Napa, California
Wine Flies When You’re Having Fun.
Lat. 38.297539 | Long. -122.286865
Napa County
The Napa Valley Region Contains Over 500 Wineries. C&C Visits A Few Of The Cools Ones Below.
The origin of the word "Napa" is disputed?
The word "Napa" is of Native American derivation and has been variously translated as "grizzly bear", "motherland," or "fish". Of the many explanations of the name's origin, the most plausible seems to be that it is derived from the Patwin word napo, meaning "house.” Go figure.
Napa, California.
- 94559 -
Napa, the county seat of Napa County, California, lies at the heart of the renowned Napa Valley wine region. Its downtown boasts charming late-19th and early-20th century architecture, a scenic riverfront promenade lined with shops and dining options, and a vibrant arts scene centered around the Napa Valley Opera House. The Oxbow Public Market features a lively farmer's market and a specialty cheese shop, while the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a nostalgic journey to local wineries aboard vintage Pullman cars. Our Favorite Napa Real Estate Agents.
Historic Napa In Photos.
Nearly ninety years ago, the men of the Napa Chamber of Commerce published a 24-page booklet titled Beautiful Napa: A Pictorial Journey. Despite the limitations of black-and-white images and aging paper, the booklet conveys a compelling story that still resonates today.
The cover, featuring sailboats moored along the river—likely after a country regatta—offers a glimpse into the Napa Valley's "brand" at the time. The opening pages highlight the region’s mild temperatures, sunny days, and stunning natural beauty. And then, as if to capture the essence of everything cherished then and now, the message is boldly declared in capital letters: “THE IDEAL PLACE FOR HOME.” READ MORE.
Step aboard their meticulously restored 100-year-old Pullman train cars, offering a chance to experience the elegance of early 20th-century rail travel. Before your journey begins, take time to admire the refined atmosphere and luxurious details in each rail car.
Napa Valley Wine Train,
1275 McKinstry Street,
Napa, CA 94559
Phone: 1-800-427-4124
Although the Napa Valley Railroad began operating in 1864, the story of the Wine Train began in the early 1980s with Vince DeDomenico. Inspired by the idea of reviving the historic Napa Valley Railroad, DeDomenico sought to recreate the golden age of travel, offering a curated experience with antique railcars for a truly iconic Napa Valley journey. His vision brought an elegant, luxurious way to travel through Napa’s stunning landscapes and historic vineyards.
The original route once took visitors to a spa resort in Calistoga, helping to establish Napa’s tourism industry. Today, the Wine Train offers a 36-mile round trip, departing from the station near Downtown Napa at Oxbow Commons, traveling to St. Helena and back, with stops at renowned Napa Valley wineries. With each journey, the Wine Train preserves a piece of Napa Valley’s history, continuing the railroading traditions that once shaped the American landscape.
Oxbow Public Market
THE LOCAL GATHERING PLACE FOR GREAT FOOD AND WINE
Spanning 40,000 square feet, Oxbow Public Market includes a scenic outdoor deck with seating overlooking the Napa River. It hosts a diverse range of vendors, including local food stalls, artisan cafes, and an organic produce market that supports nearby farms.
The market and its artisans are deeply committed to sustainable agriculture and the local harvest, championing a healthy environment and fostering social and economic equity within the community.
610 & 644 First Street
Napa, California 94559
(707) 226-6529
First Street Napa is a destination for both relaxation and innovation, offering a curated blend of exceptional wines, unique dining options, and stylish retail and lifestyle experiences. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s a space that honors Napa’s rich history while being thoughtfully updated and reimagined for modern tastes.
1300 First Street, Napa, CA 94559
Artisan Chocolates, Truffles, Brittles and Dessert Sauces
Founded in 1991, our passion for chocolate has fueled decades of indulgent creations. Family-owned and operated for over 31 years, we continue to craft treats with care and dedication.
1321 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
(707) 252-4228
Archer Napa
Downtown Napa is currently experiencing an exciting renaissance, with incredible tasting rooms (55 and counting), a variety of shops, and an array of amazing dining options. All within a pleasant, stress-free walk from their uniquely stylish boutique hotel. Choose from intimate rooms or suites with balconies offering views of the lively scene below. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Charlie Palmer Steak, or unwind under the stars at Napa Valley’s favorite rooftop spot, Sky & Vine, complete with its Whiskey Bar enclave. For ultimate relaxation, indulge in their rejuvenating day spa. So much to savor, all in one place.
Napa Valley Lodging…
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Auberge du Soleil
Rutherford, California
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Bardessono Hotel & Spa
Yountville, California
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Four Seasons Resort
Calistoga, California
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Alila Napa Valley
St Helena, California,
Wine & Dine
With over 500 wineries producing some of the world’s finest wines, Napa Valley can be overwhelming to navigate. From sun-drenched vineyards to a rich winemaking heritage, there’s so much to discover in this expansive region. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned Napa regular, the best way to experience the valley is by getting recommendations directly from the local wine experts. Visit Wine Enthusiast
1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay
“I realized that you don’t make wine only with your head and your senses. You make wine with your heart.”
~ Miljenko "Mike" Grgich ~
1923-2023
Miljenko "Mike" Grgich first gained global acclaim at the famous "Paris Tasting" of 1976. During this historic blind tasting, a panel of esteemed French judges sampled a selection of renowned white Burgundies alongside a few up-and-coming Chardonnays from Napa Valley. When the scores were tallied, the judges were astounded to find that they had chosen the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, crafted by Mike Grgich, as the finest white wine in the world. Mon Dieu! The results shocked the international wine community and instantly cemented Mike's reputation as one of the world’s greatest winemakers.
Mayacamas
Founded in 1889, Mayacamas is one of Napa Valley's most historic vineyards and wineries. Since the 1950s, the production of Mayacamas wines has remained impressively consistent, with a steadfast dedication to using traditional winemaking techniques.
Since founding Kenzo Estate winery, they have long dreamed of offering an authentic, elegant Japanese dining experience in Napa Valley. Their vision was to craft a truly transformative experience where the people, place, and flavors come together to create a unique moment in time. They invite you to discover Kenzo Napa, their signature restaurant in downtown Napa, where exquisite Kaiseki dishes are prepared using ingredients flown in daily from Japan. Each meticulously crafted course is designed to pair perfectly with a curated selection of wines and sakes from around the world, including Kenzo Estate's complete Napa Valley wine collection.
1339 PEARL STREET
NAPA, CALIFORNIA 94559
707.294.2049
IIn the early 1980s, while hiking along Oakville's southwestern ridge, H. William Harlan stumbled upon a secluded territory. The hidden expanse—ancient and untamed—left a profound impression on him, but it remained elusive until the Harlan family finally acquired it in 2008. As the second generation explored and worked with the land, they began to uncover its secrets. At the heart of this wild terrain, they discovered a powerful geologic convergence that had shaped its steep, rugged landscape and created the ideal conditions for an extraordinary winegrowing environment. Over time, they realized that this dramatic landscape—just beyond the edge of the known—would not only transform them but also inspire a new venture: Promontory.
In 1965, Jack and Jamie Davies, founders of Schramsberg, sought a simpler, more meaningful life. After a yearlong search, they found a dilapidated winery perched on a mountainside above St. Helena. The 19th-century Victorian mansion stood over neglected gardens and forgotten underground cellars. Though the historic Schramsberg property had been abandoned for years, the Davies were eager for a challenge. On that day, they decided to breathe new life into Schramsberg.
Their ambition was to craft wine—not just any wine, but world-class sparkling wine. It was a bold vision. Later that year, the 1965 Blanc de Blancs was born, marking the first commercial use of Chardonnay in American sparkling wine.
FINE DINING WITHOUT THE PRETENSE
La Toque is a chef-driven Napa Valley restaurant that celebrates the seasonal, the authentic, and the utterly delicious. For over 40 years, Chef Ken Frank has infused his passion for food and wine into creating an elevated wine country experience—one that remains unpretentious and welcoming. Many guests, both locals and visitors from around the world, return year after year to La Toque for their special occasion meals.
A long-time recipient of the Wine Spectator Grand Award—the highest honor for restaurant wine programs—La Toque’s culinary team and sommeliers taste together daily, discovering exciting new pairings that enhance and elevate the quintessential Napa Valley experience.
1314 McKinstry Street
Napa, CA 94559
707-257-5157
In 2006, Robin and Michelle Baggett moved to Napa Valley to establish Alpha Omega. Robin’s wine journey began in 1988 as a grape grower, planting over 750 acres of grapes and founding Tolosa Winery in San Luis Obispo in 1998. Meanwhile, in the late '80s, Michelle embarked on a multifaceted career in developing hospitality brands. Together, they created the name, brand, and vision for Alpha Omega, a venture that would combine their shared passion for wine and hospitality.
The dream of AXR began with four friends gathered around a table, sharing stories, dreaming, laughing, and occasionally sipping! The room was filled with a deep passion for wine and a shared commitment to staying true to themselves and the rich history of Napa Valley. It was in this space that AXR was born. By blending modern, innovative techniques with the unique character of Napa Valley’s soils, they craft wines that are enjoyable now or can be savored for years to come.
The "Fab4," as they call themselves, consists of the three founders—Kelly Trevethan, Mark Schratz, and Don Van Laeken—and their winemaker, Jean Hoefliger. This group of humble romantics honors the pioneers who planted the vines and shaped the Napa Valley lifestyle. Their team is excited to connect with new people, share a joke or two, and offer great wine in the process!
RUTHERFORD
For many, the name Auberge du Soleil is synonymous with wine country cuisine. Founded in 1981 by visionary French restaurateur Claude Rouas as Napa Valley’s first fine-dining restaurant, The Restaurant has upheld its reputation as a must-visit culinary destination for over 40 years. Executive Chef Robert Curry sources the freshest ingredients from local purveyors, selecting them at the peak of their flavor to create dishes that highlight the region's finest seasonal offerings.
With 16 consecutive Michelin Star awards, The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil continues to provide a feast for both the eyes and the senses. Whether enjoying breathtaking views on the outdoor terrace or dining in the cozy, intimate interior, the fine dining experience is perfectly complemented by the ambiance and the hotel’s renowned wine cellar, which boasts an impressive 15,000 bottles.
Auberge du Soleil
Over 25 years ago, Spain’s oldest winemaking family, Raventós Codorníu, set out for a new adventure in Napa Valley. They discovered a sea-facing hillside in Los Carneros, with rocky soils and a favorable coastal climate—ideal for winemaking.
Here, they planted new roots, building on a 460-year legacy of craftsmanship to create a new generation of estate-grown, artisan wines. In 1991, they launched Codorníu Napa with a mission to produce California’s finest sparkling wine. As the vineyard demonstrated its potential for still wines, the Artesa name was introduced in 1998. Meaning "handcrafted" in Catalan, Artesa has since become a leading producer of distinctive wines from the varietals that thrive in Los Carneros and Napa Valley, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
“At Trefethen, everything is connected. I mean this in both an ecological and a social sense. The land we farm is part of a larger ecosystem that we affect. And the way we approach our work, the mindset we have, ripples out to affect how we treat our employees, receive visitors, and carry ourselves in our community.”
– Lorenzo Trefethen –
Opus One
Opus One is the fulfillment of a dream shared by two visionaries: Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux and Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. United by a passion for excellence, they set out to craft a single wine focused solely on uncompromising quality. This shared mission continues to guide every vintage, shaping Opus One’s legacy today and for generations to come.
Quintessa is a 280-acre estate that showcases a remarkable diversity of geology, biodiversity, exposures, and microclimates. Inspired by the uniqueness of this land, founders Agustin and Valeria Huneeus believed it was destined to become one of the world’s great wine estates. Today, 160 acres are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carménère, spread across 26 vineyard blocks. Each block is farmed organically and Biodynamic®, harvested, and vinified individually to preserve and highlight the distinct qualities of the land. Driven by the land’s natural beauty, the Huneeus family has dedicated themselves to capturing its harmony in the form of exceptional wine.
GAVEL: A vibrant coffee shop offering Chef Harry's freshly baked pastries and specialty roasts from Sightglass Coffee. Explore a curated selection of retail and craft goods from talented Bay Area artisans, along with picnic items perfect for an afternoon in the vineyard.
Since the summer of 2020, they’ve been serving up delicious deli sandwiches and salads. While much has changed over the years, their commitment to providing the community with fresh, tasty food has only grown stronger. They take pride in using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Their market features gourmet snacks, local cheeses, wine, and craft beer. With a mix of familiar favorites and exciting new items, their inventory is always evolving, offering the latest and most noteworthy culinary delights.
1331 First St. | Napa, Ca 94559
(707)-252-1000
They bake in small batches by hand every day, using the finest ingredients sourced from local, sustainable, and, whenever possible, organic producers. They take pride in offering cupcakes and cakes that are freshly baked within hours, if not minutes, for your enjoyment.
Their menu features trusted signature flavors alongside seasonal and monthly favorites, all made fresh daily with real, local ingredients. They are committed to inclusivity, offering gluten-free and vegan cupcake options to accommodate special dietary needs.
610 1st St | #19 Oxbow Public Market | Napa, CA 94559
(707) 258-2253
Marketplace at Copia
The Marketplace at Copia features a curated selection of rare and exquisite household goods, carefully chosen to enhance the beauty of your home and kitchen.
Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company opened its doors in 1985, becoming one of the first local coffee roasters in the Napa Valley. Inspired by European cafes, it was housed in a historic Victorian building. In 1991, they expanded with a second location in downtown St. Helena. From the start, they’ve been crafting signature coffee blends for some of Napa Valley’s most renowned restaurants and wineries, as well as businesses beyond the region.
710 Main Street , Napa, CA
707-224-2233
CHUCK WILLIAMS CULINARY ARTS MUSEUM
Step into the Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum and journey back to a time when the great chefs of Europe crafted beautiful and functional items for their culinary creations. Delight in whimsical tureens shaped like boar’s heads, rabbits, and lambs, while marveling at curiosities like the duck press, showcasing the ingenuity of chefs from centuries past. With over 4,000 artifacts, including specialty cookware, bread-baking tools, culinary appliances, and tableware, the museum offers rotating exhibits that will both intrigue and fascinate you.
500 1st Street, Napa, CA 94559
707-967-2500
Art Association Napa Valley | 1520 Behrens Street | Napa, California | 707.254.2085
Main Distillery & The Grand Tasting Salon
Their Grand Tasting Salon is located inside the Main Distillery, just off Highway 29 in Napa, CA. Enjoy an Educational Distillery Tour and sample a flight of their award-winning, locally crafted spirits. You’ll also discover how to properly taste distilled spirits using the unique "Booze Yoga" method—an exclusive experience at this Napa Valley distillery—while relaxing in their beautiful Grand Tasting Salon.
2485 Stockton Street, Napa, CA 94559
(707) 226-9269
Uptown Theatre, Napa
The Uptown Theatre Napa is downtown's premier destination for live entertainment. Located in the renowned West End district, this beautifully restored 1937 art deco gem hosts only the finest performances in music and comedy. As a historic landmark, the Uptown provides an exceptional, intimate experience with world-class sound and sightlines. With just 98 feet between the last row and the stage, every seat offers a fantastic view, making it a truly remarkable venue for live shows.
1350 Third Street Napa, California 94559
(707) 259-0123
