Awesome Things To Do in Napa Valley
A Passionate Local’s Guide to the Best Spots in Napa
What to do in Napa: The Inside Scoop from a Napa Native.
Calendar Of Events
In Napa Valley
Napa has plenty of activities and sights to offer! In No Way Is This A Complete List for things to do in Napa Valley. For more detailed information and ideas it’s probably best to come meet me and pick my brain – Justin = Napa’s Walking Encyclopedia.
For a Calendar Of Events In Napa Valley Click Below
Events In Napa This Weekend, Nightlife & More
Comedy & Live Music In Napa
As a general rule there will be live music on the weekdays as follows:
Monday = Jax
Tuesday = Palisades Brewery and Embassy Suites
Wednesday = Blue Note
Thursday = Elks Lodge, Downtown Joe’s, Brendell Wines & Archer Hotel
Kayaking Napa Valley
Enjoy Napa Valley
Do something Unique with Enjoy Napa Valley provides the most reliable and friendly kayak rental, paddleboards and is internationally known for the Napa River History Tour. Located conveniently at the City of Napa Main Street Dock, Napa River kayak rentals, paddleboarding, and kayak tours are available from April 1 through November 30.Â
What is Napa?
Napa, or Nappa (the original spelling) is located in the heart of California Wine Country, and is known for its natural beauty and high-quality wines and food. It appeals to nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike.Â
Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat,a scenic view or an exciting paddle adventure on a kayak, Napa offers a blend of beauty, historical attractions, outdoor adventures, events and a rich culinary scene that guarantees a memorable experience for all.Â
What is Napa? It’s a beautiful valley in Northern California with stunnings landscapes, fun events and in Napa you will find some of the best food and wine in the world.
Author’s note: Nappa Leather was created at our local tannery. It is still used worldwide for car Interiors and furniture today.
Where to Eat In Napa Valley
Oh boy, this can be a looooong list. If we know each other and I didn’t list your restaurant, please understand there is a lot to cover, and I do appreciate you! I personally will not recommend anything in Napa that I don’t have personal experience with.
Mexican Food
If you are from Out Of The Country, we highly recommend you try real Mexican Food while in Napa visiting California. The best Mexican cuisine will always be found right in Mama’s kitchen. However, we have several other suggestions as well.
Up valley, In Rutherford try.
La Luna Market: http://lalunamarket.com
This place was established the year I was born and is still going strong. Delicious traditional Mexican Food. It is to go but there are picnic tables set up out back, along a beautiful Napa Valley Vineyard.
Downtown Napa
Taqueria Rosita – Killer Mexican Food.
Affordable and fast. We have come to the conclusion that buying tacos from Taqueria Rosita is the best lunch deal in Napa downtown. Â https://taqueriarosita.com
Don Perico
Weekday lunch specials. https://www.donpericos.com
Taqueria Maria
Located along the Napa River, and they often have a great live mariachi band on Friday nights. https://www.taqueriamaria.com
Los Agaves
Upscale Mexican Food, Located close to our location by the main street dock. They also often have dancing on the weekends.
Other Restaurants near us on the Napa River.
Waterfront Seafood Grill
Besides sushi, this is the only restaurant we have dedicated to seafood in Downtown Napa. The service is amazing, and the food is wonderful. They also have excellent bartenders, staff and drinks. If you’re feeling romantic try the Caviar and Champagne pairing. https://waterfrontseafoodgrill.com
Morimoto’s
Morimoto is one of the Iron Chef’s. If available, ask for Amir as your server and tell him we sent you. He is the best server in Napa IMHO. I realize you would never think of ordering the ribs in a sushi place, but they have the best ribs in Napa. We also recommend the Morimotini for a cocktail and the duck fat fries and white fish carpaccio to start.
Then choose whichever sushi fits your fancy and for dessert we currently recommend the cheesecake (the desserts do change , from time to time.) http://morimotonapa.com/
Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia Napa is the newest Napa restaurant by famous ‘Iron Chef’ Masaharu Morimoto. It’s not just about Japanese food here—Chef Morimoto brings you a mix of yummy Chinese, Thai, and American dishes, along with tasty dim sum. You will not find sushi here, but you will find delicious ramen and dim sum in the Asian Fusion style.
The menu is full of exciting flavors and modern takes on classic favorites, giving you a unique dining experience that tells a story through every bite. Come and explore the world of tasty wonders created by the talented Iron Chef Morimoto himself at Morimoto Asia in Napa. Also, every other Friday night they have a DJ, so you can dance the night away.
Where to Stay
Discover top-rated accommodations in Napa Valley, from luxurious resorts to cozy bed-and-breakfasts.Â
Downtown Napa Hotels
Napa River Inn
This historic inn is located at the foot of Main street along the Napa River, in the heart of downtown Napa. This property has absolutely beautiful gardens and art. The Napa River Inn is located steps from fine restaurants and other activities in Napa. The staff are wonderful & we interact everyday.
Archer Hotel Napa
Experience the best of Downtown Napa at the Archer Hotel. Enjoy a sophisticated stay in the heart of the city and take in stunning views from the renowned rooftop bar. Explore the local charm and indulge in the urban luxury that the Archer Hotel has to offer.
Bed & Breakfast
White House Inn Napa
White House Inn is a delightful bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of valley. Located in the historic bajo district it is a short walk into the heart of downtown. Enjoy a relaxing stay in the cozy and inviting rooms, indulge in a gourmet breakfast, and explore the neighborhood.
https://www.whitehouseinnnapa.com
1801 First a Luxury Inn
White House Inn, is a delightful bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of the valley. Located on First Street, It is a short walk to live music, restaurants and other events.
Vacation Rentals
RiverPointe Napa Valley
Riverpointe Napa Valley, offers cozy cottages for vacation rentals along the Napa River. Experience the tranquility of the riverside setting and enjoy a peaceful retreat amidst the beauty of Napa’s natural landscapes. This is the place we recommend staying if you are on a budget.
Local Breweries
We have had a saying in the Napa Valley for longer than I can remember – “It takes a lot of Good Beer to Create Great Wine.”
You can imagine when you are around wine everyday – for example working 18 hour days during Crush – the last thing you want to do is see another drop of wine. Therefore, it should be no surprise that breweries are extremely popular in the valley.
Downtown Joe’s
We call this place our office, because we often have lunch here, and can see our returning kayaks and paddleboards rentals from the tables by the river. A good portion of the staff have been at Downtown Joe’s for over a decade, and there are a few that have been working at Joe’s for over twenty years.
We believe this says a lot about the family that owns the place. This is one of the best places to meet locals and get breakfast, lunch or dinner in a relaxed and down to earth setting. https://www.downtownjoes.com
Trade Brewing
Trade Brewing is a local favorite. The staff and brews are great and it is conveniently located near the Oxbow Market. They often have live music and other events on the weekends and Trade is one of my favorite breweries in the valley. https://tradebrewing.com
St. Clair Brown
Elaine St. Clair Brown is one of the only women in the world who is both a master brewer and winemaker. Located in the heart of a garden on Vallejo Street, It is an excellent place to beer and wine in their charming greenhouse. They also host events, such as a speak easy. https://www.stclairbrown.com
Calistoga Inn
This iconic restaurant, brewery and Inn located on the Napa River is always a joy to visit. Their food, brews and service has always been wonderful in our experience. Enjoy handcrafted brews and other offerings along the river in the historic town of Calistoga.
Date Night & Romance In Downtown Napa
When I take that someone out for a date I like to take that special someone to several places, so it’s almost as if it is several dates in the same evening. Here is one set of ideas to spark the romance.
The Rooftop Bar, Sky & Vine at the Archer Hotel.
Appetizers and wine is a great way to elevate your experience at the Sky & Vine Rooftop bar, located atop the Archer Hotel in vibrant Downtown Napa. You can enjoy wine, beer or even a whiskey crafted in the Napa Valley with delectable bites while soaking in breathtaking panoramic views of the valley.
Unfortunately, after multiple genuine attempts, I cannot recommend the cocktails here, whether the bland margaritas or the dirty martinis served with no olives, and my other attempts, the cocktail experience is underwhelming. Service also can at times be a bit slow.
I still however recommend the Sky & vine for the views, the experience, the Lobster Corn dogs and other small bites, as well as their live music and Napa Valley whiskey. The Sky & Vine is an excellent way to begin your romantic evening.
Author’s Note: All of the following locations I can recommend the cocktails.
Dinner at Ristorante Allegria
Ristorante Allegria is my default location for family events such as birthday parties and other family get-togethers. It is also a beautiful restaurant for romance. Although we highly recommend the desserts here, we are going to suggest skipping the dessert and save it for our next location.
Dessert at Eiko’s, Tempura Fried Brownie A La Mode, A Secret Menu Item
This is not on the menu so request it. It is a must-try that is a hit with the locals who know. Eiko’s Tempura Fried Brownie. It is absolutely delicious. Eiko’s is definitely worth exploring for dinner in its own right. If you do have dinner here I suggest starting with the Healthy Fries and Blackened Edamame and the Neko Chan – A salmon Roll with a slice of lemon!
They have many unique specialty rolls to tempt your taste buds that are worth exploring. Just don’t forget to leave room for the Tempura Fried Brownie!
Summary
Whether kayaking & Outdoor adventures, natural beauty or some of the finest wine and food in the world come see us and Enjoy Napa Valley.
Napa Valley Bike Tours
We have partnered with a trusted local outfitter to offer bike tours. Napa Valley Bike Tours are the most popular and one of the best ways to Enjoy Napa Valley.
Napa River Food And Wine Tour
Your experienced Napa tour guide will welcome you at the first of four stop on this unique Napa Food and Wine
Tour.
group winery tour (Sonoma County)
Sonoma County is one of the premier places in Northern California to taste wine, and your expert tour guide can’t wait to show you around.
Napa Valley Hotels and Lodging In Napa valley
Lodging and accommodations in the Napa Valley include a full range of hotels, spas, vacation rentals, resorts, and bed and breakfasts. Read our Reviews before booking…
Things to Do with Kids What To Do In Napa
One of the questions we are asked often is what can we do with Children in the Napa Valley. As parents who live here we have found several gems for fun activities with children.
Cheap Eats = Affordable Restaurants, Eat Cheap In Napa
Affordable places to eat when on a budget. Enjoy this Video and article on affordable places to dine.
A Short Video About Us
Affordable places to eat when on a budget. Enjoy this Video and article on affordable places to dine.
Hidden Gems and Secrets 3
Affordable places to eat when on a budget. Enjoy this Video and article on affordable places to dine.
Hidden Gems & Secrets 2
Affordable places to eat when on a budget. Enjoy this Video and article on affordable places to dine.
Hidden Gems & Secrets 1 What To Do In Napa
Enjoy Napa Valley’s Hidden Gems and Secrets Part 1. Butter Cream Bakery, Regussi Winery, Tempura Fried Brownie, Culinary arts Museum, Vinyl records and more. Come and Explore our Hidden Spots!
12 Things to Do In Napa Besides Wine
12 Things you covered! to do in Napa Valley Besides Wine If you want to plan a trip to the Valley, but want to check out attractions besides wine? We have you
covered!
17 Wineries to Check Out
Feeling a little overwhelmed looking for the right wineries?, there are so many to choose from, they all offer something unique. Our insider’s guide can help you find awesome wineries.
Recap of Best Spots in Napa
Tips for Exploring the Area
Seriously if you want more information just come see me. I’m a walking encyclopedia about the Napa Valley and some people refer to me as the mayor 🙂
Remember it’s (supposed to be) wine tasting not drinking. Two to Four wineries max in a day. Our wine in Napa Valley is more potent than most wines. Try to drink twice as much water as wine and eat. Do not be afraid to dump wine – especially if you don’t like it. be respectful and keep track of and know your own limits.
