Napa Valley is known around the world for its exceptional wines, beautiful vineyards and elevated culinary scene, but there is much more to discover beyond the tasting room. From scenic hot-air balloon rides and historic train journeys to farm-to-table dining, outdoor adventures, art, shopping and relaxing spa experiences, there are plenty of things to do in Napa for every type of traveler.

Whether you're planning a romantic Napa Valley getaway, a weekend in Wine Country or your first visit to Northern California, this guide highlights some of the best things to do in Napa Valley and how to make the most of your time in the region.

What Is Napa Valley Best Known For?

Napa Valley is best known for its world-class wineries, Cabernet Sauvignon, picturesque vineyards and exceptional food and wine experiences. But the region has evolved into a destination that offers far more than wine tasting.

Visitors can explore charming Napa Valley towns, dine at acclaimed restaurants, enjoy outdoor recreation, visit galleries and cultural attractions, relax at destination spas and experience the valley from above on a hot-air balloon ride.

With hundreds of wineries and tasting rooms throughout Napa Valley, wine remains at the heart of the destination, but travelers can easily build a Napa itinerary around their individual interests.

1. Go Wine Tasting at Napa Valley Wineries

No Napa Valley trip is complete without experiencing the region's renowned wine country. With hundreds of wineries and tasting rooms throughout the valley, visitors can choose from intimate family-owned estates, historic properties, vineyard experiences, and highly curated wine tastings.

Cabernet Sauvignon is particularly synonymous with Napa Valley, but you'll also find Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Merlot and other varietals throughout the region.

For first-time visitors, consider planning a few thoughtfully selected winery visits rather than trying to fit too many tastings into one day. Many wineries operate by appointment, so reservations are recommended when planning your Napa Valley itinerary.

2. Explore Downtown Napa

Downtown Napa offers a different perspective on Wine Country. Located along the Napa River, the city's revitalized downtown is filled with restaurants, tasting rooms, boutiques, galleries and walkable riverfront spaces.

Spend an afternoon strolling along the river, browsing local shops and galleries, or stopping into a tasting room before dinner.

For food lovers, Oxbow Public Market is an especially popular stop. The lively marketplace brings together restaurants, specialty food vendors and local products, making it an easy place to sample several flavors of Napa in one visit.

3. Ride the Napa Valley Wine Train

For a memorable way to experience Napa Valley, climb aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train.

The historic rail experience combines a scenic journey through Wine Country with multi-course dining and optional wine experiences. It's particularly popular for celebrations, romantic getaways and travelers looking for something beyond a traditional winery visit.

Napa Valley Wine Train offers a unique way to see the valley while enjoying an experience that combines Napa's history, scenery, cuisine and wine culture.

4. Take a Hot-Air Balloon Ride Over Napa Valley

For one of the most unforgettable things to do in Napa Valley, take to the sky.

Hot-air balloon rides typically take place in the early morning, offering panoramic views of vineyards, mountains and the valley floor. The experience provides an entirely different perspective of Napa's landscape and is especially popular with couples celebrating an anniversary, honeymoon or romantic getaway.

If you're looking for romantic things to do in Napa, a sunrise balloon ride is an experience worth adding to your itinerary. Visit Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides to plan your memorable experience and adventure.

5. Enjoy Napa Valley's Culinary Scene

Wine may get much of the attention, but Napa Valley is also one of California's premier culinary destinations.

From casual farm-to-table restaurants and bustling markets to acclaimed fine dining, food is an essential part of the Napa experience. Visit Napa Valley highlights the region's farm-to-table cuisine and its concentration of acclaimed restaurants as major draws for travelers.

Plan at least one memorable meal during your trip, and look for restaurants that showcase seasonal Napa Valley ingredients and wines from local producers.

For a quintessential Wine Country experience, consider pairing a winery visit with lunch or dinner rather than treating dining as an afterthought. Explore local restaurants with Visit Napa Valley.

6. Relax at a Napa Valley Spa

Sometimes the best thing to do in Napa is absolutely nothing.

Napa Valley is home to destination spas and wellness experiences inspired by the region's natural landscape, including treatments incorporating geothermal springs, mineral-rich mud and locally inspired ingredients.

Add a massage, facial, body treatment or wellness experience to your Napa itinerary for a relaxing counterpoint to a day of wine tasting.

For guests staying at The Meritage Resort and Spa, a spa day at Spa Terra can be especially easy to incorporate into a Wine Country getaway. The resort's spa experience provides an opportunity to slow down and recharge without leaving the property.

7. Get Outdoors in Napa Valley

Napa Valley's rolling hills and scenic landscapes make it an excellent destination for outdoor activities.

Hiking trails, biking routes, parks and waterways offer opportunities to experience a quieter side of Wine Country. Visitors can hike through areas such as Bothe-Napa Valley State Park and Robert Louis Stevenson State Park or explore the Napa Valley Vine Trail by bike.

For something on the water, kayaking, paddleboarding and boating are also available in the Napa River and at nearby Lake Berryessa.

Looking for things to do in Napa besides wine tasting? Outdoor activities are an easy way to fill a morning or afternoon between culinary and winery experiences.

8. Discover Napa Valley's Art and Culture

Napa's creative side is another reason to spend more than a day in the valley.

Explore galleries, museums, performing arts venues and public art throughout the region. The valley's arts and culture scene ranges from contemporary art and sculpture to historic theaters and cultural institutions.

Art lovers can also visit the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, which features an extensive collection of contemporary works in a scenic Napa Valley setting. It is frequently highlighted among the region's cultural attractions.

9. Shop Local in Napa Valley

Leave a little room in your suitcase.

Napa Valley's towns offer everything from locally made food and wine products to art, jewelry, fashion, home goods and specialty items. Downtown Napa is particularly easy to explore on foot, while towns throughout the valley offer their own collection of boutiques and galleries.

Shopping can also be a great way to break up a day of wine tasting or find a meaningful Napa Valley souvenir to take home.

10. Explore Napa Valley's Charming Towns

One of the best ways to experience Napa Valley is to explore beyond the city of Napa.

The valley stretches through several distinct communities, each with its own personality. Spend time exploring Yountville, St. Helena, Calistoga and Napa itself to experience different sides of Wine Country.

Yountville is known for its restaurants and boutique atmosphere, St. Helena offers historic charm and shopping, while Calistoga is celebrated for its hot springs and wellness experiences.

Rather than trying to see everything in one day, choose a few areas to explore and give yourself time to enjoy them.

11. Experience Napa's Hot Springs and Wellness Culture

Looking for a relaxing addition to your Napa Valley vacation? Head north to Calistoga, where natural geothermal springs and mineral-rich mud have helped establish the town as a destination for wellness and relaxation.

A soak or spa treatment can be the perfect way to unwind after a day spent exploring vineyards.

12. Plan a Scenic Drive Through Wine Country

Sometimes the journey is part of the experience.

Take a leisurely drive through Napa Valley along vineyard-lined roads, stopping at wineries, restaurants, viewpoints and small towns along the way. Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail offer two distinct routes through the valley, with opportunities to explore different wineries and landscapes.

If you're planning to enjoy wine tastings, consider hiring a professional driver or booking a guided wine tour so everyone can enjoy the experience responsibly.

How Many Days Do You Need in Napa?

For a first visit, three days in Napa Valley is a great starting point. A long weekend gives you enough time to experience a few wineries while also exploring downtown Napa, enjoying a memorable meal, spending time outdoors and relaxing at a spa.

With four or more days, you can explore farther into the valley and visit additional towns such as Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga.

The key is not to overpack your itinerary. Napa is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

Where to Stay in Napa Valley

Choosing where to stay can make a significant difference in your Napa Valley experience.

For travelers looking for a resort getaway with convenient access to Wine Country, The Meritage Resort and Spa offers a Napa Valley escape where guests can combine vineyard experiences with resort amenities, dining and wellness.

Located in the southern Napa Valley, the resort provides a relaxing home base for exploring Napa's wineries, restaurants, outdoor activities and nearby attractions.

After a day exploring Wine Country, return to the resort to unwind, enjoy a meal, relax at the spa or simply take in the surrounding Napa Valley landscape.

Make the Most of Your Napa Valley Getaway

From world-class wine tasting and farm-to-table dining to scenic adventures, spa days and charming Wine Country towns, there are countless things to do in Napa Valley. Start planning your next trip and add these must-dos to your list!