region, home to over 30 wineries, is one of Northern California’s best-kept secrets, and as a Passholder, you’ll get to enjoy complimentary tastings at three of its top wineries. Stop at Six Sigma Winery to sip Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon in the middle of a 4,300-acre working ranch. Besides wine, you can purchase ranch-raised meat, local cheeses, and crackers—all the fixings to make your own picnic to enjoy with your wine. Another winery in Lake County to check out is Wild Diamond Vineyards, situated high on the foothills of Red Mountain, where you can enjoy beautiful views while sipping Bordeaux varietal wines.

Now, it’s time for the scenic drive back to Calistoga to check in to your accommodation. There are plenty of options when it comes to places to stay in Calistoga (with discounts available on lodging for Passport holders), so you really can’t go wrong. If you want something right in town with a more intimate atmosphere, check out the charming, 22-room The Bergson; Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, known for their geothermal outdoor mineral pools; or UpValley Inn & Hot Springs, featuring mineral pools and complimentary bikes.

For a truly plush and pampered stay, don’t miss Solage, a quintessential Wine Country resort within the Auberge Collection, or the nearby Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley, a luxe getaway surrounded by vines.

Evening

End your first day with dinner at Evangeline, a popular French bistro “with a Creole soul” in downtown Calistoga. The covered garden patio is a nice place to savor comforting bistro classics like steak frites, as well as Creole-inspired dishes like gumbo and shrimp étouffée. Or, head to the Four Seasons to dine in style at one of their fine dining restaurants.

Day Two

Morning

If your hotel doesn’t offer complimentary breakfast, be sure to pay a visit to House of Better at Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort to start your day off on the right foot. From light, healthy fare like nut and seed granola with organic yogurt, to heartier breakfasts such as the New Mexican breakfast burrito, every dish seamlessly highlights local ingredients alongside Chef Trevor Logan’s love for Southwestern fare.

After breakfast, it’s time for wine tasting. Consider starting your day at Tamber Bey, a working horse ranch and winery, where you can sample single-vineyard, single-varietal wines and Bordeaux blends while admiring the horses. Or, check out Bennett Lane Winery, known for its friendly service, relaxed atmosphere, and bold Bordeaux blends.

More great winery stops include Sterling Vineyards, where a scenic gondola ride leads to wine tastings and culinary experiences alongside sweeping views; Castello di Amorosa, Napa Valley’s iconic winery modeled after a 14th century Tuscan castle; and Chateau Montelena, a historic Napa winery which turned heads 50 years ago during the iconic Judgment of Paris tasting.

Finally, if you feel like getting out of Calistoga, head 11 miles south to visit Markham Vineyards or Charles Krug, two St. Helena wineries known for their historic settings and well-regarded wines.

Late Afternoon

After wine tasting, head to downtown Calistoga to peruse the many shops. Stop by Blackbird for artisanal finds for the home and tabletop, as well as toys and games for kids, then check out Field Trip, a moody shop featuring curated gifts, houseplants, and flowers.

If more wine is what you’re after (hey, it is Wine Country, after all), then stroll over to Tank Garage Winery, a winery and tasting room inside a converted 1930s gas station with a hip, welcoming vibe and a focus on small-lot, natural wines.

Evening

For a casual dinner (and a break from the wine), stop into Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery, where you’ll find brews on tap and a diverse food menu featuring everything from elevated pub fare to hearty, seasonal mains. Before the night ends, unwind by one of the fire pits on the garden patio—the perfect spot for conversation and a nightcap.

Day Three

Morning

It’s almost time to head home, but before you leave, grab a pastry and coffee from Sam’s General Store, then walk over to Picayune Cellars for one last wine tasting before hitting the road. Or, plan for a rejuvenating late morning spa treatment at Dr. Wilkinson’s as you prepare to bid Calistoga, and the lovely Napa Valley, adieu.

Sure, you’ve heard about Napa Valley’s rolling vineyards and award-winning wines—but here’s the twist most visitors miss: some of the best tastings happen underground. Napa’s wine caves aren’t just storage spaces, they’re living parts of the valley’s wine story. These tunnels keep barrels cool, but they also set the stage for intimate tastings, candlelit tours, and a sense of discovery you just won’t find in a crowded tasting room.

From the small, hidden caves to the jaw-dropping ones, exploring a Napa Valley wine cave feels like stumbling onto a local secret—except the secret comes with a glass of Cabernet in your hand.

Historic & Legendary Estates

For a taste of Napa history, these estates combine heritage, reputation, and caves that carry forward traditions stretching back generations.

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

Home to one of Napa’s most famous Cabernets, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars pairs its rich history with a striking 34,000-square-foot underground cave system. Guests explore dramatic barrel-lined tunnels where a rare Foucault pendulum swings silently overhead before settling into a private chamber for a guided tasting with artisanal cheese and charcuterie. One of Napa Valley’s most distinctive cave tours, it blends science, history, and sensory delight.

Visit: 5766 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558

Schramsberg Vineyards

With a history dating back to the 19th century, Schramsberg is home to Napa’s most storied sparkling wines and a labyrinth of caves hand-chiseled in 1870 into the volcanic hillsides. The cool tunnels still house thousands of bottles undergoing méthode traditionnelle aging. Tours wind through the dimly lit caves before concluding with a guided tasting of sparkling cuvées, offering a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship and legacy that put California sparkling wine on the world stage.

Visit: 1400 Schramsberg Road, Calistoga, CA 94515

Far Niente Winery

One of the first to pioneer modern cave construction in Napa, Far Niente boasts over 40,000 square feet of wine caves, offering a rare glimpse into both history and craftsmanship. Inside, dimly lit tunnels house hundreds of French oak barrels beneath a three-tiered chandelier, with a dramatic iron gate separating the cave section housing their infamous Dolce wine barrels. The tour extends to the winery’s beautifully maintained gardens and estate, culminating with a seated tasting of library wines paired with garden-driven bites.

Visit: 1350 Acacia Drive, Oakville, CA 94562

Inglenook

Although Inglenook does not typically offer public cave tours, their historic Rutherford estate is a blend of Old World elegance and modern winemaking mastery, with extensive underground cellar facilities. Visitors enjoy tastings of legendary blends and Cabernet Sauvignons in a beautifully restored chateau setting. Special appointments can provide tours of their cellar facilities and insights into their artisanal process, reflecting the estate’s long-standing heritage and the uncompromising quality behind every bottle.

Visit: 1991 St. Helena Hwy, Rutherford, CA 94573

Caves with Serious Wow Factor

Think all wine caves are cold and dingy? Think again. These top Napa wineries showcase caves that are just plain beautiful—from chandeliers to waterfalls.

HALL Rutherford

HALL’s Rutherford winery features a 14,000-square-foot wine cave lined with historic Austrian bricks. Guests enjoy small bites with world-class wines beneath the dazzling “Chilean Red” chandelier, designed to mimic underground vine roots. The cave’s cool, consistent environment is essential to aging these sought-after wines, creating a sensorial blend of art, science, and luxury. From the stunning surrounds of the Chandelier Room, you’ll taste wines from the exclusive Platinum Collection, paired with seasonal bites from the renowned La Toque restaurant.

Visit: 56 Auberge Road, Rutherford, CA 94573

Del Dotto Estate Winery & Caves

Famed for its caves—including hand-dug caves dating back to 1885 and the more elaborate Venetian marble caves at the Estate—Del Dotto offers several dynamic cave experiences. At their Estate, the immersive Cave Experience & Barrel Tasting offers guests a comparative tasting that pairs richly oaked wines with house-made pizza in an atmosphere of Old World elegance. This flagship cave tour highlights the artistry of barrel aging in an opulent setting unlike anything else in Napa.

Visit: 1445 St Helena Hwy S, St. Helena, CA 94574

Jarvis Estate

Jarvis Estate is America’s only fully cave-based winery, featuring 45,000 square feet of cave tunneled into the Vaca Mountains. The most spectacular feature? The underground waterfall which maintains an ideal humidity level for barrel aging. Wander through vast oak fermenting tanks followed by a seated tasting of exclusive estate wines, making this a rare subterranean indulgence.

Visit: 2970 Monticello Road, Napa, CA 94558

Scenic & Elevated Tastings

When the setting matters as much as the wine, these wineries deliver cave experiences that highlight Napa Valley’s natural beauty.

Pine Ridge Vineyards

Pine Ridge’s Cellar 47 experience combines elegance and subterranean charm: guests descend into European-inspired caves 130 feet underground, surrounded by aging barrels, and enjoy intimate tastings of estate Cabernets in a setting outfitted with plush chairs, redwood tables, Persian rugs, and soft lighting. The caves stretch through more than 32,000 square feet of passageways, offering both drama and purpose—the cool, stable environment enhances aging while wrapping wines in the story of the Stags Leap AVA.

Visit: 5901 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558

Fantesca

Fantesca is not just a stunning place to visit, it also offers a glimpse of Napa’s non-wine related past. During the private tour, you’ll venture inside their caves—a former silver mine extending nearly 300 feet underground on Spring Mountain. After exploring the caves and scenic vineyard overlooks, you’ll head back into the winery for an intimate tasting of four limited-production wines. Beyond the meticulous wine artistry, panoramic vineyard views from the estate elevate the sensory journey, blending natural beauty with underground allure.

Visit: 527 Spring Mountain Road, St. Helena, CA 94574

Caldwell Vineyard

Situated 600 feet above the valley floor in the Coombsville AVA, the 123-acre Caldwell Vineyard is home to a 20,000-square-foot underground cave—voted “Best Wine Cave” by Bohemian Magazine. This boutique winery offers a private and personalized cave tasting that highlights terroir-driven wines in an intimate underground setting surrounded by exposed volcanic caldera rock. Each sip, carefully paired with cheese and charcuterie, tells a story reflective of the surrounding Hillside terroir.

Visit: 270 Kreuzer Lane, Napa, CA 94559

Dramatic Architecture & Engineering Marvels

These wineries show off caves as works of art and engineering—with striking architecture, bold design, or high-tech features that make the spaces just as fascinating as the wines themselves.

Davis Estates

Perched on a Calistoga hillside with sweeping vineyard views, Davis Estates showcases an 11,000-square-foot cave system featuring the “Cellarium,” a hidden chamber opened by biometric handprint. As the door slides back, Andrea Bocelli’s voice fills the air, revealing a sculptural monkey-pod table beneath a cascading metal-chain chandelier. While tastings here are reserved for Founders’ Club members, the Cave Tour includes a look in the caves, followed by a seated tasting in the main building overlooking the vines. A pairing of seasonal housemade bites only enhance the experience.

Visit: 4060 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga, CA 94515

Palmaz Vineyards

Carved 18 stories into Mount George, Palmaz’s gravity-flow cave is an engineering marvel where wine moves naturally through tunnels without pumps. At its core, a vast domed chamber lined with 24 fermenting tanks projects their progress across the ceiling. Guests descend by high-tech elevator to explore the tunnels before settling into an intimate salon for a tasting paired with chef-crafted hors d’oeuvres.

Visit: 4029 Hagen Road, Napa, CA 94558

Quintessa Estate

Quintessa’s biodynamic estate features sleek, modern architecture integrated into the hillside, where a gravity-flow winery and 17,000 square feet of caves serve as both functional spaces and dramatic tasting areas. The cave tour emphasizes the harmony of design, nature, and wine, culminating with a tasting of both current and library vintages.

Visit: 1601 Silverado Trail S, St. Helena, CA 94574

More Caves Worth Exploring

Maybe you’re planning a vacation to Napa Valley in 2026, or you’ve already booked the hotel and need to figure out how you’ll get there. Luckily, getting to Napa has never been easier or more convenient, thanks to the five airports nearby.

From driving distance to airline carriers and amenities, our guide to airports near Napa Valley breaks down what you need to know about each airport for your best travel experience.

Sonoma County Airport – Charles M. Schulz (STS)

About: Fly directly to Wine Country! The Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS) wins for convenience as it’s the closest airport to Napa Valley that is serviced by top carriers, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. Car rentals are available, as are ride shares like Lyft and Uber.

Distance to downtown Napa: 47.3 miles

Insider Tip: Passengers flying on Alaska Airlines from Charles M. Schulz are permitted to check up to one case of wine for no additional charge through the Alaska Airlines Wine Flies Free program. Just recently, Avelo Airlines launched a similar program, allowing your wine to travel for free from STS.

Limousine & Black Car Services:
(note: each car service below offers transportation services from all five airports)

• • Beau Wine Tours & Limousine Service
  • Pure Luxury Transportation
  • California Wine Tours

Bus & Transit:

• • Sonoma County Transit: (707) 565-7433 or 1(800) 345-7433
  • Mendocino Transit Authority: 1(800) 696-4682

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

About: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the bustling nerve center of domestic and international travel for Northern California. The airport is open 24 hours a day, with direct flights to and from many corners of the world. In fact, SFO services over 50 airlines, so you’ll have options. Most major car rental companies can be found on the fourth floor of the SFO Rental Car Center.

Distance to downtown Napa: 58.6 miles

Insider Tip: The San Francisco/Vallejo Bay Ferry provides a scenic route to Napa Valley, traveling across San Francisco Bay. The Ferry Building, located at the Embarcadero waterfront in downtown San Francisco, is accessible by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) from SFO. The Vallejo Ferry Terminal is just a block away from the Vallejo Transit Center, where you can catch the connecting bus service, The Vine, to the Napa area. Taxis and private car services are also options to travel from the Vallejo Ferry Terminal.

Oakland International Airport (OAK)

About: Although a busy international travel hub, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is slightly smaller (and therefore less crowded) than its cousin across the bay, SFO. Many major airlines serve OAK, including Alaska Airlines, Delta, and Southwest. You’ll also find a range of car rental companies to choose from, such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, and Enterprise.

Distance to downtown Napa: 50 miles

Insider Tip: If you didn’t get your fill of wine tasting in Napa, stop by Vino Volo, located in both Terminal 1 and 2. You can shop for any last-minute bottles of wine and grab one last cheeky sip or two, accompanied by small sharing plates, before your flight.

Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

About: Sacramento International Airport (SMF) iis smaller than Oakland or SFO, making it easier to navigate. This airport’s redesigned terminal includes an elevated people mover and concourse. Airlines such as American, Delta, JetBlue, United, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest offer numerous non-stop flight options. Car rental companies are plentiful, just note the car rental shuttle offers pick-up approximately every ten minutes to transport visitors to the on-airport rental car terminal.

Distance to downtown Napa: 63 miles

Insider Tip: There are 53 direct flights to Sacramento International Airport, both domestic and international (Mexico and Canada). Scroll their list to see if you’re a non-stop flight away from visiting Wine Country!

Napa County Airport (APC)

About: Napa County Airport, “The Skyport to Wine Country,” is a very small local landing strip that services charter flights and private aircraft only. Originally built by the United States Army Air Forces in 1942, the airport recently completed a runway rehabilitation project. You can now fly directly to this airport on your own chartered plane or, if you’re a licensed pilot, by flying yourself. Of course, flying private comes at a cost; prices range from $9k – $25k+. To charter your own plane to or from Napa, contact Napa Jet Center.

Distance to downtown Napa: 9 miles

Insider Tip: Note there are no car rentals available from this airport, so plan to arrange a car service in advance.

Limousine & Black Car Services:

• • Beau Wine Tours & Limousine Service
  • Pure Luxury Transportation
  • California Wine Tours

Additional Pro Tips:

WineCountry Experiences: Discover and book our marketplace of curated experiences in Napa Valley, from cycling tours to exclusive tastings and much more.

Covet Pass: A unique membership offering complimentary wine experiences, hotel and travel discounts, access to events, and additional fun perks.

Lodging Deals: We have partnered with the leading hotels and resorts in Napa Valley to offer our users exclusive perks, such as complimentary bottles of wine at check-in, resort credits, and wine tasting passes.

Ah, Napa Valley in harvest season—it’s like the world’s most delightful conveyor belt from grape to glass! Between August and October, there’s something in the air as Napa transforms with the buzz of vineyard workers, the scent of fresh grapes, and, oh, those grapes? They’re on a one-way journey to becoming some fantastic wine.

But there’s more to Napa’s harvest than just winemaking. Want to dine with a winemaker? Or perhaps you’ve always wanted a behind-the-scenes peek at the winemaking process? Well, this is your season! From unique festivities to vibrant vineyard views, Napa Valley during harvest is an experience you won’t forget. Here’s your guide to visiting during harvest season.

Wine Tasting During Harvest Season

Before you lock in tasting reservations, do a quick check to see if the winery offers any special tours of their property, vineyards, or wine making facilities during harvest, because it’s always a treat to see winemakers and winery teams working their magic.

You can never go wrong with a picnic amidst the vines at Pine Ridge Vineyards (it’s the quintessential Napa activity, right?), but if you happen to be traveling with a larger group, don’t miss Merryvale’s Blind Tasting Experience. You’ll discover how to analyze wine through taste and smell rather than sight alongside an expert guide in the historic Cask Room.

Up for a stroll through vineyards? Bell Wine Cellars’ Grape to Glass Tour & Tasting starts with a stroll through their Yountville vineyard, exploring the site’s unique terroir. You’ll then take a look at the tank and barrel rooms before finishing with a tasting of five wines.

While not exclusive to harvest season, Hess Persson Estates’ ATV Vineyard Tour & Tasting is a more adventurous way to venture beyond the tasting room into the vineyards. You’ll hop into an ATV to explore the historic estate, traversing its picturesque grounds before ending with a wine and culinary pairing.

Of course, if you’d rather kick back and let someone else do the planning, book a tour with Beau Wine Tours. They offer several Napa Valley wine tours to choose from, whether you’re a Napa newbie, a Howell Mountain wine fanatic, or simply fancy an afternoon exploring Spring Mountain’s gems.  

WineCountry Experiences

One last thing before we move on: don’t overlook the WineCountry Experiences offered in Napa Valley. You can’t go wrong with any of them (they’ve been vetted by a picky crowd—ahem, we mean us), but we are seriously loving the following:

• Cabernet Pairing Experience at Sequoia Grove (yum!)
• Vineyard Experience at Crocker & Starr (an al fresco delight) 
• Seasonal Culinary Experience at Silver Oak (your stomach will thank you)
• Bottle Blending Experience at Judd’s Hill (be a winemaker for a day)
• Cookie Pairing Experience at Tamber Bey (a fun alternative to cheese pairing)

Dining During Harvest Season

Napa Valley cuisine is like a treasure trove of culinary excellence, and believe us when we say that most restaurants in Napa have mastered the art of seasonal cooking.

As the name implies, FARM Restaurant + Bar at the serene Carneros Resort and Spa features an elevated menu emphasizing locally sourced produce, including from the restaurant’s own organic gardens. Every dish here is like a love letter to Napa Valley’s seasonal ingredients. Another fabulous spot is The Charter Oak, showcasing food by acclaimed chef, Christopher Kostow. Their dishes are usually composed of just a few ingredients and celebrate the bounty of the region, but don’t mistake simplicity for boring, as everything here is a feast for the senses. Speaking of a feast for the senses, we’re seriously loving the Italian-French-inspired fare and elegant atmosphere at Violetto, Alila Napa’s fabulous on-site restaurant.

If you’re looking to meet the newest culinary talent of Napa Valley’s Wine Country, we recommend grabbing a table at the Culinary Institute at Greystone’s Gatehouse Restaurant. As the capstone experience for aspiring chefs, guests can expect an innovative menu highlighting creative cooking. Or, venture to the CIA’s downtown Napa location, CIA at Copia, a treasure trove of food, wine, and culinary events.

A quick tip: There’s a lot of excitement during harvest, but there are also a lot of travelers, so that coveted table at that picture-perfect restaurant? It’s in high demand. We suggest making reservations in advance at your favorite Napa Valley restaurants to ensure you have a seat saved at the table.

Events During Harvest Season

Many wineries have special harvest events going on during the season. We’ve spotlighted a few of the season’s happenings below, but you can visit our Events Listing page to view more harvest events this time of year.

1. On September 20, Groth Vineyards & Winery hosts the next phase of their “Summer School” series: the Groth Vineyard & Cellar Walk. This family-friendly experience is a chance to walk the vineyards, learn about what happens in the cellar during harvest, and dine with the Groth team during a picnic-style lunch on the lawn.
2. On September 21, PEJU Winery is hosting their Harvest Festival and Grape Stomp, which includes a lively grape stomping experience and a family-style lunch with wine pairings. Sounds like a blast!
3. This September 27, Reynolds Family Winery will welcome guests for their Harvest Party. Guests are invited to join for an evening of library wines and seasonal bites, incredible hospitality, and fun activities like their grape stomping competition. It’s a fun, relaxed way to toast to the 2025 harvest season!
4. On October 11, Merryvale will host a Harvest Brunch at their picturesque Profile Estate Vineyard. Join Proprietors René and Laurence Schlatter as they release their 2022 Profile and 2023 Silhouette wines, paired with an indulgent al fresco brunch crafted by Chef Nash Cognetti.

Of course, the harvest fun isn’t limited to just Napa Valley. If you’re heading to Sonoma County, check out our guide to Harvest in Sonoma, featuring tips on where to stay, what to do, and where to taste the best of the best.

Where to Stay in Napa

Oh, trust us, we know that a day of culinary adventures and wine escapades in Napa needs to end in absolute comfort. So, get ready to hit the sack in style, because the hospitality in Napa Valley is as top-notch as the Cabernets. Here are a few spots to consider:

Need more hotel inspiration? Be sure to check out all of our Lodging Perks for exclusive deals on hotel stays throughout Napa Valley, from special discounts and spa credits to complimentary bottles of wine upon check-in.

Harvest is Wine Country at its most magical—when the vines are buzzing, the cellars are alive with fermentation, and the region is bursting with energy. Starting in late summer, Napa Valley celebrates with grape stomps, vineyard feasts, and unforgettable parties. Don’t wait too long to snag your spot, though—tickets sell out faster than a glass of Cab disappears at a family dinner.

Grape Stompin’ Fun

It’s a little wet, a bit squishy, and oh so very fun. These harvest parties let you experience a taste of the time honored tradition of stomping grapes.

PEJU Harvest Festival & Grape Stomp

Date: September 21, 2025, 12 PM – 3 PM
Cost: $185 per person / $155 Club Members

Roll up your pants and join PEJU for their beloved harvest celebration. The afternoon features tastings of current releases, a seasonal family-style lunch, and the chance to stomp grapes barefoot for prizes—a true nod to Napa tradition.

Napa Valley Wine Train x Grgich Hills Grape Stomp

Date: September – October, 2025, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Cost: From $325 per person

All aboard for one of Napa’s most unique harvest traditions! The journey begins with a gourmet multi-course meal on the vintage-inspired Napa Valley Wine Train, followed by a stop at Grgich Hills Estate to stomp grapes, taste wines, and learn the story behind this historic Napa Valley winery.

Winery Harvest Celebrations

Celebrate the 2025 vintage with wine, food, and outright fun at one of these Napa Valley winery harvest parties.

Kathryn Hall Harvest Celebration

Date: September 6, 2025, 6 PM – 10 PM
Cost: $350 (9/3 update: Event is sold out, but you can join the waitlist)

This glamorous annual celebration honors the release of the 2022 Kathryn Hall Cabernet. In addition to a beautiful farm-to-table meal within the vines, expect plenty of wine and festive fun to be had by all.

Reynolds Family Harvest Party

Date: September 27, 2025, 4 PM – 7 PM
Cost: $100 per person / $75 for Club

Celebrate the harvest season, Reynolds-style, with great food, library wines, and a fun grape-stomping competition—the perfect way to toast harvest in Napa Valley.

Tamber Bey Harvest Party

Date: October 12, 2025, 12 PM – 4 PM
Cost: $95 per person

Kick off harvest at Tamber Bey with an afternoon of live music and delicious food paired with the 2022 vintage red wines. It’s a wonderful way to soak in the laid-back ranch vibes this Calistoga winery is known for.

V. Sattui’s Crush Party

Date: October 17, 2025, 6 PM – 10 PM
Cost: $185 per person / $150 for Club

This legendary open-house style harvest bash combines the energy of a festival with the charm of a family-run winery. Guests can stomp grapes, dance to live music by Reckless Envy, feast on wood-fired pizzas and BBQ, and sip from more than 45 wines in one unforgettable night.

Howell Mountain Harvest Celebration

Date: November 8, 2025, 1 PM – 4 PM
Cost: $175 advance / $350 at the door

Taste the bold, mountain-grown wines of Howell Mountain without leaving downtown Napa. More than 40 wineries will pour alongside chef-made small bites at downtown’s CIA at Copia—it’s the perfect way to sample the wines grown ‘above the fog’ without the drive.

Brunch, please.

Get the wine tasting and meal eating started early, because these wineries are serving up brunch with an extra side of harvest fun.

Merryvale Profile Brunch

Date: October 11, 2025, 11 AM – 2 PM
Cost: $295 per person / $245 for Club

Raise a glass to the release of Merryvale’s 2022 Profile and 2023 Silhouette wines! Indulge in a lovely al fresco afternoon filled with exquisite new releases and a multi-course brunch experience crafted by Chef Nash Cognetti. Live music and dancing only add to the day.

Markham Vineyards’ Blue Boots Brunch

Date: September 28, 2025, 10 AM – 12 PM
Cost: $85 per person / $55 for Club

Celebrate harvest in style at Markham’s festive brunch, where cowboy boots are encouraged attire. Guests will enjoy a seasonal menu by The Brunch Boys, line-dancing lessons, and new release wines, all inside the winery’s historic stone cellar.

Hands-On Harvest

You can’t properly celebrate the grape harvest without getting your hands a little (or a lot) dirty. Don’t worry, your hard work will be rewarded.

Fantesca’s Hands-On Harvest

Date: September 19, 2025, 9 AM – 1 PM
Cost: $500 per person / $300 for Club

For those who want to do more than sip, Fantesca offers a true behind-the-scenes harvest immersion. From sampling grapes in the vineyard to sorting fruit and helping with punchdowns in the cellar, the morning ends with a celebratory al fresco lunch paired with Fantesca’s highly acclaimed wines alongside selections from the private cellar of owners Susan and Duane Hoff.

Hands On Harvest at Trefethen Family Winery

Date: September 13, 2025, 10 AM – 4 PM
Cost: $280 per person / $224 for Club

Start the day with an in-depth vineyard tour, with the opportunity to pick grapes, before heading to enjoy an outdoor lunch under the shade of a walnut tree. Afterwards, you’ll head to the Courtyard for a sampling of current release wines.

It’s Not Just About Wine

Harvest isn’t just about picking grapes to make wine—these celebrations offer a different slice of harvest fun in Wine Country.

Round Pond Olive Harvest Celebration

Date: November 15, 2025, 10 AM – 12 PM
Cost: $75 per person / $50 for Club

Round Pond may be known for its wine, but it’s also renowned for its estate olive oils. Experience the bounty of olive harvest season during this fun event, where you’ll see the Olive Mill in action and enjoy light bites showcasing the fresh oils.

More Harvest Events!

Love what you’re seeing? Then check out all the Harvest Events in Napa Valley and Sonoma County.

For a fresh take on Wine Country afternoons and evenings, Napa Valley’s rooftop bars and terrace bars offer the perfect blend of elevated ambiance, valley vistas, and handcrafted cocktails. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a sunset tipple or for a chic spot to unwind with a cocktail, these sky-high escapes and vineyard-view terrace bars offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

Rooftop Bars: Sip With Downtown Napa Views

Andaz Mercantile Terrace

Tucked on the roof of the second floor of the Andaz, the Mercantile Terrace is a cozy hideaway in downtown Napa with fire pits, cabanas, and rocking chairs. Think relaxed luxe: perfect for a fire‑side cocktail or a peaceful brunch. Featuring happy hour specials, daily food and drink service, and trivia on Thursdays, there’s always a reason to post up and hang out.

Visit: 1450 First Street, Napa, CA 94559
Contact: (707) 687-1234

Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at the Archer Hotel

Perched six flights above the city, Sky & Vine at the sleek Archer Hotel is the quintessential rooftop experience in Napa Valley. Set against sweeping valley views, cozy fire pits, and olive-tree canopies, this is where locals and travelers gather for shareable plates, seasonal cocktails, and even soft‑serve with all the mix‑ins. The vibes are effortlessly elegant yet approachable—especially with fun weekday specials like Oyster Mondays, Taco & Tequila Tuesdays, and Wing Wednesdays.

Visit: 1260 First Street, Napa, CA 94559
Contact: (707) 819-2490

Wilfred’s Lounge

Tucked along the riverfront in downtown Napa, Wilfred’s Lounge stands out as Napa Valley’s only tiki-themed rooftop bar. With island-inspired cocktails, rum flights, and shared cocktail bowls, it’s a playful escape above the Napa River. Whether you’re drawn to the “Uma Ube” (white rum with pineapple and ube) or the classic “1944 Mai Tai,” you’re in for a vibrant, tropical spin on Wine Country.

Visit: 967 First Street, Napa, CA 94559
Contact: (707) 690-9957

Terrace Bars with Scenic Views

Salvia Outdoor Terrace Bar at Alila Napa Valley

Tucked into the serene grounds of Alila Napa Valley, Salvia Terrace Bar offers a chic indoor-outdoor setting framed by lush surroundings and vineyards. The relaxed yet refined lounge invites you to sip seasonally inspired cocktails, a glass of local wine, or a refreshing spritz while soaking in the golden light of St. Helena. With plush seating, fire features, and an enticing all-day menu, it’s a sophisticated spot for a happy hour drink or post-dinner nightcap.

Visit: 1915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574
Contact: (707) 963-7000

The Bar at Auberge du Soleil

Perched high above the valley floor, Auberge du Soleil offers incredible Wine Country views. From the expansive terrace of the main dining room, you can take in sweeping hillside views that stretch across olive groves, vineyards, and distant mountain ridges—especially magical at golden hour. At The Bar, a refined yet more casual atmosphere blends French-inspired charm with relaxed Napa hospitality, making it a perfect spot for a glass of bubbly, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or a leisurely cocktail paired with light bites.

Visit: 180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford, CA 94573
Contact: (800) 348-5406

TRUSS Bar at Four Seasons Napa Valley

At the heart of Calistoga’s Four Seasons Resort, TRUSS Restaurant + Bar pairs contemporary elegance with stunning vineyard and mountain views. Floor-to-ceiling windows and an open-air terrace invite you to linger over inventive cocktails or a glass from their well-curated Napa Valley wine list. Whether you’re catching the late afternoon sun or settling in after dinner, the setting feels both polished and warmly inviting—ideal for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxed nightcap after exploring the northern part of Napa Valley.

Visit: 400 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 709-2100

Our top pairings in Napa Valley often include delectable food, dynamic wines, and breathtaking views. While Wine Country is legit ripe with all three, when their powers combine and you add in a 36-mile, round trip journey on board the famed Napa Valley Wine Train, you’ve got a combination that packs a whole lot of punch.

The Wine Train has been a staple since the 1980s, and if you’ve had the opportunity to check out the region, you’ve probably seen their historic rail cars chugging alongside Highway 29. Perhaps, you’ve been curious on how it all works—and we’re here to help.

That’s right, we’ve tackled your biggest question: what ticket is right for me? We did a deep-dive to create the definitive guide to help you on your way. Between food-filled rides, behind-the-scenes wine tours, and seasonal splendor, you’re going to want to climb on board, and our extra information may be just the ticket to make it happen ASAP.

Meals with a side of Napa views

Were you aware that the Napa Valley Wine Train is actually a restaurant on wheels? Beyond serving up a delicious Napa Valley meal, the train is also keeping train travel tradition alive with their dining journey offerings. This meal is one you’re going to remember, and it comes served piping hot with world-class, bucolic sights rolling by right outside your window.

Gourmet Express Lunch or Dinner

Refurbished Pullman cars play host for this gourmet getaway, a 2.5-to-3-hour train ride that includes a multi-course meal for lunch or dinner. Explore the train, check out the kitchen, peek at the vintage details and original artwork, and grab a selfie on the caboose’s viewing deck. Elevate your experience with the Master Sommelier tasting, featuring wines from such Napa Valley legends as BV and Opus One.

Vista Dome Lunch or Dinner

If an intimate dining adventure is more for you, book the multi-course lunch or dinner ride in the Vista Dome. The second story of their 1952 Pullman is domed with curved windows that run the length of the car, giving the ultimate in views of The Valley. Elegant and exclusive, this experience offers a picture-perfect backdrop for any memorable moment, regardless of the season (think golden hour views in spring and summer, and starry evening skies in fall and winter).

Tasting on the Rails

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Napa Valley during this epic wine-ing and dining experience aboard the Wine Train’s 2022 Pullman lounge car. During the three-hour Tasting on the Rails journey, you’ll savor seven incredible courses expertly paired with seven local Napa Valley wines, as you pass through the very appellations where the grapes for said wines were sourced.

Pro Tip: Dietary restrictions? No problem! With advance notice, the Wine Train’s talented culinary team will cook up something delicious within your health requirements.

Special Themed Events

Murder Mystery Dinner

Enjoy two hours of murder mystery theatrics during this fun immersive event, which will have you playing a game of cat and mouse with your fellow dinner guests. Of course, a gourmet, three-course dinner rounds out the experience, promising an evening of delicious food and delightful hijinks!

Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving, let the talented team aboard the Wine Train take care of the food (and the dishes). You’ll embark on an elegant, 3.5-hour journey through Napa’s stunning landscapes as you feast on an incredible Thanksgiving-inspired multi-course meal, all without having to lift a finger in the kitchen.

Santa Train Journeys

A yearly tradition, late November through December, the Wine Train welcomes Santa on board for special holiday journeys. From Santa’s Cookie Car, perfect for the little ones looking to enjoy a cup of warm cider or cocoa and a holiday cookie, to the Gourmet Holiday Express, complete with a kid-friendly, three-course dinner and a photo with Santa, there’s something for every child (and the child in all of us) aboard the Wine Train during the holiday season.

Midnight in Paris: A Legacy NYE Celebration

Make New Year’s Eve a day to remember with the ultimate Legacy train experience. You’ll start the morning with a tasting of sparkling wine before devouring a three-course brunch, followed by a stop at Grgich Hills Winery to enjoy a two-hour party with small bites and wine while counting down to the midnight ball drop in Paris. On the way back, keep the party going strong with dancing in the open-air car.

Pro Tip: Many of the Wine Train’s dining rides are all ages, but a few tours are 21+. Be sure to confirm prior to finalizing your itinerary.

Wine Tasting Journeys

It wouldn’t be Napa Valley without ample sips involved, and the Wine Train has made it as easy as clicking a button to experience exclusive peeks at what makes Wine Country tick. These rides are packed with flavor and are an outstanding way to experience a great winery or two with sensational tours.

Grgich Hills Estate Tasting

Wine history buffs might get all a-flutter with this Daytripper destination. Napa Valley was put on the map when it comes to wine with the famed 1976 Judgement of Paris. Unsure of this key event in Wine Country history? We have you covered. Miljenko “Mike” Grgich made his mark by crafting a Chardonnay that beat out the French at a blind tasting as a very young winemaker at Chateau Montelena. The creation of Grgich Hills followed up this monumental event. While Mike passed away eight months shy of his 100th birthday, his daughter Violet Grgich continues the family legacy. Experience the wines of this iconic St. Helena locale during your three-hour train journey, complete with lunch and a stop at the winery for a tasting.

The Legacy Experience

This full-day adventure goes beyond your average history lesson, diving deep into over 300 years of combined winemaking experience here in The Valley. With visits to Charles Krug, V. Sattui, and the Napa Valley Welcome Sign (hello, photo opps!), you’ll be able to celebrate the deep-rooted legacy of the region. A four-course meal is served between winery stops on board, and this six hour tour is one that’ll make your history books.

Pro Tip: Beyond planning out sensational train tours of Napa Valley, the Wine Train has also rounded up special offers when it comes to vacation packages and overnight stays to make it easy to plan out your Wine Country excursion from start to finish.

Who’s ready for a family vacation to Napa? We know what you’re thinking: Napa Valley, with kids? But hear us out—beyond the tasting rooms and vineyard views lies several activities perfect for the whole fam. Whether you’re looking to fuel curious little minds, burn off energy, or just soak up some good old-fashioned sunshine, Napa’s got you covered.

What makes Napa Valley a good destination for families?

Napa offers more than wine—think scenic parks, farm visits, fun train rides, and family-friendly restaurants, making it a great getaway for all ages.

How to balance adult and kid-friendly activities?

Mix wine tastings at kid-welcoming spots with fun outings like the Wine Train, farmers markets, or nature hikes to keep everyone happy.

Ready for more? Here’s your guide to making unforgettable memories with the whole crew, because visiting Wine Country isn’t just about tasting wine!

The Top Things to do with Kids in Napa Valley

Explore the Area by Bike, Train, or SUP

Hop Aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train

While the grown-ups sip and savor, kids will be wowed by the vintage railcars and scenic ride through the valley. Book a daytime experience with the Napa Valley Wine Train and watch their eyes light up as the train glides past rows of grapevines. Come November and December, The Wine Train celebrates the festive season with its annual Santa Train excursion—a popular family tradition for kids of all ages.

Bike or Walk the Napa Valley Vine Trail

Looking for a low-key way to explore Napa Valley? Rent bikes (kids’ sizes available!) in downtown Napa or Yountville and cruise along the car-free Napa Valley Vine Trail, a paved trail for biking or walking. Stop for snacks or let the little ones get some energy out in Yountville Park, which is home to a playground and plenty of space to run around.

Get Out on the Water With Napa Valley Paddle

Change up the pace with a water adventure along the scenic Napa River. Napa Valley Paddle offers family-friendly kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals, with self-guided routes that wind past marshlands and downtown Napa’s historic waterfront. It’s a fun way to get moving, see a different side of Wine Country, and maybe even spot some local wildlife. First-time paddlers are welcome—no experience necessary!

Let Them Have Animal Encounters

Meet Farm Animals at Connolly Ranch

Let your kids trade screens for the sweet smell of hay and fresh air. Connolly Ranch in Napa is a working farm that’s all about connecting children to nature. It’s known for its farm animals, edible garden, and duck pond. Check their calendar for open house dates and fun programs, like farm-to-table classes designed for the whole family.

See Giraffes at Safari West

Okay, Safari West is technically in Santa Rosa, but it’s not too far from Calistoga and so worth the detour. This 400-acre wildlife preserve is where kids (and let’s be honest, grownups too) can spot giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs on a real-deal open-air safari. It’s basically like dropping into a Nat Geo special—with the added perk of being back in Napa in time for dinner.

Water Fun: Poolside Plays & Geyser Sightings

Make a Splash at the Calistoga Pool

When the temps climb (and they often do this time of year), cool off like a local at the Calistoga Community Pool. This outdoor pool is tucked in a charming corner of town and offers family swim hours, a diving board, a large lawn, and a dedicated kiddie pool. Grab a towel, sunscreen, and let the cannonballs commence.

See Old Faithful Geyser

Just outside of Calistoga lies one of Napa Valley’s coolest natural wonders—Old Faithful Geyser. This geothermal geyser puts on a show every 15 to 30 minutes, erupting high into the air to the delight of kids and adults alike. While you wait, you can wander through the small animal farm where goats, alpacas, and horses await friendly faces. There’s also a geology museum and a shaded picnic area—perfect for a midday break.

Engage Their Minds With Art & Outdoor Time

Get Curious at di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art

Art museums and toddlers don’t usually mix—but the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art is the delightful exception. With sprawling outdoor spaces, interactive exhibits, and larger-than-life sculptures nestled into the landscape, families can explore freely. Think of it as a choose-your-own-art-adventure for all ages. Plus, it’s an affordable Napa Valley activity, as it costs only $5 for minors ages 5-17 (children under five are free).

Visit Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

Looking for a nature escape that feels like a true adventure? Head to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, located between St. Helena and Calistoga. Here, you’ll find shaded hiking trails beneath towering redwoods, a cool creek for splashing, and picnic spots galore. History buffs will enjoy touring the nearby Bale Grist Mill, where a water-powered mill still grinds flour just like it did in the 1800s.

Eat Well With the Whole Family

Dig In at Oxbow Public Market

There’s something about Oxbow Public Market that just works for families. Maybe it’s the open layout, the gourmet-meets-casual food stalls, or the fact that everyone can order exactly what they want—from wood-fired pizza to fresh oysters and cupcakes. Grab a table by the river and soak it all in. There’s also a bookstore inside, so you can pick up some new books for the kids to read at your hotel or on the drive home.

Eat at Gott’s Roadside

This popular California diner is a hit with families—offering classic burgers, fries, milkshakes, plenty of picnic tables, and a laid-back, communal vibe where kids can stretch their legs while you dig in. While there’s a great Gott’s Roadside location in Napa, their St. Helena spot is the most iconic.

Explore the Napa Farmers Market

Held twice a week (Tuesdays and Saturdays), the Napa Farmers Market is more than just a place to pick up peaches—it’s a vibrant community hub that lets you mingle with locals. Let the little ones sample honey, chat with farmers, and watch food demos while you shop for picnic provisions or locally made gifts. Bonus: it’s dog-friendly, so the whole family can tag along.

Visit Napa’s Old-Fashioned Candy and Chocolate Shops

No family adventure is complete without a treat. Head to the longstanding Vintage Sweet Shoppe in downtown Napa for ice cream, milkshakes, and chocolates galore. Psst—There’s also wine tasting available for the adults. At Annette’s Chocolates, also in downtown Napa, house-made brittles, truffles, and creamy caramels take center stage, or pop into Sweetie Pies Bakery for delectable cookies and pies. Trust us: sugar-fueled smiles guaranteed.

Top Family-Friendly Wineries in Napa Valley

Believe it or not, Napa Valley has several wineries that cater to more than just adult palates. While many tasting rooms are designed with grown-ups in mind, of course, some spots go the extra mile to make families feel welcome. Here are just some of the family-friendly wineries in Napa to visit.

HALL
While parents sip award-winning Cabernet, kids will love exploring the outdoor art installations and oversized bunny sculpture on the lawn.

Beringer
One of Napa’s most historic estates, Beringer offers family-friendly grounds to explore and grape juice tastings for the little ones.

Charles Krug
With spacious lawns, shaded picnic tables, and wood-fired pizza, Charles Krug offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where kids can stretch out and play.

Castello di Amorosa
A medieval-style castle straight out of a storybook—complete with grape juice flights and dungeon tours.

Oasis by Hoopes Vineyard
Set on a whimsical farm sanctuary, kids can meet rescued animals like pigs, goats, and donkeys while parents enjoy boutique wines in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Practical Tips for Visiting Wineries with Kids

Plan ahead by choosing wineries that welcome families—look for outdoor spaces, farm animals, or kid-friendly perks like juice tastings. Book tastings earlier in the day when kids are fresh, and bring snacks (if outside food is permitted) and plenty of water. Don’t forget sun protection. And most importantly, keep visits short and sweet—happy kids make for a more enjoyable experience for everyone.