First Time Guide to Napa Valley

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Advisor - Gianna Quattrini
Curated By

Gianna Quattrini

  • Napa Valley

  • Yountville

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Outdoors

  • Sightseeing

  • Shopping

Fall in Napa
Curator’s statement

Napa is, of course, known for its wine, but it also offers amazing food, culture, wellness and adventure, too. The mild winters give visitors the chance to enjoy it while it's quiet. Fall shows off beautiful colors and foliage, and in the spring and summer there are beautiful wildflowers. Whether staying in Yountville, St. Helena or Napa, there's a place for everyone no matter your taste.

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Where to stay In Napa Valley

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Things to do In Napa Valley

The French Laundary

Hot air balloon rides- a common and adventurous way to experience Napa’s beauty!

Bike tours- self-guided or with a hired guide on regular or e-bikes.

Golf- Napa is a premier golf destination with beautiful courses.

Hiking- visit one of the local preserves or state parks that are full of redwoods or beautiful lakes.

Napa River- hire a gondola or go boating, kayaking or paddle boarding on the Napa river.


Wineries- there are hundreds of options in Napa. Let me know what wines you like and I can point you in the right direction.

Spa and wellness - if you’re ready to unwind after lots of eating and drinking, there are countless spa therapy options.

Napa Valley Wine Train- if you're a train enthusiast and are looking to experience the vineyards by train, this is a fun alternative.

Places to eat & drink In Napa Valley

Oxbow Market

Oxbow Market- fun indoor market right beside the river featuring a wide array of local food vendors.

Model Bakery- artisanal bakery serving breakfast and lunch.

La taberna- delicious spanish tapas.

Oenotri- pizza and Southern Italian fare in a fun setting.

French Laundry- Thomas Keller’s iconic farmhouse prefix. If you’re celebrating something special, this is not to be missed.

Charter Oak Restaurant- seasonal, family-style Californian fare.

Bouchon Bistro- classic French bistro.

Rutherford Grill or R+D Kitchen- if you find yourself in Rutherford of Yountville, these Hillstone restaurant group eateries serve fantastic American classics.

Some of my favorite wineries include: Sinegal, Quintessa, Stags Leap, Cliff Lede and Promontory. Reservations needed.

Advisor - Gianna Quattrini

Travel Advisor

Gianna Quattrini

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Ann Tan's guide, Ultimate Guide to Napa Valley.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Napa Valley.