Through the Grapevine: A Napa Valley Guide

The Napa Valley Wine Train: With over 150 years of history, the Napa Valley wine train is an amazing option to check a bunch of boxes on your trip. Whether if it is multiple tasting stops, a tea service experience or something in between — there definitely is an excursion that will be your speed.

Oxbow Public Market: Nestled within downtown Napa, Oxbow is a curious traveler's paradise. The multi-use building hosts a variety of vendors that not only offer amazing food and drinks, but includes other spots to shop local Napa products for potential souvenirs.

Rail Arts District (RAD): The RAD is a two-mile art walk in Napa that doubles as a biking trail. Following local train tracks, the community decided to make use of this stretch of unused space to show off contemporary art in a free and accessible way!

Napa Valley Vine Trail: Speaking of trails, you can extend your outdoor excursion along Napa's Vine Trail, a 47-mile stretch ranging from Vallejo Ferry to Calistoga. While the last couple of sections are still under construction, the trail connects a ton of the valley's most popular spots along a paved, multi-use path.

First Street Napa: First Street in downtown Napa is the heart of shopping in the valley. From luxury, to boutique, to local shops — pretty much every style is covered along this bustling street. Definitely check out Maker's Market and Gallery 1870!

B Spa at Bardessono: Napa has plenty of spa experiences to offer, but B Spa was my favorite (try the salt stone massage!). Being connected to the Bardessono Hotel helps create an air of exclusivity while also maintaining the zen atmosphere that you'd expect.

Napa Valley Balloons: Turns out, checking out the valley is even more stunning from above! An amazing romantic option, a hot air balloon tour gives a totally new perspective to wine country.

Napa Valley Bike Tours: Prefer to use your spin class skills? The beauty of Napa is that SO many popular spots are accessible by foot or bike! Plus, if you prefer a little more structure, try one of the tours offered to help you get your bearings (I will say, the e-bike upgrade is clutch).

Wine

Staglin Family Vineyard: Somewhat secluded and hinting at old money, Staglin is the perfect tasting stop for someone who wants to avoid the hustle and bustle of bigger wine makers. While they're known for their world-class cabernet sauvignons, definitely check out their Ineo label. Plus, if the grounds look familiar, it was featured in the movie The Parent Trap!

Pride Mountain Vineyard: Pride is a much larger operation and a little out of the way to get to, but it's absolutely worth it. With sweeping views between Napa and Sonoma counties, it's hard to not see the magic of Napa when you're touring their facilities. If they're serving their viognier or syrah, definitely try those out.

Seven Apart: Seven Apart is an anomaly in the wine-making community. The entire facility and production was stood up in just over six years, which is truly a breakneck speed. It was all worth the hassle as they make some of the most nuanced, memorable cabernet sauvignons I've had in a while. Also, their facilities and tasting room are absolutely stunning.

Dakota Shy: I'm usually very picky about rosés, but Dakota Shy makes one of the best ones I've had in a hot minute. Another location that's off the beaten path, their tasting room feels like a comfortable living space where you can truly relax. If you have the chance, also try their "Ten" and "Atlas" cabernets!

Dine

Bouchon Bakery: A popular breakfast option under the leadership of Thomas Keller, Bouchon offers nearly every pastry your heart could desire. The shop itself is fairly small, so don't be surprised if you see a line — but items like their macarons, éclairs and pains au chocolat are worth it.

Pizzeria Tra Vigne: Not quite a hole-in-the-wall, Tra Vigne scratches the itch for decent Italian food for a reasonable price. Their cocktails are super refreshing and every pizza lover will find their perfect pie on their menu (but don't sleep on the pasta, either).

Bistro Jeanty: Just a stone's throw away from Bouchon in Yountville, Bistro Jeanty will make all of your French food dreams come true. They focus on true French bistro food versus anything more high-end, and the appreciation shows. Grab a half bottle of white, a couple of their specials, and you'll be more than set.

Angèle: Another spot for great French cuisine! Angèle is a popular option for dinner, and for good reason. Their service is excellent, their menu has a little bit of everything and their drinks are phenomenal (I've tried recreating their Angèle spritz at home with semi-limited success).