12 Best Things to do in Napa, California

Dreaming of a scenic California escape? Napa is calling your name!

We’ve explored this stunning region every way we could think of, from floating above the valley in a hot air balloon to cruising through sun-drenched vineyards on a vintage trolley. So we figured it was time to share our favorite experiences in one handy guide, because these adventures are just too good to keep to ourselves.

With its laid-back charm and unforgettable landscapes, Napa delivers far more than just a pretty view. From luxe limo rides to fun e-bike experiences, we’ve rounded up the seven best things to do in Napa to help you plan the perfect escape. Cheers!

Napa at a Glance

Napa Valley is much more than just wineries. Between world-class restaurants, charming towns, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to fill your itinerary. A few local tips will help you make the most of your visit!

Important Tip: Napa reservations fill up fast—book wineries and restaurants well in advance!

Visit during the shoulder season: Harvest season (August through October) is an exciting time to visit, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive. For fewer crowds, lower hotel prices, and beautiful weather, consider visiting in spring (March to May) or late fall (November).

Rent a car or book a wine tour: While downtown Napa is easy to explore on foot, the wineries are spread throughout the valley, and public transportation is limited. Renting a car is the easiest way to get around, but if you plan to wine-taste, booking a guided tour or hiring a driver is the safest and most relaxing option.

Pace yourself during wine tastings: It can be tempting to squeeze as many wineries as possible into one day, but you’ll have a much better experience by limiting yourself to two or three tastings. Drink plenty of water, enjoy a good meal between stops, and don’t be afraid to use the spit buckets—they’re there for a reason!

How I would spend 3 days in Napa

Day 1: Grab breakfast at a local favorite, spend the day on a wine tasting tour, and wind down with a cozy dinner of Neapolitan classics at Scala Osteria & Bar. 

Day 2: Kick things off with a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, explore Sonoma on a food and wine tour, then relax in the afternoon before tapas (and ice cream!) near the river.

Day 3: Choose between an e-bike adventure or trolley wine tour, explore Oxbow Public Market, and round off your trip with an incredible Japanese dinner and rooftop drinks.

Read our full itinerary here to see exactly how we spent three days in Napa!

Things to do in Napa

1. Take in panoramic views of vine-covered hills from a hot air balloon

Normally, getting up before dawn isn’t my idea of a good time, but this sunrise hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley is totally worth it! You’ll get to watch the vineyards slowly light up beneath you as you drift higher and higher. It’s pure magic!

The meeting point for this tour is just outside Sonoma, which is about a 20-minute drive from Napa. You might still be half-asleep when you arrive, but you’ll quickly wake up thanks to the pre-flight coffee and pastries. The pilot will even let you help with the setup, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how everything comes together.

Once the balloon lifts off, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Napa’s rolling hills, sprawling vineyards, and picturesque countryside as the sun rises over the valley. The peaceful flight offers a unique perspective that feels almost dreamlike and is easily one of the most memorable ways to experience Napa.

After a gentle landing, you’ll return to the launch site with plenty of incredible photos and memories from an unforgettable morning above wine country.

This hot air balloon ride is something that you’ll remember long after you leave Napa, and as cheesy as it sounds, it’s worth every penny. I mean, there’s a reason that it has hundreds of glowing reviews! However, its popularity means that it pretty much always sells out, so don’t hesitate to grab your spot now.

2. Taste your way through Napa Valley on a relaxed small-group wine tour

If you’re looking for a relaxed way to explore Napa Valley without the hefty price tag of a private driver, this small group wine tour is an absolute gem! Tastings were at our own expense, which I actually loved because it meant we got to choose exactly what we wanted to try at each place and tailor the day to our own tastes. 

And in terms of logistics, this tour couldn’t have made things any easier for us. We didn’t need to spend time researching and choosing which locations we wanted to visit. Instead, we just showed up and got to experience three of the best vineyards that Napa has to offer. They were all so different from one another, so we got a well-rounded taste of the region. 

We also enjoyed a lovely picnic lunch, with gorgeous views of rolling vineyards. It was nice and casual, but totally delicious!

I also loved the fact that this was a small group tour, as it felt much more personal than a big bus experience. It gave us the chance to get to know our fellow tour mates!

This tour offers the perfect blend of structure and flexibility. And there are plenty of five-star reviews here that attest to this, so you don’t just have to take our word for it! 

3. Escape the crowds on a redwood hike in Napa Valley

It might surprise you, but Napa Valley isn’t just about world-class wineries and vineyard views. If you’ve had your fill of wine tastings or simply want to experience another side of the region, this guided redwood hike is a fantastic way to mix things up. Instead of hopping between tasting rooms, you’ll spend the morning surrounded by towering coastal redwoods, peaceful forest trails, and the sounds of a bubbling creek.

This small-group tour takes you to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, where you’ll follow the beginner-friendly Redwood Trail through Ritchey Canyon. At just 3.25 miles (5.2 km), the hike is manageable for most fitness levels, making it an easy adventure even if you’re not a regular hiker. Along the way, your guide will point out the area’s unique plants and wildlife while sharing interesting facts about the local ecosystem.

One of the best parts is how easy the whole experience is. Hotel pickup and drop-off from Napa are included, park entrance fees are covered, and with groups capped at just 10 people, you’ll enjoy a much more personal experience than on larger tours. 

Don’t forget to bring along some local wine and snacks to enjoy beneath the towering trees after your hike. It’s a peaceful break from Napa’s busy tasting rooms and a refreshing way to experience the valley’s beautiful natural side.

4. Take a cooking class

Sure, Napa Valley is famous for its wine, but its food scene is every bit as impressive. So why not swap a wine glass for a chef’s knife and learn a new skill while you’re here? A hands-on cooking class at The CIA at Copia is a fun way to experience Napa beyond the tasting rooms.

Located in the lively Oxbow District, the Culinary Institute of America’s Napa campus offers classes for every skill level, so there’s no need to be an experienced cook. You might spend an afternoon learning to make fresh handmade pasta from scratch or discovering the secrets behind authentic tacos. If baking is more your thing, there are also classes on French pastries and other sweet treats. 

You’ll also find wine and cocktail workshops, family-friendly classes, and even multi-day boot camps if you’re ready to take your culinary skills to the next level.

Most classes last between two and five hours, making them easy to fit into your itinerary. Plus, after you’ve finished cooking (and eating!), you can wander through the expansive culinary gardens or grab a bite at the on-site restaurant. It’s a delicious way to experience another side of Napa Valley, and you’ll leave with recipes you can recreate long after your trip is over.

5. Ride a vintage trolley through Napa and sip wines at top local wineries

If you’re looking for a tour in Napa with some serious novelty factor, then I suggest you climb aboard the wine trolley, STAT! We had the best time riding around in a replica of one of San Francisco’s iconic cable cars, enjoying the gorgeous views and visiting four wineries!

Our guide, Richard, was awesome, and the vibe on the trolley was friendly and upbeat. Everyone was ready to chat, sip, and enjoy the day together!

We visited four locations and loved discovering the unique charm of each one. We got to hang out at a small family-run spot, pose at chic tasting rooms, and relax with sweeping vineyard views. And yes, it was just as blissful as it sounds!

Tastings weren’t included in the ticket price, but this meant that we got to pick and choose what we wanted to sample, which was perfect. We did get lunch at one of the stops, though. It was so nice to sit down, enjoy some good food, and take in the scenery without feeling rushed. 

This trolley tour is such a fun and easy way to go wine tasting without worrying about driving, directions, or making reservations. It’s all handled for you! If you’re after something a little quirky but still classic Napa, this trolley adventure is a total win.

Related Read: If you’re wondering how to put these experiences together, we did the work for you with our 3-day Napa itinerary covering the best activities, restaurants, and tips!

6. Pedal through vineyards and enjoy tastings on a guided e-bike tour

If you’re looking for a fun and active way to experience Napa Valley, this e-bike tour is hard to beat! The electric bikes do most of the work for you, so you can cruise through wine country without breaking a sweat.

The route covers between 3 and 6 miles (5–10 km), depending on the day, and all of your winery reservations are arranged in advance. Plus, if you pick up a few bottles along the way, there’s no need to carry them around—a shuttle will collect your purchases for you!

Cycling through Napa Valley is a highlight in itself. While you’ll ride alongside traffic for a few short stretches, most of the route follows peaceful roads surrounded by rolling vineyards and beautiful countryside.

Along the way, your guide will stop at scenic viewpoints and share fascinating stories about Napa’s history that you probably wouldn’t discover on your own. You’ll also visit two excellent wineries, each with its own unique character. One might be a cozy family-run estate with a lovely garden patio, while the other offers a sleek tasting room with sweeping vineyard views.

Midway through the tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch from a popular local bakery before setting off for more wine tasting. With small groups, it’s easy to chat with your fellow riders, making this a fun and social way to experience Napa Valley.

So if you’re up for a little pedal power and a lot of wine, this tour is an awesome way to experience Napa Valley from a whole new perspective.

7. Explore Oxbow Public Market and downtown Napa

Wine may have put Napa on the map, but downtown is where you’ll find some of the city’s best food, shopping, and local flavor. Oxbow Public Market is the perfect place to kick off an afternoon of exploring some of the city’s best food, shopping, and local charm all within walking distance.

Start at Oxbow Market, a lively indoor marketplace filled with artisan food vendors and specialty shops. Grab breakfast or a coffee from The Model Bakery—their famous English muffins have even made Oprah’s Favorite Things list! Or stop by Hog Island Oyster Bar for fresh oysters and a glass of local wine if you’re visiting later in the day. With everything from handmade chocolates to locally crafted olive oils and spices, the market is the perfect place to pick up a few edible souvenirs.

Once you’ve had your fill, wander through downtown Napa’s charming streets. Browse the shelves at Bookmine, an independent bookstore that’s been a local favorite for decades, or stop into one of the many boutique tasting rooms dotted around First Street.

When you’re ready for a break, grab a coffee at Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company and relax on the patio while soaking up the lively atmosphere. It’s a slower-paced side of Napa that many visitors overlook, and a great way to experience the city beyond the vineyards.

8. Unwind with a spa day in Calistoga

After a few days of wine tasting, treat yourself to a little relaxation in Calistoga, Napa Valley’s famous spa town. Located about 30 miles (48 km) north of downtown Napa, Calistoga is known for its natural hot springs, mineral-rich waters, and volcanic mud baths, a tradition that’s been drawing visitors here for over a century.

One of the best places to experience it all is Golden Haven Hot Springs. Their signature volcanic mud bath is unlike anything you’ve probably tried before, combining warm volcanic ash, mineral water, and peat in a deeply relaxing soak. Couples and friends can even enjoy the experience together in the same treatment room, making it a fun activity to share.

To make the most of your visit, add on a massage after your mud bath, then spend some time soaking in the natural hot-spring mineral pool. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready for another day of exploring Napa Valley.

Even if you don’t book a spa treatment, Calistoga is well worth visiting for its charming downtown, local restaurants, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a refreshing change of pace and a unique side of Napa Valley that many first-time visitors miss.

9. Ride the iconic Napa Valley Wine Train

Sure, you could drive through Napa Valley, but why not let someone else do the work while you sit back with a gourmet meal and soak up the scenery? This Napa Valley Wine Train ride is one of the region’s most iconic experiences, combining incredible food with a relaxing journey through California’s famous wine country.

As you roll past rolling vineyards, grand estates, and charming towns like Rutherford and St. Helena, you’ll travel aboard beautifully restored vintage railcars that feel like they’ve been lifted straight out of another era. Large picture windows mean you won’t miss a single vineyard view, and you’re free to wander between the train cars, taking in the elegant atmosphere or even stopping by the kitchen to watch the chefs prepare your meal.

Speaking of food, this isn’t your average train dining experience. Your ticket includes a freshly prepared three-course gourmet lunch, along with a welcome glass of sparkling wine, so you’ll be treated to delicious dishes while the stunning Napa landscape rolls by outside. It’s the kind of leisurely experience that encourages you to slow down and savor every bite—and every view.

While the train doesn’t stop for winery visits, it’s less about wine tasting and more about enjoying the journey itself. Between the beautiful scenery, attentive service, and unique vintage setting, it’s easy to see why so many travelers call this a bucket-list Napa experience. 

10. Indulge in a full-day private wine tour with concierge planning

If you’re serious about wine, this private wine tour is the way to go. It includes a concierge service, and it made us feel totally taken care of.

Our personal wine concierge reached out to us well in advance to speak to us about our wine preferences and craft our perfect itinerary. And as we found out, it really does pay to have a personal wine expert in your corner!

On the day itself, our driver, Dean, was the perfect blend of professional and personable. He navigated the winding roads of Napa and Sonoma with ease while sharing insider stories about the wineries we visited. He also gave us some fantastic recommendations on which wines to try! 

Not having to worry about driving meant we could fully relax and savor each glass without a care in the world. And the concierge service took the guesswork out of the day. We just showed up, and everything was ready to go. 

This is a seamless, first-class experience that makes you feel like a true VIP in wine country. If you’re a wine lover looking to elevate your Napa or Sonoma visit, this is hands down the best way to do it.

11. Spend a day on Lake Berryessa

If you’re craving a little adventure, head about an hour north of Napa to Lake Berryessa. This scenic lake is the perfect place to swap vineyards for wide-open water and enjoy a day in the great outdoors.

Whether you’re looking to relax or get your adrenaline pumping, there’s something for everyone. Lake Berryessa Boat & Jet Ski Rentals has everything you need, including kayaks, paddleboards, fishing boats, and jet skis, so it’s easy to get out on the water. Anglers will also love casting a line here, as Lake Berryessa is known for its excellent bass and trout fishing. Just remember that anyone 16 or older will need a valid California fishing license before dropping a line.

Prefer to stay on dry land? Lace up your hiking boots and tackle the Smittle Creek Trail, a peaceful lakeside hike with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and water. It’s a great way to stretch your legs before cooling off with a swim or picnic by the shore.

Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or just looking for a break from wine tasting, Lake Berryessa offers a refreshing change of pace and a chance to experience another beautiful side of Napa Valley.

12. Cruise through wine country in a limo with tastings, views, and VIP vibes

If you’re looking to celebrate in serious style, this private limo tour through Napa is the ultimate way to do it! Designed for groups of up to eight people, it’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable day in wine country. Even if you’re not usually one for luxury, there’s something about pulling up to a winery in a sleek black limo that makes you feel like a total VIP.

Before your tour, you’ll chat with your chauffeur to customize the perfect itinerary. They know all the best wineries, from iconic estates to hidden gems, and they’ll take care of all the timing and logistics, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy cruising from vineyard to vineyard in style.

One of the biggest perks of booking a private tour is the flexibility. Instead of following a fixed schedule, your chauffeur will help create an itinerary that’s tailored to your group. Whether you’re hoping to visit Napa’s iconic wineries or discover a few hidden gems, you can explore at your own pace and make the most of your day.

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a movie star for the day, this tour definitely delivers. Between the personalized itinerary, luxury transportation, and the freedom to explore Napa Valley at your own pace, it’s an unforgettable way to celebrate a special occasion. And don’t just take our word for it—check out over a hundred five-star reviews and see why it’s such a hit!

Where to Stay in Napa, California

Now that you know how to explore the Napa Valley in style, you just need a great place to stay! We like downtown Napa as it’s a super convenient spot for tour pickups, and there’s plenty to see and do here. Yountville is also a good choice as it’s convenient, scenic, and well-known for its amazing restaurants! 

From luxury resorts to charming inns, Napa offers something for every budget and style. From sleek, modern stays to rustic vineyard retreats, these are our top three picks—just be sure to book soon if they’re still available, as spots this good don’t last long!

Luxury – $$$

For an upscale stay in the heart of Yountville, The Estate Yountville is hard to beat. This elegant resort pairs luxurious accommodations with one of Napa Valley’s best locations, putting Michelin-starred restaurants, boutique shops, and renowned tasting rooms all within walking distance. Spacious rooms feature plush king beds, private balconies or patios, cozy bathrobes, and gourmet coffee makers for a relaxing stay.

The resort itself feels like a destination. Enjoy the complimentary breakfast buffet before unwinding by one of the three pools or treating yourself to a massage or spa treatment, complete with soaking tubs, steam rooms, and saunas. With excellent restaurants like Bottega and Clementine on-site, you may never want to leave. 

Rooms typically range from $700 to over $1,000 USD per night. Check availability and reserve your stay here!

Mid-range – $$

For a stylish, laid-back stay in the heart of Napa, R Inn Napa is our top choice! This boutique property offers a blend of modern comfort and historic charm, with beautiful rooms and luxe bathrooms with walk-in showers. When you’re not out wine tasting, you can unwind in the beautifully landscaped garden or kick back in the stylish shared lounge.

The inn’s location is unbeatable. It’s just a 6-minute stroll from the Napa Valley Opera House and a quick 13-minute walk to the Oxbow Market, where the aforementioned Wine Trolley starts! Plus, with free on-site parking and easy access to downtown Napa’s best restaurants and tasting rooms, it’s a perfect base for exploring wine country. 

Queen rooms here usually cost between $375 and $525 USD per night. Reserve your stay at R Inn Napa on Booking.com!

Budget – $

RiverPointe Napa Valley Resort offers great value in the heart of Napa! It’s a laid-back resort that offers spacious accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, patios, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can unwind by the outdoor heated pool, squeeze in a workout at the gym, or grill up dinner at the BBQ facilities. What more could you need?

Despite being a bargain by Napa’s usual standards, this hotel is ideally positioned for exploring the area. The studios and cottages here are also super comfortable and airy. If you’re looking for a serene stay that won’t break the bank, this is it!

Stays here start from $215 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

For more options, check out all of Napa’s listed hotels here!

Related Read: Still deciding? Read our detailed guide on where to stay in Napa for a breakdown of the best neighborhoods and hotel picks.

Thanks for reading!

Napa is everything we hoped for—lush, scenic, and full of unforgettable ways to experience the rolling countryside. From hot air balloon rides to cozy tastings at boutique vineyards, we hope this guide helped you plan the kind of trip you’ll be talking about for years. Whether you’re coming for a weekend escape or a longer getaway, Napa makes it easy to unwind in style.

Planning more adventures in the States? Check out all our USA blogs here—we’ve got plenty of firsthand tips to help you plan something amazing! Or check out a few of our most-read blogs below for even more great travel tips.

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