While Napa Valley is world-renowned for its exceptional wines, there’s so much more to explore beyond the vineyards and tasting rooms. From scenic outdoor adventures to vibrant arts and culinary experiences, Napa offers a diverse range of activities that appeal to all kinds of travelers.
We’ll uncover 11 engaging things to do in Napa Valley besides wine tasting, perfect for those looking to discover the region’s natural beauty, culture, and unique charm. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another trip, these experiences will add new dimensions to your Napa Valley adventure.
Shopping and Boutiques
Downtown Napa is also a great destination for shopping and boutiques. The Oxbow Public Market is a must-visit destination for foodies. This indoor market features a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and meats. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, head to First Street Napa. This outdoor shopping center features a variety of high-end boutiques and shops, including Napa’s only Apple Store.
Dining and Foodie Experiences
Downtown Napa is also a foodie’s paradise. There are plenty of dining options to choose from, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. For something a little more casual, head to the Oxbow Public Market. In addition to the vendors selling fresh produce and artisanal products, there are also a variety of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious meals. For a very special occasion, you might try getting a reservation at The French Laundry, a world-renowned restaurant with a focus on French cuisine and farm-to-table ingredients.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
A hot air balloon ride is one of the most popular activities in Napa Valley. It offers a unique perspective of the valley’s beauty. There are several companies that offer hot air ballooning services, and Napa Valley Balloons is one of the most popular ones. During the ride, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the valley and the vineyards. It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a romantic getaway.
Napa Valley Train Experience
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Napa Valley, consider taking a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train. This vintage train takes you on a scenic journey through the valley, offering stunning views of the vineyards and mountains along the way. The train features a variety of different experiences, from gourmet meals to wine tastings to special events. The Vista Dome Package is a popular choice, which includes a four-course meal and tours and tastings at three well-known wineries.
Hiking and Biking
Napa Valley offers some of the most scenic hiking trails and bike tours. There are several bike rental shops available in the area. You can even rent an electric bike to make it a little easier. There are guided tours for all levels of experience. You can also rent a bicycle and explore the valley on your own. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several trails to choose from. The Oat Hill Mine Trail is one of the most popular ones, offering breathtaking views of the valley. The trail is 8.3 miles long and is rated as moderate.
Kayaking on Napa River
Kayaking on the Napa River is a great way to explore the valley’s natural beauty. You can rent a kayak from several rental shops in the area. One of the popular ones is the Kayak Napa Valley. They offer guided tours and rentals for all levels of experience. While kayaking, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the valley and spot some of the local wildlife. It’s a great activity to do with friends and family.
Napa Art Walk
The Napa Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour of public sculptures throughout downtown Napa. You can pick up a map at the Napa Valley Welcome Center and take a leisurely stroll through the city to view the artwork. The sculptures change every two years, so there’s always something new to see.
Napa Valley Opera House
The Napa Valley Opera House is another historic venue that offers a variety of live performances, from plays to dance to musicals. The opera house has been beautifully restored and is a great place to catch a show. Check their schedule to see what’s playing during your visit. In addition to these venues, there are also several art galleries throughout the valley that showcase local artists. Check out the Jessel Gallery or the Quent Cordair Fine Art gallery for a taste of Napa Valley’s artistic side.
Hot Springs
Another popular spa experience in Napa Valley is soaking in hot springs. Hot springs are naturally heated mineral pools that are said to have therapeutic benefits. Napa Valley has several hot springs to choose from, including Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort and Calistoga Spa Hot Springs. In addition to mud baths and hot springs, many spas in Napa Valley offer a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Some spas even offer packages that combine multiple treatments for a full day of pampering.
Cooking Class at Culinary Institute of America
If you’re looking to improve your cooking skills, the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena offers a variety of cooking classes. You can learn how to make everything from classic French cuisine to farm-to-table dishes using local ingredients. The classes are taught by professional chefs and are suitable for all skill levels.
Food Tasting at Oxbow Public Market
Located in downtown Napa, Oxbow Public Market is a foodie’s paradise. The market features over 20 vendors offering everything from artisanal cheese to fresh seafood. You can sample local specialties like Napa Valley olive oil and honey, or indulge in a gourmet sandwich or salad. Oxbow Public Market also hosts regular food events, such as cooking demonstrations and tastings.
Old Faithful Geyser
Located in Calistoga, Old Faithful Geyser is a natural wonder that has been erupting regularly for over a century. The geyser shoots a column of hot water up to 60 feet in the air every 30 minutes. You can watch the geyser erupt and also explore the surrounding gardens and animal park.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.