Things to Do in Napa Besides Wine Tasting
Napa has a way of automatically conjuring up images of copious amounts of free-flowing wine. While we’re certainly not opposed to that, there are so many other adventures to be had in Napa Valley that are as diverse as its wine selection.
Whether you’re a nature lover, art enthusiast, or self-proclaimed foodie, California wine country is spilling over (pun intended) with things to do.
The warmer weather along with the area’s stunning natural beauty makes this the perfect time to get out and enjoy all the Napa region has to offer.
1. Savor other flavors. On top of all the fine wines, Napa also has some of the best food anywhere, with rich soil that makes for ideal growing conditions. Check out the world-class Napa Farmers Market for fresh farm-to-table produce.
2. Take the scenic route. Head out on a leisurely drive down scenic Highway 128 and marvel at Napa’s stunning scenery as your meander through the valley. Pack a picnic with your farmer’s market finds and pick a spot to enjoy.
3. Perfect your swing. Grab your clubs and check out one of Napa Valley’s five public golf courses, including the impressive 150-acre Chardonnay Golf Club, where you’re invited to play as many rounds of 18-holes as you can handle.
4. Pedal it out. Rent a bike and cruise along the 12.5 miles of the Napa Valley Vine Trail. Yes, this ride has adorable vineyards inviting you to stop all along the way, which also means wine, but at least you’ll have to work for it a little!
5. Try a new kind of happy hour. Trade your merlot for a mat and come vinyasa in a vineyard at RiverPointe Napa Valley—a perfect (and healthy) way to relieve stress with the Napa River providing your backdrop.
6. Chase that waterfall. Did you know Napa features an incredible waterfall? We’ll be honest, we didn’t either. Enjoy a beautiful wildflower-dotted nature trail on a 5-mile hike up to the plunging Mt. George waterfall.
7. Take a walk on the wild side. Experience a lesser-known, more rugged side of Napa by heading out on a one-of-a-kind adventure like a full moon hike or a wildlife tracking tour, organized by the Napa Land Trust.
8. Check out the art scene. The di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art sits on 217 scenic acres filled with multiple galleries, a sculpture park, and even a lake. All of the featured contemporary exhibits are by regional artists.
9. Go jump in a lake. Cool off with some good old-fashioned water fun at Lake Berryessa, one of the largest bodies of water in California where you can waterski, SUP, boat, waterski, swim, and fish. Lake Tahoe, who?
10. Relax in a mud bath. Chill out after all the other fun you’ve had by indulging in one of the area’s signature mud bath treatments, a centuries-old custom used to release toxins and soothe muscles that will leave you feeling completely rejuvenated.
Make RiverPointe Napa Valley your home base for all your Napa Valley adventures. Tucked away along the Napa River yet less than five minutes from downtown Napa, private cottages come complete with full kitchens and patios that pair perfectly with wine aficionados, foodies, and everyone in between. To simply get away for a night or two, or to extend your vacation by a few days, check out GPX Nightly Getaways for access to nightly rentals at exclusive Owner rates.