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Best things to do in Napa & Sonoma California
If you haven’t been to Wine Country yet, this is your sign to add it to your bucket list ASAP! We’ve been twice now (the second visit of many, I’m sure), and it truly is the perfect place to escape reality and wine down. Our first visit was back in 2017, and we mostly stayed in Napa. However, this time, we had the opportunity to explore Sonoma and absolutely loved its laid-back vibe and unique charm.
Wine Country, also known as the renowned wine-growing region in Northern California, is a magical place (I’m not lying) where every bottle uncorks a new adventure. From its exquisite vineyards and rich viticultural heritage to its world-class restaurants and luxury resorts, there’s something for everyone. It’s no wonder it’s the largest producer of American wine and boasts over 800 wineries, the most in the country!
With over 100 different grape varietals cultivated in California, there’s always a new wine to discover. Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon may be the most popular, but the beauty of Wine Country is the opportunity to try something new. I’ve had the pleasure of tasting wines I wouldn’t normally buy, and it’s been a delightful surprise every time!
Now that you know a little bit about Wine Country, let’s talk through some of the best things to do in Napa & Sonoma, even if wine tasting isn’t your thing. Keep scrolling for some of the best wineries in Napa and Sonoma, some of my favorite places in Downtown Napa, restaurants in Napa you won’t want to miss, and so much more!
Best things to do in Sonoma
Best wineries in Sonoma Valley
Let’s kick this off with what Sonoma is most known for, wine tasting! Now, there are over 400 different wineries in Sonoma California, so as you can imagine, it can be a little overwhelming to decide which ones to go to. This is where I come in! Here are a couple of the best wineries in Sonoma County that we’ve been to so far.
If you’re interested in Champagne, J Vineyards is one of the best wineries to visit in Sonoma. It’s located a few miles from Downtown Healdsburg and offers a variety of wine experiences, from food-and-wine pairings to signature wine tastings. We opted for the sparkling flight with an artisan cheese pairing, and it was to die for! Click here to book your wine-tasting experience.
If you’re looking for a great place to grab brunch (and wine, of course), you can’t go wrong with Ferrari Carano. Between the beautiful estate, picturesque views, and delectable menu, I truly felt like I was transported right to Italy as soon as we sat down. This experience, available on Sunday only, is $95 per person and includes a flight of wine, an entree, and a dessert. Click here to book today.
If you’re on the hunt for family friendly wineries in Sonoma, Larson Family Winery is the place to go! They have a huge patio filled with lots of seating, tons of games, and plenty of room for the kiddos to run around. Plus, they have lots of events going on throughout the year, including an adorable pumpkin patch in the Fall that you don’t want to miss. Did I also mention that it’s one of the best dog friendly wineries in Sonoma?
If you’re looking for the best wineries in Sonoma CA to savor a glass of wine with a stunning view, look no further than Paradise Ridge! While they offer daily wine tastings from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., I highly recommend making a reservation for their “Wine & Sunset” event, held every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m instead. During this special event, you can enjoy live music, food from a local food truck, and a selection of handcrafted wines available for purchase. Plus, you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views in town!
Interested in hiring a private driver for the day? Click here for more info!
Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley
This was such a fun way to kick off our first visit to Sonoma! The Sonoma Valley wine trolley, modeled after a San Francisco cable car, is a six-hour tour that stops at some of the top wineries in Sonoma for wine tastings. Along the way, you’ll also get to see some spectacular views of vineyards and many historic landmarks of Wine Country.
On our tour, we stopped at B.R. Cohn (my favorite of the day), VJB cellars for a tasting and lunch, and then ended the day at Mayo. This was a great way to learn a little bit about Sonoma, taste some delicious wine, and soak in the beautiful Napa weather. I would highly recommend it if this is your first trip to Wine Country!
If you’re considering this tour, it departs conveniently from Downtown Sonoma. The tickets, priced at $125 per person, include a delicious lunch. However, tastings at each winery are not included. If you’re looking for a great way to have a hassle-free wine experience, this tour is for you!
Click here to book >> Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley
St Francis Pedal Trolley
If you’re headed to Wine Country for a bachelorette party or if you’re just traveling with a group of people, the St Francis Pedal Trolley Vineyard Tour is a MUST! The day we went on the vineyard trolley tour, I was actually SO hungover that I almost didn’t go (haha). However, I pushed myself to rally, and we ended up having the best time! Sometimes a little hair of the dog is all you need hehe.
Tour de St. Francis is a truly unique wine-tasting experience on a sustainable, pedal-powered trolley that allows you to learn a little about viticulture, sip some delicious wines, and get in some exercise while seeing some amazing views along the way. If you’re interested in going, tickets are $60 per person, and the trolley accommodates up to 15 guests. Make sure to stop at the Sonoma Valley welcome sign for a photo opp during your journey!
Click here to book >> St Francis Pedal Trolley
Explore Downtown Sonoma
In addition to all of the great wineries that Sonoma has to offer, Downtown Sonoma has so many good restaurants, tasting rooms, and cute shops to explore. There are also so many events throughout the year, from night markets and fall festivals to holiday events and concerts, and so much more! Click here to browse annual events in Sonoma County.
If you’re looking for some good Sonoma restaurants, make sure to check out The Sausauge Emporium and Basque Boulangerie Cafe for breakfast, Mary’s Pizza Shack for lunch, and The Girl and the Fig or Della’s Santina for dinner. The Sonoma Market is also a great grocery store with quite the charcuterie section if you feel like staying in one night!
Sonoma Overlook Trail
If you’re looking for activities in Sonoma besides wine tasting, I highly recommend hiking the Sonoma Overlook Trail. This well-maintained trail offers stunning views of the Sonoma Valley, surrounding vineyards, and sometimes even glimpses of the San Francisco Bay on clear days.
This 3-mile trail is known for its accessibility and relatively easy terrain, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels, including families and casual walkers. It’s also relatively close to the Sonoma Plaza, making it convenient for visitors exploring the area. It’s a great spot to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying panoramic views of the beautiful Sonoma countryside.
Spend the afternoon at Cornerstone Sonoma
If you’re looking for the perfect place to immerse yourself in the best of Sonoma’s culture, Cornerstone Sonoma is the place to do it! This one-of-a-kind marketplace is home to a variety of unique shops and galleries filled with curated home goods and artisan crafts, as well as a wine-tasting room featuring superb red, white, and sparkling wines from Meadowcroft wines.
Additionally, one of Cornerstone Sonoma’s standout features is its stunning gardens, designed with creative installations and ever-changing displays of seasonal blooms, sculptures, and unique structures. This is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon stroll, grab some Instagram-worthy photos, and soak up the beautiful Sonoma weather!
Take a day trip to Petaluma
Only a short 30-minute drive from Downtown Sonoma is Petaluma, a charming, historic town offering a delightful mix of preserved Victorian architecture, a variety of boutique shops and antique stores, and many locally owned cafes. The town also provides easy access to outdoor activities like kayaking on the Petaluma River or exploring nearby hiking trails.
One of Petaluma’s biggest draws is also its incredible food scene, which celebrates the region’s farm-to-table ethos. From artisanal bakeries to award-winning restaurants, you’ll find plenty of delicious options highlighting fresh, local ingredients. Plus, the area has quite a few wineries and tasting rooms showcasing the region’s exceptional terroir.
For beer lovers, Petaluma is also home to Lagunitas Brewing Company, where you can enjoy craft beer in a lively, laid-back setting. We also really loved Brewsters Beer Garden, an open-air beer garden with modern BBQ and 30 revolving local craft beers on draft. I’m still dreaming about their burnt ends and mac n cheese, an elite combo!
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Best things to do in Napa Valley
Stroll through Downtown Napa
If you’re planning a trip to California’s wine country, be sure to include a visit to downtown Napa. This charming area has everything you need for a perfect day of exploring, from boutique shopping to incredible dining. Whether you’re craving a farm-to-table meal or just want to grab a quick bite at a local café, downtown Napa has a spot to satisfy every craving.
One of the best things about downtown Napa is how walkable it is. You can easily spend an entire day wandering from one spot to another. The historic architecture adds to the charm, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard-perfect small town. And, if you’re looking for a break from the vineyards, downtown Napa is packed with tons of tasting rooms, so you can sample some of the region’s best wines without even leaving town.
Oxbow Public Market
Oxbow Public Market is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and vibrant culinary experience. This bustling marketplace is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse selection of locally sourced produce, artisanal foods, and gourmet products. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh oysters, handcrafted cheeses, or an expertly brewed cup of coffee, Oxbow Public Market has something to satisfy every palate.
Beyond its culinary delights, Oxbow Public Market provides a lively atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Napa Valley. The market is home to a variety of eateries and shops, each with its own unique charm and specialties. Additionally, the market frequently hosts events such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and live music, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and community.
Napa Valley Wine Train
Although I haven’t had the opportunity to ride the Napa Valley Wine Train yet, this is an absolute must if you’re visiting Napa! This historic train offers a unique way to explore the stunning landscape of Napa Valley while indulging in world-class cuisine and fine wines. As you travel through the heart of wine country, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of rolling vineyards, charming wineries, and picturesque estates, all from the comfort of a beautifully restored vintage train.
Depending on the experience you choose, you’ll enjoy a multi-course meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients, expertly paired with some of the finest wines Napa Valley has to offer. The wine train Napa features different dining cars, each meticulously restored to reflect the opulence of early 20th-century rail travel, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and luxurious. Throughout your journey, you’ll also learn about the region’s winemaking history and the stories behind the vineyards you pass.
Click here to book >> Napa Wine Train
Napa Valley Wine Trolley
If you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Napa Valley for a group (especially a bachelorette party), the Napa Valley Wine Trolley is it! Modeled after a historic San Francisco cable car, this open-air, vintage-style trolley is a great way to explore the renowned vineyards and wineries of Napa Valley. This tour offers a fun and relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to fully appreciate the scenic landscapes while learning about wine and traveling between some of the best wineries in the area.
If you’re interested in this tour, pickup and drop-off are at Oxbow Public Market. In addition to a guided tour, lunch and reservations at three or four family-run wineries or tasting rooms are included. However, wine-tasting fees are not included, so make sure to factor in an additional $30 for each winery to the overall price.
Click here to book >> Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour
Napa Valley Vine Trail
Exploring the Napa Valley Vine Trail is a must for anyone visiting Napa, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience of this world-famous wine region. The trail weaves through a stunning landscape of rolling vineyards and picturesque wineries, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the winemaking process, taste exquisite wines, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local vintners.
Whether you choose to walk, bike, or drive, the Vine Trail Napa Valley offers the flexibility to set your own pace and tailor your journey to suit your preferences. I personally recommend renting e-bikes, as it’s the best way to fully immerse yourself in the stunning vineyard vistas and explore charming towns along the route, all while enjoying a bit of exercise in a leisurely and enjoyable way.
Click here to download the Napa Valley Vine Trail map!
Click here to book >> Full day e-bike rental
Explore Yountville
If you’re looking to experience the epitome of culinary excellence and charming small-town ambiance on your trip to Wine Country, a day trip to Yountville needs to be added to your travel itinerary! Yountville is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including the world-renowned The French Laundry, as well as a variety of delightful eateries, cozy cafes, and gourmet food shops, making it a paradise for food lovers.
Yountville is also adorned with art galleries, boutiques, and beautifully manicured gardens, providing a quaint and welcoming atmosphere. If you’re planning on visiting, make sure to stop by Bouchon Bakery for a sweet treat. The line may be a little long to get in, but I promise it’s worth it! I also recommend booking the bacon & wine experience at Priest Ranch tasting room. It’s truly a unique wine tasting experience you won’t find anywhere else!
Check out the Napa Farmers Market
The Napa Farmers Market is a must-visit if you find yourself in the area! Held twice a week, this vibrant market is a hub for the community, bringing together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. You’ll find everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to fresh flowers and handmade crafts. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it the perfect spot to spend a morning discovering the best of what Napa has to offer.
What sets the farmers market in Napa apart is its commitment to sustainability and supporting local agriculture. Many of the vendors practice organic farming, and there’s a strong emphasis on farm-to-table living. Plus, with live music, cooking demonstrations, and activities for kids, it’s one of the best Napa Valley things to do that’s fun for the whole family!
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